Part 41
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"No, wait..." Aeryn pleaded, as Crais turned to go. "You have behaved impeccably. Crichton and I seem to be the ones who are behaving like a pair of drannits."
Crichton found himself echoing her. "Yeah, Crais, I'm the one who was out of line, with you and with Aeryn. Let's run through this scene one more time, ok?"
Crais looked at them with resignation, "You do not have to apologise to me. I have to learn to fit in yet. It will take time. For all of us. You have all settled into a routine, it is me who is at odds. I will have to review my path."
Crichton shook his head, "I am sorry, Crais. Aeryn is right. I sometimes behave like a drannit, whatever that is."
Aeryn stared in disbelief at Crichton, apologising to Crais of all people? She chuckled, "There is hope for you yet, Erpman."
"Earth, it's Earth," muttered Crichton under his breath.
Crais tried to mimic the name but after a few tries gave up. It sounded worse than using the name Erp.
Crichton looked at him in surprise, he had heard Crais' tries at pronouncing his planet's name, "Crais, you have to tell me something. How is it that you and the others can pronounce the weirdest combinations of sounds but have a problem pronouncing the word Earth?"
With a somewhat long-suffering look, Crais responded "Crichton, "Urth, as you persist in pronouncing it, IS a "weird sound", if I understand that term correctly."
The Human looked at him somewhat incredulously.
"Well, have you ever heard any of us use a word that sounded similar to it?"
The Human wracked his brain and couldn't come up with a positive answer, "Well, it's the closest to the name of my planet any of you have spoken it."
"Crichton, to produce the sound is wearing on my throat. It sounds as if I'm sick. I prefer Erp. It is short and to the point and not a burden on my larynx."
"Suppose I pronounced all your planets incorrectly," replied Crichton with hurt in his voice, "How would you feel about that?"
Crais canted his head, "That would be your prerogative and most understandable. As a matter of fact, you have been mispronouncing most of our planets. We come to expect it of you."
"Now, see here..."
"Yes?"
Crais' calm worked like a rag on bull to Crichton, "Just because I make a few mistakes... it would be nice if you pronounced the name of my planet correctly."
"But it is the sound of someone throwing up. Why would you have people gag on your planet?" Crais was completely nonplussed.
"Just because it is my planet," Crichton raised his voice in frustration.
Crais raised an eyebrow and muttered, "Jhumons."
"And it is Humans, not Jhumons."
Crais observed him calmly as if he was looking at a child.
After a moment, he sighed. "Very well, Crichton. As you point out, it is your planet. As long as you understand that I mean no disrespect to your home planet, I will endeavour to pronounce its name as you wish."
Here he looked dubiously once more at Crichton, hoping to assure himself that the jhumon -the human- was not just toying with him again.
"You really do insist that I sound as though I am being sick each time that I name your planet?"
A look at Crichton confirmed this.
"And, while we are on the subject, could you please enlighten me why you call yourself 'jhu, er, human? You do not call your birthplace 'hume', or 'huma'. Do you?"
Crichton rolled his eyes and tried to come up with an answer which would satisfy Crais, "It means "of Man". It is from an old spelling on Earth."
That confused Crais more, "Then why not call the planet Manea or Mania?"
"That would be worse than gagging on it," chuckled Crichton, "You can't just call the planet "mad"."
Crais nodded wisely, "It would explain your irrational behaviour at times."
Crichton bristled, "I am not irrational!"
Crais had a little smile on "Aeryn's" lips as if he had worked out a joke.
He decided that he had best keep that joke to himself.
Aeryn, meanwhile, had found herself a mute observer to this scene. She was having trouble keeping a straight face. Then she found herself remembering Huey, Louie, and Dewey. And the other John.
Crichton picked that exact moment to turn to her, and caught her suddenly pained expression. He was concerned. The expression on "Crais'" face was one of distress, he could surmise that much, was she in pain? "Are you all right, Aeryn," he asked worriedly.
She nodded while keeping her lips firmly pressed together, she could feel how the mirth was trying to bubble to the surface and it was making her feel flustered.
Crichton was getting more worried and Crais looked at Aeryn. The expression he saw was easily explained and a smile curled as well. He knew what was going on, she must have picked up on his nuances and was now doing her utmost not to laugh. He considered to let it go but then again, Crichton had more than once too often used him as the foil of his jokes.
"Aeryn is fine, Crichton, probably something she ate," his expression was calm, "I am curious. Do all the people on Erp... sorry Urg'th (it sounded worse than the first time) have damaged larynxes when they are trying to pronounce your planet's name? And do they all consider themselves Of-Man? Why not Of-Woman?" He contemplated briefly, "And would those who consider themselves as Of-Woman call themselves Hu-Whoo-man?"
This time "Crais'" face creased up in laughter and Aeryn had to leave the galley, her laughter could be heard outside in the corridor. Ka D'Argo sniggered loudly, Chiana held her mouth and ran after Aeryn while Rygel smiled and his whiskers bristled.
Crichton looked in total confusion at Crais who was the only one who had kept a stoic face, "What's so funny?"
