TITLE: THE SILENT SEA (1/6) AUTHOR: XPHILERNJ E-MAIL: xphilernj@aol.com RATED: NC-17 CATEGORY: MSR CLASSIFICATION: X, T KEYWORDS: Angst, Humor DISCLAIMER: : Nope, don't own 'em. CC does. I just borrow 'em. SPOILERS: Post-Milagro/S.R. 819 DISTRIBUTION: Sure, fine, whatever. Just let me know where. I want visitation rights. SUMMARY: The silent sea can be unforgiving at times, but true love is undaunting and forgiving. Author Notes: This is my very first attempt at writing an X-file adventure. The places are real but may not be true to form. I did take a few liberties with my imagination and the myth contained in this story is also the product of my warped mind. I do apologize if I have offended anyone. ~x~x~x~x~x~ Prologue Virgin Islands Somewhere off the Isle of Anegada Thursday, before dawn A calm sea. No wind. No gentle breeze. Only the eerie and unnerving sound of water splashing against the side of the small boat. Sensations of fear and uncertainty slowly crept up from the base of his spine to the nape of his neck. The sea had always been a comfort to him as the gentle breeze would caress his soul and calm his worried mind. But, for some unexplained reason, he couldn't seem to shake the feelings that had overcome him. The unseen hand of dread squeezed his heart as shivers ran through his body causing the tiny hairs on the back of his neck to tingle and ache. He turned his attention back to the task at hand, needing to get the traps set before the sun rose above the horizon. He knew he shouldn't have come out alone. They all had been warned. Before he left her earlier, Molina had begged him to ask his brother to go along. Suddenly, the boat began to rock, shaking him from his reverie. The traps rattled and moved across the deck as the vessel groaned. He grabbed the rail, closed his eyes and prayed. Then it stopped. He slowly opened his eyes and carefully slid to the side cautiously looking over the edge. He moved to the opposite side, again looking around, but found nothing. He shook his head and went back to checking the traps, thinking maybe it was just a school of fish passing below, but not quite believing his thoughts. 'Come on, Monge. Get a hold of yourself, man. It's nothing. Just your imagination.' But the sensations of dread were getting stronger. More intense than he wanted to admit. Without warning, the small boat began to shudder and then shake violently. Monge's adrenalin pumped through his tense body, fear hitting him with a force he had never experienced before. Flashes of his family and home danced before his eyes. He prayed the gods would end this nightmare quickly. The violent shaking of the boat suddenly stopped. Monge's hands ached, his knuckles white, his whole body shivering. With trembling hands, he wiped the perspiration running down his pale face. ""By all the gods! What is going on?"" he whispered into the night. His hands still shaking and fear still evident, he stood on trembling legs. Again without warning, the boat rocked and jerked upward as if something was pushing it out of the water. Monge frantically grabbed for the rail, a fist of fear tightening around his heart and his feet desperately seeking a way to stop his rapid descent into the sea. "NO!" He screamed as he was thrown into the water. ~x~x~x~x~ Monge kicked upward through the darkness, coughing and gasping for air as his body rose above the surface. He blinked several times trying to locate his boat. He slowly breathed in and out, cautiously looking from side to side. No sound. Only the eerie silence and the pounding of his heart in his ears. "Come on, Monge, move it," he whispered to himself as a whirlwind of disturbing thoughts ran through his mind. 'My family, how would they survive without me?' A tingle of relief washed over him when he spotted his boat about 20 yards away. With only the moon to light his way, he began swimming toward the small vessel. 'Almost there. Come on swim. Almost there.' The mantra played over and over in his aching head. His arms and legs were painfully heavy with exhaustion as he struggled against the sea, knowing he should be close. He stopped swimming to gauge the distance and his eyes widened with disbelief to see the boat drift further away. A feeling of panic crept up his spine and into his heart. The comfort he had always felt with the sea was gone now and fear had taken its place once more. He took deep breaths to calm his ragged nerves and started swimming again, pushing all other thoughts aside with each stroke of his arms. 'Breathe......in-out-in-out' Suddenly, he gasped and disappeared as an unseen hand pulled him under with unbelievable strength. He kicked and fought against a force that was threatening to take him further and deeper into the dark sea. Monge struggled against the unknown. His heart pounded against his chest and his lungs ached for air. Amongst the fear and desperation, there was only one waking thought before the darkness overtook him. 'Please forgive me, Molina.' The sea became calm, enveloped once again in silence. No wind, only the eerie sounds of water splashing against the sides of a small boat. ~x~x~x~x~ End of Prologue. ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 1 Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Virgin Islands Isle of Anegada Thursday Night ~x~x~x~x~ It was the eerie silence that drew him to the ocean's edge. The absence of wind and sound made his skin crawl. Rey stood on the beach looking out at the vast sea of blue toward the horizon. A boat? A ship? His heart skipped a beat, his breath quickened, his mind racing through all the possibilities. It wasn't uncommon for Monge to be gone for hours at a time and, depending on the catch of the day, return no later than mid-afternoon. No one became concerned until Monge did not return by dark. Rey closed his eyes and shook his head. 'No. My mind wants to see these things'. When he opened his eyes again, longing to get another glimpse, his body began to shake. Caught in a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts, his whole body jerked when a small hand touched his arm. He turned to see Ninos by his side. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close, laying his cheek atop her head. She pressed her ear against his chest and listened to his heart beat hard and fast. Ninos looked up into his eyes, placing a hand on his cheek. "What is it, Rey? What has you so frightened?" He looked back over the ocean and shook his head. "I've never seen it like this before. I heard the stories when I was young.....but never....," the words trailed off in a whisper. Ninos hugged him close. "Let's go back to the house, Rey. They will find him." He gently stroked her long black hair, looked into her big brown eyes and placed a soft kiss on her lips. "You're right, let's go in. We'll find him tomorrow." They slowly walked up the beach to their little house on the hill. He glanced back once more hoping to see the boat this time. Nothing. He bowed his head, climbed the steps and walked through the door. Sadly he closed the door to another day. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 1 Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ Scully's Apartment Thursday evening Notes, reports and expense vouchers. A long week of paperwork and bad memories had only left her frustrated and exhausted. At Mulder's insistence, she left work early feeling a little guilty but grateful. She entered her apartment, sighed and locked the door behind her. The memories of a story that Padgett revealed about herself was more. than she was willing to admit to. It had frightened and worried her, knowing Mulder had read the story, even more than knowing that Padgett had gotten too close. Scully slowly walked to her bedroom, undressing as she went. She placed her shoes back in the closet, slung her suit across the chair in the corner of the room and headed for her sanctuary. A place where she could soak away the aches and pains of the day and bad memories of the past. She entered her bathroom, ran the water and slipped into the warm solitude of her tub. She closed her eyes and placed a hand over her heart, then sighed. Mortar of loneliness and bricks of time lay before her. Years ago, she had carefully built a wall around her heart, replacing crumbled and broken pieces along the way. Mulder had patiently taken one brick down at a time, chiseling away the doubt and uncertainty, until the wall no longer existed. After Mulder read Padgett's story, she could see the concern and worry on his face. But there was something in his eyes. Jealousy? Maybe. She was not sure even as the pangs of guilt pierced her heart. They'd had a long talk after that last night. The night a killer walked through her door and....she shuddered at the thought...tried to take her heart. She had reassured Mulder that *he* had her heart and no one could ever take what did not belong to them. The case was over, paper work finished and expense reports filled out. It had been a long week and tomorrow was Friday. 'One more day, just one more day and then we can rest and relax. Yeah, right' she thought to herself. 'I need a vacation.' ~x~x~x~x~ Scully curled up on the couch with a cup of her favorite tea in hand, in her favorite robe and an afghan wrapped securely around her legs. She inhaled the aroma drifting up from her cup, then sipped it slowly, letting the warmth sooth her. With her head propped against the arm of the couch, she thought of white sandy beaches and warm sunny days. 'Now that would be a vacation. A nice long week in paradise.' As a small smile crossed her lips, she closed her eyes and dreamed of lazy days on the beach with a tall, handsome, dark haired hunk of a man beside her. Of course, she mused, with her fair skin, he would smooth suntan lotion onto her arms, shoulders and back, massaging her muscles with big strong hands, slowly moving further and further down her body. A sigh escaped her lips as she continued to dream. A knock on the door and the jingle of keys brought her out of the blissful trance. She opened her eyes and smiled when the hunk walked through the door, a grin on his face. "Hello, beautiful" he whispered, closing and locking the door behind him. "Hello yourself, handsome", she whispered back. Mulder moved across the room and set his briefcase on the floor. He slowly removed his coat, laid it across the back of the couch and slipped out of his shoes. He lowered himself onto the couch with his right leg tucked under the left. He reached under the afghan, took her small foot out and started massaging it gently with his thumb. "Long week, huh?" He pulled her other foot from under the afghan. "Yeah", was her only reply, relaxing completely when he began massaging the other foot. She set her cup of tea on the coffee table, raised an eyebrow, and looked him in the eye. "What?" he asked with an innocent face and twinkle in his eyes. "Come on, Mulder, don't give me that look." "Look? What look?" A smile pulled at the corner of his mouth. "I saw the file, Mulder, even though you were trying to hide it unsuccessfully I might add." She tried to be serious, then shook her head, seeing the sheepish look on his face. He dropped his head and sighed. Releasing her foot he reached under his coat, pulled out the file and laid it in her lap. "Skinner called just as I left to let us know he had a case file he wanted us to look into. He said it could wait til morning, but since I was coming by anyway, I told him I would pick it up and we would look it over tonight. I was thinking maybe we could do some research tomorrow and then begin working the case on Monday." "It's okay Mulder. I know you didn't want another case so soon and neither did I. I was looking forward to a nice quiet weekend with just you too." "Scully, I really didn't want anything to interrupt this weekend. It's been too long since we had any time just to ourselves. I was hoping after Padgett..." his voice trailed off, cringing as the words rolled off his tongue and he looked at her with sad eyes. Scully dropped her head as embarrassment tinged her cheeks. Remnants of that near fatal night still shadowed the edges of her mind, even though she possessed the knowledge, comfort and strength of Mulder's love. He reached out and brushed her cheek with the back of his hand. "I'm fine Mulder, really. It has been awhile, hasn't it?" She tried to smile, placed her hand on top of his where it lay against her cheek. "Scully, I'm sorry, so sorry." "It's okay. It'll just take some time. But I'm okay," she said kissing the palm of his hand. After a couple of minutes she released his hand and sat up. With her legs crossed in front of her, she took a deep shuddering breath and opened the file. "Now, what've we got here? Have you read it yet?" she asked as she tucked her hair behind her ear and began reading. "Actually no, I haven't. I wanted to wait." Scully looked up from the file with questioning eyes to see a mischievious twinkle in his eyes. And that smile. The one that always reduced her to a puddle of goo. "Thought we could get some snuggle time in before settling down with the file". That smile again. She knew she was doomed. All she could do was laugh. He stretched his right leg out beside her with the left leg hanging off the edge of the couch, opened his arms and waggled his eyebrows. She paused for only a second, then moved to recline against his chest. He wound his arms around her waist and hugged her close. She turned her head upward and kissed him on the chin. Mulder lowered his head and kissed the tip of her nose. They both relaxed, content in the silence of their embrace. ~x~x~x~x~ Later that night ~x~x~x~x~ "Mulder, I don't understand. Why would Skinner give this file to us? Couldn't the local law enforcement or even our local FBI office handle this?" She looked up from the file to see him smiling. "Okay, Mulder, give. What have you got?" "I'm not sure yet. I do remember several other cases that were brought to my attention a few weeks ago but..." he paused at the incredulous look on her face....."get that look off your face Scully, I was going to tell you about them, but then the Padgett case came up and well...." He shrugged his shoulders and looked very much like a little boy. She chuckled and turned back to the file. "Okay, Mulder, I'll give you this one. This time." Still chuckling, he hugged her closer to him. "Thanks. Honestly, I was going to tell you." Pressing a kiss to her cheek, he knew he was forgiven. "Tell me what you know so far." Retrieving the new set of files from his briefcase, he handed them to her. The old files were of fishermen that turned up several days after going missing. No wounds, no bruising, nothing to tell how they had met their fate. The odd thing the coroner noted, with each one, was the fact that they had not drowned. Scully listened as she read over the files she held in her lap. She suddenly looked up when he finished. "Didn't drown? Are they sure? Mulder, if they didn't drown, then how did they die? That doesn't make sense. The fishermen went missing off the boat in the middle of the ocean, then were found days later on shore. And you're telling me that they did not drown?" 'He has that smirk on his face. The one that drives me completely nuts. He knows something or thinks he knows,' Scully thought to herself. "Alright, Mulder, spill it. What's the theory this time. Mermaids? Giant Jellyfish? Hidden spaceship under water? What?" she demanded with playful sarcasm. "Oh, Scully, keep talking like that and......hmmmm...." he hummed as he nibbled and kissed her neck. "Mulder......." Giving up, she started to laugh. "Mulder, what *do* you know?" "I don't have a theory yet, but it looks like you will have your week in the sun on the beach," he said smiling. Throwing the files on the table, she spun around to look him in the eyes. "How did you know I was thinking about the beach and sun?" asked raising an eyebrow. "Come on, Scully, after all these years, I know after a really bad case you need some down time. Preferably by the water. Am I right?" She smiled and laid her head on his chest, wrapping her arms around his waist. "You do know me, sometimes too well. I think I like it." "I was thinking, maybe after the assignment was over, Skinner would let us take a couple of days before returning back to D.C." "That would be nice, Mulder." She snuggled closer to him as if she couldn't get close enough. God, she loved this man. No other man had ever gotten under her skin the way Mulder had. No one knew her better than Mulder. He layed his cheek on the crown of her head. "Scully, it's getting late and we still have work tomorrow. I think I should get up now and go before I fall asleep on your couch again." She tightened her hold on him, not wanting to let go. She wanted to fall asleep in his arms and wake up to his beautiful smile in the morning. "Will you stay? Just hold me and sleep. I mean, if you want to." She felt the heat rising up to her face, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink as she tucked her head back against his chest and listened to his heart beat faster. He lifted her chin and said, "Yes." That's all he needed to say. His eyes told her so much more. "Thank you." He untangled himself from her embrace, got up and pulled her up off the couch. They entered the bedroom, getting a pair of his sweatpants she kept in the bottom drawer and a t-shirt for herself, quickly changed and crawled into bed. Lying "Lying" on his back, his arm was wrapped around her waist with her head resting on his chest. She laid her leg across his thigh and her hand rested upon his heart. He tucked her hair behind her ear, stroked her cheek and then gently rubbed her arm. "Goodnight, Mulder, I love you." "Goodnight. I love you too, Scully," he said, kissing the crown of her head. She settled against his warmth and fell asleep with a smile on her face, dreaming of white sand, sun and a tall, handsome dark haired hunk of a man by her side. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 1 Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ Isle of Anegada Friday 7a.m. The smell of exotic flowers and fresh made breads filled the morning air. The sun shone bright in a clear blue sky and the air was cool and crisp. Another beautiful day was starting as the village square came alive. The local men gathered around the small church with whispers of concern and the fear evident on many faces. Rey slowly walked up the path leading to the square. As he approached, there was a heart wrenching silence as every man looked toward Rey with sad understanding eyes. He nodded his greetings to each, searching out the eldest among them. The Elder reached out, giving his arm a slight squeeze. Monge had not returned with his boat the day before. Concern for his safety was now being discussed among the men. They were well aware of the dangers of going out alone and everyone knew Monge had gone alone many times before, knowing he was a proud man not wanting to burden anyone else. The Elder gathered the men close and instructed them to go two and three to a boat in search of Monge. As they prepared to leave, the Elder pulled Rey aside and asked him to stay. Rey didn't understand at first, but obeyed, even though confusion and questions shone in his eyes. He obediently followed the Elder into the church. Rey quietly asked the Elder if Monge's disappearance was related to the stories he had heard as a child. When he looked into the Elder's eyes, it told him more than he wanted to know. Fear, panic and disbelief asserted themselves and suddenly he found it hard to breath. The Elder placed a strong, though wrinkled hand upon his. "When I was a young man, I heard stories of the silent sea and have seen too many times what the sea has taken from this village. Now it has taken from us again. It awakens every thirty years with a hunger I cannot explain. When it has taken what it needs, the wind will howl and the sea will churn as fire," he said, pausing for a moment. "What happens to the sea?" Rey asked. The Elder shook his head. "We do not know. When the sea begins to churn and glow, there is a bright light, the sky becomes dark once more and the winds return." "The men? I don't understand. They are missing for a few days and then found dead. Will this happen to my brother? Will I find him....?" Rey didn't want to believe what the Elder was saying. He didn't want to believe that his brother would not be found alive. "We will find him," Rey insisted. "He will laugh and wonder why we were so worried about him. This I have to believe." "I only hope and pray the gods will be merciful this time and will spare your brother's life." The Elder would not say more. He simply placed his hand over Rey's and sighed. It was the Elder's way of letting him know that he understood that Rey needed his belief in finding his brother, alive and well. When they returned to the village square, the Elder sent Rey home with the assurance that word would be sent soon. With a heavy heart, Rey left for home, slowly walking down the path that he and Monge had used so many times when they were children. Tears ran down his face as thoughts of his brother and the sea invaded his mind. 'Monge has to be alive. I won't believe otherwise.' He soon found himself standing at the water's edge, searching and longing to see a sign. Ninos watched him from the front steps, tears streaming down her face. She loved him so much and feared that he would never be the same again if they brought him bad news from the village. All she could do was hope and pray the gods would be merciful to Monge and her Rey. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 1 Part 4 ~x~x~x~x~ Basement Office Hoover Building Friday, 8 a.m. "You're late." He smirked, tapping his pencil on the desk when she walked through the door. He watched as she walked slowly toward him and placed her briefcase on her desk. She gave him a sultry look then, picked up her mug and sauntered off to the coffeemaker. The pencil snapped. "Well, if I remember correctly, my shower was interrupted this morning. And may I ask what time you got here?" she asked as she sat down, her back to the door. "About 5 minutes ago," he said with a smile. "And if I remember correctly there was a warm sexy body in my shower more than willing..." His voice trailed off, his smile fading and his face suddenly pale. Scully placed her cup on the desk and opened her mouth to ask what was wrong until she saw the look in his eyes. She slowly closed her eyes as a blush rose to her cheeks. 'Damn it all to hell and back.' First, she heard the distant sound of a throat being cleared. Second, the shuffle of his feet through the door. All she could do at that very moment was close her eyes. 'Oh, god, please. He didn't hear. He didn't hear.' "Good morning, Agents. Agent Mulder, did you and Agent Scully have a chance to go over the file you picked up last night?" Skinner asked with a distinct tone of disapproval in his voice. They had been on the recieving end of that tone too many times not to know. 'Oh, shit he did hear.' "Um......Yes sir, Agent Scully and I went over the file, but we wanted to look through a couple of others that were sent to me a few weeks ago, but of course they may or may not have anything to do with this case, but Agent Scully and I are on top of it and we will have something to report by this afternoon. We.........." 'No. No. Shut up, Mulder.' Skinner waved his hand, putting an end to Mulder's rambling. He pinched the bridge of his nose and shook his head. He cleared his throat and adjusted his glasses. "That's fine, Mulder. Agent Scully?" Skinner waited until she pulled herself together and turned in her chair to face him. "Yes sir?" she inquired hoping her voice did not betray her thoughts as well as the blush crossing her face. "You'll be doing an autopsy on the latest victim. Agent Scully, are you alright?" "No, Sir. I mean yes, sir," she replied quickly. "When will the body arrive at Quantico, or do I need to go over there now?" She mentally kicked herself and glanced back at Mulder. He was no help at all. 'Thanks partner' "Well actually, the body will not be shipped to Quantico. You will need to leave this afternoon. They will have everything ready for you on Monday morning." "But sir, this afternoon? Why this afternoon since they won't have the body ready until Monday morning? I don't understand and where will I be going?" Skinner's hand went up once more, but this time to stop Scully's rambling. "Sir, is it really necessary for Scully to leave this afternoon? Where will she have to go? Will I be going with her?" Mulder asked as he shifted uncomfortably in his chair. Scully didn't like the idea of being separated from Mulder and knew he would feel the same. Scully frowned as she watched Skinner's eyes crinkle at the corners and his shoulders shake. She looked back to find Mulder looking at her, then she turned her eyes to Skinner and back to Mulder. Did Skinner just chuckle? They both looked back to Skinner. "Sir?" they said at the same time. Skinner shook his head, and smiled as he reached into his coat pocket, pulled out an envelope and handed it to Mulder. Scully got up and moved around to Mulder's side. Mulder pulled some tickets from the envelope, staring at the contents. They both looked up at Skinner with questioning eyes. Skinner shoved his hands in his pockets, shuffled his feet, exhaled loudly and cleared his throat before speaking again. "Mulder, Scully. I know how hard the last case was on both of you, as well as the past year and a half. I won't pretend that I don't know how much it has affected both your work and personal relationship. I wanted to do something to....well I.....Kim has made all the arrangements. Your flight is at 1p.m. Scully, you will not have to report to the Coroners office until 10 a.m. Monday morning. Mulder you will report to the local law enforcement around 11 a.m. Kim is finishing up the paper work on the file as we speak. You can stop by my office and pick it up on your way out. I have some work to do, so get out of here and I don't want to see the both of you until the following Monday morning at.....let's say 10 a.m?" he said, a slight blush that crossed his cheeks and went straight to the top of his bald head. Not giving them a chance to respond, he turned and started toward the open door. It looked like he wanted to make his getaway before it got too uncomfortable. But he stopped at the door and without looking back, took a deep breath. "You have done more than your fair share around here and have had much more heartbreak than either of you deserve. I just wanted to show my appreciation to... I ..." he paused for a moment, obviously trying to gather the courage and the words. Mulder and Scully looked at each other silently. Mulder got up and quietly walked toward Skinner. "Sir." Putting a hand on Skinner's shoulder he simply said, "Thank you, Sir, from both of us." Skinner's shoulders jerked as he hung his head. "Mulder, I know I'm sending you both on an assignment, but I....I also wanted you to take the time to enjoy yourselves as well." He took a deep breath, nodded and walked down the hall to the elevator. Mulder watched as their boss made a quick retreat and then turned back to Scully as the elevator doors closed. "Mulder," she quietly said. She looked down with tear rimmed eyes at the envelope she held with trembling hands. Crossing the room quickly, he draped his arm across her shoulder. He reached up and lifted her chin. Seeing the tears pool and spill from the corners of her eyes, he gently brushed them away with his lips and then smiled. "Scully, come on, you go get the file from Kim and I'll gather what files we'll need from here. We'll take my car and leave yours here in the garage. Then we'll go by your place so you can pack and then you can come with me to my place and pack for me." With that he got a genuine full fledged Scully smile. "In your dreams, Mulder." He placed both of his hands on either side of her face and gently kissed her lips. "Mulder, someone could come in," she protested trying to pull away. "Let them. I think Skinner already knows anyway." Scully kissed him firmly on the lips and then smiled. She tossed the envelope on the desk and hurried out the door while Mulder gathered up the files they would need. A short time later, Scully walked through the door and found Mulder slumped over in his chair, his elbows resting on his knees, running a trembling hand across his face. Scully instantly became alarmed and quickly went to his side. She ran her fingers through his hair and called his name softly. "Mulder? What's wrong?" "I'm all right Scully. Just a little overwhelmed, I guess. I found this in the envelope with the tickets," he said, handing her the note. She reached out, took the note and read it quickly. Fox and Dana, Have a great time and thank you. A.D. Skinner She smiled when she saw their first names penned in Skinner's handwriting. "Come on Mulder, lets get out of here." "Yeah, lets go home." Mulder returned the tickets to the envelope and carefully put them away. Picking his briefcase up and handing Scully hers, he placed his hand at the small of her back and lead her out the door. They smiled at one another as he locked the door behind them. ~x~x~x~x~ Skinner stood looking out across the city from his office window. He removed his glasses and wiped his eyes. As he returned his glasses to the bridge of his nose, he saw a familiar car drive out of sight. He continued to stare out the window as he thought back on the many times he had intervened on their behalf during some of the most dangerous and difficult cases *he* had ever come across. The many sleepless nights worrying if he had made the right decisions and what consequences he would have to face in the future. As he looked back now, he would not change a single moment, no matter what the future may hold. Mulder and Scully, although cautious, had trusted him with their lives and in return trusted them with his. "Thank you," he whispered. Turning back to his desk, he punched the familiar button on the phone. Kim came through the door with a smile. "Did you take care of everything?" he asked her. "Yes, Sir, everything has been arranged." "Thank you, Kim." Skinner gave her a mischievious smile, causing her to giggle as she closed the door behind her. "Thank you, Agents," he whisperd to himself once more. Returning to his chair he released a contented sigh and smiled. Now back to work. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 4 ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 1 Part 5 ~x~x~x~x~ Isle of Anegada Virgin Islands Friday 3 p.m. At the kitchen sink, Ninos hummed to herself, preparing the evening meal. She looked out the kitchen window and frowned when she noticed a girl running toward the house. As the little one came closer, Ninos recognized her. "Enya," she whispered. Wiping her hands quickly, she ran to the front door, onto the porch and down the steps. As she rounded the corner of the house, Enya rushed into her waiting arms. Ninos cradled the little girl against her breast and gently lowered to the ground, shaking and breathing hard. "What is it, Enya? Please tell me," she pleaded with the girl. "Rey, come quick." Rey rushed out of the house, taking the steps two at a time. When he reached his wife, the small girl looked up at him with sad eyes as he knelt down beside her. Catching her breath, she whispered," They found his boat." She paused for a moment. "But they did not find him on the boat." Rey closed his eyes in prayer as tears rolled down his cheeks. His knees dug into the earth as he watched the girl through watery eyes. Enya wiggled out of Ninos' arms and stood before him. She gently laid her hand across his cheek and wiped the tears away with her fingers. "They found him on the shore. He is alive, but not awake. They took him to the village church. The doctor arranged to have him taken to the main island hospital. The doctor says to come quickly if you wish to go with him. Molina is with him now. She will go too." Rey smiled and looked at Ninos, as if to ask for her permission. She nodded her head, telling him to hurry and she would follow later. Rey gave his wife a hug and a kiss, then he and Enya made their way back to the village. Ninos closed her eyes and brought her hands to her lips, thanked the gods for their mercy in sparing the life of Monge and the sanity of her husband. She watched as Enya and Rey walked out of sight, then letting out a long breath, she quickly ran into the house to pack. She rushed around the bedroom, gathering what she and her husband would need. She also needed to make arrangements to meet her husband at the hospital, praying it would not be a long stay at Monge's bedside. ~x~x~x~x~ The village square was alive with activity, people scurrying from one place to another with the news of Monge's return. One of their own was returned to them alive. The gods and the silent sea had shown mercy this time. The Elder watched as Rey and Enya approached the church. A smile on the Elder's face was all Rey needed to know his brother was truly alive. Enya squeezed his arm and bid him goodbye. He turned, placing a gentle hand upon her cheek and thanked her with a smile. With a giggle and a blush the young girl ran down the street as Rey rushed up the steps of the church. The Elder was there to greet him with open arms and a smile. *x*x*x*x*x* End Chapter 1 Part 5 TITLE: THE SILENT SEA (2/6) AUTHOR: XPHILERNJ E-MAIL: xphilernj@aol.com RATED: NC-17 CATEGORY: MSR CLASSIFICATION: X, T KEYWORDS: Angst, Humor DISCLAIMER: : Nope, don't own 'em. CC does. I just borrow 'em. SPOILERS: Post-Milagro/S.R. 819 DISTRIBUTION: Sure, fine, whatever. Just let me know where. I want visitation rights. SUMMARY: The silent sea can be unforgiving at times, but true love is undaunting and forgiving. Author Notes: This is my very first attempt at writing an X-file adventure. The places are real but may not be true to form. I did take a few liberties with my imagination and the myth contained in this story is also the product of my warped mind. I do apologize if I have offended anyone. ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 2 Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Apartment 42 Friday Mid-Morning Mulder pulled into the vacant spot in front of his apartment building, thankful he didn't have to park half a block away. This day keeps getting better and better, he thought as he turned the car off. He nor Scully made a move to exit the car, silently reflecting on the earlier morning events. As always Skinner had come through once more. Of course, there was work involved, a case to investigate, but nine days in paradise was just too much to ask for. Realization dawned as they stared into one another's eyes, smiling. They bolted from the car at the same time, barely pausing to shut the doors. Running around the front of the car, he met her on the sidewalk. Placing his hand on the small of her back, he ushered her into the apartment building and onto the elevator. They quickly made their way to his apartment door. Mulder almost dropped the keys when Scully wedged herself between him and the door, pulling at his shirt and lightly nipping at his neck. "Scully, you keep doing that and we...won't...make it through...the..OH!...door." Mulder was finding it very hard to concentrate while trying to get the damned key into the lock. "Um, Scull...eeee" he whispered when she reached up and licked his ear lobe. "hmmmm.....Yes, Mulder" she purred in his ear. "Yes! 'Bout damned time." The key turned and the door flew open. She squealed with delight when he picked her up and carried her through the door. He latched onto her fevered lips, devouring her, exploring her mouth with his tongue. He lowered her slowly until her feet touched the floor. Mulder pulled away, locking the door. When he turned back around he froze, heart beating wildly at the sight of Scully pulling her blouse off and tossing it in the general direction of the couch, just before she disappeared down the hallway. One, two, three heartbeats. "Hey, where do you think you're going?" he shouted, running after her, shrugging his own jacket off and discarding it somewhere in the vicinity of the couch. "I'm going to get your suitcase out of the closet," she said casually. She opened the closet door to retrieve his suitcase, clad only in her bra and jeans. When Scully bent down to retrieve the suitcase, Mulder grabbed her around the waist, turned and landed on the bed. He captured her lips, eliciting soft moans, his hand caressing her flushed cheeks and down her neck to the swell of her breast. His mouth moved slowly from her lips to the sensitive skin behind her ear. "Mulder, we have to..oh.....get....mmmm....you packed." Still manipulating the tender skin, his lips traveled further down her neck to the top of her bra. He unhooked the clasp and slid his warm hand between her breasts, over her firm flat stomach, back up and over one breast. He smiled against her skin when she arched her back, pushing herself upward into his mouth. He licked and twirled his tongue around each sensitive nipple then trailed soft kisses back up to her ear. "We have two and a half hours before we have to be at the airport. I can be packed in 15 minutes." "Okay." Two minutes later, the bedroom floor was littered with discarded clothes. ~x~x~x~x~ She buttoned her blouse and tucked it neatly into her jeans. Warm, gentle hands slipped around her waist. She relaxed against his chest and wrapped her arms around his. "I'm all packed. You 'bout ready?" He kissed her cheek and hugged her close. "Mm.....hm......" she hummed. "Let me call mom and the guys before we leave." "Okay. Tell your mom hello for me and tell the guys we'll call them when we get back. Oh, and tell Frohike that I do remotely find you hot." A devilish smile played across his lips. "Mulder! You're terrible," she giggled. For the first time in a long time he was truly happy. He felt as though he had finally gotten everything his heart desired. He felt unconditionally loved and it was all because of that beautiful little redhead in the next room. "You're one lucky son-of-a-bitch," he said, smiling at the reflection as he passed the mirror. Picking up the suitcases he headed for the door. ~x~x~x~x~ Traffic was forgiving, for a change, and they reached the airport in record time. Luggage checked in, they boarded the plane and found themselves safely tucked within the confines of their seats, awaiting to depart. Scully laid her head on Mulder's shoulder with a sigh of contentment. "I love you Scully" "Hmm...love you too, Mulder." Mulder wrapped his arm around her shoulders and tucked her head against his chest. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ St. Thomas Hospital Virgin Islands Friday Night At first, the sound was unnerving. A constant beep among the silence. Its purpose, a comfort to her now, letting her know that his heart was still strong. Molina sat beside her husband's bed, holding his hand and stroking his cheek, still not fully understanding what the doctors had told her. Since Monge's arrival, he had been poked, prodded and tested. There was no reason why he should be here other than the fact that he just had not opened his eyes. The doctors couldn't understand why he did not respond. Although all outward signs led them to believe he was in a comatose state, his brain activity proved otherwise. He was simply asleep. ~x~x~x~x~ Sleep. Deep, dark and lonely. He was in a place he didn't understand and didn't care to stay in. It was as if something had taken hold and would not let go. He could hear Molina whispering loving words and the soft touch of her tiny hand stroking his cheek. Why can't I leave this place? Why won't it let me go? ~x~x~x~x~ She heard the faint click of the door. The whisper of a smile played across her lips, silent tears on her cheeks as Ninos and Rey walked in. "He will be ok, Molina. Monge is a strong man, he will be alright," Rey said, trying to reassure her as much as himself. "Rey is right, Molina, he will be alright. I will continue to pray for both of you." Ninos gave her a hug and pushed an errant strand of dark hair behind Molina's ear. "What do the doctors say?" Reynaldo asked. "They say they don't know what is wrong with Monge. Why he won't wake up." She shook her head, her body shivered as fresh tears trailed down her cheeks. " I don't understand. I don't understand why he won't wake up." "The Elder believes it has something to do with the Silent Sea," Rey quietly said. Molina's head jerked up at him, her eyes wide with fear. "No, it can't be. Not that. But Rey, he was returned alive. All the others were .." Her body shook with silent sobs. "Shhhh, it's ok. We won't talk of this anymore tonight. You need to rest," he said trying to console her as she adamantly shook her head. Reynaldo knew he had to do something. He knew she would not leave Monge to eat or sleep. At least, he could try to get her to rest. He asked Ninos to stay with her while he went to talk to the nurse. "I will be right back, okay?" He gave Molina's shoulder a gentle squeeze and stepped away. ~x~x~x~x~ A little later a young man brought a small cot in and set it up for Molina. At first she didn't want to lie down but finally gave in to her exhaustion and Rey's insistence. If she could do nothing more than hold Monge's hand, that would have to be enough for now. Molina reached up and slipped her small hand into his. She needed his warmth as a reminder that he was still with her. Listening to the steady beep of the monitor she allowed it to lull her to sleep, while Rey and Ninos settled for the night in two chairs in the corner of the room. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ St. Thomas Virgin Islands Friday Night "Welcome to the Islands. My name is Juan. How can I help you?" Mulder couldn't help but smile. "Yes, reservations for Mulder and Scully." The desk clerk typed away at the keyboard and then looked up at Mulder with a frown on his face. " Well sir, we have reservations for two in the name of Mulder. I'm sorry, no reservations listed for Scully," he said, looking at Mulder then at Scully with apologetic eyes. "Excuse me?" Scully gently grabbed Mulder's arm, then turned to the young man with a slight blush on her cheeks and a warm smile. "Sir, did you just say there are reservations for two in Mulder's name?" Juan nodded slowly and swallowed hard. "Yes miss, there is a room reserved, for nine nights. I took the call myself and I'm sorry if there is a mix up. I can check to see if we have another room available, if you wish." "That's ok, we'll take the one room," Scully said with a smile. Juan took a deep breath and exhaled dramatically. "Thank you, miss. Let's get you registered and then I'll have someone take your bags and show you to your room." Mulder showed his I.D. and signed the registration form while Juan called to have their bags picked up. "I hope you have a very nice stay. And if there is anything that we can do to make your stay more enjoyable, please don't hesitate to call the front desk. Thank you again and have a pleasant evening," he said with a jovial tone in his voice. "What are you doing and what have you done with *my* Scully?" Mulder laughed. "It's ok Mulder, Skinner booked the rooms. Remember?" Scully cocked her head and smiled up at him. "oh...OH!.....well I'll be damned." Juan snapped his fingers and another young man, waiting patiently to the side, picked up the bags. Mulder noticed the name Fernando on the young man's name tag. "Sir. Miss. Will you follow me, please?" Fernando turned then glanced back to make sure they were following. "Thank you, Fernando, lead on my good man." Mulder placed a hand at the small of Scully's back, then followed Fernando through the lobby and out the door leading to their rooms. ~x~x~x~x~ Scully stepped through the sliding glass doors opening up to the patio and overlooking the beach. She inhaled the floral fragrance and could taste the saltiness of the sea as she wrapped her arms around her waist. She shook her head with amusement, looking up at the clear night sky. They knew Skinner had his suspicions, but this was an unexpected surprise. Scully looked over her shoulder at Mulder as Fernando spoke. "If there is anything you need just call the front desk," Fernando informed Mulder. "Is the restaurant still open?" asked Mulder, pulling several bills from his pocket as he crossed the room. "Yes sir, it is. The restaurant will be open until 10 p.m. Will that be all, Sir?" "Yes, thank you," Slipping the bills into Fernando's hand, Mulder smiled and shook the young man's hand. Fernando bowed his head and backed out, closing the door behind him. Scully was still enjoying all that her senses would allow when a set of strong arms slipped around her waist. Wrapping her arms around his, she leaned into his embrace. He propped his chin atop her head, hugging her close. Then he lowered his head and whispered in her ear. "Would you like to get something to eat?" "I'm not really hungry. But there is something I would like to do." He brushed his lips across her cheek, feeling her shudder. "And what might that be." She shuddered again from the brush of his lips and cleared her throat. "I'd like to take a walk on the beach, and then take a long hot bath and then...." "Hmmm...and then?" his hushed voice in her ear again. He smiled and nipped and licked her ear, sending another tremor through her small frame. "Mulder, you keep that up and we won't make it out of this room for the next two days," she said, giggling when he groaned and squeezed her tighter. "Come on Mulder, let's go for that walk. Then we'll take that long hot bath and I'll scrub your back...and then..." She turned in his arms and gave him a peck on the lips, then pulled away, walking toward the beach. "Ah Scully...You're a cruel woman," he shouted, running after her. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder carefully slid in behind Scully as she turned the faucet off, then pulled her back against his chest. He grabbed the sponge from the side of the tub and ran it across her neck. He continued subtle strokes over her entire body, smiling at her soft moans. She took the sponge from his hand, turned and raised up on her knees, then lovingly washed his body. Satisfied, she carefully turned back around and relaxed. Letting him pull her back into his embrace once more, she breathed a sigh of contentment. When the water started to cool, she slipped out of his arms and carefully got out of the tub. She pulled a towel from the rack and slowly dried herself while Mulder reclined in the tub, watching her every move. Wrapping the towel around her small body, she slowly walked to the door. Glancing back at him over her shoulder, he could see the smile and predatory glint in her eyes. "Mulder. Are you coming?" she purred. Before he could answer, she dropped the towel and disappeared into the bedroom. He carefully stepped out of the cooling water and quickly dried himself off. Entering the bedroom, he could see her small form beneath the covers in the king- sized bed. He slid under the covers and spooned his body up behind hers, pulling her close, and teasing her with light kisses down the side of her face and neck. She turned to face him with a smile. Love, hunger and desire were evident in his voice as he whispered, "And then?" ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 4 ~x~x~x~x~ St. Thomas Hospital Saturday Morning This is different from the earlier part where we get his thoughts while he's unconscious. I still don't know what you used in the prologue and I can't access it anymore because the floppy drive is broken on my laptop. I was lucky to get the rest of the story off and onto my harddrive before it went. Anyway, I think it sounds better in the first person passive. Try reworking the earlier section so it's in line with this one. The voices were silent. Alone in the darkness, a steady beep was the only sound he heard. In the darkness, a small, soft hand held his. He longed to hear her voice, to feel her hand on his cheek. He felt a tingle on the back of his neck as every nerve seemed to awaken all at once. Memories...something or someone...he did not know. Only a mellow sweet song and a melodious voice. Singing to *him*? Taking him deeper and deeper into the darkness. He could not resist and followed the beautiful voice. Something was in the back of his mind, struggling to get free. Through the darkness he could see her. Molina. His beautiful wife, stroking his face, kissing his hand, her sweet voice speaking to him softly. He could still hear the mysterious voice singing to him as he fought to keep his vision of Molina before him, but the voice was pulling him deeper and deeper into the dark abyss. The voice, the melody, was getting stronger. He was so tired of struggling against something he couldn't understand. His heart began to ache as her hand was wrenched from his grasp. 'Molina, my sweet Molina, please forgive me.' The only sound he could hear was the mysterious voice, nothing but the darkness and something he did not understand, to guide him. The voices were silent once more. Only the melodious voice and the distant sound of someone crying could be heard as he was pulled deeper and deeper into the silent abyss. ~x~x~x~x~ Daylight was just breaking through the window blinds when Rey slowly opened his eyes. He jumped to his feet when he heard Molina cry out, his heart pounding like a thousand drums within his chest. "Molina?" he said, trying not to startle her. She looked up at him with tear filled eyes. "He moved, Rey, his hand moved. While I was asleep, he jerked his hand away from mine." Monge's eyes flew open. Staring into nothing. "Molina, look." Molina looked into her husband's eyes, laying her hand on his cheek. "Monge, look at me. Please Monge, come back to me". Molina gasped and the tears began to fall again as his eyes slowly closed. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 4 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 5 ~x~x~x~x~ Sweet floral fragrances floated on the island breeze as it gently swept across Mulder's face and the sounds of the sea drifting through the open window above their bed slowly roused him awake. Scully's warm body snuggled closer to him as he slowly opened his eyes. His arms tightened around her when she moved her hips against him, holding her still. "mmmmh........morning sunshine. You ready to get up?" he whispered as he kissed his way down her neck. "Morning. Feels like someone is already up," she laughed, wiggling her hips and running her hand up his leg. "Scul....leee........" he said, pushing his hips against her. "Let's get a shower and find something to eat. I'm starving". Teasing him again, she pressed hard against him. He growled, biting her ear. She laughed, struggling against his embrace, trying to get up. "Oh, no you don't. Where do you think you're going? I'm hungry," he protested. He flipped her over and captured her lips with his. She wrapped her legs around his waist, giving herself up to his hunger. ~x~x~x~x~ Sunday afternoon Nine days on the island was a dream come true. Granted, most of their stay would involve work, but for two glorious days they roamed the streets and beaches just enjoying the scenery and each other. It was a lazy Sunday afternoon. They'd decided to cut their sightseeing trip short and spend the rest of the day at the hotel. Earlier that morning, they had agreed to go over the case files in the afternoon and then spend the rest of the evening relaxing, before starting to work on Monday. Scully stood at the open glass doors leading to the patio, watching Mulder. His long lean body was stretched out on the chaise, his only attire a pair of shorts. Her eyes roamed from his feet up his legs to his muscular chest, to rest on his face. Smiling to herself she padded, barefoot, to his side. "Hey G-man, is there enough room for me?" He cocked his head sideways, opened one eye and grinned. Without a word he moved to one side and let her slide in next to him. He draped an arm over her shoulder, his hand moving across her waist and settling on her hip. She placed her hand on his chest above his heart and smiled. She fell asleep in his arms to sounds of the surf, the warmth of the afternoon sun and the caress of the gentle island breeze. ~x~x~x~x~ Later that afternoon Files were scattered across the bed with Mulder stretched out on the right side, leaning against the headboard and Scully sitting with her legs crossed on the left. They had been going through the files for about an hour when Mulder pulled off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. He laid his head back against the headboard, noticing a frown on Scully's face. Leaning over, he propped his chin on her shoulder. "Whats up, G-Woman?" "I'm not quite sure, Mulder. I have read over this file several times and this is so strange." She shook her head pulling her glasses off and rubbing her eyes with both hands. "Strange is good. What did you find?" He reached over with his right hand and massaged her leg. "Well first of all, there is no discernible cause of death. According to this report, he was tossed overboard, disappeared and then found two days later, dead on the beach. The coroner on file reported no water in the lungs. He did not drown. There were no bruises, no cuts or abrasions of any kind. He was a young man, in good health, with no signs of sickness or disease. As far as I can see, they ran every test that should have been run and found nothing. Mulder, according to this report, this young man should still be alive." He reached over and picked up several files. "Okay Mulder, what did *you* find?" she said, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms. "Just this. As I told you before, someone sent me these files several weeks ago. I haven't had a chance to go through them until now. But, they all say the same thing, Scully. All were young men that should still be alive. Tomorrow, you'll meet with the coroner and then we both can meet with the locals. Maybe if we ask the right questions, we might get some answers." He shrugged his shoulders, placing his hand back on her leg and continued to massage. Scully reached down, taking his hand in hers, kissing the palm and then closing her eyes as he stroked her cheek with the pad of his thumb. "Mulder, I don't understand. This makes no sense to me. There has to be something they missed." "Scully why don't we put these files away for now. Go get something to eat, take a walk on the beach, soak in a hot bubble bath...and then," he said in a low, husky voice. "hmmm...and then?" she purred. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 5 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 6 ~x~x~x~x~ Isle of Anegada Sunday Night The Elder sat alone on top of a hill looking out across a calm, quiet sea as the sun dropped below the horizon and the moon shone brightly above. He smiled. The Elder loved the sea, especially at night when he would venture to the top of the hill to watch the moon and sea dance together, as if waiting for the sun to rest before stealing away into the night. The island breeze stirred and dipped, light as a feather, teasing the face of the sea. The sea was as intimate to him as his own breath. He could feel her anger as the storms rolled in and her joy as the summer breezes caressed her face. By day, she embraced the sun and basked in its warmth. She played along the beach, sliding in and then moving out slowly, tickling and teasing its sandy shore. By night, she embraced the darkness with only the moonlight to guide her way. The Elder sat silently watching the sea and remembered a place where time stood still. He remembered a young woman with hair as red as the setting sun, eyes as blue as the sky and a smile that would light even the darkest night. An angelic voice with a spirit wild and free, only held back by the boundaries of her universe. She held a passion for life and compassion for every living thing. The young beauty's name was Danayah. During the day, she would bathe in the cool waters as the sun warmed her porcelain skin. At night, she would walk along the shore as the moonlight and cool evening breeze danced across her face. One day, Danayah chanced to meet a young man. William was lean, tall with soft dark hair, eyes as green as clover, a smile that pierced her heart and a voice that was soft and sultry. He had a compassion for every living thing, but there was a sadness in his eyes and his heart that she wanted to forever erase. He loved the sea and would stand alone at the top of the hill, watching Danayah, longing for something he had lost long ago. They were told theirs was a match that could never be. A love that would never grow. Despite all the obstacles and objections, their love grew proud and strong. Finally came the time when he told her how he had lost someone close to him. He needed to leave and then, only then, could he feel he deserved the peace he had desperately searched for and found with her. With a heavy heart, she bid him goodbye and a safe journey. He promised he would return on the eve of her thirtieth birthday. As his boat drifted out of sight, Danayah prayed for his safe return. Time passed agonizingly slow. Danayah would walk alone to the top of the hill and watch as the sun dipped below the horizon and the moon came out to dance with the sea. Her hauntingly angelic voice could be heard along the shores and down the hillside, singing a song of lost love forever searching. Then the sea would calm, the soft island breeze would cease to blow. On the eve of her birthday she sat on the hill staring out across the sea of blue watching and waiting. The wind played across her still body and the sun warmed her face as she prayed for her love to return. By the time night fell, her heart ached as she sang one last time. On her thirtieth birthday, with a broken heart and a spirit searching for the other half of her soul, Danayah walked into the sea, never to be seen again. As the story was told, every thirty years the sea would calm, the gentle island breeze would cease to exist and the calm sea would glow as red as the setting sun. The islanders believed the melody of Danayah's haunting voice would lure their young men to the sea. They would disappear into the ocean, only to be returned with their hearts no longer beating. A shadow crossed the old man's face when he thought back on the stories he had heard. Sadness filled his watery eyes, thinking of the many that the sea had taken from him. For as long as he could remember, the stories told of how young men were sacrificed to the sea. The sea had been kind to the village, always providing for their needs, just as they had always been very careful in taking only what they needed and nothing more. His people were afraid of the seas' raging vengeance upon the village. He slowly rose to his feet and stood on shaky legs. Before him, Danayah's image was as clear as if he could reach out and touch her. He could see the soft red glow of her hair as a soft white light danced across her breast, her gentle breath caressing his face and playing through his hair. With a sad smile he softly whispered, "Soon, Danayah, Soon". He turned and slowly walked back up the path from which he came. Behind him the sea was calm and the island breeze ceased to exist once more. ~x~x~x~x~x~ End Chapter 2 Part 6 TITLE: THE SILENT SEA (3/6) AUTHOR: XPHILERNJ E-MAIL: xphilernj@aol.com RATED: NC-17 CATEGORY: MSR CLASSIFICATION: X, T KEYWORDS: Angst, Humor DISCLAIMER: : Nope, don't own 'em. CC does. I just borrow 'em. SPOILERS: Post-Milagro/S.R. 819 DISTRIBUTION: Sure, fine, whatever. Just let me know where. I want visitation rights. SUMMARY: The silent sea can be unforgiving at times, but true love is undaunting and forgiving. Author Notes: This is my very first attempt at writing an X-file adventure. The places are real but may not be true to form. I did take a few liberties with my imagination and the myth contained in this story is also the product of my warped mind. I do apologize if I have offended anyone. ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 3 Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ St. Thomas Virgin Island Monday morning The realization of another work day came rushing in on the cool damp morning breeze and a light rain that had begun to fall just before dawn. She was slowly roused by the sound of gentle rain and the damp, cool air on her skin. She snuggled into the warmth of a familiar blanket wrapped around her small body. She turned within his arms and placed her head on his chest, listening to the slow, steady beat of his heart. She lightly kissed the spot above his heart, raised her head, and whispered against his cheek. "I love you Mulder and always will." Behind his closed eyes the tears began to form. A single tear escaped and rolled down his cheek to her lips. She wiped the tear away with light butterfly kisses across his face. "Oh Scully, I love you so much." Mulder cupped her face with his gentle hands and kissed her tenderly. Pulling back, he looked deep within her brilliant blue eyes and there he found the truth and love he longed for so desperately. He placed his hands around her waist and rolled her onto her back. He raised up and moved over her settling his hips between her thighs. As she wrapped her legs around his waist, he slowly entered her, sinking deep within. He captured her lips and began to move. ~x~x~x~x~ Juan quietly went about his morning routine. A huge smile lit up his face as the two agents approached the desk. "Have you enjoyed your visit so far?" he asked with a goofy grin. "Yes, thank you," Scully said. "Is there something I can help you with this morning?" "Actually we need directions and a car," Mulder said. Scully handed Mulder a slip of paper with the addresses needed for the morning appointments. "Sure, I can help you with both. First, where do you need to go? Mulder passed the slip of paper to him. "Okay," Juan continued, "then we'll check on the car rental." " Juan squatted down behind the desk, tongue between his teeth, eyebrows knitted together, mumbling to himself. He shuffled papers around until he found what he was looking for. He waved some papers in the air and almost lost his balance, grabbing the counter, then pulling himself upright. "Here it is. A map of the area. Actually, these addresses are not too far from here." Juan marked the locations on the map and handed it to Scully. He pulled out the car rental forms and began filling them out with the help of Mulder's I.D. Mulder signed the form and Juan turned the keys over to him with the location to the car. "Thank you for your help, Juan." "Is there anything else I can help you with today? Mulder looked at Scully with a mischievous glint in his eye. He turned back to Juan, then glanced around to see if anyone else was in the lobby. Mulder casually leaned against the counter. Juan slowly moved forward with wide eyes. Scully cocked her head, raised a brow and placed a hand to her mouth to hide a smile that was spreading quickly across her face. "Agent Scully and I are here on official business, strictly confidential. You can't say a word to anyone about our conversation. You understand?" Mulder kept his voice even and low as he spoke to the wide eyed young man. Juan's mouth flew open and he slowly nodded his head. "We are here on a case involving the deaths on Anegada. We're looking for anyone who might have some information that would help with the investigation. Do you know of anyone that would be willing to talk with us?" Juan stood straight up, frowned and tapped his bottom lip with his index finger. Suddenly his face lit up and the goofy grin spread across his lips once more. "Yeah, I do know someone who might be willing to talk to you." Juan leaned in close to Mulder and spoke in a low voice. "I'll call her and see if she can come by when she gets off work. I'm sure she would be willing to help." "She? And what would her name be?" Mulder asked with a smile. "Oh, sorry, Agent Mulder. Her name is Junetta," "That's ok, Juan. This Junetta, would she be someone that we would need to.....um.....investigate?" "No, man, she's my girlfriend. She gets off work around 4:30. I'll give her a call and have her come by here. Then she can meet with you, say around 5:30?" He cocked his head grinning at Mulder with a twinkle in his eye. "Thanks Juan, 5:30 it is." as he shook Juan's hand. Juan stood, watching the agents leave the lobby. "Hey Juan, what was that all about?" Fernando asked. Startled at first, then checking to make sure the agents couldn't hear, Juan eagerly began telling Fernando about his conversation with the F.B.I. agents, forgetting about the promise he had just made. ~x~x~x~x~ With his arm draped around her shoulders, Mulder led Scully through the lobby and out the door. Scully looked up and smiled. "Mulder, You're terrible. You don't really think Juan will keep his mouth shut, do you?" He glanced over his shoulder to see an animated Juan in deep conversation with Fernando. Mulder laughed as he closed the hotel door. "Nah, Scully. Didn't expect him to. I like Juan. Thought I would play around with him a little. At least we did get something." "I don't know Mulder." "Come on. It wouldn't hurt to hear what she has to say." "Alright, but don't make anymore plans for tonight. After meeting with the Coroner, talking to the locals which I'm sure will take up a lot of our time, and then meeting with Junetta, I'm gonna need....." Scully's voice trailed off as she opened the car door. Mulder gave her a sly grin and replied, "You're gonna need.....?" Flashing him a sultry smile, she slipped into the front seat and closed the door, leaving a stunned Mulder with his mouth hanging open. "Damn, Scully." Grinning and shaking his head, he opened the door and slid in beside her. Scully turned her head, biting her lip as he squirmed and shifted the front of his pants. "You could've......" She smiled, reached over and squeezed his leg, eliciting a deep groan. "You're an evil woman, Scully," he growled. She chuckled as Mulder started the car and drove away. ~x~x~x~x~x~ End Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ St. Thomas Police Department Monday 11:15 a.m. The early morning rain had come and gone, leaving behind a damp breeze heated by the mid-morning sun. Sgt. Torres wiped his sweaty brow with the back of his hand. As he hung up the phone, he looked up, noticing a young couple walk through the door. 'A nice looking couple. Must be tourists' he thought, smiling as they approached his desk. "Can I help you with something?" he politely asked, rising to his feet. Pulling their badges from their pockets and holding them up, Mulder responded. "Agents Mulder and Scully. We're here to see Captain Cordero." Sgt. Torres stared at them for a moment, then blinked and nodded, pointing them in the general direction of the Captains office. "Why thank you comma Sgt. Torres." Scully replied, smiled sweetly as they turned and walked down the corridor. Sgt. Torres shook his head as they walked away. He had never seen agents from the states quite like these two. 'But, how did she know my name?' He thought for a moment then popped his blushing forehead with the palm of his right hand. 'You idiot, your name tag.' He fell heavily into his chair, shaking his aching head. ~x~x~x~x~x~ The agents walked the short distance down the corridor and knocked on the door. After a brief moment and a muffled reply, Mulder opened the door and followed Scully inside. The older man sitting behind the desk stood and met them at the door. "Ah, you must be Agent Mulder." The older man reached out and shook Mulder's hand with a firm grip. "And this must be Agent Scully. A.D. Skinner neglected to tell me what a beautiful woman you are." Captain Cordero lightly kissed the back of her hand. "Thank you, Captain Cordero. And it's just Scully and this is Mulder. We would like to apologize for being late. Our meeting with the coroner took longer than we expected." Mulder shifted restlessly and cleared his throat. 'This guy better let go of her hand before I feed it to him for lunch.' Scully gave Mulder a glare of warning when she saw the look on his face. The Captain released her hand and returned to his desk, waving his hands in the air. "No need to apologize, Scully. Have a seat, and please call me Tony. Everyone else does." The two agents sat in the wooden chairs that were angled in front of the Captain's desk. It was rare that the local law enforcement treated them with such kindness and enthusiasm. 'But of course, the day is still young and this guy is getting way too friendly with my Scully,' Mulder thought to himself. "Now Mulder, Scully, as you know, your Assistant Director informed me Thursday of your arrival and...." Catching the look between the agents he paused and stared at the two. Mulder and Scully exchanged a smile then turned their attention back to Tony. "...and I have to tell you, I'm glad they finally sent someone from Washington out. After this last one was found alive......well....we just didn't know what to think anymore. I'm grateful for whatever assistance you can give." "Excuse me, Tony, we were told the last victim was found dead on the beach last week," Scully said, confused. "No...Oh, I'm sorry. How *could* you know? Just a moment." He picked up the phone and dialed. "Vic, bring me the file on Saldago." Shaking his head, replaced the receiver, the looked back to the agents. "I didn't find out about this last one until late Friday night." Sgt. Torres knocked on the door and entered, handing the file to Cordero. Tony then handed the file to Mulder who skimmed through it and handed it to Scully. She scanned the file and, with one eyebrow raised, she looked into Mulder's eyes. He nodded his head slightly and she turned to the Captain. "Sir....um.....Tony we will be more than happy to help in any way that we can. Would you mind letting us have a copy of this file and any other information that we might not already have? Mulder and I will go through what you do have and make note of what we need copied." "Of course. Vic will get whatever you need." Tony picked up the phone once more and Vic was back in the office in a flash. "Vic, I need a complete copy of this file. And then I need you to get the files on the other three related cases and take them to the interrogation room. Mulder and Scully will be there shortly. Oh, and thank you Vic." Sgt. Torres nodded and quickly left. Tony turned his attention back to Scully. "Now is there anything else that I could help you with?" Before Scully could respond, Mulder abruptly spoke, irritation lacing his voice. "Actually, could you contact the family of Mr. Salgado and make arrangements for Scully and me to talk with them tomorrow morning around 10:30?" "Of course, I'll call them while you are here and I should have an answer for you before you leave." Giving Mulder a quick glance, Scully clasped her hands in her lap staring at them as the testosterone bounced around the room. She looked back up into Mulder's eyes. Seeing the look in her eyes, he bowed his head with a slight blush. 'You're a damned fool.' Shaking his head, he slowly got to his feet. "Thank you Tony, we appreciate your cooperation." Mulder reached out and shook the man's hand as Tony got up from his chair. Scully nodded and turned to leave. Mulder placed his hand on her lower back and escorted her out of the office. ~x~x~x~x~ Sgt. Victor Torres was an anxious little man, eagerly running errands and fetching coffee for the two agents. He had never met anyone quite like these two. The officials or government agents he had come across in the past had always been distant to the point of ignoring him. These two were kind and pleasant, taking the time to pay attention to him and say thank you. With Vic's help, Mulder and Scully spent the next two hours going through the files. Scully read over each coroner's report making note of everything that needed copying. Mulder read through the police reports, making notes as well. Vic had been quietly going in and out of the office when he noticed Scully had pulled her glasses off, pinched the bridge of her nose and then gently rubbed her temples. When the agents were almost through the last file, Vic saw Mulder glancing over at his partner when she started rubbing her temples again. Mulder closed the folder he was working on, retrieved the coroner reports she had been reading and laid them on top of the others. Vic could see the pain on Scully's face as she wearily nodded at her partner. Upon Mulder's request he quickly retrieved the information they would need for their visit with the Salgado family on Tuesday. The two agents shook his hand and politely thanked him for all his help. A huge smile spread across his blushing face as he slowly backed out of the room. ~x~x~x~x~x~ It was a little after 2:00 when they finally left the station with files in hand. Mulder noticed a frown on Scully's face as he opened her door and she got into the car. He tossed the files into the back seat, then gently closed her door. Opening the driver side door, he got in, again closing it gently. He reached over and started rubbing the back of her neck. Her eyes were closed as she massaged her sore temples. "Bad headache?" His soft voice was thick with concern. "mmmh......Mulder could we go back to the room? I just need to lie down for a little while before we meet with Junetta at 5:30." "Sure, we can do that." "Thanks." He started the car and headed for the motel. By the time they arrived, her headache had gotten worse. He quickly opened her door and picked her up, cradling her against his chest. "Mulder, I can walk." She couldn't mask the pain lacing her weak voice. When she saw the determined look on his face she sighed and laid her head against his shoulder. After careful maneuvering, he inside and kicked the door shut. He gently sat her down on the edge of the bed. He slipped the shoes from her feet then began unbuttoning her blouse. "Mulder, don't. You go get something to eat. You've only had coffee since this morning. I can do this." Her voice was laced with pain and frustration. He looked into her watery, red-rimmed eyes and shook his head. "Scully, I will eat when you eat. Will you please let me take care of you?" he pleaded. She simply placed her hand on his cheek and nodded. Quickly but carefully he pulled her blouse from the waist of her skirt. With shaky hands, he unbuttoned her blouse, slid it off and threw it to the side. Standing her up, he unzipped her skirt, letting it slide down her hips to pool at her feet. She stepped out of the skirt while he pulled the covers back so she could slip between the cool sheets. He quickly gathered her clothes, folding and placing them on a chair in the corner of the room. Mulder retrieved two aspirin from her bag and a bottle of water from the small refrigerator. After she swallowed the aspirin, he took the bottle and placed it on the night stand. He then undressed and slid under the covers to spoon his body behind hers, sliding his arm under her head. With a gentle loving hand, he lightly massaged her temple. "mmmmh....feels good....Mulder, you need to eat something." "We will later, Scully. You rest now." He continued massaging her temple and forehead until she finally fell asleep. Only then did he allow himself to relax and follow. ~x~x~x~x~ Monday Late afternoon The silence of the night surrounded her as she slowly walked to the top of the hill. An eerie feeling washed over her. No sound. No gentle warm breeze. The sea was calm as the moonlight danced across its face. Below the surface a light as red as the setting sun was getting brighter and brighter as if reaching for the surface where the moonlight played. She wrapped her arms around her waist as her body began to shake. A man stood on the sandy beach, a silhouette in the moonlight. The lone figure watched the red glow touch the light of the moon. Fear clutched her heart and squeezed. "Mulder," she whispered when his face was caught by the light. Without a second thought, her feet began to move. She suddenly found herself running along the water's edge, calling his name. "Mulder! Mulder!" * Why can't he hear me?* she thought, her heart beating harder and faster. Mulder slowly walked closer and closer to the water's edge. Eerie music surrounded her as she ran toward him. Fear gripped tighter around her heart as she watched him disappear into the silent sea. She dropped to her knees, covering her ears, and screamed. "Mulder! Noooooo!" ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder was startled awake to the sound of her screams, his heart beating hard and fast within his chest. She jerked violently in his arms, screaming his name. "Mul....der! Noooooooo!" "Scully.......Dana wake up. It's okay. I'm here." He held her close, gently stroking her cheek as her body continued to shake. "Dana, wake up". She turned in his embrace and pulled him close as she wrapped her arms around his waist. She buried her head against his chest, as if only to hear his heartbeat, and cried. . "Shhhh...it's okay. I'm here." He hugged her shaking body as her tears dampened his chest. "Dana.....talk to me. What is it? What's wrong?" he pleaded unable to hide the fear and worry in his voice. "I'm okay, " she whispered. "No. You're not alright. Please talk to me." "It was just a dream. A stupid dream." She looked up into his worried eyes and stroked his cheek, pleading with her own eyes. He closed his eyes and sighed, worry still etched on his face as he looked into her eyes once more. He hugged her close, letting it go for now. He continued to hold her until she relaxed in his arms. "Better?" he asked her quietly. "A little tired, but my headache is gone." Her stomach rumbled beneath him and they chuckled at the sound. "Sounds like you're more than just tired. How about we get dressed and go get something to eat before we meet with Junetta?" "Okay, but don't forget, I do have plans for you tonight." She kissed the spot on his chest just above his heart. He groaned into her hair. "Scully, you keep that up and I won't be held responsible for missing that meeting," he growled in her ear. She laughed and slipped out of bed. They showered and quickly got dressed. As he closed the door to their room, she turned to him with a smile, looking into his questioning eyes. She placed her hand on his cheek and ran her thumb across his lips. "I love you." He lovingly smiled at her but for a moment, a little tug of worry crept into his heart. He could still see a hint of fear and uncertainty in her eyes as he kissed her softly and whispered back. "I love you too." ~x~x~x~x~ The Garden Restaurant Island Beach Comber Motel Monday 5:30 p.m He watched her closely, stealing little glances when he thought she wasn't looking. She did seemed more relaxed, but that stubborn worry streak kept niggling at him. He poked and pushed his food around on his plate until a small hand stilled his movements. He slowly looked up into a pair of brilliant blue eyes, eyes that held so much emotion. Fear, worry, stubbornness and.... "Mulder, stop it. I'm alright, really. Quit worrying so much. Just enjoy your meal. Junetta will be here shortly." She looked at him closely and sighed when his face finally relaxed into a small smile. "Okay, Scully. I'll try. But you will tell me about it later, right?" "Mulder, I don't remember but bits and pieces," she said, gently squeezing his hand. Mulder knew there was more that she wanted to say. He placed his free hand on top of hers. His shoulders slumped slightly in defeat. "I understand, Scully, but if you talk about it, talk to me about it, maybe it will help. I know I'm pushing here but...it scares me, Scully. You haven't had nightmares this bad for awhile now. At least not with me." "Mulder, look at me." He looked into her teary eyes and his heart skipped a beat. "When I am with you, I have no reason to have nightmares. You fill my dreams each night with a passion that is sometimes overwhelming. I awake each morning to your beautiful smile." She stopped to let him absorb what she had said and then continued. "I won't lie to you, the dream frightened me more than I want to admit. But I need a little time. I *need* to try and understand why. I do love you Mulder and I don't want to keep anything from you. I just need a little more time." She captured his eyes as she had his heart and asked for his understanding and patience. "Alright Scully." He leaned over and kissed her lips. "Let's finish up here. Juan said Junetta would meet us at the Beach bar around 5:30 or so." He could see her face slowly relax as she stubbornly pushed the fear and worry aside. He would have to be patient. Until she could figure it out herself, he would just have wait. But not for long. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 4 ~x~x~x~x~ Beach Bar Island Beach Comber Monday 5:30 p.m. As the sun touched the horizon, casting a brilliant orange and red glow, they watched the moon and sun compete for the seas' attention. They sat side by side in silence as the sun slowly disappeared into the sea. With his arm draped across her shoulders, he felt her shiver. Chancing a sideways glance at her, he could see a shadow of uncertainty cross her face before she closed her eyes. He did not ask but simply pulled her close and kissed her cheek. Mulder glanced at the door and then squeezed her shoulder. He noticed the young woman standing at the door was small in stature with long light brown hair, tucked behind her left ear and flowing across her right shoulder. She had brilliant green eyes that twinkled with mirth and her skin was smooth and tanned by the island sun. She was smiling as she approached the table and introduced herself as she sat down. "Hi, I'm Junetta Rochon. Juan said you wanted to talk with me." Her voice was soft as she spoke. "Nice to meet you, Junetta. I'm Mulder and this is Scully. Actually Juan said you might be able to help us." "I'm not sure what you need, but I'll help if I can." A young man stopped at their table, took their order and scurried away. Mulder crossed his arms and placed them on the table in front of him. "Juan seems to think you might be able to help us with our investigation. Could you tell us why?" "I have an uncle that lives on Anegada. I spent a couple of days with him about a week and a half ago. While I was there he told me about two of the young men from the village. He said they disappeared into the water and were later found on the beach. That is why you are here, isn't it?" Mulder nodded his head and paused as the waiter set their drinks on the table and left. Mulder could see in Junetta's eyes that she was holding something back. Scully glanced at Mulder. He knew by the look in her eyes that Scully suspected the same. "Junetta, what else did your uncle say?" Scully asked, sipping her tea. Mulder spoke up before she could answer. "Does your uncle know how they died?" With a frown on her face she shook her head. "No, but...." Mulder watched as she ran her fingers up and down the sides of her glass. She shifted slightly in her chair, biting the inside of her cheek. "Junetta, what do you want to tell us?" he asked. She jerked her head up at the sound of his voice. Looking at the two agents, she cleared her throat. "You have to understand. The people on these islands have their own ideas and beliefs about life and death. When something strange or unexplained happens they turn to these beliefs. Even if they don't understand them." She shrugged. "What do they believe?" Mulder asked. Sitting up and squaring her shoulders, she took a deep breath and continued. "When I was small, my uncle told me the legend of The Silent Sea. He said this story has been told by the Elder of the village since he was young. It has been passed down from one generation to another. I was told the Elder strongly believes in this legend." She appeared to relax a little as Mulder leaned toward her. "I don't remember the whole story, just bits and pieces. But what I do remember are the chills I got when he described the sea. He said the water would stir around a red glow. Then a white light would shine above the surface and disappear. Fierce winds would blow and the rains would come." She paused for a moment to catch her breath. "I'm sorry, that's all I can remember. I wish I could tell you more. You would need to speak with the Elder to get the complete story." Mulder looked to Scully with a smile. His smile disappeared quickly as he saw the color drain from her face. "Scully, what's wrong?" Worry laced his voice as he placed his hand on her cheek. Scully's eyes were closed tight as if in pain. Her face was pale and her hand shook as she placed her fingers to her lips. She placed her hand on his and took a shaky breath. "I'm sorry, Mulder, I need to go back to the room and lie down. I think my headache has decided on a return engagement." He closed his eyes for a moment and slightly nodded his head. "Okay, Scully. You go on and I'll be right behind you," he said softly as he gently stroked her cheek. Scully rose, apologized to Junetta and slowly walked out of the bar a little unsteadily. "Is she going to be alright? I hope I didn't upset her," Junetta said, watching Scully walk away. "No, you didn't upset her. She had a really bad headache earlier. She'll be alright once she rests for awhile. Thank you for talking with us. Can we call you again if we have any more questions?" "Yes...yes of course. You can contact me through Juan if you wish." She looked up with thoughtful and apologetic eyes and said, "Please tell her I hope she feels better soon." "Thank you, I will." They both stood and Mulder escorted her out of the bar. ~x~x~x~x~ He rushed back to their room, turned the knob and slipped through the door. He walked toward the bed and found her lying on her back with her right arm draped across her eyes. He stood there watching her for a moment, his teeth worrying his bottom lip. He stretched out beside her and laid his hand across her heart. "Scully," he whispered. He could feel her heart beating beneath his hand. She had moved her arm onto the pillow above her head and looked into his eyes. He wanted her to tell him. Why was it so hard? But deep down he knew why. After some of the cases they had investigated he expected the dreams to come. Those he knew she would cope with on her own. But this was different. This was not an ordinary dream. Looking deep within her brilliant blue eyes, he could see the fear seeking to control her. Beneath his hand, her heart beat faster. At times, he could look deep into her soul and take comfort in the love he found there. This time he saw something that frightened him. A whirlpool of emotions, threatening to pull her under. Losing her had been his greatest fear, one that shook him to the core. He could not and would not lose her this way. "Scully please, whatever it is, talk to me. I can see that it's tearing you apart and it scares me. I feel like I'm losing you, losing a part of my soul. Please......please