Title: Monongahela Author: Waddles52 Summary: Mulder and Scully are in the woods again. Can they make it through this assignment without disastrous consequences? Spoilers: Slight for Field Trip Rating: PG-13 Category: MT, MSR Disclaimer: Just for fun. Not for profit. Archives: Yes, but please ask first Feedback: Yes at Waddles52@wmconnect.com Acknowledgments: Thanks to Lisa and Mindy for the fabulous betas. You made me work harder to make it better. Love ya! Notes: This is a WIP, but have no fear it is almost finished. The last part is almost ready to send to my wonderful betas. If you don't like to read WIP's because some are never finished, rest assured that I will post a new part every few days until it is complete. A.D. Walter Skinner rose from his seat to greet the two agents as they entered his office. He motioned for them to have a seat as he walked around his desk and casually perched himself on it's edge. "Agents, I'm sure you're aware that the ranks of the FBI and other agencies are stretched to their limit due to the ever-present threat of domestic terrorism." Both agents acknowledged that fact with a nod. The A.D. continued. "In times like these we all have to pitch in and use our expertise in areas that might normally be handled by someone else." Again, the two agents acknowledged his statement with a nod and also a sidelong glance at each other. Years of working together had enabled them to communicate without words. Their looks could convey volumes, but this time their silent communication indicated one thought. "We're about to be screwed." If Skinner noticed their exchange he chose to ignore it. "There have been a series of robberies in larger state parks and national parks throughout the south and southeast. At first the suspect was content to take articles from cars and unattended camping spots. From that he graduated to personal confrontation and threats of violence. His last two victims were hospitalized after he beat them and left them in an isolated area of the park. One of them is in a coma and at this time it is not known if he will live." The A.D. reached behind him for a file and a thick envelope. "While I know this isn't an X-File, I'm sure you'll pitch in and give it your best effort." He handed the file to Special Agent Dana Scully and the envelope to Special Agent Fox Mulder. "The park service has requested our help and has suggested that an undercover operation might be the best way to go about this. Field offices throughout the region are cooperating as well. Since our man seems to be heading north, I've volunteered you to cover Virginia and West Virginia. Your cover story and IDs are in the envelope and the notes from previous investigations are in the file in Agent Scully's hands. Any questions?" Mulder and Scully looked at each other and Mulder answered, "Not at this time sir." "Good. Arrangements have been made for any camping gear you might need and an SUV has been approved for your use. Please tie up any loose ends in your office and be ready to hit the road early in the morning." "Yes, sir," both agents answered. As they left his office, Skinner marveled at how well it had gone. Then it hit him. There had been no complaints and no whining from Mulder. He was either incredibly lucky or those two were up to something. Well, time would tell. He decided not to waste a moment worrying about it. He would be the first to know when the shit hit the fan. "I can't believe this, Scully," Mulder enthused as he began looking through their cover information. Scully eyed him warily as she put her file aside. "Okay, Mulder. What won't I believe?" "Skinner is sending us in as a newlywed couple," he beamed. "I don't suppose that includes the honeymoon suite at a five star hotel? "Uh, no, but I'm sure I could talk the guy in property into a deluxe tent with an air mattress. Scully, we can be together, no questions asked. Isn't that worth something?" Although almost everyone they knew was aware of the fact that they were in love, the two agents hadn't broadcast the fact that their love was no longer unrequited. They had carefully hidden the fact that they had taken their relationship to a more intimate level. "Mulder, you know that I want to be with you whenever possible. It's just that anytime an assignment takes us to the woods one or both of us is injured, hospitalized or quarantined. My skin still hasn't completely recovered from the fungus that ate North Carolina," Scully explained. "You have a point. Our track record in the wild, outdoors is abysmal, but maybe this assignment will break the trend." "Well, let's hope so. I think we're all caught up here, right?" "Aside from going over what's in that file, yes, we are for a change." "Good. I need to buy a new pair of jeans and some shorts for our assignment. Why don't you bring over some take-out around seven? After that we can go over the case and then get to bed early," Scully suggested, gathering her things. "Okay by me. What would you like to eat?" "I don't care. Anything but pizza or Mexican." "I can manage that. I'll get our gear together and get it stowed away in the SUV. We can get an early start without having to come here in the morning." "All right. See you at seven?" "Seven it is," he agreed, as he locked the office door. Mulder pulled out of the parking lot at Scully's apartment building at 7AM