Chapter 1:
"Yeah Mum, it's me." As Jess's eyes glazed over, sighing deeply but grinning while looking out of the view point at Earth. "Mum, listen…Mum please…. Mum…MUM! Let me explain."
Crais could hear a woman sopping from the device Jess held to her ear. As Jess continued to communicate to her mother, he slipped out quietly to give her some privacy. He headed towards the galley to check their supplies. Scratching the back of his head when he realised their supplies were low. He sighed and turned to head back to command. As he walked in, Jess was still communicating with her mother.
"No Mum, I can't come home… Covid? Huh? What the hell is Covid?"
Crais stood at Jess's side, whispering "Jess."
Jess looked over to Crais she saw the concerned look on his face. "Mum, hang on a sec…No Mum I'm not going anywhere, just give me a moment." Holding the phone down towards her chest. Worryingly looking at Crais, quietly she questioned "everything ok?"
"Our supplies are extremely low. They won't last more than a weeken with strict rationing."
"Dam," Looking around, trying to think of what to do. Looking back at Crais before putting the phone back to her ear and walking towards the view point. "Mum, I'm gonna have to call you back."
Crais could hear the other woman start to cry again, begging Jess not to go.
"No Mum, I promise…Mum I'm going to phone back, I promise. Please trust me Mum, I just need to try and figure something out, don't say anything to anyone yet...I love you too." As Jess ended the call and sighed looking over towards Crais "what do you suggest?"
Crais stepped up towards Jess, placing a hand on her shoulder gently stroking the top of it with his thumb as he smiled at her "well, I presume there is relevant supplies down there." Tilting his head towards the viewpoint.
Jess snorted, half shaking her head "and how do you propose we make it down there without being detected? According to everyone down there you don't exist!" Tilting her head, "well, there's some that believe…but there's never been any concrete evidence of extra-terrestrial life."
Crais smirked as she continued to rant, Jess turned and walked towards the view point once more. "I mean, what if we were caught and they lock you up, or worse, dissect you. Then what? I won't be able to get back to help Talyn and he'll be alone, I'll be dumped in some looney bin." As she looked up at Crais she ceased her rambling when she noticed him smirking at her with a glint in his eyes. "What's that smirk for? This isn't funny Crais, it could have serious consequences!"
Crais grinned even more, "I think it would be quite easy to go undetected." As Jess raised her eyebrows questioningly in shock. "Your systems are somewhat primitive" As Jess continued to glare at him. "Talyn and I have already infiltrated some of your organisations."
Jess opened her mouth in shock, frowning at him "what? You've hacked into systems? How?"
Crais smirked again raising his eyebrows "as I said, Earth's security systems are extremely primitive."
Feeling defensive towards Crais's criticism of Earth's technology she folded her arms across her chest "yeah, well you may have the better technology, but you don't have chocolate!"
Remembering that was some sort of food Jess had offered to him previously, Crais stepped up to Jess placing his hands on her hips, pulling her close to him as he nuzzled into her neck "and you can get more chocolate supplies when we're there." Kissing her jawline, tracing back to her lips.
Jess gently pushed him away, placing her hands on his chest, shaking her head. "Bialar, this is serious. You're always so meticulous! I don't know why you're being so blasé about this." Looking up at him, his face calm and collected as he stroked a strand of hair off her face, behind her ear leaving his hand cupping her cheek.
"I'm not concerned about being detected." Jess frowned in response. Replying to her frown "it's not about being detected, of course that would be problematic. Just, I'm fairly certain we won't be."
Shrugging "ok, you're planning stealth mode to get us down there. How do you propose we hide the pod while we gather supplies?"
Smiling, "we don't need to." Jess frowned once more. "Set the pod to autopilot back to Talyn until we're ready to return."
"But what about."
Crais quickly interrupted "Jess, what is wrong? Why are you so hesitant to return? This is your home!"
"I told you before, this is my home now."
Crais sighed and smiled "That being said, we desperately need supplies. There is no telling how long it will take us to get back and when we will encounter another inhabited planet."
Jess turned to face the viewpoint again, placing a hand on her hip, the other running over the top of her head stopping at the back where she scratched the base in thought. Exhaling a half laugh, she turned again to face Crais. "I came to terms with the fact I'd never return home a long time ago, but now I'm here…I." Crais' face softened. Jess inhaled deeply, biting her lip, her eyes glazing over. "I don't know." Shrugging "what if we can't get back, what if Talyn is alone…. or what if I…" her voice cracking "change my mind."
Crais tilted his head and licked his lips "well that would be your choice. I'll respect whatever you decide." His face still calm, not giving Jess any clues as to what he was thinking.
Folding her arms across her chest, tilting her chin up, silently challenging him "would you prefer I stayed on Earth?"
"That's not my decision Jess."
"What if it was? What would you prefer me to do?"
Shaking his head "the choice is yours!"
"And what if it wasn't? Do you want me to stay with you?" Crais shook his head, not quite fathoming why Jess was acting like this and trying to pass the responsibility of such a significant decision of hers onto him. Raising her voice "answer the question!"
Before she could finish Crais interrupted "No!"
Jess stood in shocked silence, a single tear escaping from her eye. As it rolled down her cheek, she rubbed it away with the heal of her palm. "Right." Snorting, looking up at the ceiling trying to stifle any more tears, shaking her head and smiling to herself "of course not…God I'm such an idiot!"
"Jess?"
Seemingly not hearing his questioning or paying any attention to the confusion sketched across his face, Jess continued to rant. "Of course, you wouldn't want me to stay with you, I was just a convenience for you, just a little tralk to relieve some tension. Hell, you only kissed me because you thought that was what us humans did to make up after an argument."
"Jess?"
"And what?" Raising her hands up questioningly, letting them fall down onto her thighs. "You only recreated with me following Crichton's death for some comfort?"
Crais raised his voice "Jess?" but not enough to stop her outburst.
Pacing "only said you loved me back because, hell, it didn't matter, you weren't coming back, wouldn't have to see me again. I bet it was a right bummer for you when I rocked up on the Command Carrier!"
"JESS!" Grabbing her shoulders forcing her to stop and look at him, grief in both of their eyes. "Do you honestly believe this?" Jess swallowed, more tears escaping, streaming down her face. "What's wrong with you?"
"What's wrong with me!? You've just said you don't want me to go with you." As she shrugged free from his grip "I can't believe I was so stupid to think this was something real." As she turned to walk away Crais grabbed her wrist, stopping her. "Get off me!"
