================================================================================
TITLE: Changes
AUTHOR: Mithril (perretta@entelchile.net)
TYPE: Story
RATING: PG-13
SUMMARY: Da'an learns that human feelings are dangerously contagious.
DISCLAIMERS: Earth: Final Conflict characters and Universe are from Gene Roddenberry.
No copyright infringement is intended. De'lan, Tel'kar, Va'der, Va'rel, Susan, Dr. Simon Morrison
and General Lucien Philips are my creation.The idea is mine.
SPOILERS: The story is set after the second season's episode of Earth:final conflict, "Between Heaven and Hell", but
from there it goes to a parallel universe.
AUTHOR'S NOTES: AThank you very much to Sand and Ja'el for editing my story. To understand this story, you must
read "Zo'or's Adventure: Strange Companions" and "Zo'or's Adventure: The Gathering" first.
================================================================================

Changes
by Mithril

	Onboard the Mothership, inside his private chamber, a Taelon -seated on
his throne-like chair- relaxed under the energy stream.  Abruptly, the
peaceful moment was interrupted by a mental communication.


(Va'der) a known voice called him.


Startled, Va'der closed the stream with a wave of his hand and, panicking,
he tried to shield his mind from the intruder.


(Answer me, Va'der!) the voice spoke again.


(Leave me alone!)


(Do not be afraid of me) the interlocutor said in a sweeter tone. (I need
your help.)


(You betrayed me!) Va'der accused.


(You are unfair.  All was a part of my plan.  Unfortunately, it did not
work) the other one explained in a hurt tone.


(I...)


(Give me another chance) the voice interrupted him kindly.  (I need a
favor).


Va'der did not answer, he just remained quiet.


(Please, my friend) the intruder insisted after a few minutes.


(What is it that you want?) Va'der asked finally.


(I need you to get something for me.  It is a small box.  You will find it
in my chamber, inside a secret compartment under my chair.)


(Is that all?) 


(Yes.  Just do not let them see you.)


(Why the secret?  Is it dangerous?) Va'der asked, alarmed.


(Of course not) the voice quickly added.  (Will you help me?  I know that
you can do it.  I only trust the ones who deserve it.)


Va'der blushed blue (I will give you the box tonight.)


(Thank you.) the presence said, and, pleased, vanished from the Taelon's
mind.


A moment later, Va'der rose from his chair and, with a sigh, left his
chamber.


******


	In a completely different part of the Mothership -the detention area-
Tel'kar glowed, extremely pleased, inside his cell.  *Poor Va'der* he
thought.  *He is so easy to control.  I only hope that nobody notice his
presence in my chamber.*  With a satisfied smirk, he laid back on his chair.


******


	Va'der entered Tel'kar's room, unnoticed, and found the required item
without trouble.  He picked it up and immediately went his way to the
detention area.  Once there, before reaching his friend's cell, he tampered
the security system, shutting off the energy shield and the surveillance
cameras.


When Tel'kar saw the box in the hands of Va'der, the dangerous Taelon
sparkled brighter in anticipation and rose from his chair.
"Well done, my friend," he said softly, hiding his anxiety.


"Nobody knows that I am here, but I must leave you soon.  Here is your
box," Va'der said, giving the item to the prisoner.


Tel'kar took it and returned to his seat.  "You are right, leave me now."


Va'der saluted him and, after activating the security system again, he left
the detention area and hurried to his chamber, an unsettling feeling in his
mind.


Tel'kar followed him with his gaze and then closed his eyes.  *I tried to
save them, to guide the Taelons through the right path, but they did not
listen.  Instead, they imprisoned me.*  Angry, he turned his hands into
fists.  *Now I will speak no more.  I seek revenge!*
Tel'kar opened the box and smiled at its content: a long, flexible needle
and an essay tube, containing a mixture of genetic material... Jaridian and
Human.


The hybrid DNA was the result of his talent combined with the work of one
human scientist, Doctor Simon Morrison.  The alien's grin widened.  *I was
very lucky to find such a brilliant, but fool man as Morrison.  He thought
that learning the most secret Taelon's technologies would be priceless... 
Well that was until I implanted him.*  Tel'kar tilted his head.  *Did he
not realize that I simply could not let him go away with all that
knowledge?  Stupid human,* he thought, amused.  *He failed in killing
Zo'or...*  He shook his head.  *It does not matter, though, I will soon
have another opportunity.  The next time, things will be different...  I
will be different!*  He finished with an evil grin.  Then, he took out the
needle and the tube; closed himself from the Commonality... and carefully
introduced the needle in his stomach.  Immediately, the smirk vanished from
his face, a sudden fear ran through his sparkling body.  All coherent
thought disappeared from his mind, leaving a black void instead.  Feeling
an incredible pain, he abruptly rose from the chair, wrapped his arms
around him... and fell unconscious to the floor.


******


	The next day -unaware of Tel'kar's plans- the Synod met again  in Da'an's
Embassy, to discuss Susan's current state and the hybrid's fate.


"This is an unexpected event," Va'rel said, emphasizing his words with a
gesture of his hand.


"Unexpected, yes," Da'an agreed, "but not unfortunate.  It brings us hope."


"Da'an is right," De'lan noted.  "We are a dying race, this new life is
invaluable."


"If that is the case, I suggest that we recover the hybrid," another Taelon
stated.


Da'an was about to answer, but Zo'or spoke first.  "That would be an unwise
decision.  Our scientists have not succeeded in the development of a proper
synthetic host for the hybrids.  We should let this one remain with the
current human host."


"Then, the woman must be transferred to the Mothership," Va'rel reasoned.


"No," Da'an said gently, but  firmly contradicted him, "let her remain
under my care.  If you want a natural development of the pregnancy, our
Mothership is not the better place to accomplish that."


Va'rel tilted his head and considered the North American Companion's words.
 "Your proposal is interesting.  I agree with you," he said, two minutes
later.


"And so do I," De'lan added.


"The woman will be your responsibility," Zo'or stated, giving a knowing
look at Da'an that the others did not notice.  "You shall keep us informed."


"Of course," Da'an said, slightly smiling.


"Has the Taelon parent been identified?" De'lan asked, interested.


Da'an faced him, a strange sadness in his eyes.  "Not yet.  Doctor Belman
is carrying on an investigation."


"Good.  I want to know the results," Zo'or said.  Then she blushed blue and
her hands began to move nervously.  "We have another thing to discuss."


"Tel'kar," De'lan whispered, blushing blue too.


"Do not worry," Da'an soothed them.  "Tel'kar is a threat no more.  He
shall remain in the detention area, physically isolated from us."


"Va'der is still free," Va'rel reminded him.


Da'an bowed his head.  "He was a victim too.  I believe he has learned the
lesson."


"I hope so," another member said.


"He will not interfere with us again," Zo'or said, slowly waving a hand. 
"This reunion is over.  We shall return to our duties."


After the salute was made, one by one the holographic images of the Taelons
disappeared, except Zo'or, who was physically there.


"Thank you for supporting me," Da'an said, meeting her eyes.


"Do not even think that I have changed my plans towards humanity," she said
with a smirk.  "It is just that I...  I..."


Amused by her sudden lack of words, Da'an raised a hand and interrupted
her.  "I understand.  Even the most ruthless Taelon can make a good
action... every one or two thousands years."  He tilted his head.  "Not to
mention that we always want to please... our loved ones," he finished, a
hint of mischief in his voice.


Zo'or blushed blue.  "Maybe you are right," she said simply, but she had to
admit that she still remembered that Susan had helped her.


"Susan and Mr. Doors share a strong bond," Da'an stated.


"I know, but it does not bother me."  She walked towards the virtual glass
window and bowed her head.  "However, I am afraid if something happens to
Susan, Joshua will never forgive me."


Da'an, rose from his chair and followed her.  "You are wrong in your
assumption.  He loves you so much that he will always forgive you. 
Besides, I will protect Susan... even from you."


Zo'or turned and looked at him.  "I will not harm her nor the hybrid,"  she
said sincerely.  Then she tilted her head, curious.  "What will you do when
the identity of the Taelon parent is known?"


Da'an lowered his gaze.  "It will be his right to raise the infant," he
said sadly, but did not mention that surely Susan would prefer to stay with
the child... instead of him.


Deeply touched, Zo'or placed a hand on his shoulder.  "Once the identity is
known, I will suggest that you remain near the new born... and its mother."


Da'an just looked at her with wide eyes.  He smiled.  Was it possible that
Zo'or had changed that much?  "Thank you," he managed to say.


The Synod Leader nodded and, as if knowing his thoughts, she withdrew her
hand and walked away from him.  "I will go to the sick bay and say good bye
to Joshua," she informed him and turned to leave.


"I will accompany you," Da'an said, amused, following her to the exit.


******


	Joshua Doors stood behind the sick bay crystal, looking at his dearest
friend with worried eyes.  Susan laid on the bed, peacefully sleeping.  Her
face was deadly pale, her head more red than ever.  He sighed.  He had
recovered one love.  Why he should lose the other?


"Don't worry, she will be all right," a kind voice said, next to him.


"Dr. Belman," he greeted her, "Susan..."


"She will wake up when her body allows her to do so."


He smiled sadly and turned his gaze to his redheaded friend again.


******  


	Tel'kar's mind wondered freely across the universe, experiencing new
sensations he had not even imagined they exists. *Now I understand the
Jaridian's strength.  If they are able to feel this way, they will surely
defeat us.  Do my fellow Taelons not know that they live in a state of
dullness?*  After a moment, he felt attracted to a new, wonderful mind, one
that was not completely Taelon.  Curious, he slowly and silently
approached, to discover that it was not one presence, but two.  He went
towards them and, abruptly found himself in a garden.  There, he saw them. 
A human woman, with startling red hair, was seated on a bench, her eyes
closed, a child between her arms.  Surprised and annoyed with himself,
Tel'kar realized that he was not able to take his gaze away from the
woman... she was beautiful.  *What is happening to me?  Why--*
His thoughts were interrupted by a soft voice.


"Why do you keep your eyes closed?" the girl asked.


The woman opened her eyes and smiled at the child.  "Because I am tired,"
she answered, stroking the child's hair.


To Tel'kar's astonishment, the girl blushed blue.  It was a hybrid and,
somehow, he knew that it was the fetus he had given to General Philips... 
Therefore, he knew who the Taelon parent was!  Overwhelming anger reached
to him.  *I will not allow this!* he thought, approaching them.  *You
should embrace the Void!*


As if hearing his thoughts, the woman turned her head and looked in his
direction, right through him.


"Who are you?" she asked, stiffening on the bench.  "I can't see you, but I
know you are here."


Tel'kar stopped and after a moment of hesitation, he appeared before her in
his true Taelon form.


"You are a Taelon!" she exclaimed.


"I am Tel'kar," he said, creating a human façade.


"What do you want?" she asked seriously.


He tilted his head and smiled coldly.  "The hybrid must cease its
existence."


The woman opened her eyes wide and, protectively, wrapped her arms around
the girl.  "No!  She is just a girl.  I will not let you harm her!"


Tel'kar blushed blue.  He felt her fear, but curious, he noticed that the
woman was not afraid for her own life, but for the hybrid's fate.  "There
is nothing that you can do.  Why do you want to protect her?"


She looked at him with eyes full with determination.  "I don't need a
reason, I love her."


He tilted his head, as if considering her words.  "Why?  You are just a
host, you are not linked to her."


"Yes I am!" she exclaimed, annoyance in her voice.


"It does not matter," he said with a smirk.  "In spite of your feelings,
you know that you cannot save her.  I will not let her live," he finished,
raising a glowing hand and walking towards them.


The woman tried to rise from the bench, but she could not move.  Slowly,
her arms released the child.


"You must escape!" the girl urged her, afraid.


"I am... too tired...  Please forgive me..." she whispered, closing her
eyes again.


The girl blushed blue and embraced her mother.  "FATHER!" she yelled.


******
 
	(FATHER!)  Da'an lost his disguise at the strong call.  Without a word to
Zo'or, he walked as far as he could to the sick bay.  Startled, the Synod
Leader just managed to follow him.


******


	In the infirmary, all the alarms were on.


	"We are losing her!" one of the nurses exclaimed.


"Not under my care" Dr. Belman muttered, annoyed.  "Come on, Susan, you can
do it."


"She's barely breathing and the pulse is almost gone."


"She's having a heart attac!"


"She--"


******


In the observatory room -with his hands on the crystal- Joshua watched,
frozen and scared beyond belief, how his best friend was dying.  "Susan,
no..." he whispered, bowing his head.


Suddenly, he felt a gentle touch on his shoulder.  He knew who it was
(Zo'or) he mentally greeted her, fighting the impulse to hold her.  


(Everything will be all right.  Look.) she tenderly thought to him.


He did as he was told an saw Da'an in the emergency room.


******


"Her lungs are failing.  Prepare her for surgery," Dr. Belman ordered.


"Wait," a soft voice ordered behind her.


She turned and blinked in surprise.  "Da'an.  Sorry, but..."


Without a word, the Taelon approached the patient and placed his hands in
Susan's forehead.  Startled, he recognized that Tel'kar's presence
surrounded her.  
(I am here) he thought to her.  (I will protect you)  
(LEAVE HER ALONE!) he commanded, completely losing his human appearance.


******


	Ignoring the child's cry, Tel'kar continued walking, menacing, towards the
woman.  Suddenly a sparkling blue swirl surrounded her in a protective way.
 
"LEAVE HER ALONE!" a known and hated voice ordered from within the swirl.


"DA'AN!" Tel'kar yelled, disgusted, before being rudely expulsed from the
garden.


******


	To the medical team's surprise, Susan stabilized and began to breath
normally.
Drained and exhausted, Da'an withdrew his hands and regained his human
appearance.  


"Da'an, are you all right?" Dr. Belman asked concerned.


He slightly smiled.  "Yes.  I only need some time under the energy stream,"
he explained.  With a last glance at Susan, he walked, shaking, to the
door.  Immediately, Major Kincaid -who had just arrived- stood by his side.


"Liam, I want you to check the detention area aboard the Mothership," he
ordered.


"Of course Da'an, but first, I will escort you to your private chamber,"
Liam said in a worried voice.


Da'an nodded.  


Once outside, Da'an joined Zo'or and Joshua.  The North American Companion
smiled kindly at the human and looked at Zo'or.


(It was Tel'kar.  It took me a great effort to control him) he thought to
her.


She blushed blue.  (That is impossible!  He is completely isolated in the
detention area.)


(I know.  That is what unsettle me.  Major Kincaid will investigate the
issue.) Da'an finished and, after the salute, he left the sick bay with
Liam's help.


Zo'or followed him with her gaze, her hands moving fast.  Worried and
focused in Da'an's words, she almost jumped when Joshua patted her on her
shoulder.


(Sorry) he apologized.  (I didn't mean to scare you.)


(I will never be intimidated by a human) she thought to him, a smirk on her
face.


He raised a bemused eyebrow.  (I know).  He sighed.  (Do you think the
Synod Leader can receive me without a previous appointment?) he asked
seriously.  (I...  I need you) he thought to her.


(Of course... and so do I) she whispered back in his mind, blushing blue
again.


A wide smile lit up his face.


******


	Slowly, Tel'kar regained consciousness.  It took him a few minutes to
realize that he had returned to his cell -aboard the Mothership.  For a
second, he thought he had dreamed the past events...  Until he saw his
glowing palms.  *Shaquaravah!* he exclaimed in his mind.  Gathering all his
strength that was left, he rose from the floor and sat on the chair.  He
activated the energy stream.  *Revenge will be so sweet,* was his last
thought before relaxing.


