From: Donna Honeycutt Date: Fri, 03 Sep 1999 13:32:36 -0400 Subject: New Story - After the Future III Source: direct Title - After the Future III Author - Donna Email address - donnah@pop.uky.edu URL - www.geocities.com/Area51/Quadrant/4571/ Rating - G Category - Relationship Spoilers - None Keywords - Skinner/other Summary - 3rd in what seems to be a growing story about after the colonization Feedback - Please Archive - Anywhere, just please keep my name Disclaimer - Mulder, Scully, the Lone Gunman and Skinner all belong to Chris, 10-13 and Fox - Bless them for it!! No infringement intended. After the Future - III Mulder and Skinner were bent over the desk, going over inventory when Kevin tapped on the door. He stuck his head in, "Mulder, he's back." Mulder quickly laid down the paper in his hand and headed for the door. He glanced out and then pulled Kevin close to him. "Warn Scully. Make sure whatever she's wearing hides her." Kevin nodded and left, pulling the door shut behind him. "Who's back, Mulder?" Mulder sighed, then looked at him. "Krycek." "Krycek? What the hell is that weasel doing still alive? He only has one arm - why wasn't he killed by the virus?" "The vaccine. He comes around, give us information. We check on what we can. He's usually accurate." "I'd rather kill him than listen to him." "Me too, but sometimes he's useful. Ready?" At Skinner's nod Mulder opened the door. "Shouldn't keep a good client like me waiting Mulder." Krycek wandered in and stopped short when he spotted Skinner. "I thought this was a restricted community." "Only where you're concerned, Krycek. I see some information isn't available to you. So, what brings you to town?" "I have some news for Scully. She left you yet?" Mulder ignored the taunt. "Whatever you have to tell Scully you can tell me." "No. I think she'd appreciate this more than you would." "Appreciate what, Alex?" They all turned to see Scully at the door. Mulder noted her large lab coat hiding her figure and relaxed slightly. Scully entered the room and came to stand slightly behind Mulder. Skinner moved a step closer to both of them. "Well, aren't we a protective little threesome. He give you much time alone with her, Walt?" Skinner's face darkened, but he kept his silence. "Come on, Krycek." Mulder spoke now that Scully was near him, "If you really have news, tell us." "Well, it seems I've located one Maggie Scully." "Mom?" Scully's hand clutched at Mulder's arm. "Where?" "Ohio. She's living with your brother Charlie, his wife Mary and the two boys." "They're all alive?" "Last word I got they were. They're not living as nice as this. You run a good place here Mulder, but they've made it so far. "Where in Ohio?" Scully's voice shook slightly, Mulder and Skinner exchanged glances. "You got a map? I'll show you." "Kevin!" Mulder called into the other room. "Right here Boss." Kevin entered unfolding a map and laid it on the desk. Mulder gave him a tight smile. Someday he'd come up with a request Kevin couldn't fill. He hoped it was no time soon. "Here, in eastern Ohio. A little place called Devola. They had a pretty bad winter, but your family did okay." "Why should we believe you?" Mulder's face was like stone. "Because it's for Dana." Krycek fairly purred her name, knowing the effect that would have on Mulder. "I suppose you have other news for us as well." Don't let him get to you Mulder, it's his greatest pleasure. "Sure, but I thought that bit would be the most impressive." "If it's true it is. But Scully has work to do. Kevin, would you take Scully back to the clinic? Skinner and I will meet with Krycek." He held her arm and walked her out the door. She understood and waited until they were outside before pulling loose from his grasp. "Mulder. . . " "I know, Scully. Let Skinner and I talk to him. You can't listen objectively, I'm not sure I can, that's why I want Skinner there. Let me get the information and I swear I will tell you everything he says." "You expect me to work?" "No, but I don't want you here. I don't want him to see any more of you than we can help. He brings us information and I'm just as sure he takes it away. He didn't know Skinner was here. That's enough information for him to have to pass along. I don't want him to know about this." He put his hand on her stomach and she placed her own hand on top of his. "You're right. Don't keep me waiting too long." "Don't I always hurry home to you?" He pulled her to him, feeling the swell of her belly against his, and kissed her. "Go on now. And don't worry!" "Right. Sure." She turned back toward the clinic. Kevin fell in beside her. "I really can get back there on my own." "Mulder asked me to walk you back." "You and I need to have a long talk sometime Kevin." She sighed and allowed the young man to accompany her to her office. The other information paled in comparison and Mulder wasn't sure he had paid close enough attention, but trusted Skinner to pick up the slack. Now that the tension was relieved between them regarding Scully, they worked well together. Mulder had been surprised that Skinner took the role of second in command so easily, but was more relieved than anything else to have someone like him at his side. Scully wasn't in the main room when he arrived home, so he headed for the bedroom. He found her there packing. He had expected it, but still. . . "Going somewhere?" "I have to find her." "Gonna take the baby with you?" "Planning to." She looked up at him, her chin out in that defiant attitude. "Not going to happen, Scully." "Mulder, I have to do this." "No way. You're not going a third of the way across the continent now. You are in no shape to walk a thousand miles." "Mulder, I want my mother here when the baby comes." "I know that Honey. I do too. That's why I'm planning to go get her." "No!" "What?" That caught him off guard. It had seemed the perfect solution to him. "Not without me." "You can't. You aren't." He stated it matter of factly, but this was not something he would back down from. She was not going anywhere if he had to lock