TITLE: The Dance 2: Temptations

RATING: PG-13 for innuendo

SUMMARY: John and Aeryn crash land on a remote planet and meet an ex-PK Officer who presides over an Eden-like city. He is handsome and charming and John fears his offer to Aeryn includes more than just refuge.

DISCLAIMER: Awwww, you guys know the drill by now

ARCHIVE: Please ask

FEEDBACK: Never enough!

NOTES: /KOREN/ Many, many, many thanks to my beta-readers, Jenny, Ann, Becca, and Elyssa (well, you were *almost* a beta-reader, if the email'd cooperated!) . Most of all, many, many thanks to my wonderful writing partner Sharon, who helped make this story a reality. (Albeit a slightly late one.) Oh, and keep in mind that this takes place *right* after my story, Separations, all of which is prior to A Bug's Life and Nerve. So, no Scorpy yet, no chip, no chair, etc. John's still *really* sane. ;o) (And yes, we started writing this *LONG* before LatP, so the visual similarities or any scene similarities are *JUST* coincidence! I swear!)

*pries mic from Koren's hand*

/SHAR/And my thanks to my ever faithful Ace Beta Girl, Joy, and my writing buddy, Steph, for their feedback, comments and never-failing support.

by Koren Miles and Sharon Shoji

"Level it out, Crichton!"

"I *am* Aeryn... but it takes me a second."

"It takes you too long." She switched the read-outs back to her screen, effectively wrenching control of the Prowler away from him.

"Damn it, Aeryn! Give me the controls back!"

"Not until you can do it faster …"

"But I can't learn to work the controls any faster unless you let me work with them. The whole idea here is for me to practice."

"Well, this lesson is *over*," she snapped. "We're too far out from Moya anyway. I can barely pick her up on my screen."

"Fine. Whatever. Do whatever you want. But if you don't want to teach me, why bother dragging me out here?"

He was fuming. Ever since his near miss with that "wrinkle in time" a week ago, and their subsequent argument on the terrace, she'd been giving him the cold shoulder, but she still insisted on training him in the transport pods and the Prowler. And it seemed like the only things she ever said to him were either orders or criticisms. The gentle banter and "creative discussions" that used to characterize his flight lessons were gone.

"You need to learn this. It could save lives later, yours and everyone else's."

He crossed his arms over his chest and stared straight ahead. They were going to have to get this out of their systems soon; he could feel it. But now wasn't the time. He wanted to be able to look her in the eye when he finally called her on it.

She waited a moment for his retort, and when there was none, she focused back on the controls. The turbulence in the area was getting progressively worse the longer they were out here, and she couldn't keep down the jittery feeling in the pit of her stomach.

The first hit blind-sided them both. The Prowler reeled from the impact and went spinning.

"What the hell was that?" John yelped.

She began running through all of her sensor read-outs. "We're coming up on a meteor shower. You'd better hang on, it's going to get worse before it gets better..." She attempted to navigate between the larger chunks of rock, but couldn't even begin to avoid the smaller ones. Something struck the underside of the Prowler, puncturing one of the engine casings.

"Frell!" She looked around for a planet, a moon, anything she could set them down on. "Scan the area, find something with a breathable atmosphere. We're going to have to set down somewhere."

The screen in front of him shimmered to life as she reinstated his controls. It only took him a few seconds to zero in on a green planet, but he couldn't judge the distance. "Aeryn, upper left hand corner of your screen."

"I see it. I think it will work." She banked hard to the right to avoid another large rock, then started weaving through the debris toward the planet. He didn't even breathe until they punched out on the other side of the storm.

~ 2 ~

"So, how are we going to get out of here?" John leaned back against the stone cliff and shaded his eyes to look at Aeryn.

"How should I know? You're the "scientist"." She waved her hand in the general direction of the damaged Prowler.

"Oh yeah. This is all *my* fault. You were the one who took the controls, Miss 'I'm A Decorated Pilot with The Pleisar Regiment'!" He pushed away from the wall and stepped closer to her.

"And I suppose you could have done better? If you'd been flying we'd probably be dead by now!"

"Right. We're not dead, we're just on an unknown planet, no one knows where we've gone, and I'm stuck here with *you*!"

"As if I'm any better off!"

He stood almost toe-to-toe with her, waiting to see who would throw the first punch.

"Forget it." He slumped against the wall again. "It's not worth the energy to argue. Whoever's fault it is, we're stuck here, and I don't think that Zhaan and the others are going to be able to find us by our beacon. It looked like it was fried from the trip through the atmosphere."

Aeryn didn't exactly relax, but she shifted to a slightly less aggressive stance. "If they can't home in on the beacon..."

"They'll still be able to find us, eventually. They had an idea where we were headed."

"So what's the problem?" She was still glaring at him.

"The 'problem' is that it may take them several days to find the planet we're on. We need to find water and food." He watched as she absently rubbed her forehead and grimaced. "And shade. You're getting too hot aren't you?" All the anger drained out of his expression and he took a few steps toward her.

She pushed away his hand when he tried to touch her face. "I'll be fine, Crichton. Let's just get on with it. Water sounds like a good idea right about now."

~ 3 ~

As he ran his hand appreciatively over the luxurious fur, the Traltex shifted and raised it heads to glare at him.

"Now, settle yourself," he said, leaning back to activate the containment field. He gazed possessively at the unusual creature. "You have no idea how special you are, do you? One of a kind. The last of your species."

He checked the various monitors and when he was assured that the habitat was functioning perfectly, he turned to stroll along the length of the room. He carefully looked at each piece on display -- leaning in to examine the surface of a rare manuscript or stopping to adjust a color shift in a light refraction tapestry. Only when he was satisfied that everything was perfect, did he step back to gaze at them all.

"A collection rivaled nowhere else in the galaxy," he said smugly.

He walked over to his latest acquisition. The statue was small, but the form was so detailed and lifelike that it appeared to be caught between one breath and the next. "Perfection," he murmured, running his hand down the side of her face. The stone was startlingly smooth and warm to the touch. "If only you existed outside my dreams. "

He looked up as he heard a soft chime from the outer door. His dark eyes flashed at the interruption but he quickly composed his handsome features as he walked into the vestibule and palmed the lock open.

"Please pardon me for disturbing you, sir," a young man said, bowing his head. "We have observed a small craft make an unplanned landing in the Lower Quadrant. There are two survivors who appear to be Sebaceans. I thought you would want to know."

"Sebaceans?" he repeated, arching an eyebrow in surprise. "By all means, send a transport to pick them up. I will be down shortly to personally welcome our new guests."

He glanced over his shoulder to assure himself that the door to his gallery was locked, then stepped out into the hallway.

~ 4 ~

"Pilot, have you been able to locate them?" Zhaan asked urgently.

"Perhaps. The meteor debris they encountered temporarily obstructed my sensors, but I think I have found where they landed." He pulled up another screen as his other hands continued to move rapidly over the control panel.

"I *told* Aeryn she was wasting her time, taking Crichton out," D'Argo growled as he paced back and forth. "It is useless to attempt to teach him something as complicated as piloting a Prowler. Why does she have to be so frelling stubborn?"

Zhaan turned to stop him with a calming hand on his arm. She knew his gruff manner hid his concern for their two friends. "There are serious issues they need to resolve between them. I was hoping that they would be able to do so, away from us."

D'Argo paused and tilted his head. He had kept his confidence over the incident involving John and Aeryn in the shuttle when they'd been caught in the Flax....

"No," Zhaan said, interrupting his thoughts. "I don't know what you and Aeryn keep between you. But after seeing her reaction to losing John in that time slip, and what she went through when we went through Starburst without him, it's obvious she is having problems dealing with her feelings for him. And this, they must solve on their own."

"I have them!" Pilot said triumphantly as he tapped out the coordinates. Suddenly, his eyebrows shot up in surprise. "They are moving across the planet's surface-- and not by foot!"

~ 5 ~

"I still don't like it," Aeryn hissed, keeping her voice low. "We have no idea who sent this transport or where it's taking us."