talk to me." He felt a single tear run down his cheek. "Mulder, I'm so sorry. By not telling you, I thought I was protecting you. I'm afraid of losing you. I'm sorry, I didn't realize that I was only hurting you." She placed her hand on the side of his face and wiped the dampness from his cheek as tears fell from her own eyes. "Mulder, I love you more than life itself. You will never lose me. But if I lost you, I would lose my heart and soul. Because, Mulder, you are my heart and the other half of my soul." He kissed the palm of her hand and then pulled away, getting up from the bed and holding his hand out to her. "Come on Scully, let's take a walk on the beach. If you want to talk about it, we will, if not, I'll have to be patient a little while longer." Mulder shrugged his shoulders. They walked along the beach in the bright moonlight. She told him of the dream she had when he was missing in New Mexico and that she believed this last one was a premonitory dream as well. He patiently listened as she told him of the fear she had in this dream of losing him. She wrapped her arms around his waist, laying her head against his chest. He sighed as he wound his arms around her and felt her relax within his embrace. "Mulder?" "mmmmh...." "Why don't we stop by the beach bar, get a couple of drinks? There's a big tub in our room that is just begging to be used." "Oooh, Scully. Sounds kinky." He quiped and waggled his eyebrows at her. They headed back to the room, stopping long enough to get their drinks. He hung the "Do Not Disturb" sign on the knob before locking the door. ~x~x~x~x~ End Chapter 3 Part 4 TITLE: THE SILENT SEA (4/6) AUTHOR: XPHILERNJ E-MAIL: xphilernj@aol.com RATED: NC-17 CATEGORY: MSR CLASSIFICATION: X, T KEYWORDS: Angst, Humor DISCLAIMER: : Nope, don't own 'em. CC does. I just borrow 'em. SPOILERS: Post-Milagro/S.R. 819 DISTRIBUTION: Sure, fine, whatever. Just let me know where. I want visitation rights. SUMMARY: The silent sea can be unforgiving at times, but true love is undaunting and forgiving. Author Notes: This is my very first attempt at writing an X-file adventure. The places are real but may not be true to form. I did take a few liberties with my imagination and the myth contained in this story is also the product of my warped mind. I do apologize if I have offended anyone. ~x~x~x~x~ Chapter 4 Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Tuesday Morning The island came alive with the bright morning sun, the laughter of children building sand castles, and exotic birds singing their morning songs. They were slowly awakened by the warmth of one another's embrace. A strong arm was tucked protectively under and around her waist with her body snuggled close to his, her hand resting above his heart. She lifted her head to gaze into his sleepy, smiling eyes, seeing what she had denied her heart for so long. His eyes-a kaleidoscope of color and emotion. They could be as bright as a summers day, with happiness, joy, and love playing among the fields of green, or darker than a moonlit night, with fear, sadness passion and desire lurking in the shadows. Eyes that could speak to your heart and tell you more than words ever could. She lowered her gaze to his lips and ran her fingers tenderly across them. Lips so soft and tender that lent voice to what his mind was thinking, his eyes were seeing and his heart was feeling. She wrapped her arm around his waist and laid her head on his chest. She closed her eyes and listened to the strong beat of his heart. A heart that was tender yet strong. His heart which held her life and soul, locked safely within its sturdy walls and to which he had blindly handed her the key to keep safely tucked away. The tender emotions that she had carefully hidden deep within rushed to the surface and took her breath away. Her heart began to swell and ache. Intense awareness frightened, yet excited her--a revelation so powerful and strong. He kissed the top of her head and whispered, "Good Morning, Sunshine." Not getting an answer, he cradled her in his loving arms. "Scully, are you okay?" Worry crept into his voice. She lifted her head and gazed at him with watery eyes and kissed him softly. "I'm fine, Mulder." She paused. "Do you know how much I really love you? How much you mean to me?" He rolled her onto her back and stretched his long body atop hers. He cupped her face within his hands, stroking her cheeks with his thumbs. "Scully, I want to believe so much it hurts. Can *you* believe I love you more than life itself? Can you believe that you mean more to me than anything in this world?" A tear escaped and slid beneath his hand. He kissed away each tear that fell. With a whisper she said, "Show me." ~x~x~x~x~ After they showered and dressed, they prepared for their 10:30 appointment with the Salgado family. Mulder went over a few of his notes and Scully made a call to Skinner, bringing him up to date on the case thus far. Then they gathered what they needed and headed out for a quick bite to eat. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 2 St. Thomas Hospital Tuesday 10 a.m. Rey had finally convinced Molina, with a little coaxing from Ninos, to get something to eat in the hospital cafeteria. Ninos promised that Rey would call for them if there were any changes and she would not be far away from Monge. After Ninos and Molina left the room, Rey watched his brother's face. He took Monge's hand in his and quietly spoke to him. The jerk of a hand, an occasional frown across his face and the steady beat of his heart were the only signs that life still existed within the body of his brother. "Hey brother, where are you? Molina is so worried about you. She needs you to come back to her. I need you to come back. Monge, I don't know what to do. Molina is so frantic. She's afraid of losing you. If you can hear me, hear her, listen to us. Listen to her. She loves you brother." Hhe quietly rambled on, speaking softly. Molina and Ninos returned to Monge's bedside. Molina took her place next to her husband, holding his hand and stroking his cheek. Rey reminded his sister-in-law that the two F.B.I. agents from Washington would be arriving soon to speak with them. Molina sighed and nodded her head. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 3 Mulder and Scully made their way to the nurses' station, showing their ID's and asking to speak with the Salgado family. The nurse had been informed of their impending arrival and showed them to the waiting room, then took her leave. The nurse quietly entered Monge's room. "Mrs. Salgado, the two agents are here to see you and your family. I sent them to the waiting room down the hall. I will stay with your husband while you're gone. I *will* call you immediately if there is any change. You go. He will be ok. I'll be right here." Molina hesitated and then kissed her husband on the cheek, telling him she would return soon. Rey and Ninos stood and followed her out of the room. ~x~x~ They walked the short distance to the waiting room where They found the two agents . Mulder and Scully stood as the trio entered the room. Molina felt a little anxious when she was first told the two agents wanted to speak with her. She did not understand why two agents from Washington would want to talk with her. She was surprised at first by their appearance. She had seen men from Washington on the islands before. They were usually dressed in dark suits and rarely smiled, but these two were more casually dressed than most business personnel on the island. These two were different. . Both nodded as they approached. Rey, Ninos and Molina sat on a couch in the corner of the waiting room across from the two agents Mulder and Scully returned to their seats and introduced themselves. Scully was the first to speak. "My name is Special Agent Scully and this is Special Agent Mulder. We're here to assist the local police with their investigation into the deaths of several young men. We understand they lived on the island of Anegada. Mrs. Salgado, we would like to ask you a few questions if we may." Scully's voice was soft and apologetic. Molina began to relax and with a hint of a smile she replied, "Of course. Please call me Molina. I'm not sure I can be of any help to you, Agent Scully." Mulder sat quietly watching and listening as Scully continued. "Did you know the young men? "Yes." "How did you know them?" "Because our village is so small, we know everyone and they know us. Pedro was a cousin of mine. The others, Samuel and Frederick, were friends of my husband and his brother." Molina frowned as she spoke of the young men. Scully kept her voice soft and even as she spoke. "Molina, I'm sorry for your loss. Do you have any idea how they may have died?" Molina sadly shook her head as tears began to fall. Rey gently placed his hand on Molina's arm . He glanced to Scully and then looked into Mulder's eyes. Mulder leaned forward with elbows on his knees and hands clasped together before him. Mulder looked down at his hands and then back to Rey before speaking. "Mr. Salgado, you know what happened to the three men..." he paused for a moment when Rey lowered his eyes. "...and your brother, don't you?" Mulder kept his voice soft and low. Rey's eyes met Mulder's and then closed. He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, nodding his head slightly, then answered. "I believe something unnatural caused their deaths and that is why my brother is here. There is something out there, Agent Mulder, and I do not pretend to know or understand what it is. I only know that my brother is alive and, for some reason, was spared when the others did not survive. If you want more answers you will have to speak to the Elder of our village. I believe he knows more than he has told even us." Rey looked to Mulder with pleading eyes. "I am sorry, but this is all we know. If there is nothing more, we need to check on my brother." Mulder and Scully nodded and stood as the man and two women rose and left the waiting room. ~x~x~x~ Mulder sighed and dropped his head. He'd been hoping for more. Scully's dream disturbed him more than he thought she knew. He *needed* to know more. Scully raised her eyebrow as she looked up at him. "What is it Mulder? You look a little worried and disappointed. We knew they might not be able to help. It looks as though we will need to talk to this man they call the Elder. It seems as though he might be the key." Smiling, she placed a hand on his arm and rubbed gently. She knew he was worried about her and the dream. He needed answers she could not give him. He looked at her, laying his hand on top of hers. "I'm okay Scully. I guess I was hoping for more." He shrugged his shoulders. "But I believe you're right about the Elder. He does seem to be the one person who can answer our questions. Let's go back to the motel. I'll call Captain Cordero and fill him in on what we've found out here. Maybe he can make the arrangements for us to see this Elder." He shot her a devilish grin. "You can call Skinner and update him." "Gee thanks Mulder, why do I always have to call Skinner?" Crossing her arms and raising an eyebrow. "Because he likes you. Not that I couldn't handle it..." Scully dropped her arms and turned to walk away. "Wait 'till we get back to the room, Mulder. We'll see what you can handle." She walked away as Mulder stood with his mouth open. She glanced back with a smirk. He pulled himself upright and with a seductive tone to his voice said, "Promises, promises, then followed behind her. "A promise I intend to keep." He moaned at her answer and felt her shiver as he placed his hand on the small of her back, escorting her out of the hospital. His mind reeled with all the possibilities. Again he moaned as they made their way to the car. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 4 St. Thomas Hospital Late Tuesday Afternoon Monge's Room He floated within a sea of darkness. In the distance he could see a soft red light, surrounded by an aura of pure white. He felt his body drawing closer and closer to the light. His mind was curious, but his heart was fearful of what he might find. Suddenly, his body stilled within the silent darkness of the sea. He could hear a voice speaking softly. His eyes darted from side to side. His heart beat faster and his mind raced trying to see where the voice was coming from. The voice gradually became clearer to him as he concentrated on hearing the words. Suddenly he realized that the harder he concentrated, the further away the light was. He knew that voice and smiled as he listened to his brother speak softly to him. Rey, my brother, yes, it's my brother. Monge could feel his brother's strong hand around his. 'Rey? Where are you?' He couldn't see his brother but he knew he was near. 'Rey, I want to go home, but I don't know how to get there?' His hand felt empty now. The voice of his brother gone. His body started drifting closer to the light. He felt alone and scared . 'Why am I here? Why can't I go home?' A familiar warmth spread throughout his body and straight to his heart. He knew and loved this feeling. It was as familiar as his own breath. He felt a small hand within his and soft feathery strokes across his cheek. He closed his eyes and listened to a loving voice speaking to him. His Molina, she had come to him once more. He smiled at the vision of her beautiful face his mind provided for him. He could see a sadness in her watery eyes. She continued to speak to him softly, comforting him with her love. He loved her so much, wanting to be with her more than anything. He loved her more than life itself. He opened his eyes to the darkness once more. He couldn't see her face. Couldn't see the face of his brother. Couldn't see the red glowing light. He continued to listen to his Molina's sweet voice as he felt his body drifting further and further away from the light. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 5 Beach Comber Inn Tuesday Afternoon The cool air was a welcome change from the humid, warm island breeze as they walked through the door of the inn. Mulder draped his arm across Scully's shoulders as they crossed the lobby. He suddenly stopped, seeing Juan and Junetta, and nodded his head in the direction of the front desk. "Hey Scully, look." he thoughtfully said as he chewed on his bottom lip. "I was just thinking..." his voice trailed off when he heard Scully groan. He glanced down at her with a bemused look. "Um, Mulder...that usually means we're off on another alien hunting expedition or you've decided to order pizza and settle down to watch yet another "B" rated horror movie. Which is it this time?" she asked with arms crossed and a smirk on her face. "Scully, you wound me." He grabbed her hand and placed it over his heart, giving her a pouty look. "Do I really do that?" She dropped her head for a moment and sighed. She looked back up, with mirth in her eyes and a hint of reget for her words. She shook her head and softly spoke. "No, Mulder, you don't. I was only teasing you. What were you thinking?" "I was thinking maybe Junetta can tell us who we can talk to about the Elder. I'd like to get some information on him before we head out tomorrow." She glanced over at Juan and Junetta behind the desk only to find them smiling and staring. "I think we already have their attention." She nodded toward the couple. Mulder glanced up just as Juan was whispering something in Junetta's ear. She chuckled and nodded at Juan. "Come on, let's go talk to them," he said shrugging his shoulders, pulling Scully behind him. Juan and Junetta smiled as the two agents approached the desk, holding hands. "Nice to see you again, Agent Mulder, Agent Scully." Looking to Scully, Junetta thoughtfully asked, "Are your feeling much better today? I hope I didn't upset you yesterday. I'm sorry if I did." Scully shook her head at the young woman. "I am much better today. Thank you for asking. But no, you didn't upset me. I do apologize for leaving you with that impression." "That's ok. I understand. What did you want to ask me, Agent Mulder?" she asked. "We were hoping you might be able to tell us about the Elder. I'd like to know more about him before talking with him tomorrow." He looked at herwith hope in his eyes. "Mmmm......I wish that I could, but I only met him a couple of times when I visited my uncle. I asked my uncle once about the Elder, but he just shrugged his shoulders and didn't say. I got the feeling though, he knew more than he was willing to say." Mulder knew he hadn't succeeded in hiding his disappointment when Junetta continued, "I could call him and see if he would be willing to speak with you tomorrow when you arrive. Would that help?" she asked again. giving him a shy smile. "That would be great. We should be here most of the afternoon and evening. You can reach us here. Thank you Junetta, you've been a great help." "No problem. I'll call this evening. Now, I need to get out of here and let Juan get back to work." Mulder saw Scully put her hand to her lips to keep from laughing as Juan beamed a goofy smile at his girlfriend. Juan escorted Junetta through the lobby, opened the door and stepped outside to bid her goodbye. Mulder watched the two standing outside the small Inn. He felt Scully place her hand on his arm. He turned his head toward her with a questioning look. He leaned over as she whispered in his ear. "Mul...der" she purred in his ear. "There is something I need you to take care of back in our room." Mulder's radar went up. With a leer and a husky seductive tone he asked, "And what would that be?" Tapping a finger to her lips she thoughtfully said, "Hmmm.......you do need to call Captain Cordero and I need to call Skinner and let him know where we will be tomorrow." At the fallen look on his face, she turned on her heels and headed for the side door. Mulder grunted and ran after her. "Scully? Scul...leeeee!!" Scully looked over her shoulder to see Juan standing at the lobby door snickering and Mulder hot on her heels as she made her way out the door. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder and Scully's Room Mulder unlocked the door to allow Scully to enter the room. He stepped through the door and when Scully turned just as he kicked it shut, Mulder had a predatory look on his face. Scully started backing up, with her hands on his chest. He steadily backed her toward the bed. He reached around and tugged the shirt from her skirt, swiftly yanking it up and over her head. "Mulder, I need........" she stopped and moaned as he quickly unsnapped her bra and covered a nipple with his mouth. "I need....." "You need?" he asked seductively. "Oh hell, never mind," she said, grabbing his face with both hands and pulling him up to her hungry lips. ~x~x~x~ Clothes littered the bedroom floor, two sweaty bodies entwined, as Mulder pulled Scully closer within his embrace and nibbled on her ear. "Mulder, I think we need to get up, shower and change." Mulder groaned as she kissed him on the cheek and rolled over. "Ah, Scully." "I need to call Skinner and you need to call Captain Cordero before he leaves the station." Scully got up and moved toward the bathroom as Mulder watched her closely. "Come on Mulder, get that cute ass of yours up and in the shower," she quipped and sauntered out of his sight. "But of course, I could go ahead by myself while you rest a little longer," she called out. It took him approximately two seconds for his feet to hit the floor, running to the shower. ~x~x~x~ Mulder picked up their clothes and straightened the bed as Scully talked to Skinner about the case. She filled him in on what they knew since their last communication and their upcoming trip to Anegada. Mulder turned to Scully when she became silent only to see her smile and then resume talking. "I'll make sure he gets the message sir. Thank you, sir." She hung up the phone and turned around slowly, looking at a very puzzled Mulder. "What was that all about?" he asked. "Oh, nothing really. He just said that he hoped you were having a good time on this case. Because it will be a long time before he sends you to another romantic island with an agent of the opposite sex." Mulder's jaw dropped. "Close your mouth Mulder, I was only teasing." "Jeez, Scully, don't do that. You had me believing......." "Mulder, Skinner is an old softy when it comes to us. He just doesn't like to show it too often. You know he thinks he owes us a great debt for his life and we do owe him ours many times over. I think this little trip and case thrown in for good measure proves it." She placed her hand on his cheek. "Don't you think?" "I see what you're saying Scully, but sometimes it's hard to believe. I suppose if it weren't for Skinner, we wouldn't have come this far or still be together. For that I do owe him." She stepped closer to him as he kissed the palm of her hand. "Go call the Captain while I finish cleaning up, then call Juan and let him know we'll be in the restaurant if Junetta happens to call while we're out." Mulder made his call to Captain Cordero, filling him in on what they knew so far. He asked the Captain if he could arrange transportation for them to the island of Anegada. The Captain, being very accommodating, promised an answer by mid morning on Wednesday. Mulder thanked him and slowly hung up the phone. "Mulder? Is everything ok?" "Yeah, yeah." He turned to face Scully and continued, "I guess I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop, lightning to strike or whatever." He shrugged. Courtesy, cooperation and consideration from local law enforcement. Not something he was used to. Sure in the beginning, but by the end of the case, they were not sorry to see him go, as if he had never been there. "What are you talking.." She stopped and he could see that she understood his dilemma. Going to his side, she wrapped her arms around his waist and looked up into his eyes. "Oh Mulder, is it really so hard to believe? You deserve a break every once in a while, and you are long overdue." She reached up and lovingly stroked his cheek. He leaned into her hand and hugged her close. "Thank you, Scully." "Come on, partner, let's go eat. I'm starving." "Yeah, let's go." He placed a kiss on her cheek and ushered her out the door with his hand at the small of her back. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder and Scully's Room Tuesday evening The phone was ringing as they entered their room and Mulder grabbed it quickly. "Junetta" he mouthed to Scully as he listened to the young woman. He grabbed a pen and pad from the desk and began to write. "Yes, I understand. His name is Paul Rochon. Yes, I have it. Where can we find him when we arrive? The Settlement village. The old church. Ok. Got it. He will be expecting us? Thank you, Junetta. We appreciate your help. Yes, Thank you." Mulder returned the receiver to its cradle, then turned back to Scully. "Junetta was able to reach her uncle late this afternoon. He will be expecting us in the village. She said to meet him in the main square at the old church around three. Apparently he is just as anxious to talk with us as we are with him." "Mulder, do you think he knows more than what he has even told his niece?" "I hope so. Maybe we can wrap this up in the next couple of days and then we can spend the rest of this little vacation by ourselves." Mulder replaced the pad and pen next to the phone. When he glanced back, Scully had a frown on her face and looked as if she were deep in thought. "Scully?" He reached up and caressed her cheek. "I'm sorry, Mulder. I wish I could forget about the dream but..." Looking up with sad eyes she continued, "I'm afraid. I'm afraid for you. I can't explain it. I *just* can't seem to shake it." A tear escaped the corner of her eye. "I hate this feeling. I hate feeling weak, on the verge of crying and not understanding why. It's as if I'm losing a part of myself...and you." "Shhh....it's okay, Scully, I'll be okay. As long as you are with me, I'll be alright. You go lie down for a minute and I'll be right back. I'm gonna run a hot bath," he said, running his fingers across her cheek. She managed to give him a small nod of head as he walked away. ~x~x~x~ Scully began to move toward the bed, her vision blurred and her legs suddenly went weak. The room began to spin. She blindly reached out, grabbed the chair next to the desk and cautiously sat down. 'Why can't I shake this?' The fear and dread returned, causing her body to shiver and shake. She pulled her feet up to the edge of the chair and wrapped her arms around her legs, trying to calm herself. Her face felt hot with fever but her body shook as if cold. 'Why am I so cold?' Fragments of her dream flashed before her eyes. She could see herself running on the beach. Running to someone. Mulder! Why won't he answer me? No! Mulder walking into the water. No! No! No! Mulder disappearing. Nooooooo! She closed her eyes and covered her ears, fell to the floor, shaking uncontrollably. ~x~x~x~ Mulder returned to find her curled on the floor shaking. He knelt beside her, calling her name. Scully didn't respond when he reached out to caress her cheek. Her face was flushed and hot. "Scully? Scully?" Still she did not respond. Mulder picked her up and carried her to the tub. He removed her clothes with one hand while holding her up with his other arm wrapped securely around her waist. Still shaking, no response to his touch or voice, he lowered her in the hot bath and leaned her head against the edge. Mulder removed his clothing and slid in behind her. Pulling her against his chest, he grabbed the sponge and began washing her arms, neck and breasts, whispering softly in her ear. She began to stir as her body relaxed. He continued whispering in her ear. "Mulder...wha...what happened..." she asked, her voice weak, trying to move her head to look up at him. "Shhh...I don't know,Scully. I found you lying on the floor shaking. Do you remember what happened?" He lifted her chin to look into her eyes. "No. I'm tired Mulder, so tired." "Let's get you out of this tub and into bed." His concern escalated, realizing she didn't know what had happened after he left her. "Not tonight, Mulder, I have a headache." Sshe chuckled weakly. "Very funny, Scully, at least you haven't lost your sense of humor. Come on, can you stand?" "Not sure..... think so." He leaned her forward, holding her in place while he carefully stepped out of the tub. When he thought she could sit up on her own, he grabbed two towels, wrapped one around himself, laying the other on the edge of the tub. He lifted her up to stand, then grabbed her around the waist as her legs folded beneath her. "Whoa, hang on, Scully." He closed the lid to the toilet, picked her up and sat her down carefully. Grabbing the towel off the edge of the tub he dried her off as her body began to shiver. "Are you cold?" She nodded as he picked her up and carried her to the bed, pulling the covers back and laying her beneath them. He rapidly dried himself, slid in behind her, spooning up to her, and pulled her close. "Scully, do you remember what happened?" He rubbed her temples and cheek. Then he wrapped his arms around her waist as the warmth returned to her body. Scully grabbed his hand and pulled it close to her breast. She clung to him as if he would disappear any moment. Her tears began to fall. "Scully, what happened? Please talk to me, you're scaring me." "I'm so sorry, Mulder. Don't know what happened. Was feeling dizzy and sat down. Dream came back. Why am I dreaming this? Won't leave me alone. Don't want to lose you...scared. Tired. So tired." Her voice was becoming almost a whisper, her sentences sporadic and broken. . "It's okay Scully, I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere." He softly spoke. "Go to sleep. We'll find your answers soon. Just go to sleep." He watched over her until her breathing was calm and steady, her body warm and relaxed against his chest. Even in sleep she held tightly and possessively to his hand, still nestled between her breasts. He could feel her steady heartbeat as his own body began to relax. "Tomorrow Scully, I'll try to find your answers tomorrow." Just as he was drifting off, her hand tightened around his and her body shifted closer. She sighed in her sleep and then he followed. ~x~x~x~x~ The old man slowly walked the familiar path. A path he had traveled everyday for as long as he could remember. The small seedlings that once littered the path's edge now towered above his head. It was a comfort to him, knowing that some things do change with time. Life and death are a constant. Life springing up before his eyes only to disappear just as quickly as it came. He remembered witnessing the many births and just as many deaths. There never was a time he didn't wish for his own existence to finally come to an end. The Elder slowly walked to the edge of the hill, looking across the silent mass of water before him. He thought back on a time when he felt life and love had finally made a home within his heart. He thought sadly of how the sea he loved so much had claimed his life and love. As the sun dipped below the horizon he lowered his tired and feeble body to the ground. A sad smile crossed his lips as the moonlight danced across the face of the sea. He sat watching and waiting. Time went by slowly as he watched the sea. His body and soul ached for a sign. His heart felt heavy, watching the moonlight continue the dance as if beckoning someone to come out to play. But the sea remained silent. He closed his eyes and quietly whispered her name. "Danayah, come to me." When he opened his eyes, a soft red light beneath the surface of the water began to glow. He felt his heart skip a beat as the light grew brighter and the sea began to churn. 