Chiana wiped her face, glaring over the controls of the prowler as she punched in a frequency on the transmit.

"Are you there?" She asked.

"What the frell!" A womans voice came back.

"Right," Chiana smirked as she wiped the tears falling down her damp cheeks. "80 microts okay?"

"Hezmana!" The woman protested. "Like yesterday you tralk!"

Chiana glided the prowler beyond the planets atmosphere and waited until a large cargo carrier shot into the same space and then did a full turn like a skid and slowly came drifting back. She eased the prowler into the docking bay and popped open the hatch, standing up in the c ock pit as she watched the docking bay doors open. She sat on the edge, gazing down as the woman aproached.

She looked up at Chiana, pursing the lips of her humanly face as she flicked a luxan tendon off of her shoulder. Her copper eyes widend on Chiana wildly. Chiana tilted her head as she looked away over her shoulder and sniffed, wiping her eyes again. The woman wasn't a true luxan but related to them.

"How's it going Mokan?"

************************

Nhfearme
12/24/00
Captain Shelan's Return
IC:

Setig comes into the room, to Crichton.

"Help me up!" John holds out his arm.

"Here, Crichton." Setig first opens a box on the bedside table and indicates the yellow capsules.

John reaches into the box and takes a capsule. He places it in his mouth.

"You should eat, Crichton" Setig prompts. He takes John's arm and helps him to sit up.

"Where did she go?" John tries to stand. "Gotta' get her." John is faint.
"Danger."

Setig holds him steady. "Please. Rest Crichton. We can't catch her now."

Just then, Shelan storms in. "Setig! I have been looking for you! Who took my Prowler?"

John allows himself to sit so that Setig can deal with Shelan.

"Well?" Shelan asks angrily.

Setig stands and faces Shelan. "Chiana." He growls.

"Not a very good start for your first day, Shelan." John says, holding his head.

"Chiana?" Is all that Shelan can say.

"When she comes back? I want you off the property." John says.

"You haven't given me a chance, Crichton!" Shelan is upset. "I can prove my worth! You'll see!" He turns quickly and walks out of the room.

"Humph!" Setig turns back to Crichton. "Peacekeeper!" He says with disdain.

Suddenly they hear Crichton's prowler powering up.

"Not my Prowler!" Crichton yells. "Setig! Can you stop him?"

Setig is already gone. He runs up to the Prowler just as Shelan fires its thrusters to blast off.

Captain Shelan pulls a device out of his Officer's jacket and places it on the Comms panel. He pulls out a wire and plugs it in. There is a distinctive "Beep!"

A sweeps comes up on the display. Shelan watches it and banks left in the Prowler to follow it. After a hundred Microts, he nears it.

"Beep-Beep!" "Beep-Beep-Beep!" "Beep-Bip-Bip-Bip-Beeeeeeeeeeep!" The indicator sounds as he nears the source.

He cautiously lands Crichton's prowler in the docking bay and reconnoiters. He enters a corridor, he stops suddenly; Voices.

Captain Shelan tries to hear, but the voices are faint. One thing he does know. One belongs to Chiana.

***********************

ChianaGray
12/24/00
Captain Shelan's Return
IC:

Shelan eased out towards the room until he could just see Chianas back as she held a hushed argument with someone else. He moved closer until he could see the luxan like woman leaning against the wall with her arms crossed as she stared down at the floor.

"But you've got to - to tell them that for me," Chiana insisted intently.

"Tell who what?" Shelan asked as he stepped through the door way. Chiana whirled to him, a light gasp escaping her as she drew in her breath. The other woman came to her feet, her eyes widening on Shelan as she pulled up her yard long version of a qualta blade.

"Shelan."

"Shelan?" Mokan looked to Chiana, her brows creasing angrily as she stepped towards the PeaceKeeper. "You were supposed to kill him by now Chiana, not trail him behind you!"

Shelan snatched his pulse pistol from his side, aiming it at Mokans head as he cut Chiana a sharp glare.

"I don't know what's going on," he stated smoothly. "But I assure you I will find out."

"That's the problem with you, Shelan." Mokan curled her lip at him. "You find out too much. I'll send you back to Scorpious myself, in pieces."

"Mokan wait," Chiana stepped in between them, swaying her head. "He helped us - helped me find Crichton."

"So you found him," Mokan grunted as she turned her eyes to Chianas feet and back into her eyes again as she side stepped around her. "You should have killed him the moment he was no longer any use to you. You can't afford to be selfish, there's too much at risk! I can't let him just walk away."

She lunged from Chianas side into Shelan, tackeling him to the ground. She twisted the pulse pistol out of his hand, pointing it into his forehead. Chiana pushed her off of him with a harsh shout.

