Part 46
Mulder awakens with his head in someone's lap. "Scully?", he asks in hesitation.
"Sshh", Scully replies. "Its me Mulder. You've had a minor head trauma and you're going to have a really bad headache." She brushes the hair away from his forehead.
Mulder attempts to get up but winces in pain from the large lump on the back of his head. "Going to? I already feel like I got hit in the head with a two by four. Where are we Scully?"
"Mulder, we're back in that hut again, but they haven't tied us up this time and there is something I've got to tell you", says Scully sighing.
"What? You sound confused", asks Mulder concerned.
"Mulder I am confused, because what I just saw defies explanation in my book", says Scully rolling her eyes to stare at the bamboo ceiling of the hut.
"It sounds right up my alley", says Mulder. "Actually I've got something to tell you too."
Scully licks her lips before beginning. "I was at the cave typing our report and wondering if you had been abducted when you came racing out of the rain. You told me that you had found something that you wanted me to see." Scully glances down to see Mulder with his eyes wide open staring at her in astonishment. "The problem was that during our argument concerning if I should go see whatever immediately......you became insistent and for a moment I thought you were going to turn abusive." Mulder frowns at her and tries to interrupt her. "But wait a minute Mulder, when I tried to examine you for an injury you said 'don't touch me' and then the ultimate happened."
"That was not me Scully, you've got to believe me. I would never pass up you touching me", says Mulder.
Scully smiles out of amusement. "Thats just it Mulder, I can't explain it, but the next thing I knew you......wasn't you. The man I loved shifted into that bounty hunter and well, I just had my third experience of running into your double. I'm just glad he wasn't interested in me like Eddie VanBluntz was, because he would have gotten a lot further than he did."
Mulder has sat up immediately. "Did he hurt you?", he asks grasping her shoulders with a look of concern bordering with rage mirroring from his eyes.
"No, of course not. I demanded where you were and he said the only way to help you was for me to go with him", replies Scully staring back at him reassuringly.
"So he used me to trick you", snarls Mulder dropping his hands from her shoulders and facing forward in anger.
"Mulder, we've been through this too many times. Just forget it and try to think of a way out of this", says Scully.
"Well they obviously haven't figured out that we're really resourceful", says Mulder slowly getting to his feet.
"What were you going to tell me Mulder?", asks Scully still sitting cross-legged on the ground.
"When I went for that walk I got a little curious Scully and you won't believe what I found", says Mulder turning to look at her.
"Don't even tell me an alien Mulder", says Scully with laughter in her voice.
"Not exactly", says Mulder running his hand through his hair. "But I do they think they are here and they're using this island as a meeting place between themselves and those that are cooperating with them. What we saw in that lab is connected with this tribe. When I came out here by myself all of their costumes were hung in this very hut on hangers....hangers Scully, since when do tribesmen own plastic blue hangers? Scully, these natives, have they taken off their masks at all since we've been here? Ask yourself that question and then tell me that there is no possibility that they couldn't be extraterrestrials that have taken advantage of a myth to disguise their experimental research on human genetics?"
"Mulder......", moans Scully.
"But what if Scully? What if we've stumbled upon a colony of aliens that are here for the purpose of learning everything they can about human anatomy, physiology and psychology?", says Mulder waving his hands around in the air.
"But for what purpose Mulder? If what you're saying is true, why would they bother abducting people like in Oregon? Besides, how many people do you see running around on this island that they can use for test subjects? I mean this isn't exactly Bermuda or the Bahamas for that matter. People aren't cruising down to Lani Lai to spend a relaxing vacation on the beach. It isn't in the tourist books Mulder because no one recommends coming here."
"Thats exactly why this location is perfect Scully for the government to cooperate with them. Men in our Pentagon could be providing unwilling test subjects for this project and we've fallen smack into it. How much do you bet that the helicopter won't even show up for us tomorrow morning?"
"Mulder, don't say that. Of course he is coming for us, we paid him to pick us up after five days", says Scully rising to her feet.
"How can you explain that building in the middle of the jungle? A freezer with barrels full of black oil that crawls faster than an ant colony Scully? We had to crawl through the ceiling to escape from a puddle that looked like molasses but could crawl up shelving. Now would you please elaborate on what your theory is for me", says Mulder shaking his head and walking toward the flap of the tent not seeing a thin wire running along the opening.
"I can't explain it Mulder. I don't have any theories. For the first time working on the X-Files with you I am totally dumbfounded with what is going on here. All I know is we've go to escape this hut and head out to the beach tonight. Maybe you can send up some flares or something. I only wish we could use our cell phones or the radio to call for the Coast Guard or someone", says Scully just as Mulder's foot hits the wire. He flies backwards and slams into the wall beside her and slides down.