Crais watched the burgeoning confusion on the jhu-, the human's face and decided that he would not press the issue further.
"There is an old Sebacean saying, Crichton. 'Humour, like beauty, finds its beginning and its sanctuary in the mind of the observer."
"Well, that's certainly pithy enough to be Sebacean", the human muttered under his breath.
Crais, with his superior hearing, clearly heard that. However, since he was trying to avoid open hostility (and was even trying to be conciliatory if he could do so without losing too much face), decided to ignore it.
He merely shrugged his shoulders and waited.
"Crais..."
"Yes, Crichton?"
"Since we're being straight with each other, maybe you will answer a question that no one else has been willing to give me an answer to.
"What's a drannit?"
Crais looked at him with a pained expression, "It is not something you want to know the answer to Crichton."
"But I do," there was a tentative pleading in Crichton's voice, "For a long time everyone seems to be using it, especially on me. Everyone knows what it is but no one is willing to tell me. At least you would be honest enough with me to tell me. Wouldn't you?" Crichton tried his utmost to placate Crais.
For the first time he saw Crais embarrassed or even "Aeryn" for that matter. The humour left "Aeryn's" face, "If I intent to stay and travel with you all for a while then you will not want to ask me at this stage what the meaning of the word is. Will it help if I tell you that it is the exact opposite of a Uwumon?"
Revelation dawned on Crichton's face, "Is that why they all left screaming with laughter?"
Crais nodded.
Crichton grew angry, "No. It doesn't help me. I don't even know what a Uwumon is and now I am even more frustrated than ever with another word that seems to be "funny". Tell me Crais, maybe I can work it out." Crichton crossed his arms, tapped his toes and looked at Crais with a cross expression on his face.
Crais looked in desperation around the galley. Rygel was smirking, watching to see how he would get out of that and the Luxan had finally stopped laughing, he was watching too. Crais turned to Crichton and said almost gently, "Crichton, this is a very sensitive subject, and it calls for a certain amount of tact and diplomacy."
He turned to the Hynerian, "Dominar, we have need of your expertise. Kindly explain to Crichton. "What is a drannit?"
Rygel eyes went wide and his mouth dropped open, "Crais you can't do this to me. You started it so you'll have to explain."
"I did not tell the.. Crichton about the Drannit, so, technically I did not start it," Crais said calmly, "Besides, it is a word that originated from your sector."
Rygel bristled, "Yes, it originated in my sector but we did not invent the name nor all its connotations."
Crais' voice was smooth, "Ah but you are so much better with the arts of diplomacy and words Dominar. I am sure that you are the right man to enlighten Crichton on the subject."
"That will not work, Crais, however smoothly you talk and try to flatter me," Rygel left the galley post haste.
Crichton turned back to Crais, who was scowling after the Dominar, "It seems that this only leaves you, Crais. Now will you tell me?"
Crais pursed "Aeryn's" lips, "If I give you my promise that I will tell you at a later date, once we have all got used to the idea that I will be staying with you, will you be willing to drop the matter now?"
Crichton cocked his head, "I will have your word?"
"Upon my Oath," replied Crais.
Crichton decided that this was the closest he had ever come to getting an answer to this question, and maybe he had better settle for this arrangement.
"All right, Crais. Remember, on your honour."
The Sebacean nodded. "You have my word on this."
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Part 42
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Privately, he thought to himself *I will never get used to the idea that I have been aband...that I will be staying for an indefinite period of time on this Leviathan with these...maniacs.*
Then another voice answered *They're not maniacs. Anyway, they're our maniacs.*
Crais whipped his head around to the voice, how was it possible that his thoughts had been picked up? He was not linked to Talyn at the moment and he wasn't aware that any of the others had gained telepathic powers. His looked shocked, "How..."
Then he looked around, and realized that no one had spoken to him. Crichton was still looking expectantly at him, although he was beginning to get a rather odd expression.
Had he imagined the voice? He couldn't see how Talyn might have been communicating with him. It certainly hadn't been the jhu-, the human.
Was it the immense stress he was under that was doing this to him? Everyone onboard Moya was intimately aware of how badly he handled an overload of stress.
He had to maintain control, for his sake and everyone else's.
"Crichton, I will tell you... later... what a Drannit is. Right now I would not be explaining it with the right... emphasis... no, the right... you see, it is difficult to explain but I will tell you."
"Are you all right Crais," Crichton asked worriedly.
"Why shouldn't I be?"
"I don't know. A few microns ago it looked as if you were communicating with Talyn but you don't wear the transponder since you are not in your own body."
"I'm fine," Crais wondered if they were going to analyse each step he would take once he was on board Moya. He sighed deeply.
Crichton grinned, "Would you mind not doing that too often."
"What," frowned Crais.
"Sighing too deeply. It is rather... well... you know..."
"You are speaking in riddles again John Cri..." realisation dawned, "I see what you mean."