Trying to twist her arm free Crais tightened his grip "Jess, I didn't say I didn't want you to come with me."
"You said no!"
Smiling and shaking his head "I said no to answering the question. Not that I didn't want you to come with me."
Jess looked up; mouth open in shock, feeling slightly embarrassed by her irrational outburst.
Crais cupped her cheek, stroking it with his thumb "I will respect whatever decision you make. I don't want to pressure you or sway your conclusion with what I want."
Jess tilted her head into his caress "I'm scared." Crais leant forwards kissing her. Jess pulled back fractionally, whispering against his lips "I want to go with you."
Crais claimed her mouth again in a passionate kiss, smiling as he broke away "good! If it was my decision, I want you with me always."
They proceeded to plan a route onto Earth. Jess selecting a location in the countryside that should be isolated enough to go undetected. She contacted her mother again, informing her she would be able to return briefly, holding the phone away from her head and grimacing at the loud shriek of excitement that escaped from her mother at the news.
With a few arns until the middle of night to help cover their decent they took themselves off to bed to get some rest. Crais shifted in his sleep, reaching an arm out to nestle into Jess and realised the other side of the bed was empty, opening his eyes and rubbing the sleep out of his eyes with a finger and thumb. He propped himself up on an elbow and scanned the room, noticing Jess sitting in the alcove of the window looking at her phone.
"Jess, you should get some rest."
Jess looked up from her phone, rubbing her eyes, pinching the bridge of her nose. Sighing, "I can't sleep."
Crais swung his legs over the edge of the bed and slowly walked towards the window. Jess looked up and smiled at him as he leaned down and kissed the top of her head. Jess closing her eyes and leaning into him.
"What are you doing?"
"Just catching up on the news since I've left, seems to be a right mess."
Crais sat down beside Jess wrapping an arm around her shoulders and pulling her closer to him. Jess winced in pain; the injuries sustained during starburst still healing. He rubbed his cheek across the top of her head before kissing it tenderly again.
Frowning, she sighed "there's a global pandemic going on, the world seems to have come to a standstill. England has been locked down for about 15 weekens." Shaking her head, not quite comprehending what she had been reading "schools, gyms, pubs, cinemas… everything apart from supermarkets shut because of a virus, things have only just started to open back up."
Crais stroked her arm with his fingertips, "why haven't your scientists produced a vaccine?"
"Well, it's a new virus, it takes time to produce a vaccine, run tests, get it signed off."
"You said it has been 15weekens?" Confused as to why the humans were taking so long.
"Well, that's the time England has been on lockdown. The virus was discovered half a cycle ago."
"Half a cycle? What is taking so long?"
Jess could hear the judgemental tone in his voice. "I think we've already established that your science and technology is far more superior than good old primitive Earth and stupid humans."
Crais snorted, "I never said you were stupid."
Jess looked up at him as Crais turned his head to smile down at her, she caressed his cheek before their lips locked together in another kiss. Jess broke away leaning her forehead on his chin. She sighed, "I thought the fires in Oz were bad enough, but it's not just this pandemic, there's been major storms, people are fighting between themselves, racial attacks are on the rise, it seems to be chaos right now."
"We still need supplies." As he rubbed his cheek on her head again.
"mmm" closing her eyes and inhaling deeply.
They both drifted off to sleep again until the alarm Jess set woke them up. Jess had advised Crais to change out of his leather pants, stating that leathers weren't common fashion for males on Earth. She also asked him not to bring any weapons, which he tried to argue.
Crais prepared the transport pod. "Remember Talyn, when we're gone and the pod has returned stay clear of any of their devices, you cannot be detected." He turned when Jess entered the pod, wearing another concerned expression on her face. "Jess?"
"I think we should wait before going down."
Crais sighed, walking up to her placing his hands on her shoulders as he smiled reassuringly at her. "Jess! What is it now? You know we must go do…"
"No, it's not my apprehension this time." Interrupting him. "England is having an uncommon heatwave; it's going to be hot tomorrow and the next day. You know, you and your heat delirium."
"How much warmer compared to this?"
Trying to figure out how to compare the units Jess frowned rubbing the back of her head "um, well, I dunno, I guess, this is optimum temperature for you?" Crais nodded. "umm, well, maybe optimum plus, um no more than ten" shrugging, thinking their current temperature felt around 20 degrees celcius.
Crais smiled, "I should be able to handle those temperatures for a few solar days. Having been born on a planet, I can tolerate higher temperatures than those born on a carrier. Plus, Talyn can help regulate my temperature if needs be."
Jess raised her eyebrows at his last revelation.
"So, are you ready?"
It was a short journey down to Earth, the pod touched down briefly in the field Jess located as Crais and Jess quickly disembarked. Jess watched as the pod disappeared, sighing when it was out of view. She closed her eyes briefly as she lowered her head back down, looking at the grass that surrounded her feet. Crais looked around, inspecting the area to ensure they were unaccompanied. Jess slowly sank down to her knees and gingerly reached her hands down, running her fingers through the blades of grass. She gasped and laughed, tears filling her eyes. Crais turned to look at Jess, pausing for a moment to allow her to savour the moment, before stepping up beside her and holding out a hand. "We should get going."
Jess looked up and smiled, taking his hand as Crais helped her to her feet. He brushed her cheek with the back of his fingers and thumb, wiping the tears away.
They started trekking to the nearest town, the full moon providing some gentle lighting, as they crossed into the next field Crais stopped as he noticed movement off to the side. Jess continued on, pausing when she sensed Crais was no longer following "what's wrong?"
As Crais stood still looking off into the distance "what are they?"
"It's just some cows" laughing "animals, they're harmless, come on." Crais raised his eyebrows and continued to follow.
As the sun started to rise, they reached the town. Crais frowned as he watched Jess use her phone to communicate with something, she called an Uber. "Here put this on over your mouth and nose" handing him a makeshift buff.
"What's this for?"
"We apparently can't travel without face coverings, due to this virus. Plus, it will hide your transponder."
Crais kept quiet on the journey pretending to sleep while Jess chatted to the driver. They reached Jess's house as she retrieved a key from a compartment under a bush and opened the door Jess turned and smiled at Crais, "welcome to my home!" as she stepped in Crais followed her in, taking in the surroundings. She retrieved some glasses and filled them with water, handing one to Crais as she took a drink herself. "We should probably get some more rest."