"I still need him damnit!" She shouted as Mokan swept Shelans feet when he tried to rise, nocking him down again. "Don't question my descisions now! Mokan!"

Mokan lashed out her toung in a luxan fashion, darting Shelan in the neck. He shouted, grasping the sting of her thorny prongs as he turned to his knees, beggining to black out.

"I'm not questioning your abilities!" Mokan spoak harshly as she grabbed his arms. "Frell! Chiana, who are you with right now? Crichton or the resistance? Shelan dies!"

"I - I..."

Shelan let out a sharp breath as he heard Chiana's unsure voice, his brows creasing darkly as he felt himself tunneling down into unconsiousness. "Oh Chiana."

****************************

Nhfearme
12/24/00
Captain Shelan's Return
IC:

Mokan raises her Qualta, swinging quickly to end Shelan's life. Chiana lunges at her, knocking her down. The blade skids across the floor.

"Stop! Mokan!" Chiana pins Mokan to the floor.

Mokan's tongue darts out again. Chiana moves quickly enough to avoid it.

"I am still resistance Mokan!" Chiana says. "But I have a use for Shelan now!" She holds Mokan tightly under her grip. "Captain Shelan has deserted the Peacekeepers to serve me!"

Mokan huffs. "You mean to tell me he deserted Scorpius? Impossible! Scorpius would have him killed, immediately!"

"How can he? The Scarran leader Pagar has him imprisoned!" Chiana glares at Mokan, feeling Mokan relax under her grip.

"Scorpius a prisoner?" Mokan asks.

"Yes!" Chiana still grits her teeth. "Now if you are calm, I can release you."

"I'm calm." Mokan says.

Chiana releases her.

Mokan gets up and walks to her chair. Suddenly Mokan turns and lashes out her tongue, striking Chiana!

Chiana grabs her neck. "You Frelling.... Mokan how could you?" Chiana says as she falls and lands over top of Captain Shelan.

Chiana wakes. She looks up at the dismal bars above her. She rises to get her bearings. She sees a man chained. She tries to focus her eyes. It is Captain Shelan!

"Mokan!" Chiana shouts and rattles the bars. "Mokan! Let me out of here!"

Mokan approaches the bars and looks in at her. "As soon as I'm sure you are 'calm' Chiana.

"Why have you got Captain Shelan chained?" Chiana asks looking over at him as he lay, unconscious.

"Just checking out his story." Mokan says as she plays with the keys.

"I'm sure you can understand my caution. You of all people know that Peacekeepers can't be trusted!" Mokan reminds her.

"Until his story checks out. k" Chiana says. "Then what?"

"If not? We stick with the plan." She cuts her eyes to Chiana. "He dies."

***********************

ChianaGray
12/24/00
Captain Shelan's Return
IC:

"You let me out of this frelling thing right now Mokan!" Chiana charged as she shoved her hands against the bars and kicked into the lock.

"Oh no," Mokan shook her head, crossing her arms as a moan escaped from Shelans cell. "If I'm convinced of Shelan you'll get out. This isn't about your need for him Chiana. I have to be sure."

"Great," Chiana nodded at her as her dark eyes seemed to soften. "So are you going to check his story out or let your hatred for PeaceKeepers get the better of you?"

Mokan looked to Shelans cage without expression.

"They tortured you," Chiana tilted her head as she neared her own cells bars and grasped one of them. "Made you a slave. I pulled you out right? You work for me Mokan... and I'm against this. You can't just - can't just think about the missions without concidering what I'm trying to do."

"But you got what you were trying to do," Mokan grumbled as she narrowed her eyes on Shelans movements. "This time Chiana, it has nothing to do with you - and everything to do with you. He'll check out - for our sake. That, or you'll be leaving without him. He shouldn't have come here."

************************

Nhfearme
12/24/00
Captain Shelan's Return
IC:

Crichton finally sits to eat at Setig's urging. Worrying about Chiana won't bring her back any sooner.

As John eats Jake comes running out. Finally rid of his black pajamas from the Command Carrier he sports a nice playsuit made of local fabrics and leather.

"Daddy!" Jake shouts as he runs from Jeriana's arms to him.

"Hi Jake. Nice nap?" John asks him.

"Yes, Daddy. I dreamed that we were in the prowler again fighting the Scarrans!" He says.

"Great, Jake." John takes a bite of food. "You get enough to eat?"

"Yes, but Jeriana said I could have a snack any time." He looks at Jeriana, standing in the corner. "May I please have a snack now, Jeriana?"

"Yes, little master." Jeriana speaks and gives a little bow, leaving for the kitchen.

"Jake, you said that very nicely. I'm proud of your good manners." John tells him. "But this bowing and calling you 'little master.'"

"I know Daddy. They sure talk funny here." Jake says.

"Why don't you ask them to call you by your name?" John asks.