******


	Inside his chamber, Da'an recovered under the energy stream,  his mind
full with concerned thoughts.  Tel'kar had threatened Susan and the hybrid.
 How could that be?  According to Liam's research, the dangerous Taelon had
never abandoned his cell.  He tilted his head.


On the other hand, why had he heard the child's call?  He stiffened and his
hands began to move.  Could it be that he and the fetus--  Da'an shook his
head.  *No.  That would be an incredible coincidence.  I must not even
think about the possibility,* he thought, trying to calm himself.  He
decided to ignore the idea, but deep inside he wondered, dreamily, what
raising a child would be like.


******


	Two weeks later...


	Dr. Belman was seated behind her desk when one of her assistants informed
her that the results of Susan's and the hybrid's exams, were finally ready.
"Thank you, Patricia," Juliana said.  "Have you checked on Susan today?"


Patricia sighed.  "Yes, Doctor.  Her vitals signs are normal, but she is
still sleeping, in coma."


The Doctor tilted her head and downloaded Susan's information in her
computer.  A smile appeared on her face.  "I believe that that will soon
change.  According to these results, she can wake up at any minute.  Now go
to work."


With a grin, the nurse left.


Dr. Belman returned her attention to the computer and downloaded the fetus'
results.  *Let's see who your parents are, little one,* she thought
curiously while watching the screen.  A second later, her jaw fell open. 
Indeed, she now knew who the Taelon and human parents were.  *I must
contact Da'an!*


******


	Inside his office, Joshua Doors gave nervous glances to his watch,
counting the minutes that remained to meet a certain Synod Leader.  He had
not been able to see her since Susan's incident in the sick bay, two weeks
ago.  He shook his head, vanishing that dreadful memory...  But then, he
remembered Zo'or's gentle touch and--  He flushed.  Suddenly, his thoughts
were interrupted by the unmistakable sound of a shuttle.  His eyes lit up.


******


	Sandoval descended from the craft, a grim expression on his face.  *I do
not understand why Zo'or sent me to get Joshua Doors.  I am not a delivery
boy!  I am sure Captain Marquette would have been more than willing to
accomplish this task--*
Abruptly -thanks to his CVI- he saw again Joshua Doors tenderly carrying
Zo'or in his arms.  Shocked by the memory, the implant shook his head. 
*Stop!* he thought, annoyed, but then, he remembered the look Doors had
gave the Taelon and, in spite of himself, Ronald Sandoval flushed. 
Startled by his unimplant reaction and idea, he cleared his throat and
walked towards the building.  A few minutes later, he stood before the
Representative's office.  With a last look at his pocket watch, he knocked
the door.
Doors opened and, even though his face was serious, Sandoval couldn't help
but notice the lawyer's shinning eyes.


"Agent Sandoval," Joshua greeted him.


"Mr. Doors," the attaché answered with a slight grin.  "Follow me," he
finished, turning and walking towards the exit.


******


	Susan was in a beautiful garden, seated on a bench, feeling the warm
sunshine on her face.  After a while, she realized she was not alone.  She
opened her eyes and smiled.  "Hello, little one," she said to a girl with
red hair and startling blue eyes.


The child smiled back.  "Hello," she greeted Susan and then tilted her
head, denoting curiosity.  "Why do you call me 'little one'?"


Susan blinked in surprise, as if she had not thought of that before.  "I
don't know your name," she answered.  "Can you tell it to me?"


The girl seemed amused.  "I do not have a name yet.  You have to think of
one for me."


Susan grinned.  "Of course I will.  It will be beautiful as you."


The child blushed... blue.  "Thank you!"  Abruptly, she turned serious. 
"But you should wake up first."


Susan looked at her with sad eyes and bowed her head.  "I know.  It's just
that I am so tired... and scared."


The child held her hand.  "Do not be afraid.  He will protect us.  He
promised you that."


"I know," she said with a sigh.


The girl embraced her tenderly and whispered something amazing in her ear. 
"My father will protect us."


******


	In the sick bay, Da'an stood in the observation room, worriedly looking at
Susan.  She had been sleeping since the hybrid's implantation and, in spite
of all the medical care, he could not see any sign telling that she would
wake up.


"Da'an," Doctor Belman greeted him, interrupting his thoughts.  "Thank you
for coming so soon."


The North American Companion turned and nodded.  "You said that it was
urgent," the Taelon explained, his fingers moving fast.


"We have an important thing to discuss," Juliana said and, guessing the
motive of his agitation, she quickly continued.  "Don't worry about Susan,
she will be fine.  Her body needs time to accept the new live within her...
 And that new life is the reason why I have called you."


Da'an tilted his head, puzzled.  "Please explain," he prompted, noticing
that the normally calm human was acting strangely.


"After several exams, I have discovered the genetic origin of the fetus...
of the girl."


"Do you mean her parents?" Da'an asked, interested.


"Yes.  The DNA test showed an incredible result.  I don't know how it
happened, but Susan is the genetic mother."


The Taelon blushed blue.  Are you sure?"


"Yes.  It seems that, in order to adapt to her new environment, the fetus
was able to change half of her own DNA by copying the one of the host."


"Indeed is an incredible result, Doctor," The North American Companion
agreed, amazed, knowing that Susan would be pleased.


Doctor Belman looked at him and took a deep breath.  "I also know who the
Taelon parent is," she said nervously.


At her sudden silence, Da'an tilted his head.  "Please, continue," he
patiently urged her.


"You are," she informed him, serious.


Da'an opened his eyes wide and lost his façade.  He did not know what to
think, he only wanted to be with Susan.  Without a word to Doctor Belman,
he turned again and entered her room.  Carefully, he sat at a side of the
bed and held one of her hand.  With his free hand, he gently stroked her
hair.  (Please wake up.)  He thought to her.


(I... am... scared.)  She whispered in his mind, but he knew that she was
still dreaming.


(Do not be.  I will protect you, always.)


(Is it a promise?)


(Yes.)  He answered sincerely.


A moment later, he noticed that her hand slightly moved.  Slowly, she
opened her eyes and smiled.  Da'an regained his human appearance and smiled
back.


"I am hungry," she whispered, blushing.


"Of course," Da'an said, amused.


They did not see a happy Doctor Belman watching them through the crystal.


******


	Inside her private chamber -onboard the Mothership- Zo'or was seated on
her chair, nervously waiting for her guest.  The last two weeks had been a
eternity for her.  *How can humans control their feelings?* she thought,
annoyed.  *How can they stand separation?*  She sighed, suddenly afraid of
the power that those feelings had over her.
In that very moment, Agent Sandoval entered, followed by a serious Joshua
Doors.


"You may leave now, Agent Sandoval," she dismissed him.


"Yes, Zo'or," he said, not daring to suggest a different thing.  He made
the Taelon salute -that Zo'or did not bother to answer- and left the room.


******


	Sandoval had just stepped outside the Synod Leader's chamber, when the
door abruptly closed behind him.  *I wonder why Zo'or receives Joshua Doors
in his private room.  
That's--*
He opened his eyes wide and flushed at the incredible answer that occurred
to him.  He shook his head.  *That is impossible!* he thought, walking
away. 


******


	Once Sandoval had left, Zo'or looked at Joshua and quickly bowed her head
at his serious face.  *Why am I so scared?* she thought, moving her fingers
fast.


A moment later, he broke the silence.  "I have a confession to make."


"A confession?" she asked, without raising her eyes.


"Yes.  I have been thinking about us and no matter how hard I tried, I--"


"Please, do not say it," she suddenly interrupted him, a cold feeling
running through her body.


"Sorry, but I must continue," he said.


"Do as you wish," she whispered sadly.


He walked towards her and held her trembling hands.  Startled, Zo'or raised
her head to meet his loving gaze.


"I cannot and I will not stop loving you... even if that means my death."


"You know that I will never harm you," she said, worried.


He slightly smiled.  "Yes, but I am just a human being.  There is not a
great difference between the humanity you hate so much... and me.  You must
not forget that I am a part of it.  I cannot change what I am," he
finished.  Slowly, he released her and walked towards the virtual glass
window.  A fantastic view of the Earth greeted his eyes.


Zo'or rose from her chair and followed him, still in her true Taelon form. 
"Neither can I." She said it in such a sad voice, that his heart melted. 
He turned and, unable to stop himself, he tenderly embraced her.


Relived, Zo'or lay her head on his chest and glowed brighter.  A second
later, she went a step back and looked intently at him.  "Interesting
thoughts," she said, "though, they are a little bit confusing.


Joshua flushed furiously.  "I... did not..."


Zo'or regained her façade and tilted her head, amused.  "I did not know
that humans could change the color of their faces... so intensely."


"That happens when we are under a strong emotion..." he explained, still
embarrassed.  Then, he looked at her with a raised eyebrow.  "As you should
know... Sophie."


This time was Zo'or's turn to blush blue.  "You must treat me with respect.
 I am the Synod Leader!" she said in a superior tone.


Joshua didn't buy it.  "I know that," he said, pulling her closer.


Suddenly, the alien stiffened.  "What is it?" he asked, concerned.


She looked at him.  "Your friend, Susan."


His face went white.  "What about her?" he asked, worried.  "Dr. Belman
told me that Susan was fine.  I--"


Zo'or gently raised a hand to his mouth.  She smiled.  "Through my link
with Da'an, I know that she is awake."


"Thank God!" Joshua exclaimed, relieved.  "Thank you," he repeated, looking
at the female Taelon.


"She is very dear to you," Zo'or stated.


He nodded.  "Yes.  Susan is my best friend, my sister."


The Synod Leader tilted her head.  "I understand," she said.  She lowered
her blue gaze.  "And what is your relation with... Captain Marquette?" she
asked in a whisper, moving her delicate fingers.


As an answer, he kissed her.  "You are the only one I love," he said in a
low voice.


Zo'or seemed to relax.  "I know, but I like to hear you say it."


A moment later, she reluctantly returned to her seat and activated the data
stream with a wave of a hand.  The image of Agent Sandoval appeared.


"Yes, Zo'or?"


"Prepare the shuttle.  The destination is the Washington Embassy."


Sandoval nodded.  "Immediately, Zo'or."


She closed the stream and looked at Joshua, whose face had turned serious. 
She knew what was troubling him.  *He is afraid for Susan!* she thought. 
She rose and walked towards him.  "You do not trust me," she said sadly.


He bowed his head.  "Please, forgive me..."


"I understand you," she interrupted him, meeting his eyes.  "I promise that
I will not harm your friend," she said sincerely.


He kissed her again.  Unable to keep her concentration, she lost her
disguise.  After a while, she regained her façade.  "Do you want to come
with me to the Embassy?" she asked, knowing the coming answer.


His eyes lit up.  "Of course, Zo'or," he said, mimicking Sandoval's tone.


She grinned.  "Do you want to become my attaché?" she asked in a teasing
tone.


"More than that," he answered, looking intently at her.


She blushed blue and walked towards the exit.  Joshua followed her, a wide
smile on his face.


******


	"Where am I?" Susan whispered, looking around.  She could have sworn that
Da'an had been with her.


"At the Washington Taelon Embassy," the doctor that she recognized as
Juliana Belman answered.  "How do you feel?"


Susan tried to sit, but a strong headache convinced her that it was a bad
idea.  She sighed.  "Like if a train has passed over me," the redhead
answered in a low voice.


The Doctor smiled kindly.  "I believe you.  No, don't move.  You have been
in coma for two weeks."


"Two weeks!" Susan exclaimed in disbelief.


The Doctorr nodded.  "Yes.  Now you have to eat and rest and in a couple of
days you will be allowed to leave the infirmary."


Susan smiled, relieved, she didn't like hospitals.  "I am glad to hear
that," she said.  "Nothing personal, Doctor, I just want to go home."


Juliana slightly looked at Da'an, who was seated on a chair out of the
patient's sight.  He rose and walked towards them.


"Da'an," Susan greeted him, "so you were with me.  I thought that you were
just a dream."


He tilted his head, a slight grin on his face.  It appeared to him that
Susan would never treat him as the North American Companion.  He liked
that.  "I am pleased to see you recovered."


She smiled back.


"There is an important matter that we need to discuss," he said, his hands
moving while he spoke.


"Dis--"  She abruptly stopped, closed her eyes and took her hands to her
temples.


"Bring the pain killer, quickly!" Dr. Belman indicated to a nurse.


"That will not be necessary," Da'an said, placing a faintly glowing hand on
the patient's forehead.


A second later, Susan opened her eyes and the Taelon withdrew his hand.  


"Thank you," the redhead said with a sigh of relief, while sitting with Dr.
Belman's help.  "What do you want to discuss?" Susan asked then.


Da'an met her amber eyes.  "Do you remember what happened to you at the
Resistance Head Quarters?" he asked.


She smiled and placed a hand on her stomach.  "Yes... and I also remember
that you helped me... us," she answered.


Da'an blushed blue and nodded.  "Due to your present state, the wisest
course of action is that you remain at the Embassy," he said seriously, his
hands moving fast again.


"Do you want me to live here?" she asked, amazed.


"Yes.  Not too long ago you told me that you trusted me," he said with a
faint blue glow around him.  "Do you still feel the same?"


Susan flushed.  "Yes," she answered without hesitation.


Da'an did not say anything, but his hands stopped moving.


Suddenly, Susan lowered her gaze, tears falling from her eyes.


"What is it that troubles you?" the alien asked softly.


"I...  What will happen after the birth?" she asked almost in a whisper,
sweeping the tears with a trembling hand.  "I know that I am just a host,
but that does not make any difference.  I do not want to lose her."


Deeply touched by her sadness, Da'an placed a hand on her shoulder. 


Slowly, she raised her head.


"The infant will remain with her mother...  With you," Da'an informed her
with a tender smile.


She blinked in surprise.  "With me?  But I am not..."


"Yes.  You are the genetic mother," Da'an interrupted her gently.  "However
Doctor Belman does not know how that occurred." 


Too happy to speak, Susan remained silent.  Da'an just nodded.  


After a while, she realized there was another important question to make. 
She met the alien's eyes.  "Do you know the identity of the Taelon parent?"
she asked, still remembering her last dream.


To Susan's amazement, Da'an lost his façade and took him a few minutes to
regain it.  "She is our daughter," he answered at last.


She grinned.  "I already knew that," she said and, at the puzzled look
Da'an gave her, she explained.  "She told me so in my dreams."


He tilted his head.  "What else did she tell you?" he asked in a soft voice.


Unable to repeat the child's words, Susan bit her lip and, shyly, lowered
her gaze.  "I cannot..." 


He blushed blue and smiled kindly, he could tell what Susan was hiding. 
(The child spoke with the truth.  I will protect you.  It is a promise.)


She looked at him with widely opened eyes and, feeling very tired, she laid
back her head.  "You have to teach me how to do that..." she whispered,
falling asleep again.


"We must let her rest now," Dr. Belman said quietly, while taking a pillow
to make her patient more comfortable.


"Of course," the Taelon agreed.


They left, but the North American Companion did not return to the audience
chamber.  He stayed in the observation room, looking at the sleeping woman
through the crystal.  (Thank you for trusting me.)  


She slightly moved her head.


A moment later, he felt the presence of the Synod Leader within the
Embassy.  Da'an smiled, she was not alone.


Zo'or and Joshua Doors arrived to the sick bay, followed by Agent Sandoval
and by Liam.