Crais followed to her bedroom, pausing to glance at a picture on the wall "what is that?"
"A picture of my dog… A pet, she's at my parents, they were looking after her while I was on holiday."
They both undressed, Crais sat on the bed, mentally admiring the comfort of it. Jess took herself off to the bathroom. "Oh god yes!" as she returned and stood in the doorway smiling. Crais frowned at the instrument Jess moved about in her mouth. "My god, it feels so good to brush my teeth!" Jess stepped away again out of sight as she came back smiling still running her tongue across her teeth, "ah so clean!"
Crais frowned again "clean? That's what a dentic is for!"
Jess laughed, "yeah but there just something mmm" pulling an icky face "about putting some magot looking bug in my mouth!" Jess laid down with a deep sigh, realising she missed the gentle hum of Talyn. Crais laid down next to her as he raised his arm to let Jess snuggle in. She rested her head on his chest, careful to avoid the healing burns he sustained during starburst.
They slept soundly for a few hours until they awoke with a start. Someone was banging on the door. "Jess! Jessie!"
"Who's that?"
Jess looked at Crais in horror, there was only one person that called her that.
"Jess?" Crais questioned
"Shhhs!" as she raised her hand to him, signalling for him to be quiet.
Crais cocked his head disapprovingly at her.
The voice outside shouted again "Jessie! I know you're there. Open the door now. Open the door or I'll phone the Police to open it!"
"Shit!" As she swung her legs over the side of the bed.
"Jess, who is it?"
"It's my ex." Shaking her head. "Just stay here I'll get rid of him." As she grabbed some clothes and dressed herself hurrying downstairs as more bangs sounded on the door.
Crais frowned and pursed his lips as he got up and dressed himself, quickly checking in with Talyn before moving towards the door to listen in on the new guest.
Jess took a deep breath, clenching her jaw before opening the door.
"Jessie!" as the guy pushed his way in grabbing her in an embrace nuzzling his head into her hair "God, you're alive!"
Jess groaned in pain and squirmed "get off me. Paul, what the hell are you doing here?" As she pushed him off, folding her arms across her chest.
"Jessie! Where have you been?"
"That's none of your business. How'd you know I was here?"
"Your Mum told me?"
"What? You've been talking to my Mother? What the hell, you have no right in contacting her."
"No right? Jessie, we were going to be married in a few months."
Jess snorted, "Yeah, maybe you should have remembered that before you shacked up with that bimbo!"
"Jessie, that was a mistake. I've said I was sorry." As he reached out to grab her arm.
Jess instinctively stepped backwards "don't touch me!" As she glared at him. "Anyway, Mum didn't know I was back yet, so I'll ask again, how the hell did you know I was here?"
Paul bit his lip, "I set up find my phone and linked it to your account."
Raising her voice, "you've been spying on me! Hacking into my accounts? How dare you!" as she tried to shove him out the door.
Paul grabbed her arms "Jessie!"
"Stop calling me that!" As she struggled against him "get off me!"
His grip tightened as he pulled her closer as his lips connected with hers in a frenzied kiss.
Jess moaned, struggling against him, trying to bring her knee up to his groin. With that Crais burst through the door and grabbed Paul by the throat prising him off Jess and lifting him off his feet before throwing him to the floor.
Crais turned to look at Jess, "Are you ok?"
Whispering "what are you doing? You can't be seen!"
Before Crais answered Paul had recovered and tried to attack Crais. He rolled his eyes and turned to punch the inferior human when Jess pushed him back "Stop it!"
Crais scowled at her while Paul attempted to attack again, grabbing Jess and forcing her to the side, she cried out in pain as she collided with the wall. Crais easily blocked his attack and punched him square in the face knocking him to the ground. Paul attempted to get up again when Crais pulled his pulse pistol on him taking aim, stopping Paul in his tracks.
Jess screamed "what the hell are you doing!?" Standing in front on the guy laying in the doorway glaring into Crais's shocked eyes.
"He attacked you!"
Paul glared up "what the hell did he just say?"
Jess turned, "get out of here Paul and don't come back."
"Jessie, who the hell is this guy? Get away from him!"
"Paul, get out of here and don't come back. This is none of your business!"
As he scrambled to his feet, holding his hand out to Jess "come with me Jessie. What's he done to you? Are they from him?" pointing towards the cuts and bruises across her face.
Crais stood alert, prepared for another attack, glaring at the man.
"No, he saved me! Now get the hell out of here and don't come back." As she pushed his hand away.
Paul attempted to step forward again, Crais growled and raised his pulse pistol again, pulling Jess back behind him.
Staring at the gun, Paul slowly backed away towards his car.
Jess pulled Crais back and slammed the door shut. Turning furiously and raising her finger up towards Crais. Her voice trembling with anger "what the hell were you thinking?"
"Jess! He attacked you!"
"I can handle myself! What the hell were you thinking!?" Pointing at the pulse pistol. Crais opened his mouth to answer. "Bloody hell Crais." Pushing him back, her strike taking him by surprise.
Crais reached up to hold her cheek to calm her, she slapped his hand away. "You promised!"
"Jess."
"You frelling promised Crais! No weapons" shoving him again.
As he grabbed her wrists, she struggled against him.
"And I'm just going to stand back and let him attack you." As he released her wrists gently pushing her back in frustration.
"I said NO weapons! This is my world Crais and you, you just ignored my request." She went to push him again as he caught her wrist with a grip that was tight enough to be on the point of being painful.
"Jess calm down!" Not realising that was like waving a red flag at a bull for a female human.
"Calm down?" As she pulled her wrists free glaring at him; if looks could kill, he'd be dead ten times over. "We've been here less than 4 hours and you've already messed things up!"
"Me?" Crais questioned defensively "You were the one that invited him in." Shoving her back as she slapped one of his hands away which he grabbed again causing her to try to break free. "Stop it!"