"I told them my name! I asked them to call me Jake! They just won't Daddy. I don't know why." Jake rubs his nose, still waking up.

"I'll talk to them for you Jake." John says.

Jeriana brings the snack and a drink, placing it in front of Jake.

"Jeriana." John says softly. "Jake and I would like you to call him by his name. Would you do that please?"

Jeriana clears her throat and looks at Jake. "Yes, master Jake." Then she smiles at him and giggles. She turns and nearly skips away, back to the kitchen.

"See Daddy?" Jake says.

************************

Captain Shelan wakes in his cell. As he moves his chains rattle. "What the Frell?" He says. "That woman! What did she do to me?"

"Her tongue." Chiana speaks from the darkness. "It's like a Luxons. She got you with it."

"Chiana?" Shelan strains at his chains trying to get a glimpse of her.

"Yeah." She answers.

"What am I doing chained up? She says she was going to kill me! For what? And why are you in here?" Shelan asks, upset.

"You're story about leaving the Peacekeepers?" Chiana breathes. "It better be true. Or you're not leaving here."

*******************************

"What is this all about, Chiana?" Shelan examines his situation. "What are you involved in?"

"I can't tell you that. You shouldn't have come here." Chiana presses her palm against the bars that separate them. "How did you find me?"

"You think I wouldn't know where my Stealth Prowler was every Microt? You think I wouldn't find you?" He says angrily at the thought that she would steal it.

"Your life is in danger here." Chiana rests her head on the bars, near tears. "I can't help you."

"Why would you...?" He tries to ask, "Why would you kill me?" but can't finish the words. "What is your mission Chiana? What does it have to do with me?"

Chiana looks steely eyed at Shelan. "My own position is in question because I defended you!" She yells angrily.

"Thank you." Shelan looks at the cell floor and then up at her, drinking in her beauty.

Chiana turns and mutters to herself. "No one trusts me, not Mokan, not Crichton, not you."

Shelan hears part of it. "I'm sorry. I should have trusted you, Chiana." He says sincerely, asking forgiveness. "I was trying to prove myself to Crichton." Shelan hangs his head. "Prove to him my worth so he..."

"He told you to leave. Didn't he?"

***********************

Mokan sits at Comms, listening to her contact. "As to his loyalties, Captain Shelan is Absent Without Leave, after missing his last checkin." The voice says.

"But has he left the Peacekeepers for good? Or is he on yet another Special Ops mission for them?"

"Security has scanned Scorpius most recent communique's and transmissions. They discovered something. If Shelan does return he will be arrested and exicuted for espionage."

"What did they find?" Monan's interest is peaked.

"I haven't heard the Comms myself. I just know of the report."

"That isn't enough!" Mokan says angrily. "It could be a false report to cover his Special Ops mission." Mokan gets up and paces. "I have to have the specifics. Is the report based on fact?"

Mokan closes the Comms. "I should just kill him and find the truth later."
She reaches for the hilt of her Qualta and pulls it slowly from its sheith. She looks at its polished black blade in the lights of the Comms. "Frell! Why would Chiana care? One Peacekeeper more or less?"

***********************

Hep gets up and goes to Nova. "Well?" She asks.

"The Council is still out on Shelan's loyalties." He looks at Nova.

"It's a good thing you put that beacon on his prowler. It will save a lot of time when we have to go save him."

"I'm for leaving him if Mokan chooses to fragg him." Hep says.

Nova's eyes widen. "Let him die?"

"Well, yes!" Hep says, a little upset with Nova's question. "If he's a loyal Peacekeeper! He'd kill me and Crichton the Microt our backs are turned!"

**************************

A Tech moves silently through the corridors of the Peacekeeper's planatary base. The majority of the troops are at dinner. He enters Command and examines some wiring in Comms. He opens his repair kit and takes out a data pad.

The Tech inserts a data pad into a slot in the back of the Comms panel and enters commands. He adjusts the Comms panel then removes the data pad. He slips the data pad into his repair kit and leaves, lowering his head to the returning officers.

He passes through the corridors to his quarters. He places the data pad into a portable Comms unit and presses a switch.

Some time passes. The Tech takes a single transport. He breaks free of the planet's gravitational pull and lands aboard Mokan's ship.

He walks briskly into Mokan's Command, speaking as he hits the door. "Before we get to Shelan's defense. I have to show you something that will Frell with your mind!" The tech says excitedly, placing a recording disk into Mokan's Comms unit.

"What do you mean, Geyo?"

"Shhhh! Just listen to this!"

"How will you help us?"

"That's a Scarran's voice!" Mokan protests. What have you brought me, Geyo?"

"Be patient and listen!" Geyo answers.

"How many of your forces remain intact?"

"Who is that?" Mokan asks.