Crais tried to rid himself of a vivid mental picture of Officer Aeryn Sun in her leather cutaway vest, her bosom softly heaving. He found the image fascinating, but realized that this was no way to gain Crichton's trust and confidence, and the human was once again beginning to get a rather strange expression on his face.
He gave himself just a bit of a shake, and focused his attention once again on Crichton.
Even the Luxan had left the galley, probably to chase after Chiana.
"We seem to have dispersed the rest of Moya's crew", Crais said.
"We?" Crichton grinned, "It must be your charm, Crais."
A rueful frown appeared on "Aeryn's" face, "I was not aware that I was charming anyone, Crichton."
Crichton sighed, "Can't you stop being serious all the..." He looked up and saw the gentle curve of a smile, it was strangely becoming to Aeryn... he shook his head, this was Crais. Stop thinking. "You do have a sense of humour?"
"Are you surprised, Crichton?"
"As a matter of fact, yes. Your beard must be concealing more than we thought."
Aeryn entered the galley, a grin was still present, "Well done you two. Cleared the galley in no time. So, did you resolve the problem?" Her eyes twinkled.
Crais stood up straighter. Crichton didn't know where to look. Was Crais even aware that by being so... militaristic it did certain things to Aeryn's body and therefore Crichton's eyes and thoughts.
Aeryn had followed Crichton's eye-movements and she suppressed another smile. She caught Crais' eyes, "I think John will be suffering soon from overload."
"Oh?" Crais' expression was neutral, "Anything amiss?"
"Sort of," Aeryn was enjoying this.
Crais turned to Crichton, "Is there something wrong, Crichton?"
Crichton looked at him and saw that Crais had now placed his hands on his back in his normal manner, unfortunately this brought out the features of Aeryn Crichton was very hard trying not to look at. He mumbled an excuse and left the galley.
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Part 43
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Aeryn looked back at Crais, "You did that on purpose."
For a moment Crais looked serious, trying to deny it and then he smiled, "It was... intentional, I admit. Isn't that what he meant by "loosen up"?"
Aeryn smiled broadly, "Yes, I think so. He seemed a bit tight though."
The smile on Bialar's face slowly broadened into a grin, until he actually found himself laughing out loud.
Aeryn found herself joining in. It was likely that neither could have told which of them was more surprised by this scene. The laughter sounded nearly as strange to her as it did to him.
"See, it won't be so bad", Aeryn grinned at him.
Crais suddenly turned serious again. "Perhaps not, Officer Sun. Perhaps not." He grew quiet again.
Aeryn gently caressed his side with her hand.
"You'll see. I think that you're going to find that you belong here more than you know."
"Let's hope so.
"Shall we finish cleaning up? Moya's crew will be safe from poisoning for one more day, at least...I'm sorry, you are no doubt more than caught up with your share of the duties on Moya, officer Sun. I have no right to volunteer you for kitchen duty as well..."
"No, Crais, that's all right. We seem to have chased everyone else out of here. It shouldn't take that long to finish getting things in order here, and I find the company enjoyable."
Crais gave her a smile, "I'll do the washing."
Aeryn pouted and Crais had to laugh at the expression that appeared on his own face, "I have to remember not to pout, that doesn't suit my face."
"And I will be more of military bearing when I see John," she said impishly.
They both laughed, Aeryn's high lilt and Crais' deep rumble filled the kitchen while they set about doing the dishes.
.
Crichton smiled in the corridor when he heard them, maybe life wouldn't be that bad at all with Bialar Crais on board. He turned away and into the corridor, whistling a tune.
A little ways down the corridor, he met D'Argo and Chiana making their way back toward the galley.
"We decided that before we become otherwise occupied, we should finish cleaning up in the galley", the Luxan explained.
Chi cocked her head and laughed impishly at him. "We? I though you were going to just sit and watch and 'keep me company' while I actually did all the work. Maybe it will be fun having Crais around if that's the effect he's going to have on you."
Crichton grinned. "Actually, I don't think your services are needed. I could be wrong, but I think we have an all-Sebacean galley crew on duty."
The Nebari turned to Crichton. "So, you're ok with that, huh?"
D'Argo watched his reaction closely.
"Yeah, you know, I actually think I am. Who'd have thunk it?"
Ka D'Argo looked at Crichton curiously, "Are you sure you are all right John? I did hear you say that Aeryn and Crais are in the galley, cleaning up?"
"Yup." Crichton smiled.
"And you have no problems with that?"
"Nope."
"We are talking about Crais and Aeryn, right? (Crichton nodded) The same Aeryn and Crais you don't like losing out of your sight? (again Crichton nodded) And now you are just letting them do the dishes... together? No one there?"
Crichton smiled, "They are even laughing together."
D'Argo rolled his eyes, "Maybe Crais is right and Jhumons are just born mad."
"Have I ever told you about some of the things I did as a kid to avoid doing the dishes? Why, there was the time..."
As his Luxan friend started looking more and more strangely at him, Crichton found it harder and harder to keep a straight face. Finally he gave up, and grinned. "Never mind, big fella, just take my word for it. They're doing dishes, not playing house. It'll be all right. Keep them outta trouble for a little while at least."