"No, but we're out of the sun and heat and on our way to someplace where we have the possibility of contacting Moya." John glanced at the back of what he estimated to be the head of their driver. Like Pilot, it appeared to be part of the vehicle but unlike him, it was without any recognizable facial features and had not communicated with them other than opening the hatch to the vehicle in obvious invitation.

At a small sound from Aeryn, John turned to look at her. Her eyes were closed and her breathing labored but as soon as she felt his gaze, she snapped a glare at him.

"I'm fine," she said shortly.

He nodded but reached over to squeeze her hand. Her face softened for a moment, but she slipped her hand from his grasp and pointed ahead.

John let out a low whistle. As the transport crested the sandy rise they found themselves looking out over a wide valley, rich with foliage and dotted with clusters of white buildings. In the center was a structure that made him think of the Space Needle in Seattle. As the vehicle approached, they could see a small group waiting to greet them at its entrance. They all moved forward as the transport came to a halt and the hatch opened.

Stepping out of the transport, Aeryn tensed as a tall dark haired man detached himself from the others and approached them. She frowned, trying to place him, then suddenly, a name clicked.

"Commander Reich!" she blurted in astonishment.

A smile lit his handsome features as he shook has head. "No, I am a Commander no longer. But by your attire and your recognition of me, I must surmise you are a Peacekeeper."

"Ex-Peacekeeper." John said abruptly, stepping out of the transport to stand beside her.

"Ah. A kindred spirit then," he said studying Aeryn with interest. "And how have you traveled here? Our planet is far too remote to be reached by a Prowler alone."

"We have a ship-"

"Which we need to contact," John added. "And can we get out of this heat?" He slid a glance at Aeryn. The fine tremors in her hands were still there.

"Of course." He gestured toward the building and they fell into step beside him. Turning to John he smiled politely. "My name is Merritt Reich and on behalf of our small society here, I welcome you and offer any assistance we may be able to provide."

"Thanks. I'm John Crichton and this is...."

"Aeryn Sun, Sir," she interjected with a crisp nod of her head.

Merritt looked at her. She conducted herself as though she was still on a carrier... indicating, he thought, that her apparent defection was involuntary. 'It should prove to be an interesting story,' he mused, and one he greatly wished to hear.

"You mentioned a ship," he prompted as they entered the cool shaded interior. He paused as Aeryn stumbled slightly and noted the way John immediately moved toward her… then backed away as she caught herself.

"I'm sorry," he said contritely, looking at Aeryn's flushed features. "So many questions when you are both obviously in need of water and rest."

He motioned with his hand and an odd assortment of aliens moved quickly to his side. "See that they are made comfortable in my personal guest rooms." he ordered.

Turning back to John and Aeryn, he inclined his head graciously. "After you are refreshed, I would be honored if you would join me for a meal."

"The honor would be ours, Sir," Aeryn said quickly, her back straight and her manner respectful.

"Yeah. Thanks," John mumbled, frowning slightly as he looked back and forth between them.

As they were escorted from the hallway, Merritt stared thoughtfully after them. "Most intriguing," he murmured to himself.

~ 6 ~

The servants led them down a corridor with the same vaulted ceilings and pure white walls of the rest of the compound. Two of them gestured Aeryn into the first room as the others continued down the hallway, only to stop in confusion when John abruptly turned back and followed Aeryn.

He looked around her room. Like the rest of the place, it struck John as elegant, palatial and pristine. And it set him on edge. Or, more accurately, Merritt set him on edge. There was something about him....

"So, how do you know this Merritt guy?"

Aeryn turned from a side table where the aliens were setting out food and water. "He was an excellent soldier and a brilliant tactician," she said, picking up the water container. "Some said he would be the next captain of the Shintah, the highest ranking vessel in the armada."

John stopped his circuit of the room "He's a *Peacekeeper*!?!? Aeryn-"

She silenced him with a glance, jerking her head at Merritt's attendants who stood quietly watching them.

"Would you like some water?" she asked, pointedly changing the subject. At his nod, she poured two cups and handed him one, turning to smile her thanks at the aliens. "We are fine. Do not let us keep you from your other duties."

The small group bobbed their heads and returned her smile, then quickly left the room.

"He disappeared five cycles ago along with the ship of colonists he was transporting," Aeryn continued as soon as the door shut behind them. "Some said... there were rumors that he had defected."

"And he ends up here. And we just happen to run into him. Great. Just peachy."

"He won't report us to High Command. He can't. If he's here, like this, then he's in as much danger from them as we are."

"Something about him is off Aeryn. I don't know what, but we can't trust him."

"Are you suggesting that we don't take the opportunity to contact Moya?"

"No,...but we should be careful what we say. What we do, and how much of our story we tell him. That's all I'm saying."

Her eyes narrowed slightly, a retort on the tip of her tongue. But before she could say anything there was a knock at the door. John walked over to open it, surprised to find a young Sebacean boy standing there.

"I've been asked to escort John Crichton to the Communications Center and when Aeryn Sun is ready, to bring her to meet with Merritt in his Command Room."

"Tell him that we'll both be glad to talk to him after Aeryn's had a chance to -"

"I'm fine, Crichton," Aeryn said, joining them. She turned to the boy. "I will come with you now. I don't wish to keep the Commander waiting."

John shot her a look, half worry, half glare as she left the room with them. If she wants to be reckless and irrational, so be it, he thought gritting his teeth. He was tired of dealing with her in this mood.

~ 7 ~

When they reached the Communications Center, John asked for a secure line. A flicker of irritation crossed Aeryn's face and the young boy gave him an odd look but complied without question. John thanked him and waited until he and Aeryn left the room to turn on the monitor. Zhaan's image shimmered quickly into view and he explained briefly what had happened.

"So that's the sitch. This guy, Merritt, seems to be the head honcho down here. I'm willing to take bets that the other Sebaceans I've seen around this place are the colonists he was guarding. He's asked us to have dinner with him tonight. Maybe we'll find out more then."

Zhaan regarded John's image on the viewer. "Do you think we can trust him?"

"Yes and no. I don't think he's got any connections with the PK top brass anymore... but something about him's off."

"What does Aeryn think?"

"That he walks on water."

Zhaan frowned in puzzlement. "That he walks... how -"

"Never mind Zhaan. She admires him. She likes him. At least that's what it seems like."

"I'll see what we can find out and get back with you. And you might consider asking him about trading for supplies," she added. "There are several things we're running low on."

"Sure Zhaan. I'll talk to you later."

As John blinked out of sight, she turned to D'Argo.

"Well?"

"I don't like it."

"Pilot, see what you have on a Commander Merritt Reich. He should be in the Peacekeeper database."

"Already doing so. I'm sending the records of his service through to your panel."

~ 8 ~

"Commander...."

"We are all on a first name basis here, Aeryn," he said warmly, rising to greet her. "So please call me Merritt."

Aeryn nodded hesitantly as she stepped into the room. Her training was so deeply ingrained that even though Merritt no longer wore a command uniform, she instinctively responded to the authority in his tone and demeanor.

"Your timing is perfect. I was just about to have a drink." He made a small movement with his hand and his two assistants began gathering up stacks of datapads.

"I'm interrupting...." she began, stepping aside as they hurried past her.

"Not at all, Aeryn." He walked over and sat down on a couch angled to face a transparent section of wall that looked out over the entire valley. "Come sit with me and enjoy the view," he coaxed, picking up a tall dark bottle and two tiny wooden boxes from a side table. As he filled them with a smoky golden liquid, he glanced up and watched in amusement as she sat down stiffly on the far end of the couch, her back straight and her hands flat on the top of her thighs.

"I didn't expect you to come see me so quickly - you probably didn't even have a chance to refresh yourself."

Aeryn glanced down in alarm at the dirt and grime on her clothes. "Excuse me, Sir. I didn't mean to present myself in such a state...."

Merritt frowned in exaggerated irritation. "Is my name too difficult for you to say?"

"No, Sir. I mean, Merritt, Sir... ah, Merritt."

"That's better," he said, moving closer to hand Aeryn one of the small box shaped cups. She flashed him a self-conscious smile, then looked down curiously at the drink in her hand.

