Chapter 2

Jess nervously laughed "this seems a bit too easy!"

"Indeed" as Crais scanned for other ships in the area opening up comms when he determined they were alone. "Pilot?"

After a brief pause Crais was about to try again when Pilot answered "Captain Crais? You're back! How is this possible?"

Jess and Crais stared at each other, not quite comprehending just how easy their return had been. "Maybe it would be best to explain in person Pilot rather than on an open channel." Although there were no other ships in the area Crais was still wary.

"Very well, I will inform the others and await your arrival."

"Do you think it's actually them?"

"Talyn says Moya thought he had perished on the command carrier so it would appear so. Although it is possible it still could be one of those unrealized realities like Crichton experienced. We'll find out when we go over there."

As the transport pod docked on Moya Jess nervously followed Crais. He had given her a pulse pistol just in case which she felt awkward wearing. As the bay doors opened, they both held their breath, not sure what to expect. Crais moved in front of Jess slightly, protecting her just in case, his hand hovering over his pistol.

D'Argo and Chiana stood there waiting for them, as Crais exhaled, "Ka D'Argo, Chiana" nodding towards them.

D'Argo standing with his arms crossed his chest, growled "Crais!"

Crais sighed; the usual warm welcome from the Luxan.

Before anyone else could speak Aeryn came running round the corner, Jess noted her hair wasn't quite as long as the season four Aeryn's had been, but then she was unsure how much time had passed. "Bialar!" As she ran straight up to him.

Smiling "Aeryn…it's good to see yo…"

Before he could finish, she had flung here arms around him embracing him.

Unsure of where to put his hands, he nervously patted her shoulders, half trying to pull away.

Aeryn pulled back cupping his face gently caressing his cheeks staring in disbelief at him. Crais stood still, feeling very uncomfortable and confused by her greeting.

Jess frowned and opened her mouth to interrupt the tender moment, a hint of jealously starting to wash over her, when Aeryn spoke "you're back!" The emotion clear in her voice.

Crais nodded "yes" as he went to pull her hands from him Aeryn leaned in kissing him, wrapping her arms around his neck.

Jess stood open mouthed in shock.

Crais froze in shock, his eyes wide open. Less than a cycle ago he would have welcomed this greeting and wanted nothing more but now things were different. As Aeryn attempted to deepen the kiss, Crais half responded, half closing his eyes briefly before pulling away gently prizing her arms off him. He cleared his throat "um" slowly wiping his lips with his thumb "I." As he looked around at the others avoiding eye contact with Aeryn. "Officer Sun." As he took a step back and looked back at Jess, who greeted him with a cocked head, clenched jaw and a glare that made him catch his breath.

As he returned to look briefly at Aeryn, noticing a confused, hurt expression across her face, he cleared his throat "where is Crichton?"

Aeryn frowned, pain washing over her face from the memory "he's dead. You were there on Dam-Ba-Da."

Crais took a step back towards Jess, half turning to her to quietly conclude "I don't think this is the right reality."

Jess folded her arms across her chest, glaring at him "no shit Sherlock?" replying sarcastically.

Crais opened his mouth to reply, puzzled at what that exactly meant, but stopped himself as Jess raised her eyebrows at him as he turned back to the others.

Chiana twitched her head "and who's this!?" pulling her shoulders back, pointing towards Jess.

"No one" Jess replied as Crais replied at the same time "Jess." As he looked back at her, receiving another disapproving glare.

"Jess? Doesn't sound very Sebacean?" As Chi approached Jess, sizing her up.

Jess sighed "that's because it's not. It's human."

Chiana laughed and clapped her hands in excitement "another human!"

D'Argo unfolded his arm.

Aeryn looked confused "human? How?"

"It doesn't matter. Crais I think we should get going before we mess things up."

"What, no, Bialar you can't go. We thought you were dead!" As Aeryn grabbed his arm, her eyes pleading with him to stay.

"Aeryn, I" as he placed his hand reassuringly on hers.

"Your Crais is dead" Jess interrupted bluntly.

Aeryn glared at her.

"What do you mean our Crais is dead human? He's stood right there!" D'Argo motioned towards Crais.

She sighed "we're from a different reality. We've just travelled through a wormhole into the wrong reality."

"Wormhole?" Aeryn questioned.

"Yes, a wormhole. In our reality Crichton is still alive. We got sucked down a wormhole when Talyn starburst on the command carrier."

"John is alive?" As her eyes filled with hope.

"Yes, we need to get back before we change things or worse get stuck here." Looking over at Crais as if to remind him.

Crais turned to leave. "Wait, Bialar, please don't go." Aeryn looked up at him her eyes glazed over.

Crais frowned "Aeryn, I'm sorry, I can't stay."

"I'm with child." She blurted out.