Part 47
"Mulder!", she exclaims dropping to her knees beside him. She taps his cheek lightly. "Are you all right?"
"Yeah", says Mulder weakly. "Now please tell me how tribal members have discovered the benefits of electricity Scully."
"I can't.......okay you're right Mulder. There is something going on here and its not just human sacrifice. That door is wired so we won't escape. Are you sure you're all right Mulder?"
"Of course I am Scully", smiles Mulder. "I've always wondered if I should wear my hair a little more spiky. How does it look?" He pats the top of his head.
"You look like a porcupine", says Scully spitting in her hand and trying to flatten it.
"Eww, you spit on me", says Mulder.
"You sound like a girl", says Scully. "Now quit whining and help me get us out of here."
"And how do you propose doing that Agent Scully", asks Mulder crossing his arms across his chest and giving her a challenging look.
Scully gets up and walks over to the edge of the hut and picks us a couple of small bowls. She walks back over to Mulder and sits down beside him.
"Scully, you're going to cook for me?", says Mulder jokingly.
"No, start digging Mulder", says Scully.
"You've got to be kidding", says Mulder staring down at the bowl.
"No, I'm not Mulder. Do you have a better idea?", asks Scully starting to dig a hole next to the hut's wall.
"No, but didn't I see this in an episode of Hogan's Heroes", asks Mulder.
"You've got way too much time on your hands Mulder", says Scully throwing dirt over her shoulder.
"Yes....Mary Ann", says Mulder.
"I thought you wanted me to be a Ginger", says Scully.
"Yes, but Ginger was an airhead Scully and Mary Ann had everything going for her, a great body and brains. Ginger would never have come up with a plan like this." He takes a bowl of dirt tossing it over his shoulder. He leans over and gives Scully a kiss on the cheek and continues digging. Scully gives a little smile.
Part 48
"So you're really from the FBI?", asks Stan as he adjusts controls of the plane.
"Yes", says Skinner calmly from the copilots seat. He glances in the back to see the Lone Gunmen who are huddled around a window looking out. Skinner rolls his eyes and faces forward again.
"I can't believe I'm flying feds in my little plane", exclaims Stan grinning. "I mean I never served in the military and now, well I feel like I've finally done a small part in serving my country."
"Don't let it overwhelm you Stan", says Skinner. "We needed to get out there somehow and I was at the point where if I couldn't get a flight I was going to rent a powerboat and drive out there myself."
"Oh, well its just that I grew up watching FBI shows. My Dad was a cop and I always thought it was all so exciting", continues Stan. "What do you have to go out there for?"
"We're looking for two missing agents", replies Skinner taking a sip of coffee out of a cup.
"I didn't think anyone would want to go to Lani Lai", says Stan. "I mean except for those two loony honeymooners that Craig told me about. Man, who in their right minds would want to go there for a romantic getaway. The place is infested in bugs, snakes not to mention the downright spooky myth about the green headed natives."
"That was not a honeymooning couple, those were my agents Dana Scully and Fox Mulder", replies Skinner slightly annoyed. "What do you mean green headed natives?"
"Ah, its just a legend, thats all", replies Stan. "Are you sure that your agents aren't really on their honeymoon? I was at the hanger the day that the dude called from DC and I saw Craig pull off a copy of a marriage certificate off of the fax machine. Besides, Craig said that when he dropped them off they looked kinda cozy if you know what I mean." Stan gives a sideways glance at Skinner.
"Have you ever heard of being bamboozled Stan", asks Skinner?
"Is that something to do with bamboo furniture?", asks Stan.
"No, I'm saying that agent Mulder tricked your friend into getting a honeymoon discount on his helicopter rental. He's famous for turning around something so it works to his advantage. What you saw was a couple of agents doing what they do best, undercover work."
"Undercover work? Wow, now this is like tv. You mean they were armed and everything? Craig didn't even know it?", exclaims Stan.
"Well, officially this isn't a case", says Skinner looking away. "Not one that I assigned anyway, but their rescue is my responsibility and I've got to see to it. But anyway, yes I suppose most likely if they were anticipating on running into trouble then, yes I would have to say that they were armed at the time of the flight."
"Oh, Craig will get a kick out of this", says Stan.
"He already knows, but he has been instructed to keep this quiet as you will", says Skinner with a warning in the tone of his voice.
"Sure, sure whatever the government wants me to do I'll do", says Stan. He flips a switch and starts to get up.
"What the hell are you doing?", asks Skinner grabbing his elbow and forcing him to sit down.
"I've got to get the parachutes out of the overhead compartment man", says Stan getting up again. "Relax, its on auto pilot."
"Parachutes!", yells Langly from the back. "You said you knew how to fly this plane."
