Ripples In Time
By: Can (lucyc_23455@yahoo.com)
Spoilers: Up through Unrealized Realities
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: I don't own them
Many thanks to gbbarb for reading
Note: The brackets signify a dream like state
Part Two
Chiana hurried out of her quarters and headed for Rygel's cell. She needed to tell him about last night before they all met for the morning meal. She burst through his cell door unannounced, startling the Hynerian.
Rygel spun around as she entered the room. "What the yotz do you think you're doing girl? No one enters my cell in that manner!"
"Just stuff it Ryg! I have something important to tell you!" Chiana stated, the Hynerian still mumbling under his breath. "You want to know or not?"
Rygel straightened his robes and replied, "Well now that you are here, you might as well tell me what is so important that you felt the need to barge into my quarters!"
"The other one's back, Rygel. He showed up last night. Can you frelling believe it?" Her words tumbling out, pausing to take a breath.
Rygel stared at Chiana for a few microts in disbelief, allowing the news to sink in. "Frell." He said quietly, thinking. "How, Chiana? He died.I was there." Rygel reverted back to that day in his mind. Besides losing his throne and being held captive, it was one of the saddest times in his life.
"No one frelling understands, including him! Something about the Ancients. That's all he could tell us," Chiana scowled, thinking back to the explanation of the previous night.
"Oh yotz!" Rygel stammered, suddenly remembering the real dilemma they were facing. "How is John taking this, Chiana?"
"I.I don't know Ryg. I haven't seen him yet. After I woke, I came here, sure you didn't know," Chiana replied softly, only imagining the state John was in.
Clearing his throat and feeling his stomachs growling, food was utmost on his mind at this microt. "Well now that you mention it, Chiana, I think it would be wise for us to eat and discuss this later," Rygel said, rising in his throne sled, moving towards the exit. "We will need our strength to deal with this."
xxxxx
Aeryn, John and D'Argo were in the center chamber. They greeted each other with a curt 'good morning', eating in silence. John and Aeryn tried to engage D'Argo in conversation, but he only grumbled in response, uncomfortable with the whole situation.
Chiana and Rygel walked in together, nodding to the others. The only one that John hadn't seen the night before was Rygel as he rose from the table to greet his friend again.
"Hiya Sparky!" He said enthusiastically, glad to see him again, noting the suspicious look on his face. "Hey Ryg, it's me, the one you thought died. I'm back!" John grabbed him, kissing him, the Hynerian pulling away quickly.
"Don't do that, and that's still to be seen!" Rygel said indignantly, filling his plate, taking a place at the table.
D'Argo saw the dejected look on John's face. In a diplomatic manner D'Argo tried to explain. "You must understand something, John. We have been without you for two cycles. You have come aboard and expect everyone to welcome you while we have one of our own hurting."
Aeryn looked away when D'Argo said this, knowing she was part of the hurt the others were feeling.
"We welcome you and are glad you survived, but you need to give us all some time to get used to the situation again. Please.just take things a little slower," D'Argo stated, wondering about his friend.
John looked at the solemn faces in the room, knowing what the Luxan said was true. Lowering himself in his seat, he dropped his head into his hands, running them over his face. "You're right, D'Argo.sorry. It's j.just so.overwhelming for me. I thought I had lost you all.and now I have you back. I.forget there's.another me on this ship and what he must be feeling right now."
Aeryn didn't want to display any affection in front of the rest of the crew, so she placed her hand on his shoulder. "I think everyone can understand that, John. Let's just give it some time."
John nodded, sighing heavily, knowing what he had to do now. He had been so elated over his rebirth that he had forgotten the pain he had wrought on his twin, feeling only regret for his oversight. He rose to his feet ready to try and rectify his mistake. John stood for a few moments before he spoke, his head hung, avoiding their eyes. Raising his head and looking away, his eyes slightly red, he informed them of his decision. "I want an arn with him, that's all. Just one arn."
D'Argo shook his head. "I don't know if that would be wise, John, at least not by yourself. None of us have seen him this morning. We don't know how."
John stopped him in mid sentence. His lips twitched slightly before he continued. "I'm him, D. Don't you think I know what he is feeling?" He asked, his voice shaky. "Trust me."
D'Argo looked to the rest of the crew, his eyes questioning. They all nodded their heads, realizing this John was the same as theirs, sincere.
D'Argo looked up at him. "Very well, John.one arn. But promise me this," D'Argo replied grabbing him on the arm before he left. "If things don't go well you will either retreat or call me. He's suffered enough."