Geyo stops the record. "That is John Crichton talking to the leader of the Scarran forces on the planet."

"What! Crichton is with the Scarrans?" Mokan is more than confused.

Geyo starts the record.

"Nearly all. The Peacekeepers did not attack our barracks with stealth. You may have discovered their clumsy nature having lived with them." The Scarran answers.

"That will be a great advantage when we fight them. Can you be ready Pagar? Scorpius will be coming here." Crichton says.

"Scorpius!" Mokan shouts, jumping up from her seat.

"Just be quiet and listen Mokan! I told you it would Frell with your mind." Geyo reminds her.

"Here?" Pagar is surprised. "How?"

"To capture me." Crichton answers.

"Of course." Pagar hisses. "Yes, Crichton. We will be ready." He growls.

"Let me hear it again." Mokan asks. I think, that is Crichton plotting with a Scarran... against Scorpius?"

Geyo looks at Mokan's eyes and stares, smiling. "Of course. But this time, listen!"

*****************************

"Now this is a recording of Shelan talking with Crichton." Geyo starts the record.

"Yes, Shelan. Is he coming?" Crichton asks.

"I think you should know. Scorpius already knows of your challenge. Though, he is uncertain of the outcome. He hopes you are wounded, Sir." Shelan answers.

Mokan looks wide eyed at Shelan's use of the word 'Sir' in addressing Crichton.

"I suspect that he already knew of your location. He was just waiting for my report." Shelan continues.

"Thanks for all of your help." John says.

"Good luck in your fight." Shelan answers.

Moken paces. "But he may have known they were being recorded!" She shakes her head. "This isn't proof!"

Geyo shrugs. "Then maybe this will be. Scorpius was so pleased with the record he made with Captain Shelan's becon that he made one of his own."

"What are you talking about Geyo!" Monan is losing patience.

Geyo starts the record.

"Find Pagar!" Crichton yells.

"I had to be sure we wouldn't be disturbed..."

Mokan jumps back. "Scorpius!" She gasps. "You have a recording of Scorpius?" She yells, in shock.

Geyo has stopped the record. He waits for Mokan to finish, then starts the record again.

"I had to be sure we wouldn't be disturbed, John. I'm sure you understand. We wouldn't want any... interference now. Would we?" Scorpius says.

"I received a report that Captain Shelan left the battle. I took the precaution of placing a Voice Sensitive Broadcast Beacon aboard his vessel." Scorpius says confidently. "Everything said within an 8th of a metra was immediately transmitted to me. I knew of your location, your plans, your challenge; I even know of... well we'll discuss that later."

"I asked you for our freedom. Now I'll fight you for it." John challenges.

Mokan sits in shock at what she has just heard.

"Is that enough evidence? Mokan? Mokan?" Geyo asks her with no response.

***********************

Geyo looks at Mokan. He goes to the galley and takes a ras'lak break and returns to find Mokan pretty much as he has left her. He shrugs and continues.

Now this next conversation is with Shelan and Nova, a person associated with Hep.

"Scorpius is looking for him?" Nova asks.

"Yes." Shelan says. "He's made it his priority. After the Scarran barracks is destroyed, I am to find him. You have to find a place to hide him, and not tell me. Scorpius knows things. He may be able to pick it up from me, if I know."

Mokan gets very excited. "What the frell is happening? What happened down there? I have to hear it all! All of it!"

"Mokan! There are several arns of recordings!" Geyo stands. "I'll leave you to it then. I have just 5 arns before I have to return to duty. I'm sure you can decide. Decide for yourself."

"Just tell me one thing." Mokan looks at Geyo in wonderment. "What the frell is happening?"

"There was a war. We won." Geyo says and walks out.

**************************

It's late. John waits without a word. He Comms Hep and wakes him.

"What is it Crichton?" Hep is groggy.

"What am I paying you for Hep? Where are Chiana and Shelan?" John asks, half angry, half concerned.

"I'll let you know, Crichton." Hep says back over Comms.

John gets a chill. He knows they must have been caught by the Peacekeepers. "Ok, let me know the minute you find out anything! Crichton out."

John goes back to his bedroom. It is dark. Tonight was the night they would have held eachother, been together. Now she's gone. He has to spend the night alone. He thinks about their fight. Was Chiana right? She accused him of not trusting her. The words torture him at a time that he just wants to hold her.

************************

Mokan goes back to the recording of Scorpius, before Crichton has challenged him. First, she hears Hep's voice. It sounds like it is over Comms.

Hep: "Crichton! You were right! I'm under attack!"

Crichton: "Jake? Nova? Did they get them?"

Hep: "I don't know! I'm above the planet!" Percussion can be heard on Hep's hull as he speaks.

Crichton: "Find Pagar!"

Mokan listens to every word. She still can't believe...