"I do", says Stan. "But I can't land on an uninhabited island that doesn't have a runway! You four are going to have to glide in." He opens up a cabinet and pulls out four backpacks and hands one to Skinner who reluctantly takes one.
"I've parachuted in the Marines. Matter of fact thats how they got me into Nam, but you can't tell me that these three are going to be able to do it", says Skinner.
"We'll do anything that will help Mulder and Scully", says Byers slipping the straps over his arms and snapping the buckle in place.
"Speak for yourself", says Langly. "I'll go back until Craig can bring me in on the chopper. I'm not jumping, thats it."
Frohike stares at the parachute in his lap. "I never thought I would be doing this, but if I die trying to save Dana its worth it", he says as he slips his own on and fastens it. Skinner rolls his eyes at the melodrama that is playing out.
"Are you guys sure you want to go through with this", asks Skinner. "Ringo......I mean Langly has already stated his reluctance to jump. Maybe the three of you should head back and wait for me to return with the agents. You're civilians and I can't guarantee that the government will pick up any medical bills you may incur if you get injured."
"Don't try to talk us out of this Mr. Skinner", says Byers holding down Langly as Frohike slips the parachute on him. "We know why we came and we're not going home until we see Mulder and Scully with our own eyes. You may need backup and we're all you've got."
Skinner nods reluctantly. He gets to his feet. "Okay, once we reach where we are flying directly over the island we will jump out together. Wait about ten seconds or so before you pull this ripcord." He points to his cord on his own parachute. "If that does not immediately open, pull this one." He points to another one.
"What happens if that doesn't open?", asks Frohike tucking his glasses in his pocket. Skinner raises an eyebrow at him.
"Well, um lets go Langly", says Frohike removing Langly's glasses and tucking them in his Hawaiian t-shirt pocket.
"You can't force me to jump", yells Langly struggling as Frohike and Byers push him over to the door where Stan has opened it.
"Come on Langly, don't be so immature. It will be over before you know it", says Byers.
"You aren't going to get me to jump", says Langly digging his feet into the carpeting. Skinner stands directly behind them.
"We're over the island. Its now or never", says Stan. "You guys have to jump within the next twenty seconds or so.
"No!", screams Langly.
"Just hold your nose", says Skinner giving him a huge shove. Langly falls out of the plane. "AHHHHHHHH!!!"
Byers and Frohike look at each other and then nod. They jump out together.
Skinner turns to Stan. "Uncle Sam thanks you for your service. Keep up the good work."
"Anything for my country Sir", says Stan saluting him before Skinner jumps out of the plane.
Part 49
"Scully, this is never going to work", says Mulder wiping the sweat off his forehead. We've been digging for God knows how long and we couldn't even bury my basketball in this hole."
"Quit complaining and keep digging", says Scully just as her bowl scrapes against something. Mulder and Scully look at each other before Mulder reaches up and grabs the torch that helps illuminate the darkened hut. He shines it in the hole with one hand while he scrapes the bowl through the dirt.
"You've got to be freakin' kidding me", he says. "Cement, we've hit cement Scully. Now if electricity doesn't tell you something, while in the world would a native hut have a cement foundation?"
Just then they hear movement behind them. The alien bounty hunter enters with two other masked natives behind him. The agents rise and they face off with Mulder reflexively moving in front of Scully.
"You've awakened. Good, now we can get down to business", says the bounty hunter.
"Yes, what exactly is your business here?", asks Mulder accusingly. "Doing your goddamn research on human DNA, abducting people and stealing their memories?"
"Mulder", says Scully gently reaching for his arm.
"Thats okay Agent Scully, let him talk. He has earned it. Your questions will be answered soon enough", the bounty hunter glances at Scully. "But first I would like to ask you one question. How did you find us and what are you doing here?"
"The travel agent recommended the island to us. I'm here because my doctor said I needed a vacation to help relieve my ulcer..........my doctor chose to come with me", says Mulder sarcastically.
"You never learn do you Agent Mulder? Always seeking the truth and falling more behind with every step you take. You're never going to discover what you need to know if you're dead and thats what you're going to be if you don't stop interfering in our plans."
"What exactly are your plans", pipes up Scully from behind Mulder. "Infecting the human race with a virus, a virus that will wipe out the planet so that your kind can move in and take over the world."
"Not exactly, we wouldn't want to eliminate everyone Agent Scully. We would need a slave race to help us renovate the planet into something more livable for our standards. Of course once the planet would be fit for our use, the others would be eliminated as well."
"It'll never happen", says Mulder. "I'm only one man, but there are others out there who are on to this plan and they will stop you."
"Who Agent Mulder? You forget that men are mortal and besides I'm unstoppable with my ability to fool everyone, including your partner." The bounty hunter shape shifts from himself to President Clinton, VP Al Gore, Janet Reno, and many other world leaders and politicians. Lastly, he shifts into Skinner, Mulder and then back to himself before shifting into his true form of alien. Scully gasps and steps back latching onto Mulder's hand.