'Danayah'. "Danayah, please be patient. I know you are angry for losing Monge, but he was not the one. Like those before him, they were not the one. Soon Danayah, soon. You will be reunited with your soul mate. Then you can rest." The sea began to calm from his words and the clouds began to form. The rain softly fell upon the seas and the moonlight continued to dance. A tear trailed down his cheek and fell to the ground. "Don't cry Danayah, it won't be long," he whispered, rising and again walking up the familiar path as the rain gently fell all around him. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder and Scully's room 2 a.m. Wednesday morning She stood on a hill watching as the sea became angry and then calm again. The moonlight shone across the face of the sea and a feeling of sadness overwhelmed her as her tears mingled with the gentle rain. Suddenly she became cold and her body shivered. Wrapping her arms around her waist, she watched. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder slowly rolled onto his back and yawned when Scully began to move in her sleep. He fully awoke to the gentle rain and Scully's head resting on his chest with her arm tightly wrapped around his waist. Her body began to shake as she cried in her sleep. He pulled the covers up around her and hugged her close. His hand slowly rubbed up and down her arm as she continued to hold him tight. The rain had stopped. Mulder listened within the silent room to her soft cries. Tears ran down his cheeks as he lay helplessly, not knowing what to do. He felt her body relax against him. Then her cheek gently rubbed his chest, her arm relaxed and loosened around his waist. He listened as a ragged sigh escaped her lips, her hand slowly moving up his chest and to his face. She gently caressed his cheek in her sleep. He heard her whisper against his chest and had to listen closely to her soft voice. "Don't cry. Please don't cry. It won't be long, soon you can rest." She stopped crying, placing her hand across his heart, her breath softly blowing across the fine hairs on his chest. Mulder let out a shuddering sigh. She had been dreaming again and for some reason this one disturbed him more. What did she dream about this time? For a long time he listened to her breathe until worry and exhaustion finally took hold and he drifted off to sleep again . ~x~x~x~x~ The familiar sound of his heart beating strong and steady beneath Scully's ear gave her a feeling of love and warmth within his protective arms. She snuggled closer to him as he stirred in his sleep, unconsciously tightening his arm around her. She laid for a long while listening to him breathe. She carefully shifted in his embrace so she could see his face. She loved watching him sleep, carefully studying and cataloging each feature. In the corner of his eye Scully noticed a tear. As she looked closer, she could see the tracks of tears down the side of his face. Tears formed in her own eyes as she reached up and gently stroked his face, careful not to wake him. "Why Mulder?" she quietly said to herself. He stirred again, not fully coming awake. She carefully slipped out of his arms as he rolled to his side, his hand automatically searching for her even in his sleep. When she reached over and stroked his face, he settled with a contented sigh. Scully watched the sea from the patio doors for a long while, stealing glances at her sleeping partner. As she watched the sea moving in and out, she thought back on the dream that haunted her. She could remember the dream vividly now, how she cried and clung to herself as she stood in the rain on the edge of a hill watching and waiting. 'Waiting? Watching? For what?' A strange sensation washed over her, causing her to shiver and the fine hairs at the back of her neck start to tingle. 'I feel like I'm losing myself.' It was a little after nine when she decided she needed to take a walk by herself to think. Mulder would be awake soon. She needed to talk to him, but only after she could make sense of it herself. She quickly threw on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. Then she slipped on her sandals and quickly brushed her hair. As she was slipping out the glass doors onto the patio she looked back at Mulder, still sound asleep. She thought sadly of how much he was hurting, briefly closed her eyes, and then quietly closed the door. ~x~x~x~x~ His first thought was that something wasn't quite right. He laid still for a moment and opened one eye. He was lying on his side with his arms wrapped around Scully's pillow. His head popped up, looking at the clock. 10:30. He rolled onto his back, yawned and washed his hands over his face. He sat up slowly blinking blurry eyes as he glanced around the room. "Scully?" When she didn't answer he rubbed his eyes and scanned the room once again. 'Where is she? Why didn't she wake me?' Worry twisted his gut as he listened. There was no sound from the bathroom. The room was eerily silent except for his heart pounding in his ears. He quickly got out of bed and grabbed a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. When he turned he noticed the patio doors were ajar. He quickly dressed and headed for the door. He let out a long breath of relief upon seeing her reclined on the patio chaise. He dropped his head, sighed with relief and slid the glass doors open just as she looked up. "Morning sleepy head," she said. "Morning. How long have you been up?" He slid in next to her on the chaise and gathered her up in his arms. "For a while." she whispered as she slid her arms around his waist and laid her head against his chest. "Scully, what happened last night? You had another dream, didn't you? You were crying in your sleep." She tightened her arms around him, and she told him of her dream. He listened as she quietly spoke of an angry sea and the soft gentle rain. He looked into her eyes as she spoke of her sadness and the tears she shed. "Mulder, I don't understand and I don't expect you to either, but I have this feeling that something will happen if we leave this place." She looked into his eyes, pleading for his understanding. She gently placed a finger on his lips before he could respond. "I know we have to go. I know you need answers as much as I do. I can't help the way I feel. But, I do know this. If we go, I won't let you out of my sight for one minute." "I wouldn't have it any other way, Scully." "Mulder..." she paused when the phone rang. Mulder kissed her on the forehead. "Hold that thought. I better get that. It might be the Captain. He did say he would call when he had made arrangements for us." Mulder quickly rose and stepped inside to answer the phone. "Mulder. Yes...thank you. Yes, sir. I will let you know. Thank you, sir. " He hung up the phone and stepped back out the door. "Mulder was that him?" she inquired softly. "Yeah, that was Captain Cordero. We have a 1:00 flight to Anegada." "What time is it now?" "Almost 11:00. We still have some time." She closed her eyes, laid her head back against the chaise. One arm draped around her waist as the other stretched across her eyes. Mulder sat down next to her and took her hand. "Hey, everything will be alright. Nothing's going to happen to me." "Okay," she replied as she lowered her arm from her eyes. He hoped that he was right. ~x~x~x~x~x~ End Part 5 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 6 ~x~x~x~x~ Island of Anegada Wednesday afternoon Upon arriving at the Inn, Mulder and Scully checked in and made their way to their room. When Mulder opened the door, he made a mental note to personally thank Tony. The room was small but pleasing to the eye. A kitchenette was to the left and next to the bathroom. A big, fluffy, queen-sized four-poster bed dominated one wall to the right of the door. Two nightstands with small antique lamps were on either side. An antique double dresser stood along the wall to the right of the door and pale blue carpet covered the floor. Mulder set their suitcases at the foot of the bed and walked over to the sliding glass doors, which opened up to a balcony. The water from the sea lazily lapping at the beach could be seen in the distance. He turned to the left to enter the small bathroom. A two sink vanity, toilet and a claw foot bathtub were the only fixtures. He stepped out of the bathroom, watching Scully run her hand across the colorful, handmade quilt that laid across the white down comforter. She turned to see Mulder leaning against the door jam of the bathroom, with his arms crossed, smiling at her. "What are you smiling at?" she asked slowly walking around the bed. "Well, a couple of things come to mind," he said wagging his eyebrows. She shook her head and wrapped her arms around him. "Mulder, you have a one track mind. But this is beautiful, isn't it? We'll have to thank Tony when we see him again. By the way, when are we supposed to meet Junetta's uncle?" "She said he would meet us around three at the old church." Looking at his watch, he figured they had about 45 minutes. "Why don't we wander around the village while we wait for him?" she asked. "Actually I had something else in mind while we wait." Scully shook her head again. "Mulder, you're incorrigible. Let's go." She grabbed his hand and he growled as she pulled him to the door. "Ah, Scully," was all he could say as he closed the door behind them. ~x~x~x~x~ As Mulder and Scully walked through the main lobby, a young woman smiled as they approached the front desk. "Hi, my name is Janella. May I help you?" "Yeah, as a matter of fact you can," Mulder said. "We're supposed to meet someone at the old church in the village square. Could you give us directions?" Janella pulled several pamphlets from under the desk and laid them out before them. He picked up one that listed the many shops and restaurants on her little island. "Here is a small map of our village. This motel is on the outskirts, but the village square is within walking distance." She handed him the brochure along with several others covering the many attractions on Anegada. He thanked her with a smile then turned to Scully and made their way out the front door. On the porch were two old rocking chairs. Mulder pulled Scully over to sit in one as he dragged the other close. Once seated, he handed her one of the brochures while he studied the others. She pointed out several shops she wanted to visit. She thought maybe, just maybe, she would be able to relax and enjoy the day, if just a little while. "Okay, Scully, got it all mapped out? Let's go see the sights." He pulled her up, wrapping an arm around her waist, then led her down the front steps and onto the walkway leading away from the motel. They walked at a leisurely pace through the small village toward the square, passing shops boasting local artistry. The smell of the bakery caught Mulder's attention. Venturing into the small shop, they were greeted with an array of pastries, cakes and breads. Mulder chose a chocolate cream-filled pastry and Scully chose a chocolate cream-filled cupcake. While Mulder paid for the items, Scully stepped outside and walked a little way down the street. She came across a young woman with a table filled with an assortment of jewelry. "My name is Zele. What is your name?" she inquired with an out-stretched hand. "My name is Dana. Nice to meet you," she replied with the shake of the young woman's hand. "Do you like what you see?" Zele asked with a tilt of her head. "Yes. They're all beautiful. Do you make the jewelry yourself?" she asked as she browsed through the many pieces. "Thank you and yes I do." Scully picked up a small ring of silver that caught her eye. The ring was of two entwined strands of silver separating into the shape of a heart. Within the heart was a tiny white pearl encased by a knot. Scully turned the ring over in her hand, fascinated with the intricate workmanship. She inspected the ring closely, trying to find a break in the strands of silver. The tiny pearl seemed to be floating within the knot. She looked at the young woman in awe. She started to ask about the ring when Mulder slipped up behind her, wrapped his arms around her waist, and laid his chin on her shoulder. "Hey, Scully." "Hey, yourself. Isn't it pretty?" she asked, holding it up for him to see. "It's perfect, just like you," he whispered in her ear. "You chose well. Would you like me to tell you about the ring?" The woman asked, smiling at them. "Yes, please," Mulder replied, resting his chin atop Scully's head. "The two strands of silver represent two lives entwined in a continuous journey to one heart. In the center of that heart is a never ending love." Mulder squeezed Scully tighter. "Within that love is the purest of one soul. Two lives entwined on a journey of the heart to become one soul." "That was beautiful," Scully said wistfully. "You buy for your young lover?" Zele asked, looking at Mulder with a bit of mirth in her eyes. Scully blushed, shook her head no and placed the ring back on the table. The woman smiled and nodded. Mulder released his hold on Scully's waist and grabbed her hand as they started back down the street. She glanced over her shoulder. She saw Zele smile and pick up the ring and place it under the table. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder pulled Scully into a little store that had everything you could ever want. As Scully ventured off to the colorful rack of blouses and dresses, Mulder slipped out of the store and headed back to the jewelry stand. Zele smiled and held a small package up to him as he approached. Mulder gave her a puzzled look and reached for his wallet but she shook her head and handed him the package. "Why?" he asked with a frown on his face. "In my heart, I believe it belongs with you and your lover. I can not ask for payment for something that no longer belongs to me. It belongs to both of you. As long as she wears the ring, she and the love of her heart will be safe." Zele smiled as Mulder took the package. He looked down at it in a quandary and then back up to her. She shook her head and waved her hand. "Don't question fate," she simply said. "Thank you, thank you very much." He slowly walked away, then looked back and stopped dead in his tracks. He turned completely around, looking up and down the street. The entire jewelry stall was gone. Mulder walked back to the front of the store where the young woman had been sitting. He stepped inside and inquired about her. The older man behind the desk simply shrugged his shoulders and shook his head. Mulder left the store more bewildered than when he went in. Mulder didn't notice Scully when she approached him. He was startled when she touched his arm. "Mulder, I was looking for you. What are you doing out here?" She touched his cheek. "Your face is pale. Are you okay?" "I'm not sure Scully," he said quietly, turning the package over and over in his hands. "Mulder, what have you got there?" he could hear the concern in her voice as she asked. "Um....I came back to get this for you because you liked it so much. But when I turned around she was gone. Gone, Scully. I couldn't find her. I turned around for just a second and she was gone." He frowned, reaching up and rubbing his forhead. He let Scully lead him to a bench a few feet from where they stood and felt her rub his arm. He looked at the small package he held and shook his head. He glanced around, feeling as though he just walked into an episode of the 'Twilight Zone'. His head began to ache and rubbed his forehead again. He started when Scully spoke. "Mulder, start from the beginning and tell me again," He turned his face toward her when she place her hand on his cheek. He drew in a shaky breath then slowly exhaled. "After I left you in the store, I came back to buy the ring. She handed me the package, we talked and I left. When I turned around again, she was gone. I looked around and even went into the store where she was set up. They knew nothing. Scully, it was as if she was never there." He winced when she raised her eyebrow. "Mulder, we both talked to her. Are you sure she didn't just get up and go into one of the other stores?" "Scully, how could she pack up and disappear so quickly? It wasn't but a minute at the most before I turned back around." Exasperation was becoming evident the longer he sat. He wanted to get up and pace, run or just throw his hands in the air and scream. He inhaled deeply and then slowly released his frustation with a cleansing breath. "But Mulder, we both talked to her. She was there." He smiled to himself as she frowned and heard her relentless words. "I know Scully, believe me, I know." He shook his head and then covered her hand that was still rubbing his arm, with his own. "Anyway, she gave me this package and said it belonged to us. She wouldn't accept payment for it. She said she could not take the money because the ring never belonged to her." He took the ring from the box and placed it on Scully's finger. "She said that as long as you wear this ring, you will be safe." Mulder lifted her hand up to his lips and kissed it softly. "Please promise me you will never take it off." She looked into his eyes and then at the ring and promised with a slight nod of her head. With tears in her eyes, she kissed him and wrapped her arms around his neck. "I love you Scully. More than anything in this world. I want to always keep you safe." "Mulder," was all she could say through the tears. "Come on. Let's go find that church." ~x~x~x~x~ Paul Rochon was a proud man who loved his family and took care of them the best he knew how. At times, being a fisherman had its rewards. He could feed his family and make enough money from the sell of his catch to keep them clothed. The years before had been good and with each trip out to sea, promising. As he sat looking out over the square, he thought about the friends he had lost and each time he went out, a fearful wait for his family. He often wondered if he would be the next, knowing it was a matter of time. Time, he knew, was running out. His heart had grown heavy over the past few weeks with a secret he knew would someday come back to haunt him. A secret that he knew would have to be told in order to save his peace of mind. Paul stood and walked down the steps when Mulder and Scully approached. He recognized them from the description his niece had given him when she had called. "Mr. Rochon, I am Fox Mulder and this is Dana Scully. I believe your niece spoke with you about our visit." Mulder shook Paul's hand as he introduced them both. Paul nodded his head. "Yes, I recognize you from the description she gave. She had some good things to say about the two of you. She said I could trust you. And if she says I can, then I believe her." "Mr. Rochon is there some place we can go and talk? Your niece said that you may be able to answer some questions about the Elder." "Yes, please follow me." They slowly walked to a small restaurant a little way from the church. While they walked, Paul talked of his family and friends. They entered the small establishment and found a table in the back corner of the room since there were very few people at this time of the day. As they settled in, they were greeted by a young man who quickly took their order and scurried away. Paul saw that Mulder was waiting for him to get settled before he spoke. He shifted and settled more firmly in his chair and placed his folded hands on the table. "Mr. Rochon, with what limited information we have gathered, the Elder seems to be the key. We haven't been able to obtain any information on him so far. According to your niece, she believes you may be able to help us." "Mr. Mulder, I'm going to tell you a true story. It will be up to the both of you whether you believe or not." He paused for a moment to gather his thoughts before beginning again. Paul could tell Mulder was intrigued, but it was having the opposite effect on Scully. He noticed her shaky hand when she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Inwardly he smiled at the look of shock on Scully's face when Mulder grabbed her hand and held it while Paul continued his story. "Back in the late 1800's, a young woman lived on a hill overlooking the sea. She had long red hair, pale skin, eyes as blue as the sky and the voice of an angel. She had a love for the sea that went beyond reason. She was a young woman of 29 when she fell in love. No man had ever captured her heart the way that William did. William was a tall, dark-haired man with the heart of a lion and sad green eyes. His love for her was greater than his love of the sea. They had found each other, found their true soul mates. "William would watch her from the hill as she danced and sang along the beach in the moonlight. He loved this woman with all his heart and soul, but knew he would never be able to stay for good. He had lost someone close to him and needed to look one more time before he could be truly happy. So he set out one last time with a promise to her that he would return on the eve of her 30th birthday. "Months went by as she looked out to sea searching for her beloved William. "On her 30th birthday, she received word that his ship was lost at sea on the return trip to this island. It is said that she walked into the sea that night and disappeared." "What was her name?" Scully asked, almost a whisper. "Why, her name was Danayah," he said as he turned to see a very pale Scully. "Miss Scully, are you alright?" Scully spoke softly, hoping her voice would not shake as badly as her body did, but he could hear her voice shaking anyway. "Yes, thank you". "Mr. Rochon, that was a very interesting story, but what does it have to do with the Elder?" Mulder asked. "Every evening, just before the sun sets, the Elder goes to the hill overlooking the beach that Danayah used to walk. He sits there, talking to her as if she still lives. I have followed him many evenings and listened to him. I have seen a red glow beneath the surface of the water come and go as he speaks. Last night, I followed him and watched and listened. He sat for a long time before he finally spoke. He called her name and the red light appeared. The sea began to churn beneath it. He told her that Monge was not the one, like the others before him. That it would be over soon and she would be reunited with her long lost love forever. The sea calmed and the rain came. He believes it is Danayah that is taking the young men, searching for William. And the rain is her tears with each discovery that they are not him." Paul looked at the both of them, hoping they would understand and believe. He lowered his head, folding his hands before him and waited. ~x~x~x~x~ Scully began to shake as the dream came to her in the form of words. Words that made it real. Could she believe that her dreams were taking the form of reality? Her scientific mind was telling her no. Dreams were just a product of too many stories. Stories spun and woven into the fabric of mysticism. Over time the mystical fabric is stretched and embellished to fuel the imaginations of those that had been suscecptible to the supernatural; spiritual. Her analytical mind was trying to sort through what she has seen, felt, and heard. She was quickly becoming fearful as her heart was waging a war with her mind. Every skeptical bone in her body was shaken to the core. She felt lightheaded and nauseous. She couldn't breathe. "Mulder," Her voice was but a whisper. She closed her eyes, trying to calm herself, willing herself to breathe. The last thing she remembered were two strong arms wrapped around her. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder grabbed Scully around the shoulders and pulled her close. Seeing the frightened and helpless look on Paul's face, he shook his head and gently picked her up. Mulder informed him of where they were staying and asked to meet him there tomorrow around one. Mulder carried Scully from the restaurant after Paul agreed to the arrangement. By the time he reached the Inn, Scully had gone completely limp in his arms. He rushed up the stairs and realized that his key were in his jeans pocket. His dilemma was short- lived when a maid appeared with a key and quickly opened the door. With a nod and a sigh of gratitude he entered the room and gently laid Scully on the bed. Again the young woman was by his side with a cold wash cloth, which she handed to Mulder. "Sir, is there something else I can do?" "Thank you, but I think we'll be alright now. I really am grateful for your help. Thank you again." The young woman left, closing the door softly behind her.Mulder quickly and gently removed Scully's clothing and then his own. He crawled into bed beside her and slid his arm beneath her neck, pulling her close to him. He gently bathed her face with the cold washcloth. "Scully, come on, baby, wake up. You're scaring me. Scully, please," he said quietly while he rocked her gently in his arms. Scully slowly came around to the soft murmurs of Mulder's voice. He laid the washcloth on the nightstand and gently pulled her closer to him when she began to stir. His silent tears of relief slowly made their way down his cheek. "Mulder....." she said softly, moving closer to him. "Shhhh....it's alright now. I'm here. Rest now. We'll talk later." He let go a shuddering breath of relief. "Mulder, don't cry. Everything will be alright." Mulder kissed the top of her head and rocked her gently to sleep as the tears continued to fall. When his body finally began to relax and gave over to exhaustion, he drifted off to sleep to the beating of her heart against his chest. ~x~x~x~x~ Paul Rochon left the restaurant, his eyes scanning the street, but not seeing. His mind wondered back to the incident in the restaurant, trying to put the pieces together. There was a connection, but what was it? He had a sinking feeling that Scully was somehow linked to the Elder. He needed more information. He would have to think about it before he met with them again. One tomorrow. That's what he said. One tomorrow. Paul made his way out of town and down a path, through the woods, he had taken many times to the sea. When he reached the clearing at the edge of the trees, he slipped into the shadows. Paul knew the Elder was unaware of his presence while he watched and listened to his conversation from a distance. His heart beat faster with each word that was spoken. Tomorrow. He needed the answers before it was too late. When the old man was out of site, Paul quickly headed home. ~x~x~x~x~x~ Part 7 The Elder watched from a safe distance as Paul and the strangers entered the restaurant. He couldn't see their faces but they seemed familiar to him. The way they moved. An aura of sensual closeness that radiated between the pair. He felt as though he should know them. Had known them from another time and place. He needed to know more about these two strangers. He watched and waited. Time passed slowly as the inhabitants of his village went about their daily routine. Time, once a precious commodity to him, was only a curse to him now. Days stretched and reached into an unknown future. A future he once hoped and prayed for. Every nerve ending came alive as the young man quickly carried the red-haired woman from the restaurant. He couldn't see her face but, he gasped as he got a closer look at the tall dark-haired man. It was as if he were looking through the mirror of time. He followed as the young man hurriedly carried the redhead into the motel. Who were these two strangers and why were they here? He needed answers to questions he was not quite sure he wanted to ask. As the sun slowly set, the Elder walked down the familiar path. When he reached the top of the hill, he was greeted by the beauty that spanned before him. How he missed the sea. The sun dipped slowly below the horizon, spreading a spectacular array of color and light across the face of the water. A tear escaped his eye as a sadness settled within his aching heart. The sun disappeared beneath a blanket of darkness. He watched as the moonlight scanned the water, coming to rest before him. Ripples of water reached skyward to capture the moonlight in play. He watched the moonlight once again, as on many nights before, dance across the face of his beloved sea. A light breeze caressed his face, sending shivers down his spine. Something was not right tonight. Deep within the liquid mass the red light grew brighter and brighter. His body shivered again. What