"It's a Delvian Liqueur called Omayshu," he explained. "It's served in these special wooden boxes to enhance the flavor."

She raised the edge of the box to her lips and immediately dribbled some of the liquor onto herself.

"I'm sorry," Merritt exclaimed snatching up a napkin and leaning forward. "I should have told you to drink from a corner of the box." He lightly dabbed the droplets that clung to her skin at the edge of the scooped neckline.

Aeryn shivered slightly at the cool touch of his fingers as they inadvertently grazed her skin. She darted a quick look at his face, but he had already turned to pick up his drink.

"Just hold it like this," he said, turning the cup so that he could sip from a corner. Aeryn watched, then cautiously followed suit.

The spicy aroma was rich and strong and the small box captured the fumes, filling her nostrils with a heady mixture of heat and sweetness. The liqueur itself was so fine that it practically evaporated on her tongue, leaving her to wonder momentarily if she was actually swallowing anything. She closed her eyes, sighing as the soothing liqueur warmed her body. And for a brief moment she flashed on a memory of strong arms around her and the comforting warmth of that embrace...

"Aeryn? Are you feeling all right?"

Abruptly, she opened her eyes to find Merritt leaning close to her, worry shadowing his face.

"You look flushed," he said, taking the cup from her hand. "It would seem the heat has affected you more than you realize."

"Yes, I'm sure that's all it is, " Aeryn muttered, giving herself a mental shake.

"Well then. Perhaps this would be a good time to show you around a bit," he said, taking her elbow and urging her to her feet. "There is a garden with a private pool on the way to the dining hall. I think you might enjoy relaxing there until we have dinner. You did learn to swim during training, didn't you?"

Aeryn grimaced at the memory. "If you consider being thrown into a tank of cold water and expected to swim or drown, training."

Merritt laughed softly as they walked out into the hallway. "Peacekeeper training is effective but often too focused on the results instead of the process."

"But the process is what determines a person's ability."

Merritt shook his head. "The process should determine a person's *potential*."

They walked in silence, Aeryn considering his words.

"At each level you advanced to, there were fewer and fewer classmates with you, correct?"

Aeryn nodded

"Did it ever occur to you that rather than raising you up, they were actually boxing you in? That focusing your training on a particular aspect of your ability was making you better in that area at the cost of limiting you in other areas?" He glanced over to see her frown thoughtfully as she walked alongside of him.

He placed his hand lightly at the small of her back to guide her down a side hall and as they rounded a turn, she couldn't help but stare in amazement.

The riot of colors and scents was startling. Aeryn walked slowly into the small garden, gazing about in fascination at the strange array of flowers and plants. "I've never seen anything like these," she said, reaching out to lightly brush her hand against a stalk of tiny white star-shaped flowers. They shimmered as they released a sparkling cloud of sweet fragrance.

"Those are Balimese Shooting Stars," Merritt said, coming up behind her. She started slightly as she felt him lean close.

"They're ... lovely," she said awkwardly, edging away. She turned to find Merritt staring at her.

"I don't know who you're running from, Aeryn" he said softly, noticing her shoulders suddenly tense, "or what you've done, but I want you to know that you're safe here. And your companion as well."

"He's not my companion. We're just shipmates."

"I see," Merritt murmured, breaking off a stalk of flowers.

"He has no claim on me," she added defensively.

Merritt looked up, raising an eyebrow. "Forgive me. It appears my inquiries have given you offense. I did not mean to pry into your personal matters on such short acquaintance."

Aeryn flushed and bit her lip. "No, I'm the one who should apologize, Sir. I should be..."

"Calling me Merritt, not Sir," he finished with a smile. He gestured to the pool ahead of them. "Why don't you relax here while I go see to a few things? Dinner won't be for another arn. I'll send someone to get you."

As he stepped back, he glanced down at her torn and dusty pants. "May I also have her bring you some fresh clothing? "

"Yes. Thank you ... Merritt."

He inclined his head as he handed her the stalk of white flowers. "I look forward to getting to know you better, Aeryn."

She nodded and smiled tentatively. "I'll see you at dinner."

~ 9 ~

"Thanks, Zhaan, I'll keep that in mind. Gotta go." John quickly cut the connection to Moya as Merritt entered the room and walked toward him.

"I imagine your crewmates were relieved to know you and Aeryn are safe and well."

John nodded. He didn't know which he found more irritating - the Sebacean's sleek good looks or the casually familiar way in which he used Aeryn's name.

"Aeryn decided to relax in the garden until dinner," Merritt offered.

John clamped his jaw tightly. Nope, he thought to himself, it's definitely not Merritt's looks that piss me off.

"The repair crew has finished their work on your Prowler," Merritt continued. "Would you like them to refuel it? I know you are anxious to leave."

"Actually, I'm not," John drawled, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning against the console. "We're low on supplies right now. I was hoping you were up for some bartering."

Merritt gave a small shrug. "We are a small society here. Our needs are few."

"Needing and wanting are two completely different things though, aren't they?" John remarked. He smiled to himself as he saw a flash of interest ripple across the man's smooth features.

"Although I must warn you about some of the things we've, uh, *acquired* over time." He pushed off from the communications console and stepped closer to Merritt as he dropped his voice. "A few of them, due to their uniqueness, did not exactly exchange hands legally."

Merritt cleared his throat, feigning disinterest. "You take a great risk by keeping such incriminating cargo on board," he commented evenly.

John looked down, suddenly interested in brushing off a speck of dirt from the front of his black tee shirt. "Yeah, well it's not like we can sell or trade this stuff to just anyone."

"Because of the, ah... nature of the items?"

John slanted a measuring glance at Merritt from beneath his lashes.He had to give the man credit for knowing how to keep a poker face.

Raising his head, he looked around the room, noting how Merritt unconsciously edged closer. Lowering his voice to a whisper, he asked, "Have you ever heard of a Hynerian jewel that is so sensitive to heat, it can change color if you just breathe on it? And if you hold it..."

"It produces a state of unparalleled euphoria."

"Oh," John said, frowning slightly in disappointment. "You've seen them before."

"Them?" Merritt repeated in a startled voice. He caught himself and quickly composed his expression. "I have heard of such jewels," he admitted. "But never of even a single one leaving the secret vault of the Dominars of Hyneria."

John shook his head. "That's the problem with things like that. Sure, they're cool to look at but you can never show them off. Hell, you couldn't even let anyone know you have one. What good is that?

"On the other hand, " he continued with a grin, "we have a few Delvian brandies and some very unusual custom elixirs as well as a number of other things I don't know well enough to describe. Maybe my friends can bring them down tomorrow for you to look at?"

"Excellent," Merritt said, clasping his hands together. "We seldom have guests and this would be the perfect excuse for me to have a celebratory dinner."

"Well, if you're having a big dinner tomorrow for everyone, Aeryn and I won't impose on your hospitality tonight too. Now that the Prowler is repaired, we'll just leave right now and come back in the morning with the rest of the crew."

Merritt made a small, irritated sound. "I didn't get the impression that Aeryn was in any hurry to leave."

"And I didn't get the impression that she wasn't," John countered.

The two men looked at each other in silent appraisal.

"Well, I believe that's for her to say," Merritt finally said, giving him a small smile. He turned and summoned a nearby Sebacean. "Matta, this is John. Please see if we have the supplies that he needs. Then if he wishes, show him the way to the dining room."

John nodded his thanks and watched as Merritt left the room. Turning to Matta he smiled. "After we finish, could you show me the way to the garden instead?"

~ 10 ~

Aeryn eased herself into the clear pool. The water was warm and felt soothing to her tense muscles. She glided away from the edge and slowly stroked her way across, sighing with relief as she stretched her body and pushed against the resistance of the water. Turning onto her back, she floated with her eyes half-closed. The soft hum of nearby insects and the quiet rustle of the trees lining the pool gave her a feeling of timeless serenity. She continued to float, letting the water carry her gently along the shaded bank.

A large blossom fell onto her from an overhanging tree, startling her momentarily. She smiled as she scooped it up and brought it to her face. The scent was light but curiously familiar. She inhaled deeply, closing her eyes as she drifted from underneath the shady tree. The bright sun warming her face unconsciously brought to mind the feel of her cheek, resting against a shoulder, alien in its warmth but inexplicably comforting.