Crais reached up to hold Aeryn's cheek. Jess's heart sank, fearing he'd stay here. After all, he had wanted Aeryn before she crashed onto the scene. "Officer Sun."

"It's yours" Aeryn quickly added.

Crais placed his hands on her shoulders, dropping his head closing his eyes and pursed his lips. "Officer Sun." He paused, looking back up to her. "We, have never, recreated. Jess is right, we're not from this reality. You and I have never been together from where I am from." Gently shaking his head "this child is not mine."

As a single tear rolled down Aeryn's cheek "but, it's you" as she held one of his arms, reaching to cup his cheek with the other hand "you're just like him."

"I'm sorry" as he gently kissed her hand, pulling away. "We have to go."

Jess suddenly felt bad for the pain she was going through. This Aeryn had obviously lost her John and then Crais and was now losing him again.

As Crais and Jess boarded the transport pod Aeryn started to follow "no!" As Chiana & D'Argo stepped up to hold her back. Chiana pulling her in to support her as she leaned her head on her shoulder offering some comfort. "Wait, you said you starburst on the command carrier but didn't die."

Jess and Crais turned on the steps, looking back at Aeryn. "Yes, I presumed we were to perish, but as Jess said, instead we were pulled down the wormhole that was next to the command carrier."

Hope suddenly creeping into Aeryn's eyes. "Crais and Talyn starburst on the carrier here too. As she looked up to D'Argo "he could have survived."

D'Argo smiled down, nodding.

"We need to find them."

D'Argo sighed "Aeryn, the chances of finding them if they are alive is slim at best."

As Aeryn started to argue with him, Jess and Crais used the distraction to take their leave, returning to Talyn.

Crais looked over at Jess "what's wrong?"

"Nothing I'm fine" replying without looking at him.

Crais frowned.

They headed off to command as they entered the wormhole appeared again. Crais silently instructed Talyn to proceed as he closed his eyes to concentrate on the time before they entered the first wormhole.

Jess clung onto a console feeling a bit nauseous, stumbling as they exited the wormhole. Crais reached out to support her but she quickly brushed his hand away.

This time there were no other ships in the immediate vicinity. "Talyn, scan for other ships." As Crais moved to the console where Jess was, she moved aside as he searched for any clues as to where they were.

"Anything?"

Crais shook his head "there are no ships in the area."

"How will we know if we're in the right place?"

Crais pursed his lips, scratching the back of his head in thought. "Talyn can scan for any familiar charts, any local hospitable planets."

Jess nodded, turning heading for the door "you search, I'll make some food."

Turning sensing something was off "Jess?" As she turned, her face emotionless. He was taken aback for a microt as they stared at each other. "Are you alright? Feeling ok?"

She clenched her jaw walking out while she called back "I'm fine."

Raising his eyebrows and shaking his head as he continued to scan.

"Jess is acting differently?"

"Yes Talyn, but she said she was fine. So, she must be."

Jess had commed Crais to say dinner was ready as he walked into the galley as she was dishing up. "Smells good" as he smiled, sitting down. Jess placing a plate in front of him before moving to sit opposite. "There's a planet two solar days away. We can try and gather information on our whereabouts once we get clo.."

Suddenly interrupting "you kissed her back" while looking down at her food.

Crais looked at her confused "I'm sorry?"

Breathing deeply "Aeryn. You kissed her back." Biting her inner lip trying to keep her emotions in check.

"I" as he frowned half laughing, shifting in his seat "no I didn't." Gently shaking his head, obviously there had been something bothering her.

Looking up at him, "yes, you did." Bluntly replying as tears threated to fall.

"Jess, no, she took me by surprise."

"Yes, but you kissed her back."

"You said you were fine."

"Don't change the subject."

Sighing, looking at her "I didn't kiss her back" as he paused looking down at the table "not fully."

Jess inhaled deeply, biting her lip, nodding. The side of her mouth twitching as a tear was on the brink of escaping. She looked away as it finally fell down her cheek.

"Jess, I was shocked by her greeting, she took be me by surprise." As he chuckled, trying to lighten the mood "she had a strong grip on me."

Jess suddenly turned to glare at him. As he looked away, maybe it wasn't a good idea to make jokes.

"I'm sorry if it caused you any jealousy."

Jess raised her eyebrows in shock, as if he was making out that her being jealous was unreasonable. "Excuse me?"

Crais went to repeat himself "I'm sorry if."

"Do you still want her?"

"Of course not."

"Then why kiss her?" Shaking her head, raising an eyebrow with a semi sarcastic tone "half kiss her?"

"As I said, I was shocked by her greeting. I… wasn't sure on what to do." Finally showing a bit of remorse. Jess nodded continuing with her food. Crais frowned, unsure if she was still upset with him. "no need to be jealous."