her up for the remaining time until the baby was born. "Mulder, I don't want to be separated from you. Not now. What if the baby comes early? Neither you nor my mother would be here. I'd rather have the baby on the road, with you." He couldn't repress that shudder. "No." He took her into his arms. "What if. . . what if we get someone else to go for us?" He wiped the tear that had escaped from her cheek. "Who would do that?" "Skinner. Scully, he'd do this for you. Hell, there's not much he wouldn't do for you." "You're not. . . " "No, I'm not. I understand you and Skinner. Let me talk to him tomorrow. Right now I'm going to put this stuff away. " He sat her on the bed, and took an armful of the camping equipment up to the loft. She had no appetite, but he made sure she ate a little. While he was cleaning up they heard the knock on the door. They exchanged glances, she wasn't wearing her lab coat now, and on her small frame there was no doubt what was occurring within her body. "Who is it?" Mulder called as he headed toward the door. "Walter and I'm alone." Scully smiled and Mulder relaxed, speeding up his steps to reach the door. "Hi. Come on in. Want some coffee?" "Thanks, no." He settled on the sofa. "I assume, since we're all fairly bright people, we've all reached the same conclusion." "About?" Mulder took the chair as Scully settled beside Skinner. "My heading to Ohio to get Mrs. Scully." Scully looked at Mulder. He grinned back at her. "What?" Skinner watched that familiar silent exchange between them. "We had reached that conclusion. I was going to approach you tomorrow." "Well consider me approached. I'm thinking three of us need to go. I'm estimating 700 miles, give or take. Depends on the roads. We can move fast heading out. It could take awhile coming back with two women and two children. I'll need people in good shape, able to travel." "Yeah. I hadn't thought that far." "I want one of the three to be Krycek." "Krycek! Why?" That startled both of them. "He's in good shape, he's used to traveling, he knows where she is unless he's lying, and best of all, it would keep him from reporting back to whomever about how things are here." "I do like that. But will you be safe traveling with him?" "I can handle myself Mulder. Don't worry about that. You know the people here better than I do, who should be the third?" Mulder thought a moment. "Kevin immediately comes to mind." "No, he won't go." Mulder looked over at her, but before he could speak, Skinner agreed. "True, who else?" "Wait a minute. What do you mean he won't go?" "Mulder, he'd never leave your back. If you were going, we couldn't keep him here. He works for you and no one else. Surely you know this." "No, I don't." "Hey, don't go getting uncomfortable around him. It's not like that. He has decided he owes his life to you. I don't know why. I don't know his story. Because I'm your wife, I fall within his sphere of protection. It's a small circle." Mulder looked at her, not quite sure she was serious. "She's right, Mulder. I haven't been here that long and I know it. No one gets to you though him. So, who else?" Mulder decided to let it drop for now, and began mentally reviewing possible candidates. "What about Todd?" Scully asked. "Who?" Skinner turned to her. "Todd Cooke. He's young, only 24, 25. He's in good shape physically and he's very restless. A little place like this isn't enough for him now. He doesn't realize how good he's got it. Maybe seeing the world, seeing how it is in other communities, would show him that." "Well, we can talk to him. He might be up for it." Mulder concurred. "Have you thought about how long this might take?" She allowed the worry to creep into her voice. "Don't worry, Dana. I know we're on a deadline." He put his hand on her arm, and she gave him a sad smile. "I'm gonna head home to make some lists. I don't think we can leave until day after tomorrow. Can we talk to Todd first thing?" "Yeah, I'll grab him on the way in tomorrow." "Okay, I'm out of here. Try to sleep Dana. We'll make this work." He squeezed her shoulder and rose. Mulder let him out and turned back to her. "See?" "I'm surrounded by the best people in the world." She held her hand out to him and he pulled her to her feet. Now it was a joke, soon it wouldn't be. Skinner needed to get moving. She was lying down when he joined her later that evening. He stopped just inside the door to watch her. Her hand was caressing her belly and her attention was very far away. "Hey Beautiful," he whispered, "Where'd you go?" She smiled up at him, "He moved." "The baby? Are you kidding?" He moved toward her now, wanting, needing to touch her. "It's not scientific, but according to my grandmother, I'm half way there. It's silly I know, I am a doctor, but it's the first thing I thought." "Some of those old wives knew what they were talking about." His hand had joined hers now. "I want my mother." "Don't worry, Scully. Skinner won't let us down. He'll get your mother here safely and on time." He sounded so confident, so sure, that she relaxed against him and before he realized it was asleep in his arms. ***** Todd listened carefully to the outline of their plan the next morning, nodding occasionally. Finally, when they were finished, "I'm in. Nothing against this place, but I've never lived in a small town. I need the excitement, the change. We need to hurry, right?" "Very right. Scully wants her mother here when the baby comes. And Krycek doesn't know about the baby. We want to keep it that way." "No problem, he doesn't talk to me anyway. Tomorrow morning?" "At first light. Here's a list of what I thought we'd need. Look it over, see what you have and we'll find the rest. It'll be a lot of camping and biking. You sure you're up for it?" "I better be. I want to do this, Mulder." Mulder glanced over at Skinner, who nodded. "Then go get ready. We haven't mentioned to Krycek that he's also invited to this party, so keep it quiet. He's been volunteered and he may not be too happy. The next morning showed exactly how unhappy the man