"Whats wrong Agent Scully, never seen an alien before? I would have thought that your visit to Antarctica would have satisfied your skepticism." He turns to his two companions. "Show your true faces to our friends." The two natives remove their masks to reveal their gray faces with large expressionless black eyes.
Mulder turns to Scully. "Now do you believe me?", he asks her. Her mouth hangs open and she nods dumbfounded. Feeling lightheaded Agent Dana Scully faints dead away. Mulder catches her before she slides to the ground. He pulls her dead weight against him and balancing on his hip.
"I guess we are a little shocking to those who have spent their live convincing themselves that the Earth was safe from any kind of contact", laughs the bounty hunter. He shape shifts again to his human form and nods to the others who replace their masks. "We aren't likely to get your cooperation Agent Mulder and although we did have a plan in store for your partner and you I'm afraid that its not feasible any longer. Its getting late, but just say that tomorrow its going to be a little toasty for you." He turns and leaves followed by the others.
Mulder turns to Scully and gently lays her down on the ground. "Scully, Scully wake up. Come on don't do this now. I've never in my life seen you faint, well I still say that you fainted on Christmas that year, but you never admitted it." Scully slowly stirs and tosses her head back and forth. She finally opens her eyes to a concerned Mulder sitting next to her.
"What happened Mulder", she asks as she slowly sits up.
"You don't remember? Scully, come on you've got to remember", says Mulder. Scully frowns and shakes her head back and forth.
"You just saw your first aliens", says Mulder brushing a strand of hair our of her eyes.
"I did", says Scully sounding unconvinced.
"The bounty hunter just shape shifted into all these people including Skinner, me and then he took his true form, that of an alien. He then commanded his buddies to do the same and bingo......aliens. You stared, you studied them you looked shocked, you passed out and I held you up . Hello, did you hear what I said?", says Mulder frustrated.
"They had gray faces and big eyes?", says Scully.
"YES!", yells Mulder.
"Then I didn't see them", says Scully.
Mulder falls backwards and covers his eyes in frustration.
Part 50
"Get me down from here!", screams Langly dangling from a palm tree. Skinner hears him yelling and after disentangling himself from his own parachute he goes to investigate.
"Calm down! You've survived the worst part, now stop jumping around so much or you're going to rip the parachute and you'll................fall", says Skinner just as Langly falls to the ground and clutches his knee.
"Oh, my knee! I've think I've popped something!", he exclaims.
Skinner comes over and kneels down next to him. "I'm not a doctor, I don't know if you've done any real damage." He gently takes Langly's knee and twists it.
"Ahhhh, your killing me!", yells Langly. "The government better have good insurance, because I'm going to sue man."
"I told you Langly, that none of your medical expenses are going to be covered. You're a civilian, you aren't supposed to be on this mission, much less this island. You aren't going to get any money out of the government, you don't have a leg to stand on." He chuckles at his comment.
"You won't be laughing when I report that you allowed us to come with you, that you didn't order us to abandon our mission and actually asked for our assistance", says Langly.
Skinner makes a face. "I don't think you're hurt that bad. Get up and try to walk on it. Toughen up and be a man."
Langly glares and gets to his feet and slowly takes a couple of steps. "I guess I'll be all right. I can't walk very fast though. Where is Frohike and Byers?"
"We're right here", yells Byers from a about ten yards away. He walks into their view followed by Frohike.
"Good, we've all made it", says Skinner reaching down and reassuring himself that his gun is still in its holster. "We've still got a couple of hours of sunlight left. Our first priority is to find Mulder and Scully before sunset, or some evidence of their habitation. Something that will give us a clue to what has happened here. Hopefully, nothing has happened and they're holed up somewhere waiting out the storm. Now, I was lucky enough to obtain a copy of a map of the island. Its highly classified and I had to steal it out of the bureau's library. So, if anyone of you use it don't get your grimy fingerprints on it." He pulls it out and unfolds it. "I say we try nearest to the beach on the south end of the island first. Thats where Craig said that he set them down. If they aren't there we'll have to cover the island inch by inch. If they were searching for shelter they could have hidden in one of these caves bordering on the volcano. There are scores of them, so lets hope that we find them quickly."
"Did you say volcano?", asks Frohike nervously. "Like is it active or what?"
"Not that I know of", replies Skinner. "But every volcano has the potential to erupt. Its just a sitting time bomb ready to explode."
"That made me feel a whole lot better", says Frohike.
"Lets not waste any more time", says Byers stepping forward. "Mr. Skinner wants us to head to the beach. So, thats where we're headed." Skinner leads the group into the jungle. Some leaves shift back into place after they have passed by.