"I promise, D'Argo," John replied, admiring the care the Luxan showed for his friends. He hoped to get that back someday.
xxxxx
The maintenance on the Farscape module was taking longer than he thought it would. John wanted to leave as soon as possible, realizing there was no real answer to their dilemma. All he knew was there could only be one John Crichton. If Aeryn made her choice, and it seemed obvious to him that she had, it was time for him to move on. He couldn't live on Moya seeing the two of them together. He had tried to deny this all morning, but the one thing he did pride himself on was being able to see the truth whether he liked it or not.
"Suck it up, John. You were alone once before and survived.barely," he said sighing, his heart heavy with the choice he made. He didn't relish being alone again, feeling himself waver.
John rolled out from under the module, tapping his comm. "Pilot how long until we are in range of the commerce planet?" He asked, getting to his feet, walking over to the fuel that would feed his vessel.
"Commander, I still advise against this. Moya is your home. The Leviathan is large enough to accommodate all of you," Pilot replied, disheartened that anyone felt the need to leave.
"Just answer the question Pilot!" John replied louder than he meant to. Lowering his voice, he apologized. "Sorry, Pilot. I.didn't mean." He was edgy from lack of sleep from the previous night, still thinking the worst. John's mind had gone from one extreme to the other thinking about the love play that must have gone on between them. He couldn't understand how he could lose her in just a matter of microts, the pain slashing through his already crumbling heart.
"I understand, Commander," Pilot replied, knowing John would never raise his voice to him unless he was under extreme stress. It saddened Pilot and Moya that the human was so unhappy.
John leaned his forehead against the module, tapping it several times against the body of the vessel, then increasing the tempo until he was continually slamming it, the rage and pain finally rising to a crescendo, the tears spilling down his face. He felt the blood mix with the tears, but it was of no consequence since he had lost the one thing that brought him happiness. He brought his hands up, laying them on the vessel, his head still. The sobs racked his body now, not wanting to go back to a solitary life. As much as he had convinced himself it was the best thing to do, he knew he would lose it this time if he had to do it again.
John pushed himself from the module, wiping the trickling blood away with the sleeve of his jacket. Losing Aeryn was one thing. Not being with his friends was another, convincing himself he would be grateful for the small pleasures he could salvage for the dismal life that lay ahead of him.
"Pilot, cancel my last request," John ordered. "I'm staying. I can't be apart from Moya and my friends again.I don't think I could survive it a second time." The tiredness he was feeling crept into his voice, resigned now to the other guy.
Pilot was relieved. "I think it is a wise decision, Commander. We do not want to see you leave."
John chuckled. "Just don't take a vote on it." John felt another spot of blood hit his eye, reaching up with his hand to touch his forehead. "Damn!" He said seeing the bright red glaring back at him, reaching for a nearby rag. He pressed it against his head, wincing at the contact. "Yo Pilot, got another request for you. Can you get another cell ready for me on another tier? I want to be away from.them."
"Of course, Commander. The DRD's are seeing to it now. Tier eleven. We will make you as comfortable as possible," Pilot stated, pleased to accommodate him.
"Thanks Pilot," John replied, moving towards the exit. He wanted to move his belongings and get settled into his new home. It would most probably be the one he lived in for the rest of his life.
Rounding the corner of the door, John ran into his twin. He stepped back, surprised. It was the last thing he expected. John choked, his mind completely blank. He didn't have a coherent thought in his head at this moment.
His twin stood there, staring at his blood soaked head, and then looked away. "I.I apologize. I didn't mean to eavesdrop. I came here to talk, get it out in the open. you know what I mean," he said, focusing on him, seeing the pain he knew would be there. It would be the same for him.
John glared at him, eyes opened wide. "You heard? How the hell could you do that?" He felt sick. This was the last person he'd ever want to hear his thoughts!
"I'm sorry, John. I didn't come here to spy on you. When I heard you I.I just couldn't walk in," his twin stated, understanding all he felt. "You forget.I love her as much as you do."
John winced, looking away, trying to hold the tears back. "What the hell do you want with me?" He questioned, his jaw clenched tightly. "You've got. Aeryn.what the hell else do you want?" John didn't want to hear his answer, stepping to go around him.
His twin stepped in front, blocking him. "I want you to hear me out. There is work we have to do.together."
"Yeah, sure thing man. Make an appointment. I'm kinda busy these days.you know equations and all," John spat back, pushing him out of his path.