Their frustrations caused them to grapple, but any strikes were half hearted, they weren't trying to hurt each other. The fight soon led to their passions igniting. Due to their injuries, it had been a number of days since they were intimate. Their needs taking over as they fought to remove each other's clothes as quickly as possible while their mouths passionately locked together in a hungry kiss. Crais lifted her and pinned Jess between himself and the wall as they made love. Ravishing her body with his lips. Jess groaned as his grip around her healing ribs shot pain through her nerves as she wrapped her arms around him, not caring about avoiding his injuries as she grazed her fingers down his back, causing him to growl in pain. Their bodies a mixture of pleasure and pain, confusing their senses. All too soon they were both left shuddering in their release. Crais' face hidden against her neck as their frantic heart beats began to slow. Breathing heavily, Jess nuzzled her cheek against Crais' head, encouraging him to look at her. As he slowly lifted his head, wearing a perplexed look as their eyes met, Jess's eyes filled with a hazy bliss. They silently searched each other's faces before Jess slowly started to smile brushing her nose against his as she closed her eyes and bit her bottom lip, letting out a little chuckle.
"Now that's how you kiss and make up!"
Crais pulled away and set her on the ground, frowning down at her resting his hands on her hips, as she smiled sweetly back. Still annoyed with her he fought back his smile, no wanting her to win this silent fight. He had never come across anyone who could diminish his anger as quickly as she could.
She leaned up placing a finger under his chin as she brushed her lips over his, feathering light kisses over him before brushing her nose against his and grinning.
Sighing he reached up to brush the hair off her face "I'm sorry."
She shook her head "I'm sorry too. Let's put it down to a stressful situation, but please Bialar, no weapons."
Crais smiled and nodded.
As they dressed Crais's curiosity got the better of him "who was that man?"
Jess starred open mouthed at him, not sure how to proceed. "well, um, we used to be in a relationship."
"Him?" amusement in his tone.
Half smiling "yes him." Folding her arms across her chest.
"He kissed you, does he still think you're in a relationship?"
Jess bit her bottom lip, cocking her head to the side "sounds like you're jealous!"
Crais laughed "of him? I hardly think I have anything to be jealous of." As he lent in and kissed her.
Jess pulled away "we were due to be married, I broke things off when I found him in bed with another woman. It was just before I went to Australia, when I came through the wormhole. Deep down I knew it wasn't right."
Crais looked uncomfortable "Jess, on the Command Carrier, I, um" looking around.
Jess frowned worryingly at him as she reached out to hold his hand "Crais?"
Crais licked his lips and looked around, avoiding eye contact with her "I, um. Larell and I, we…"
Jess shook her head and reached up cupping his cheek as he closed his eyes leaning into her touch. "I kinda guessed that. It's fine Crais."
Shaking his head "no Jess, it's not, I'm sor"
Jess leaned in for a deep kiss, silencing him.
Jess headed out to get some food leaving Crais to; as Jess described, "make yourself at home" as he explored these new surroundings. He noted Jess had a lot of possessions. He walked over to a large monitor before a familiar picture grabbed his attention. He squatted down and picked up a box with Crichton, Aeryn, D'Argo, Zhaan and Rygel on, as he turned it over smaller cases fell out of the larger box. He picked them back up as he noticed on another smaller case Chiana, Scorpius, Braca a Scarran and another being he did not recognise. He wished he could read the symbols on the cases. He replaced it as he continued exploring, the were numerus pictures on the walls. He reached a unit with some books on, noticing a few with the same symbols on as the box as he reached out to inspect them. Again, noticing pictures of the crew of Moya. As he flicked through the pages he paused when he found himself staring at a picture of himself; there was a picture of him at Aeryn's funeral, his fight with her shortly after Talyn gave him the hand of friendship, he frowned even more at a picture of himself with Pilot on his chest. Then remembering Jess had said in her world he provided the voice of Pilot. He continued turning the pages when he another image showed him in some sort of uniform holding a creature, similar to the one in the picture he had questioned Jess about earlier. Turning the pages again he came across a picture of Scorpius causing him to scowl, he noticed a picture of a Sebacean looking man presuming it was human, as he looked closer, he noticed the resemblance to the half breed. He looked up suddenly at another bang on the door.
"Jessica? Jessica?"
Crais placed the books down and stepped away from the windows.
"Please Jessica, it's me. Open the door!"
Weighing up his options he realised the woman wasn't any sort of enforcer but sounded like the one Jess previously communicated with; her mother.
Jess turned the corner towards her house stopping dead at the sight before her. As she slowly started to move again, towards her mother who was rummaging in the bush looking for her spare key.
Realising the key was no longer in its safe place she stood up with a sigh placing her hands on her hips "dammit" as she went to bang on the door again.
"Mum." Jess's eyes filled with tears as she smiled tremulously as her Mum turned at her voice.
"Jessica!" As she ran up to her daughter, tears streaming down her face as she embraced her. Jess groaned in pain. "Oh Jessica!" Squeezing her tighter as if she never wanted to ever let her go.
Jess groaned again feeling like her ribs were breaking once again, "Mum, please." As she gently tried to wriggle free.
Mum pulled away cupping Jess's cheeks in her hands, scanning the scratches and bruises across her daughter's face. "Jessica? What happened to you? Where were you? Was it that man that did this to you?"
Jess frowned pulling her head away, gripping onto her mum's hands pulling them into her chest "how do you know who I'm with?"
Her mother sighed, looking slightly embarrassed.
"You've spoken with Paul?" Shaking her head "I can't believe you've been communicating with him."
Interrupting "why not? We've all been worried sick searching for you! Disappearing off the face of the earth without warning." Jess laughed, if only her mum knew how true that statement was. "Then phoning me out of the blue. Paul said a man in your house attacked you both"
"Paul's a lying sack of shit Mum."
"Paul's been leading the search for you, dropping everything to try and find you! Where have you been?"
Jess rubbed her head; she couldn't believe her mum was so supportive of Paul. "Mum, it's a long and confusing story."
"So, what you're not going to tell me?"
Sighing, "no, Mum, but I think we need to go inside, sit down for this story time!" As she walked past her to the door. As she opened the door, she turned "just wait here a minute, please, I just need to do something." Mum gave a half smile in forced agreement.
Jess closed the door behind her, placing the shopping bag on the side, "hey Crais?" When he didn't answer she continued into the lounge "Bialar?"
Crais stood slowly, realising she was alone "Jessica, someone else came to the door."
She walked up to him, placing her arms around his waist "yeah, my Mum." She looked longingly into his eyes. "She's outside, I haven't managed to tell her where I've been yet, I thought it best if she came in and sat down." Crais nodded as Jess reached up to kiss him. Jess pulled away scrunching up her nose "would you mind just waiting…"
"Of course."
Jess rested her forehead on his chest "thank you. Um, wait up in the bedroom and I'll call you down when it's time for introductions."
"Do you think that's wise?"