Jess suddenly looking up glaring at him again. Crais held his breath, instantly regretting adding that statement. "no need to be jealous?" Repeating his words back to him "no need to be jealous when my" pausing not knowing what their relationship actually was. "when you kiss another woman. Another woman who you're attracted to and made previous attempts to kiss. You're telling me you wouldn't be jealous if this situation was reversed?"

"Probably not." Confused again when Jess looked hurt at his response. "Jess I've never tried to." Sighing when he remembered the show showed when he did make an advance at her before Talyn interrupted them informing them Crichton was on route to Scorpius. "You're right, there was a time when I would have welcomed that greeting. I learnt, prior to knowing you, that that would never happen. Of course, she's… appealing, but my feelings for her changed and I care for her only as a friend." He reached over placing his hand over hers "I have no desires to be with anyone else." Jess's face softened as slowly gave a half smile. He smiled back at her "I'm sorry for the concern I caused you."

Jess smiled while looking down "thank you and I'm sorry for not telling you what was bothering me when you asked." Crais laughed. Jess looked up "for future reference, I'll let you into a little secret. When human females say they're fine. They're not and you've most likely done something wrong."

"Noted" as he continued with his meal finally. "This is very good."

"It's just beef stew."

They continued their meal discussing how they'd know if they were in the right reality. Crais stating that Talyn was currently trying to gather intelligence from any surrounding signals.

A few solar days passed; they were nearly at the planet. Jess woke in the middle of the sleep cycle to an empty bed. Rubbing the sleep from her eyes as she sat up searching the quarters for Crais. Sighing when he wasn't there as she swung her legs over the side of the bed, stretching as she headed off to find him; he'd been working non-stop trying to locate where they were and organising repairs to Talyn.

As she poked her head into command, the smile disappearing when he wasn't there as she headed off to the next likely place.

As she rounded the corner she leant against the doorway of the maintenance bay, smiling shaking her head. Crais was sat studying a chart, with numerous others spread across the table in front of him. "you're working too much."

Crais turned his head towards her, smiling give a chuckling in agreement.

She slowly walked up to him, stepping up behind him placing her hands on his shoulders as she slowly started to massage them learning down kissing his neck. "You're not going to make sense of any of this if you're tired."

Crais lowered the chart he was holding, coherent thought melting away under her touch as he slowly leant back into her.

"Come on, come back to bed."

"I can't sleep."

As Jess stopped massaging, placing her hands on his shoulders once again, leaning down whispering in his ear "I don't think I said anything about sleeping!" As she gently nibbled his ear.

Laughing as he reached up with one hand pulling her hand to his lips, kissing it tenderly "mmm, let me just finish this."

Jess pulled her hand away sighing as she leant over him, tapping the top of another DRD. "Hey, one blink yes, two for no, can this wait until the morning?" Motioning to the charts across the table. The DRD blinked once. "There we go! Off you go then." As she shooed it off as it scurried away. Taking the chart from his hand and placing it behind her as she moved round, straddling him and slowly lowering herself down onto his lap as she undid his jacket sliding her hands over his shoulders pushing it off as she went. "All work and no play makes Crais a dull boy!"

Crais held his breath, placing his hands on her hips, his eyes following her waist down. "Jess."

"uh-uh" shaking her head as she kissed him.

Pulling her closer in to him as he glided his hands up her back under her vest top, pulling back slightly as he nibbled at her neck as she flung her head back encouraging him. He reached for the transponder as she grinded her hips causing him to flinch "Talyn privacy mode" breathlessly ordering the youngster. Reaching behind her head pulling her in for a hungry kiss as he slowly peeled her top off, breaking the kiss briefly to lift it over her head as he kissed her body encouraged by her moans.

As she breathlessly nuzzled into his neck recovering from her climax, she heard him groan joining her in his own release. At the same time Talyn shuddered. Jess lifted her head fractionally but leaning back in kissing Crais's neck when he didn't react to the shudder. His hands lightly holding her hips. "Mmm." Nibbling and kissing his neck "see, play is good! Mmm!" Whispering as she trailed her nails softly down his back. Still Crais didn't move. Laughing "what's the matter? Have I rendered you speechless?"

Crais shifted slightly.

Frowning when he still didn't respond, Jess sat back, placing her hands on his shoulders as she looked at him "hey?"

Crais stared blankly back at her.

She reached to stroke his cheek, concerned "you ok?"

As Crais's eyes slowly looked down and back up to hers, Talyn shuddered again, Crais shook his head gently, regaining some focus of his surrounds.

"Crais you're starting to worry me, are you ok?"

Crais, closed his eyes, he opened his mouth to speak but nothing came out, gently shaking his head "shouting" he finally blurted out.

Jess frowned "I'm not…shouting" saying the last bit quieter. "Crais? What's?

"Crais shouting!"