Mulder awakens with his head in someone's lap. "Scully?", he asks in hesitation.
"Sshh", Scully replies. "Its me Mulder. You've had a minor head trauma and you're going to have a really bad headache." She brushes the hair away from his forehead.
Mulder attempts to get up but winces in pain from the large lump on the back of his head. "Going to? I already feel like I got hit in the head with a two by four. Where are we Scully?"
"Mulder, we're back in that hut again, but they haven't tied us up this time and there is something I've got to tell you", says Scully sighing.
"What? You sound confused", asks Mulder concerned.
"Mulder I am confused, because what I just saw defies explanation in my book", says Scully rolling her eyes to stare at the bamboo ceiling of the hut.
"It sounds right up my alley", says Mulder. "Actually I've got something to tell you too."
Scully licks her lips before beginning. "I was at the cave typing our report and wondering if you had been abducted when you came racing out of the rain. You told me that you had found something that you wanted me to see." Scully glances down to see Mulder with his eyes wide open staring at her in astonishment. "The problem was that during our argument concerning if I should go see whatever immediately......you became insistent and for a moment I thought you were going to turn abusive." Mulder frowns at her and tries to interrupt her. "But wait a minute Mulder, when I tried to examine you for an injury you said 'don't touch me' and then the ultimate happened."
"That was not me Scully, you've got to believe me. I would never pass up you touching me", says Mulder.
Scully smiles out of amusement. "Thats just it Mulder, I can't explain it, but the next thing I knew you......wasn't you. The man I loved shifted into that bounty hunter and well, I just had my third experience of running into your double. I'm just glad he wasn't interested in me like Eddie VanBluntz was, because he would have gotten a lot further than he did."
Mulder has sat up immediately. "Did he hurt you?", he asks grasping her shoulders with a look of concern bordering with rage mirroring from his eyes.
"No, of course not. I demanded where you were and he said the only way to help you was for me to go with him", replies Scully staring back at him reassuringly.
"So he used me to trick you", snarls Mulder dropping his hands from her shoulders and facing forward in anger.
"Mulder, we've been through this too many times. Just forget it and try to think of a way out of this", says Scully.
"Well they obviously haven't figured out that we're really resourceful", says Mulder slowly getting to his feet.
"What were you going to tell me Mulder?", asks Scully still sitting cross-legged on the ground.
"When I went for that walk I got a little curious Scully and you won't believe what I found", says Mulder turning to look at her.
"Don't even tell me an alien Mulder", says Scully with laughter in her voice.
"Not exactly", says Mulder running his hand through his hair. "But I do they think they are here and they're using this island as a meeting place between themselves and those that are cooperating with them. What we saw in that lab is connected with this tribe. When I came out here by myself all of their costumes were hung in this very hut on hangers....hangers Scully, since when do tribesmen own plastic blue hangers? Scully, these natives, have they taken off their masks at all since we've been here? Ask yourself that question and then tell me that there is no possibility that they couldn't be extraterrestrials that have taken advantage of a myth to disguise their experimental research on human genetics?"
"Mulder......", moans Scully.
"But what if Scully? What if we've stumbled upon a colony of aliens that are here for the purpose of learning everything they can about human anatomy, physiology and psychology?", says Mulder waving his hands around in the air.
"But for what purpose Mulder? If what you're saying is true, why would they bother abducting people like in Oregon? Besides, how many people do you see running around on this island that they can use for test subjects? I mean this isn't exactly Bermuda or the Bahamas for that matter. People aren't cruising down to Lani Lai to spend a relaxing vacation on the beach. It isn't in the tourist books Mulder because no one recommends coming here."
"Thats exactly why this location is perfect Scully for the government to cooperate with them. Men in our Pentagon could be providing unwilling test subjects for this project and we've fallen smack into it. How much do you bet that the helicopter won't even show up for us tomorrow morning?"
"Mulder, don't say that. Of course he is coming for us, we paid him to pick us up after five days", says Scully rising to her feet.
"How can you explain that building in the middle of the jungle? A freezer with barrels full of black oil that crawls faster than an ant colony Scully? We had to crawl through the ceiling to escape from a puddle that looked like molasses but could crawl up shelving. Now would you please elaborate on what your theory is for me", says Mulder shaking his head and walking toward the flap of the tent not seeing a thin wire running along the opening.
"I can't explain it Mulder. I don't have any theories. For the first time working on the X-Files with you I am totally dumbfounded with what is going on here. All I know is we've go to escape this hut and head out to the beach tonight. Maybe you can send up some flares or something. I only wish we could use our cell phones or the radio to call for the Coast Guard or someone", says Scully just as Mulder's foot hits the wire. He flies backwards and slams into the wall beside her and slides down.