Jess smiled "well I think she'd certainly want to meet the man that's stolen my heart!"
Crais laughed "mmm, it wasn't that hard to steal, in fact I believe you were the one that enticed me."
"Me!"
"Mmm" smiling in agreement.
"Excuse me sir, I believe it was you that kissed me first!"
"Only because I thought I had to human!" Smirking, "you kissed me back."
"And you then followed me to my quarters!" Raising an eyebrow.
Crais raised an eyebrow in return, "well, yes I suppose." As he stroked her cheek with his thumb as he cupped it in his hand "I was intrigued the moment I laid my eyes on you."
"Wow, I never knew you could be so romantic!"
Crais smirked "romantic? Not at all, it's merely intriguing seeing a woman floating in space without a ship!"
Jess playfully hit his chest "you basta." Before she could finish her expletive Crais silenced her with his lips as he pulled her in for a kiss.
Crais made his way upstairs while Jess invited her Mum in. She proceed to resight the last six months and how she ended up as an 'extra' in the middle of her favourite TV show. As her Mum sat there in complete disbelief.
"So, you went onto that ship knowing you were going to blow yourself up?"
Jess sighed realising she was just admitting to her mother she was willing to sacrifice herself with an alien. "Well, yes I suppose there was a big chance we wouldn't survive. Although I knew the creator of the show always hinted that they weren't actually dead."
"Jessica, this is absurd. How do you expect me to believe a word of this crazy tale?"
"I don't know Mum, how about you believe me because I'm your daughter, why would I lie to you?"
"This is ridiculous. Did you bang your head at all?"
"Yeah, quite a few times actually!" Shaking her head in disbelief that her Mum thought she was lying. Suddenly sitting bolt upright "Translator microbes!"
"What?"
"Mum, get google translate up on your phone?"
"What?" Looking confused.
"Oh, for god sake mum!" Grabbing her phone from the side opening the web page up before handing it back to her "here! Type out a statement, question or whatever. Select a language, press speak."
"Jessica?"
"Just do it! You don't believe me, then I won't understand what you've written. I've got these translator microbes in my head that translates everything into English."
Mum started typing out a question then selected it to be read out in Spanish, knowing her daughter was pretty useless at languages at school. To her surprise Jess translated the question and gave her answer. She tried again and again and again. Finally sitting back in her chair and dropping the phone down after testing her daughter with numerous different languages.
"Believe me now?"
Mum sighed, "well, your story seems consistent and you were always rubbish with other languages so I highly doubt you've become fluent in any other language over these six months." Jess laughed. "So where is this Crais, you said you travelled with?"
"Upstairs."
"You have an alien upstairs?"
"Well, where else is he going to stay?" Rolling her eyes. "Did you want to meet him?"
"Meet an alien?"
"Well, he looks human, I'll just have to translate." Mum nodded. "Just promise not to freak out or interrogate him too much." Mum nodded again.
Jess headed off to fetch Crais while Mum paced nervously.
Jess smiled reassuringly to Crais, "you ready?"
Crais looked worried before inhaling deeply, pulling his shoulders back and smiling "yes."
As Jess opened the door mum stood in the middle of the room her mouth open in shock "Mum, this is Bialar Crais, Crais this is my mother Elizabeth Parker."
Crais held his hand out to greet Elizabeth as she looked at it and tentatively took it in her hand, it was cool to the touch as she gently shook it in response as Crais nervously said "hello."
Elizabeth gasped "you said he didn't speak English?" questioning her daughter.
Slowly taking his hand back "I'm afraid my English is extremely limited" in his native tongue.
Elizabeth stood opened mouthed in shock, confused she looked at Jess "wha, what did he just say?"
Chuckling "he said his English is extremely limited." Smiling affectionately up at him.
They continued to make small talk, Jess translating Crais's answers for her Mum. Jess made some breakfast for them all. While she was preparing Elizabeth whispered to Crais "you understand me yes?"
Crais nodded.
"Good. I've seen the way she looks at you. Do you love her?"
Crais shifted uncomfortably in his seat, not wanting to make eye contact. His personal life was always remained private. He swallowed and pursed his lips. Glancing towards briefly at Elizabeth who stared at him awaiting an answer, as he slowly nodded his head.
"Right, so you'll both be staying here?"
Crais quickly looked up at her, licking his lips as he stroked his chin "I, ugh, think it would be best to speak to your daughter."
"I don't understand you. It's a yes or no question. Will you both be staying?"
Crais stood. Elizabeth stood. Just as Jess walked in with breakfast.
"Hey, what are you two talking about?" Smiling nervously at the tension she could sense.
Elizabeth headed towards the table "nothing darling."
Crais smiled and quietly commented as Jess passed him "you've not told your mother we're not staying."
Jess stared at him and then her mother who looked at her expectantly waiting for her to translate.
Smiling and completely ignoring the elephant in the room "well, eat, don't want it to get cold." As she laid out the plates of eggs, bacon and toast on the table, returning to the kitchen for the coffee. As they sat in silence while they ate. Jess watched Crais waiting for his reaction to his experience of human food. He seemed to be enjoying it as he picked up the cup of coffee and looked it over. Jess smiled "it's called coffee." As he slowly took a sip, raising his eyebrows appreciatively. "You like?"
Crais smiled, "yes. It has a unique taste."
As they finished Elizabeth stood collecting the empty plates "Jess, would you help me with these in the kitchen?" Clearly indicating she wished to speak to her daughter alone.
Jess nodded, placing her hand on Crais's giving it a reassuring squeeze before following her mum out.
As soon as they were in the kitchen Elizabeth turned on her daughter "what aren't you telling me!?"
"Mum, please."
"You're not planning on staying, are you?"
"Mum."
"Are you!?"
Jess sighed "no, we can't."
"What do you mean you can't, of course you can."
"Crais's ship is a living ship, he's currently alone."
"Then he can go back and reunite with his ship. You don't need to go."
"But I want to Mum. I thought I wasn't ever going to see Bialar again and" pausing to take a deep breath, the pain of potentially being apart from him plastered across her face. "I've never felt like this before Mum. I love him."
Crais could hear their conversation clearly from the other room. Learning Jess's father was away with work. Elizabeth was starting to come to terms that her daughter wouldn't be staying as Jess relayed the plan to gather stocks before returning to Talyn. As he returned to look through the books he had found earlier. Scrolling through pictures of his allies next to pictures of humans, who he presumed portrayed these characters. He looked up when he heard the front door close before Jess walked in looking unhappy. "Are you ok?"