Jess cocked her head cupping her hands over his cheeks gently pulling him up to look at her "Crais? Who's shout" suddenly stopping, there was something different about his eyes. The look he wore was like that of a scared child. She slowly stroked his cheek.

As Crais looked around them, motioning his hand at the surroundings "Crais shouting." Holding his head squeezing his eyes shut.

Jess sat back "What do you mean?" realisation suddenly hitting her. "Talyn?"

As Crais flung his eyes open and gasped, slowly nodding his head.

Jess's eyes wide in shock before pulling away, jumping off his lap almost falling from the speed of her retreat as she grabbed the nearest clothes on the floor holding them close covering herself. "What the hell? Talyn? What the, how? Where's Bialar?" Her breathing quickened.

Talyn looked up at her scared, looking around again before squeezing his eyes shut again "shouting!"

Jess stared at him "shouting? Crais is shouting at you?" Talyn nodded. Jess looked up at the ceiling, as Crais shuddered again "Crais! Stop shouting at him!" the shuddering settled. As Jess looked down at Talyn in Crais's body. "Talyn?" As he looked at her. She licked her lips "um Talyn…have you, uh, are you in Crais's body and Crais in yours?"

Talyn swallowed, blinking looking at his hands as he turned them over out in front of him "yes."

Jess exhaled a massive groan, running one hand through her hair "oh god" breathing deeply "you mean" pointing at him and her "we, just…um" shaking her head "that… wasn't… Crais?" Putting her hand over her mouth, suddenly feeling queasy.

Talyn shook his head "no. Only at the end. When Crais" frowning to find the words "after he was really happy."

Jess exhaled in relief closing her eyes "the shudder?"

Talyn nodded "you're angry. Like Crais is angry."

Jess looked at him, he looked scared again. "No Talyn." As she looked down at herself, turning to pull her clothing on before walking back to Talyn. Perching on the table in front of him "Talyn, how did this happen?"

He shrugged "Crais… Didn't turn privacy mode on properly. Wanted to know why this made him so happy. Wanted to feel his happiness, so, I stayed quiet."

Jess clenched her jaw, breathing deeply. Talyn didn't need to be shouted at, he was scared. Although she wanted to scream at him for being there when they made love, upset by the invasion of their privacy. "Talyn, how do we reverse this?"

Talyn frowned, looking down, shrugging. "Crais?" He sat quietly, listening to Crais in his head, looking at the floor, before nodding and reaching back for the transponder. "Sorry, Jess."

Jess half smiled as the ship shuddered again. She looked up and round before looking back at Talyn who slowly opened his eyes, sighing. "Bialar?" As she reached out to stroke his cheek.

Smiling "yeah" as he reached up to hold her hand just as she slapped him. Looking up at her shocked "Wh"

"What the actual hell Crais?"

"Jess? I"

"What the frell just happened?"

Crais cleared his throat "I, you told Talyn you weren't angry."

"Cos, he looked like a scared child; a rabbit caught in the headlights!" Crais frowned "What the bloody hell just happened? We were having sex and Talyn… he was there with us?"

Crais licked his lips "well, technically he's always there."

Jess glared at him "you know what I mean."

Crais looked off to the side Talyn was bombarding him with questions, "Talyn, privacy mode. No Talyn, it's fine. Jess isn't angry with you." Looking up and smiling, silently pleading with her. "Talyn let us speak privately with each other and I will discuss this with you after."

Jess forced a smile "Talyn, I'm not angry at you." Crais reached up and engaged privacy mode. "You done it properly this time!?"

Crais sighed "Yes. Jess, I" as he picked up his trousers and pulled them on.

"What the hell happened Crais. He was… you and you were in him" waving her hands up motioning to the ship that surrounded them.

Crais sighed "it appears I didn't engage privacy mode fully."

"And what, that made you two switch places?" Stood looking at him with her hands on her hips.

"No. As Talyn said, we didn't switch until after I" cocking his head to the side raising his eyebrows briefly smiling. "He's been curious for a while, asking questions. He obviously knows what, occurs, due to my memories. He just." Pausing, licking his lips "wanted to know how it, authentically felt."

Jess stared at him crossing her arms across her chest "so, he's been wanting to do this for a while?"

"Yes, but I've refused. I told him this was between you and I. It was private."

Jess sighed "so, how did it mean you two…switched?"

Crais shook his head, running his hand over his head to the base of his neck as he rubbed it "I'm not entirely sure, possibly where my mind was fatigued and the cybernetic bleedback allowed Talyn to take over due to his desire to feel more."

"So, he could take over because you were tired?" Cocking her head, pursing her lips.

Crais winced "possibly."

Jess rolled her eyes "I told you, you shouldn't be working so much."

"Jess."

"And how are you going to ensure this doesn't happen ever again?"