"May I see her, please?"  Joshua asked Dr. Belman, after all the salutes
were made.


Juliana looked at him with a raised eyebrow.  "Yes, but be quiet.  Even
though she slept for two weeks, she needs to rest."


"Thank you," he said sincerely, entering Susan's room.


Zo'or followed Joshua with her gaze and then looked at Da'an with
curiosity.  (Your amazement was felt through the Commonality.  What
happened?) she thought to him.  (The Synod requires an explanation.)


Da'an blushed blue and a slight smile appeared on his face.  He began to
walk towards the exit.  (I know.  Accompany me to the audience chamber. 
There I will answer all your doubts.) he answered, unable to hide his
amusement... and joy.


Zo'or just nodded.


******


	Once in the audience chamber, Zo'or could not wait any longer.  "What is
it that you are hiding from us?" she asked Da'an, a hint of annoyance in
her voice.


The North American Companion -who was seated on his chair- raised a hand in
a calming manner.  "I am not hiding anything," he said, tilting his head.


Zo'or just gave him a smirk.


"Dr. Belman has discovered the identity of the child," he informed her.


"Please continue," Zo'or prompted, gathering all her patience left.


Da'an smiled.  "The hybrid infant is my own offspring... and Susan's."


Zo'or lost her façade in amazement.  Immediately, they were surrounded by
the whole, sparkling Synod.


"The news surprises us," Va'rel said, moving his hands.


"But also bring us joy," De'lan added, deeply pleased by his friend.


"It will be Da'an's responsibility to raise the hybrid once she is born,"
Zo'or stated, regaining her human appearance.


"Of course," the North American Companion agreed, his eyes glowing with
pride.


"We shall meet the mother," Va'rel said, interested.


"You will be able to meet her once she is completely recovered," Da'an said
protectively.


"Such a reunion will be in this chamber," Zo'or added, abruptly ending the
talking.  Since her change had taken place, she did not have enough
patience for the Synod's meetings.


After the salute was made, the Taelon's holographic images disappeared,
leaving Zo'or and Da'an alone again.


"This is the third time you support me before the Synod," Da'an noted.


Zo'or blushed blue.  "I do not know what are you talking about," she said
with a smirk.


Amused, he tilted his head and was about to reply when a presence reached
to his mind.  He rose from his chair.


"What is it?" Zo'or asked, curious.


"Susan is awake," he explained and shook his head to the knowing look the
Synod Leader gave him.


******


	This time, Susan woke up completely, surprised to see Joshua seated on the
same chair Da'an had used before.  He was with his head bowed and seemed to
be truly worried.
"Are you okay, Josh?" she asked.


He raised his head and blinked in disbelief.  "Susan!  Thank God!" he
exclaimed, approaching the seat.


"Please, don't look at me like that.  Anyone would believe that I am with
one foot in the grave," she teased.


He tenderly held one of her hands.  "Please, forgive me.  If I had not
called you that night, nothing--"


There is nothing to forgive," she interrupted him, gently stroking his
hair.  "You are my best friend."


"Susan, I..."


"No, Joshua, stop that or I will get mad at you," she said in a familiar,
warning tone.  "Can you, please, help me to sit?"


"Of course," he said, placing a pillow behind her, an amused smile on his
face.  


"Thank you," she said, leaning back.  She looked at him with a raised
eyebrow and mischievous eyes.  "So...  How are the things between you
and... Sophie?"


He flushed.  "She is the one," he answered simply.


"I... understand you," Susan said, blushing too.


He opened his eyes wide.  "Your cute alien?"


"Yes," she whispered embarrassed.  "I know that he will always see me like
a friend, but I cannot help it," she finished in a resigned voice.


Joshua looked intently at his friend.  He had never seen her like this.  He
patted her shoulder in a reassuring way.  "I don't know, Carrot Head, your
cute alien seems to be very interested in you," he said teasingly.  *Yes,
very interested,* he thought.


"Joshua!" she exclaimed, almost laughing in spite of that annoying nickname.


Pleased to see that her sad mood had vanished, he raised his hands in a
peaceful manner.  "Okay, Okay," he said, in an apologetic tone.  Then he
carefully lay a hand on her stomach.  "So, am I going to be an uncle?" he
asked, a warm expression on his face.


Her eyes shone and she smiled widely.  "Yes." 


He nodded and suddenly seemed troubled.


"What is it, Josh?" she asked.


He cleared his throat and slowly withdrew his hand.  "Susan, I... don't
know how to ask this, but is the baby... I mean..."


"Relax, Joshua," she said, amused.  "Yes.  My baby is a Taelon-Human hybrid
and--"  She abruptly stopped.


"And?" he asked curious.


She flushed in a deep red.  "She is my daughter and... Da'an's."


Joshua almost fell from his seat.  "I... I do... not know what to say," he
whispered.


She grinned.  "Nothing.  Just be there for me as my best friend."


"Of course," he said, tenderly embracing her.


******


	They did not notice the two Taelons watching them through the crystal with
tilted heads.  (Someone told me that humans feeling were dangerously
contagious) Zo'or thought to Da'an.


(Indeed) he agreed, blushing blue.


******


	Two days later...


	In the detention area -onboard the Mothership- a Taelon finished his long
recovery period under the energy stream.  It took Tel'kar more that two
weeks to completely assimilate and control the combined Jaridian-Human DNA
within his own Taelon physiology, but now, he was ready.  He deactivated
the stream.


He raised his hands and stared at his glowing palms in awe.  He tilted his
head and smiled.  *I am Taelon no more,* he thought and, without effort or
regret, he severed his link with the Commonality,  the word revenge being
the last echo of his presence.


*Now I am free!* he thought.  *They are doomed.*  With a dark smirk, he
rose from his chair and fired his shaquaravah, vanishing the virtual glass
shield that imprisoned him.


He escaped.


******


	In the Washington Taelon Embassy, at the sick bay, Susan abruptly woke up
and sat on the bed, breathing heavily, an unexplainable fear running
through her body.  She was scared for her baby... and for Da'an.
Stroking her hair, she shook her head.  *It must have been a nightmare,*
she thought, trying to convince herself... in vain.  Deep inside she felt
that a real threat was over them.  With a sigh, she laid back again and
closed her eyes.  
Before falling asleep, the word revenge echoed in her mind.


******


	Inside his private chamber -after realizing that Tel'kar had escaped- a
worried Da'an contacted Major Kincaid.  


His sleepy image appeared in the data stream.  "Yes Da'an?" he asked,
stifling a yawn.


"I am sorry to interrupt your resting hours, but something important has
occurred," Da'an said, seeing the strange appearance of his protector. 
"Meet me in the shuttle bay."


His words seemed to wake up Liam.  "Of course, Da'an.  I will be there in
fifteen... twenty minutes."   


With a nod, the Taelon closed the link.  He blushed blue, feeling the
growing unsettlement within the Commonality.  In order to calm himself, he
turned his gaze to the rising sun, but it did not work.  He was too worried
to pay attention to it.  He knew that Tel'kar hated him and that he would
no doubt to harm Susan and the infant to get to him.  
If she...  Unable to finish the thought, Da'an shook his head and hurried
to the shuttle bay.


******


	"Have you found him?"  a deadly serious Zo'or asked Agent Sandoval, from
her command chair, in the Mothership's bridge.


"Not yet, but--"


"Sir," one of the crewmen interrupted him.  "There has been an unauthorized
shuttle departure."


"Are you positive?" Sandoval asked with a tense voice.


"Yes, sir."


Zo'or stiffened on her chair.  "Contact Captain Marquette.  Send her after
the missing craft with a group of volunteers," the Synod Leader oredered.


"Immediately, Zo'or," Sandoval said, turning to a control panel to call
Lili.


In that moment, Da'an and Liam entered the bridge.  


A second later, the sparkling Synod members appeared.


"How did Tel'kar escape?" the North American Companion asked worriedly. 
"He does not belong to the Commonality any more."


Zo'or turned to him.  "That is being investigated.  I have ordered Va'der's
detention, but he claims to know nothing," she answered, gesturing
nervously with a hand.  "However, one of the volunteers found a small box
inside the cell, maybe its analysis could give some answers."


"Tel'kar must be stopped.  He is too dangerous," De'lan stated, his fingers
moving fast.


"We will find him," Zo'or agreed darkly.


Sandoval approached them.  "Zo'or, the security record had been downloaded
to your data stream."


Without a word, Zo'or waved a hand and activated it.  The Taelons sparkled
brighter in disbelief, Sandoval froze and Liam's jaw fell open at the sight
of Tel'kar's shaquaravah.


"That is impossible!" Va'rel exclaimed after a tense silence.


"But it is true," Da'an almost whispered.


Suddenly, the image of the Taelon scientist, Or'rel, appeared in the
stream.  "We have finished the analysis of the samples found in the box,"
he nervously informed.  


"What have you concluded?" Zo'or asked.


"It is combined Jaridian-Human DNA.  Somehow, Tel'kar was able to repeat
the experiment that Ro'ha did."


"Yes, but the results are more terrifying," De'lan said, trembling.


"He is a threat to us," Zo'or said.  "I will keep you informed," she
finished.


The members disappeared.


After a moment, she met Da'an's eyes.  (We are his main targets) she
thought to him.


(Yes, we are, but I know what really frightens you.  You should not worry,
though.  There is no way that Tel'kar could learn about your association
with Joshua Doors.)


Zo'or seemed to relax.  (Perhaps you are right, but he does know about your
child.)


Da'an lost his façade for a second.  (I will protect them, no matter what.)
 He thought to her, his eyes glowing with determination.  Then he smiled. 
(I must return to the Embassy and I suggest you to focus your mind in
something more interesting.)  He finished with a knowing look.


Zo'or blushed blue.


Da'an made the salute and left the bridge with a worried Liam on tow.


******


	After five minutes of traveling in interdimensional mode, Tel'kar changed
to normal mode.  He was flying over Africa, specifically, the Sahara
Desert.  He checked something on the control panel and landed next to a
huge dune.  He descended from the craft and looked around.  Satisfied, he
smiled and raised a hand... to fire his shaquaravah.  Immediately, the dune
disappeared to reveal a metal dome.  He fired again and the dome opened in
the middle.  He returned to the shuttle and flew the ship towards his
secret base.  Once inside, the dome was closed and the dune appeared again.
 Tel'kar left the vehicle and quickly stepped over a golden circle drawn on
the floor, a kind of elevator.  He descended until he reached the lower
level of the facility.  He glanced around and a satisfied smirk lit up his
face.  
When his kind had first arrived to the planet, they had built a few bases
like this.  This one had been secretly built according to Tel'kar's
instructions.  He was sure that no Taelon knew about the African facility. 
All the humans that helped in the construction "accidentally" met the Void.


*Perfect,* he thought.  The place was fully equipped with Taelon
technology, including the throne-like chair and an interdimensional portal.
 *From here I will have complete access to the Mothership and the
Embassies.  I will recover my rightful place... but first, I have important
things to attend to-- old friends to visit.*


"May I assume that the hybrid DNA worked?" an expressionless voice asked
behind him, interrupting his thoughts.


Tel'kar turned and slightly smiled.  "Ah, Doctor Morrison.  Yes, you are
right," he answered, staring at his glowing hands.


"Do you want me to stay here?"


"No.  Remain with Philips.  You will be more useful there.  I need to carry
on plan B."


"Plan B?" Morrison asked, puzzled.


The Taelon looked darkly at him.  "Revenge," he explained in his soft
voice.  "Now, return to your duty.  Philips shall not suspect."


"Of course, Tel'kar," the doctor said, willing to obey the alien... after
all, that was all his motivational imperative allowed him to do.  He made
the salute and left the place.


Once alone, Tel'kar sat on the throne-like chair and activated the energy
stream, dreadful thoughts in his mind.  *I do know how to harm Da'an...  If
only Zo'or were to have the same weakness--*  He tilted his head and
grinned.  *It does not matter.  I will find a way for a sweet revenge.*  
 
******


	Augur had been stuck on his computer for the last two weeks, working on
the security system of the H.Q.  Since Philips' incident and Zo'or's visit,
Doors had been more paranoiac than ever.
*Nor that I can blame him,/ he thought and continued reading the screen.  A
moment later, he stopped.  *What is this?* he wondered, puzzled.  After a
few keystrokes, he knew what it was.  He smiled.  *I have forgotten this
little baby!* he said happily to himself.
The 'little baby' was an old security camera, hidden in the room Doors had
lent to General Philips.  Since the place was the less important of the
whole quarters, they never bothered to watch those tapes...  Although that
had been before Philips' secret project.  


Augur's eyes lit up.  *Let's see what you have to show me!*  Immediately,
the content of the tapes appeared in the screen.  After a while, he yawned.
 *Pretty boring,* he thought disappointed.  He was about to shut it off,
when an unbelievable scene caught his attention.  The genius stiffened on
his chair, took off his glasses and looked closer.  His face went white and
his jaw fell open...  Joshua Doors was tenderly kissing Zo'or, the Taelon
Synod Leader!


Quickly, he made a copy on a mini disc and deleted the original.  It was
too dangerous to just leave it there.  
*I... need to take a walk,* he thought, still shocked.  He knew that
Jonathan eventually would learn about his son's new... relation, but he did
not know who would be the one with enough courage to tell the billionaire
such a thing.  
With a shake of his head, Augur put the disc safely in his pocket and
hurried to the elevator.


	Once he had gone, a resistance member, Peter Kramer -who had secretly
witnessed Augur's odd reaction- approached to his terminal.  He turned on
the computer and soon realized that Augur had deleted a file.  Kramer's
eyes lit up.  He knew that the genius never deleted anything.  *This must
be really important... and worthy!* he thought excited.  With a smile, he
took a strange device hidden in the back of the computer.  *I love backup! 
Surely Philips will pay for the information.*


******


	After the unsettling meeting with the Synod, Da'an returned to the
Embassy, but he was too agitated to go to the audience chamber.  Instead,
he ordered Liam to cancel all his appointments for the day.  After a moment
of hesitation, he choose to go to the garden to seek peace.


******


	Susan stood in the doorway of her new chamber, watching everything with
wide amazed eyes.  It was beautiful, furnished with a bed, two comfortable
armchairs, a desk, even a computer and a TV, but what really attracted her
was the huge virtual glass window.  With a smile, she walked towards it and
could not say a word, the sight was breath taking.  
Soon, her gaze was drawn to the garden.  She turned and decided that the
serene garden was the perfect place to forget the fear of the last night.


Distractedly, she left the room and bumped into a worried-looking Major
Kincaid.  "Sorry, Major Kincaid," she apologized.  "Are you okay?".  She
asked, placing a hand on his shoulder.


He blushed and grinned.  "Yes, but please, call me Liam."


"Well, Liam," she said kindly, withdrawing her hand.  "Is it something
wrong?  You seemed worried."


He shook his head.  "No, I am just tired," he lied. 


She looked at him with a raised eyebrow, knowing that he was lying, but she
decided not to push him.  "Then you should rest," she suggested with a
tender smile.


He looked intently at her and smiled back.  He began to understand Da'an's
interest in her.  *Do not worry,* he thought.  *I will protect you,
Da'an... and your baby.*


(Thank you, Liam) a soft, sweet voice thought to him.


He blinked in surprise.


"What is it?" she asked, seeing his strange reaction.


"No... nothing," he answered, blushing again.


Susan tilted her head and, for a second, she thought of Liam as a kid.