Scorpius: "... I knew of your location, your plans, your challenge; I even know of... well we'll discuss that later."

Crichton: "I asked you for our freedom. Now I'll fight you for it."

There it is. The Scarran challenge. Crichton has just challenged Scorpius to a duel? She stops the recording and breathes, then begins again.

Scorpius: "I was puzzled, at first, to know you had this skill. Then I remembered the Scarran interrogation. Somehow you escaped." (Pause) "I commend you, learning how to use it. I remind you though, of the Royal planet. Its failsafe is still in place."

Mokan can't understand what this means, she continues to listen.

Crichton: "We'll see about that Scorpy."

Mokan can hear swords being drawn, then a long silence. Then she hears it. The unmistakable sound of swords clashing! The contest has begun!

Scorpius: "I am superior in strength, remember John." (Pause) "You cannot win this battle on strength."

Crichton: "You're right Scorpy."

Mokan hears a type of scraping like a sword struck an object.

Scorpius screams: "Aaaaa!"

Mokan smiles.

Scorpius: "This is an odd tactic, Crichton." (Pause) "You thought perhaps I would Comm my forces?"

Crichton: "Shut up!"

Scorpius: "What's the matter John. Have you lost your concentration?" (Pause) "You're not making a very good showing for yourself Commander Crichton."

Mokan hears another clash of swords. Then the sounds of the two men struggling. There is an odd sound, a noise, like sword against sand.

Scorpius: "Weakening already, John?" (Pause) "Too bad. I had been looking forward to fighting an equal!"

Then the rapid clash of swords.

"I'll give you equal!" Mokan shouts, her hand goes to her hilt.

Scorpius: "You are right Crichton! You are only a weak, frail, human! Such a disappointment."

Crichton: "I think he doth protest too much."

Scorpius: "You mean to say something to me John?"

Crichton: "I said you are the one who is weak and frail." (Pause) "Where is your mastery of the art?"

Scorpius growls. Then there is a terrifying clash of swords. Then the sound of metal against metal. Not one she can recognize.

Then Mokan hears an odd thing. Scorpius laughing! It is an evil laugh sending shivers through her soul. She hears what she thinks is a groan from Crichton.

Scorpius: "You didn't really expect me to fight in The Way of Honor? Did you John!"

There is a long break. As the silence lengthens Mokan trembles in fear. Then she hears something that only a swordsman or their prey has heard. The sound of a sword, piercing the hollow of the ribs. Her hand goes to her mouth. She screams and runs from Comms.

Screaming, crying, Mokan clings to the hatchway biting her fist. Scorpius' evil voice echoes in her chamber.

Scorpius: "How dare you attack me, Crichton! I could have destroyed you at any Microt!" (Pause) "I knew you had been injured Crichton!" (Pause) "I am pleased to see them so near to mine!"

Mokan sobs. She cannot bear it any further. She turns and slowly walks to shut off the record. Her hand trembles. She hears Crichton gasp. Then...

"Well hello you old Bastard! Good to see you again!" (Pause) "Time to finish my task!"

*****************************

Shelan consoles her. "Chiana. My story will check out. I promise. She'll let us go."

"It's not that." Chiana cries. "I miss John." She confides. "This would have been our first time... I searched for nearly 7 cycles. We had a fight. I have to get back! She can't do this to me... us."

*********************************

ChianaGray
12/26/00
Shelan's Defense
IC:

Chiana slipped out of the cage, swinging it closed as she glided over to Shelans and picked the lock.

She looked down at him, meeting his eyes as he stood and grabbed his shoulder.

"We have to hurry," she urged him. "It's much too frelling late, I've got to get back right now."

"What about this Mokan?" Shelan creased his brows at her as he followed her bounding away.

"I can deal with her later she's my contact. Would you come on!"

"To what, Crichton?"

"Yes," she glanced back at him as she made it to the docking bay and scrambled into Shelans prowler. "Just let me deal with Crichton. Last thing I need is you following me in."

"Chiana," he gazed up at her quietly. "What are you doing? What are you involved in exactly?"

"Maybe later," she gaped at him solemnly. "I can't think about them right now. I - I, have to get back to Crichton."

**********************************

Nhfearme
12/26/00
Shelan's Defense
IC:

Hep is awakened by a beeping. He gets up and runs to Comms. "Oops! She's moving again!" Hep reaches and plays back the last record on the crystal.

He hears Chiana's voice. "Just let me deal with Crichton. Last thing I need is you following me in."

Hep quickly Comms Setig's estate. "Setig? Crichton?"

"This is Setig."

"Tell Crichton that Chiana is headed back to the estate." Hep closes Comms. "Shelan will be along soon enough." He says to himself. "I wonder where he's bound for? Hmmm. He has to come here I suspect." Hep goes to Nova and wakes her.