Crais pursed his lips "unsure at the moment, I can try and make some adjustments to the transponder, but"

"Right, I suggest you do that as soon as possible." As she turned heading back to their quarters.

Crais watched her leave, sighing as he reached for the transponder disengaging privacy mode. Closing his eyes as Talyn's questions rushed in. "Talyn, calm. Yes, I believe she is upset with both of us. You invaded her privacy. Talyn, this can not happen again."

He worked on the transponder for about an arn before his eyes ached, longing for rest. As he headed for their quarters he paused in the doorway, smiling. Jess had fallen asleep in the alcove of the window. He slowly walked up to her, sitting down next to her, stroking a strand of hair off her face. She didn't move, he lent in kissing her forehead as he effortlessly scooped her up placing her gently in the bed before covering her with the blanket. Crais went to the refresher, splashing some water on his face as Talyn let him know they had arrived at the planet. "Thank you Talyn, remain in orbit." As he undressed making his way back to the bed sliding in next to Jess, wrapping an arm around her as she gently moaned, instinctively shifting into his embrace. Crais smiled and kissed her shoulder, quickly drifting off to sleep.

Jess woke and left Crais sleeping. As she prepared some breakfast, she looked out the galley window, turning to a DRD, "this the planet we were heading for?" It blinked once. Jess smiled. As she sat down, the DRD nudged her arm. "Talyn, what you did. I understand you were curious, but that was a private moment between Bialar and I." Gently stroking the DRD, snorting to herself. DRDs are just like little dogs of the Leviathan world, she thought. "Is there any unrest on the planet?" The DRD blinked twice. "Can you prepare the transport pod for going down to the planet?" The DRD blinked once before scurrying off. She smiled as she watched it leave just as Crais rounded the corner. "Morning." Smiling briefly at him.

Crais smiled "morning. Sleep well?"

Jess nodded "yes, thank you."

"We're at the planet. If you wanted to come down with me after breakfast?"

"Actually" biting her lip "I'd prefer to go just on my own."

"Jess?" Sighing "we don't know anything about this planet, it could be unsafe."

"Talyn said there's no unrest."

"Jess."

"I just." Sighing looking at the floor "I just need some time to myself, Bialar."

Crais sat next to her "Jess, last night, I'm sorry. It won't happen again, I've explained to Talyn."

Nodding "I know." Smiling stroking his cheek "I just need some time, please."

Crais raised his hand to hers, turning to kiss it before nodding "check in regularly." Jess nodded, leaning in kissing him softly before leaving.

Jess exited the pod, it was a standard commerce planet, the morning market starting to bustle with life. As she made her way through the stalls, smiling and making small talk to the traders. She soon found herself at a bar as she sat on an empty stool. The barman leaned towards her, "what can I get you Miss?" He looked Sebacean, but with gold and green stripes across his skin.

"Surprise me."

"That bad huh?"

Jess laughed "I suppose so."

"It's too early for anything strong."

"Mmm" As she agreed. As he placed a vibrant green drink in front of her. As she took a sip, smiling appreciatively at the sweet taste.

"Good?"

"Yes, thank you."

Looking her over, tilting his head, observing her "So what brings, such a beautiful Peacekeeper to our planet?"

Jess smiled, chuckling, "I'm not a Peacekeeper." As she looked at the pulse pistol strapped to her leg.

"You certainly look like one and carry yourself like one."

Jess leant back on her chair "what do you know of the Peacekeepers?"

Before the barman could answer some rowdy enforcers barged in "Raslak!" The leading enforcer announced before making eye contact with Jess "oh best behaviour boys, we have a Peacekeeper in our company." As he strode up to Jess, examining her. "What brings a lonely Peacekeeper to our favourite refreshment house? Recreation?" He questioned with a hint of hope in his voice.

Jess laughed, taking a sip from her drink "I'm not that desperate to lower my standards to the likes of you" which was met with roars of laughter from the man's compatriots and the barman. Making him sulk away to where the rest sat on the other side of the bar.

Jess learnt that Peacekeepers were few and far between on his planet. However, she had learnt of a command carriers destruction close by.

Jess finished her drink smiling up at the barman "what do I owe?"

"It's on the house Miss."

"Oh no, I couldn't."

The barman raised his hand silencing her, shaking his head "the payment was the amusement of seeing that frellnik put in his place." Nodding towards the enforcers.

Jess smiled "thank you." As she left, she checked in with Crais, getting a list of some supplies he needed.

As she searched the market place for the list. It had been a couple of arns, she had sourced everything that Crais has requested. She commed Crais informing him she would be returning shortly; she could hear the relief in his voice.

She headed for the transport pod when a young woman stepped in front of her "can I interest you in some Shaklah oils?" holding some bottles up to Jess's nose forcing her to inhale the scents causing Jess to cough.