"I'm losing my frelling mind," she muttered, suddenly opening her eyes and staring at the blue-green petals. She tossed the flower angrily onto the mossy bank and began swimming hard. She crossed the length of the pool several times, each time slicing her arms through the water and fiercely kicking her long legs until she finally collapsed at the water's edge, gasping for breath.

"Why does everything keep coming back to John," she whispered raggedly, leaning her forehead against the cool moss as she tried to catch her breath. "Why does he affect me like this? Is it him? Or is it just me?"

Pushing off from the bank, she rolled onto her back again, letting the warm water hold her as she floated. The same feelings that had once driven her to NamTar bubbled up again. The fear of loss, and of loneliness ate at her.

"It would be so easy to be here," she murmured. "And where else do I have to go? The others have homes and families."

She thought of John's offer to take her to Earth but immediately discounted it. If she went there with him, she'd never truly belong. And how soon would he tire of her ... tire of having to explain everything, to translate everything... and how long would *she* be able to stand it?

She abruptly opened her eyes. No. She could never live like that. Neither could he. And then there was Pilot and Moya, and Moya's baby. She realized suddenly just how much she'd begun to think of the great ship as her home and as her friend. Frowning, she swam to the shallows and stood, reaching up to slick her hair back.

~*~

He could only see a glimpse of her through the overhanging foliage, but what he saw stopped John dead in his tracks. Her back was to him and she was only partially out of the water, but her dark hair clinging wetly to her shoulders and the gleaming curve of her back made his hands ache to feel the smooth coolness of her skin.

Hearing someone approach, he quickly stepped behind a wide tree. One of the aliens who had escorted them to their rooms appeared with a towel and a bundle of neatly folded clothes. She and Aeryn exchanged a few words and she waited patiently as Aeryn dried herself and dressed. Then they left together.

John turned and leaned back against the tree.

"John, you are one sorry-ass excuse for an idiot. She ignores you, argues with you and insults you. She gets mad and stays mad and won't even give you a hint as to what's wrong. You know you should just forget her…"

He closed his eyes and pictured her again and this time it was his whole body that ached for her.

"Oh hell!" he swore, slamming his fist against the rough bark.

He opened his eyes as something softly hit him. Looking up, he watched as another large blue-green flower floated down from an overhead branch and landed at his feet. Stooping down, he smiled as he picked it up.

"I guess it's time to find out if Sebacean females can be courted. After all, at this point, what have I got to lose?"

~ 11 ~

"Ah, there you are," Merritt said as John entered the dining room. "We were wondering if you were going to join us."

"I stopped to look at the garden you mentioned," he said, sitting down next to Aeryn.

"I found this." John brushed the fragrant flower against her cheek, then placed it in her hand. "I thought you might like it."

"That's a Soren Tree Flower," Merritt commented, leaning forward to take it from Aeryn. He sniffed it and frowned slightly. "Not one of my favorite fragrances, but the tree itself is strong and vigorous."

He set the flower down on the table and watched as Aeryn slanted a glance at John and then started to reach for it. "I'll have someone bring you a stalk of those Balimese Shooting Stars you like so much," he said smoothly, sweeping the Tree Flower from the table and dropping it onto a nearby serving tray.

"And now that John has joined us, we can start dinner." He raised his hand and immediately a group of servers appeared and began setting down a variety of dishes. "Excellent! I see we have my favorites tonight," Merritt said enthusiastically. "I hope you enjoy them."

He laughed as Aeryn jumped when the contents of one of the dishes moved and undulated as she tried to scoop out a spoonful. "It's a Scorvian delicacy," he said.

"Well, I think I'll leave it to the Scorvians," she retorted with a smile, reaching for something more familiar. She glanced at John, suddenly aware that he was looking warily at the various dishes.

Merritt watched as they exchanged a glance and she nodded imperceptibly. Then Aeryn began to fill her plate, but Merritt noticed that each dish she served herself from, John followed suit. His eyes narrowed thoughtfully. She had been so adamant in denying any relationship with him, that he had assumed it to be true. But the more he saw them together, the more he wondered how strong their apparently unconscious connection was.

"I see you are adventurous in your tastes," he commented, as Aeryn helped herself to some of the more unusual dishes. "Rather surprising, considering your strict training."

"Just one of those bad habits she's been getting rid of lately," John interjected.

Aeryn shot him a glare, but before she could respond, Merritt startled her by agreeing.

"'Bad habits' is an excellent description." He sat back in his chair and looked at Aeryn. "We continue to hold ourselves apart from other species. Why?" Merritt shrugged. "No one has ever been able to give me an explanation that makes any sense. It's just always been that way and will continue to be that way until we start breaking out of that narrow way of thinking."

"So that's what you're doing here?" John asked cautiously. The man spoke in an open, friendly, enthusiastic manner about his community, but it was beginning to sound *too* perfect. And like his father always said, 'If something seems too good to be true….'

"Look around," Merritt said expansively. "The majority are Sebaceans, but we have a variety of species here and are open to even more. Everything we do from our architecture to our agriculture embraces the knowledge and experience of all."

"Sounds like Paradise," John said lightly. He continued to eat as Merritt proudly expounded on his philosophy and the success of his colony. But the look of admiration on Aeryn's face as she listened, soon put a damper on his appetite.

He sighed and wondered what it would take to get a look like that from her. Hell, he thought, I'd just like her to stop being mad at me. He snuck a glance at her, thinking how beautiful she looked, sitting in the soft light, the thick waves of dark hair spilling over her shoulders onto the rich burgundy tunic. His eyes traveled down her back and he found himself thinking of her, rising out of the pool, the water streaming off of her body....

"John?"

He blinked his eyes and looked at Merritt who was staring at him expectantly. He turned to Aeryn and saw her frowning in irritation.

"What?" John said indignantly.

"Merritt asked you a question," she hissed.

"Oh, well, *excuse me* for not hanging on every word he says!"

"John, stop it..."

"No, *you* stop it!"

"Crichton!"

"Oh, so it's Crichton now?"

"Perhaps you would like to finish this discussion in private," Merritt said pointedly, rising to his feet and causing them both to do the same. "John, I will talk to you tomorrow and we will make arrangements to load your supplies and discuss terms." Turning to Aeryn, he smiled down into her face. "I'll see you later tonight and we can continue our conversation."

Nodding at them both, he walked out of the room.

"Continue *what* conversation?"

Aeryn took a deep breath and turned to John who was staring at her, a stormy expression on his face.

"None of your business."

John grabbed her by her shoulders and pulled her toward him. "The hell it isn't!" he said roughly, trying to keep the anger and desperation out of his voice.

For a brief moment she hesitated, her eyes searching his face and John thought he saw a flicker of ... something ... then she shrugged his hands off and stepped back.

"We are shipmates," she said flatly, her face and eyes carefully neutral. "I owe you an explanation if and when that is affected."

"Aeryn..."

"I'll talk to you tomorrow." Turning on her heel, she left without a backward glance.

John sighed heavily. He walked out of the dining room and paused in the hallway to take in the serene surroundings and pleasant murmur of voices. The various aliens passing by, all acknowledged him with a friendly word or nod and he found himself reluctantly comparing the safety of a life here with their fugitive life on Moya.

"A choice between living in the Garden of Eden or life on the run with possible capture and death at the hands of an insane Peacekeeper Commander."

John turned and walked glumly toward the garden. "And the survey says...?"

~12~

Night on the planet was briefer than John was used to, and it was well into the morning when one of the ever-present servants wakened him. While he dressed, the girl laid out a light breakfast and when he sat down to eat she politely excused herself.

He was glad to see that breakfast at least looked somewhat familiar, since Aeryn wasn't there to give him pointers. A light colored porridge and a rainbow of fruit seemed safe enough… and it was certainly more appetizing than food cubes. He was on his second helping of the porridge when his door chimed.

"Come in," he called.

The door slid open and the boy who had shown him the communications room entered. "Merritt sent me to inform you that your friends are scheduled to arrive shortly, and to show you to the landing area."