"Nova. I need you to listen to the data crystal and find something, anything that can learn of Shelan's loyalties. If Mokan didn't kill him? I may have to."

**************************

Mokan is in tears. She holds the keys to release Chiana and Captain Shelan. As she leaves Command there is a perimeter allert. She looks at the display. Two Prowlers!

"Frell you Chiana!" She yells. "I wanted to say I'm sorry..." She puts down the keys.

*************************

It's only 100 Microts to Crichton. Chiana burns with desire to see him. she tries to think what to do. She has to make it up to him... let Shelan go if he says to. Appologize to him. She has to find another way to protect him, her John.

Is he still angry? Did he wait for her? Her worst fear is that he would break off the engagement over this! She is angry, she cries.

"Why does he have to be so stubborn!" She yells. "I don't care! Whatever he says, I'll do." She sets down the Prowler where Shelan left it and gets out. She wants to run to him, but afraid, she walks, slowly, unsure of what he will say.

John comes out and stands on the stairs, looking at her. She looks up. "John!" She breaths and runs to him, crying.

"I'm sorry Chiana." John says to her. "I should have trusted you. Please don't run away like that again. I was so worried." He wants to say. "That you wouldn't come back." But he can't say the words. He just holds her as she cries.

They walk into the mansion together, holding tightly to eachother.

John walks Chiana into the bedroom. They sit down on the edge of the bed. John can see Chiana by the moon's glow. He brushes the hair from her eyes and kisses her face.

"I'm sorry John, I was just trying to protect you..."

"Shhh, it's alright. I'm just happy to have you back." John holds her tightly and kisses her passionately.

Chiana kisses him back, wishing to give him all of the love she has held these past 6 cycles, dreaming, hoping to find him. She embraces him, sighing.

John's heart aches with loneliness; to have such love makes him feel alive again. There will be life again after... His mind is still not free of her memory. He hugs Chiana and kisses her with every emotion trying to force Aeryn out of his mind. He begins to cry.

"What is it?" Chiana asks.

John sighs and holds her. Chiana suddenly knows not to ask but holds him in the darkness hoping that her love will win him, free him from his memories.

**************************

ChianaGray
12/26/00
Love in Eden
IC:

Mokan grumbled to herself as she flicked a tendon off her shoulder and rounded her pulse pistol into its holster. She docked her transport in the abandond area she had been waiting ever since Chiana had given her the coordinance to the planet sometime ago.

She hadn't actualy seen or spoken to Chiana in almost an entire quarter cycle and now all of this was dropped into her lap!

She sighed to herself as she ploped into the c ock pit of her stealth fighter and shot out of her docking bay. She smirked as she watched her beakons she had placed in the prowlers, deciding to follow the one she was sure Shelan would be in. That was Chiana, run off, come back, run off. She still could feel that soreness when Chiana had once poped her in the jaw, very rare form. They could defunatley argue though and the missions were rougher than they were on each other. She wasn't too worried about the way Chiana had left. They depended on each other too greatly to let anything get in the way and Mokan was willing to die for her... without question? She smirked to herself again as she narrowed her eyes in a "yeah right." She had come from serving the luxan army to being a sebacean slave to running rampant with Chiana in the cause. She would be sure of Chianas saftey despite her. She had her own expertices as well and Shelan seemed like someone in bad need of an allie right about now. She had recruited others in far worse predicuments. Maybe? What was she up to? It wasn't like her to refuse a mission. .....Crichton.

She eased onto a landing pad next to Shelans ship. She kept her eyes steady on him as she watched him turn from walking away. His shoulders seemed to drop as she opend her hatch and slipped out.

"Does everybody have a frelling frequency on me!" He asked in exhasperation. "What are you going to do now, put me in an auroa chair?"

"Take it easy snotty," she narrowed her eyes on him with a wry smile as she adjusted the qualta to her back. "I'm interested in helping you about your - loyalties. I think you're story is shaky, but Chiana believes you. I'm interested."

"Interested." He crossed his arms as he looked into her eyes. It was as if Shelan could see straight into a persons soul. Mokan could see good reasons Chiana had choosen not to assasinate him just by looks but she met his eyes without expression, she was his as far as she was concirned. "Interested in what?"

"In what you're going to do now that you are in fallen graces with Scorpius," Mokan eyed him carefuly with a shift of her head. "You could try to win yourself back from the espionage charges, or you could try to keep up with Chiana."

"Then help me proove to Crichton I want to help. I've gotten this involved..." he let his words trail, shaking his head as a solemness filled his eyes. "With Scorpius, there is no return for me. The espionage is his way of saying I failed."