could be wrong? As the glowing red light reached the surface, angry eyes stared back at him. The sea beneath the angry eyes churned and splashed against the sand below him. "Danayah, please give me one more day. Please be patient for one more day. A young man has entered our world. He may be the answer. He is so much like your beloved William. Just give me one more day." He closed his eyes and dreamed of a vivacious young woman who had captured his heart so many years ago. His heart ached as the memory became more vivid. Eyes that were bluer than the sky and a smile that could make any young man's heart skip a beat. "Danayah, I love you. Soon, very soon. Please." He softly spoke as he opened his eyes. A soft rain began to fall as the blue eyes closed and slowly disappeared from view. A smile crossed his lips and his heart became lighter. He felt the rain across his face as it continued to fall. The moonlight hid behind a dark cloud of sadness. He turned with a lighter heart and a tear in his eye. His feeble body seemed not so worn and battered. He continued down the familiar path back home. The gentle rain continued to fall until the old man was out of sight. Danayah slipped deeper and deeper into the dark abyss she called home. The moonlight slid from behind the cloud and danced once more. ~x~x~x~x~ Motel 2 a.m. Sleep was not an option for Fox Mulder as he watched over Dana Scully. The events of late afternoon had continued to weigh heavily on his mind. Over the last couple of days he'd gathered bits and pieces of information. Jumbled pieces within his already overactive mind. He continued to shift and move each piece as if fitting them, one by one, into an elaborate work of art. Scully began to stir within her sleep, not quite coming fully awake. Her sleep had been fitful at times, crying softly and clinging to him. Mulder gently rubbed her arm and listened to her ragged breath and the feel of her heart beating faster. His worry turned to fear. Her will may be strong but her small body wouldn't be able to take much more abuse. She shifted once more against him and became very still when her head came to rest above his heart. Her breathing slowed and her body began to relax. She continued to cling to him as his embrace tightened around her. If he only knew what to do. ~x~x~x~x~x~ End Chapter 4 TITLE: THE SILENT SEA (5/6) AUTHOR: XPHILERNJ E-MAIL: xphilernj@aol.com RATED: NC-17 CATEGORY: MSR CLASSIFICATION: X, T KEYWORDS: Angst, Humor DISCLAIMER: : Nope, don't own 'em. CC does. I just borrow 'em. SPOILERS: Post-Milagro/S.R. 819 DISTRIBUTION: Sure, fine, whatever. Just let me know where. I want visitation rights. SUMMARY: The silent sea can be unforgiving at times, but true love is undaunting and forgiving. Author Notes: This is my very first attempt at writing an X-file adventure. The places are real but may not be true to form. I did take a few liberties with my imagination and the myth contained in this story is also the product of my warped mind. I do apologize if I have offended anyone. ~x~x~x~x Chapter 5 Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Thursday Morning Scully was dreaming of warm hands and of a body wrapped around hers like a down comforter on a cold night. She slowly awoke as Mulder shifted closer to her. A pleasant surprise pressed against her lower back. She turned in his embrace and ran her hand down along his firm body as he began to move once more. She lightly caressed him, placing butterfly kisses across his face and neck. He growled as her hand gently caressed his cock. She rained a path of wet kisses across his chest, eliciting a shiver from his sleep-warmed body. He moaned as she nibbled and tugged at his bottom lip. She gasped when he captured her lips with his, pulling her into an embrace and rolling her over, pinning her securely beneath him. It wasn't long before the hunger and desire took over. ~x~x~x~x~ "Damn Scully. That was one helluva wake up call," he said, with a smile. "Hmmm...," he heard her purr against his neck. "Morning, Sunshine." "Mulder?" He could tell by the tone of her voice that she had heard the worry and sadness creep into his greeting. "Sorry, Scully. I was thinking about last night. You had another dream, didn't you?" he inquired softly. "Scully, what happened at the diner yesterday? You passed out on me, again, and I had to carry you back here." His voice was but a whisper when he spoke again. "Damn it, Scully. I thought I was gonna lose you this time." Not wanting her to see his tears, he turned his head and closed his eyes. He felt the touch of her hand against his cheek as a single tear escaped. He heard her sigh and felt her head press into his chest as she hugged him close. "Mulder, I don't know what to tell you. I wish I had the answers for you. I've tried making sense of the dreams, but I just can't seem to put the pieces together. Mulder, there is one thing that I do know. I'm scared. Scared for you." Mulder sighed heavily, nuzzled and kissed the crown of her head. The worry and frustration of not being able to help her was more and more overwhelming with each passing day. A threat which was bound to consume him, as well as Scully. He needed to think. He needed to figure out how the Elder, Paul and the mystery surrounding the deaths of the village men were connected. And why was Scully so frightened for him? Why him? He needed answers and he damned well was gonna get them. One way or the other. "Mulder?" He was worrying his bottom lip with his teeth and felt her thumb run across his bottom lip. "What are you thinking?" "Just trying to figure out what our next move is gonna be. You need answers and I want those answers as much as you do," he replied calmly, his tone soft and gentle as he pushed a strand of hair behind her ear. "Mulder, I know you do, but...there is something strange going on here, and I'm not sure I really want to know. I'll do anything it takes to keep you safe." He saw the tears before she closed her eyes. "Hey, hey. We've been through worse, right?" He caressed her cheek with his finger, speaking softly. "Come on, let's take a shower and then get something to eat at the diner. I told Paul to meet us downstairs around 1:00." As she sat on the edge of the bed, he saw her glance down at the ring on her finger and heard her whisper, "We'll be okay. We'll be fine as long as we're together." He knelt down in front of her with his hands on her knees. "Always together, Scully." He reached up and placed a hand on her cheek. "Come on." He stood, pulled her up with him and headed for the shower. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 1 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ Time seemed to stand still. The Elder's heart beat fiercely, as if trying to escape. The rapid onslaught of sensations washed over him, making him shiver. On unsteady legs, he slowly lowered himself to the bench, running a shaky hand across his face as the confusing and jumbled thoughts ran rampant through his mind. The bright afternoon sun shone brightly across his face as he watched a young couple exit the diner. The red headed woman walked hand in hand with a tall dark haired man. The woman smiled lovingly at her young man when he raised her hand to his lips and kissed the soft pale skin. The couple paused for a moment, and looked into each others eyes before continuing on their journey. Startled by a small hand resting on his shoulder, he turned to see a young girl frowning at him. "Elder? Are you alright?" she asked with concern which brought a smile to his face. "Yes child. I'm all right. Just a little tired. Now, Enya, what can I do for you?" he asked softly, focusing all his attention on the young girl. "The men ask to see you at the church." "Tell them I will be there in a moment." He watched as she skipped off toward the church, turning once to giggle and wave. Such sweet innocence and concern from such a young child. He smiled, shaking his head, remembering an innocence from another time. His eyes wandered back to the young couple. Again, his heart began to beat rapidly as the woman lifted her face toward the sky. The Elder's eyes grew dark with passion as he remembered another from his past. He watched the young female with wonder and thought, 'How can this be? It is not her.' He ran a shaky hand through thin white hair. The young woman's hair was as red as fire, framing her fair complexion. She turned her head toward him. He could see her blue eyes had the sparkle of a sunlit sky. Her smile could make the hardest hearts of men bow at her feet. Her petite form was graceful and sure. The young dark haired man tilted his head and smiled. The old man could see eyes that were as green as emeralds. He was tall, thin in stature, wide shoulders, small waist and long lean legs. The man placed his arm around her waist and gently guided her down the sidewalk. With each step the young man took, the Elder could see the pride and adoration he held for his young love. The Elder mentally shook himself as the couple disappeared around the corner. No longer within his sight, he shivered and thought, 'They are here for a purpose. Their resemblance is too overwhelming to think otherwise. But for what purpose? Why are they here? He shook his head, lifting his weary body from the bench and slowly walked toward the church. 'Tonight. I will go to her tonight. I have to. I need to, before it's too late.' ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 2 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ The breeze from the fan above Paul's head was quiet contrast to the blast of warm air that now assaulted him as he arose from his chair. Paul watched as Mulder and Scully, hand in hand, entered the front door of the motel. He noticed Mulder's smile quickly disappeared when Scully's face became pale. Paul watched the silent interaction between the two. Scully had been the first to see him. Mulder glanced over to see who or what had caught her attention. Mulder gently tugged on her hand and she slightly nodded her head. They both closed the gap and Mulder reached out to shake Paul's hand. Paul then turned to Scully. He reached out to take her hand. "Miss Scully, I hope you're feeling much better. I was worried about you yesterday." He gently caressed her hand for a moment, then released it when a silent tremor ran through her now tense stature. "Thank you for your concern. I'm fine." Paul couldn't help but hear her voice shake. She took a deep breath as if to calm herself but she looked as scared as a little kitten. It seemed to him that she was holding tight on to Mulder, as if from him, she could draw what strength she needed to continue. "Paul, let's have a seat," Mulder said. Paul nodded his head and sat in a single chair in the corner of the room. Mulder and Scully sat side by side on the small sofa facing Paul. As if trying to disappear, Scully sank back into the sofa as Mulder leaned forward with his elbows resting on his knees and hands clasped together before him. Paul saw the worry on Mulder's face and heard him softly say, "Dreams are answers to questions we haven't yet figured out how to ask." Mulder glanced back at Scully and took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly. Paul smiled to himself and nodded. "Paul, you seem to know more than you told us yesterday. Exactly what does the Elder have to do with the deaths?" Mulder inquired. Paul shifted uneasily in his seat and leaned forward, mirroring Mulder. He was not sure how much he should tell. Granted, he only had suspicions and speculations, but would they believe him? He stared at his hands for a moment, then glanced up at Mulder and made his decision. "I don't know if you will believe what I am about to say, but..." Paul hesitated, choosing his words carefully and then continued. "I believe the Elder has a strong connection to whatever is happening here, although I have only suspicions. I also believe you and Miss Scully are connected somehow." "What makes you think we are connected ?" Paul shifted uncomfortably again, trying to put his suspicions to words. "Mr. Mulder, as I said, I'm not sure. I have suspicions and speculations to go on. I have seen the Elder watching you and Miss Scully several times. I have followed him and listened to him. What I...my mind has come up with, may sound a bit...unbelievable." Scully shifted and sat up next to Mulder. She placed her hand on his thigh, trying not to break the connection she seemed to need. "Unbelievable? I doubt it," she said. Her voice was stronger and more confident. Mulder chuckled softly. He turned to Paul with a smirk. "I doubt there would be anything you could say that we wouldn't believe," he said as he shrugged his shoulders. Paul smiled and nodded. "All right. I'm not sure what connection you have to the Elder. I do know that the Elder is very curious about the two of you. He has been acting very strange since you first arrived. Even when he talks to Danayah, he...sounds as though he is trying to calm her. The sea seems to be angrier than before. I feel something is going to happen soon. I can't explain it. It's just a feeling." "What do you mean, he is trying to calm her?" Scully asked cautiously. "When he talks to her, he apologizes to her and tells her that it will be over soon. He told her that the strangers were somehow involved and that he needed to find out how. That is why, Mr. Mulder, I needed to talk with you and Miss Scully. I did not want to see you or anyone else hurt again. It has gone on too long. I just didn't know what else to do. I did not want to see you taken like the rest." Paul could see Scully's hand squeeze Mulder's leg. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. Mulder quickly placed his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close. She shook her head slightly. "It's okay, Mulder. I'm alright," she said as she stared at Paul. Paul watched as Mulder seemed to relax but kept his arm protectively around her. "Paul, I've been having these strange dreams since arriving on the islands and they've been getting worse." "Will you tell me about the dreams? They may tell us more than you may know." She took a deep breath and nodded. "When I first started having the dreams, I'd be standing on a hill overlooking the sea. I could see a red light beneath the surface and the waters would start churning. There was a man on the beach walking slowly to the edge. I would then find myself running down the beach calling out to him but he didn't seem to hear me. He would walk into the water, toward the red light and disappear. It would start raining and I'd collapse after that, screaming. Later the dream changed." She paused for a moment and then continued. "I was on the hill again, overlooking the sea. I remember feeling sad as I watched the red light slowly disappear. I remember saying, 'don't worry, it will be over soon. Please don't cry.' Then the light disappeared and it began to rain." Paul listened closely as she spoke. When she finished, he could see the tension slowly draining from her face. "Who did you see on the beach? You said you called out to him. Do you know who he was?" Scully looked at Mulder's questioning eyes and then to Paul. "Mulder. I saw Mulder's face when he...disappeared." Tears welled up in her eyes as she lowered her head. "Why didn't you tell me? Jesus, Scully. No wonder it's been driving you crazy. I wish you would have told me. I'm so sorry." Mulder said. He pulled her into his embrace and kissed her forehead as tears trailed down her cheeks. "I didn't know how to tell you. I really didn't want to believe it. Mulder, I was afraid if I said it out loud that it would be true. I didn't want it to be true." She buried her head into his chest and circled her arms around his waist. Mulder chuckled softly and said, "My skeptical Scully. I should've known. I should've realized before now." She pulled away and looked up at him. "I'm sorry, I should have told you." Paul watched Scully closely, believing she was connected to the mystery surrounding the Elder. There was something about her that he just couldn't put his finger on. Suddenly his eyes went wide and his mouth flew open. "By all the gods...that's it!" he said excitedly as he rose to stand before them. Mulder and Scully were startled at Paul's outburst. "What are you talking about? What is it?" Waving his hands, he rushed to tell them his suspicions. "The dream and...her. She is the connection. She..." Paul paused for a moment to catch his breath. "What are you talking about? How is she the connection?" Mulder inquired. "Wait. Remember the story, the description I gave you of Danayah? She was petite with red hair, blue eyes and pale skin. She could be..." He looked at Scully warily. "What is your first name?" Scully started to answer and then looked at Mulder. She pulled out of his embrace and quickly stood up, moving away from the two men. "Wait a minute. You're saying that I'm connected to this...this...entity, or whatever you want to call her...just because I look like her? I don't believe this." Mulder quickly got up, standing in front of her. "Scully, just calm down and let's think this through. You have to admit that what he's saying is starting to make sense. I can't believe I didn't make the connection before now," he calmly said. Taking her face in his hands, he gazed into her eyes and then softly spoke, "Scully, I know. But don't do this. We will figure it out. We always do, don't we?" She closed her eyes briefly and then nodded her head. He stroked her cheeks and then brushed his lips across hers, ever so lightly. The unspoken. A trademark and declaration of the bond that these two souls shared. Paul watched with admiration. If anyone would survive, they would. Hopefully what he had to say next would not shake that sturdy foundation. "Um...Mr. Mulder, there is one other thing," Paul said hesitantly. Mulder continued to look into Scully eyes. "Hmmm...what is it Paul?" "Not only do I believe she is the connection, but I also believe you are too. You also fit William's description as well." Scully's eyes widened with the realization of his words. Her face paled. "Mulder?" Her body went limp beneath Mulder's hands. Paul gasped. "Scully?!" Mulder caught her before she fell to the floor. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 3 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 4 ~x~x~x~x~ 'If there truly is a God in heaven, please tell me why? Why her? Why does it have to be her every time?' Mulder quickly, but carefully gathered Scully up in his arms and carried her toward the stairs. 'Please God, let her be okay.' He didn't know how much more she could take. As for him, he didn't know how much more he could take watching her fiery spirit slowly being taken away, replacing it with fear and uncertainty. Scully was the strong one. Always in control of her emotions. Whether in the field or in the confines of her apartment, she was always in control. Mulder could count on his hands the times that fragile control was compromised. He depended on her more than he felt he should, but she had become the rock that he clung to. Even now he clung to her, praying to a God he was not sure existed. Praying his rock would not break and crumble beneath him. As he rushed up the stairs, cradling a semi-conscious Scully, he called out to Paul to follow. Without hesitation, Paul was right behind him, bounding up the stairs. "Get the key out of my back pocket," Mulder said as they stood at the door. Paul quickly located the key with shaky hands. He unlocked and opened the door wide, making room for Mulder to enter. Mulder gently placed Scully on the bed. Paul closed the door and moved to the chair in the corner of the room and sat. Mulder slid in behind her and cradled her against his chest, murmuring softly in her ear. For the next two hours, Mulder forgot all about Paul as he cradled Scully against his chest. His head rested atop of hers as he rocked her slowly, constantly whispering against her hair. Mulder tucked a strand of loose hair behind her ear, caressing her cheek. At this moment in time to Mulder, there was no one else but Scully. A single tear trailed down the side of his face. He didn't care as the tear fell from his chin onto Scully's cheek. Scully raised her hand and laid it above Mulder's heart. "Mul..der," she said sleepily as she began to move. "Shhhh...it's okay." He slowly rubbed the back of the hand that rested above his heart. Scully settled once more against him. Mulder looked up, and was startled to see that Paul was still there. He had completely forgotten the man was still in the room. His worry and concern for Scully overshadowed anything or anyone. He gave Paul an apologetic smile as he shifted from the discomfort of lying in one position for so long. "I'm sorry Paul. Have you been here the whole time?" Paul sat up straighter in his chair and leaned forward, placing his elbows on his knees, with his hands clasped before him. He looked up at Mulder with a sad smile. "I couldn't leave just yet, not knowing if she would be all right. She looks exhausted," he said. "She is. She gets weaker with each one of these episodes. It's as if she's slipping away," Mulder said, looking down at his sleeping partner. "Scully is the strongest person I know. To see her like this...she can't take much more." When Mulder looked back up, Paul had lowered his head, looking at his hands. He frowned and shook his head. "What is it Paul? I can see by the expression on your face you know something. If it will help Scully, please tell me. I don't know what to do for her. I can't lose her. Not now. Not like this." Mulder's eyes closed as Scully began to whimper and stir. He gently stroked her hand and face, her tears soaking his shirt where her head rested against his heart. He whispered softly in her ear. The tension across her face faded and she relaxed once more against him. Mulder looked up when Paul moved to the window. "Mr. Mulder, I have lived on this island all my life. I have heard and seen things that defy belief. We have our own beliefs and customs that many will not understand. I don't expect you to believe what I'm about to tell you. I can only hope that you will have an open mind." Paul glanced back at Mulder. "I don't think there is anything that I wouldn't believe right now," Mulder said with a shrug of his shoulders. Paul sadly smiled and nodded. "Good. I will tell you what I know to be true and what I believe to be true. Then maybe, just maybe we can help Miss Scully." Before he could say any more, Scully moved her hand across Mulder's chest and stretched her legs. She slowly opened her eyes and focused on Paul standing at the window, then she looked up at Mulder. "Mulder? What's going on?" she asked with a yawn, then sleepily rubbed her eyes. "Glad to see you're finally awake. I was getting a little worried. How do you feel?" he asked running his finger down her cheek. "I feel better than I did, just a little drained. What's Paul doing here and why are you looking at me like that?" Mulder sat up against the headboard, pulling her up with him. "Mulder?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "I was worried, that's all. Paul stayed to make sure you were going to be all right." He could" see the exhaustion still lingering in her eyes. "Thank youfor your concern, Paul. I'm fine. Now, will you both tell me what's going on? The look on both of your faces tells me something is wrong. What is it?" she asked. She sat up straight and laid her hand on Mulder's leg as he settled more comfortably on the bed. Paul glanced at Scully, then turned back, looking out across the sea. "Miss Scully, as I have told Mr. Mulder, I will tell you what I know to be true and what I believe to be true. I hope you will keep an open mind." Paul turned back to the pair. Mulder rubbed her back and asked if she would be okay. She slowly nodded and straightened her shoulders as if bracing herself for bad news. Mulder turned toward Paul and nodded, while keeping his hand on Scully's back for support. "Go on, Paul." "As I said before, I have lived here all my life. Our people have their own beliefs of life and death. We believe, in this life, the spirit gathers knowledge and passes that knowledge down to the next as the ones before them have done. In the afterlife, their spirit continues on in this world with that knowledge to comfort those left behind." Paul paused to take a breath before continuing. "This is what I know to be true. Danayah was a beautiful woman. She had long, wavy, red hair and her skin was pure, milk white. She had the most beautiful blue eyes. It was told they were as blue as the deepest ocean and many a man had found themselves mesmerized by her beauty and smile. Danayah had a fiery spirit. She loved life and she loved the sea. She would spend hours walking along the beach, singing and dancing under the moonlight." Paul paused once more and sighed. He turned toward the window and stared out across the ocean. "William was a tall man with brown hair. He had eyes that were as green as a field of clover. He had an adventurous spirit, a loving heart, but a haunted soul. It had been said he would never leave the sea. He was always searching for something. It was believed he was searching for his sister, who was lost at sea when he was still quite young himself. "Danayah and William met one evening. They talked for many hours as they strolled along the moonlit beach. They saw each other over the next several days and fell in love. William realized he had found the one person that could finally make his life complete. Although he still ached from the loss of his sibling, he knew he had found his soulmate. She was the one person that he could truly love and spend the rest of his life with. But he told her he had to leave soon. He needed to search one more time before he could finally put his sister's memory to rest. He left three days later with the promise to return in two weeks, on the eve of her thirtieth birthday." Paul turned back to Mulder and Scully with sad eyes. "Danayah also found her soulmate in William and vowed to wait for his return. Just before William's ship was to return, she received word of a shipwreck. His ship. No survivors were reported. Danayah would stand on the hill and look out over the ocean, praying and searching for William. On her thirtieth birthday, with no word of William, she walked into the ocean and disappeared." Mulder leaned forward when he felt Scully shiver beneath his hand. She sniffled and wiped the tears from her cheeks. "Are you alright, Scully?" he whispered softly in her ear. "I'm fi..." she paused and looked into Mulder's eyes. "I'm not sure. I have this feeling of sadness and longing. I can't explain it. I feel it deep down inside. It's so overwhelming." Mulder was on full alert when he saw the panic and fear in her eyes. "I can't ... breathe ... " He quickly stood and pulled her to the edge of the bed. "Paul will you get me a wet cloth, please? Scully, you're hyperventilating. I need you to calm down." Mulder was on his knees in front of her running, his hands up and down her arms. He felt Paul move up beside him and hand him the wet cloth. He gently bathed her cheeks and forehead. "You need to calm down and breath slowly for me. Come on, look at me. Scully, open your eyes and look at me," he pleaded softly. Scully slowly opened her eyes, but could only manage fast, shallow breaths. After a few tense moments, her breathing returned to normal. She finally took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. Mulder placed his hand on one cheek and lightly kissed the other. "I think you need to lay down for a little while. We can finish this later." Mulder looked at her with pleading eyes. "I'll lay down, but I'm feeling okay now. Really. I think we need to finish this. I know there is more that Paul to tell us. I need to know what is going on with me. I can't take any more of this, Mulder." Scully stroked his cheek, reassuring him with a smile. "All right, but just for a little while and we're done until tomorrow. I mean it, Scully." "I believe I'm rubbing off on you, Mulder. You're starting to sound like me." She laid back on the pillows Mulder had propped up for her. "I learn from the best, babe." Mulder settled on the bed next to Scully as Paul moved back to the chair in the corner of the room. "Miss Scully, I am sorry you are so deeply affected by what is happening and I believe Danayah is the reason for your distress. I believe, as do the people of my village, the spirit of a tortured soul will seek out its .. mirror image. In this case, Danayah has found you. I don't proclaim to know how or why, but somehow she has tapped into your very soul." Scully draped her arm across her eyes. "I think you may be right, Paul. I don't fully understand what is happening to me but your explanation is..." She raised her arm. Mulder stared at her, his mouth open. "What?" she asked, raising her eyebrow. "You never cease to amaze me. You always keep me guessing." She gave him a small smile and turned to Paul. "Paul, what do we do now? I don't know how to stop this." Paul shifted forward in his seat and studied his hands for a moment. "I'm not sure. But, I'll let you two rest, for now. It's getting late and my family will be expecting me home before long. I will see you tomorrow. Maybe I'll have some answers for you then." He stood and moved toward the door. Mulder patted Scully's leg and got up from the bed to join him. "Mr. Mulder, watch her closely and let me know if anything changes. I feel Danayah is getting stronger. I believe something big is going to happen in the next couple of days," Paul said softly as he opened the door. "What makes you believe anything will happen at all?" Mulder whispered as he glanced back at Scully. "In two days it will be Danayah's birthday," he said and quietly left. Mulder closed the door, sighed and then rubbed his eyes with the palm of hands. He walked back to the bed where Scully was now curled up on her side and lightly touched her cheek with the back of his hand. "I'll be right back." "All right." He brushed the hair from her face, kissed her brow, and then turned and walked to the bathroom. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder stood before the window and stared out at the sight before him. The sun was just disappearing behind the horizon, presenting a breathless array of color and light. He glanced over his shoulder at Scully's sleeping form. He had finally convinced her to close her eyes and sleep with his promise to stay close. It had been two hours since she drifted off into a fitful sleep. He turned and slowly walked to the edge of the bed, slipping in behind Scully and pulling her up close. He was so tired. So tired of constantly worrying and wondering if it would ever end. "We don't seem to get a break, do we, Mulder?" she said sleepily and laid her hand on top of his. "No, I guess we don't. I thought you were asleep. Are you hungry? We can call and have something brought in." He laid his chin on top of her head and sighed. "Not really. Too tired to move right now. Want to sleep. Just hold me until I fall asleep again." She yawned and snuggled closer to him, pulling his arms tightly around her waist. "Sleep, Scully. I'm not going anywhere. Love you." He bent down, kissing and nuzzling her cheek before settling once more behind her. "Love you, too, Mulder. So much." Her voice trailed off to a whisper as she drifted to sleep. It was midnight. He didn't want to sleep as he kept watch once again. His mind was steadily going over the events of earlier in the afternoon as he listened to the distant sound of waves rushing to meet the edge of the beach. 'I'm so tired.' He tried to keep his eyes open, but the rhythm of her steady breathing finally lulled him to sleep. ~x~x~x~x~ End Part 4 ~x~x~x~x~ Part 5 ~x~x~x~x~ The Elder sat once more on the edge of the hill, watching as the red light began to surface. The sight alone could take his breath away. The water gently churned around the fiery glow and the waves lazily tugged at the edge of the beach as the moon came out to play. Yearning to hear her voice began to tug at his heart. He closed his eyes as her soft melodic voice floated across a warm breeze and washed over him. He inhaled deeply and swore he could smell the floral scent of her perfume. He smiled, listened and basked in the warmth of her song. He spoke softly as she continued to sing. "I promised you it would be soon. Tomorrow, Danayah, tomorrow. You will be reunited with the one you love. I promise." Her song began to fade as the red light disappeared beneath the surface and the waters became calm again. Slowly he stood and turned to walk away. Out of the corner of his eye he saw two brilliant blue eyes staring back at him from the depths of the sea. He closed his eyes and sighed, "Tomorrow, Danayah, I promise, tomorrow." When he opened his eyes, they were gone. Again he turned and slowly walked back up the path. ~x~x~x~x~x~ Paul disappeared behind the curtain of trees that was blanketed by the darkness. He watched as the Elder rose and walked back up the old dirt path. He waited until the old man was out of sight, then quickly went to the edge of the hill. He stood watching and wondering. 'Why tomorrow? What is so special about tomorrow?' he thought, frantically searching his memory for answers. As he waited, deep in thought, a melodic voice floated across the gentle breezes and assaulted every nerve in his body. It was beautiful, but haunting. The mesmerizing voice pulled him to the edge of the cliff. He was startled by the touch of a warm hand and jumped back from the edge. Breathing hard, he looked around for the person that had touched his shoulder. No one was there. He was alone. A cold shiver ran down his spine as he looked once more across the sea. 'They need to know before it's too late,' he said to himself. Paul turned, drawing his arms around his body for warmth. He looked up the path and saw a woman smiling at him. Tears sprang to his eyes. "My beautiful Jennah. My wife." He whispered, closed his eyes and inhaled as her perfume washed over him. He opened his teary eyes and she was gone. With a smile, he quickly walked home, never looking back at the sea. ~x~x~x~x End Part 5 Chapter 5 TITLE: THE SILENT SEA (6/6) AUTHOR: XPHILERNJ E-MAIL: xphilernj@aol.com RATED: NC-17 CATEGORY: MSR CLASSIFICATION: X, T KEYWORDS: Angst, Humor DISCLAIMER: : Nope, don't own 'em. CC does. I just borrow 'em. SPOILERS: Post-Milagro/S.R. 819 DISTRIBUTION: Sure, fine, whatever. Just let me know where. I want visitation rights. SUMMARY: The silent sea can be unforgiving at times, but true love is undaunting and forgiving. Author Notes: This is my very first attempt at writing an X-file adventure. The places are real but may not be true to form. I did take a few liberties with my imagination and the myth contained in this story is also the product of my warped mind. I do apologize if I have offended anyone. Chapter 6 ~x~x~x~x~ The Next Morning Part 1 Danayah walked closer and closer to the edge of the grassy cliff, watched as the array of color and light of the sun dipped below the horizon. She always had a sense of peace and hope when watching the sun rest below the blanket of darkness, awaiting another day to begin. A feeling of sadness and longing washed over her. She closed her eyes, dreamed of a life filled with love promised to her not long ago. A promise that each day would surely begin with the love of her life. Her soulmate forever. "Why William? You promised to come back to me. Where are you?" she shouted her inquiry in anger. A single tear trailed down her cheek as her arms encircled her waist. Another tear fell. ~x~x~x~x~ She was running. Breathing hard. Hurt to breathe. Shouting his name. A hauntingly beautiful song engulfed Scully as she drew near the ocean's edge. Fear and dread tore at her heart as she clamped her hands over her ears, trying not to listen to it's hypnotic tone. Her blood ran cold. The laughter. The whispers. "Mine. He is mine. You cannot have him. He belongs to me. He is mine." "Nooo!! Mulder! Mulder!" 'Why won't he answer me?' As she drew closer, she could see Mulder standing dangerously close to the ocean's edge. Then, he disappeared from her sight. "Mulder!!! Noooooo!!!" She screamed, sank to her knees, deep in the sand. She covered her ears. The laughter and whispers taunted her. She couldn't breathe. Struggling to her feet, Scully began to run, screaming his name. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder's eyes flew open. His heart started racing from the blood curdling scream and the thrashing of arms around him. He quickly raised himself up and against the headboard. Reaching around her, from behind, with shaky hands he pulled her up against his chest. She gasped for air. He wrapped his arms around her, grabbing her wrists gently but firmly, then pulled them down and across her chest. "Shhh, Scully. I'm here. I've got you. Wake up, Scully," he softly whispered in her ear while he hugged her close to his chest. He felt as though his heart and lungs had stopped when he realized she was not breathing. He quickly sat up, unwrapped himself from around her, grabbed her shoulders and turned her to face him. Her eyes were wide with fear and her mouth slightly open. He placed two shaky hands on either side of her face. "Scully? Wake up, Scully! Breathe!!" His heart was pounding fiercely as he looked into her eyes, seeing nothing there but fear. Mulder looked around the room, as if by some miracle help would appear. Not knowing what else to do, he inhaled just before his mouth covered hers. He slowly exhaled into her open mouth and then pulled back. Nothing. He repeated this several times. Finally her eyes closed and opened slowly. Scully gasped and coughed. Mulder released her face, wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close to him, feeling their combined heart rates accelerate. He worked to calm his breathing while his still-shaking hands rubbed slow, lazy circles across her rigid back. Slowly, she began to relax, collapsing against him. She wrapped her arms around his waist, buried her face within his embrace and began to shake. "Scully?" he asked with a voice raspy and broken. "Mulder" she said weakly as her body continued to shake. Her tears soaked his shirt and she hugged him tighter. "Shhh.....it's gonna be okay, Scully. I'm here. I'm here." He gently rocked and continued rubbing her back. Mulder's worry and fear for Scully whirled with frightening speed through his brain. Drawing a breath and exhaling slowly, he tried to calm his heart to a reasonable pace, his face wet from his own tears. He had to be strong, had to pull himself together, he couldn't give into his fears and worries while she was slowly falling apart in his arms. It frightened him more than ever to see her this way, for her to let him see her this way. He could count on one hand the times she had let her guard down and let *him* comfort her. He loved her strength and God knows she had been his anchor more times than he could count. But those rare moments when she slipped to let him see just a glimpse, he loved her even more. He catalogued each and every rare moment as over time she gradually but cautiously let him slip through. Scully began to relinquish her tight hold around his waist, going limp as her breathing became slow and steady, and seeming to take comfort from Mulder's strong but gentle arms. He felt her movements and looked down to see her tear- stained face through strands of damp, auburn hair. There was a bit of sadness tugging at the corner of her mouth and a hint of fear still lingering within her eyes. His right hand came to rest on her cheek, then gently brushed the hair from her eyes. He stroked her cheek with his thumb, silently thanking her God once more. "Are you okay?" he asked with a soft whisper, not trusting his voice to betray his fear. "I'm fi......." she started to say, then paused and closed her eyes. When she opened them again, he tried to hide the worry in his eyes. "Exhausted. Mulder, I'm so tired," she softly said. Her eyes that told him she was too tired to talk. He kissed her forehead, silently letting her know he appreciated the effort. His back was beginning to ache and he slowly laid back on the bed. Not letting go of him, Scully followed and tightened her hold. "It's okay, Scully. I'm not going anywhere. Just relax and close your eyes. I'm here. I won't leave you." He continued to stroke her back with his left hand and her cheek with his right. She closed her eyes, but refused to relinquish the tight hold she had on him. She whispered softly, "Don't leave me." "Never, Scully. Never." His heart broke once more as she drifted off to sleep. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder slowly opened his eyes and tried to focus on the ceiling above. He turned his head and caught a glimpse of the clock on the night stand. '3:00' The room was brightly lit by the afternoon sun that shone through the glass balcony doors. He felt strangely relaxed and rested, even after the morning scare. He glanced down at Scully, relieved to see her calm face. He gently stroked her cheek and she stirred. Scully released him, and with a cat-like grace, started stretching and yawning. She opened her eyes to see Mulder staring down at her. She reached up and ran a finger across his cheek. "Hi," she said with a brilliant smile. "Hi, yourself. Feeling better?" Her smile was contagious and he smiled back. "Yeah. I am. What time is it?" she asked as her stomach rumbled beneath him. "Three. I guess we both were tired. Are you hungry?" he asked just as his own stomach began to growl. She giggled and he laughed. "Well, I guess that's it. We better go get something to eat." Mulder replied and started to raise up, but was held firmly in place by Scully's tight hold on him. "Scully? It's okay, I'm not going anywhere without you. I promise." He tried to reassure her by holding her tight and kissing her lips. "Can we just order something in, Mulder? Just this time." "Sure, we can do that. But, as much as I love this, you gotta let go so I can call the diner." He chuckled softly and ran his hand down her arm, picked her hand up and kissed it softly. "Sorry, Mulder. I just......I don't........" Mulder kissed her lips and stroked her cheek "I understand," he said as she released him. He turned and picked up the phone. ~x~x~x~x~ They sat in companionable silence as they ate their meal. Scully had barely eaten a bite and even though he tried coaxing her, she still refused. After more gentle coaxing, he seemed satisfied. She smiled at his efforts and recognized them for what they were. He was worried about her and she loved him for it, all the more. She watched him with a smile while he cleaned off the table and disposed of the cartons of left-over food. She loved him so much, she would surely die if anything ever happened to him. His hand came to rest on her cheek and she closed her eyes feeling the warmth as she leaned into his loving touch. A knock at the door startled both of them. Mulder walked to the door and opened it slowly. "Paul? What is it?" he asked with tension evident in his voice. Scully stood and slowly walked to Mulder's side. They stepped aside, letting Paul enter. "There is something you must know. It's the Elder and Danayah. Something is not right. I'm not sure what is going on but you need to know what I heard last night." Paul stared at the two of them. "Okay Paul, what is it?" Mulder asked cautiously. "I followed the Elder last night to the cliff. He was talking softly to Danayah so I couldn't hear everything he was saying. When he started to leave, he turned back and I heard him say, 'I promised you it would be soon. Tomorrow, Danayah, tomorrow. You will be reunited with the one you love. I promise.' He then walked away. When he was gone, I went closer, and that's when I heard and felt it." "What did you hear?" Mulder asked. "While I was standing there, I heard this strange and beautiful song. It was mesmerizing. I started walking toward the sound, not caring or realizing I was getting close to the edge of the cliff. I was startled by something, and then I didn't hear the song anymore after that." "Paul what......." Mulder stopped when he saw the look on Paul's face. "Miss Scully? Are you alright?" Paul asked. Her face was deathly pale. Mulder turned just as Scully reached for his arm. Her legs folded and she began to slowly drop to the floor. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 2 The dream came rushing back, jarring her senses with a force that caused her knees to buckle. She felt nothing but pain and fear. Heard nothing but the haunting song of the sea. Saw only Mulder disappearing before her eyes. She clasped her hands over her ears and began to scream his name. The tears were now streaming down her face, scalding her cheeks. The pain and fear of losing Mulder was more than her mind could grasp. The haunting laughter and whispers flooded her ears. 'He's mine. He's mine.' She rocked back and forth, screaming his name until she slipped behind a cloak of darkness. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder's adrenaline shot up as the horror unfolded before his eyes. His attempts to reach Scully as she screamed his name went unanswered. The terror that blazed within her eyes frightened him more than his worst nightmare ever could. In reality, this had become his worst nightmare. All his efforts to reach her were in vain. He caught her before she hit the floor. Her screams suddenly stopped and her body went limp. ~x~x~x~x~ Paul watched in horror at the scene before him. His mind and body went completely numb. He stood shaking as Mulder scooped Scully up in his arms and held her tightly to his heaving chest. Paul could see the tears that fell from Mulder's face as he carried her to their bed and gently laid her down. Scully's eyes were still open with the terror that apparently only she could see. He watched as Mulder sat beside her, caressing her face with shaky hands. Mulder leaned forward, kissing her face and whispering softly in her ear. He could see Mulder's body shake as his tears continued to fall. Paul could do nothing more than lean back against the door and slowly drop to the floor. He placed his folded arms on his knees and laid his head down and waited. He was not sure why or how, but her pain and suffering was his fault. He had come to warn them. But to warn them of what? That Danayah wanted to take Mulder? That Scully would have to fight to keep him? But how? He had the overwhelming urge to run, but his heart would not allow him to move. He needed to be sure she was all right, that she would return to this world safely. Return from a world Danayah had drawn her into. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder's heart felt like it was breaking apart as he looked into her empty eyes. He shook violently as he caressed her pale, tear-streaked face. Leaning forward, he whispered softly in her ear. "Scully, wake up. Don't you dare do this to me. Don't you dare leave me. You know I can't make it without you." His voice hitched in his throat as the tears continued to fall. "I love you, Scully. Please, baby, come back. Please, Scully, please." Mulder didn't know what else to do. But he knew he had to do something. He rose and gently lifted Scully up so he could slide in behind her. He pulled her up and close to his body, shifting her slightly so her head rested just above his heart. He had done this, on occasion, when Scully was sick or restless after waking from a bad dream. He shifted slightly to a more comfortable position. He brushed the hair from her face and caressed her cheek. As he whispered "I love you" in her ear, the fear of losing her caused his tear-rimmed eyes to overflow. He closed his eyes, crying harder than he ever remembered crying before. ~x~x~x~x~ In the darkness, her mind was free. No more singing. No more voices. She felt as though she was floating through time and space. Her body was weightless and free, but she felt sad and alone. Tears began to fill her eyes, when in the distance she heard the faint sound of someone crying. She listened closely. "Mulder," she whispered to herself. She could feel his fear and desolation deep within her soul. She longed to feel his strong arms wrapped securely around her. Her mind struggled to free itself from the dark place in which it had taken refuge. Mulder needed her. She needed him. Her senses became sharper and clearer as his heartbeat became louder and stronger beneath her ear. She inhaled the male scent that she knew well. She could feel his body shake and hear his soft cries as she slowly broke free of the darkness. "Shhh.....don't cry, Mulder, please don't cry...... Shhhh." She moved her arm around his waist and hugged him close. "Scully.". "Shhhh......don't cry," she softly said. "Oh God, Scully." She heard his voice hitch with every breath as he caressed her cheek. Responding to the touch of his hand, she struggled to open her eyes. She shifted in his embrace, trying to see his face. Her eyes finally focused, only to see the terror still present in his red-rimmed eyes. She reached up, placing the palm of her hand on his cheek, and ran her thumb across his lips. Mulder closed his eyes and leaned into the touch of her hand. He kissed her thumb. He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled as he opened his eyes. She could see the relief wash over him. Scully gathered herself together and summoned up the strength she needed from the steady beat of his heart. She sat up to see Paul moving across the room to the balcony window. Mulder sat beside her with a protective and possessive hand firmly but gently placed on her back. Rubbing small circles of comfort across her back gave her the contact she needed from Mulder. To know he was still with her. "Mulder, I'm fine. Really, I'm okay now." She tried to reassure him when he winced from her words. "I know, Mulder, but I...am...okay...now." Mulder nodded his head and she finally understood something she'd always wondered about. Why did he continue to risk his life, his sanity, to venture into the unknown. Since arriving to the islands, she had felt as though she was spiraling down into a dark abyss and was not sure if she would have the strength to return from such a desolate place. 'How does Mulder do it? How does he continue to step closer and closer to that dark place, only to return to me stronger than before?' Her tired and addled mind finally made the connection as she looked into Mulder's eyes. 'He won't venture out unless he knows I am there to bring him back and catch him if he falls.' A smile slowly graced her lips as her mind worked through the clips of her dreams. 'Mulder was there to catch me when I fell, he was there to bring me back when I got too close.' She looked down at her hand to see the ring Mulder had placed on her finger days ago. A single pearl held safe and secure between two strands of silver. 'What did Mulder say? As long as you wear this ring, you and the one you love will not be harmed. Two hearts entwined on a single journey. A journey made by two, becoming one. Soulmates. One life. One heart. One soul.' "Scully, what is it?" Mulder asked, raising up to meet her eyes. "Mulder, do you believe we were meant to meet and be together?" Placing his hand on her cheek, he softly said, "Scully you have become my life, my love and my soulmate. Yes, I believe we were meant to be." "So do I," she said, laying her hand on top of his. She looked deep within his eyes and knew his answer to be true. She hoped he could read her certainty, too. "Scully, why did you ask me that? Does this have something to do with the dreams?" "I think so. Paul said Danayah and William were soulmates. They loved each other very much. I believe my dreams hold the answers, but I'm not sure how, just yet." She cocked her head sideways, with a smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. She was hoping he would start to put the pieces together. If they were to figure this out, they would have to do so together. "Mulder, there is something I need to tell you." She inhaled and released a breath as she gathered the courage to tell him about her dream. "In the dream, I saw you standing on the shore, listening to someone singing. It was a strange, but beautiful, song. I called out to you, but you didn't seem to hear me. It was as if you were in a trance. I watched you walk into the water and disappear. Then I heard laughter and a woman's voice say, 'Mine, he is mine. You cannot have him. He belongs to me. He is mine.' I remember screaming your name and then there was darkness all around me. I remember feeling empty and alone. Then I heard crying and I knew it was you. I could feel it, feel you. I found myself being drawn to the sound. As I got closer, I felt safe. I could hear your heart beating. That's when I woke up, safe in your arms." Tears rimmed her eyes as she looked into his. "Scully, I was so scared. You stopped breathing. I was afraid I was losing you. I didn't know how to reach you. I ... I thought ..." His voice broke. "But, don't you see Mulder? You saved me. You brought me back. Like so many times before, your love brought me back." Mulder drew her into his arms and tenderly kissed her forehead. She laid her head on his chest, closed her eyes and listened, once again, to the strong beat of his heart. ~x~x~x~x~ Paul stood at the glass doors, listening and thinking. Danayah was getting stronger as Scully became weaker with each dream. He could see with each passing day the toll it was taking on her. With the revelation of this last dream, it had him worried. Would she be strong enough? Would she be able to face Danayah and win? Mulder would have to be the one to bring her through this. Only he could. He turned to face them and stepped to the end of the bed. He cleared his throat to get their attention and to let them know he was still in the room. "Paul, I'm sorry. I was so concerned about Scully I forgot you were here," Mulder said with sheepish, but tired, eyes. "Don't worry about it, Mr. Mulder, you had your hands full at the time. I'm sorry if I am intruding again, but I want to make sure Miss Scully is okay. I've been thinking about the dreams and I feel what I have come up with is not going to be pleasant for either one of you," he said quietly. Mulder jumped up from the bed. "What do you mean, not going to be pleasant for either one of us? If you haven't noticed already, this certainly has not been paradise so far." "Please, I'm sorry and I do understand. I don't mean to seem insensitive to what you have already been through. Mr. Mulder, I'm not going to tell you this will be easy, because it won't be. I can see the toll it has taken on Miss Scully and it distresses me to think what else she will have to go through." Paul paused, sighed, then continued. "Mr. Mulder, she will have to face Danayah. I can't tell you how Miss Scully will do this, but she will not be alone. It could be dangerous, for both of you, but especially for her. You will have to fight Danayah's hold on her to get her through this. Only you can." Mulder paced for a moment and then stood in front of Scully. He placed one hand on her shoulder, the other against her cheek. Paul could see the confidence, determination and fire in both their eyes and on their faces. "I don't know, Scully. What do you think? It's up to you." "No, Mulder. It's not just my decision. It is ours. We both have to agree to this, otherwise it won't work. Together we can do it. I believe we can." "Okay, then let's do it." She stood and walked into his waiting arms. "Paul, there is something I don't understand. Am I the one that Danayah wants, and if so, then why is Scully the one that has to confront Danayah?" Mulder asked. "I believe, Mr. Mulder, that you are the one that Danayah wants. But, Miss Scully is the one standing in the way of what she wants. Danayah is drawing her strength from Miss Scully, therefore weakening her, so she can claim you." Paul shrugged. "But, from what I have seen so far, I think Danayah will have a bigger fight on her hands than she intended." He smiled at the two and then moved slowly to the door and grabbed the door knob. "We don't have much time. It's almost sunset. Meet me in one hour in front of the church. We will go from there. Mr. Mulder, I said this wasn't going to be easy, but you two have what it takes to do this. You have each other." He opened the door and walked out, quietly closing the door behind him. ~x~x~x~x~ Scully could see the worry and frustration on Mulder's face as Paul closed the door. She knew better than to think he would go through with it without some kind of doubt. She knew he would be struggling to control the fear he held so close to his heart when it came to the possible danger to her. She watched him chew his bottom lip as he stared at the closed door. She reached up and rubbed her thumb across his lips to get his attention. He slowly closed his eyes, kissed her thumb and sighed. "Okay, Scully, I understand. But it still doesn't mean I won't worry about you." He opened his eyes and tilted his head when she shook her head. "What?" "Mulder, you know I love you. You also know I can take care of myself and anyone else that comes along." She walked to the bathroom door. Looking over her shoulder while Mulder stared after her, she continued, "Besides, you know I can kick your ass any day of the week." "Yeah, Scully, I know. So what's your point?" he asked with a mischievous smile. "Get in here so I can show you what I *really* want to do with that pretty little ass of yours." She disappeared behind the bathroom door. "Oooooooo! Scully I love it when you talk dirty." "Shut up, Mulder, and get in here." ~x~x~x~x~ At the edge of the grassy cliff, a lone figure stood watching and waiting as the dark clouds began to gather and the winds began to blow a little harder. The sun was slowly dropping as the last remnants of daylight were preparing to say goodbye to another day. "It won't be long now, Danayah. Tonight you will see your soulmate, your love. I promise," he softly said into the wind, with a smile on his face and a tear in his eye. 