Fortunately for him, his global called.  "Excuse me," he apologized, while
opening it.  He turned serious.  "Agent Sandoval."


"Major Kincaid," Sandoval said.  "You must return to the Mothership to
coordinate the search."


"I will be there," the hybrid said with a tired sigh.  He closed the global
and turned to Susan.  "I must go now.  Good bye, Susan."


"Bye, Liam."  She followed him with her gaze.  *A search?* she thought. 
Shaking her head, she continued her way to the garden.  




	A few minutes later, she arrived and a strange déjà vu reached to her
mind.  *I know this place.  I have been here before,* she thought, looking
around.  Suddenly, she remembered.  *My dream!*


(Yes.)  A voice answered in her mind.


Startled, she turned.  Da'an was seated on a bench, looking at her with a
tilted head.  She smiled and walked towards him.  "May I sit?" she asked.


"Of course," he said gently, gesturing with a hand.


She sat and faced him, a concerned look on her face.  "What happened?" she
asked.  "I just met Liam and he seems very worried about something."  She
stopped for a moment and then continued.  "You also look distressed."


Da'an blushed blue.  "Everything will be all right," he said, looking at
her through the corner of his eye.


"I..."


(You should not worry) he kindly thought to her.


She blinked in surprise.  "Why...  How...  Do you speak in my mind?" she
asked in awe, forgetting her previous question.


Da'an smiled at her confusion.  "Do you remember our conversation at the
Main Observatory, onboard the Mothership?"


"Of course," se answered, flushing at the memory.  "You told me that you
were able to feel what I feel."


He nodded.  "Yes," he said.  "And now our link is getting stronger."


She smiled and placed a hand on her stomach.  "I understand..." she said
thoughtfully.  "But when will I be able to feel what you feel?" she asked
softly.


(You already are) he thought to her.


She opened her eyes wide in amazement.  (I believe you) she whispered in
his mind.


Da'an looked intently at her, surprised by her faith in him.  Unbidden, a
deep feeling ran through his body.  Blushing blue, he quickly hid the
emotion.  Lowering his gaze, something caught his attention.  He tilted his
head.  "What is that ornament on your finger?" he asked.


Susan raised her hand and took off a gold ring with a blue zephyr.  She
gave it to him.  "It's my ring.  My mom gave it to me," she explained.


Da'an looked at the jewel with curiosity.  "It appears to be very old."


She smiled.  "Yes it is.  It had been in my family for generations, always
passing from mother to daughter," she said and her eyes lit up.  "Now I
will be able to do the same...  If you agree," she finished, hope in her
voice.


The North American Companion grinned.  "Of course.  However, we Taelons do
not were jewelry."


"Oh... but we humans do," she said in a teasing tone.  "I believe is up to
Nikki to decide."


"Nikki?" the alien asked, puzzled.


Susan flushed and stared at her lap.  "Well...  I am not sure of the name
yet...  It's just an idea," she explained, embarrassed.


"Maybe we should discuss that  topic later," he suggested.


"Sure," she said, a little bit disappointed.  She really liked that name.


Da'an tilted his head, her disappointment not lost to him.  He returned her
the jewel.  "Here is your ring with a... blue stone," he said, clearly
referring to her last name.  


She put the ring on her finger again.  "Thank you," she said, smiling
innocently.


Da'an looked at her through the corner of his eye and smiled back.


Suddenly, her stomach roared.


"I believe that you are hungry," he noted, amused.


"Yes, almost starving." 


"You should eat," he said.  "I have ordered to adapt a dining room next to
your chamber."


"Thank you," she said and after a slight bow of her head, she turned.  She
had walked a couple of steps, when a thought occurred to her.  She stopped
and faced him again.  "I don't want to eat alone.  Would you like to join
me?" she invited him shyly, biting her lower lip.


Da'an blushed in a deep blue and rose from the bench.  "It will be a
pleasure to... join you," he accepted, meeting her eyes.


Her face reddened at the intensity of his stare, but she could not take her
gaze away from him.  Fortunately for her, her stomach roared for a second
time, breaking the spell.


"I suggest you to hurry," Da'an said seriously.


"Good idea," she agreed with a smirk.


******


	Onboard the Mothership, a hurried Liam walked through a sparkling
corridor, towards the shuttle bay.  He had spent the last couple of hours
with Lili and Sandoval, coordinating Tel'kar's search.  They had agreed to
focus their effort over the Sahara Desert, the last place where the stolen
craft had been traced.  The young protector was deeply worried.  It was
pretty obvious to him that Da'an and Susan were in great danger.
Liam was so concentrated in his thoughts, that he didn't notice that the
corridor was not empty... until it was too late.  He bumped into someone, a
startled and truly annoyed Taelon...


******


	Zo'or was seated on her chair, attempting to relax under the energy
stream.  After learning about Tel'kar's shaquaravah and once finished the
meeting with the Synod and Da'an, she had withdrawn to her private chamber,
a dreadful feeling in her heart.
She shook her head, she knew what must be done.  Even though Tel'kar did
not know about her relation with Joshua, the wisest course of action was to
stop seeing him.  With a sigh, she closed the stream and rose from her
chair.  In spite of herself, she wanted to talk to Da'an... personally. 
She left her room and went to the shuttle bay.  *Tel'kar will pay for
this!* she promised herself.  She was so focused in her thoughts that she
did not see a distracted Major Kincaid walking towards her.  She bumped
into him.


"Zo'or!" he exclaimed.  "Please forgive me.  I didn't see where I was
going," Liam apologized.


Zo'or gave him an annoyed look and was about to dismiss him, when an idea
occurred to her.  "Are you returning to the Embassy?" she asked coldly.


"Yes, Zo'or."


"I want you to take me there," the Synod Leader ordered.


Surprised, he met the Taelon's determined eyes and lowered his gaze.  "Of
course, Zo'or, but I must inform Agent Sandoval of your departure."


"Do it from the ship," Zo'or said dryly, her fingers moving agitatedly. 
With a last threatening glance at Liam, she turned and hurried to the
shuttle bay.


With a helpless shrug and a sigh, the Major followed the nervous Taelon.


******


	"Did you enjoy your meal?" Da'an asked, serious.


"Yes, thank you," Susan answered with a smile.


The Taelon tilted his head.  "You did not touch the fish," he noted.


She slightly blushed.  "I don't like fish, but the other food was
delicious," she explained.


Da'an looked intently at her.  "The time will come when I will know what
you like or dislike," he said matter-of-factly.


Unable to say a word, she just blinked, wondering if Joshua had been right
and Da'an was interested in her.  *If only--*  A strong wave of nausea
interrupted her thoughts.  


To Da'an's astonishment, her face turned white and then a shade of green. 
She rudely rose from the chair.  "Please... excuse...me," she managed to
say and, shaking, ran to the bathroom.




Twenty minutes later, an impatient Da'an went to her room.  The door was
half opened; worried, he entered.  Susan laid on her bed, her eyes closed,
her arms wrapped around her stomach, her skin almost as white as his
disguise.  Da'an blushed blue.  He had seen human beings in pain before,
but no one had affected him so deeply as Susan's pain did.  It was like he
was suffering too.  Quietly, he sat on the bed and placed his hands on her
forehead.  After a moment of concentration, a faint glow emanated from
them.  She opened her eyes and smiled.


"I will call doctor Belman," he said, withdrawing his hands.


Recovered, she sat next to him and shook her head.  "No, it's not
necessary.  I am fine now.  Dr. Belman warned me that something like this
could happen.  I am experiencing the same as any pregnant woman..."


"You are wrong," Da'an interrupted her gently, a concerned expression on
his face.  "We still do not know the sides effects that such a pregnancy
could cause.  The pain that you have just experienced may be one of them."


She placed a hand on her stomach, a tender look in her eyes.  "It doesn't
matter as long as Nikki...  I mean our daughter is all right," she said.


"It has not to be that way," he began to say.  "Let me lighten your pain,
share it with me, he offered.


Meeting his eyes, she smiled kindly and shook her head.  "I could never do
something like that to you.  Your kind is not used to physical pain.  I
will never be able to see you suffer."


Da'an lost his façade at her words.  "Then you know how I feel," he said
softly.


Susan flushed, incredible thoughts occurred to her, but she forced herself
to vanish them.  Nervous, she stroked her hair.


Da'an abruptly stiffened and regained his appearance.


"What is it?" she asked, thankful for the interruption.


Feeling her sudden relief, he gave her an amused look.  "We have visitors,"
he explained, rising from the bed and walking towards the door.  Before he
had left the room, he stopped and turned.  "Do you want to join me?" he
invited her with a tilted head.


Her face lit up.  "Of course."
    
******


	Major Kincaid escorted Zo'or to the audience chamber.  When they entered,
the North American Companion was nowhere to be seen.


"I will inform Da'an that you are here," he told her.


"That will not be necessary," she said, "Da'an already knows that I am
waiting for him."


Five minutes later, Da'an and Susan arrived.  To Liam's surprise, she
smiled kindly at Zo'or.  "I am glad to see you," she greeted the Synod
Leader.


Zo'or nodded... and opened her eyes wide.  She could feel a part of Da'an
within Joshua's friend.  Unable to stop herself, she carefully placed her
hand on Susan's stomach and blushed blue.


Da'an smiled at her surprise and walked to his chair.


Feeling his amusement, Zo'or gave him an annoyed look.  "I need to talk to
you," she said.  (Alone) she added in his mind.


Da'an tilted his head.  Was it his imagination or Zo'or did not want to be
rude to Susan?


Realizing what the Taelons wanted, Susan turned to Da'an.  "If you don't
mind, I would like to go to the garden," she said.


"Of course," the North American Companion agreed, looking at her through
the corner of the eye.  "Major Kincaid will escort you out."


She smiled and with a slight bow, she left the room, followed by Liam.


Once alone, Zo'or informed Da'an about her decision regarding Joshua Doors.
 When she finished, she was surprised to see the deep sadness in his eyes. 
She did not know that his gaze was a reflection of her own sad expression.


"He will not accept your decision," Da'an said.


"I am the Synod Leader.  He will have to obey me."


Da'an raised a hand.  "You could enslave thousands of humans, but you would
never be able to deny anything to your... chosen one."


Zo'or blushed blue, knowing that he was stating the truth.


******


	Inside his car, Joshua looked at the copilot seat and smiled happily.  A
big stuffed polar bear was strapped with the seatbelt.  He knew that Susan
loved those kind of things.  A few minutes later, he arrived to his
destination, the Taelon Embassy.  He parked the car and suddenly, his whole
face lit up.  Zo'or was there too!
He grabbed the bear and entered.  He was about to go inside the building,
when he saw Susan in the garden, seated on a bench.  She had her eyes
closed, apparently lost in her thoughts.  With a mischievous grin, he
silently approached and placed the bear next to her.  Then, he hid behind a
group of bushes.  He knew that he would not have to wait too long.  He was
right.


Feeling something strange, Susan opened her eyes... to see a cute polar
bear seated by her side.  Unable to stop herself, she hugged it.


"Hey!  Isn't one of those for me?" he teased, walking towards her.


She smiled and, standing up, she embraced her friend.  "It's lovely,
Joshua," she said, holding the bear again.


"I know," he said seriously, fixing his tie.


She looked at him and raised a bemused eyebrow.  "I don't want to offend
you... but I was talking about the bear," she said in a mocking tone.


"Oh... well, he is lovely too."  Then, he turned serious.  "How are you and
little..."


"Nikki," she interrupted him, placing a hand on her stomach.


He smiled.  "How have you been?"


"I... we are fine, thank you," she answered, not mentioning the lunch
incident.


They continued talking and, after a while, Susan looked intently at him. 
"Zo'or is here," she said kindly.


Joshua flushed.  "I know."


Susan grabbed his hand.  "Let's go then."


He nodded, a wide grin on his face.


****** 


	"Tel'kar will not succeed," Zo'or said agitatedly, her hands moving fast.


"Of course not," Da'an tried to reassure her, though his hands were moving
too.


"I--"


Suddenly, she blushed blue and turned to the door.  Joshua and Susan stood
in the doorway, concerned expressions on their faces.


"Mr. Doors," Da'an greeted him, braking the tense silence.  "Susan, please, come in."

Joshua entered and after saluting Da'an, he walked towards Zo'or.  Unable to stop himself, he hugged her.  
Startled, but deeply pleased, the Synod Leader stiffened and did not return the embrace.  Abruptly realizing where 
he was and what he was doing, Joshua flushed and released her.  

Embarrassed, he did not miss the amused glances Da'an and Susan gave them.  (Please, forgive me) the 
Representative apologized lamely to Zo'or.  (I ...)

(There is nothing to forgive) Zo'or thought back to him.

He smiled.


Da'an tilted his head and turned his gaze to Susan.  She remained in the doorway, a grin on her face, 
but her eyes betrayed her.  He could see fear and... sadness within them.  He suppressed his own fear and 
concern and smiled reassuringly.  Then, gesturing with a hand, he invited her to approach him.  With a nod, 
she walked towards him.  

Curious, he eyed the synthetic animal she held tightly.  "What it that animal you are holding?" he asked.

"It is a polar bear.  Joshua gave it to me," she answered with a smirk, amused by Da'an's question.

"I see, a gift," Da'an noted.

"Is that another human tradition?" Zo'or asked, looking intently at Joshua.

"We have many interesting traditions... as you know," he answered in a low voice.

Zo'or blushed blue.

Da'an gave a puzzle look at Zo'or and then returned his gaze to Susan.  "What is the bear's purpouse?" he asked 
the redhead.

Susan considered his question for a moment and then answered.  "Hug it."

Joshua smiled at her reply and the two Taelons tilted their heads in confusion.

******

	After escorting Susan to the garden, Liam had gone to his apartment.  For security reasons, he had decided 
to move to the Embassy, so he needed some of his personal things.  To his surprise, when he arrived to his home, 
he found Augur seated on his armchair, watching TV and drinking orange juice.

"You know, Liam," the genius said, "you need to do something about your security."

"Hello to you too," Liam replied, slightly annoyed.

"Don't you have anything stronger?" Augur asked, raising his glass.

The young hybrid shook his head.  "No, I like orange juice."  Then Liam gave him a curious glance.  "What 
happened to you?  You look shocked."

"I am shocked!" Augur exclaimed.  "Here," he continued, giving his friend a mini disc.  "Take a look at this and you 
will understand."

With a raised eyebrow, Liam took it and introduced it in his global.  The images of Joshua Doors and Zo'or appeared.  

To Augur's amusement, Liam's jaw fell open.  "Does the old man know about this?" the Major asked, once he recovered his voice.

Augur shook his head.  "No and I don't have the nerve to tell him."

"Does anyone know about this?" he asked, a strange look in his eyes.

"No.  This is the only copy."

"Good," Liam said, taking the disc from the global.  Then, to Augur's astonishment, he vaporized it with a low blast of his shaquaravah.

"Are you crazy, man?!" the genius exclaimed, annoyed, jumping from his seat.

"No," Liam said seriously.  "It is better this way.  Don't you see it? Maybe Zo'or is beginning to consider humanity under a 
different point of view."

"Well, at least he... she is considering Joshua Doors under a different point of view," Augur said, shuddering at the idea.  "Besides, 
I don't want to be responsible of old Doors heart attack," he finished in a slightly teasing tone.  Suddenly, he remembered something.  
"Liam, don't tell Lili about this."

"Of course not," the Major agreed, knowing about her previous relation with Joshua.