"Thanks." John took one last drink of the rich blue fruit juice and stood up. "Lead on."

~*~

The landing area was made of the same white material as the rest of the buildings, and the sunlight reflected sharply off of it. John had to shade his eyes to get a look around and wished, not for the first time, that he'd had a pair of sunglasses with him on the Farscape. As his eyes adjusted to the light, he started to take in his surroundings.

Two figures appeared across the compound and as they approached, he could make out Aeryn's dark head close to Merritt's, listening attentively. And as she turned and smiled at something he'd said, John felt a sudden twinge of jealousy run through him.

"John. Good morning," Merritt said pleasantly, as they walked over to him.

John nodded, trying to ignore how Aeryn stayed at Merritt's side.

"We were hoping we weren't too late to meet the transport," Merritt continued.

"Nope," John replied shortly, mentally giving thanks that Merritt hadn't said something about being late because they'd overslept.

Merritt looked as if he were about to say something else, but was interrupted by the rapidly approaching transport.

Before it even landed, John began striding toward it. D'Argo was the first one out, followed closely by Rygel, Zhaan, and...

"Chiana?" John said in surprise.

She tilted her head and smiled coyly at him. "Miss me?" As she looked past him toward Merritt her smile widened. "And who is *that*?" she purred.

Zhaan frowned at her. "You promised to behave, and to stay with D'Argo while we're here."

Noticing D'Argo's grimace, John grinned. "Got the short straw, huh?"

"I do not know about straws," he growled. "But my patience is surely short." His hand shot out and grabbed Chiana's arm as she tried to sidle past them.

"I was just wanted to introduce myself to our host," she pouted. As Merritt and Aeryn approached, she turned and smiled warmly at him.

"Hello. Welcome to our community. I'm Merritt Reich."

Zhaan's sharp eyes caught the darkness that shadowed John's eyes when the man spoke as well as the curious fact that Aeryn stood close to Merritt, instead of him. Making a mental note to speak to John later, alone, she stepped forward and nodded graciously.

"Greetings. Thank you for your hospitality. I am Zotoh Zhaan, and this is General Ka D'Argo, His Excellency Dominar Rygel the XVI, and Chiana."

Rygel hovered past Zhaan to Merritt. "You said something about trade negotiations?"

"Yes, of course your Excellency." He gestured to the pile of containers nearby. "We have already assembled those supplies that John said you were in need of. You may begin loading them whenever you wish." He turned back to Rygel. "If you would accompany me, your Excellency, we could discuss the terms?"

He paused briefly to whisper something to Aeryn and she gave him a little half smile and a brief nod. Then he led Rygel away.

"That guy makes my teeth hurt," John grumbled. Zhaan put a gentle hand on his arm, but Aeryn shot him a warning look.

"Aeryn, why don't you and D'Argo begin loading the supplies while John shows me more of this place?" Zhaan smiled serenely.

~13~

John took Zhaan through the main areas of the compound, then led her to the gardens. For a while they walked in silence, Zhaan taking in the variety of life around her.

"It's very beautiful here."

"Huh? Oh, yeah, it is," John replied absently. Zhaan stopped and looked intently into his eyes.

"What is it about this place that bothers you so much, John?"

He looked away from her gaze and clenched his jaw, trying to decide the best way to explain. Noticing a nearby bench, she sat down and held out her hand to him, drawing him down beside her.

"This community, the way the people treat Merritt - it's a lot like something I've seen before, on Earth."

She looked at him quizzically, silently asking for a further explanation.

"There was a man once, named Jim Jones. He was incredibly charismatic, just like Merritt. People followed him, listened to him, and loved him, just like the people here."

"What happened to them John?"

"He decided that it was time to "move on", and ordered all of his followers to drink poison. They did it… happily. They even gave it to their *kids*. They all died."

"And you are afraid Merritt will do this?"

"Specifically that? No. I don't know. Maybe." He scrubbed his hands over his face and abruptly stood up. "But he's got that kind of charisma, and that type of devotion from the people here." The last came out in a bitter tone.

And suddenly Zhaan understood. "And from Aeryn. That's what's really bothering you, isn't it? That she might choose to stay here with him."

One of the strongest, and in some ways most amazing, things he'd gained on this long strange trip was his friendship with Zhaan. Ever since he'd arrived - and especially since they'd shared Unity - she seemed to have an uncanny knack of getting him to see the heart of his problems.

"I can't lose her Zhaan. Not to someone like him. He looks at her as if… well, like he looked when I told him about some of Rygel's jewels. And that scares the shit outta me. Because it seems like she idolizes him."

"And you feel you can't compete?"

"I'm not even sure if I should."

Zhaan remained silent, watching sympathetically as he struggled to explain.

"You want to go home to Delvia. D'Argo wants to go home to his son. Rygel wants his throne back. But Aeryn doesn't have anywhere to go back to. Maybe this is her place. Her chance." His heart was breaking as he said it, Zhaan could see it in his eyes. She stood and took his hands in hers.

"I saw Aeryn's reaction when she thought you were dead." Tilting her head, she looked up into John's eyes. "And I see a little of that in your eyes now."

She smiled gently. "It's not my place to intrude upon your relationship with Aeryn. But what you share with her…how important you've both become to each other…can you honestly give that up without a fight?"

~ 14 ~

Chiana moved quietly down the hall. She smiled as she recalled how easy it had been to slip away from D'Argo. All she'd had to do was continually place herself underfoot as he and Aeryn loaded the supplies. When D'Argo had finally lost his temper and bellowed at her to get out of the way, she'd made a face and turned on her heel, retorting that she'd go help John and Zhaan.

On the pretext of looking for them, she'd made her way into the main building. Once inside, her story had changed to searching for Rygel and Merritt. A helpful alien passing by had directed her to a more private part of the building and as she walked, her eyes moved appreciatively over the rich wall coverings and the priceless art displayed everywhere.

"If there was ever a man to hook up with, this is the one," she murmured to herself. Suddenly she paused, her slim body stiffening. She stretched out her neck and slowly swiveled her head from side to side as she sensed people approaching.

While most Nebari had an innate awareness of others, Chiana had learned that without the dictates of conformity, her ability had blossomed into a talent for sensing the emotions of those around her. A talent that had served her well as she learned to survive on her own.

Darting into a side hallway, she flattened herself against the smooth wall. She held her breath, concentrating on the jumble of emotional images she sensed from the approaching group.

"Rygel," she snorted softly as she easily picked out his signature from the others. There was no mistaking the Hynerian's strong feelings of //greed/self-importance//.

Suddenly she shivered as she felt a sharply clear and coolly focused flash of //determination/ambition//. It was so unemotional that it made her feel oddly on edge and she shifted uneasily. She tried to concentrate on it but it slipped away as Rygel began speaking.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Merritt. I can honestly say I have never had such succulent Marjools."

"I was assured they were of the highest quality, your Excellency. I am pleased to know I was not cheated."

Peeking around the corner, Chiana watched as Rygel paused and brought his hover throne to eyelevel with Merritt. "I doubt that happens," he said with a low chuckle. "You seem to me a man who seldom gets less than what he wants."

Merritt inclined his head and smiled. "I have been ... fortunate in that respect." Gesturing toward the door he continued. "If you'll excuse me, I need to attend to some personal matters but my assistants will see you back to your transport. Thank you again for your time in negotiating this trade."

Chiana flattened herself back against the wall. The flair of //acquisitiveness// she'd suddenly felt from Merritt intrigued her. She held herself still and listened to Merritt walk away, darting into the hallway as his footsteps faded. Following discreetly, she slipped into an alcove to watch as he turned into a dimly lit hallway and disappeared behind a heavy door. She waited patiently until he emerged, palmed the lock and walked away.

Glancing over her shoulder and assuring herself she was alone, she scurried over to the mysterious door.

"I wonder what he's hiding in here?" she muttered, moving her hands over the smooth surface. Reaching into her neckline, she pulled out a small leather pouch.