was. Mulder and Scully were there to see them off; Scully carefully covered in the ever-present lab coat. She approached Todd and kissed his cheek. "I really appreciate what you're doing for us." He nodded, blushing that she was so appreciative. "Remember, Krycek doesn't know about. . . " "I won't forget. We'll be back in plenty of time, I won't let these old guys slow me down." She grinned up at him and he felt himself falling in love with her. He'd make damn sure they were back in time. Avoiding Alex and keeping Mulder between them, she went to Skinner. "You be very careful. I want you back here and soon, no matter what you find." "Think I could stay away from you?" He grinned, then with a devilish look in his eye, pulled her against him. He felt the swell of her body against his and looked up at Mulder. Without missing a beat he pulled her closer and kissed her, like he hadn't kissed in woman in years. When the kiss ended he had to keep his arms around her to steady her. He looked over at Mulder who are watching, mouth open, not sure what to do and said simply, "Thanks." Scully couldn't help it, she burst out laughing. Mulder's eyes narrowed but a small smile did begin to play around his lips. He reached over and pulled his wife into his own arms. "I'm going to miss you a lot less than I thought I would." Was his only remark to Skinner, whose grin grew even broader. He saw that Scully was moving to the back of the group here to see them off and away from Krycek, then he approached Skinner, who had already mounted his bike. He leaned in to whisper, "Not to put any more pressure on you, but she felt the baby move the other night. According to old wives' tales, she's half way since it's her first child." Skinner nodded but made no comment. He already knew his deadlines and what would have to be done to meet them. "And for the record, you pull a stunt like that again and my child's 'Uncle Walt' will be bouncing him on his knee from a wheelchair." Mulder gave him a full toothed grin, very feral, and patted him on the back. Skinner grinned, nodded again and pushed off. Daylight was wasting, and they had a lot of miles to cover. Krycek was even less happy as the day wore on. Skinner kept them at a brisk pace, pausing briefly for breaks and lunch. With both Skinner and Todd armed and on their toes, he knew that for today anyway he was stuck. When they finally stopped for the evening, Skinner estimated that they had traveled over 70 miles. He knew he couldn't expect that every day, but even at that pace it would take ten days to get there. Twice that to return baring all accidents. They made camp and relaxed over a hot meal. "Be sure and stretch before you turn in Todd. Believe me, you'll appreciate it in the morning. And take these." He handed Todd two white pills. "What?" Todd looked up at him; he still didn't know this man that well. "Aspirin. I brought plenty, I hope." Todd grinned and tossed them back. Krycek took his with no comment. He'd need a little rest before he left them too. Alex was less than prepared when Skinner slapped the handcuff over his ankle. "What the hell!" He started to rise and realized that Todd was holding a gun on him. "We don't want to be deprived of your company in the morning, Alex. Relax." Skinner secured the other end of the cuffs to an extra tent spike, which had been secured earlier. "Remember, you get the same food and equipment we have, except for the weapons. You'll pull your share of KP too. We can get along fine and make this trip enjoyable. After we have the Scully's and are close to home, we'll part ways. Understand?" "You really think I'm going all the way to Ohio with you, just to bring Dana's family back?" "Yep." Skinner made himself comfortable on his sleeping bag. "You want her don't you? You're just waiting for something to happen to Mulder, aren't you?" "Dana's special to me, but she's Mulder's wife and has been for years, with or without the ceremony. You know that as well as I do. My understanding is you didn't make a move yourself because you knew you wouldn't make it out the door if you tried." "That's because she's never had the chance to compare." Skinner laughed out loud at that, causing a dark stain to permeate Krycek's face. "You go on telling yourself that, Alex." Todd had been watching this interplay with no comment. He hadn't realized how far back the relationship between these two went and he was anxious to learn more, but right now he was tired. He already knew those aspirin were going to be a god- send tomorrow. "You guys argue about this in the morning. I need some sleep." "Good idea. You need anything Krycek?" Skinner looked over at him. Krycek turned his back to them and settled into his own sleeping bag, his shackled leg out. The next morning came quickly and they all groaned upon rising from their bags. Aspirin was distributed with morning coffee and as soon as camp was broken, they headed west. The roads they had encountered so far were in good shape and not well traveled. Consumer goods were no longer hauled by truck, though Skinner hadn't been able to ascertain how goods were delivered now. When traveling with the Gunmen, he'd heard plenty of theories and though he was loath to admit it, had enjoyed some of them immensely. Personal cars weren't a problem either, with the gas rationing, so the occasional biker they passed near towns were it for other commuters. Information was exchanged at these times and travel conditions explored, though Skinner was careful about revealing from where they had come. Ten days had been too optimistic an estimate. The mountains slowed them down more than Skinner had guessed. No one was maintaining these roads and going off road, carrying the bikes, was wearing. Todd knew when he returned home that he'd never be so anxious to leave again. Krycek continued to simmer and obstructed them when possible out of spite, making sure his one good arm did a lot less than his part of the work. On more than one occasion Todd brought up the idea of cutting him loose. Skinner was beginning