Part 47
"Mulder!", she exclaims dropping to her knees beside him. She taps his cheek lightly. "Are you all right?"
"Yeah", says Mulder weakly. "Now please tell me how tribal members have discovered the benefits of electricity Scully."
"I can't.......okay you're right Mulder. There is something going on here and its not just human sacrifice. That door is wired so we won't escape. Are you sure you're all right Mulder?"
"Of course I am Scully", smiles Mulder. "I've always wondered if I should wear my hair a little more spiky. How does it look?" He pats the top of his head.
"You look like a porcupine", says Scully spitting in her hand and trying to flatten it.
"Eww, you spit on me", says Mulder.
"You sound like a girl", says Scully. "Now quit whining and help me get us out of here."
"And how do you propose doing that Agent Scully", asks Mulder crossing his arms across his chest and giving her a challenging look.
Scully gets up and walks over to the edge of the hut and picks us a couple of small bowls. She walks back over to Mulder and sits down beside him.
"Scully, you're going to cook for me?", says Mulder jokingly.
"No, start digging Mulder", says Scully.
"You've got to be kidding", says Mulder staring down at the bowl.
"No, I'm not Mulder. Do you have a better idea?", asks Scully starting to dig a hole next to the hut's wall.
"No, but didn't I see this in an episode of Hogan's Heroes", asks Mulder.
"You've got way too much time on your hands Mulder", says Scully throwing dirt over her shoulder.
"Yes....Mary Ann", says Mulder.
"I thought you wanted me to be a Ginger", says Scully.
"Yes, but Ginger was an airhead Scully and Mary Ann had everything going for her, a great body and brains. Ginger would never have come up with a plan like this." He takes a bowl of dirt tossing it over his shoulder. He leans over and gives Scully a kiss on the cheek and continues digging. Scully gives a little smile.
Part 48
"So you're really from the FBI?", asks Stan as he adjusts controls of the plane.
"Yes", says Skinner calmly from the copilots seat. He glances in the back to see the Lone Gunmen who are huddled around a window looking out. Skinner rolls his eyes and faces forward again.
"I can't believe I'm flying feds in my little plane", exclaims Stan grinning. "I mean I never served in the military and now, well I feel like I've finally done a small part in serving my country."
"Don't let it overwhelm you Stan", says Skinner. "We needed to get out there somehow and I was at the point where if I couldn't get a flight I was going to rent a powerboat and drive out there myself."
"Oh, well its just that I grew up watching FBI shows. My Dad was a cop and I always thought it was all so exciting", continues Stan. "What do you have to go out there for?"
"We're looking for two missing agents", replies Skinner taking a sip of coffee out of a cup.
"I didn't think anyone would want to go to Lani Lai", says Stan. "I mean except for those two loony honeymooners that Craig told me about. Man, who in their right minds would want to go there for a romantic getaway. The place is infested in bugs, snakes not to mention the downright spooky myth about the green headed natives."
"That was not a honeymooning couple, those were my agents Dana Scully and Fox Mulder", replies Skinner slightly annoyed. "What do you mean green headed natives?"
"Ah, its just a legend, thats all", replies Stan. "Are you sure that your agents aren't really on their honeymoon? I was at the hanger the day that the dude called from DC and I saw Craig pull off a copy of a marriage certificate off of the fax machine. Besides, Craig said that when he dropped them off they looked kinda cozy if you know what I mean." Stan gives a sideways glance at Skinner.
"Have you ever heard of being bamboozled Stan", asks Skinner?
"Is that something to do with bamboo furniture?", asks Stan.
"No, I'm saying that agent Mulder tricked your friend into getting a honeymoon discount on his helicopter rental. He's famous for turning around something so it works to his advantage. What you saw was a couple of agents doing what they do best, undercover work."
"Undercover work? Wow, now this is like tv. You mean they were armed and everything? Craig didn't even know it?", exclaims Stan.
"Well, officially this isn't a case", says Skinner looking away. "Not one that I assigned anyway, but their rescue is my responsibility and I've got to see to it. But anyway, yes I suppose most likely if they were anticipating on running into trouble then, yes I would have to say that they were armed at the time of the flight."
"Oh, Craig will get a kick out of this", says Stan.
"He already knows, but he has been instructed to keep this quiet as you will", says Skinner with a warning in the tone of his voice.
"Sure, sure whatever the government wants me to do I'll do", says Stan. He flips a switch and starts to get up.
"What the hell are you doing?", asks Skinner grabbing his elbow and forcing him to sit down.
"I've got to get the parachutes out of the overhead compartment man", says Stan getting up again. "Relax, its on auto pilot."
"Parachutes!", yells Langly from the back. "You said you knew how to fly this plane."