"This should do it," she said softly, selecting a slender tool and a tiny disc-like device. Stooping down to eyelevel with the locking mechanism, she placed the small button in the center of the palm print area and pressed it. It pulsed, then beeped softly and began moving. Chiana followed the device, lightly brushing the tool over the area as she deftly tapped out a fine dust of magnetic particles. When it stopped moving, she plucked it off and tucked both items back into the pouch.

Still crouched, she looked over her shoulder again, checking the empty hallway then pressing against the door, she slipped quietly into the darkened room.

She blinked her eyes, not moving until they adjusted to the low light. As she slowly took in the gallery, she rose to her feet, her jaw dropping in amazement.

"Frell!" she breathed. She walked among the various displays and exhibits her eyes darting greedily from one to the other. "There are things here I thought existed only in stories," she whispered to herself.

Suddenly she stopped in front of a large habitat. "No. It can't be," she whispered. She placed her hand on the clear wall, her dark eyes wide. The Traltex raised one head and stared at her mournfully. She held her breath as the other heads lifted one by one to look at her, their gaze equally pained.

She'd heard about them but hadn't believed they were real. Their pelts were of unparalleled beauty and the extinction of their species had been hastened by the fact that the animals mated for life and the death of one mate always resulted in the death of the other.

Looking into their eyes, she was hit by a powerful feeling of //despair/longing// and she realized with a start that this creature had had a mate before it was captured … a mate it was now without.

Chiana shook off a chill that ran through her body. She couldn't even guess at the money Merritt had paid for the Traltex or what it took to keep this one alive against it's will. But even more unsettling to her was the realization that he not only knew he had separated a mated pair, but that he didn't care.

Backing up, she turned and nearly knocked over a bust of a woman. It was carved so realistically that Chiana found herself staring at it, expecting it to open its eyes. As she continued to gaze at it's face, she found herself wondering what was so familiar about it.

"Aeryn!" she blurted. "It looks just like Aeryn!"

~ 15 ~

"Is that the last one?" D'Argo asked, stepping around Aeryn as she shoved one of the heavy crates into the transport.

"Yes. We're finished with this load." She leaned back against the pod's hull and took the water container a young girl held out to her.

D'Argo accepted one as well. "Merritt has been very generous," he commented looking around the hold as he took a long drink.

Aeryn smiled slightly. "Yes, he has."

Something moved fleetingly through her eyes and D'Argo gave her a measuring glance. "Are you going to stay here?"

She looked up at him with genuine surprise.

"Surely the thought has crossed your mind." He stood looking deceptively passive as he relaxed against a nearby pillar, arms crossed loosely over his broad chest.

"You would be among your own kind here… and it would certainly be safer than the life we have now," he pointed out, watching her face carefully.

"You sound as if you want to be rid of me." The tone of her voice and the smile that reached her eyes teased him.

Softly he said, "No, I do not wish to be rid of you."

Microts passed and the expression in his eyes grew serious. "I just don't want you to pass up what might be your best chance at a life… because the way we live is no life at all."

"Merritt has invited me to stay, but I don't know…." she said, shaking her head. "It's beautiful here. Peaceful." She fell silent in thought.

"My entire existence has been one battle after another. I don't know if I could stand peaceful." She gave D'Argo a rueful smile. "I'm not sure that I'm cut out for it."

D'Argo nodded, wondering with amusement if she realized how easily John's phrases passed her lips.

"Maybe the question you should be asking yourself is what will make you happiest."

~ 16 ~

Chiana started as she sensed someone coming. Ducking behind a large tapestry, she stood motionless, holding her breath as she heard the door slide open.

His footsteps were muffled on the thick carpet but his coolly detached thoughts and flat emotions were unmistakable. Shivering slightly, she ducked her head to peer through a small tear in the old fabric.

She watched Merritt move purposefully to the far wall and open a cabinet. He stared at the contents for a few microts, then reached in and took out a small vial. Holding it up to the light, he turned it around and examined it carefully.

Chiana was puzzled by the feelings and images she sensed radiating from him. There was desire for Aeryn but unlike the warmth she sensed around John, Merritt's feelings seemed to be colored more by a sense of competition and ownership rather than affection. She watched him put the vial back, then worried her lower lip as she caught a flash of //satisfaction/determination//.

The sound of a low voice calling Merritt over the comm caught her attention and she strained to hear the conversation. She couldn't catch it all, but heard enough to know that Merritt was being asked for advice on the preparations for the banquet.

As Merritt promised to join them right away, Chiana mentally breathed a sigh of relief. She continued to stand motionless, hardly taking a breath until she heard the gallery door whoosh shut. She waited for a few heartbeats, then slipped from behind the tapestry and scurried over to the cabinet. Taking out her lock tools, she quickly opened the small door.

"Frell!" she gasped. Her dark eyes moved fearfully over the array of drugs as her stomach tightened into a cold knot. She didn't recognize half of them, but those she did, she knew to be more than merely illegal.

"I've got to tell Zhaan," she muttered as she shut and carefully the re-locked the cabinet. "Or John -- he'll know what to do."

She ran to the door and palmed the lock.

Nothing.

"What the…."

Fumbling for her lock tools, she tried to disengage the mechanism but to no avail.

"No!" she cried, her voice panicked. She hit the lock, then the door with her fists.

"I've *got* to get out of here," she panted.

~17~

When John and Zhaan arrived back at the landing area, only D'Argo and Rygel were waiting for them.

"Where's Aeryn and Chi?" John asked as they approached.

"Aeryn went to talk to Merritt, but Chiana was supposed to be with you," D'Argo growled.

"Well, I say we leave them here and go back to Moya to prepare for the banquet." Rygel buzzed over on his throne sled.

John rolled his eyes and ignored him. "Chiana's got to be floating around here somewhere."

"We'll find her, John." Zhaan caught his gaze and saw how tired he was. "Go and get some rest."

D'Argo nodded. "I will take the transport back and unload. Zhaan can wait for Chiana here and we will all meet you at the banquet in three arns."

Turning to Rygel he made a mock bow. "Your Eminence, after you."

John chuckled as he watched Rygel and D'Argo argue their way back to the shuttle. As he turned to leave he sighed and finally let his guard drop and his exhaustion show.

Zhaan gave him a half smile and patted his arm. "And don't forget our earlier conversation. Don't give up without a fight."

John paused and looked at her. "I won't."

~ 18 ~

The banquet hall was already crowded when John finally arrived. He took in the opulence of the huge room and wondered, not for the first time, how the hell Merritt had found the funds to build such an advanced and luxurious city.

"John, there you are." D'Argo detached himself from a group of colonists and walked over to meet him, interrupting his musings.

"So, how'd you get out of dressing up, Big Guy?" He tugged at the collar of his black tunic self-consciously. The people all around him, it seemed, were wearing bright, vivid colors.

"According to Merritt, there was nothing in my size. For which I am very thankful. I am far more comfortable in my own clothes."

"Yeah. I hear you." His eyes were still traveling around the room looking for anyone familiar. "So where is everybody?"

"Rygel is at the main table, making a royal eema out of himself, as usual. Zhaan opted to remain with the Transport in case Chiana decides to make an appearance."

John grimaced. "So you didn't find her?"

D'Argo shook his head. "We looked everywhere for her. I just hope that she hasn't done anything foolish."

John nodded as they exchanged a look of heartfelt agreement. As they drifted through the crowd toward their seats at the main table, John asked if Merritt had arrived yet.

"No. Neither has Aer-" He was cut off by a blaring fanfare. Everyone stopped where they were and grew silent, some turning so they could gaze up to the top of the wide white stairs leading from the door to the center of the room. The huge double doors opened partway, and Merritt stepped into view.

He was King of the Castle and playing the role to the hilt, John thought bitterly. His tunic and trousers seemed to be a silky rough fabric similar to John's, but they were the pristine white that was so prevalent here. Gold trim edged and embellished the high collar and sleeves and the cut, while casual, was nonetheless faintly military and gave Merritt a decided air of command.

The man shone down on the colorfully garbed people gathered below and John was reminded of the image of a prism from this high school science books; white light reflecting out to cast a myriad of hues. And looking down at his own black clothes, he realized Merritt had chosen his outfit purposefully. He had been cast as the shadow… the absence of that vital light.