to agree with him, but wanted to wait until they were across the mountains. Might as well make it as hard on him as possible and Todd did agree with that. ***** It took a full 42 days before they reached their destination. Skinner and Todd secured Krycek and moved forward to check out what they could. "It's too late to approach them tonight. I want to wait for full daylight so they can see me and not shoot on sight. You'll stay here with Krycek and keep the gag in his mouth. I want to look as non-threatening as possible. They post a guard so they're already nervous. And he looks hungry." "Yeah, a lot of the people we've passed lately do." "Beginning to think it wasn't so bad at home?" "Yeah," Todd grinned, "I guess quiet is better than it's cracked up to be. I'm ready to be heading the other way." "Soon I hope. I don't know what to expect traveling on the way back. They may not be in great shape, like you've noticed. And we know the conditions in the mountains." Todd grimaced. "Well, that's why we pushed so hard to get here with plenty of time to spare, right?" Skinner nodded; they had pushed to get here. Skinner was ever mindful of their deadline and could only hope that everything was going okay at home. He'd never missed his cell phone so much. Mulder must be losing his mind, not having any information about their progress on top of worrying about Scully. He waited until full light the next morning, and after helping Todd secure Krycek headed toward the main entrance of the community. He approached from the main road, making no attempt at stealth, his arms away from his side, trying to look as non-threatening as his ex-marine body could. "Hello! May I approach?" He watched both rifles being leveled toward him. The older gentleman rose, "Might as well save yourself the steps, mister. We're not taking anyone else in." "I understand, I'm not looking to stay. I'm searching for family to take home with me and I heard they might be here." He didn't attempt to move closer, these men weren't military and a lot more nervous than he was. "Who you lookin' for?" "Margaret Scully. I heard she was here with her son Charles and his family." No poker faces here, they knew the name. Skinner breathed a sigh of relief. He still didn't know their condition, but Krycek had the right location. "Charles be able to confirm that?" "No sir. I've never met Charles. I knew Maggie in Washington, DC. I'm here as a favor to her daughter." The men had a short conference and finally spoke to him again. "Put your hands on your head, sir and come up the middle there like you're doin'." "Yes sir." Skinner laced his fingers on top of his head and walked slowly toward the gate. When he stopped, still well back from the men he asked, "Can you tell me if they're okay?" "Yeah, probably thinner than you remember. You wanna take 'em all with you?" "Yes sir." The older man nodded slightly and moved to open the gate. "Keep your hands where they are and come on in. Jake, you keep an extra eye peeled, I'll take him in and be right back." He turned back to Skinner. "I don't suppose you're alone." "No sir, I have two traveling companions back that way." He pointed with his elbow. "It's not good to travel alone right now. But I came up here alone, they're back at the camp. They just want us to get the Scully's and go. We don't want any trouble." "We'll have to see about that. Come on." He had lowered his rifle though 'Jake' still had Skinner in his sights. He fell in behind Skinner and directed him toward a larger white house not far down the road. "You got a name?" "Walter Skinner, and you?" "I'm John. Where you come from?" "South of here, down in Tennessee." That's what he had instructed Todd to say, and they didn't want anyone talking to Alex. All activity at the house stopped when John knocked on the door, not attempting to enter. A large man came to the door, a pistol in his hand. "Sam, this gentleman here is looking for the Scully family. Wants to take 'em home with him." Sam looked Skinner up and down carefully. "You frisked him?" "Nope, but he's been careful not to make any moves." "Frisk him now." Sam aimed at him and John put his rifle down out of reach. John was thorough but Walter took it stoically. "He's clean." "Smart man." "I'm not here to cause any trouble. I just want Maggie and her family to come home with me, if they're agreeable to it." "If they aren't?" Sam still hadn't lowered his weapon. "Tell Maggie it's Walter Skinner here for her. Let them make the decision." Sam nodded, an answer he could live with. He motioned for Water to take a seat and the entire atmosphere of the room warmed. People moved from their frozen positions and went back to what they were doing. Sam sent a runner out the back door and waited out of Walter's sight. When Maggie entered the house Sam met her in the kitchen. Maggie didn't bother to smile at the man; "You sent for me?" "There's someone here from outside, says he's come to get you and your family. I wanted to see if you recognized him." "A man has come for us? What's his name?" "See if you recognize him first." Maggie managed to hide her annoyance and reluctantly allowed the man to take her arm and lead her to the front of the house. Walter stood as he heard them approach and waited. When Maggie spotted him she stopped dead still, then she broke out with the biggest smile he had ever seen. "Walter!" She shook loose from Sam's hand and started across the room, Walter met her half way and when her arms went around him, he reciprocated, actually picking her up and twirling her around. "I was hoping you'd remember me, but. . . " He whispered in her ear. "You're someone from home. Do you know where Dana is?" "That's where I've come from. She wants me to bring you to her, and her brother and his family." Now she was wiping tears of joy away and nodding, not letting go of his arm. "Is that recognition enough?" Walter finally looked back at Sam who was watching from the doorway. Walter couldn't read the expression, but it didn't look that happy. Sam turned abruptly and