A few minutes later, the doorbell rang.  Liam went to open the door and, to his surprise, Lili stood at the other side.

"Lili!" he exclaimed.  "Hello..."

She raised a suspicious eyebrow.  "Hi, Liam.  Is Augur here?" she asked.

"Sure, come in," he invited her in a calmer tone.

She entered and immediately noticed something strange.

"Hi Augur," she greeted him.  She tilted her head.  "Why are you two so nervous?" she asked, looking intently at them.

Liam smiled innocently.  "It's nothing, Lili."

"Do you want orange juice?" Augur offered with the same innocent grin.

"Yes, thank you," she accepted, not fooled for a second.

"Did you discover something in the desert?" Liam asked, while giving her a glass of juice.

She took it and with a shake of her head, she sat down.  "No.  We lost the signal and that's why I am here.  I need you, Augur."

"My pleasure," he whispered on her ear.

Lili just gave him one of her In-your-dreams-looks and Liam rolled his eyes.

"I need you to trace the shuttle signal over the Sahara Desert," she explained to the genius.

"Oh, that.  Sure," Augur said, disappointed.

"Thank you," she said.  After finishing her drink, she rose from her seat.  "I have to go to the Embassy."

"Why?" Liam asked, knowing that Zo'or was there.

"Sandoval ordered me to take Zo'or back to the Mothership."

To Lili's surprise, Augur dropped his juice.

"Watch it, Augur!" Liam exclaimed.

Lili put her hands on her waist.  "Are you sure that everything is okay?" she asked, suspicious.

"Oh... yes, see you at the Embassy, "Liam managed to answer, escorting her to the door.

"Bye, Lili," Augur said.

"Bye," she replayed, puzzled, knowing that they were hiding something.  

She shook her head and made her way to the Embassy.  Making Zo'or wait was always a bad idea.

******

	Peter Kramer was seated behind the bar of a Café, waiting for his guest, a greedy smirk on his face.  He took a 
mini disc out from his pocket and eyed it with curiosity.  *I wonder what disturbed Augur so much,* he thought.  *Well, it 
doesn't matter.  Sure this baby will be worth its prize--*

"Mr. Kramer, I presume," someone with an expressionless voice interrupted him.

Startled, Kramer turned.  "Who are you?" he asked, alarmed.  "Where is Philips?"

The man smiled coldly and placed a briefcase over the bar.  Slowly, he opened it.  Kramer's eyes glowed at the sight of 
the money.  He raised a hand to touch it, but the man abruptly closed the briefcase.

"General Philips extends his apologizes, he was not able to come.  He sent me instead.  I am Doctor Simon Morrison.  
What do you have to offer?"

Without hesitation, Kramer gave him the disc.  "Do you understand that I have to see its content before we close the deal?" Morrison said.

Kramer shrugged.

With a nod, Morrison put the disc inside his global, courtesy of Tel'kar.  After seeing the record, his eyes glowed evilly, knowing that 
his Taelon master would kill for the information.  Fortunately, that would not be necessary.

"Well?" Peter Kramer asked, anxious.

"The money is yours," Dr. Simon Morrison answered.

******

	Fifteen minutes later, Lili arrived to the Embassy and went to the audience chamber.  She made the 'Taelon 
salute' and nodded to Susan and Joshua.

"Captain Marquette," Da'an greeted her, "Zo'or is waiting for you."

Lili nodded in acknowledge and looked at the Synod Leader.  "Do you want to return immediately to the Mothership?"

"Yes," Zo'or said coldly, moving her hands fast.  (We will talk later) Zo'or thought to Da'an.  He nodded.  Then, she looked 
at Susan and slightly smiled.  The redhead smiled back.  Finally, she turned to Joshua and could not say a word to him.  
Da'an was lucky, he could always be with his chosen one, but she--  Zo'or shook her head and hurried towards the exit.  
Lili followed her.

(Please, don't forget what I have told you) Joshua suddenly thought to Zo'or.  (You are the only one... I love)

The Synod Leader stopped and blushed blue.  She turned around.  "Mr. Doors," she began to say, vanishing for the moment 
all her previous decisions.  "I will be expecting you tomorrow...  To hear your demands," she said aloud, but she whispered 
(I love you) in his mind.

He flushed.  "I will be there tomorrow, Zo'or," he said.

Zo'or turned again and left the chamber, followed by a startled Captain Marquette.


	"Are you all right, Josh?" Susan asked gently, noticing her friend's sad gaze.

He nodded and smiled.  "Yes.  Don't worry about me, Carrot head," Joshua teased.

She blushed.  "Joshua!"

"Carrot head?" Da'an repeated, clearly puzzled.

She rolled her eyes and placed the polar bear on the floor.  "Yes.  Due to the color of my hair, all the kids used to call
 me that at school," she explained, embarrassed, looking at Joshua.

Da'an just looked at her and tilted his head, wondering about the strange relation between vegetables and human hair.

Amused by the alien's expression, but a little intimidated by Susan's annoyed glance, Joshua lowered his gaze to his 
wrist watch.  "I have to go now.  The office is upside-down," he said.

Her eyes softened.  "Let me help you from here, at least until you find a new secretary," she offered.  "Da'an?"

The Taelon smiled, but he knew well that she was not asking for permission, she was just informing him.  "Of course."

"Thank you," Joshua said happily.  "Your help is more than welcome."  Then he made the 'Taelon salute' to the North 
American Companion and embraced Susan.  "Bye Susan.  Bye, Nikki," he said, gently laying his hand on her stomach.

"Nikki?" Da'an repeated, looking at her through the corner of the eye.

She blushed and lowered her eyes.  "Yes, I know.  We will discuss that... later," she whispered.  Then she grabbed 
Joshua's hand.  "I will escort you out," she said and immediately they left the audience chamber.

Da'an followed them with his gaze and tilted his head.  *Nikki,* he thought tenderly.  *Certainly not a Taelon name... but I 
like it.*  He smiled.  *I also like red hair...* Then, curious, he picked up the bear and, after a moment of hesitation... he 
hugged it.

******

	They have been walking for a while, when Susan suddenly stopped and met Joshua's eyes.  "Did you feel their fear 
when we arrived?" she asked, a worried expression on her face.  

He nodded and embraced her reassuringly.  "I noticed that too," he whispered.

She sighed.  "They are afraid, Josh.  Da'an is deeply worried and..."  She did not finish the sentence.

He gently pulled her back.  "What is it?" he prompted, sharing her concern.

She bowed her head.  "I know why.  They are afraid of a Taelon called Tel'kar.  He hates them so much that--"

"Susan," he kindly interrupted her.  "You and Nikki are safe here."

She met his eyes again.  "Tel'kar is not what I am scare of," she said.

He patted her on the back and smiled.  "Come on, Carrot head," he said tenderly.  "Nothing will happen to your... 
cute alien."  *Or mine,* he added in his mind.

"Joshua!" she exclaimed, blushing and then smiled too.  "I will walk you out."

A few minutes later, they arrived to the main entrance of the building.  "Stay here, Susan," he said.  "It is cold outside."

"Bye, Joshua."

He looked at her, concerned.  "Bye, Carrot head and, please, don't worry.  Everything will be all right."

She just smiled.  After he had gone, she remembered she had left the bear in the audience chamber, so she went there.

******

	Inside his audience chamber, Da'an placed the bear on the floor, sat on his chair and contacted De'lan.  After the 
salute was made, the North American Companion spoke.  "I know that you will be given a facility on Earth," he said.

De'lan smiled.  "Yes.  In two human days."

"I am pleased," Da'an said and raised a hand.  "I need your assistance."

De'lan tilted his head.  "Of course, my friend."

"I need you to receive Susan.  She cannot remain here.  Not until Tel'kar is found."

"I understand.  I will help you gladly."

"Thank you, De'lan," Da'an said.  He was so focused on the data stream, that he did not notice that someone 
had unintentionally heard his conversation.

******

	Her heart filled with a deep sadness, Susan left the audience chamber and walked towards the elevator.  
There, she found Liam.

"Susan," he greeted her and noticing her sad demeanor, he grabbed her hand.  "Are you okay?" he asked, concerned.

She managed a smile.  "Yes, thank you."  She was about to go, but changed her mind.  She met his eyes.  "Tell me, 
Liam, how dangerous is Tel'kar?" she suddenly asked, knowing that Da'an would never answer her.

Liam blinked in surprise at the unexpected question.  "How do you know about him?"

Susan shook her head.  "That does not matter," she said seriously.  "Please, answer my question."

For some odd reason he found impossible to lie to her.  "Tel'kar was responsible of Zo'or's kidnapping.  He is extremely 
dangerous."

"Is he able to kill?" she asked, even though she knew the answer.

"Yes."

Her face went white, but she smiled slightly.  "Thank you, Liam," she said, turning.  After a few  steps, feeling a sharp pain 
in her stomach, she leaned on a wall.

"Susan!" Liam exclaimed.

"I am fine," she whispered, walking away.

Liam watched her leave, a worried glance on his face and a hole in his heart.  *I hope Da'an doesn't make a mistake with her,* he thought.

******

	To De'lan's surprise, Da'an abruptly lost his façade.

"That would be all, my friend," the North American Companion said, making the salute.  Concerned, he closed the link and eyed the bear.
Something was wrong with Susan!

******

	Susan entered her room and closed the door.  Deeply nervous, she began to pace around the chamber.  After a moment, she 
stopped before the window and fixed her gaze upon the sight.

She sighed, tears falling from her eyes.  *I know that Da'an just want to protect me, but it hurts too much--*  She blinked in surprise 
and dried her eyes, annoyed with herself.  *What is happening to me?  If it were not for Nikki, I wouldn't be living here in the first place.  
Nikki is the only reason of his interest in me.*  She started to cry again and shook her head.  *Maybe we can be friends... but he will 
never see me in a different way--  It does not matter that I love him.  I don't want to be a burden to him, but that is precisely how I feel,* 
she finished.

With a last sigh, she laid on the bed and closed her eyes, her stomach was aching again.  Minutes later, she fell asleep.

******

	Da'an stiffened and glowed even brighter.  He did not know that his silence could hurt her that much.

******

	Several hours later after the sun set, Susan woke up.  She looked around and blinked in surprise at the darkness of her room.  
She realized that she had slept the whole afternoon.  With a sigh, she rose from the bed and walked towards the virtual glass window.  
The pain had gone, but she still feel the same.  She bowed her head and place a hand on her stomach.  "Sorry, Nikki," she whispered.  
"I believe that your mom is a little bit depressed tonight."
She smiled and turned on the lights.  Suddenly, someone knocked the door.

"Come in," she said, nervous, knowing who it was.

The door opened and, in spite of her sadness she began to laugh.  Da'an stood there, carrying the bear between his arms.

Da'an smiled at her amusement and entered.  "You forgot your gift in the audience chamber," he said, giving the bear to her.

She took it and placed it on the armchair.  "Thank you."

Da'an looked intently at her, worried about her pale features and reddish eyes. "We need to talk," he said after a while.

Susan lowered her eyes.  "Yes, I know that Nikki is not a Taleon name, but--"

"It is not her name that I want to discuss," he interrupted her, gently holding one of her hands.

Startled, she raised her head and met his eyes... his loving eyes.

"I must apologize," he said, " my silence has caused a great pain to you, now I know."

"I don't understand," she whispered, her heart beating fast.

"I heard your thoughts," he said softly, knowing that she had not meant to share her thoughts with him.  "Maybe you are 
living here because of the infant, but I want you to know that you are not and never will be a burden to me."

She opened her eyes wide as the truth of his words sunk in.  "Then you know--" embarrassed beyond belief, she was not 
able to continue.  She flushed and tried to walk away, but Da'an did not let her go.

(Please, wait) he thought to her.  Then he initiated a sharing through their linked hands.  (Please, Susan, know how I feel)

A moment later, the sharing was over and Da'an released her.  (How do you feel?) he thought to her, worried at her silence.  
He knew that he had shared with her without her permission, but he had been afraid of losing her.  (Susan?)

As an answer she embraced him, lying her head on his chest.  (Now I know) she whispered on his mind.

With a smile and sigh of relief, Da'an returned the embrace, tenderly stroking her hair.  "Am I better than your bear?" he asked, 
slightly teasing 

(Yes) she simply answered in his mind.

Da'an lost his façade, amazed that such a simple word could hide so much love.

******

	Inside his secret base -located below the Sahara Desert- Tel'kar eyed the data stream, evilly planning his revenge.
Suddenly, the image of Dr. Morrison appeared.  "I apologize for the interruption, Telkar, but I believe that you should see 
something," he said, trying to hide his excitement.

The alien looked at him through the corner of the eye and, noticing the human' agitation, he decided to attend to it.  "Proceed," 
he said coldly.

Dr. Morrison made the salute and his image disappeared, leaving the information instead.  Tel'kar began to watch the stream 
intently.  He smiled at the sight of Zo'or trapped in the cell.  Then he tilted his head.  The tape showed two humans -a male and 
a female- entering the room.  He recognized them.  The man was Joshua Doors and the woman... was the one who carried Da'an's 
offspring!  With a wave of a hand, he stopped the scene and amplified the image.  Again, just as it had happened before, he was not 
able to take his gaze away from her for a long while.  The Human-Jaridian DNA had disturbing sides effects on him.  He shook his head 
and continued watching.  Somehow the woman with red hair managed to free Zo'or from the cell.  *So you were the one who ruined my 
plans,* he thought.  *You should not have done that, I--*  His dark thoughts were abruptly interrupted by the incredible and amazing sight 
of the data stream.  The human male -Joshua Doors- kissed and embraced Zo'or!

Tel'kar lost his façade, excited.  It took him more than ten minutes to calm himself.  He tilted his head.  *If I show this to the Synod, Zo'or 
will be ruined and, with enough luck, they will force him to join the void...* Not fully convinced of that course of action, he shook his head. 
 *I do not know...  That would be too easy, too fast...  On the other hand...  If I...  kill the human... Zo'or will suffer... and I do like that!*
 
He sparkled brighter at the evil thought.  Sometimes decisions were difficult to make... and, sometimes... they were not.

He regained his façade and, with a wave of a hand, the image of Dr. Morrison appeared in the stream again.  "I am pleased with the 
information," Tel'kar said.

Morrison nodded.  "Surely you will give it an interesting use."

The Taelon's eyes glowed.  "Indeed.  I need to... as human say.. get rid of someone.  Do you know how that can be achieved?"

"Of course, Tel'kar," the doctor answered.  "Who do you want me to... take care of?

The alien tilted his head, amused.  "Joshua Doors.  I do not care the way you do it.  I leave you... free will on that."

The irony of those words was not lost to Morrison, but he smiled coldly.  "Consider it done.  Do you want me to take care of the woman 
too?"

Tel'kar raised a hand.  "No.  She is mine."

Morrison gave him a slightly surprised look and made the salute.  Tel'kar nodded and closed the link.  *I think that Zo'or will appreciate my-- 
How is the expression? Ah, yes-- my greeting card.*  Then he waved a hand and the image of the redhead woman appeared again.  *And so 
will Da'an,* he finished in his mind.

******

	With a satisfied smirk, Dr. Morrison put his global inside his pocket.  His Taelon master was pleased with the information.  Suddenly, 
someone entered his lab.

"Dr. Morrison," someone said, "Finally I see you."

He turned, a serious expression on his face.  "General Philips.  Yes, I have been busy."

"Did you talk with Kramer?" Philips asked, interested.