sharp the next morning. The plan was to beat the heavy rush hour traffic and stop for breakfast at a rest stop down I-95. They had decided to drive into West Virginia first. Their UNSUB was last seen in the Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee. If he stayed true to form he would surface again in Kentucky, North Carolina or West Virginia. Both agents hoped it was far from them. They deserved a nice, uncomplicated dead-end case for a change. The early summer weather was beautiful and though she wasn't crazy about camping out, Scully was looking forward to spending time with Mulder. He was right. It was wonderful to be able to show their affection without worrying who would see them. After a stop at the first Cracker Barrel they saw, they were on their way. Scully reviewed the case notes while Mulder sang along to a classic rock station on the radio. By late afternoon, after a stop for a late lunch and supplies, they were headed into the Monongahela National Forest. "Oh, I almost forgot!" Scully exclaimed as they continued on the route they had settled on at lunch. "I got some information off the internet last night, right before you came with the food. Want to hear it?" "Sure," Mulder answered letting his right hand rest on her left thigh. "I got this information from YAHOO!TRAVEL. The Allegheny Front of the Appalachian Mountains shapes the character of the forest. The moist western side of the front supports northern hardwoods while the drier eastern side contains oak, cedar and even cactus." "Cactus?" Mulder questioned. "That's interesting." Scully continued, "The mountains themselves are shaped by moving water. The Monongahela is home to the headwaters of five major river systems and hundreds of miles of smaller streams. Monongahela adventures include whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping (primitive and developed) bird watching, rock- climbing, cross country skiing and caving." "So, what do you want to do first?" "First, I want to hear that we are not going to the primitive camping area and secondly, I'd like to find a nice bathroom," Scully replied. "Here's a rest area," Mulder announced, pulling into the gravel parking lot. "Indoor plumbing and everything. We'll talk about the camping area when you get back." Since it was so late when they arrived, they pulled into the first camping area available. To Scully's delight it was a developed camp sight with electrical hookups, restrooms and even showers. An over priced general store was there for any items they might have forgotten. "Scully, let's get our tent set up first. Then we can take it easy for a while before dinner," Mulder suggested. The tent went up rather easily and by the time they unloaded what they would need from the SUV they were ready for a rest. Over a dinner of cold cut sandwiches, chips and soft drinks they talked about what they needed to do to make themselves targets for the UNSUB. Scully reluctantly agreed to move further into the park the next day. She understood that they needed to isolate themselves from the crowded camp sites, but she was loathe to give up the creature comforts, specifically indoor plumbing. After introducing themselves under their cover names of Marty and Deanna Conner, the agents became friendly with some of the surrounding campers. Mulder became involved in a volleyball game with the men while Scully made small talk with the women as they supervised the children. As soon as the game was over, Scully sent a very sweaty Mulder to the showers while she relished the same on the women's side. She luxuriated in the almost-hot water and washed and conditioned her hair. She hoped that she wouldn't have to wait more than a couple of days for her next shower. By midnight the campground had settled down. Despite the warm day the wind had picked up and the night was chilly. Mulder and Scully snuggled together and slept well. The next morning Scully awoke to the aroma of sausage and bacon cooking nearby. She was glad someone was going to have a big breakfast. She had planned on having breakfast bars and coffee for Mulder and herself. Of course, Mulder was already up and about. She got dressed and prepared to hunt him down. She didn't have to look far. He was the next campsite over, chowing down on bacon, sausage, eggs and pancakes. "Mornin' honey," he called. "Come on over. We saved some for you." Scully didn't need to be asked twice. Something about the cool, crisp mountain morning had stimulated her appetite. She made a mental note to visit the general store before they left. A larger breakfast would definitely be needed for the length of their stay. By mid-morning they had packed everything back into the SUV. Scully reluctantly bade farewell to the friendly people and the indoor plumbing. The plan was to stop and mingle with other people when possible as they made their way deeper into the forest. Mulder always introduced them as newlyweds and told those they encountered that they were looking for an out-of-the-way campsite. Quite a few of the men were interested in the shiny, new, top-of-the-line SUV. Mulder had a grand time showing off all of the bells and whistles. That had been part of their plan to draw attention to themselves and it seemed to be working well. As they ventured farther off the beaten path, Scully found that she had to force herself to stay