Jess smiled briefly, "yeah. I'll be ok." As she noticed the magazines in his hands. Chuckling "seen anything interesting?"
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to intrude."
Jess shook her head walking up to him "not at all." As she looked at the page he was on, "ah, that is an actress called Gigi. She plays Chiana."
"mmm, I can see the similarity."
Jess continued to talk through the information in the magazines as Crais listened intently. "This guy…"
Crais interrupted "Scorpius" almost growling his name.
Jess laughed, yeah "Wayne, he's actually a lovely person, I met him a few years back." As she walked over to retrieve a folder. Opening it up and flicking though the pages, turning it round showing a picture of her and Wayne. Smiling and flicking through the pages once more "and this one." Biting her lip, smirking as she showed a picture of her and Lani.
Crais frowned and walked closer to get a better look, staring at a picture of a man who looked exactly like him. "You look very young here."
Jess laughed, "yeah, I was a teenager back then." Jess got her phone out and proceeded to show him pictures of the actors now.
"Where's my hair gone?"
"He's cut it off."
"Hmm" seemingly approving of the new look.
"What's wrong with her hair?" Staring at a picture of Claudia.
Laughing "she's just dyed it."
"Why?"
"Well, I presume she wanted to."
"I prefer the black."
Rolling her eyes "yes, I see many people commenting on that too, but it's her hair. She can do what she wants, doesn't need to gain approval from others."
"Do all humans change their appearance?"
"Yeah, it's pretty common, people fighting for acceptance in a very judgemental society."
Crais gave a disapproving "mmm."
They decided Jess would go out to start getting supplies. Taking Crais's measurements to get some clothing for him so he wouldn't look out of place; she wanted to take him out to show him some of her favourite local places. Crais had questioned about the books and magazines, causing Jess to ask if he wanted her to put Farscape on for him, which he agreed too. It would be interesting to see how closely this show of hers followed the true events of his life.
Jess returned and Crais helped her unpack.
"There seems to be a lot of packaging?"
"Yeah, that's a big problem here, we're pretty wasteful." Handing him the clothes "here go try these on, then we can head out." She'd chosen some plain cargo trousers and plain black t-shirt, trying to keep it simple and close to his usual attire so he didn't feel too uncomfortable.
It was a short drive to the beach. Jess had packed a picnic and some towels. Constantly checking with Crais that the he was ok in the temperature in between singing along to the songs on the radio. Crais admiring how relaxed and at ease she was. Jess picked a quieter area with a short walk down across a field to the beach, there was hardly any others about. Once again checking Crais wasn't suffering in the heat, despite the cooler afternoon temperature and gentle breeze.
They sat enjoying the picnic, Crais taking in the beauty of the area, feeling relaxed for the first time in cycles. Silently checking in with Talyn who was remarkably tranquil. Jess noticed the slight hand gesture towards his transponder, knowing he was communicating with Talyn.
As she lay down on her side leaning on her elbow "he ok, up there?"
Crais looked at her smiling "yes. He's at peace. It's the first time he's not been pursued."
Jess smiled back "and you?"
Crais chuckled "Earth is very beautiful."
Jess chuckled back sitting up pulling her top off revealing a bikini "come on" as she stood slipping her shorts off and heading down towards the sea. Crais looking horrified at her as an elderly couple were walking past. Turning back at him "come on!" motioning him with her hand. Crais sat still, politely nodding and smiling at the couple as the got closer.
"I think she wants you to join her" the man chuckled as they continued on their way.
Crais smiled again. Looking back in the direction Jess had gone off, the smile quickly disappearing when he couldn't locate her. Standing quickly in a panic, sighing in relief as Jess resurfaced as she started moving through the water. Crais raised an impressed eyebrow at the ease in which she travelled through the water.
She stopped and looked up at him "come on! Come cool off, the water's lovely!"
Looking round, not seeing anyone else coming in their direction he pulled his top off and removed his trousers to the boxers and tentatively walked down to the water. Slowly wading in as he turned to check they still were alone. Frowning as he turned back, Jess had disappeared again. Squinting to try and locate any movement as she suddenly resurfaced just ahead of him.
"Ah, isn't this great!" Noticing his unimpressed glare, he had waded up to his chest. She chuckled as she swam up to him, ignoring the discomfort from her rips wrapping her arms around his neck, her legs around his waist kissing him. "What's the matter? Don't like swimming?"
He held her tightly "Swimming? It's not fun, just survival. We try to avoid it as much as possible." Referring to his former Peacekeeper life.
Jess laughed, "of course it's fun, great fitness it's relaxing and swimming in the sea is so refreshing, being at one with nature!" As she shrugged. "I've missed the water so much!"
"Mmm, you seem very competent."
Jess kissed him again "yeah I used to swim competitively as a kid, until I moved into Triathlons. I'd swim most days."
Crais stroked a stray strand of hair behind her ear "Jess…you seem happier than I've ever seen you, are sure you don't want to st."
"Don't!" Interrupting him from finishing his question, shaking her head. "Being with you makes me happy Bialar. I've made my decision." Laughing "if you'll still have me."
Crais smirked "of course!" Kissing her deeply as the waves gently swirled around them.
Their private bliss abruptly interrupted by shouts from the shore. Recognising the female voice Jess turned her head to the direction it came from.
"Jess?" The woman shouted "oh my god it is you!" As a woman dressed in sports kit started walking towards the water, seemingly transfixed by the view in front of her until a wave soaked her feet, shaking her out of her daydream state as she jumped back. "Jess!?"
"Oh my god, Becky!" as Jess jumped out of Crais's arms as she started to swim to shore, turning back at Crais "hang on a sec."
As Crais stood uncomfortably in the sea as he watched the two women laugh and embrace.
Jess flinched. Becky pulling back concerned. "Where the hell have you been. We all thought you were dead! What happened to you?" Stroking her face, concern filling her eyes at the injuries over her face.
Jess clasped her hand over her friends, smiling as she proceeded to give a brief account of the last six months.
"Are you fucking with me!?" Becky snorted.
Jess shook her head smiling. "Here I want you meet someone!" As she turned to Crais who stood awkwardly in the sea motioning for him to join them. "Come on! I want you to meet someone very important!"