"Yes.  Unfortunately, his information was worthless," he lied convincingly.

Philips looked disappointed and, after two or three disgusted words, he left the doctor alone.

Morrison followed him with a dark gaze and then grabbed some kind of remote control from his desk.  *I believe I know how to take 
care of Joshua Doors,* he thought, eyeing the device.  A moment later, he decided to go home.  It was very late and he had important 
things to do tomorrow.

******

	The next day, Lili arrived at Joshua's house.  Softly, she landed the shuttle in an empty place located at the other side of the 
street.  The Captain was supposed to take him to the Mothership, but she was curious.  Why did Zo'or have to see him so early in 
the morning?  She shrugged.  Anyway, this was a good opportunity to talk to him... to her friend.

With a smile, she rang the doorbell.  Almost immediately a happy Joshua opened the door.

"Lili!" he exclaimed.  "What are you doing here?"

She looked at him with a raised eyebrow.  "Hello, Joshua... Isn't that obvious?  I will give you a ride to the Mothership," she answered.

He cleared his throat.  "Of course you will.  Please, forgive me," he apologized.  "Hello, Lili.  Come in."

She shook her head.  "No.  I believe you are ready to go," she said.  "Besides, it is not good to make Zo'or wait," she teased.

At her name, he could not help but smile.  "Sure," he agreed.

"You really are in a good mood today," Lili noted.  *I wonder why, after all, he is going to see Zo'or,* she thought, curious.  *Maybe he is... 
dating someone...*

"It is a beautiful day," he said simply, closing the door and walking towards the shuttle.

With a shrug, she followed him.

They boarded the shuttle.  "We will arrive in ten minutes," Lili informed him.  "Ready to go."  Lili programmed the coordinates on the 
control panel and set the automatic pilot.  The craft departed.  Seconds later, she turned her seat to face him.  "So... what's her name?" 
she suddenly asked, her heart beating fast.

Joshua almost fell from the seat.  "What?!  Lili...  Why do you ask that?  I..."

"I don't know.  It's just that I have never seen you so... content."  She realized that she would not like the answer, but she had 
to know.

Joshua flushed and smiled.  "Well, I suppose that I cannot deny it,"  he said happily, not noticing Lili's sad gaze.

I was the one who asked, she thought, shaking her head.  *I guess we will remain friends... after all.*  "So, Joshua, will you tell me 
her name?"

His smiled widened.  "It is Sophie."

She blinked in surprise.  "Finally you found her."

"Yes and this time I will not let her go," he said more to himself than her.

"I am happy for you," Lili said sincerely, knowing how much he had suffered searching for her.

"Thank you, Lili, you are a good friend."

She grinned and turned to the controls again.  "We will arrive in one minute."

Joshua's heart started to beat faster.

******

	"Do you have any news?" Zo'or asked Agent Sandoval in a dangerous tone.  She was seated on her chair -inside her private 
chamber- her hands moving fast.

Unconsciously, Sandoval went a step back.

Zo'or slightly smiled.

"No, Zo'or, but we have focused the search over the Sahara Desert.  There was the last place the craft's signal appeared."

"In other words, you have not found anything since yesterday," the Synod Leader said, annoyed.

Sandoval cleared his throat.  "No, Zo'or," he said, expecting a rude reply from the alien.  To his surprise, Zo'or bowed the head 
and seemed to wilt.  

"You must find Tel'kar," the Taelon whispered.

"I... will," was all the startled Agent managed to say.  He had never seen Zo'or acting like that... so vulnerable.  Suddenly, he thought 
of Zo'or as a female.  He blushed.

As if reading his thoughts, Zo'or raised her head and met his eyes with a cold stare.  "Well?  What are you waiting for?" the Synod Leader 
asked dryly.

"Nothing... I... Immediately, Zo'or," the implant said, nervous.  Fortunately for him, in that very moment, Captain Marquette and Joshua 
Doors arrived.  Puzzled, Sandoval didn't miss the lawyers' eyes nor Zo'or's strange look at Lili.

"You may leave now, Agent Sandoval," the Synod Leader said.  "You too, Captain Marquette."

They did so, leaving Zo'or and Joshua alone.  She rose from the chair and walked towards the window, not daring to look at him.  She 
bowed her head, trembling.  "For reasons that I will not explain, this will be our last meeting," she said sadly.

He followed her and stood behind.  "I am not afraid of Tel'kar," he said seriously.

Startled, Zo'or turned to look at him and was taken aback by the deep sadness within his eyes.  "How--"  She sighed.  "It does not matter.  
Your life is in danger because of me.  I shall not see you again," she finished, losing her façade and facing the window again.

"I disagree," he said in a low voice.

"You do not understand.  Tel'kar is dangerous he--"

"No," Joshua interrupted her, wrapping his arms around her waist.  "You are the one who do not understand.  I will never leave you alone."

"Please, do not make this more difficult," she begged.

He raised his hands to her shoulders and, gently, forced her to face him.  "I will make it impossible," he whispered and pulling her closer, 
he kissed her.  (I will never leave you alone) Joshua repeated in her mind.  (Did I convince you?) he teased.

(Yes) she answered, sparkling brighter in his arms.

******

	Da'an stood before the closed door, not daring to enter.  Even though he knew how Susan felt about him, he wanted to respect her 
privacy.  However, he was worried.  It was past midday and she had not emerged from the chamber.  The North American Companion 
tilted his head and knocked.

"Come in," Susan answered immediately.

He opened the door and entered, but she was nowhere to be seen.

"I am here," she said from the bathroom, agitation in her voice.

Wondering the reason of her excitement, Da'an went there.  She was before the mirror, still dressed with her pyjamas, her hand on her 
stomach.  She turned to face him with shinning eyes.  "Good morning, Da'an," she greeted him.  "Look at me.  I am getting fat!" she 
exclaimed happily.

Da'an nodded, she was right, though he could barely notice.  He walked towards her.  "May I?" he asked.

"Of course," she said, gently taking his hand to her stomach.

He blushed blue, sensing the new little being that was his daughter... their daughter.  Abruptly, an overwhelming feeling reached to him, the 
deep love that Susan had for him and for the child.  Slowly, he withdrew his hand and looked intently at her, amazed that a being of a completely 
different species could love him so unconditionally.

"Did you feel her?" Susan asked with a grin, unaware of his thoughts.  "Da'an?"

He blinked.  "Yes.  She is incredible... like you."

She flushed and stroked her hair.  "Don't say that... you are exaggerating," she whispered shyly.

Amused by her reaction, the Taelon smiled.  "I am not.  I am just stating the truth," he contradicted her.

She flushed even more.  "I...  I have to take a shower," she said, abruptly changing the subject.

Da'an remained there, looking at her with a tilted head.

She lowered her gaze, embarrassed.  "Please, would you..."

"I will wait outside," he said politely, leaving the bathroom, a smile on his face.  Did she not know that he could see through her eyes?  
But he respected her too much to do that.  He closed their link.

Twenty minutes later, Susan emerged from the bathroom, dressed with jeans and a turquoise blouse.

Da'an was patiently seated on the armchair, still with a grin on his face.

"I am ready," she said, looking at him with a raised eyebrow.

He rose.  "Your lunch is waiting for you in the dining room."

"Thank you.  I am really hungry."

"That is because you ate very little yesterday," he said, concerned, walking towards the door.

Susan followed him to the dinning room.  Da'an allowed her to enter first.  She thanked him with a smile... and then she saw the food.  
She froze and closed her eyes.  The sharp pain on her stomach and a strong wave of nausea reached to her.  Suddenly, they were gone.

She opened the eyes to see Da'an standing in front of her, his glowing hands on her shoulders, his eyes deeply worried.  "This time you 
will see Dr. Belman," he said in a North American Companion's tone that did not permit a negative reply.

She just nodded, breathing painfully.


A few minutes later, Susan was laid on the examination table at the sick bay.  Dr. Belman smiled at her while approaching with 
a strange device in her hand, similar as a long needle.  The redhead opened her eyes wide, she did not like needles!

(Do not fear) Da'an mentally soothed her.  She slightly smiled.

"Don't worry, Susan," Dr. Belman said kindly.  "This will not hurt.  Just relax."  Slowly and carefully, Juliana introduced the needle 
in Susan's stomach.  "There you go.  Now, if you turn your head to the right, you will see a monitor."

Susan did as she was told and saw a black screen.

"Are you ready?" the Dr. asked.

"Yes."

With a grin, the Dr. moved her hands over the control panel.  The needle began to glow and something appeared on the screen.

Susan opened her eyes wide and Da'an blushed blue.  The monitor clearly showed the image of a sparkling fetus.

"She is beautiful," Susan whispered in awe.

Da'an placed a hand on her shoulder and nodded, a tender expression on his face.  Then he looked at the Doctor.  Is there any problem, 
Dr. Belman?" he asked, worried.

Juliana shook her head.  "No.  Nikki is in good health."

(Nikki?) the North American Companion thought to Susan, lowering his gaze to met hers.  

She just smiled innocently.

He tilted his head and met the Doctor's eyes.  "Why can't Susan even stand the sight of food?"

Juliana smiled reassuringly.  "As with any pregnant woman, Susan experiences metabolical and hormonal changes within her body, 
but in her case, they are violent and deeper."

"Deeper?" Susan asked, unable to hide her unsettlement.

"Yes, but don't be scared," the Dr. said.  "They started at the beginning of the fetus implantation.  That was the reason of your long nap.  
Your body was and will continue adapting... to certain Taelon requirements."

"Such as nourishment?" Da'an asked, gesturing with a hand.

"Yes," Juliana answered, while carefully taking the needle from Susan's stomach.

"What does that mean?" Susan asked, sitting on the table.

"In simple words it means that you are a human who needs Taelon food," the Doctor explained with a wink.

Curious, Susan looked at Da'an.  "Taelon food?"

He nodded and blushed blue, knowing that there was only one way to achieve that.

******

	"Do you want me to sit?" Susan asked incredulous from the doorway of the audience chamber.

"Yes," Da'an said, amused by her surprise.

She looked at him with a raised eyebrow.  "I don't want to offend you, but I don't like your chair."

Da'an smiled.  "I am not offended," he said, grabbing her hand and walking towards the throne-like chair.  "Do I have to beg you?" he asked 
seriously.

She rolled her eyes.  "Of course not.  I will sit down."

"Thank you," he said, knowing that she was doing so for him.  "Relax and close your eyes.  I will do the rest."

With a last look at him, she laid back on the chair and closed her eyes.
Da'an stood by her side and, waving a hand, he activated the energy stream.

To Susan's surprise, the chair took a horizontal position.  Immediately, she felt how a strange energy started to impregnate her body, f
eeding her.  She sighed in relief, for the firs time in two weeks, she felt really comfortable, physically relaxed.

(You can open your eyes now)  Da'an thought to her.

She did so and, startled, she stiffened on the chair, almost kneeling.  She was surrounded by a sparkling blue mist, her long hair floating 
softly over her.  He heart beat faster, scared.  She was alone!

(Do not worry.  I am right here) Da'an whispered in her mind.

She turned her head and saw him standing at the right side of the chair, in his true Taelon form.  She smiled.

(Why did you not tell me that you were feeling so uncomfortable?) he asked, concerned.

(I didn't want to disturb you) she answered with her gaze on her lap.

(That will never happen) Da'an tenderly thought to her.

She raised her eyes and looked intently at him.  (From now on, I will always trust you.  I promise you that.)

Unable to say a word, Da'an knelt and raised a hand, offering his palm.  With loving eyes, Susan joined her hand with his.  Immediately, 
the sharing began and they could deeply feel each others love... surrounded by a sparkling energy stream and by Susan's red hair.

******

	Liam had spent the whole night and part of the morning tracing the signal left by Tel'kar's shuttle.  He was sleepy and tired, but satisfied.  
He had discovered a strange energy pattern.  The only problem was that he had not been able to identify it.  He rose from his desk and began 
to pace.  An idea occurred to him.  *Perhaps Da'an knows what this energy means.*
Without losing time, he went his way to the audience chamber.

	Minutes later, a confident Liam entered the audience chamber, freezing at the sight that greeted his eyes.  His jaw fell open in amazement 
and fascination.  He knew it was rude to stare, but he could not turn his gaze away. Before him, two figures were under the energy stream.  
One was partially seated on the throne-like chair and the other was knelt on the floor.  They were joined by the hands, surrounded by a blue-red veil.
Suddenly, the being that was on the floor turned his gaze to face him.  The other being stiffened and bowed the head.  They lowered their hands.

Liam flushed, knowing that he had interrupted a very special moment.

Da'an waved a hand and closed the energy stream.  He regained his human appearance as Susan's hair slowly fell over his shoulders.  She smiled 
and strapped her hair in a ponytail.  Da'an rose and so did Susan.  She looked at Liam and blushed, embarrassed.

"I will leave you alone.  I have to finish something for Joshua," she said.  Then, she walked towards the exit and stopped before the protector, 
meeting his eyes.  "Liam, you should knock before entering into a room," she said, half joking, half serious.

The young hybrid flushed even more.  "Please, forgive me," he apologized, staring at his feet.

She smiled and patted him on his arm.  "Don't worry... just keep my advice in mind," she said and with a last glance at Da'an, she left the chamber.

Da'an followed her with his blue gaze and sat on the chair, blushing at its warmth... Susan's warmth.  "I do believe that you have a good reason to 
be here, Liam," the North American Companion said, annoyed by the interruption, but amused by the Major's reaction.

Liam cleared his throat and raised his eyes.  "Of course, Da'an.  I need you to see a strange energy pattern I have discovered."

Da'an tilted his head, curious.  "Have you downloaded it in the data stream?"

At Liam's nod, the Taelon activated the data stream and saw what his protector wanted to show him.  Da'an blushed blue.  "Are you sure these are 
the energy waves?"

Liam nodded again.  "Can you identify them?" he asked, seeing the alien's reaction.

"They belong to an energy stream.  Contact Agent Sandoval.  You should focus the search in this kind of signal."

"Yes Da'an," Liam said and, after making the salute, he turned to leave.

"And Liam," the North American Companion called him before he had reached the door.

"Yes, Da'an?"

"Good job."

Liam blushed and smiled.  "Thank you, Da'an."

	Once alone, Da'an sighed in relief.  Now there was a way to find Tel'kar.  Then he looked at his hand and relived the sharing in his mind.  He 
wondered how he -who belonged to such a threatening species- could be loved by someone like Susan.  He lost his façade, also wondering when 
he would be able to tell her the strong feelings that no Taelon -he knew- had experienced in a million years...  No Taelon but Zo'or... and himself.

******

	Susan returned to her room and sat behind the desk, a wide smile on her face, still feeling Da'an's essence in her mind.  A moment later, 
she shook her head and started to work in Joshua's stuff.  *I have to finish this if I want to see Josh in the afternoon.  I have things to tell him and I 
bet that he has news too,* she thought happily.

******

	Following Da'an's orders and his own common sense, Liam contacted Sandoval.

"Major Kincaid," Sadoval said, concerned.  "May I assume that you have important information?"

"Of course," Liam said, a satisfied smirk on his face, sending his discoveries through the global link.

"What do these energy waves mean?" the implant asked.

"Da'an has identified them to be from an energy stream.  I traced them over the Sahara Desert," Liam answered, a little bit proud.

Sandoval opened his eyes wide and smiled, vanishing his expressionless mask for a second.  "Good work, Major Kincaid.  Remain in the 
Embassy.  I will send Captain Marquette."