left the room. "Is everything okay?" "Later. Tell me everything about Dana. Is Fox with her?" Walter smiled, "Oh yes." "Why didn't she come with you? Is she really okay?" "She's fine, but she's the only one of her profession, " he glanced up to see who might be listening. "So she couldn't just leave." Maggie nodded, realizing his caution. Walter took the opportunity to really look at her. She'd lost weight since the last time he'd seen her, but she looked wonderful and truly delighted to see him. "You need to meet my son and his family. Come on." "Is it okay for me to be wandering around?" "You're with me." She tucked her arm into his and led him out the front door. They turned to the right and headed down the street. Something made him turn and look back at the house. Sam was standing at the door watching them. Maggie tugged at his arm and they continued on. A young woman, late teens or early twenties was waiting for them. When she spotted Maggie, she ran out to the street and threw herself into Maggie's arms. "It's okay Anne. I'm fine." The young woman eyed Walter suspiciously. "He's a good friend of mine. Is Mary here?" The woman nodded, tightening her grip on Maggie's arm. Maggie patted her hand and moved toward the door. Walter followed, making sure he kept his distance from the nervous woman. "Mom? Is everything okay?" A woman around Scully's age hurried into the room. "Did Sam. . . " "No. Mary, this is Walter Skinner. He's come from Dana and Fox and wants to take us to them. It's a chance to get out of here." Walter took all of this in, especially the look of hope that was growing on Mary's face. He didn't know what was going on, but he was becoming even more glad they had arrived when they had. "Charlie and the boys are still in the fields." "Why don't we start getting some things together." Mary's smile grew even bigger. She nodded and headed back the way she had come. Walter looked back at Maggie to find her comforting Anne. "I wouldn't leave you here. Just relax Honey." She turned toward Walter. "We wouldn't have to leave Anne, would we?" "I think we can work that out." It didn't earn him a smile, but it did relieve some of the tenseness around her eyes. The women retreated to the rear of the house to begin preparations to leave. Walter took the opportunity to take a hot shower for the first time in ages, followed by a close shave. He was feeling human again by the time Charlie and his sons returned to the house. Charlie stopped just inside the door, throwing his arm in front of the boys to prevent them passing him. "Where's my wife?" Walter extended his arms from his sides. "In your bedroom. I'm Walter Skinner." Charlie's eyes widened in obvious recognition of the name. "What are you doing here?" "Dana sent me to get you and take you to where she's living." "Is Mulder with her?" "Yes." Always the first question, he noticed. "Good. When can we leave?" "Tomorrow morning as far as I'm concerned." "Sam's given permission?" Charlie looked surprised. "I wasn't aware we needed it." Walter glanced toward the back of the house. "Three able-bodied workers, Mary's capable of having more children. We're assets and Sam wants - " "Charlie, I didn't hear you come in." Maggie entered the kitchen. "I see you've met Walter." "Yeah, we were discussing his plans. I was asking about Sam." Maggie ignored that, "Waiter's agreed to take Anne with us as well." "Mom. . . " "Why don't you go help Mary? Let me talk to Walter a little." "I think you better." Charlie herded the boys past them out of sight. "I think he's right, Maggie. What does Sam have to do with you leaving?" Maggie gestured him into a seat at the table and sat facing him. "Sam runs this community. He's set himself up as mayor, but he likes to think of himself as a dictator. Walter, I was married to a man in a position of command, William knew how to lead people, motivate people. Sam only knows intimidation. The guards aren't there so much to keep people out as to keep us in. He's using Charlie and the boys to help in the fields, I understand that, but Mary and Anne are being kept for, if you'll excuse the expression, breeding purposes." Walter waited as she collected her thoughts, then reached out and took her hand. "Tell me the rest, Maggie." She studied his hand over hers for a moment. "For whatever reason, he's taken a fancy to me. He wants me to marry him and move into the big house instead of here with my family. I don't know why, I can't give him children. . . " Her voice trailed off. "I can understand why." Maggie looked up at him startled, then quickly away, blushing at his regard. She finally faced him again, "If only high school had been like this." She managed to smile. "Well, at least I understand why he was so angry when I greeted you." Her smile faded, "Angry? Was he?" "Well he wasn't happy." "I'm sorry. I should have shown more restraint. I may have caused extra problems." "Restraint I'm used to. That kind of greeting was wonderful." He cleared his throat and squeezed her hand, then removed his hand from hers as though embarrassed. He was pretty sure his face had reddened and she was definitely blushing. What was going on with him? They moved back from each other simultaneously. Well, whatever it was, she was aware of it too. Skinner cleared his throat. "I think Charlie and I need to have a conversation with Sam. There might have to be negotiations." Maggie nodded. "Keep packing, but don't worry about equipment. Clothes, traveling food and bikes. Anne can ride can't she?" "I'm sure she can. She's okay when she trusts you. Before she came here, well, she didn't have an easy time." Skinner nodded that was no longer rare. "I need to get back to Mary. Come on." Skinner followed her down the hall. Charlie had checked on the packing and given Mary and Anne directions. He had a good grasp of what was ahead of them and Skinner felt a sense of relief. "Charlie, Walter wants to have a conversation with Sam and wants you there." "Good idea. Now?" "No time like the present." ***** "Charles, I understand your wish