"A master manipulator," he snorted softly. And then he abruptly forgot all about it.

Aeryn entered the room calmly, poised, looking as if she'd done this a million times before. For a moment, he thought he saw a telltale hint of tension in the lines of her back and shoulders, but it might have been his imagination. His eyes traveled over the fiery red- orange silk with flashes of golden yellow thread, in a vaguely oriental-looking style that draped and clung faithfully to every curve of her body, and begged a man's hands to do the same. She was as radiant as her namesake… the red-orange color did things for her that the drab Peacekeeper reds could never imagine.

"Oh. My. God," he whispered.

"Indeed," D'Argo agreed wholeheartedly, as entranced by her as John was.

The stunning couple made their way down the stairs and across the floor to the main table. Merritt stopped here and there to speak briefly with someone, and then guided Aeryn to one of the middle seats across the table from John and D'Argo. He leaned close and whispered something to her and she smiled self-consciously before she sat down. He remained standing and clapped his hands to get everyone's attention.

"Good evening and welcome!" We often have visitors, but seldom do we have guests. And tonight we celebrate the most precious of all gifts - new friends."

Merritt smiled graciously and nodded to Rygel, John, and D'Argo as the crowd clapped and murmured their welcome. John inclined his head noncommittally, his eyes fastened on Merritt's hand as it rested, casually possessive, on Aeryn's shoulder.

"We are fortunate in so many things here," Merritt continued. "That which is different among us has only served to make us stronger. Better."

Someone called out "Thanks to you, Merritt," and he smiled and held up a hand to stop the applause that followed.

"No. All this," he gestured expansively, "is thanks to you. You have made my dreams a reality."

John clenched his teeth as he watched Merritt glance down at Aeryn, his smile obviously including her in his statement. He was startled to hear a low growl and turned to look at D'Argo.

"You don't like him anymore than I do, do you?"

D'Argo's eyes narrowed as he watched Merritt gesture for everyone to come and find their seats.

"He smells wrong," the Luxan replied succinctly.

~*~

All things considered, the banquet progressed pleasantly enough, although John, despite D'Argo's attempts to draw him into the conversation, remained silent at his end of the table.

Aeryn, was quiet too, but for a completely different reason. Despite the fact that she'd grown up surrounded by people, this was different somehow. Merritt's attention and treatment of her made her feel less like an honored guest and more like a prize on display. It made her unsettled, even nervous. The tension at the table was palpable, even though Merritt was doing his best to keep up a steady stream of conversation with D'Argo and Rygel.

As the last of the dishes were removed, several servers began unobtrusively moving the tables off to the sides to open up the main floor. At a nod from Merritt, the musicians struck up a jovial melody and with a pleased murmur, the guests moved onto the floor and began to dance.

A small, dark woman in a vivid green dress came over and held out a hand to D'Argo, who smiled at her and took it. Another woman, this one in a sky blue, approached John. He smiled at her, but gently shook his head. Even if he had known the steps... somehow it didn't feel right.

As John scanned the room, he noticed Merritt speaking intently to Aeryn. He watched as Merritt gestured to the dance floor and was surprised when she shook her head firmly. He could tell Merritt was irritated, but with his usual smooth grace, he smiled and stepped away, gesturing to another woman standing nearby who gladly took his hand.

The dancers flowed from one dance to another, laughing and changing partners as the music changed. Merritt moved among them, dancing with whichever woman happened to be nearest to him when one dance ended and another began. D'Argo sat out a few sets, but more often than not joined in. John wondered briefly where he'd learned how, then remembered his Sebacean wife Lo'laan.

As the evening progressed, the music turned from lively country dances to slower, more intimate music. People seemed to switch partners less often, and the dancing itself had spiraled down into gentle swaying and slow, random steps. Watching the couples moving together, their heads close and their arms around each other, John realized with a brief pang that it was hauntingly similar to dancing on Earth.

"I guess even on this side of the universe, people need to be able to get close," he said wistfully.

The thought reminded him that he was alone and with an irritated shrug, he started to walk toward the door. He paused as he saw Merritt move toward Aeryn and although he was just out of earshot, but he didn't need to hear them to know what Merritt was asking her. He expected her to turn him down again, but surprisingly she took his hand and allowed him to lead her to the floor. And as Merritt pulled her close, he looked over her shoulder at John, a satisfied smile on his lips.

Unexpectedly, John felt jealousy reach up and grab him by the throat. His conversation with Zhaan in the garden echoed in his mind. He had two choices. He could stand by and watch her leave or

He strode across the floor to the couple and stopped alongside them. "We have a custom on Earth," he began, as he tapped Merritt's shoulder, "It's called `cutting in'." Taking Aeryn's hand, he swung her into his arms and spun her away from Merritt before either could respond.

"Crichton, what the Hezmana are you doing?!" she hissed, struggling slightly in his grasp. But he held her pinned firmly against him where she had no leverage. She told herself she didn't break away to keep from making a scene... but something inside of her was warming to the feel of his body close against hers.

He caught her eyes with his and willed her not to look away. "I'm not going to give you up without a fight, Aeryn."

He moved her around the floor, swaying with her to the subtle music, holding her closely, his hand warm and strong against the small of her back. The crowd moved around them, in a vibrant swirl of color, and it made Aeryn even more aware of his stark black tunic. The severity of it's cut gave it a slightly military appearance and she found herself thinking how much more attractive it was than the overly decorative gold and white tunic Merritt wore. This was so much more…Peacekeeper like.

She started at the thought. "Since when was that important?" she asked herself. But as they continued to dance, she realized it was all she knew. The only way to judge a man's worth was by the rules and regulations she was raised with. And that's what she had done. Until she'd met John.

The music continued, and as they moved through the crowd, John angled her toward the far balconies, out of Merritt's eyesight.

"Crichton!" Aeryn protested, as he pulled her out onto the secluded porch. "What do you think you're …"

Sliding his hands up her arms and shoulders, he gently cradled her face, then lowered his mouth to hover over hers. "If you choose him, I want you to know what you're giving up."

As he kissed her, lights exploded behind her suddenly closed eyes and an unexpected heat rose through her body. Without thinking, she wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning into his kiss as she pressed her body closer to him. Her surrender lasted for only a few heartbeats, then abruptly she jerked away.

"Stop it John. Just stop. This is *my* decision, and no other. Leave. Me. Alone." She turned and stormed away.

~*~

From across the room, Merritt watched Aeryn move entranced in John's arms. He could see her resolve to stay with him beginning to weaken and it made him even more determined to keep her.

He turned on his heel and left the room. A nearby corridor led him to his gallery and he unlocked the door and went inside. Passing by the Traltex, he walked purposefully to the small cabinet on the far wall. He removed the dark vial he'd considered earlier and with a slight smile, pocketed it.

As he walked back toward the door, he stopped by the statue and caressed it possessively. "Soon, my dear. Soon I'll have you in my bed and under my will."

He was so caught up in his vision of the future that he didn't notice the pale figure slip behind him and out the still unlocked door.

~*~

Aeryn stood near the head banquet table and glanced around, looking for Merritt. She had to talk to him. His offer had been running through her head all day long. Stay here with him, no more running, no more hiding… her other option, to remain on Moya, was almost certainly a deadly one.

So which should she choose? Surprisingly, her conviction had never really wavered, even when she'd questioned herself. She knew, deep down, that she *couldn't* leave Moya. Or the people she had there. Or John. And she had to tell Merritt, immediately. John's actions should have pushed her away -she was furious with him - but it was in the last few moments that the imagined connection between herself and the rest of the crew had suddenly become a tangible thing. She couldn't even pretend to understand it, but it, more than anything anyone could have said or done, had finalized her decision.

"Aeryn, there you are."

She spun around in surprise at the sound of Merritt's voice. He smiled and held out a goblet to her. "I'm sorry. I certainly didn't mean to startle you. Lost in thought?"

Slightly stunned, she took the proffered cup. "A little bit, I guess. Merritt," she rushed on suddenly, before she lost her nerve, "I've made my decision."

"Oh?"