Liam nodded and closed the link.  He laid back on the chair and allowed himself a moment to think of what he had witnessed in Da'an's 
audience chamber.  *Can it be that Taelons and humans are meant to be together?*  True, Susan carried Da'an's child, but he knew that the 
Taelon felt attracted to her.  In fact, Liam was almost sure that Da'an -in spite of his Taelon nature- was in love with her.  He wondered what 
could have had happened if he had not interrupted them.  Flushing at the thought, he shook his head.  *Enough.  As Da'an would say, it is not 
my business.*

******

	After closing the link, Sandoval sighed in relief.  Now he had good news to tell Zo'or.  That was, of course, if the annoying Joshua Doors 
stopped bothering with his demands.  *I don't understand how Zo'or has enough patience to be with him--*
He blinked in surprise.  A ridiculous answer slipped in his mind.  Immediately, he used his CVI to vanish the stupid thought.  
*I am sorry for Doors, but this cannot wait.*  A second later, he left the Mothership's bridge and hurried to Zo'or's chamber.

******

	"Do you feel better now?" Joshua tenderly asked her.

"I am always fine when you are with me," Zo'or answered, still in his arms.  Then, she met his eyes.  "Please, do not go.  Stay here with me. 
It is safer."

"You know that I cannot do that...  no matter how much I want it," he said rather sadly.  There is something that I don't understand, though.  
Why are you so afraid of Tel'kar?" he asked.

Zo'or stiffened and left his embrace.  She turned to the window and bowed her head.  "Because he is like me.  He used to be one of my 
supporters, he shared my ideas towards humanity," she explained in a whisper.

"You should say that you were like him," he said.

She faced him again.  "Do not fool yourself, Joshua.  In spite of my feelings for you, I am still a threat to your kind..."

"No," he gently interrupted her, "you have changed, it's just that you have not realized it," he said.

Taken aback by his words, Zo'or looked intently at him.  (You are wrong) she thought to him.

(No, deep inside, you know that I am not) he answered.

She sighed, knowing that, as stubborn as he was, he would not change his mind.  How can love blind that much?  She shook her head.  
(Stay with me today, please) she repeated.

(I am so sorry) he thought to her.  (I have to go... but not now.)

Feeling her concern, Joshua stroked her head in a reassuring way.  "Don't worry," he said aloud.  "There is no way that Tel'kar could 
learn about us."

"I hope that you are right," she whispered, sparkling brighter at his touch.

****** 

	Agent Sandoval arrived at Zo'or's private chamber and, to his surprise, the door didn't open.  Being joined by the Commonality, 
Taelons never locked doors, even the ones of their own chambers. After a little of hesitation and not being able to do another thing, he knocked.

"Enter," a cold voice said.  

The door opened and Agent Sandoval entered.  Zo'or was seated on the chair and Joshua Doors respectfully stood before the Taelon.  
However, the implant couldn't help to notice that the hands of the alien were trembling and that Representative's face was slightly red.

"What is that you want?" the Synod Leader asked in a warning tone, as if saying If-it-is-something-stupid-you-are-dead.  Even Doors 
gave him an annoyed look.

The Agent cleared his throat, knowing that for some odd reason, he really was not wanted there.  "Major Kincaid has found a sign of 
Tel'kar," he informed the alien.

Zo'or blushed blue and smiled dangerously.  "Good.  Do I need to tell you that I want him captured, right now?"

"Of course not.  If Tel'kar is in the Sahara Desert, he will not escape."  Then he looked at Joshua Doors.  "If you want to return to Earth, 
this is the moment to do so.  Captain Marquette will leave you at the Washington Embassy--"
He abruptly stopped.  If looks had been able to kill, he would have fallen dead right there at the glare Zo'or gave him.

"Of course," Joshua agreed, quickly standing between the Taelon and the implant.  

Immediately, Zo'or's gaze softened.

"Zo'or, do you understand that, as we were so rudely interrupted," Joshua said and stoped to give a quick glance to Sandoval, "we will 
have to continue our meeting tomorrow."

To Sandoval's surprise, the Synod Leader blushed blue.  "Yes, I do.  Be here early, we have many things to discuss," Z'or answered in a 
soft voice.

The Representative nodded and turned to a speechless and frozen Sandoval.

"Are you all right?" he asked the attaché.

Sandoval composed himself and gave him an annoyed look.  He made the 'Taelon salute' and left the chamber, followed by Joshua Doors.

	Once alone, Zo'or activated the energy stream and tried to relax.  The news was good, then...  Why was she so nervous?  Why did she 
have such a dreadful feeling?  She was worried, humans were so frail...

******

	Sandoval and Joshua joined Lili at the shuttle bay.

"Well, It seems that I am destined to be your driver today," she teased Joshua.  He smiled and climbed into the craft.

The annoyed Agent cleared his throat.  "Captain Marquette, report to Major Kincaid and Da'an.  Then join the search team on the Desert.  
We are looking for the energy stream's waves.

"Understood," she said and seeing his serious face, she looked strangely at him.  "Are you feeling well, Sandoval?" she asked.

"I am fine," he said with a smirk and turned to go to another shuttle.

	Lili shrugged and boarded her ship.  She gracefullly moved her arms over the controls and the craft departed.  As she had done in 
the morning, she programmed the automatic pilot and turned to face her passenger.  She looked at Joshua with a raised eyebrow.  "You 
know, Joshua, I am in front of you, thinking, and I really can't get it."

"What do you mean, Lili?" he asked, puzzled.

She smiled.  "You have been the whole day in Zo'or's presence and you are happy, almost... glowing.  You look as if you have spent the 
day with... with your Sophie."

To Lili's astonishment, Joshua stiffened on the seat and flushed furiously.  "It's just... that... I am a happy man, Lili," he managed to answer.

"Sure," she said suspiciously and realizing that she would not be able to get another word from him, she turned her seat again.  
*What's happening?  Why are they acting so strange?  First Liam, then Augur and now Joshua.  Hey!  Even Sandoval  seems different.*  
She smiled mischievously.  *Well, when all this Tel'kar thing is over, I will have a little talk with certain genius,* she thought.  "Two minutes 
to arrival, Joshua," she informed him.

******

	*This is ridiculous,* Susan thought, annoyed.  *I cannot concentrate.  Every time I blink I see his eyes!*  she shook her head, a dreamy 
smile on her face.  *Not that I mind, though.*  A few minutes later, realizing that there was no point in staying in her room, she went to her 
favorite place in the whole Embassy, the garden.

******

	Inside the audience chamber, Da'an smiled, amused with Susan's annoyance.  It had not been his intention to... monopolize her thoughts, 
but... did she not know that she had the same effect in him? He tilted his head and rose from the chair.  He walked towards the virtual glass 
window and soon his gaze was drawn to the garden.  He blushed blue, she was there, standing near the roses.  He decided to allow himself to 
forget about Tel'kar for a moment. With a grin, he turned and left the room.  

******

	Carefully, Susan touched one white rose and smelled it.  (This is a rose, Nikki) she thought to her daughter.  Feeling Nikki's awe, Susan 
smiled.  In a foolish movement, her finger was hurt by a thorn and a drop of blood fell over the rose.  (It's okay) Susan mentally soothed the child, 
taking her finger to her mouth.  (You have to sleep now, little one) she whispered tenderly.  (You are tired).  With a last giggle, Nikki fell asleep.

(Do you like roses?) a voice asked in her mind.

She turned, knowing that Da'an would be there.  "I love them," she answered.

Da'an smiled.  (You have to take care of yourself) he thought to her, gently holding her hand between his own.  After a moment of concentration, 
the wound was healed.

"Thank you," she said.

Da'an nodded.  "Is Nikki sleeping?" he asked, still holding her hand.

"Yes, she--"  Susan opened her eyes wide.  "Did you say Nikki?"

He tilted his head.  "I thought that that was her chosen name," he said innocently.

To Da'an's delight, Susan smiled fondly.

******

	Once in the Embassy, Lili and Joshua met Liam in the shuttle bay.

"Lili, Mr. Doors," the young hybrid greeted them and gave a strange look at the lawyer, unable to vanish the image of Zo'or and Joshua from his mind.  
He shook his head.  "Da'an is in the garden, Lili.  He could explain better the situation to you," he said and turned his face to Joshua.  "Come with 
us, surely Susan is there too."

"Thank you, Major," Joshua said.

They went to the garden and when they arrived, Da'an and Susan stood there, in a tender embrace.  
*Oh God!  Not again,* Liam thought, flushing.  Lili's jaw fell open and a knowing smile appeared on Joshua's face.

******

	(Thank you for accepting her name).  Susan thought to him.

Da'an gently pulled her back and held her by the shoulders.  (Do you not know yet that I cannot deny you anything?)

She met his eyes, a sad expression on her face.  (Then promise me that you will not send me away) she whispered in his mind.

Da'an blushed blue, feeling her sadness.  (As long as you are safe, you will remain here) he said after a while.

She smiled, but could not hide her distress from him.

(Everything will be all right, Susan.  That, I can promise you) he soothed her.

(I believe you.  And Da'an, you too should know that I cannot deny you anything... you just have to ask) she shyly thought to him.

Da'an tilted his head and fixed his gaze upon her, trying to figure it out what she had meant.  Suddenly, she stiffened and walked a step back. 
 Immediately, Da'an knew the reason of her agitation.  Liam, Captain Marquette and Joshua Doors were watching them from the other side of the garden.

(Would you mind if I lock your protector on his room?) she asked, slightly annoyed.

(That would be inconvenient) he answered seriously, then he made a gesture to the three of them.

They approached.  An embarrassed Major Kincaid cleared his throat, not daring to meet Susan's eyes.  "Da'an, Lili... I mean Captain Marquette 
needs information about the energy waves and Tel'kar.  He is--"

"We will discuss that inside," Da'an interrupted him, feeling Susan's growing fear.

Liam knew the reason.  "Of course Da'an," he agreed.

After a kind smile at Susan and a nod to Joshua, the Taelon walked towards the building.
Liam grabbed a startled Lili by her arm and followed him.

******

	Once alone, Joshua softly patted his friend on the back, a wide smile on his face.  "Sorry, Carrot head, it appears that we arrived in a 
very bad moment."

Susan blushed.  "Don't call me like that!" she exclaimed.  Then, she smiled and looked at him with a raised eyebrow.  "I believe that you have 
many things to tell me."

This time it was his turn to blush.  "Yes.  Why don't you go with me to my office?  I could call Francis and he would be here in a few minutes with the 
limousine."

"Sure," she said happily.  "I would love to go."

(Please, take care of your self) Da'an suddenly thought to her.  

She blinked in surprise.  (Don't worry.  I will be with Joshua the whole time, but if you ask me so, I can stay here.)

(No, that will not be necessary.  Just return soon)

(Of course.  Don't you know that I don't like to be far away from you?) she finished.

Joshua gave her a knowing look.

Embarrassed, she stroked her hair.  "Well, what are you waiting for?" she asked.

With a grin, Joshua took out his cell phone from his pocket and called the driver.

"It is set.  Francis will be here in thirty minute."

"Good.  Let us seat on that bench, near the roses," she suggested.

"Are you tired?" he asked, concerned.

"No, Josh," she said kindly.  "I just want to sit and talk with my friend.  Come on," she finished, grabbing his hand and walking towards the bench.

******

	Outside of Joshua's office, Francis -the driver- boarded the limousine and noted a briefcase in the copilot seat.  *Again Mr. Doors forgot 
something,* he thought, shaking his head.  *He is a good boss, but sometimes, I believe that the man is living on the moon.*  
He smiled and fixed his tie.  *Miss Bluestone will be there too!*  A moment later, the vehicle departed.

******

	On the other side of the streat, Dr. Simon Morrison waited inside his car.  When he saw the driver entering the limo, an evil grin appeared 
on his face.  He grabbed a remote control and followed the vehicle.

******

	In his secret base, Tel'kar sat on his chair and relaxed.  Slowly he opened his mind to find a particular Taelon, Zo'or.  He did not want to 
miss the Synod Leader's reaction when receiving his greeting card.  *This will be... amusing,* he thought.  *Poor Zo'or, he will suffer...*  Then he 
tilted his head.  *Or should I say she?*  He laughed and, waving a hand, he activated the energy stream.

******

	Exactly thirty minutes late, Francis arrived to the Embassy... and so did Morrison.

Francis got out of the limo and went to greet his passengers.  "Mr. Doors."

"Good evening, Francis," Joshua said.  "Look who is here."

"Nice to see you again, Miss Bluestone."

She smiled.  "It's nice to see you too, Francis."

A second later, they boarded the vehicle.

******

	With an evil look, Dr. Morrison -who had parked his car at the other side of the street- pushed a red button of the remote control.  
He regretted the presence of the redhead.  Surely Tel'kar would get mad, but there was nothing to do to change the situation.  He 
shrugged.  *Five minutes to go, Mr. Doors,* he thought, a satisfied smirk on his face.

******

	They were about to leave, when Susan remembered something.  "Please, wait," she said.  "I forgot my coat.

"One of this days you will forget your head," Joshua teased.  "Come on, I will accompany you to get your coat."

Francis chuckled.

After shooting them with a warning look, she descended from the limo.

"We will be right back," Joshua said and then followed her.

Francis rolled his eyes and then he remembered the briefcase.  With a sigh, he grabbed it and hurried after his boss.

"Mr. Doors," he called the lawyer.

"Yes, Francis?" Joshua asked, turning around.  Curious, Susan stepped by his side.

"Sorry to interrupt you, but you forgot your briefcase," the driver said, giving him the item.

Joshua took it and eyed it carefully.  "This is not mine," he said, shaking his head.

"Where did you find it?" Susan asked Francis, an unsettling feeling in her heart.

"Inside the limo.  I assumed it belonged to Mr. Doors."

"Well, this is the first time I have seen it," Joshua said.

Suddenly a strange noise came out from the briefcase, like a beep.

Susan went white.  "THROW THAT THING AWAY!" she yelled.

Sharing her thoughts, he threw the briefcase away with all his strength.  "TO THE FLOOR!" Joshua shouted, pulling Susan with him.

******

	With wide, terrified eyes, Dr. Simon Morrison saw the bomb flying towards him.  *OH SHIT!*

******

	Inside the building Da'an was giving the last instructions to Lili and Liam, when Susan's overwhelming fear reached to him.  He lost his façade.  "NO!"

"Da'an, what is it?" Lili and Liam asked at the same time.

A loud explosion answered their question.

	After realizing that Susan was unharmed, Da'an regained his façade.  "Liam..."

"I am on my way," the young hybrid said seriously, leaving the chamber with Lili in tow.

******

	Onboard the Mothership, Zo'or collapsed on her chair.  *JOSHUA!* she desperately yelled in her mind.

Minutes later, she contacted Da'an and was surprised to see his dark glare.  "Our worst fear has become a reality," she said, blushing blue and trembling.

"I know," he said, trembling too.  "I will not let him harm her, no matter what."

Zo'or's gaze mirrored his own.  "Neither will I allow him to harm Joshua, but there is something I do not understand."

Da'an softened his gaze and tilted his head.  "Please, elaborate."

"If Tel'kar knows about my relationship with a human, why he has not informed the Synod?  He must know that I would be forced to leave the l
eadership," she said in a low voice, unable to hide her fear... and anger.

Da'an raised a hand.  "Tel'kar is Taelon no more.  He is consumed by hate.  He prefers to... kill what we love most, instead of gaining our leadership."