"Um, no thank…" She paused; it had been a pleasant floral smell but she suddenly felt nauseous. As she gagged holding her hand over her mouth, breathing deeply composing herself. "No thank you." As she moved away, backing away into another trader as she turned to an angry man glaring at her "Sorry."

She continued to the pod but suddenly feeling sick she rushed to a nearby alleyway bending over before throwing up as she held her hair back. She stood up slowly, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. As she turned brushing herself down, she looked up to the whole of the marketplace staring at her. "Uh, sorry." Looking back at the mess in the alleyway. She looked back to a commotion making its way through the crowds, the enforcers from the bar suddenly breaking through the crowds, surrounding her weapons trained on her. She slowly raised her hands "Um." Stood in disbelief.

"Peacekeeper. Come with us please?" As the crowds parted as Jess slowly followed.

"Um, I'm sorry, what have I done wrong?" As she reached out to one of the enforcers who jumped back out the way.

"We need to establish, what disease you've brought onto the planet."

"Disease? Oh no, sorry, I'm fine, I'm not diseased, just something didn't agree with me. I was just returning to my ship."

"You can't leave until the doctor has confirmed you are no risk."

As they entered a nearby building Jess reached down to comm Crais.

"Don't move!" the lead enforcer from the bar pointing his gun towards her. Jess nodded. As he moved off to speak to what looked like a medic, who ran off into another room before returning and whispering to the lead enforcer who looked back towards her "this way." As her motioned her into the room.

Jess made her way into the room slowly turning back to the door as it slammed shut "hey!" As she rushed towards it, slamming her hands against the door. Sighing Jess turned, there was an examination table in the corner. She went to activate her comm "Crais?" as all she got in return was static "dammit." As she heard a hissing noise from the ceiling, looking up as a mist suddenly showered the room. Jess shielded her face "oh god" although to her relief, the mist didn't seem to cause any reaction or last long. Turning towards the door again as it opened.

A female walked in, she looked like a doctor "please remove your external clothing and make yourself comfortable over there Peacekeeper." Pointing to the bed.

Jess stood still "I'm not a Peacekeeper."

The doctor nodded, "noted, but please remove your clothing."

"Why?"

"You were ill. We need to determine you are not a risk to the city."

Jess laughed, "I'm sorry, I was just sick once, something didn't agree with me. I'm no risk."

The doctor smiled "if that is so, you'll be on your way. But please, to ensure inhabitants safety." As she motioned towards the bed again.

Jess sighed, removing her clothing down to her undergarments, laying down on the bed as she watched the doctor come over. She remained tense, ready to respond if needed. To her surprise she removed her gloves.

Back on Talyn Crais paced command. "Any ships departed the planet yet?"

"Not yet."

Crais sighed taping his comm "Jess?" storming out of command when there was no response again.

The doctor smiled at the confused look on Jess's face. "What is your name my dear?"

"Jess" smiling back at the doctor.

"Just relax Jess. My name is Alarah" smiling reassuringly at her.

Jess relaxed into the bed, exhaling slowly. She lifted her head slightly when she noticed the doctor's hands were glowing a brilliant golden colour. Frowning "what's happening to your hands?"

Alarah chuckled "just relax" as she raised her hands to hover just above Jess's face, closing her eyes as her hands glided down Jess. She paused over her chest, opening her eyes "not Sebacean?"

Jess looked surprised "no. human."

"Human? I've not come across your species before."

"No, we're pretty rare in this part of the universe."

"There's stories of a male human causing hezmana for the Peacekeepers." Jess went to sit up. "Relax, please" as she gently pushed Jess down again.

"What do you know of this human?"

"Not much, it is said he destroyed a Scarren Dreadnought and a Peacekeeper Command Carrier. They say he can command wormholes. Can you also command wormholes?"

"No, but I do need to try and find this human."

"I'm sorry my dear, I don't think he's ever visited this planet." As she continued to manoeuvre her hands over Jess's body "you're very similar to Sebaceans."

"Distant cousins I believe."

Alarah smiled, her hands pausing over her stomach as she moved each hand over her sides and back to the middle "mmm."

Jess looked down "everything ok?"

"Yes" as she continued down one leg and then came back the other one. Once more moving her hands over Jess's head. "Well, you're right, you pose no risk."

"Great thanks" sitting up but stopped once again by a hand on her shoulder.

"Not just yet my dear. Don't you want to know what I have concluded?"

"What's wrong?" A slight panicked tone to her voice.

Alarah smiled reassuringly "your physiology is almost exact to Sebaceans." Jess laid back down again. "Close your eyes."

Jess pursed her lips and slowly complied. She inhaled sharply when she felt Alarah placed her hand over her closed eyes. A warmth radiated from them. "What are you doing?"