His twin watched him walk away, knowing he needed to stop him. "John!" He shouted at his back. "That's exactly what I am talking about." He was relieved when he saw him stop, knowing he had piqued his curiosity.
John glanced over his shoulder, replying, "We'll talk tomorrow. I've had enough dren for one day."
The twin could hear the despair in his voice. He wanted to explain now, but perhaps, in his state of mind it would be best. There was no use talking if there was no comprehension. He needed to talk to Aeryn.
xxxxx
He didn't like what he was observing. This was not the way they had planned it. He would have to call the council together and decide what to do to rectify the problem.
xxxxx
Aeryn was pacing nervously back and forth in command, distracting D'Argo.
"Aeryn, please stop, it doesn't help. You are only managing to annoy me now." The Luxan rolled his eyes, his impatience growing over the situation. He would be surprised if things went well with the twin. 'What did they expect?' He asked himself, wishing he could propose the question to them. There was so much he had to say, but couldn't. it would only make matters worse. All he could do was be there for his friend.
Both heads shot up as they heard the footsteps enter command. Aeryn ran over to John, breathing deeply. "Well?" She asked, hope filling her voice. John looked at her for a moment, only to step away and slowly walk towards the view screen in silence.
D'Argo's eyes followed his movements; sure he was correct about their meeting.
Aeryn looked at D'Argo, the worry clear on her face. She looked back to John, still frozen to the spot, his back to her.
"He doesn't want to talk to me now," John said simply. What he heard and saw he would keep to himself, knowing the pain went deeper than he even thought. He needed to find out why he had changed so much before he would try to talk to him again.
John turned and faced them, his hands on his hips. "He's a very bitter man." The sadness for his twin carried in his voice, surprising the Luxan. "I need to know what happened to him in the two cycles I've been gone. It's important." He saw the veiled looks on their faces, unsettled by it. If he didn't get the answer from them, he would see Chiana. She was always willing to talk.
Aeryn saw the determined look on his face. She knew he wouldn't give up until he was satisfied. "Very well, John. D'Argo and I will tell you, but you must swear not to tell.him." Aeryn shocked herself, staggering slightly, catching herself on the wall. She couldn't believe she had called John. him. 'By all that is holy, help me,' she prayed to herself, her eyes closed, feeling the Luxan's hand on her shoulder.
"Aeryn, are you alright?" D'Argo asked, seeing the look on her face.
Aeryn opened them and stared at the Luxan. "No D'Argo, but I will be," she replied to him, continuing, "John do I have your promise?"
John nodded, approaching the console where the two stood. "Just tell me."
xxxxx
John returned to his quarters. He walked into the water closet and picked up some cloths to clean his forehead. The coolness felt good against his head, holding them there a few minutes before removing them to get a closer look at the cut. He saw the bleeding had stopped, but felt a huge headache coming on.
John dropped the cloths and walked back into the room, picking up his flight bag. He was stuffing the bag when he heard a knock on the door. John turned to see Chiana standing at the entrance. He smiled for her, "What's up Chi?"
She walked into the cell, watching him before she spoke. "Where are you going John?" Chiana questioned, looking at his bag and then his face. "This is your home."
"No Pip, just a place to lay your body at night. I'll be around, don't worry," he stated as a fact. Just being in the room and smelling Aeryn's lingering scent was becoming too much for him. The move would be good for him.
"Promise me you're not leaving! If anybody has to go he does. Besides how do we really know he's really who he says he is?" Chiana was panicking, thinking the worst.
John stopped and sighed, turning to her. "As much as I hate to admit it, it's him and you know it. But don't worry Pip, I'm just moving to another cell.it's easier that way," John replied quietly, turning back to his task.
Chiana hugged him from behind. "You know I love you Crichton."
John dropped his bag, her words breaking him, reaching up with both arms, placing his on hers. "Why do I always lose?" He whispered, the tears slowly sliding from his eyes, his heart breaking into a thousand pieces, never to be whole again.
Chiana pulled her arms away and turned him, embracing him tightly in her arms. "Don't hold it in John, let go. It's ok," she said in a soothing voice, caressing the back of his neck. She felt the sobs rack his body, her own following. Chiana eased him down to the bed, rocking him gently in her arms. They were so deep into each other, neither of them noticed Aeryn standing in the doorway, watching.
Aeryn backed out quickly, leaving them alone, choking back her own tears at the sight of someone else comforting him. She felt her back meet with the wall in the corridor, sighing deeply. Aeryn quietly walked away allowing them their privacy.
xxxxx
The council convened quickly, understanding the urgency of this meeting. They watched as they were instructed by the keeper. The head councilmen rose, disappointed by what he had witnessed.