Chiana looked Crichton in the eye, in fact, moving closer in to him. "You sure of that, Crichton?" Confidant that he really meant what he had just said, she grabbed Ka D'Argo's giant hand and began to pull him back down the corridor.
"Well, alright then, let's get back to minding our own business. It sounds like everyone here can take care of themselves."
After a backwards glance at the human, D'Argo let himself be led away by the little Nebari.
Crichton found himself questioning for a moment whether he really did mean this, then decided that, yup, he really did. At least, he was finally willing to admit to himself that he had to let the two of them be alone together sometime, and now with them focused on kp duty was as good a time as any.
He headed off to what they all called the 'terrace'. He had a sudden need to see the stars.
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Part 44
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Meanwhile Crais and Aeryn were busy in the galley. They worked in silence. Aeryn glanced over at Crais. There was a calm on her own face that she found amusing. She normally hated doing the washing up yet Crais didn't seem to be bothered by it.
He felt her eyes on him and without pausing in his work he asked, "Why are you looking at me, Aeryn?"
"You have eyes in the side of your head," she was surprised.
"No but I was right in assuming that you were looking at me?"
She smiled, "Yes, I was. I was wondering, you do not mind doing the washing-up?"
"Why would I mind? I had promised to do my part of the duties and if that includes washing-up, then so be it. On Talyn there are normally no more than a couple of plates if I endeavour to try my hand at cooking again, unlike the number of plates used here. I will have to get used to it and now is just as good as ever."
She put the dried dishes and utensils away while he dried his hands, "How many times do you cook Crais? Is your cooking really that bad?"
His mouth twitched, he didn't like admitting not being any good at something, even cooking, "The times I tried, the flavours were not what I expected them to be and I still have a tendency to undercook or burn them. Still trying to get it right."
"Well, cooking isn't one of my talents, either. That was a servitor's work. As a prowler pilot, I expected to report to the mess and have my food properly prepared and presented to me.
"The first cycle aboard Moya, we were glad enough just to have sufficient food cubes, at least all of us save Crichton. He never did get used to them. Sometimes we half-starved."
She thought to herself. *back in the days when you were hunting us*
Crais said nothing but was sure he was correctly interpreting the unspoken thought.
"We still depend on them on occasion-when it's been awhile between planet-fall, when things are too hectic and nobody can be spared for a luxury such as a prepared meal.
"But we've been lucky. We still have more than enough credits to buy fresh provisions when we can find it, and Zhaan and Chiana both are -Zhaan was- talented in this regard."
Aeryn fell silent. She found herself reliving her meeting with the priest of Lachmon. Could it have been just yesterday that had happened?
"Crais?"
He quietly met her gaze and waited for her to resume speaking.
"I took a terrible chance. If any of us come to harm because of it...
"What's done is done is done and this case, if they have been truthful about it, it can be undone. We should be getting near the time to find out if they have been truthful to you."
He took a deep breath and Aeryn could appreciate Crichton's reaction, Crais had not noticed and continued, "No harm, as far as we know, has come to us. As a matter of fact, it did what it was supposed to do. It gave us insight only maybe not as you had wanted."
Crais sat down at the table and folded Aeryn's hands on the table, absentmindedly he admired the delicate hands, "It also produced the effect that I had to rethink what to do about Talyn, it produced the need for me to stay on board Moya.
He looked up to her and smiled, "No offence, Aeryn but I do hope it is soon. I want my own body back."
A small smile started to show on "Crais'" face, and then spread over it. "Aeryn" noted how his face almost lit up; he nearly looked like a different person. He was surprised to find himself thinking that this strong, intelligent, good-humoured man was someone he would be interested to know.
Aeryn responded, "I will miss this body. It is strong, and a pleasure to inhabit. I hope to remember what you taught me. Will you really welcome me as your student in the Vah'ni Panthak discipline? But yes, I will be glad to have my own body back."
She grinned even more broadly. "I think that I can speak for Crichton, that he will too."
Aeryn's face matched her grin for grin.
"Of course, you are welcome. I look forward to it. Even Crichton is welcome to join us. I meant what I said earlier."
Aeryn looked at 'herself'. "I'm glad this happened, I think. No, I know that I am. However this turns out, I've learned much. As you said, maybe not exactly what I expected to.
"I'll be glad that it's over, though."
She found herself confessing weakness, something she would never have done just a few short cycles ago.
"I'm so tired, I think I may even be able to sleep tonight."
Aeryn moved next to Crais and briefly rested her head on his shoulder, then straightened herself back into that familiar ramrod-straight military posture. She couldn't resist smiling at the thought of John's reaction to it.
"Shall we go and find Crichton?"
Crais nodded and sighed deeply, "Yes let us find Crichton." He stood up from the table and stood next to Aeryn, "Have you got any idea how much time has passed since the actual transformation?"
Aeryn shook her head, "I have no idea but the time must be drawing near."
They walked out of the galley and asked Pilot where they might find Crichton.