to be with your sister, but we're coming up on harvest soon and we're going to need every hand we've got." "Sam, that's weeks away, and then the weather could change. We'll be leaving a lot more behind than we're taking - " "How can you say that? Women, son, women are the most valuable resource we humans have right now. If we're going to continue as a race women are the key." "Excuse me," Skinner sat forward in his chair, "are you planning to breed these women?" "That's a crude way to put it Mr. Skinner. We want humanity to survive; the ones that have so far seem to have some immunity. If these survivors mate a stronger race could be the outcome, giving us a better chance to take back control of the planet." "You're talking eugenics here. And I can state as fact that a stronger human body is not going to win any war you might think we're waging. They have technology that's so far advanced it appears to be magic to us. Their very bodies are toxic to ours. We're here on sufferance at present. I'm not even sure negotiations are still on going to give us a reservation to live on. There is nothing to keep these creatures from walking in here today and taking everything you hold dear away from you, except that we've kept our place. Until they do, those women and this man and his sons are free to walk away. I'm here to help them do it. All we'll take is clothing, bikes and enough food for a few days. You don't have compelling enough reasons to keep this family apart." Sam sat for a moment. This man in front of him had an aura of command about him unlike anyone else in town. This was the first real threat to Sam's authority since he'd started leading this community. Skinner was younger and therefore even more of a threat. He wanted him gone. Was he willing to give up the others to get rid of him? "I need to sleep on this gentlemen. We can talk again in the morning." "We'll want your answer at that time." Skinner rose and Sam felt physically less than him for a moment. He wouldn't be able to win a fight with this one. "Charles, I'd like to talk to your mother before I turn in." "Why Sam?" Charlie had kept quiet during their conversation. He knew that Skinner understood Sam better than he did. "To discuss the pros and cons of the situation. You don't have to worry Charles. Maggie will be safe with me." "I'm sure that's true Sam," Skinner spoke, "but I'll bring her here and wait for her. Okay?" Not okay, but Sam couldn't push it. He wanted to talk to Maggie, but he didn't want to tear the town he'd built down completely. "Fine. I'll see you in a few minutes." Skinner nodded. Charlie followed suit and they left the room. Neither spoke until they were outside. "Walter, did you mean what you said in there about the aliens?" "We can't talk here, but there's a lot Mulder and I need to tell you when we get home." Charlie nodded, willing to let this man take command, actually grateful he was here to do it. Charlie had never aspired to command like his father or Bill. Having it thrust upon him had probably done him a world of good, but a break now would be very welcome. Skinner escorted Maggie back a few minutes later. He settled himself on the porch to wait. In a surprisingly short time Sam was back on the porch, Maggie behind him. "Mr. Skinner, I would like for you to tell me the nature of your relationship with this woman." Skinner saw that Maggie wanted to communicate with him but the opportunity wasn't there. "I would never embarrass Maggie or demean our relationship by discussing it with you, Sir." He could see Maggie relax and some of the bravado leave Sam at those words. Sam turned to Maggie, "So you refuse my bed but give yourself to this man? I want you out of here, you and your family. I will not have my authority undermined this way. Everything that was in the house is part of the community and you are forbidden to take it. What you brought with you can be taken." "We'll leave most of the food that Mary and I have canned and preserved as payment for what we do take. We will not be indebted to you." Sam nodded curtly and turned back into the house. Skinner took Maggie's arm and led her from the porch. After a few steps he leaned over her, "May I ask what that was about?" "He didn't want me to leave. I had to tell him that. . . " She looked down, "that we had been lovers and that was the real reason you'd come looking for us. Fortunately my little display when I saw you helped the story along. I'm sorry Walter. I didn't mean to put you in such an awkward position, but -" "You didn't embarrass me Maggie. I rather enjoy the role you cast me in." Now she was blushing, he should shut up. "Come on, he may be watching us." He tightened his grip on her and felt her arm go around him in response. This could be an interesting trip home. Skinner sent everyone to bed finally. What hadn't been packed could be stuffed somewhere in the morning. He had no intentions of pushing them seventy miles on their first day, but he did want to be out of easy reach of this community as soon as possible. For that, everyone needed some sleep. No one had to be roused when the sun rose. They were all heavily laden with supplies, but that wouldn't last long. Besides, he knew Todd and Krycek would be anxious for some fresh food. Sam was waiting at the entrance Skinner had used when he had arrived. Had it only been yesterday? He could feel the entire company tense at the sight of him, even the children. He wanted to hear more when they were away from here. As Skinner was the obvious leader of the group Sam approached him. "Do you want to examine our packs?" Skinner offered. "No Sir. In spite of everything I don't think that Maggie would allow anyone to cheat this community of its rightful wares." His eyes went to Maggie and he stepped toward her. "I will miss you Maggie. We could have done great things for this town and these people. I hope you never regret your decision to leave." "Thank you. I'm sure being with my loved ones again will be worth the trip." Skinner, less trusting, wondered if a threat had