"You were correct to call us immediately. This was not the plan. Perhaps we failed in our preparation. I think it is time to reach the other as we did before. This is the only way I know to reverse the damage. Are we in agreement?"
All heads in the room nodded. "Very good," he said turning to the keeper. "We shall proceed with this course for now. Please keep us informed. it is of utmost importance for this to be successful."
The keeper nodded fully understanding.
xxxxx
D'Argo and John were still talking in command. Aeryn had let D'Argo finish telling him about his twin's past. The subject had become too painful for her, remembering how she had left him, isolated and alone. She decided to leave the room, having no desire to relive it again.
John was leaning on his propped arm, fingering the table, deep in thought. "So.after all that.he still wanted her," John said more as a statement than a question. "Damn, he's been through hell!"
"I would say so, John. She.was the hope he held onto, the only reason I think he managed," D'Argo replied quietly, still sorry about betraying his friend's past.
"I know the feeling, D. She's mine also," John said softly, glancing at the Luxan before rising to his feet. Leaning down, his hands flat on the table, he looked directly into D'Argo's face. "I love her too."
D'Argo stared at him. There was only sincerity in John's eyes, the Luxan having no doubt he spoke the truth. "I am aware of that John, which is why we have a problem. Aeryn can only be with one of you."
"That is a choice I will make! Or maybe I don't want either one of you!" Aeryn stated, standing stiffly in the entrance. "This has become too frelled!" She turned her back on them and marched out of command.
John and D'Argo stood there stunned, not understanding what brought on her response. John started to go after her, but D'Argo grabbed his arm. "Perhaps she needs to be alone for a few arns, John. This hasn't been easy on her either."
John nodded, stepping back. "How do we settle this D?"
D'Argo gripped him on the shoulder. "Perhaps we can't," he said, his shoulders slumped, slowly walking out of command.
"Frell!" The human whispered under his breath, frustrated, feeling he was in a no win situation. Someone would have to lose; he only hoped it wouldn't be him.
xxxxx
Aeryn retreated to her quarters. She palmed the door shut and pulled the privacy curtain wanting to be by herself. There was so much she had to think about and needed rest. She decided to sleep first, hoping when she woke her mind would be clearer.
She lay down on the cot and closed her eyes. Her thoughts flashed vividly through her mind, sleep becoming out of the question. She tried to pushing them away, but gave up when they became worse. Aeryn rose wearily and took her cup from the table. Reaching over to the shelf, she picked up one of the teas Zhaan had given her cycles ago to help her sleep. Mixing the leaves with water, Aeryn sipped it, savoring its comforting warmth, feeling herself relax.
She felt her eyelids getting heavy, returning to her bed. Aeryn laid on her side and pulled the blanket up, her lids closing.
The deep sleep was disturbed now by voices that were familiar to her.
[She was awake, looking around her, knowing she had been in this room before, but not why or when. She stared wide-eyed when she saw the figure appear before her. "Jack!" She uttered in surprise.
"Welcome back, Aeryn Sun," he said smiling. "It has been sometime since we last met."
"You died, I saw." Aeryn stammered, not sure what to believe. John had died, yet he was back.
"Things are not always as they seem, remember that, Aeryn," the Ancient replied, directing her towards a screen. "Please, there is something I must show you."
Aeryn obliged, feeling she was in a trance, hoping any microt from now she would wake in her room. Jack activated the screen. What she saw caused her jaw to drop, her skin growing paler by the microt. The screen turned black. Aeryn staggered back, her breathing jagged. Jack laid his arms on her shoulders, relaxing her with his touch.
"I know the shock you must feel, but it is the truth. This is why we have called you. We need your help. You can see what will happen if we don't reverse this."
"B.but I can't," Aeryn gasped, her heart constricting. What he asked of her was inconceivable.
Jack nodded, understanding. "Answer only one question, Aeryn Sun. Are you prepared to take that risk?"
Aeryn paled, pulling herself out of his grasp. All she could feel was panic as the thoughts sailed through her head.
"The decision is yours," Jack stated. "You have seen the consequences."
Aeryn dropped her head, feeling only hatred for the Ancients. They had done nothing but use them, causing them only pain. She knew it was necessary, but Aeryn had her own conditions.
Looking up at the Ancient she replied, "I will do it as long as you promise me you won't bother us again."