~He's on the Terrace~
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"No, wait..." Aeryn pleaded, as Crais turned to go. "You have behaved impeccably. Crichton and I seem to be the ones who are behaving like a pair of drannits."
Crichton found himself echoing her. "Yeah, Crais, I'm the one who was out of line, with you and with Aeryn. Let's run through this scene one more time, ok?"
Crais looked at them with resignation, "You do not have to apologise to me. I have to learn to fit in yet. It will take time. For all of us. You have all settled into a routine, it is me who is at odds. I will have to review my path."
Crichton shook his head, "I am sorry, Crais. Aeryn is right. I sometimes behave like a drannit, whatever that is."
Aeryn stared in disbelief at Crichton, apologising to Crais of all people? She chuckled, "There is hope for you yet, Erpman."
"Earth, it's Earth," muttered Crichton under his breath.
Crais tried to mimic the name but after a few tries gave up. It sounded worse than using the name Erp.
Crichton looked at him in surprise, he had heard Crais' tries at pronouncing his planet's name, "Crais, you have to tell me something. How is it that you and the others can pronounce the weirdest combinations of sounds but have a problem pronouncing the word Earth?"
With a somewhat long-suffering look, Crais responded "Crichton, "Urth, as you persist in pronouncing it, IS a "weird sound", if I understand that term correctly."
The Human looked at him somewhat incredulously.
"Well, have you ever heard any of us use a word that sounded similar to it?"
The Human wracked his brain and couldn't come up with a positive answer, "Well, it's the closest to the name of my planet any of you have spoken it."
"Crichton, to produce the sound is wearing on my throat. It sounds as if I'm sick. I prefer Erp. It is short and to the point and not a burden on my larynx."
"Suppose I pronounced all your planets incorrectly," replied Crichton with hurt in his voice, "How would you feel about that?"
Crais canted his head, "That would be your prerogative and most understandable. As a matter of fact, you have been mispronouncing most of our planets. We come to expect it of you."
"Now, see here..."
"Yes?"
Crais' calm worked like a rag on bull to Crichton, "Just because I make a few mistakes... it would be nice if you pronounced the name of my planet correctly."
"But it is the sound of someone throwing up. Why would you have people gag on your planet?" Crais was completely nonplussed.
"Just because it is my planet," Crichton raised his voice in frustration.
Crais raised an eyebrow and muttered, "Jhumons."
"And it is Humans, not Jhumons."
Crais observed him calmly as if he was looking at a child.
After a moment, he sighed. "Very well, Crichton. As you point out, it is your planet. As long as you understand that I mean no disrespect to your home planet, I will endeavour to pronounce its name as you wish."
Here he looked dubiously once more at Crichton, hoping to assure himself that the jhumon -the human- was not just toying with him again.
"You really do insist that I sound as though I am being sick each time that I name your planet?"
A look at Crichton confirmed this.
"And, while we are on the subject, could you please enlighten me why you call yourself 'jhu, er, human? You do not call your birthplace 'hume', or 'huma'. Do you?"
Crichton rolled his eyes and tried to come up with an answer which would satisfy Crais, "It means "of Man". It is from an old spelling on Earth."
That confused Crais more, "Then why not call the planet Manea or Mania?"
"That would be worse than gagging on it," chuckled Crichton, "You can't just call the planet "mad"."
Crais nodded wisely, "It would explain your irrational behaviour at times."
Crichton bristled, "I am not irrational!"
Crais had a little smile on "Aeryn's" lips as if he had worked out a joke.
He decided that he had best keep that joke to himself.
Aeryn, meanwhile, had found herself a mute observer to this scene. She was having trouble keeping a straight face. Then she found herself remembering Huey, Louie, and Dewey. And the other John.
Crichton picked that exact moment to turn to her, and caught her suddenly pained expression. He was concerned. The expression on "Crais'" face was one of distress, he could surmise that much, was she in pain? "Are you all right, Aeryn," he asked worriedly.
She nodded while keeping her lips firmly pressed together, she could feel how the mirth was trying to bubble to the surface and it was making her feel flustered.
Crichton was getting more worried and Crais looked at Aeryn. The expression he saw was easily explained and a smile curled as well. He knew what was going on, she must have picked up on his nuances and was now doing her utmost not to laugh. He considered to let it go but then again, Crichton had more than once too often used him as the foil of his jokes.
"Aeryn is fine, Crichton, probably something she ate," his expression was calm, "I am curious. Do all the people on Erp... sorry Urg'th (it sounded worse than the first time) have damaged larynxes when they are trying to pronounce your planet's name? And do they all consider themselves Of-Man? Why not Of-Woman?" He contemplated briefly, "And would those who consider themselves as Of-Woman call themselves Hu-Whoo-man?"
This time "Crais'" face creased up in laughter and Aeryn had to leave the galley, her laughter could be heard outside in the corridor. Ka D'Argo sniggered loudly, Chiana held her mouth and ran after Aeryn while Rygel smiled and his whiskers bristled.
Crichton looked in total confusion at Crais who was the only one who had kept a stoic face, "What's so funny?"