"About staying. I-"

"Try the drink. It's a wonderful mixture my cooks have created just for this celebration tonight."

Aeryn absently took the cup and took a drink - her throat was suddenly dry - before continuing. "I can't stay here. No matter how appealing the offer is, it's just not where I need to be. I'm going to return to Moya tonight with the rest of the crew." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, then took another drink of the golden liquid.

"If that is what you feel you must do… then you must do that. I'm sorry that that's the way you've chosen, but if there's nothing I can do to change your mind…"

"No. No, I -," she closed her eyes suddenly as the room swam before her. Merritt put a steadying hand on her arm and looked alarmed.

"Are you alright?"

She tried to shrug off his hold but he wouldn't let her. "Just… dizzy… I don't know…"

"Perhaps you ought to go lie down?"

She nodded absently. The world was blurring around her, as if she was becoming detached from it. Merritt turned her and guided her toward the stairs, a small smile on his lips.

~*~

Chiana looked around the banquet hall, searching for a familiar face. She had the sneaking suspicion that whatever Merritt had taken out of the cabinet was meant for Aeryn.

She spotted John near one corner of the room and wove through the dancers to reach him. "John… you have to come with me."

He looked up in surprise. "Where the hell have you been? We've been looking for you all day long!"

"There's no time for that right now. I-"

"Yes there is. What did you do?"

"I accidentally got locked in one of Merritt's rooms… it's like a treasure room or something. "

"How'd you get out?"

"Merritt came back. a few microts ago. He took something out of one of the cabinets - I think it was some kind of poison. I think he's going to use it on Aeryn!"

"Why would he do that? What-" John caught a glimpse of movement on the staircase, and looked up in time to see Merritt leading Aeryn out of the hall. He turned abruptly to Chiana. "Go find D'Argo and Zhaan and let them know what's going on." He turned and strode purposefully toward the entrance.

"What are you gonna do?"

"Go after Aeryn."

~19~

Aeryn sat on the edge of the bed, plaiting her thick hair into a braid. She glanced down at the sheer white gown she was wearing and frowned slightly. When she'd walked out of the bathing room, she'd found that her clothes had been taken and it had been placed on her bed.

The fabric was thin and silky and nearly weightless. It was nothing like she'd ever seen, much less worn. She hesitated at first to put it on, but the prospect of being completely naked in this strange room had decided her and she'd slipped into it.

At the sound of a quiet knock, she looked up, grimacing as she tried to focus her eyes across the room. "Yes?" she called out, raising her hand to her forehead and rubbing her temple.

"Are you feeling all right?" Merritt asked solicitously as he eased the door open and slipped into the room. He walked gracefully over and sat down next to her. "Perhaps it was that special wine punch my cooks made for this evening," he said with a smile. "It was probably more potent than you are accustomed to."

Aeryn nodded, the color rising to her cheeks as she saw his eyes travel over her body.

"The Abellian silk drapes well on you," he said approvingly as he reached out to adjust the folds of the gown. He let his fingers brush against her breast and noticed how she shivered involuntarily.

"There is none as fine on any world. They say the material takes on the body heat of the wearer." He leaned closer and ran his hand along the bare skin of her arm, then down her side to her hip. "I can hardly tell if my hand is on the silk or on your skin," he murmured.

Reaching up, he brushed the stray tendrils of hair away from her forehead. "Your hair is wavy," he commented. "Unusual in a Sebacean, but when you have it pulled back like this, it is hardly noticeable."

Aeryn's hand darted up to push her braid over her shoulder. She put both hands on her head, self-consciously smoothing her wet hair down. "I just washed it," she began, then paused, confused as to why she felt the need to explain this to him.

"The color is excellent though," he continued, hooking a finger under her chin and tilting her head to get a better look. Dropping his gaze to her eyes, he smiled again and leaned down to lightly kiss her eyebrow.

"You are the most incredible female." He nuzzled along her jaw then kissed her neck, slipping his arms around her and bringing her closer.

Aeryn sighed and let out a soft shuddering breath. When she closed her eyes, she felt as if she were floating ... disembodied and detached ... aware only of the sensations Merritt's touch was arousing in her. His hands began to stroke her back and for a timeless moment she suddenly wondered why they were cool and not warm like the hands she dreamed about. But then they moved again on her and she forgot her concern.

She opened her eyes as she felt his hands at her shoulders, pushing at the filmy material and sliding it down to her waist. Looking up into his face, she smiled to see the pleased expression there.

"You are as perfectly proportioned as I had first thought," he said, running his hands along her shoulders then sliding them down to lightly skim the curves of her breasts. His hands paused, then slowly traced the various scars that marked her body. "Your injuries were not all attended to properly," he said, his brows drawing together.

"That happens sometimes in battle," she said, amused at his concern.

Merritt shook his head and smiled in return. "Of course," he said smoothly. "But I'll have one of my surgeons take care of these scars for you. He has quite a gift and when he is finished, your skin will be unblemished."

Aeryn frowned, opening her mouth to protest but before she could say a word, Merritt's mouth was on hers. He kissed her slowly and gently, then leaned back to look at her in puzzlement when she didn't respond. "Is there something wrong?" he said, lightly stroking her arm.

She brought her hands up, covering herself with the soft gown. "I have been a soldier all my life. These things you mention..."

Merritt shushed her, taking her hands in his. "I am not displeased," he said, gazing into her eyes. "But is there anything wrong with me wanting you to be even more beautiful than you are?"

Aeryn shook her head slowly. She blinked her eyes and wondered why what Merritt had said brought an uncomfortable memory to mind. "I do want to be more..." she began, then stopped and blinked again in confusion. Her gaze dropped to his mouth and she reached for his face wanting his kiss but he pulled back, looking at her in surprise.

"I'm sorry," Aeryn said, suddenly realizing that she had acted out of turn.

He smiled in amusement as she dropped her hands back into her lap. "Has it been so long since you've been with a male that your eagerness overrides your control?"

Aeryn ducked her head but not before Merritt saw something totally unexpected flash across her face. Reaching for her chin, he lifted her eyes to his.

"Why are you embarrassed?" he asked, his eyes searching her face intently. "Has it been so long for you?"

Aeryn jerked her head away, turning her back to him. "Not exactly...."

He paused thoughtfully, then reached out and trailed a finger down her back, watching as she trembled at his touch. The prospect of possessing her had suddenly become even more interesting to him.

"Aeryn," he said softly, reaching for her. He pulled her toward him and began to slowly kiss her neck and shoulder. As he felt her relax back against him, he slipped his arms around her, gliding his hands up her ribcage to lightly cup her breasts.

She shivered at the coolness of his touch, but even as she drifted in the wash of sensations he was creating, a part of her yearned for a body that was warm and solid and the feel of a mouth that was hot and wet against her skin and hands that were heated with desire and eager to hold her.

As he put his hands on her shoulders and slowly pushed her back onto the bed, there was a sudden commotion in the hall. Sitting up, he turned in time to see the door fly open and four of his assistants fall into the room, two of them still holding onto John.

"Aeryn," he exclaimed urgently, then stopped abruptly as he caught sight of her, sitting up beside Merritt as she fumbled to pulled a sheer nightgown back up over herself.

"I assume there is a reason you feel you have the right to interrupt us?" Merritt said evenly, his hand still casually on Aeryn's thigh.

John's eyes flew to Aeryn's face, taking in her distracted and unfocused manner. She acted as if she was unaware of her state of near-undress as well as Merritt's hand on her leg.

"Aeryn! Look at me," he pleaded; concerned that she couldn't seem to focus on him.

"What have you done to her?" he demanded, turning to glare at Merritt.

"Not nearly as much as I'd like," he drawled, moving his hand to lightly stroke her leg.

"You son of a bitch!" John snarled, "I ... "

"Stop it!" Aeryn shouted, lurching to her feet. She pushed Merritt away as he tried to steady her and glared at the two men. "Just go away. Both of you."

Merritt rose gracefully and inclined his head at Aeryn, then turned to John. At his nod, the four men surrounding John dragged him protesting loudly out into the hall.

Merritt followed, without a backward glance.

###
END