Jack smiled. "Of course, Aeryn Sun. There will be no further need."]
Many thanks to gbbarb for reading
Note: The brackets signify a dream like state
Part Two
Chiana hurried out of her quarters and headed for Rygel's cell. She needed to tell him about last night before they all met for the morning meal. She burst through his cell door unannounced, startling the Hynerian.
Rygel spun around as she entered the room. "What the yotz do you think you're doing girl? No one enters my cell in that manner!"
"Just stuff it Ryg! I have something important to tell you!" Chiana stated, the Hynerian still mumbling under his breath. "You want to know or not?"
Rygel straightened his robes and replied, "Well now that you are here, you might as well tell me what is so important that you felt the need to barge into my quarters!"
"The other one's back, Rygel. He showed up last night. Can you frelling believe it?" Her words tumbling out, pausing to take a breath.
Rygel stared at Chiana for a few microts in disbelief, allowing the news to sink in. "Frell." He said quietly, thinking. "How, Chiana? He died.I was there." Rygel reverted back to that day in his mind. Besides losing his throne and being held captive, it was one of the saddest times in his life.
"No one frelling understands, including him! Something about the Ancients. That's all he could tell us," Chiana scowled, thinking back to the explanation of the previous night.
"Oh yotz!" Rygel stammered, suddenly remembering the real dilemma they were facing. "How is John taking this, Chiana?"
"I.I don't know Ryg. I haven't seen him yet. After I woke, I came here, sure you didn't know," Chiana replied softly, only imagining the state John was in.
Clearing his throat and feeling his stomachs growling, food was utmost on his mind at this microt. "Well now that you mention it, Chiana, I think it would be wise for us to eat and discuss this later," Rygel said, rising in his throne sled, moving towards the exit. "We will need our strength to deal with this."
xxxxx
Aeryn, John and D'Argo were in the center chamber. They greeted each other with a curt 'good morning', eating in silence. John and Aeryn tried to engage D'Argo in conversation, but he only grumbled in response, uncomfortable with the whole situation.
Chiana and Rygel walked in together, nodding to the others. The only one that John hadn't seen the night before was Rygel as he rose from the table to greet his friend again.
"Hiya Sparky!" He said enthusiastically, glad to see him again, noting the suspicious look on his face. "Hey Ryg, it's me, the one you thought died. I'm back!" John grabbed him, kissing him, the Hynerian pulling away quickly.
"Don't do that, and that's still to be seen!" Rygel said indignantly, filling his plate, taking a place at the table.
D'Argo saw the dejected look on John's face. In a diplomatic manner D'Argo tried to explain. "You must understand something, John. We have been without you for two cycles. You have come aboard and expect everyone to welcome you while we have one of our own hurting."
Aeryn looked away when D'Argo said this, knowing she was part of the hurt the others were feeling.
"We welcome you and are glad you survived, but you need to give us all some time to get used to the situation again. Please.just take things a little slower," D'Argo stated, wondering about his friend.
John looked at the solemn faces in the room, knowing what the Luxan said was true. Lowering himself in his seat, he dropped his head into his hands, running them over his face. "You're right, D'Argo.sorry. It's j.just so.overwhelming for me. I thought I had lost you all.and now I have you back. I.forget there's.another me on this ship and what he must be feeling right now."
Aeryn didn't want to display any affection in front of the rest of the crew, so she placed her hand on his shoulder. "I think everyone can understand that, John. Let's just give it some time."
John nodded, sighing heavily, knowing what he had to do now. He had been so elated over his rebirth that he had forgotten the pain he had wrought on his twin, feeling only regret for his oversight. He rose to his feet ready to try and rectify his mistake. John stood for a few moments before he spoke, his head hung, avoiding their eyes. Raising his head and looking away, his eyes slightly red, he informed them of his decision. "I want an arn with him, that's all. Just one arn."
D'Argo shook his head. "I don't know if that would be wise, John, at least not by yourself. None of us have seen him this morning. We don't know how."
John stopped him in mid sentence. His lips twitched slightly before he continued. "I'm him, D. Don't you think I know what he is feeling?" He asked, his voice shaky. "Trust me."
D'Argo looked to the rest of the crew, his eyes questioning. They all nodded their heads, realizing this John was the same as theirs, sincere.
D'Argo looked up at him. "Very well, John.one arn. But promise me this," D'Argo replied grabbing him on the arm before he left. "If things don't go well you will either retreat or call me. He's suffered enough."