Crais watched the burgeoning confusion on the jhu-, the human's face and decided that he would not press the issue further.
"There is an old Sebacean saying, Crichton. 'Humour, like beauty, finds its beginning and its sanctuary in the mind of the observer."
"Well, that's certainly pithy enough to be Sebacean", the human muttered under his breath.
Crais, with his superior hearing, clearly heard that. However, since he was trying to avoid open hostility (and was even trying to be conciliatory if he could do so without losing too much face), decided to ignore it.
He merely shrugged his shoulders and waited.
"Crais..."
"Yes, Crichton?"
"Since we're being straight with each other, maybe you will answer a question that no one else has been willing to give me an answer to.
"What's a drannit?"
Crais looked at him with a pained expression, "It is not something you want to know the answer to Crichton."
"But I do," there was a tentative pleading in Crichton's voice, "For a long time everyone seems to be using it, especially on me. Everyone knows what it is but no one is willing to tell me. At least you would be honest enough with me to tell me. Wouldn't you?" Crichton tried his utmost to placate Crais.
For the first time he saw Crais embarrassed or even "Aeryn" for that matter. The humour left "Aeryn's" face, "If I intent to stay and travel with you all for a while then you will not want to ask me at this stage what the meaning of the word is. Will it help if I tell you that it is the exact opposite of a Uwumon?"
Revelation dawned on Crichton's face, "Is that why they all left screaming with laughter?"
Crais nodded.
Crichton grew angry, "No. It doesn't help me. I don't even know what a Uwumon is and now I am even more frustrated than ever with another word that seems to be "funny". Tell me Crais, maybe I can work it out." Crichton crossed his arms, tapped his toes and looked at Crais with a cross expression on his face.
Crais looked in desperation around the galley. Rygel was smirking, watching to see how he would get out of that and the Luxan had finally stopped laughing, he was watching too. Crais turned to Crichton and said almost gently, "Crichton, this is a very sensitive subject, and it calls for a certain amount of tact and diplomacy."
He turned to the Hynerian, "Dominar, we have need of your expertise. Kindly explain to Crichton. "What is a drannit?"
Rygel eyes went wide and his mouth dropped open, "Crais you can't do this to me. You started it so you'll have to explain."
"I did not tell the.. Crichton about the Drannit, so, technically I did not start it," Crais said calmly, "Besides, it is a word that originated from your sector."
Rygel bristled, "Yes, it originated in my sector but we did not invent the name nor all its connotations."
Crais' voice was smooth, "Ah but you are so much better with the arts of diplomacy and words Dominar. I am sure that you are the right man to enlighten Crichton on the subject."
"That will not work, Crais, however smoothly you talk and try to flatter me," Rygel left the galley post haste.
Crichton turned back to Crais, who was scowling after the Dominar, "It seems that this only leaves you, Crais. Now will you tell me?"
Crais pursed "Aeryn's" lips, "If I give you my promise that I will tell you at a later date, once we have all got used to the idea that I will be staying with you, will you be willing to drop the matter now?"
Crichton cocked his head, "I will have your word?"
"Upon my Oath," replied Crais.
Crichton decided that this was the closest he had ever come to getting an answer to this question, and maybe he had better settle for this arrangement.
"All right, Crais. Remember, on your honour."
The Sebacean nodded. "You have my word on this."
.
Part 42
.
Privately, he thought to himself *I will never get used to the idea that I have been aband...that I will be staying for an indefinite period of time on this Leviathan with these...maniacs.*
Then another voice answered *They're not maniacs. Anyway, they're our maniacs.*
Crais whipped his head around to the voice, how was it possible that his thoughts had been picked up? He was not linked to Talyn at the moment and he wasn't aware that any of the others had gained telepathic powers. His looked shocked, "How..."
Then he looked around, and realized that no one had spoken to him. Crichton was still looking expectantly at him, although he was beginning to get a rather odd expression.
Had he imagined the voice? He couldn't see how Talyn might have been communicating with him. It certainly hadn't been the jhu-, the human.
Was it the immense stress he was under that was doing this to him? Everyone onboard Moya was intimately aware of how badly he handled an overload of stress.
He had to maintain control, for his sake and everyone else's.
"Crichton, I will tell you... later... what a Drannit is. Right now I would not be explaining it with the right... emphasis... no, the right... you see, it is difficult to explain but I will tell you."
"Are you all right Crais," Crichton asked worriedly.
"Why shouldn't I be?"
"I don't know. A few microns ago it looked as if you were communicating with Talyn but you don't wear the transponder since you are not in your own body."
"I'm fine," Crais wondered if they were going to analyse each step he would take once he was on board Moya. He sighed deeply.
Crichton grinned, "Would you mind not doing that too often."
"What," frowned Crais.
"Sighing too deeply. It is rather... well... you know..."
"You are speaking in riddles again John Cri..." realisation dawned, "I see what you mean."