"He is insane," Zo'or agreed.  Then she sighed.  "I wish I could go to the Embassy immediately, but I must explain the situation to the Synod."

"That is the wisest course of action," Da'an said.  "I will give the proper assistance to Joshua Doors."

With a thankful nod, she closed the stream.

Joshua, she thought, feeling sad beyond belief, for not being able to be with him in that very moment.  Abruptly, her thoughts were interrupted by a 
cruel laughter, back in her mind.  (You will pay for this!) she thought angrily.  A second later, Zo'or contacted the Synod, hoping to finish the 
meeting as soon as possible.

******

	Once he had closed the communication with Zo'or, Da'an lost his façade again and bowed his head.  Yes, he thought sadly.  *I will 
protect Susan and Nikki... no matter the sacrifice.  I will not be able to give her the only thing she has asked from me.  I know what must 
be done, but not now, she needs me... and so do I--  Tonight.* Regaining his human appearance, he rose from his chair and hurried to the sick bay.

******

	Below the Sahara Desert, a dangerous Taelon savored his revenge...

	*This is interesting,* Tel'kar thought, amused and pleased by the recent events.  True, Doctor Morrison had failed in killing Joshua 
Doors and -fortunately for him- in killing the redheaded woman.  The Taelon's eyes glowed in anticipation.  He had something better than pain 
or sorrow, he had their fear.  

******

	After the danger was over, Joshua released Susan and rose from the floor.  "Are you all right?" he asked her, worried.

She forced herself to smile and removed the hair from her face.  "I am fine, Josh, but your arm..." she noted, concerned, indicating the blood.

"Oh, this is just a little wound," he said, while helping her to stand.  Then, he helped a terrified, but unharmed Francis.

She looked at his arm and, after seeing that he was fine, she nodded and bowed her head.

Joshua held her with his good arm.  "Hey, don't worry, nothing is going to happen."

She raised her head and looked at him with hopeless eyes.  "You don't understand, Josh.  I believe that Tel'kar was responsible of this attempt.  
What if Da'an decides to send me away in order to protect me?"  She sighed and continued.  "I will not stand separation.  That's what really 
scares me," she finished in a whisper.

Remembering his last conversation with Zo'or and unable to say a word, he just held his friend tightly.

	In that moment, Lili, Liam and a group of guards arrived.

"Are you okay?" Liam asked.

"Search the area, Liam," Lili said.  "I will take them to the sick bay."

The Major nodded.  "Over here," he ordered the guards."

******

	When they got to the infirmary, Da'an was already there.  Without a word and not caring about the spectators, he embraced Susan, 
who was slightly trembling.

(You are safe now) he soothed her.  (I will keep my promise.  Everything will be all right)

She just smiled, forgetting all the fear for the moment.

	Dr. Belman and Lili smiled dreamily.  Joshua gave them a knowing look, wishing that he could be with Zo'or, and Francis... just fainted.

Dr. Belman blinked in surprise.  "Poor man," she said and ordered one of her assistants to help him.  Then she turned to Joshua.  
"Come on boy, let me see your arm.  I believe that Susan can wait."  She guided him to another room.  Lili and a nurse followed them.

******

	Oblivious to what was happening around them, Da'an just kept holding Susan in a tender embrace... as if it were the last time.

Suddenly someone cleared her throat.  He released her.

"I am sorry to interrupt you," Juliana said with a grin, "but I would like to run some test on Susan and Nikki."

"Of course," Da'an agreed.

"Don't worry, Susan," the Dr. said.  "This time I will not use needles."

The redhead smiled and then looked around.  "Where is Joshua?" she asked, concerned.

"He is with Lili in the other room.  Patricia is taking care of his arm.  Nothing to worry about," the Doctor. answered.

******

	"Thank you," Joshua said to Patricia, after she had healed the wound.  A second later, he rose and began to walk to the door.

"Hey!  You must say there," Lili said.

He smiled mischievously.  "Come on, Lili, you know me better than that.  I am fine."

"Sure," she said with a raised eyebrow, following him.

******

	"Well, that's all.  Both of you are fine," Doctor. Belman said kindly.  "You only need to relax."

"Thank you, Doctor," Susan said.

"Now you should rest," Da'an suggested her, his fingers moving fast.

She stood up and smiled.  "Please don't worry.  You heard the Doctor, we are okay," she said, placing a hand on her stomach.  
"I am safe here... with you," she finished, emphasizing the last words.

He blushed blue, but did not say anything.

"What happen?" she asked, turning serious, a cold feeling in her heart.

Da'an tilted his head and place a hand on her shoulder in a reassuring way.  "Nothing happens.  Why do you not rest.  Do I have 
to order you?" he teased her.

Susan looked at him with a raised eyebrow.  "You can't order me anything.  I don't work for the Companions," she said mischievously.

"Beware, Da'an," someone interrupted them.  "Susan can be really stubborn."

"I have already notice that," a bemused Da'an said, knowing that in spite of her teasing tone, she meant what she had said.  She would 
not accept orders, not even from him... and that made things more difficult.

She stiffened and turned.  Joshua and a chuckling Lili were there.  "Joshua!" Susan exclaimed relieved.

The lawyer approached his friend and the Taelon.  "I am all right," he said.

Susan smiled widely.

The North American Companion smiled too and withdrew his hand.  "Susan, you should rest now," he insisted.

"Da'an is right," Joshua agreed seriously.

Susan tilted her head and place her hands on her waist.  "What about you, Josh?  You need to rest too."

"That is a good suggestion," Da'an said to Joshua.  "Major Kincaid will take you to your residence, with the proper security, of course."

"Thank you," Joshua said.

Then the Taelon turned to Lili.  "Please, Captain, escort Mr. Doors to the exit."

"Yes, Da'an," she said with a grin.

After a last hug to Susan and a nod to the alien, Joshua followed Lili out.

	"Now I will escort you to you room," Da'an said to Susan in his North American Companion's tone.

"All right," she agreed with a smirk.

Da'an smiled back and, after saying good bye to the doctor, they left the sick bay.

A few minutes later, they stood before Susan's room.  She opened the door, but did not enter, instead she turned and faced him.  
"I want you to know that this is where I want to be... with you.  Please, don’t--"

He blushed blue and gently placed a finger on her lips.  "You and Nikki are tired.  Please, go to sleep now."

She sighed, knowing that he would not change his mind.  "Okay.  Good night Da'an."

"Good night, Susan."

With a last smile, she entered her room, closing the door behind her.

Da'an remained there for a few minutes and then returned to the audience chamber.

******

	"Thank you, Major Kincaid," Joshua said, once they had arrived to his house.

"Don't mention it," Liam replied," and remember, there will be thirty Companion's Agents watching over your residence, so don't worry.  
You will be safe here.  You know... sometimes is good to have friends in high places... and I am not talking about Susan," he finished 
with a mischievous wink and left the place.

Joshua blushed, wondering if Da'an's protector knew about his relation with Zo'or.  He sighed.  *If only you were here...*  He shook his 
head and entered his house.  His arm began to hurt.  *I better go to sleep, before it gets worst,* he thought.

******

	Onboard the Mothership, once the meeting was over, Zo'or contacted Agent Sandoval.

"Yes, Zo'or?" he asked, a tired expression o his face.

The Synod Leader looked at him through the corner of the eye, wondering when had been the last time her implant had had rest.  
With a shake of her head, she vanished the thought.  Since when had she cared about the face of her attaché?  "Agent Sandoval, 
return to the Mothership.  I will be waiting in the shuttle bay."

	Ten minutes later, Agent Sandoval arrived and met Zo'or in the shuttle bay.  He didn't have time to descend from the craft, the 
Taelon boarded it immediately.

"Take me to Joshua Doors' residence," she ordered.

"Pardon me?" Sandoval asked, not daring to believe his ears.

Zo'or looked at him.  "You heard well, Agent Sandoval.  Do I have to repeat myself?" she asked with a smirk and a hint of threat in her voice.

The implant cleared his throat.  "Of course not," he answered.  Then he nodded to the pilot and the shuttle departed.

******

	Joshua laid on his bed, but he could not sleep, his arm hurt... and he missed her too much.  Suddenly, he heard the noise of a 
shuttle leaving interdimensional mode and, a second later, the bell of his door.  *Surely Major Kincaid had forgotten something,* he 
thought, a little bit annoyed.  With a sigh, he rose from the bed and went to open the door.

******

	Zo'or stood alone before the closed door -as she had ordered Agent Sandoval to remain aboard the shuttle- her delicate hands 
moving fast.  *Why does he not open the door?* she thought nervously, feeling Joshua's pain.  At that very moment, the door opened.

"Zo'or!" Joshua exclaimed.  His face lit up.

"May I come in?" she asked softly.

"Of course," he quickly answered, holding her hand.  "Please, have a seat," he invited her.

She sat and bowed her head.  "I am so sorry," she whispered.  "I feel your pain and your concern.  I--"

"No," Joshua gently interrupted her, sitting by her side.  "Don't you know that I prefer to die that live a life without you?"

Slowly, Zo'or raised her head and met his tender eyes.  She placed a hand on his injured arm.  "Among all humans, you should 
know what I have done.  How can you love me that much?"  She concentrated and a faint glow emanated from her hand.  A moment 
later, the pain of Joshua's arm disappeared.  She withdrew her hand and rose from the seat.  "I shall leave now, so that you can rest," 
she said sadly, walking towards the door.

"Please wait!" Joshua exclaimed, grabbing her hand.  "I... I do not... want you to go," he said, flushing.

Startled, Zo'or turned to face him, losing her façade at the intensity of his thoughts.  They made her feel... strangely... alive.  They were 
overwhelming.

He released her.  "Sorry... I..."

"Joshua," she said, sparkling nervously, "your thoughts are confusing... but I do want to stay," she finished, unable to vanish his thoughts from her mind.

Gently, Joshua stroked her head.  (Are you sure?) he whispered in her mind.

She glowed even brighter.  (All I want to do is to be with you.)

He smiled and kissed her tenderly.

(Why do you want to go to your room?) she asked in his mind a couple of minutes later.

He looked at her with an amused expression.  (Follow me and you will understand) he answered, holding her hand and guiding her to his chamber.

(Some human traditions are... intriguing) Zo'or thought to him.

He just smiled mischievously and closed the door behind them.

******

	Sandoval stood on the street, right out of Joshua Doors' house.  Even though Zo'or had ordered him to remain in the shuttle, he had descended.  
He was really in a bad mood, tired for the lack of sleep and annoyed for have to be there instead of being at the Sahara Desert, searching for Tel'kar.  
He sighed.  *I don't understand why Zo'or has to come here.  This is ridiculous, the Synod Leader in--*  His thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a 
blue light that came from one of the windows.  The curtains were drawn, but he could clearly see the shades of two beings... joined in an embrace.  
Sandoval's jaw fell open.  Now he knew the reason! He just remained there, frozen, until the blue light started to fade.

******

	Da'an was seated on his chair, waiting for Liam's arrival.  Deeply worried and nervous, the Taelon could not stop the movement of his hands.  
Suddenly, a strange, intense sensation reached to him. He tilted his head and slightly smiled.  He had been right, Zo'or was not able to deny 
anything to Joshua Doors.  Then he lowered his gaze, knowing that he and Susan would never get that close... not if he dared to carry on his 
plan... and that was precisely his chosen path.

A few minutes later, Liam arrived.

"Liam?" Da'an prompted.

"I have left Joshua Doors safe in his house.  I will join Lili and Sandoval in the Desert, but I need to check on something first," he answered.

Da'an bowed his gaze.  "Thank you, Liam."

"Are you all right, Da'an?" Liam asked, noticing the Companion's sad demeanor.

"You may leave now," Da'an just said.

With a last look at the Taelon, Liam left the chamber.

	Once alone, Da'an activated the data stream.  De'lan's image appeared.

"Are you sure that you want to continue with this?" De'lan asked, worried.

"Yes," Da'an answered with a voice full of resignation.  "The only way to protect Susan and the infant is to separate them from me.  To 
accomplish that, she must believe that I... I do not care anymore.  That is why I need your help."

"I understand," De'lan said and then tilted his head.  But do you think that this is the best for Susan... and for you?"

"That will save her life.  It does not matter how I feel," Da'an stated.  "Will you help me?"

"Of course," his friend answered with a smile.  "I will be glad to receive Susan in my new facility."

"Thank you, my friend."

After the salute was made, Da'an closed the stream.  It is time, he thought sadly.  With a sigh, he rose and went his way to Susan's chamber.

******

	Silently, he opened the door and entered.  He could not suppress a smile at the sight of a sleeping Susan.
He sat on one of the armchairs and remained there, the whole night -unnoticed- watching over her sleep.
One hour before dawn, he rose and approached her.  He tenderly stroked her hair.  (Please, understand why I am doing this) he quietly 
thought to her, knowing that she would suffer... and, maybe, she would hate him.  Then, feeling for a last precious time her presence in his 
mind, he severed the link, vanishing all mental contact between them.
Silently, he left her chamber.

******

	Augur abruptly woke up from an interesting dream of Lili.  He had heard a strange noise.  He turned on the lights... to see Liam, watching 
at him, a smirk on his face.

"You know, Augur," the Major said in a mocking tone, "you should do something about your security."

"What are you doing here?" the genius asked, annoyed.

Liam turned serious.  "Please, Augur, I need you to trace these energy waves," he said, showing his friend a global link.

Augur shook his head.  "Return tomorrow morning.  I need my beauty sleep.  If you want to please your alien is your problem."

"It's not for me... it's for Susan," Liam said.  He had already guessed Da'an's intentions.

"Susan?" Augur asked, suddenly interested.  He still felt guilty for what had happened to her.

"Yes.  I am afraid that Da'an will make a terrible mistake with her," the young hybrid explained.

"What are you talking about?"

Liam shook his head.  "It doesn't matter.  Will you help me?" he finished with a lost puppy look in his eyes. 

"Augur sighed and rose from his bed.  "Okay, okay, give me what you have."

Liam smiled and lent him the global.  The genius grabbed it and downloaded the information in his computer.  "What are these strange waves?" he 
asked.

"They are originated by a Talon energy stream.  I want you to locate the exact source below the Sahara Desert.  Use the same coordinates Lili gave 
you before."

Augur nodded.  "No problem, but it will take a day.  I can't do it in less time, sorry."

"Do it.  Thank you, Augur."

"Yeah," he said.  "Now go home and let me sleep."

******

	The next day, Susan woke up with a dreadful feeling in her heart.  Something was different, she was... alone!  Desperate beyond belief, she 
realized that all that was Da'an had vanished from her... all, except Nikki.  In vain, Nikki tried to comfort her, to assure her that everything would 
be all right.Grief-stricken and annoyed, Susan shook her head.  *What have you done, fool Taelon?* she yelled in her mind, throwing to the floor  
the polar bear Joshua had given her.  *You should have asked me first.  Don't you know that I cannot live without you?* she finished in a whisper 
and burst into tears.  Once she had no tears left, she rose from the bed, grabbed her clothes and went to the bathroom.

A couple of hours later, feeling hungry, she decided to leave the room.  When she opened the door, she found Agent Lassiter with a raised hand, ready 
to knock.

"Miss. Bluestone," he greeted her.

She composed herself and managed a smile.  "What can I do for you?" she asked.

He grinned.  "Da'an asked me to escort you to the sick bay.  He said that you will be able to fulfill your requirements there."

A cold feeling ran through her body and, for a moment, she considered not to go.  S