"I promise, D'Argo," John replied, admiring the care the Luxan showed for his friends. He hoped to get that back someday.
xxxxx
The maintenance on the Farscape module was taking longer than he thought it would. John wanted to leave as soon as possible, realizing there was no real answer to their dilemma. All he knew was there could only be one John Crichton. If Aeryn made her choice, and it seemed obvious to him that she had, it was time for him to move on. He couldn't live on Moya seeing the two of them together. He had tried to deny this all morning, but the one thing he did pride himself on was being able to see the truth whether he liked it or not.
"Suck it up, John. You were alone once before and survived.barely," he said sighing, his heart heavy with the choice he made. He didn't relish being alone again, feeling himself waver.
John rolled out from under the module, tapping his comm. "Pilot how long until we are in range of the commerce planet?" He asked, getting to his feet, walking over to the fuel that would feed his vessel.
"Commander, I still advise against this. Moya is your home. The Leviathan is large enough to accommodate all of you," Pilot replied, disheartened that anyone felt the need to leave.
"Just answer the question Pilot!" John replied louder than he meant to. Lowering his voice, he apologized. "Sorry, Pilot. I.didn't mean." He was edgy from lack of sleep from the previous night, still thinking the worst. John's mind had gone from one extreme to the other thinking about the love play that must have gone on between them. He couldn't understand how he could lose her in just a matter of microts, the pain slashing through his already crumbling heart.
"I understand, Commander," Pilot replied, knowing John would never raise his voice to him unless he was under extreme stress. It saddened Pilot and Moya that the human was so unhappy.
John leaned his forehead against the module, tapping it several times against the body of the vessel, then increasing the tempo until he was continually slamming it, the rage and pain finally rising to a crescendo, the tears spilling down his face. He felt the blood mix with the tears, but it was of no consequence since he had lost the one thing that brought him happiness. He brought his hands up, laying them on the vessel, his head still. The sobs racked his body now, not wanting to go back to a solitary life. As much as he had convinced himself it was the best thing to do, he knew he would lose it this time if he had to do it again.
John pushed himself from the module, wiping the trickling blood away with the sleeve of his jacket. Losing Aeryn was one thing. Not being with his friends was another, convincing himself he would be grateful for the small pleasures he could salvage for the dismal life that lay ahead of him.
"Pilot, cancel my last request," John ordered. "I'm staying. I can't be apart from Moya and my friends again.I don't think I could survive it a second time." The tiredness he was feeling crept into his voice, resigned now to the other guy.
Pilot was relieved. "I think it is a wise decision, Commander. We do not want to see you leave."
John chuckled. "Just don't take a vote on it." John felt another spot of blood hit his eye, reaching up with his hand to touch his forehead. "Damn!" He said seeing the bright red glaring back at him, reaching for a nearby rag. He pressed it against his head, wincing at the contact. "Yo Pilot, got another request for you. Can you get another cell ready for me on another tier? I want to be away from.them."
"Of course, Commander. The DRD's are seeing to it now. Tier eleven. We will make you as comfortable as possible," Pilot stated, pleased to accommodate him.
"Thanks Pilot," John replied, moving towards the exit. He wanted to move his belongings and get settled into his new home. It would most probably be the one he lived in for the rest of his life.
Rounding the corner of the door, John ran into his twin. He stepped back, surprised. It was the last thing he expected. John choked, his mind completely blank. He didn't have a coherent thought in his head at this moment.
His twin stood there, staring at his blood soaked head, and then looked away. "I.I apologize. I didn't mean to eavesdrop. I came here to talk, get it out in the open. you know what I mean," he said, focusing on him, seeing the pain he knew would be there. It would be the same for him.
John glared at him, eyes opened wide. "You heard? How the hell could you do that?" He felt sick. This was the last person he'd ever want to hear his thoughts!
"I'm sorry, John. I didn't come here to spy on you. When I heard you I.I just couldn't walk in," his twin stated, understanding all he felt. "You forget.I love her as much as you do."
John winced, looking away, trying to hold the tears back. "What the hell do you want with me?" He questioned, his jaw clenched tightly. "You've got. Aeryn.what the hell else do you want?" John didn't want to hear his answer, stepping to go around him.
His twin stepped in front, blocking him. "I want you to hear me out. There is work we have to do.together."
"Yeah, sure thing man. Make an appointment. I'm kinda busy these days.you know equations and all," John spat back, pushing him out of his path.
His twin watched him walk away, knowing he needed to stop him. "John!" He shouted at his back. "That's exactly what I am talking about." He was relieved when he saw him stop, knowing he had piqued his curiosity.