Crais tried to rid himself of a vivid mental picture of Officer Aeryn Sun in her leather cutaway vest, her bosom softly heaving. He found the image fascinating, but realized that this was no way to gain Crichton's trust and confidence, and the human was once again beginning to get a rather strange expression on his face.
He gave himself just a bit of a shake, and focused his attention once again on Crichton.
Even the Luxan had left the galley, probably to chase after Chiana.
"We seem to have dispersed the rest of Moya's crew", Crais said.
"We?" Crichton grinned, "It must be your charm, Crais."
A rueful frown appeared on "Aeryn's" face, "I was not aware that I was charming anyone, Crichton."
Crichton sighed, "Can't you stop being serious all the..." He looked up and saw the gentle curve of a smile, it was strangely becoming to Aeryn... he shook his head, this was Crais. Stop thinking. "You do have a sense of humour?"
"Are you surprised, Crichton?"
"As a matter of fact, yes. Your beard must be concealing more than we thought."
Aeryn entered the galley, a grin was still present, "Well done you two. Cleared the galley in no time. So, did you resolve the problem?" Her eyes twinkled.
Crais stood up straighter. Crichton didn't know where to look. Was Crais even aware that by being so... militaristic it did certain things to Aeryn's body and therefore Crichton's eyes and thoughts.
Aeryn had followed Crichton's eye-movements and she suppressed another smile. She caught Crais' eyes, "I think John will be suffering soon from overload."
"Oh?" Crais' expression was neutral, "Anything amiss?"
"Sort of," Aeryn was enjoying this.
Crais turned to Crichton, "Is there something wrong, Crichton?"
Crichton looked at him and saw that Crais had now placed his hands on his back in his normal manner, unfortunately this brought out the features of Aeryn Crichton was very hard trying not to look at. He mumbled an excuse and left the galley.
.
Part 43
.
Aeryn looked back at Crais, "You did that on purpose."
For a moment Crais looked serious, trying to deny it and then he smiled, "It was... intentional, I admit. Isn't that what he meant by "loosen up"?"
Aeryn smiled broadly, "Yes, I think so. He seemed a bit tight though."
The smile on Bialar's face slowly broadened into a grin, until he actually found himself laughing out loud.
Aeryn found herself joining in. It was likely that neither could have told which of them was more surprised by this scene. The laughter sounded nearly as strange to her as it did to him.
"See, it won't be so bad", Aeryn grinned at him.
Crais suddenly turned serious again. "Perhaps not, Officer Sun. Perhaps not." He grew quiet again.
Aeryn gently caressed his side with her hand.
"You'll see. I think that you're going to find that you belong here more than you know."
"Let's hope so.
"Shall we finish cleaning up? Moya's crew will be safe from poisoning for one more day, at least...I'm sorry, you are no doubt more than caught up with your share of the duties on Moya, officer Sun. I have no right to volunteer you for kitchen duty as well..."
"No, Crais, that's all right. We seem to have chased everyone else out of here. It shouldn't take that long to finish getting things in order here, and I find the company enjoyable."
Crais gave her a smile, "I'll do the washing."
Aeryn pouted and Crais had to laugh at the expression that appeared on his own face, "I have to remember not to pout, that doesn't suit my face."
"And I will be more of military bearing when I see John," she said impishly.
They both laughed, Aeryn's high lilt and Crais' deep rumble filled the kitchen while they set about doing the dishes.
.
Crichton smiled in the corridor when he heard them, maybe life wouldn't be that bad at all with Bialar Crais on board. He turned away and into the corridor, whistling a tune.
A little ways down the corridor, he met D'Argo and Chiana making their way back toward the galley.
"We decided that before we become otherwise occupied, we should finish cleaning up in the galley", the Luxan explained.
Chi cocked her head and laughed impishly at him. "We? I though you were going to just sit and watch and 'keep me company' while I actually did all the work. Maybe it will be fun having Crais around if that's the effect he's going to have on you."
Crichton grinned. "Actually, I don't think your services are needed. I could be wrong, but I think we have an all-Sebacean galley crew on duty."
The Nebari turned to Crichton. "So, you're ok with that, huh?"
D'Argo watched his reaction closely.
"Yeah, you know, I actually think I am. Who'd have thunk it?"
Ka D'Argo looked at Crichton curiously, "Are you sure you are all right John? I did hear you say that Aeryn and Crais are in the galley, cleaning up?"
"Yup." Crichton smiled.
"And you have no problems with that?"
"Nope."
"We are talking about Crais and Aeryn, right? (Crichton nodded) The same Aeryn and Crais you don't like losing out of your sight? (again Crichton nodded) And now you are just letting them do the dishes... together? No one there?"
Crichton smiled, "They are even laughing together."
D'Argo rolled his eyes, "Maybe Crais is right and Jhumons are just born mad."
"Have I ever told you about some of the things I did as a kid to avoid doing the dishes? Why, there was the time..."
As his Luxan friend started looking more and more strangely at him, Crichton found it harder and harder to keep a straight face. Finally he gave up, and grinned. "Never mind, big fella, just take my word for it. They're doing dishes, not playing house. It'll be all right. Keep them outta trouble for a little while at least."