just been issued and upped his estimation of how far they would need to have traveled by nightfall. At least the mountains were several days away at their best traveling speed. He stepped toward Sam and extended his hand. "I appreciate your help with these arrangements. I know Maggie's daughter will be delighted to have her family reunited." He forced Sam to look him in the eye and shook his hand firmly. Okay, now whatever happened Sam would have to live with the fact that he had made a deal in public, in front of a lot of witnesses, with them. Skinner led the way with Charlie bringing up the rear. He took them on a circuitous route to where Todd and Krycek were waiting. Todd was packed and ready to go. He made no secret of how happy he was to see Skinner again. Though he brushed it off as relief that he didn't have to pack again the next morning. "Well, don't we smell better?" was his first comment to Skinner. Skinner's face colored at that. Two hot showers in two days were luxury like he had forgotten existed. "Would have sent for you, but they didn't have enough hot water to clean you in the whole town." Todd grinned and Skinner made sure the situation was explained in more detail that night while they shared guard duty. Skinner watched Krycek size up the group and found them wanting. Good, the less he had to do with them the better. He'd better warn Charlie about Krycek before he was shackled for the night. The day went without mishap and Skinner felt better with each mile that took them away from Sam. The inhabitants of the town had seen them leave on a southerly route and thought they were headed for Tennessee. Still, the farther away they were the better. Charlie had to rein the boys in at first, reminding them that they would be riding their bikes for days and not to wear themselves out. When Skinner called a halt for that evening they had traveled nearly thirty miles and still had some energy left. Rather than push it, he had them set up camp, using an actual tent for the ladies - an extravagance they had not bothered with except for rainy nights on the way to Ohio. Warm fresh food was the main treat for the evening, and Skinner made sure those aspirin were liberally distributed again. Toward the end of the trip west he and Todd had no longer felt the need and he hadn't bothered to offer them to Krycek. When he spotted Krycek sitting close to Anne for dinner he moved in. She wasn't secure enough in the first place and having rat bastard paying attention to her didn't feel right. Skinner found himself sitting with Maggie and enjoying her companionship immensely. He finally noticed her eyes continuing to return to Krycek. "Do you know him?" "I don't recognize his face, but the name. . . Krycek. Why do I know that name?" "He was Mulder's partner just before Dana was missing." Was his reply, if she didn't know more than that it was enough. She did know more and turned to stare at him, her eyes wide. "He killed Melissa." Her voice was breathless, horrified. "He was involved, but he didn't pull the trigger. We do think he was the man that killed Mulder's father and probably many others we don't know." "Why are we traveling with him? Why didn't Mulder. . . ?" She was whispering but with the intensity of a shout. "He's too valuable a source Maggie. He's the one that located you and Charlie. He travels around, bringing information, and so far he's been accurate. He didn't know I had joined Mulder and Scully and we figured if he made the trip with Todd and me that information would take longer to get to whomever else he gives information to. I'm sorry to have to subject you to him." "No, if he is responsible for reuniting us with Dana and Fox, I can certainly stand to be in his company for a few days." "Weeks, Maggie. This is not a short trip." "But Tennessee - " "We're not going to Tennessee. That was just to keep anyone we met off track. We're going to Rhode Island, across the Appalachian Mountains. It took us six weeks to get here. I'm not sure how long it will take to get back." "Six weeks?" She glanced over at the bicycle. "I suddenly feel very old." "Nonsense Maggie. I watched you today. You can do this. You can do anything you set your mind to. We've got a good group here too, with the exception of Krycek. We'll work together. Come on, you need to get some rest." He stood and pulled her to her feet. "Are we far enough away?" She glanced back toward the road they'd traveled. "I think so. But just to make sure Todd and I are going to keep watch." "But you need your rest too." He smiled at her concern, feeling very safe for a moment. "Let me worry about you for a while Maggie. You can take over later." He walked her to the tent feeling very comfortable in her presence. It became a ritual with them - every evening no matter how tired they were or how many miles they had traveled - to spend a few quiet minutes alone, just talking before turning in for the evening. It became more important to each of them than the aspirin when it came to relaxing. They were well into the trip home before they realized that Todd and Anne had begun the same practice, and that Todd occasionally held her hand when he walked her to the tent, though it had gone no farther. Skinner noticed also how well Todd got along with the two boys. He helped them, of course, over rough spots on the road, but he also talked with them, showing them constellations at night and discussing baseball and hockey during the day. Skinner finally commented on it to Todd, "When I met you, you didn't seem the type to spend much time with kids." "I wasn't. Kids bore me, but these two. . . I don't know, they haven't complained about how hard things are, they don't whine. They're actually kind of interesting to talk to. They even talked to me about how hard it's been for Mary and Anne and Maggie. I mean, they noticed that, I thought kids that age were usually oblivious to stuff like that." Skinner nodded, the two boys had shown more fortitude than he had expected. Todd spoke again, "It makes me wonder what they endured