John glanced over his shoulder, replying, "We'll talk tomorrow. I've had enough dren for one day."
The twin could hear the despair in his voice. He wanted to explain now, but perhaps, in his state of mind it would be best. There was no use talking if there was no comprehension. He needed to talk to Aeryn.
xxxxx
He didn't like what he was observing. This was not the way they had planned it. He would have to call the council together and decide what to do to rectify the problem.
xxxxx
Aeryn was pacing nervously back and forth in command, distracting D'Argo.
"Aeryn, please stop, it doesn't help. You are only managing to annoy me now." The Luxan rolled his eyes, his impatience growing over the situation. He would be surprised if things went well with the twin. 'What did they expect?' He asked himself, wishing he could propose the question to them. There was so much he had to say, but couldn't. it would only make matters worse. All he could do was be there for his friend.
Both heads shot up as they heard the footsteps enter command. Aeryn ran over to John, breathing deeply. "Well?" She asked, hope filling her voice. John looked at her for a moment, only to step away and slowly walk towards the view screen in silence.
D'Argo's eyes followed his movements; sure he was correct about their meeting.
Aeryn looked at D'Argo, the worry clear on her face. She looked back to John, still frozen to the spot, his back to her.
"He doesn't want to talk to me now," John said simply. What he heard and saw he would keep to himself, knowing the pain went deeper than he even thought. He needed to find out why he had changed so much before he would try to talk to him again.
John turned and faced them, his hands on his hips. "He's a very bitter man." The sadness for his twin carried in his voice, surprising the Luxan. "I need to know what happened to him in the two cycles I've been gone. It's important." He saw the veiled looks on their faces, unsettled by it. If he didn't get the answer from them, he would see Chiana. She was always willing to talk.
Aeryn saw the determined look on his face. She knew he wouldn't give up until he was satisfied. "Very well, John. D'Argo and I will tell you, but you must swear not to tell.him." Aeryn shocked herself, staggering slightly, catching herself on the wall. She couldn't believe she had called John. him. 'By all that is holy, help me,' she prayed to herself, her eyes closed, feeling the Luxan's hand on her shoulder.
"Aeryn, are you alright?" D'Argo asked, seeing the look on her face.
Aeryn opened them and stared at the Luxan. "No D'Argo, but I will be," she replied to him, continuing, "John do I have your promise?"
John nodded, approaching the console where the two stood. "Just tell me."
xxxxx
John returned to his quarters. He walked into the water closet and picked up some cloths to clean his forehead. The coolness felt good against his head, holding them there a few minutes before removing them to get a closer look at the cut. He saw the bleeding had stopped, but felt a huge headache coming on.
John dropped the cloths and walked back into the room, picking up his flight bag. He was stuffing the bag when he heard a knock on the door. John turned to see Chiana standing at the entrance. He smiled for her, "What's up Chi?"
She walked into the cell, watching him before she spoke. "Where are you going John?" Chiana questioned, looking at his bag and then his face. "This is your home."
"No Pip, just a place to lay your body at night. I'll be around, don't worry," he stated as a fact. Just being in the room and smelling Aeryn's lingering scent was becoming too much for him. The move would be good for him.
"Promise me you're not leaving! If anybody has to go he does. Besides how do we really know he's really who he says he is?" Chiana was panicking, thinking the worst.
John stopped and sighed, turning to her. "As much as I hate to admit it, it's him and you know it. But don't worry Pip, I'm just moving to another cell.it's easier that way," John replied quietly, turning back to his task.
Chiana hugged him from behind. "You know I love you Crichton."
John dropped his bag, her words breaking him, reaching up with both arms, placing his on hers. "Why do I always lose?" He whispered, the tears slowly sliding from his eyes, his heart breaking into a thousand pieces, never to be whole again.
Chiana pulled her arms away and turned him, embracing him tightly in her arms. "Don't hold it in John, let go. It's ok," she said in a soothing voice, caressing the back of his neck. She felt the sobs rack his body, her own following. Chiana eased him down to the bed, rocking him gently in her arms. They were so deep into each other, neither of them noticed Aeryn standing in the doorway, watching.
Aeryn backed out quickly, leaving them alone, choking back her own tears at the sight of someone else comforting him. She felt her back meet with the wall in the corridor, sighing deeply. Aeryn quietly walked away allowing them their privacy.
xxxxx
The council convened quickly, understanding the urgency of this meeting. They watched as they were instructed by the keeper. The head councilmen rose, disappointed by what he had witnessed.