Chiana looked Crichton in the eye, in fact, moving closer in to him. "You sure of that, Crichton?" Confidant that he really meant what he had just said, she grabbed Ka D'Argo's giant hand and began to pull him back down the corridor.
"Well, alright then, let's get back to minding our own business. It sounds like everyone here can take care of themselves."
After a backwards glance at the human, D'Argo let himself be led away by the little Nebari.
Crichton found himself questioning for a moment whether he really did mean this, then decided that, yup, he really did. At least, he was finally willing to admit to himself that he had to let the two of them be alone together sometime, and now with them focused on kp duty was as good a time as any.
He headed off to what they all called the 'terrace'. He had a sudden need to see the stars.
.
Part 44
.
Meanwhile Crais and Aeryn were busy in the galley. They worked in silence. Aeryn glanced over at Crais. There was a calm on her own face that she found amusing. She normally hated doing the washing up yet Crais didn't seem to be bothered by it.
He felt her eyes on him and without pausing in his work he asked, "Why are you looking at me, Aeryn?"
"You have eyes in the side of your head," she was surprised.
"No but I was right in assuming that you were looking at me?"
She smiled, "Yes, I was. I was wondering, you do not mind doing the washing-up?"
"Why would I mind? I had promised to do my part of the duties and if that includes washing-up, then so be it. On Talyn there are normally no more than a couple of plates if I endeavour to try my hand at cooking again, unlike the number of plates used here. I will have to get used to it and now is just as good as ever."
She put the dried dishes and utensils away while he dried his hands, "How many times do you cook Crais? Is your cooking really that bad?"
His mouth twitched, he didn't like admitting not being any good at something, even cooking, "The times I tried, the flavours were not what I expected them to be and I still have a tendency to undercook or burn them. Still trying to get it right."
"Well, cooking isn't one of my talents, either. That was a servitor's work. As a prowler pilot, I expected to report to the mess and have my food properly prepared and presented to me.
"The first cycle aboard Moya, we were glad enough just to have sufficient food cubes, at least all of us save Crichton. He never did get used to them. Sometimes we half-starved."
She thought to herself. *back in the days when you were hunting us*
Crais said nothing but was sure he was correctly interpreting the unspoken thought.
"We still depend on them on occasion-when it's been awhile between planet-fall, when things are too hectic and nobody can be spared for a luxury such as a prepared meal.
"But we've been lucky. We still have more than enough credits to buy fresh provisions when we can find it, and Zhaan and Chiana both are -Zhaan was- talented in this regard."
Aeryn fell silent. She found herself reliving her meeting with the priest of Lachmon. Could it have been just yesterday that had happened?
"Crais?"
He quietly met her gaze and waited for her to resume speaking.
"I took a terrible chance. If any of us come to harm because of it...
"What's done is done is done and this case, if they have been truthful about it, it can be undone. We should be getting near the time to find out if they have been truthful to you."
He took a deep breath and Aeryn could appreciate Crichton's reaction, Crais had not noticed and continued, "No harm, as far as we know, has come to us. As a matter of fact, it did what it was supposed to do. It gave us insight only maybe not as you had wanted."
Crais sat down at the table and folded Aeryn's hands on the table, absentmindedly he admired the delicate hands, "It also produced the effect that I had to rethink what to do about Talyn, it produced the need for me to stay on board Moya.
He looked up to her and smiled, "No offence, Aeryn but I do hope it is soon. I want my own body back."
A small smile started to show on "Crais'" face, and then spread over it. "Aeryn" noted how his face almost lit up; he nearly looked like a different person. He was surprised to find himself thinking that this strong, intelligent, good-humoured man was someone he would be interested to know.
Aeryn responded, "I will miss this body. It is strong, and a pleasure to inhabit. I hope to remember what you taught me. Will you really welcome me as your student in the Vah'ni Panthak discipline? But yes, I will be glad to have my own body back."
She grinned even more broadly. "I think that I can speak for Crichton, that he will too."
Aeryn's face matched her grin for grin.
"Of course, you are welcome. I look forward to it. Even Crichton is welcome to join us. I meant what I said earlier."
Aeryn looked at 'herself'. "I'm glad this happened, I think. No, I know that I am. However this turns out, I've learned much. As you said, maybe not exactly what I expected to.
"I'll be glad that it's over, though."
She found herself confessing weakness, something she would never have done just a few short cycles ago.
"I'm so tired, I think I may even be able to sleep tonight."
Aeryn moved next to Crais and briefly rested her head on his shoulder, then straightened herself back into that familiar ramrod-straight military posture. She couldn't resist smiling at the thought of John's reaction to it.
"Shall we go and find Crichton?"
Crais nodded and sighed deeply, "Yes let us find Crichton." He stood up from the table and stood next to Aeryn, "Have you got any idea how much time has passed since the actual transformation?"
Aeryn shook her head, "I have no idea but the time must be drawing near."
They walked out of the galley and asked Pilot where they might find Crichton.
~He's on the Terrace~