under Sam's command. I didn't meet him, was he capable of scaring the boys?" "Todd, I think you're the one that's maturing. About Sam, yeah you're probably right. Things should be much improved for all of them once we're home." "Listen, about Anne. . ." Skinner waited. "Uh, I mean, she's not Dana's sister, right?" He nodded. "Well, if I wanted to, to. . . " "Date her?" Skinner offered. "Well, yeah." He grinned at the term. "Who should I . . .shit!" Skinner smiled. "I think you're doing fine on your own. She's an adult. If you want to know more about her Maggie would probably talk to you. I know she went through some bad times before the Scully's took her in, you need to go slow." "I know. You think Maggie would mind?" "I think she'd be happy to talk to you. She cares a lot about Anne and wants to make sure she's not hurt." Todd nodded his agreement to that. Skinner mentioned it to Maggie the next time they had some privacy. Maggie's response surprised him. "It's taken him long enough." "What? I've been cautioning him to slow down, not push her too fast." "Well, that's probably good advice, but Anne needs to feel like she belongs to someone. She knows she belongs to us, but she needs the security of a relationship. I've watched Todd with her and with the boys. I like him." Skinner relaxed, he trusted Maggie's instincts with people. If she was okay with the two of them, it was fine with him. Besides he had other things on his mind. It was getting to be time to cut Krycek loose, the problem was would he go? If Dana was still pregnant, and she should be - hugely so by now - the last thing he wanted was Krycek showing up with them when they returned. This wasn't a matter he could discuss with Maggie, which already felt strange. He'd talked about everything with her. He still marveled at how comfortable they were with each other. Todd was more than delighted that the time had come. His opinion of Krycek had been low to begin with, and had only deteriorated traveling with him. He did suggest posting a guard to ensure that all Krycek did was leave. Skinner agreed with that and they decided not to shackle the man beginning that night, under the assumption that he might not take the bait the first night. The rest of their group was warned that this would be happening, though no mention was made to Krycek himself. The boys were especially excited at the intrigue of it all and decided to stay awake to see if he ran. Their eyes finally closed on them and they were more than disappointed when he was still there the next morning. Nothing was said though Krycek seemed more alert and energetic than anyone could remember ever seeing him before. Following the last break before setting up camp for the night, Todd found Skinner checking the chains on all of the bikes. "I think he's gone." Skinner looked up startled. Well, he probably wanted to get some distance between them while there was still daylight. Yeah, that's what he would want, should he be escaping. Fine, but there would be guards around the camp tonight. He knew Krycek wasn't armed, he and Todd held all of the weapons at all times. Still, he wasn't willing to take chances with these peoples' lives. They already meant more to him than he had thought possible. All three men posted guard that night, and the night after. There was no disturbance and they decreased their guard to one on the third night. Being only days away from home was adding a lightness to the trip, more laughter, and more handholding, except for the weather it could have been spring. ***** "Dana! Oh my god!" Maggie held her tight for a moment, then finally released her and stepped back to take another look. She turned to Mulder. "When are you going to marry her?" "I did already. A long time ago." He held up his left hand and then hugged this woman who had already been more mother to him than any other. "I'm so happy for you Fox." She whispered to him. He squeezed her tighter. A mother-in-law, what a concept. Mulder watched the man in the group approach Scully and even though this had to be Charlie, he was on alert. Maggie smiled, Dana was in excellent hands here. Charlie took Dana in his arms and hugged her, then stepped back. "You are really knocked up, Dana." Before she could reply he turned toward Mulder, "And I assume you are the knock-er. Mulder, not Fox, right?" "Right." Mulder held out his hand and shook with the younger man. He could see Scully in his face. "Funny, I don't see horns." "Ah, you've been talking to Bill." "Yeah, but don't worry about it. Bill and I don't agree on a lot of things." Mulder felt himself relaxing. "This is my wife, Mary and my boys, Will and Sam. We're very glad to be here." "Not nearly as glad as we are to have you here safe. We've got a house ready for you, and your stuff is already being taken there." He'd seen Kevin take over as soon as Scully had so obviously recognized the group. "We'll have dinner for you in a little while, after you've had a chance to freshen up." Scully took her mother's hand. "I'll take you over." "No, you won't." Mulder put his arm around her. "I'm taking you home, you'll see everyone at dinner." "Mulder, I'm pregnant, not sick." Maggie grinned. "And you're going to stay that way for a few more weeks. You've had enough excitement. If they made it this far, they're not going to get lost going to the house." His tone was light, but she knew she wasn't going to win this one. He winked at Maggie as she muttered, but took Scully's arm and headed her toward the door. "Walter! Why didn't you tell me?" Mulder heard Maggie as she approached Skinner who was grinning ear to ear. "And spoil the surprise? Why do think I was in such a hurry? I had orders to meet my deadline and I did it. I don't plan to move again for at least two days." "Not even to help me get settled?" "Well, maybe I could be persuaded. . . " Mulder nearly turned back. Maggie and Skinner, flirting? Scully didn't seem to have heard them. What had happened on the trip here? He definitely wanted a few minutes alone with Skinner as soon as possible.