"You were correct to call us immediately. This was not the plan. Perhaps we failed in our preparation. I think it is time to reach the other as we did before. This is the only way I know to reverse the damage. Are we in agreement?"
All heads in the room nodded. "Very good," he said turning to the keeper. "We shall proceed with this course for now. Please keep us informed. it is of utmost importance for this to be successful."
The keeper nodded fully understanding.
xxxxx
D'Argo and John were still talking in command. Aeryn had let D'Argo finish telling him about his twin's past. The subject had become too painful for her, remembering how she had left him, isolated and alone. She decided to leave the room, having no desire to relive it again.
John was leaning on his propped arm, fingering the table, deep in thought. "So.after all that.he still wanted her," John said more as a statement than a question. "Damn, he's been through hell!"
"I would say so, John. She.was the hope he held onto, the only reason I think he managed," D'Argo replied quietly, still sorry about betraying his friend's past.
"I know the feeling, D. She's mine also," John said softly, glancing at the Luxan before rising to his feet. Leaning down, his hands flat on the table, he looked directly into D'Argo's face. "I love her too."
D'Argo stared at him. There was only sincerity in John's eyes, the Luxan having no doubt he spoke the truth. "I am aware of that John, which is why we have a problem. Aeryn can only be with one of you."
"That is a choice I will make! Or maybe I don't want either one of you!" Aeryn stated, standing stiffly in the entrance. "This has become too frelled!" She turned her back on them and marched out of command.
John and D'Argo stood there stunned, not understanding what brought on her response. John started to go after her, but D'Argo grabbed his arm. "Perhaps she needs to be alone for a few arns, John. This hasn't been easy on her either."
John nodded, stepping back. "How do we settle this D?"
D'Argo gripped him on the shoulder. "Perhaps we can't," he said, his shoulders slumped, slowly walking out of command.
"Frell!" The human whispered under his breath, frustrated, feeling he was in a no win situation. Someone would have to lose; he only hoped it wouldn't be him.
xxxxx
Aeryn retreated to her quarters. She palmed the door shut and pulled the privacy curtain wanting to be by herself. There was so much she had to think about and needed rest. She decided to sleep first, hoping when she woke her mind would be clearer.
She lay down on the cot and closed her eyes. Her thoughts flashed vividly through her mind, sleep becoming out of the question. She tried to pushing them away, but gave up when they became worse. Aeryn rose wearily and took her cup from the table. Reaching over to the shelf, she picked up one of the teas Zhaan had given her cycles ago to help her sleep. Mixing the leaves with water, Aeryn sipped it, savoring its comforting warmth, feeling herself relax.
She felt her eyelids getting heavy, returning to her bed. Aeryn laid on her side and pulled the blanket up, her lids closing.
The deep sleep was disturbed now by voices that were familiar to her.
[She was awake, looking around her, knowing she had been in this room before, but not why or when. She stared wide-eyed when she saw the figure appear before her. "Jack!" She uttered in surprise.
"Welcome back, Aeryn Sun," he said smiling. "It has been sometime since we last met."
"You died, I saw." Aeryn stammered, not sure what to believe. John had died, yet he was back.
"Things are not always as they seem, remember that, Aeryn," the Ancient replied, directing her towards a screen. "Please, there is something I must show you."
Aeryn obliged, feeling she was in a trance, hoping any microt from now she would wake in her room. Jack activated the screen. What she saw caused her jaw to drop, her skin growing paler by the microt. The screen turned black. Aeryn staggered back, her breathing jagged. Jack laid his arms on her shoulders, relaxing her with his touch.
"I know the shock you must feel, but it is the truth. This is why we have called you. We need your help. You can see what will happen if we don't reverse this."
"B.but I can't," Aeryn gasped, her heart constricting. What he asked of her was inconceivable.
Jack nodded, understanding. "Answer only one question, Aeryn Sun. Are you prepared to take that risk?"
Aeryn paled, pulling herself out of his grasp. All she could feel was panic as the thoughts sailed through her head.
"The decision is yours," Jack stated. "You have seen the consequences."
Aeryn dropped her head, feeling only hatred for the Ancients. They had done nothing but use them, causing them only pain. She knew it was necessary, but Aeryn had her own conditions.
Looking up at the Ancient she replied, "I will do it as long as you promise me you won't bother us again."
Jack smiled. "Of course, Aeryn Sun. There will be no further need."]