"I can examine with my hands."

Jess laughed "you've got x-ray hands?"

Alarah chuckled "something like that" as she moved the other hand over Jess's stomach once more closing her eyes.

Jess gasped as an imagine filled her mind "is that?"

"Congratulations my dear."

Before Jess could comprehend what she had just seen, there was a ruckus and screaming outside the door. Jess sat bolt upright looking for her pulse pistol, realising she had left it on the other side of the room. Before she could move to retrieve it, the door banged open.

Alarah pulled Jess off the bed and stood in front of her protecting her from the intruder, holding Jess's hand behind her holding the other up to show they were unarmed.

"Release her!" As he aimed his pulse pistol at Alarah.

Jess popped her head up peering over Alarah's shoulder "Crais?" Alarah turned her head to look at her "it's ok, he's with me."

"Is this the"

Jess quickly interrupted before she could finish "yes."

Crais holstered his pulse pistol "Jess? Are you ok?"

Smiling "yes, sorry I was brought here after I was." Before she could finish, enforcers raced in attacking Crais knocking him out from behind. "No!" Jess screamed.

As they cuffed Crais and hauled his limp body up. Jess went to run to them. Alarah pulled her back, "wait here, I'll deal with this." As she followed the officers out "Captain." The man who propositioned Jess in the refreshment house stopped and spoke with Alarah.

Jess quickly put her clothes on, ready to leave as she watched the Captain nod and walk away.

Alarah came back in closing the door "they've taken him to the detention centre, but I've negotiated, they will not charge him." Smiling "you can collect him when we're done."

"I think we're done now thank you."

"My dear please" motioning to the bed.

Jess removed her jacket and moved back to the bed, placing a hand on her stomach "is everything ok?" looking concerned.

"I believe so my dear, but I just want to double check." As Jess laid back down "what is the gestation period for humans?"

"40 weekens"

"Like Sebaceans then."

"I don't know how this happened"

Alarah looked concerned at her "do you need a lesson in procreation?"

Jess laughed "god, no. Sorry. I know, how it happened of course. It's just I've been given a medication that should have stopped conception for three cycles. I'm only half way through this period."

"I see, well it hasn't worked."

"Clearly. Do you know how far I'm along? Morning sickness commonly starts at about 6 weekens"

"Going by Sebacean standards I would suggest your about 8 weekens" as she moved her hands over Jess's stomach. "Everything looks as though it's progressing well."

Jess sighed with relief "thank you." As she went to sit up again.

"One more thing" smiling. As she moved her hand over Jess's eyes again as both closed their eyes.

Crais paced his cell, his head pounding, trying to figure out a way to escape. Stopping when a guard came to the door, preparing to attack him if he came in. As he opened the door, Crais clenched his fists at his side, immediately relaxing when Jess stepped out from behind the guard. "Jess."

"Hey. You ok?"

Glaring at her "this situation could have been avoided."

"Come on, on your way" the guard bluntly hurrying them along.

Crais followed Jess out glaring at the guard as he passed him.

"What were you thinking turning your comms off?" Grabbing her arm forcing her to stop and look at him just on the edge of the marketplace. "Just because you're angry with Talyn and I, doesn't mean you should act like a child."

Standing with her hands on her hips "excuse me? I didn't turn them off. I was unwell just after I commed and I was taken to the doctor, they were worried I was infectious."

Ignoring the fact, she had told him she was unwell "you should of commed" raising his voice causing nearby bystanders to stop and glance at them.

Not wanting to argue in front of people "maybe we should continue this back on Talyn" as she stormed off to the pod. Leaving Crais no other choice but to follow.

Jess sat back in the pod rubbing her hands across her face as she watched Crais's pod lift off. She shortly followed. Once back on board Talyn she climbed down the steps, greeted by Crais angrily pacing, stopping with his hands on his hips as she got closer "Bialar."

"No!" Pointing his finger up "what were you thinking?"

"Hey, I didn't mean for this."

Interrupting her "anything could have happened to you! How am I supposed to protect you if you're going to do stupid things like this?"

"I don't need you to protect me."

Ignoring her and continuing "Talyn and I were worried about you. Why lie saying you were returning?"

"I didn't lie! Would you listen to me?"

"No, you lectured me on Earth about how to act in your world. This is my universe; you need to act how I tell you and not act like a foolish child!" He glared at her, breathing heavily. He was so angry at her for making him feel helpless.

Tears had filled Jess's eyes, breathing deeply "you done?" Crais clenched his jaw. "You bastard." As she pushed passed him.

"Jess! We're not finished."

Shouting back without looking "yes we are. Come find me when you've calmed down and are going to listen, you ARSE." Making sure she emphasised the last word. Disappearing round the corner.