Crais self-consciously looked down at his half naked body. Nakedness wasn't necessarily a taboo in the Peacekeepers or Sebacean community but he felt a bit exposed, meeting someone new half-naked surely wasn't a custom in any society. Looking up and seeing Jess's eagerness he slowly made his way out of the water.
Jess suddenly holding her breath biting her lower lip approvingly at the sight of her lover walking towards them, water dripping off his broad chest as she cleared her throat.
"Dam, he works out." Becky approvingly commented as Jess jokingly slapped her arm.
Crais hearing and suddenly looking even more awkward, Jess quickly retrieved a towel for him handing it to him. Crais smiled appreciatively at Jess as he wrapped it round himself.
"Becky Jones this is Bialar Crais."
As Becky reached out to shake his hand "Hey, nice to meet you."
Crais smiled, taking her hand "hello."
"Dam, good grip!" as Becky shook her hand light-heartedly.
"Becky and I have been close friends since we were children."
"Jess tells me you can understand me but I won't be able to understand you?"
Crais nodded "that is correct. Jess and I have translator microbes. Where I come from, they're injected at birth to allow us to understand and communicate with other species."
Becky looked gobsmacked at him. Looking at Jess "and you understood that?" Jess smiled "Ok then, repeat this to Jess." Leaning in close to whisper to Crais, as he stiffened, unsure on what she would do. "What did we do for New Year's Eve last year?"
Crais frowned and repeated the question to Jess. "We rented a cottage with a hot tub, roasted marshmallows on the fire, played cards against humanity, drunk a ridiculous amount of Prosecco, before you passed out drunk missing midnight!" Smugly smiling at her best friend.
"Shit!" Becky exclaimed before laughing hugging Jess. "You're really telling the truth! You've been living in that weird show you've been obsessed with for like ever!"
"Uhhuh!"
Crais took that moment to head back to his clothes, dressing himself feeling less exposed.
They all sat for a couple of hours, Jess and Becky catching up. Laughing and retelling stories, Becky trying to embarrass Jess with stories of their youth or mishaps on their numerous nights out. Much to his surprise, Crais actually enjoyed Becky's company, she was quite similar to Jess, asked questions of Crais and listened intently when Jess translated his replies and genuinely seemed supportive of Jess when she was informed, they wouldn't be staying on Earth.
"Well, you seem happier than you have in a long time!" Smiling at Jess before turning to Crais "it's clear you make her very happy! Thank you for taking care of her!" As Crais glanced at Jess his eyes softening. Becky turned back to Jess placing her hand on her knees "and it's obvious by the way he looks at you, how much he loves you!" Crais quickly looked away, clearing his throat embarrassingly; still not fully comfortable with such an open display of emotions. Becky squeezed Jess's knee reassuringly "you deserve to be happy!"
Crais and Jess headed back home picking up a takeaway on the way back because Jess had "craved junk food." Which she had to explain to Crais. Jess also picked up some beers explaining they were like fellip nectar. While Jess dished the up the Indian, she told Crais to pick something to watch, Crais started another episode of Farscape.
Jess laughed as she walked into the living room seeing what he had selected to watch "enjoying it?"
Crais looked at her "it's peculiar. The events are exactly how it occurred when Crichton first came through the wormhole."
They watched some episodes, Crais watching intently. Jess had snuggled into Crais's lap and drifted off to sleep. She jolted awake, looking at the clock it was late, Crais still focused on the events occurring on the screen. Jess realised he had made it to That Old Black Magic. Sitting up taking the controls "hey, we don't need to watch this one. Common, it's late. We should get some rest." Switching the TV off and leading him upstairs.
Jess rolled over, half awake and reached to snuggle into Crais before realising he wasn't there. Suddenly fully awake she could hear the TV downstairs. Looking at the clock, 3am, rubbing the sleep from her eyes, she slowly made her way down to the living room. The sight that greeted her broke her heart. Crais was crouched in front of the telly, one hand on the screen, the other shielding his eyes as his head hung down, the picture paused on Tauvo.
Jess slowly crouched down next to him enfolding him into her arms as she stroked his head. "Hey." Kissing his head softly.
Crais leaned his head into her, gripping her arm tightly. "I failed him" as his voice croaked as it caught in his throat.
"No, you didn't."
"I should have protected him more."
"Hey" as she cupped his check pulling him up to look at her, his eyes filled with tears causing hers to glaze over. He tried to pull away as she held him tighter forcing him to look her in the eyes. "Tell me this…how were you to protect him?"
Crais went to interrupt "I"
Shaking her head "no! No Bialar. You were soldiers. You were both soldiers. The risks you faced every day… tell me, how were you supposed to stop him dying? How can you fully protect a soldier without stopping them doing their job? What were you going to do, wrap him in cotton wool all his life?"
Crais sighed and slowly turned to look at the TV as tears escaped and rolled down his face. He swallowed and slowly nodded his head.
Jess took the remote and went to turn the TV off "come on, let's go back to bed."
Crais shook his head and stood and moved to the sofa sitting down "no, I want to know what else this shows."
Jess opened her mouth to reply but paused, sighing, knowing how this episode ended from the point of view of Crais's story. As she sat next to him, snuggling in as she pressed play.
As that scene reached its climax, Crais held his breath, as he watched himself snap Teeg's neck. He closed his eyes, exhaling slowly. Jess held his hand and gave a reassuring squeeze. He dropped his head. His eyes still squeezed shut "and you always knew this about me? What I had done?"
Jess stoked his head "yeah." As she leaned her head against his "I put it down to the torment Maldis situated you to."
Crais gave a half smile acknowledging her theory "it was a mistake."
"What's done is done."
Crais turned to look at her as she smiled encouragingly back "I do not deserve your love."
Jess leant in kissing him deeply. As she pulled away, she leant her forehead against his "that's in your past, it's not who you are anymore." Smiling softly "I love you!"
Crais smiled cupping her cheeks with his hands "I love you too." Kissing her again.
"Come on" as she held his hand standing up and leading him back up to the bedroom.
They spent a few more days gathering supplies, Jess showing him some more areas she loved to explore. She took him kayaking, paddle boarding and on numerous drives.
As they sat watching the sunset on the beach on their last full evening Jess turned to him "so, what do you think of Earth then?"
Crais smiled, "Earth is very beautiful…humans though, you need to stop destroying it."
Jess nodded in agreement as they were interrupted by Becky shouting. "Hey, hey you two lovebirds!" As she jogged down to greet them "hey, can't stay long and don't want to be a third wheel. You still leaving tomorrow, still want my help loading everything?"