"I do", says Stan. "But I can't land on an uninhabited island that doesn't have a runway! You four are going to have to glide in." He opens up a cabinet and pulls out four backpacks and hands one to Skinner who reluctantly takes one.
"I've parachuted in the Marines. Matter of fact thats how they got me into Nam, but you can't tell me that these three are going to be able to do it", says Skinner.
"We'll do anything that will help Mulder and Scully", says Byers slipping the straps over his arms and snapping the buckle in place.
"Speak for yourself", says Langly. "I'll go back until Craig can bring me in on the chopper. I'm not jumping, thats it."
Frohike stares at the parachute in his lap. "I never thought I would be doing this, but if I die trying to save Dana its worth it", he says as he slips his own on and fastens it. Skinner rolls his eyes at the melodrama that is playing out.
"Are you guys sure you want to go through with this", asks Skinner. "Ringo......I mean Langly has already stated his reluctance to jump. Maybe the three of you should head back and wait for me to return with the agents. You're civilians and I can't guarantee that the government will pick up any medical bills you may incur if you get injured."
"Don't try to talk us out of this Mr. Skinner", says Byers holding down Langly as Frohike slips the parachute on him. "We know why we came and we're not going home until we see Mulder and Scully with our own eyes. You may need backup and we're all you've got."
Skinner nods reluctantly. He gets to his feet. "Okay, once we reach where we are flying directly over the island we will jump out together. Wait about ten seconds or so before you pull this ripcord." He points to his cord on his own parachute. "If that does not immediately open, pull this one." He points to another one.
"What happens if that doesn't open?", asks Frohike tucking his glasses in his pocket. Skinner raises an eyebrow at him.
"Well, um lets go Langly", says Frohike removing Langly's glasses and tucking them in his Hawaiian t-shirt pocket.
"You can't force me to jump", yells Langly struggling as Frohike and Byers push him over to the door where Stan has opened it.
"Come on Langly, don't be so immature. It will be over before you know it", says Byers.
"You aren't going to get me to jump", says Langly digging his feet into the carpeting. Skinner stands directly behind them.
"We're over the island. Its now or never", says Stan. "You guys have to jump within the next twenty seconds or so.
"No!", screams Langly.
"Just hold your nose", says Skinner giving him a huge shove. Langly falls out of the plane. "AHHHHHHHH!!!"
Byers and Frohike look at each other and then nod. They jump out together.
Skinner turns to Stan. "Uncle Sam thanks you for your service. Keep up the good work."
"Anything for my country Sir", says Stan saluting him before Skinner jumps out of the plane.
Part 49
"Scully, this is never going to work", says Mulder wiping the sweat off his forehead. We've been digging for God knows how long and we couldn't even bury my basketball in this hole."
"Quit complaining and keep digging", says Scully just as her bowl scrapes against something. Mulder and Scully look at each other before Mulder reaches up and grabs the torch that helps illuminate the darkened hut. He shines it in the hole with one hand while he scrapes the bowl through the dirt.
"You've got to be freakin' kidding me", he says. "Cement, we've hit cement Scully. Now if electricity doesn't tell you something, while in the world would a native hut have a cement foundation?"
Just then they hear movement behind them. The alien bounty hunter enters with two other masked natives behind him. The agents rise and they face off with Mulder reflexively moving in front of Scully.
"You've awakened. Good, now we can get down to business", says the bounty hunter.
"Yes, what exactly is your business here?", asks Mulder accusingly. "Doing your goddamn research on human DNA, abducting people and stealing their memories?"
"Mulder", says Scully gently reaching for his arm.
"Thats okay Agent Scully, let him talk. He has earned it. Your questions will be answered soon enough", the bounty hunter glances at Scully. "But first I would like to ask you one question. How did you find us and what are you doing here?"
"The travel agent recommended the island to us. I'm here because my doctor said I needed a vacation to help relieve my ulcer..........my doctor chose to come with me", says Mulder sarcastically.
"You never learn do you Agent Mulder? Always seeking the truth and falling more behind with every step you take. You're never going to discover what you need to know if you're dead and thats what you're going to be if you don't stop interfering in our plans."
"What exactly are your plans", pipes up Scully from behind Mulder. "Infecting the human race with a virus, a virus that will wipe out the planet so that your kind can move in and take over the world."
"Not exactly, we wouldn't want to eliminate everyone Agent Scully. We would need a slave race to help us renovate the planet into something more livable for our standards. Of course once the planet would be fit for our use, the others would be eliminated as well."
"It'll never happen", says Mulder. "I'm only one man, but there are others out there who are on to this plan and they will stop you."
"Who Agent Mulder? You forget that men are mortal and besides I'm unstoppable with my ability to fool everyone, including your partner." The bounty hunter shape shifts from himself to President Clinton, VP Al Gore, Janet Reno, and many other world leaders and politicians. Lastly, he shifts into Skinner, Mulder and then back to himself before shifting into his true form of alien. Scully gasps and steps back latching onto Mulder's hand.