Crais growled pushing a container over in frustration. As he went to look in the pod to see if Jess had actually bothered getting any of the supplies he requested. Crais sighed, half smiling as he realised that she had as he picked them up and started unpacking before continuing on adjusting his transponder.

Jess sat on the terrace. She'd been sick again, but managed to get to the refresher in time. Watching The Greatest Showman on her laptop, it was nearing the end which meant it had been over 1.5arns since she had stormed off.

Crais stood at the entrance of the terrace feeling guilty for their argument. "What are you watching?" He softly asked. Clenching his jaw, anger flaring up again when she ignored him. Turning to leave, if she wanted to be stubborn so would he, he then noticed she had her headphones in. His anger dissipating again as he slowly walked up to her "Jess?" a little louder.

Jess looked up pulling a headphone out.

Crais smiled tentatively "what are you watching?"

"A film, The Greatest Showman" pausing it and taking the other headphone out.

"Talyn tells me you've been unwell."

"I tried to tell you that before but you didn't listen."

Crais sighed, licking his lips, sitting down opposite her "Jess, this is difficult to admit." She glared at him, he cleared his throat "I was angry, you made me fell so helpless." Her face softened. "I was frightened that something had happened to you, or that you had decided not to return to Talyn. What with Talyn's feelings intensifying mine, I didn't know what to do. I thought you had done it on purpose, to punish us for what happened before when." Crais raised his eyebrows, rolling his eyes.

"I just needed some space. Some time on my own. I was on my way back when I became ill and next thing, I knew I was being frogmarched to the doctor to check I wasn't contagious. I tried to comm you. I did try Crais, I'm sorry."

Crais nodded. "How are you feeling now?" Stroking her hair behind her ear "did the doctor diagnose anything?"

Jess looked anxious, nodding slowly.

"What is it? Did she give you any medication?"

"It's not exactly treatable, but she did give me something for the nausea."

"Well, as long as you're ok." Smiling at her "I'm sorry for being, what did you call it? An arse."

Jess gave a half laugh, the smile disappearing quickly as she looked anxious again, biting her lip, twiddling her fingers on her lap.

Crais placed a finger under her chin lifting her gaze to his "Jess what are you not telling me?" Concern written across his face, stroking her cheek encouragingly.

Jess took a deep breath "I" licking her lips. Looking down at her hands again.

As Crais placed his hands over hers, looking at her intently as he held his breath.

Biting her lip "I, um, I'm… Pregnant." Suddenly looking up at him to gauge his response as dread filled her as Crais pulled his hands away looking surprised, the colour draining from his face. He looked away, standing slowly and walking passed her to the edge of the terrace. Jess gasped, her hand covering her mouth trying to stifle the gasp as she closed her eyes, trying to squeeze away the tears that she could feel developing.

The hadn't ever discussed children; it was still early days; well, she had informed him that she had contraception. Suddenly fearful that he would have thought that she had lied to him. She stood and turned, he stood looking out to space, hands clasped behind his back as a thumb rubbed the other fingers.

"Bialar?" she hesitantly whispered.

Crais closed his eyes "is it mine?"

"Of course, who's else would it be?"

Crais looked over his shoulder "just… Peacekeepers"

Interrupting him "I'm not a Peacekeeper."

Crais smiled in agreement, slowly turning, feeling guilty when her saw how scared she looked. "It's just I thought you said you couldn't have offspring."

Shaking her head "it's not that I can't ever. Just I shouldn't of just yet. The contraception implant obviously hasn't worked. You've obviously got some strong swimmers. I'm sorry."

Crais frowned "what are you sorry for?" Slowly walking up to her cupped her cheek with his hand.

Jess reached up to hold his hand, "this isn't what you wanted. I'm sorry. Believe me, I'm just as surprised. I've never had this before, when the implant fails. I'll understand if you don't want anything to do with."

Crais interrupted her by kissing her as she moaned against his lips as a tear rolled down her cheek. He pulled back searching her face as her eyes remained closed "Jess" as she slowly opened them to look at him "it's not that I don't want offspring, I've just never been in a position to think about my own future. I thought children wasn't an option for us." Smiling at her brushing the tears away.

"So, you're ok with this?"

Chuckling softly as he grinned at her "of course" the joy finally showing in his eyes.

Jess sighed a sigh of relief chuckling back at him pulling him into a hungry kiss, pulling away "now I don't want you to be over protective of me now. Barging into doctors' surgeries when I haven't answered my comms for five microts!"

"I can't promise anything!" Smiling at her as he stroked the back of her head.

"You sure, you're happy about this?"

"Of course!" Smiling merrily back at her.

Jess smiled at the excited glint in his eyes. "Good, because there's something else."

Crais cocked his head frowning, the smile fading from his face.

Jess took a breath "it's twins."

Crais stared blankly at her, the worry plastered across his face.