"I don't like you," Mokan stated as she raised her chin to him and stepped nearly an inch away from his chest to him as she rested her hand on her pulse pistol. "You sebaceans make up laws like the alien contamination so you can entice yourselves with your secrets. I would have tortured you if Chiana hadn't made such a frelling stink over you. You're lucky. I wouldn't push it."

Shelan stared, his quiet expression unmoving.

"I do not apologize for my race. I am a PeaceKeeper. If you think that means I represent everything they've ever done to you then I'm sorry you can't look past your own predjudice."

"It's not you, Shelan." She stated as her eyes flared wildly. "It's what you standed for, when you were a PeaceKeeper. I'll help you and see what you do now. One move I don't like, and you'll never survive your fallen graces."

He nodded gently. "I suppose I should thank you for not torturing me."

"Yeah," She narrowed her eyes with amusement as she walked past him. "But it wouldn't have been anything you haven't done to your prisoners I'm sure."

"Assuming," Shelan straightend as he walked with her and cut his eyes into her sharply. "That I have, I could well guess you are better at it."

"I would have done what I thought nessisary," she eyed him back.

**************************

Nhfearme
12/27/00
Love in Eden
IC:

"Chiana, I." John stutters. "I can't wait any longer. Let's get married now, tonight!"

Chiana gasps. "Uh, OK. But I think it's nearly morning."

"Morning then." John swallows. "We'll get married in the morning." He sighs and holds her.

John knows in his heart that this is the only way he can say goodbye to Aeryn. Her memory still burns in him. His love of her will not die! He hopes that his vows to Chiana will finally lay her to rest.

He holds Chiana tightly, suddenly afraid of his future with her. He holds hope of being able to think of her in his heart as he has held Aeryn all of these years. Goodbye; He would finally be able to say 'goodbye' to Aeryn. He cries into Chiana's hair, clinging to her.

Chiana knows of John's struggle. When Aeryn was alive, she never would have stood in their way. Now she has to! She needs to give John love again.

Her own pain of losing him down the vortex gave her own life purpose. Living up to his example as she had tried to when they shared a life on Moya. She has often longed to hold him, be with him.

This embrace they share is the fruit of her long search for him. She experiences both extreme joy and sorrow at his tears, his embrace. She begins to cry at his loss. The loss of Aeryn, whom he loved before Chiana even met him, loved him.

****************************

Chiana stands in the morning sunlight. The rays stream in, illuminating her beautiful royal blue and gold gown. Chiana is ready, waiting. She opens the slit in her gown and straps Jena to her thigh. They are at peace, but she will still be ready.

Only a few guests are expected: Pagar and his men. Hep and Nova are bringing Mokan and Captain Shelan.

Shelan is not a guest, but will be working security for the wedding. Crichton has tentatively agreed to have him, to prove his faith in Chiana.

Crichton has invited Setig to attend. Setig will be monitoring security from the great hall.

The servants have been given the morning off to attend or remain at home. Some of them line the great hall.

Luncheon to be served after the ceremony.

John dresses. He pulls on his new leather pants and buttons up the ancient style shirt. White, with loose sleeves. He tucks it in and pulls on his belt and boots. Setig enters with Crichton's sword.

"Crichton." Setig hands it to him.

"What is this for?" Crichton asks.

"It is a part of your attire. For now and for always." Setig answers.

"Come on John." Chiana prompts. "I think it would look great for the wedding. See? I'm wearing Jena."

"Yeah, great." John sounds unenthused, but he straps it on his hip anyway.

John and Chiana enter the great hall with Setig. Setig immediately returns to duties, watching Captain Shelan monitor the perimeter.

Mokan sits with Nova. Nova sits, holding Jake. Jake happily kicks his legs waiting for the ceremony to begin. Hep stands with Setig.

The Scarran guests are all seated accept for Pagar. He stands waiting for Crichton and Chiana to approach the altar.

Chiana and John stand before Pagar.

"I am Lord of my own vessel in my peoples army. I am therefore granted the power to join any two in marriage if they meet certain criteria. First they must desire it, then they must be compatible, and finally they must pledge their faith to eachother for life. First, tell me. Do you desire to be joined?"

"Yes." John and Chiana both say, smiling to eachother.

"Good." Pagar says. He then produces a bottle of nectar and holds it up to Crichton.

John looks at it, surprised. He had not equated the term 'compatible' in this way. He takes the bottle and looks at Chiana.

Chiana looks at him, afraid and swallows. She begins to shake her head no, then stops herself. John looks at her.

"No. We don't have to do this." John places his hand on her cheek. "It doesn't matter to me Chiana." He turns to hand the bottle back to Pagar.

Chiana grabs his arm. "No, John. I have to know." She says. "We have to know." She looks at his eyes, her head tilts as though trying to wish it so. "Please, John."

John looks at Pagar. "Can we still be married without this test?"