'I love you Danayah and always will,' he whispered to himself. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 3 Mulder emerged from the bathroom, pulling a t-shirt over his head as he called out to Scully, "I'm gonna make a quick call to Skinner to fill him in on what's going on. I shouldn't be too long. Then we'll take off." "Okay, but hurry, we have to meet Paul in about 20 minutes." Scully walked slowly toward the bed where Mulder sat talking to Skinner. A flash of light caught her eye as she passed the glass doors. She stopped and stared at the distant storm clouds slowly creeping closer. A shiver ran up her back and settled at the base of her neck, causing the fine hairs to tingle and stand on end. Her hand traveled slowly up and around her neck to gently rub against the sensation that was causing goose bumps to cover her entire body. Her heart began to beat faster as a surge of anxiety hit her, deep within the pit of her stomach. She started shaking from an intense feeling of being cold and wrapped her arms around her trembling body. She no longer felt in control of her emotions, body or life, feeling as though she was being slowly drawn into a dark abyss. An acute sense of loss and loneliness enveloped her as unbidden tears began to fall. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder could see Scully out of the corner of his eye. He quickly gave Skinner their report. He became anxious when she raised her hand to the back of her neck and her body shook. He abruptly told Skinner goodbye and replaced the receiver. He quickly rose and made his way to her as she wrapped her arms around her waist. He called her name softly before gently wrapping his arms around her. She tensed up for just a moment and then relaxed in his embrace, grabbing his hands with hers and holding on. "Scully, what's going on?" He softly kissed her damp cheek and laid his chin on her shoulder. "I don't know, Mulder. I feel so cold. So damned cold and.......lonely." He turned her to face him, placing both hands on her face and looking deep into her teary eyes. "Scully is this how *you* feel or is this Danayah again?" "No, Mulder... I ... I don't know anymore. It just came over me ... this ... this feeling of loneliness and longing. Mulder, do you think it's somehow ... Danayah?" "Yeah, I do. I mean, I've never seen you like this before. I've seen you lonely and I've seen you cry more times than I want to remember. But, I've never seen you this emotionally beaten before. Scully, it worries me. I have a theory though. I believe ... Danayah is responsible. Somehow she's drawing off your strengths, leaving you emotionally drained and you are somehow feeling what she's feeling." "I believe you, Mulder. I don't think I could come up with a scientific explanation for this one." "Oooooo, Scully, does this mean I'm rubbing off on you after all?" "You're not going to let me forget this one, are you, Mulder?" "Not on your life, babe. You'll earn the name Mrs. Spooky yet. I kinda like the sound of that." "Don't push it, Mulder." She warned, the gave him a soft smile of reassurance before continuing. "We'd better get going. Paul's probably waiting on us." "Okay, G-woman, let's get going." As he switched off the light, an eerie silence enveloped the room. A shiver ran down his spine as he closed the door. As they stepped through the front door and onto the front porch, the warm, thick humidity hung in the air like dense fog, making their skin feel hot and clammy. Early evening no longer held the crisp, cool, island breeze as they made their way down the path to the old church at the edge of the village square. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 4 Paul paused his pacing in front of the church to rake his hand through his hair and then down his face. 'What have I gotten them in to? This isn't a mistake. They are the link.' The rapid succession of thoughts through his mind sent a wave of jumbled emotions tumbling after them. Fear ... uncertainty ... relief. When he saw Mulder and Scully out of the corner of his eye, he straightened up and pushed his emotions aside before facing them. He couldn't let them see how much this was affecting him. He started to pace again. His legs shaky as he ran his hand down his sweat drenched faced. He began to breathe harder and wondered why it was so hot. He looked up, frowned, seeing the ominous clouds moving in. "Paul is something wrong? You don't look so good," Mulder asked. "No, no. I'm fine. Just waiting for you and ... wondering if this is a good idea. I mean, Miss Scully is not strong right now and I fear that I may have put you in the middle of this when I should not have. I'm sorry, Miss Scully. Please forgive me." Paul said, breathing hard, his eyes begging forgiveness. "Paul, there is nothing to forgive. You had nothing to do with what is happening to me." Scully paused and stepped out of Mulder's embrace. "Paul, are you sure you're feeling okay?" Paul shook his head, regretting the move immediately. He stumbled and reached out. Mulder and Scully grabbed for his arms. He steadied himself, wiping his face again and running his hand across the back of his neck. "Paul, I think you should sit down," she said as she reached for his wrist to check his pulse. "Come on over here. Sit on the steps and rest a minute. I think this heat is affecting you more than you know. You should be careful." ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder watched quietly as Scully checked Paul over. He looked around the village and noticed not many people were stirring. The heat must be driving them inside,' he mused to himself. The dim sound of music drew his attention away from Scully and Paul. 'Well, at least someone is having a romantic evening, out of this god-awful heat. Nice music. I wonder where it's coming from?' Mulder scanned the area. The music was getting louder. He looked over at Paul and Scully. They didn't seem to notice. He slowly turned around, searching, but not quite able to figure out where it was coming from. He took a few steps and listened. The music sounded clearer behind the church. Mulder's curiosity grew as he stepped toward the corner of the building. He glanced back to see Scully still taking care of Paul. 'I should tell her I'll be right back. But I'm not going far, she probably won't even know I've left.' With that last thought he turned and walked to the back of the old building. Mulder's attention was quickly drawn to the distant sound of the ocean sweeping across the shore. A gentle breeze floated through the trees, carrying a sweet floral fragrance that caressed his face and seduced his senses. The sound of music floated all around him as he started down the path. He was driven by the unknown, quickly walking, then running down the path toward the sound of the ocean, the fragrant breeze and haunting music drawing him out into the open. His mind was oblivious to anyone and anything around him as he stood at the edge of the trees searching for something, someone. But what? Who? With a sense of urgency, he was drawn to the beach by the melodious sound and closed his eyes as the breeze caressed his face like a soft, gentle hand. Mulder slowly opened his eyes, trying to rub the blurry images away. 'Where's Scully?' He gasped finding himself at the edge of the cliff, looking out across the horizon as the sun began to set. 'How long have I been standing here?' he thought as the brilliant colors lit the sky and then disappeared into the night. The moonlight came out and playfully danced across a calm sea as distant storm clouds drew near. 'The moon? Where did the sun go?' Mulder shook his head, then stood in awe as a soft red glow slowly made it's way up from the deep, up to the surface to bathe in the moonlight. The beautiful sound of a woman's voice, singing softly, captured his mind, heart and soul, holding him close to the edge. His mind, no longer his. ~x~x~x~x~ Scully checked Paul's pulse one last time. Satisfied that he would be alright, she turned to get Mulder. "Mulder..........Mulder?" She turned back to Paul. "Paul did you see where Mulder went?" "No, Miss Scully." Paul shook his head slowly. The prospects of where he went dawned on her and without another word, she was off and running down a path she only knew from her dreams. "May all the gods be with you and protect you," Paul yelled to her as she disappeared. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 5 The Elder watched and waited. On the distant horizon the sun was bidding another day goodnight as the storm clouds quickly gathered nearer. The moon came out against the eerily dark sky. A feeling of anticipation and hunger grew as the soft, red glow slowly made its way to the surface to greet the moonlight. Still, he watched and waited as he sat at the edge of the cliff one last time. A gentle breeze, bathed in floral fragrance, swept across him and into the night. Her soft voice sang a song that shook him to the depths of his being. A song he had come to know so well. He closed his eyes, letting the breeze and melody wash over him, lost in his memories and dreams. He opened his eyes, the sudden change in her voice bringing him out of his reverie. He rose to see a lone dark figure standing at the ocean's edge. A wave of panic and fear rose up within him and gripped his heart with an iron fist. 'No, Danayah. Not him. It is not him.' He quickly moved to the left and started down the face of the hill to the sandy beach. When the Elder reached the beach and walked toward Mulder, he could see the young man struggle against the hold Danayah now tried so hard to keep. He came to a halt when the rumble of thunder and flash of lightning drew his attention to the night sky. The clouds were quickly forming overhead while the sea began to churn and the red light became brighter. ~x~x~x~x~ Scully rounded the corner of the old church and ran as fast as her feet could possibly carry her. Down a path she recognized from her dreams, she frantically searched and listened for any sign of Mulder. When she reached an opening through the trees, she paused for a moment before running toward the sound of the ocean and the eerie song that had haunted her day and night. Determination replaced the fear and panic when she reached the cliff, seeing Mulder standing at the ocean's edge. Scully quickly looked left and then right of the grassy edge for a path to the beach. About ten feet to the right was a steep incline. Looking to the left, about 15 feet, was another path. Weighing her options carefully she decided to take the path to the right which would put her right behind Mulder. She quickly but carefully made her way down the steep embankment, calling out to him as she descended. ~x~x~x~x~ Somewhere deep within him, Mulder struggled against the force that held him, pulling him closer to the water's edge. His mind had succumbed to the hypnotic voice of the deep as a war waged within him. His heart began to race frantically and his body shook when he heard a familiar voice calling out to him. The struggle between a force driving him closer to the edge of nothingness and an overwhelming feeling of love for Scully became too much and he collapsed to his knees. ~x~x~x~x~ As soon as Scully's feet hit the sand, she was running, calling out his name, jumping at the flare of lightning and pounding of thunder. She saw Mulder's body begin to shake and then collapse. Panic and fear tightened around her heart when he hit the ground. She fell to her knees in front of him, oblivious to the angry waves clashing around them, grabbing his face with her hands and looking into his eyes. Tears streaming down his face, he softly called her name. "Scully." "Yes, Mulder it's me," she said as she kissed him. Scully wrapped her arm around his waist as he struggled to his feet and let him rest against her. His arms automatically wound around her as he pulled her close to his shaking body. "Love you, Scully," he said softly against her ear. A clash of thunder and a bolt of lightning caused them to jump and turn toward the angry sea. They quickly moved away from the ocean's edge as the winds began to blow, the rain fell and the sea churned violently. In the distance, they could see the Elder walking slowly to the water's edge. What they saw next would haunt their dreams. The moon hid behind the angry dark clouds as if afraid to peek out again. Huge drops of rain continued to fall as the wind blew stronger. Rolling waves rushed ahead, beating against the sandy shore. Mulder and Scully could do nothing more than watch as the Elder pleaded with Danayah. Their hearts rapidly beat against each other as their minds tried to grasp what they were seeing. As the sea became angrier, Scully began to lose what little strength she had left. The journey that had brought her to this place finally took its toll on her already weak body. Her legs buckled causing her to gradually slip from Mulder's arms. He desperately struggled to hold her upright, but her body was slick from the pouring rain. With what little hold he still had, he gently lowered her to the ground, cradling her in his arms. He frantically called her name as she slowly closed her eyes. "Dammit, Scully. Danayah, Noooo!" she heard Mulder scream as her body went limp. ~x~x~x~x~ Part 6. She was so tired. She didn't want to struggle any longer. As she slipped beneath the blanket of darkness, Scully felt as if she were being torn apart. Her mind and body were being pulled in one direction, her heart and soul in another. A war was raging within her that she was not sure she had the strength to fight as she was being pulled deeper and deeper within the abyss. Standing before her was a pale skinned woman, with long fiery red hair, angry blue eyes and a long, green dress flowing around her small body. "You will never have him. He is mine!" Danayah said angrily, pulling Scully closer and closer to the edge. Something within Scully snapped as fiery blue eyes met equally angry blue ones. "No, Danayah. He is not your William. He is not the one you want. Mulder is mine and always will be." ~x~x~x~x~ "Danayah! No! Leave them alone! Release her now! It is not him. Danayah!" the Elder pleaded and shouted through the rain that pelted him relentlessly. A loud clash of thunder roared through his ears as a strong gust of wind hit him full force, causing him to stumble back and fall to the ground. The angry waves came closer as they crashed against the sandy shore. As he gingerly rose to his knees, he screamed her name. "Danayah! Leave them be. It is not him you seek, it is me," he shouted, slowly rising to his feet. ~x~x~x~x~ Danayah screamed as the fine thread of sanity and strength, which held Scully to her, broke. A tidal wave of emotions raged through Scully's body when she heard Mulder calling her name. Scully gasped for air and struggled against Mulder's embrace, trying to free herself from the dark abyss. She felt Mulder's arms pull her tighter against his chest, heard him cry, and felt his tears. Slowly her body began to relax. Then she whispered his name. "Mulder." ~x~x~x~x~ The Elder could hear Danayah's screams from the deep. Angry waves rose and twirled within the wind and rain. The red glow grew brighter and brighter as it broke the surface and within a twister of water. The Elder softly called her name as she appeared and stepped onto the sandy beach. ~x~x~x~x~ "Scully, come on open your eyes. Open your eyes for me. Come on, Dana, open your eyes," Mulder softly pleaded against her cheek. Scully opened her eyes and said. "Had ya big time." Mulder released a long breath and then kissed her smiling lips. "Yeah, you did." He chuckled lightly to himself and then said, "God Scully, I love you." He gingerly rose, bringing her up with him. "Can you stand?" Scully nodded, then her eyes opened wide and she whispered, "Mulder. Look." Mulder slowly turned, holding her close to his side. Both stood and stared in awe at the sight before them. "Mulder, is that ... " "Yeah, William," he quietly said. ~x~x~x~x~ The rain ceased to fall and the wind died down to a gentle breeze as Danayah slowly walked up to the man that stood before her. Her long red hair and green dress flowed around her small body as she reached out and laid her small hand upon his cheek. The once angry blue eyes softened and glowed like blue sapphires in the moonlight. "William?" she asked in a soft voice tinged with loneliness. "Yes, Danayah. It is me, William." The Elder closed his eyes against the caress of her gentle hand then turned and kissed her palm. Two hearts, two souls collided within their own little universe. She closed her eyes and whispered his name in reverence. When she opened them again, the man that once stood before her was no longer aged by time. A tall, thin man with dark brown, wavy hair and brilliant green eyes, smiled back at her. Danayah gasped and then smiled. "Oh, William, I've waited so long. I missed you so much." With that he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her with all the love he had within his heart. Apologies for lost time poured out of every kiss. She sighed and deepened the kiss, letting him know he was forgiven. When they finally caught their breath, he placed his forehead against hers and said, "I think we have some unfinished business to take care of. There are two people we need to apologize to." Danayah smiled up at him, nodding her head as she blushed shyly. "I suppose I should anyway," she said with a gleam in her eye and taking William's hand in her own. ~x~x~x~x~ Mulder watched in awe as William and Danayah slowly approached. When they stopped within a few feet of them, William began to speak, but Danayah laid a gentle hand upon his arm and shook her head. William nodded and Danayah began. Danayah released William's hand and stood before Mulder, smiling. She reached up with her small hand and caressed his cheek. "You are so much like my William. I am so sorry for hurting you. Can you ever forgive me, William?" Mulder was taken aback when he heard her say his middle name and nodded his head. He smiled when he looked into her eyes and saw his love reflecting back at him. His Scully, she was so much like her. Seemingly satisfied, Mulder watched as Danayah turned to Scully with sad eyes. She reached out and placed Scully's hand between the two of hers. "Dana, I knew it was wrong, but I believe you understand why I did what I did. My love for William overshadowed my better senses. I am so sorry for hurting you. My only hope is that you will look within your heart and forgive me somehow." Mulder smiled and heard her softly say, "I do forgive you. I would fight just as hard for my William as you did for yours." "And you did." Danayah smiled and Mulder watched as she walked back to William. He embraced her and smiled at Mulder and Scully. "I want to apologize to the both of you. I should have confronted you when I realized what was happening. Living between worlds has cost me so much. I guess I was afraid of losing what I thought I could never have. I, also, am so sorry for putting you both through so much pain. I don't expect your forgiveness but my only hope is that in time you will understand." Mulder stepped behind Scully and wrapped his arms around her before he spoke. "I think we both understand and forgive. I know how hard I would fight to keep her and I now know how hard she has fought to keep me. I'm not gonna say it has been a pleasurable experience, but I think we do understand." Mulder felt Scully's arms wrap around his and held them tight. Then heard her speak. "I'm glad you finally found William. What will you do now?" Danayah looked up at William with a smile and they both said, "Go home." Mulder and Scully watched as the two soulmates walked hand in hand down the sandy beach. Scully turned her head up to look into his eyes and smiled. Mulder bent down and gently kissed her lips. He sighed, looked up and inhaled sharply. Scully looked back at the beach and gasped. "Where did they go?" she asked warily. "Home," he simply said. "Let's go home, Scully." She turned as Mulder took her hand in his and started walking back up the beach toward the path that would lead them back home. ~x~x~x~x~ Epilogue The moon was shining brightly above as its light danced once more across a calm sea. Atop the grassy cliff, a lone figure stood watching and smiling. Paul turned with a sigh and made his way back up the path as he thought of his late wife. 'Was it her? Did she come to me that night? I want to believe.' A gentle breeze, laced with a floral scent, caressed his face. He stopped and closed his eyes. He inhaled the familiar fragrance from a time long ago. "Jennah" he said softly and opened his eyes to a vision of beauty. Jennah was standing before him in a soft, white, flowing dress, beauty beyond compare. She was smiling at him lovingly. "Jennah?" "Yes, my love, it *was* me." "But, how?" "Paul, I have and always will be with you. Always." She smiled and ran her hand across his cheek. "I love you. We will be together soon." Paul watched with sad eyes as *his* soulmate faded away. "I love you too, Jennah." he whispered into the night. With a smile on his face and a sense of peace and love, he continued up the path that would lead him home. ~x~x~x~x~ In the small hospital room, Molina sat beside the bed, watching and praying. The only sound she heard was a constant beep, a reminder that her husband's heart was still beating strong. She looked upon his pale face and caressed his cheek with a gentle hand. A small smile graced his lips as his eyes began to open slowly. "Monge," she softly said, as her tears streamed down her face. "Molina." His voice was low and hoarse from many days of disuse. "I'm home." Molina smiled and laid her head upon his chest, sobbing uncontrollably as she listened to his strong heart beating within him. Reynaldo and Ninos entered the room to the joyful reunion. His brother was home. Ninos hugged her husband and cried. "Where have you been, brother?" Reynaldo asked. "Away, but I'm home now." Monge laid his hand across Molina's head and gently stroked her long black hair. "I'm home," he softly whispered, then closed his eyes. "One day, brother, you will have to tell us where you've been." Reynaldo quietly said. Monge simply nodded and drifted back to sleep. ~x~x~x~x~ Scully finished her report and emailed it to Skinner, then closed her laptop and stretched her arms above her head. She switched off the table lamp and turned toward the bed. She smiled at the sight of Mulder stretched out across the bed, the moonlight through the glass doors casting a soft glow over his face as he slept. She jerked her head to the right when she saw something moving out of the corner of her eye. She gasped and threw her hand up to her mouth. Tears stung her eyes and she blinked several times to clear her vision. "Dana," Melissa whispered with a smile. "Missy? Is that you?" Scully choked out. She blinked once more, then slowly rose from her chair. "Yes little sis, it's me." Melissa turned toward Mulder's sleeping form, a sweet smile spread across her face. "Do you still have the ring I gave him?" Scully's wide eyes glistened with tears and she nodded her head. "That was you?" "Yes, little sis. That was me. He loves you, you know. So much that he would give up his own life. Take care of him, Dana. When you look at the ring, remember what he told you. Always keep him close to your heart. Talk to him, Dana, he needs to know you still love and need him." "Missy, I do love him with all my heart. But sometimes it is so hard to tell him what I feel and need," she said with, tears threatening to spill again. "Dana, when will you learn? He is your soulmate, your lifeline. Trust me, little sis, no matter what, he will always love you. No matter what. Remember, always remember, he loves you more than life itself," she said as she began to fade into the shadows once again. "I love you, Dana." "Missy? Missy, I love you, too." Dana sat heavily in the chair, covering her face with her hands. Her shoulders began to shake. "Scully? What's wrong. What happened?" he asked, gently pulling her hands from her face. She gasped not realizing he had awoke and was crouched before her. She flung her arms around him, and dropped to the floor on her knees. She clung to him, sobbing into his neck as his arms wrapped around her to hold her close. Mulder whispered words of comfort as he gently rocked her. When her cries began to slow and her body began to relax against him, he slowly rose to his feet bringing her up with him. He gently picked her up and laid her on the bed turning, her onto her side. He spooned up behind her, pulling her close once more. His hand pushed the hair behind her ear and caressed her cheek. "Scully, talk to me. Tell me what's wrong?" he softly pleaded. Scully grabbed his hand and folded it close to her rapidly beating heart as she tried to gain control of her breathing before trying to speak. He silently waited, kissing her cheek and nuzzling her ear. . "I saw Melissa. Right here in this room. She spoke to me, Mulder. I couldn't believe my eyes at first, but she was here." She drew in a shaky breath and closed her eyes. . "What did she say?" Mulder asked. She hesitated. Mulder waited. 'Talk to him, Dana.' She could hear her sister's voice loud and clear. She turned onto her back so she could look into his eyes. She cupped his face with the palm of her hand and rubbed her thumb across his cheek. She took a deep shaky breath. "She told me you were my soulmate, my lifeline and that you loved me, more than life itself. She said to keep you close to my heart and to talk to you and let you know how I felt and when I needed you." His voice was raspy when he asked, "And what did you tell her?" "That I love you with all my heart and it was hard for me to tell you sometimes how I feel or what I need. But she said to always remember no matter what, you will always love me." "Your sister is a very smart woman." "You're just learning this about the Scully women?" she asked with a raised eyebrow. "Scully, you are the smartest, the strongest, and the most beautiful woman I know. I think at this point I would be taking my life in my own hands if I said otherwise." "Well, I know what those capable hands can do." She kissed his hand. "And those eyes." He closed his eyes as she kissed each one. "And those lips." She softly kissed his lips, then deepened the kiss, showing him just how much she truly loved him. ~x~x~x~x~ As they lay, his arms wrapped around her, Mulder gazed out the glass doors as the moonlight spilled into the room and across the bed where they lay. His eyes slowly closed as he listened to the silent sea and smiled as he drifted off to sleep. The gentle breeze swirled and dipped to touch the surface of the calm sea. The moon was out to play once more, rays of light and gentle winds entwined and danced as the silent waves washed across a sandy shore. As with true love, the sea can be a force of nature to be reckoned with. The silent sea can be unforgiving at times, but true love is undaunting and forgiving. ~~Finis~~ If you made it this far, congratulations. Either you made it here out of sheer will or you really enjoyed the fic. Please let me know what you thought of my little adventure. Feedback is always welcomed at xphilernj@aol.com This story has been a labor of love for me. It started out as a simple paragraph sent to a friend as a possible teaser for a story. Upon receiving it, she promptly told me that I should write the story. I had no idea what I was getting into. I had no idea how this story was going to end much less begin. I had no beginning, no middle and no end to work with, except for a few words I had written. As you can see, those few words turned into what you have managed to finish reading. My only hope is that you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it. Authors Note: I would like to send a big virtual hug to Ninos, Rey for letting me use their names in my story. To my family for their continued support and being my biggest fans. A huge smile to Rhetta for constantly threatening me with her pointy stick along with the verbal abuse if I did not write this story. I owe you a case of Mocha Frappachino babe. Great big virtual hugs and thanks to Fibbie, for hanging in there with me, with love and support as well. Thanks for everything babe. You're the greatest. Angels' kisses to my SweetSallie for being a constant support that I needed badly at times. And my biggest thank you to Mimi for jumping in with both feet and making me work harder than I can ever remember. Virtual hugs and Angels' kisses to you, doll. You are the best. You took on this monster without a second thought and made it worth reading. I don't think I could repay you enough for all your gentle and not so gentile poking and proding. You made me smile more than once with your wicked sense of humor, nudges of enthusiasm, and precious compliments when I did good. You are the greatest.