"Whats wrong Agent Scully, never seen an alien before? I would have thought that your visit to Antarctica would have satisfied your skepticism." He turns to his two companions. "Show your true faces to our friends." The two natives remove their masks to reveal their gray faces with large expressionless black eyes.
Mulder turns to Scully. "Now do you believe me?", he asks her. Her mouth hangs open and she nods dumbfounded. Feeling lightheaded Agent Dana Scully faints dead away. Mulder catches her before she slides to the ground. He pulls her dead weight against him and balancing on his hip.
"I guess we are a little shocking to those who have spent their live convincing themselves that the Earth was safe from any kind of contact", laughs the bounty hunter. He shape shifts again to his human form and nods to the others who replace their masks. "We aren't likely to get your cooperation Agent Mulder and although we did have a plan in store for your partner and you I'm afraid that its not feasible any longer. Its getting late, but just say that tomorrow its going to be a little toasty for you." He turns and leaves followed by the others.
Mulder turns to Scully and gently lays her down on the ground. "Scully, Scully wake up. Come on don't do this now. I've never in my life seen you faint, well I still say that you fainted on Christmas that year, but you never admitted it." Scully slowly stirs and tosses her head back and forth. She finally opens her eyes to a concerned Mulder sitting next to her.
"What happened Mulder", she asks as she slowly sits up.
"You don't remember? Scully, come on you've got to remember", says Mulder. Scully frowns and shakes her head back and forth.
"You just saw your first aliens", says Mulder brushing a strand of hair our of her eyes.
"I did", says Scully sounding unconvinced.
"The bounty hunter just shape shifted into all these people including Skinner, me and then he took his true form, that of an alien. He then commanded his buddies to do the same and bingo......aliens. You stared, you studied them you looked shocked, you passed out and I held you up . Hello, did you hear what I said?", says Mulder frustrated.
"They had gray faces and big eyes?", says Scully.
"YES!", yells Mulder.
"Then I didn't see them", says Scully.
Mulder falls backwards and covers his eyes in frustration.
Part 50
"Get me down from here!", screams Langly dangling from a palm tree. Skinner hears him yelling and after disentangling himself from his own parachute he goes to investigate.
"Calm down! You've survived the worst part, now stop jumping around so much or you're going to rip the parachute and you'll................fall", says Skinner just as Langly falls to the ground and clutches his knee.
"Oh, my knee! I've think I've popped something!", he exclaims.
Skinner comes over and kneels down next to him. "I'm not a doctor, I don't know if you've done any real damage." He gently takes Langly's knee and twists it.
"Ahhhh, your killing me!", yells Langly. "The government better have good insurance, because I'm going to sue man."
"I told you Langly, that none of your medical expenses are going to be covered. You're a civilian, you aren't supposed to be on this mission, much less this island. You aren't going to get any money out of the government, you don't have a leg to stand on." He chuckles at his comment.
"You won't be laughing when I report that you allowed us to come with you, that you didn't order us to abandon our mission and actually asked for our assistance", says Langly.
Skinner makes a face. "I don't think you're hurt that bad. Get up and try to walk on it. Toughen up and be a man."
Langly glares and gets to his feet and slowly takes a couple of steps. "I guess I'll be all right. I can't walk very fast though. Where is Frohike and Byers?"
"We're right here", yells Byers from a about ten yards away. He walks into their view followed by Frohike.
"Good, we've all made it", says Skinner reaching down and reassuring himself that his gun is still in its holster. "We've still got a couple of hours of sunlight left. Our first priority is to find Mulder and Scully before sunset, or some evidence of their habitation. Something that will give us a clue to what has happened here. Hopefully, nothing has happened and they're holed up somewhere waiting out the storm. Now, I was lucky enough to obtain a copy of a map of the island. Its highly classified and I had to steal it out of the bureau's library. So, if anyone of you use it don't get your grimy fingerprints on it." He pulls it out and unfolds it. "I say we try nearest to the beach on the south end of the island first. Thats where Craig said that he set them down. If they aren't there we'll have to cover the island inch by inch. If they were searching for shelter they could have hidden in one of these caves bordering on the volcano. There are scores of them, so lets hope that we find them quickly."
"Did you say volcano?", asks Frohike nervously. "Like is it active or what?"
"Not that I know of", replies Skinner. "But every volcano has the potential to erupt. Its just a sitting time bomb ready to explode."
"That made me feel a whole lot better", says Frohike.
"Lets not waste any more time", says Byers stepping forward. "Mr. Skinner wants us to head to the beach. So, thats where we're headed." Skinner leads the group into the jungle. Some leaves shift back into place after they have passed by.