"Yeah, that would be great thanks." Jess smiled.
"Great, see you then bye!" Leaning in to kiss Jess on the cheek.
"Bye!" As she watched her jog off along the prom.
"She seems more accepting of your mother that you're not staying."
"mmm, yeah, she just wants me to be happy, knows I like an adventure."
"And your Mother doesn't want you to be happy?" Frowning as he questioned her.
"Well, it's not that, of course she wants me to be happy, but she thinks she knows best. She's always wanted me to do things she wants me to do not things I want to do. My Dad is a bit more relaxed; I wish you could have met him."
The next morning Jess was preparing breakfast singing and dancing along to the radio. Crais approached smiling, "need any help?" Jess slid up to him, grabbing his hand, raising it above her head as she spun around, wrapping his arms around her as she gently swayed. Crais stood motionless "I do not dance!"
Jess chuckled "spoil sport!" As she stopped wrapping her arms around his neck as they stood gazing fondly at each other.
At that moment Becky came up to the window without them realising, reaching for her phone she took a candid photo. As she smiled approvingly at the love reflected in the photo, she looked back up to see them passionately kissing, laughing to herself she tapped on the window "hey put him down, let me in!"
Becky helped them pack things, Jess's mum and dog also came round. They all had lunch together and said started with their goodbyes. The plan was to drive back into the countryside in the middle of the night, Elizabeth and Becky were going to help load the transport pod to reduce the time it would be on the surface to hopefully reduce the risk of someone seeing something. Jess packed a few of her favourite clothes, downloaded a few more songs and photos on to her laptop to take with her. She also packed her DVDs up and some books. Jess had recorded a video for her Father for when he was back from service."
The day went quickly, everything was packed into Becky's car as all four of them made their way into the middle of nowhere, ready to meet the pod. Elizabeth and Becky stood with their mouths open in wonder as the pod landed as they all moved quickly to load all the supplies on.
Elizabeth placed her hand on Crais's arm "may I have a private word?" He nodded as they moved away from the others, Jess looking worryingly over, nervous as to what her mother was saying.
"Hey" as Becky stood next to her, "here, open it later when you're back on your ship!" Handing her a present.
Jess smiled, "I'm gonna miss you!" tears filling her eyes as she hugged her friend.
"I'm gonna bloody miss you too!" As Becky started to sob.
They were re-joined by Elizabeth and Crais. Becky pulled away, moving to embrace Crais "you take care of her!" Crais half returning her embrace patting her awkwardly on the shoulder, as he nodded. He stiffened as she pulled away kissing him on the cheek. "I'm glad we got to meet. I can see how happy you make her!"
Crais smiled embarrassingly, replying in English "thank you. Was a pleasure to meet you too." Hoping he had worded that correctly.
Jess and her mother were still hugging. "I'm so proud of you my darling! You be careful and return if you can. I Love you so, so much!"
"I love you too Mum, tell Dad I love him too." Elizabeth nodded.
Crais walked up to Jess placing his hand softly on her shoulder "we should get going."
Jess inhaled deeply, nodding "yep" the emotion clear in her voice as she gave her mum one last hug.
Crais boarded the pod, Jess followed. Half way up the steps she turned back to her Mum & Becky, Becky comforting Elizabeth, smiling "I love you! Bye!"
Becky and Elizabeth nodded in unison, tears streaming down their cheeks. "Take care!" As they squeezed their hands together as they watched the pod disappear into the nights sky.
Jess sat silently, her eyes fixed on the viewpoint, jaw clenched. Crais glanced over at her which she sensed as she started chewing her inner lip. It wasn't long until they were safely docked on Talyn. Crais suggesting they go to command to check they hadn't been detected before unloading. Jess stood at the viewpoint looking back down at Earth. Crais hacked into some radio signals "we're clear." Looking towards Jess, frowning when there was no response "Jess?"
"Huh?" As she shook her head turning to look at him, forcing a smile.
"We've gone undetected."
Jess sighed with relief, closing her eyes briefly "like we were never here."
"Jess"
"I'm fine" interrupting him.
Crais smiled "let's unload the transport."
"Talyn, set a course for the wormhole." As she walked out of command.
Crais silently instructing Talyn to follow her orders as he followed her.
Crais had finished stocking the galley when he returned to their quarters to see if Jess was ok.
Jess had finished unpacking her things and sat on the bed with the present from Becky on her lap as she stared at it.
"What is that?" As Crais walked in and sat next to her, placing his hand on her knee.
"It's a present from Becky."
Crais gave her knee a reassuring squeeze "I'll let you open it in private" as he started to stand.
Jess grabbed his arm "no, it's ok, stay."
Crais smiled back at her as he sat back down as Jess started unwrapping.
Jess opened the note "I'm going to miss you so much but it's clear you two were made for each other! Be safe, be good, don't do anything I wouldn't do!" Jess laughed. She continued to open the box, pulling out a double photo frame. One side was a silhouette of Crais and her sitting on the beach watching the sunset. Becky must have taken it unknowingly the night before when she saw them on the beach she thought. The second picture from earlier that day in the kitchen, both of them gazing lovingly into each other's eyes. Jess's eyes filled with tears as she laughed biting her lip "sneaky cow!" As she looked up at Crais.
Admiring the pictures "they're beautiful." As he stroked her cheek, learning in kissing her softy.
Talyn woke Crais informing him they had arrived at the coordinates for the wormhole, worried that it was no longer there. Crais silently reassured him that it should appear and just to be patient. It wasn't long before the wormhole appeared. Crais gently shook Jess awake as she softly groaned.
"We're here."
Suddenly awake, Jess sat bolt upright "is it stable?"
"Yes."
Jess nodded. They both dressed quickly and headed to command.
Crais entered first as Jess followed and stood in the centre looking up "Talyn, focus on before, in the command carrier, before starburst." As she looked over at Crais "you too, hopefully that will help guide us back to the correct time."
Crais nodded "are you ready?"
Jess looked out the view point at the wormhole, then turning back to Crais smiling as she reached out holding his hand "do it!"
Crais pulled her in to his embrace as he commanded Talyn into the wormhole.
As they exited the wormhole, they both looked towards the viewpoint. Crais walking up to a console as Jess pointed "is that?"
Crais looked up to her "another Leviathan."
"Is it?"
Talyn chirped happily as Crais replied "Moya!"
They looked at each other in disbelief.