Pagar looks at him and lowers his head.

John looks back at Chiana and holds up the nectar. "Are you scared?"

"Yeah." She says, nearly in tears.

"Me too." John says. He slowly draws up a drop of nectar and places it on her tongue. He draws up a second drop to place on his.

Suddenly they hear pulse blasts. Captain Shelan is firing his Pulse Rifle at a small attack Craft over their space.

It lands. Shelan is aboard Hep's Single transport vehicle. He overtakes the landed craft then runs to intercept the Scarran trespasser.

"Stop! You are interrupting a private ceremony!"

"Of course!" The Scarran hisses. "This way I am certain Lord Crichton will be here to accept my challenge."

John and Chiana leave the altar and go to the steps to see.

Pagar shakes his head and mutters under his breath. "Peacekeeper."

Captain Shelan pulls his custom knife from its scabbard. "I have my orders that his wedding is not to be disturbed by the likes of you!"

"I have no animosity toward you Peacekeeper. Let me pass to challenge Lord Crichton or you shall die!"

Shelan's knife is too short to be of any threat to the Scarran. The Scarran swings his arm and knocks Shelan out of his path. Shelan runs along side of him and stabs him in the ribs. The Scarran yells and slashes Shelan with his claws. Shelan falls.

John stands watching the conflict. "Setig." He says and walks out into the courtyard to take the challenge.

"John, be careful." Chiana breathes to him.

Setig walks to Shelan and lifts him from the ground, bringing him into the mansion.

Crichton faces the Scarran.

***************************************

Mokan watches with great interest to see the great swordsman who challenged Scorpius.

"Don't make me draw my sword on my wedding day!" John says simply, facing his adversary.

"This is the third time I have seen Lord Crichton grant leniency to a challenger." Setig remarks to Hep.

"I would just kill him!" Hep says.

"This is why I still live." Setig growls at Hep.

Chiana holds her breath and begins to descend the stairs.

The Scarran raises his voice to be heard by all. "I challenge you Lord Crichton for Setig, your properties and your family!"

Chiana feels her hand go to Jena's hilt.

"No one will own my family. We will remain free." Crichton answers.

The Scarran swings his arm, hitting Crichton and knocking him into the flowerbeds.

Pagar walks to Setig. "I know this one. Kalan already holds property near here. He is the one who killed my second."

"Kalan will not be so lucky with Crichton." Setig answers him.

John gets up. He draws his sword and faces Kalan. "Leave here or die."

Kalan raises his hand to fire a heat pulse at John. John tuck and rolls, coming up and slashing across Kalan's chest. Kalan yowls and grips the wound.

Kalan slashes at Crichton with his claws then hits him with the back of his hand, throwing Crichton to the ground.

"I was told of your great fighting skill Crichton. I see now that it is a lie!" Kalan says with disdain.

Chiana can see blood on Crichton's blouse. She gasps. Setig takes a step forward but knows he cannot interfere.

Kalan steps toward Crichton, as he lies fallen. Suddenly there is a shriek!

Chiana flies through the air and lands Jena firmly in Kalan's back. Kalan struggles to remove the dagger but is helpless against it.

Kalan turns quickly, throwing Chiana off his shoulders to the ground. "This one will die Crichton!" Kalan growls and steps toward her.

"No! Leave her alone!" John yells.

"You think you can stop me, Lord Crichton?" Kalan reaches to fire a heat pulse at Chiana.

Crichton gets up and runs. He jumps and slashes Kalan's neck, severing his head. Kalan's body falls with a thump on the soft earth. Jena is still in his back.

John walks over to Chiana and lifts her. He holds her tightly. "Why?"

"I saw you were wounded. I couldn't lose you John." She cries on his shoulder.

John opens his torn shirt and shows her. "It must be Shelan's blood. I'm not wounded."

John picks Chiana up and carries her to the house. He sets her up on her feet. He places his hand on her cheek and looks into her eyes. "I'll change my shirt. Wait for me?"

Chiana places her hand on his and shakes her head. "Uh, huh." She sits down and waits by the door.

Setig walks up beside her and holds Jena out to her, offering the hilt.

"Thank you Setig." Chiana takes the dagger and snaps it into its scabbard. She gets up and goes to Shelan.

Captain Shelan lies with his eyes closed in a room just off the great hall.

Chiana kneels at his bedside. "Thank you." She says. She takes his hand, Crying.

Shelan wakes. "For you Chiana. I would do anything for you." He says. "I love you." He sighs and closes his eyes.

Chiana is taken aback. Of all things to say on her wedding day!

"The drug I gave him is talking." Setig tells her and offers his hand to help her up.

Setig walks Chiana to the altar. Crichton waits for her wearing his new leather jacket. John still wears his sword at his side.