alert. Having lived in cities all of her life she had very few opportunities to observe nature's finery at such a leisurely pace. As they came around one sharp curve they startled a deer by the side of the road. Mulder slowed as the buck bounded back into the forest. Soon the paved road ended and was replaced by a gravel road, barely wide enough for one car. "Heads up, Scully," Mulder cautioned. "If he's going to come after us it will probably be farther down a road like this. The last couple had to stop when the road was blocked by a fallen tree. This is barely more than a trail. It wouldn't be difficult to set something up here." "My thoughts exactly," Scully agreed. Their next campsite was a far cry from the first. A lone water spigot, some chopped wood, and two privys were the only luxuries. Despite the lack of frills, there were several tents already set up. Scully was surprised at the number of people who were willing to forgo basic comforts. She hopped down from the truck, squared her shoulders and began to help Mulder unload their gear. After setting up their site, Mulder suggested a quick snack before setting out to explore the area close to the campground. They found that several trails and a small stream ran close by. Mulder indicated that he would like to walk one of the trails for a mile or two before they had to start fixing their evening meal. Scully was in agreement and they started off hand in hand. The agents met several people returning to the camp- site. They had been part of a group returning from exploring one of the many small caves in the area. Smaller trails, some of them marked, branched off the main trail. Although Mulder was keen on going to one of the caves the next day, Scully convinced him that they were not equipped for such an adventure. He agreed reluctantly and they turned around and headed back to their tent. When they returned, Mulder set up the camp stove while Scully readied the meat. They agreed on burgers for dinner, with hot dogs the next evening. They figured they would need to head back out for more supplies after that unless they wanted to do without meat. Their ice had held up well but wouldn't last much longer. Mulder's appetite was voracious and he wanted meat and anything else he could get his hands on. Scully was secretly pleased when he had to agree to leave after the next day. They also needed to check in with Skinner. Their cell phones were useless there so they had to find a landline to call in. They both hoped that another team had apprehended the UNSUB. After dinner the campers gathered around a fire pit in the center of the campground. It was much more subdued that the previous campsite. They talked quietly until one of the campers brought out a guitar. They sang some well-known folk songs, then roasted marshmallows and made smores. They turned in by 10 o'clock as everyone had plans to hit the trails early. Mulder and Scully went back to their tent and got ready for bed. "Scully, I'm not so sure we're looking in the right place for this guy," Mulder said. "What makes you think that?" Scully queried as she spread a blanket over the air mattress. "I'm not sure. Maybe we need to be more isolated." "The previous attacks were off the beaten path but not so far away that they had trouble finding help, sort of like our situation here," Scully pointed out. "Can I help it if I want you all to myself for a while? No one around but the two of us?" "I won't fault you for that, Mulder, but I think we're doing the right thing. We're around people now, but we can get out on our own tomorrow. We're the only couple not part of a group so we'll make a good target." Scully lay down and Mulder turned off the lantern and lay beside her. "Okay, Scully. If we don't come up with anything tomorrow I'm going to tell Skinner that we're changing locations." "Agreed," Scully acknowledged. Mulder turned toward her. "Enjoying your honeymoon accommodations?" he teased. Scully gave him a chaste kiss on the lips. "I can honestly say that the air mattress isn't too bad. The bathroom facilities could be better." Mulder pulled her close. "When we change locations I'll spring for a night in a lodge or motel. How does that sound?" "Heavenly." She showed her appreciation with a kiss that was anything but chaste. "What do I get if I get us that five star honeymoon suite?" Mulder asked when he could breathe again. Scully slipped her hand under his shirt. "How about a preview?" "Bring it on," he beckoned. The campground was a beehive of activity in the early morning hours. Unlike the families in the previous campground, these campers were mostly young adults. They were eager to get going to their various activities. Scully was packing their backpacks when Mulder came into the tent. "Are you about ready to go?" he asked. "Just about. Did you dispose of our trash?" "All taken care of," Mulder answered as he knelt to help her. "I was talking to Dean, you know the guy with the guitar?" "Uh huh," Scully answered, zipping up her backpack. "He advised us to be very careful about packing up our supplies." "Bear?" "Not unless they sleep with blankets and wear size 34 jeans. I think these scavengers are human. Dean said some food was missing too." "I'm glad we decided to bring that trunk. I'll just put everything inside that will fit and lock it up. I'll wear the key with my necklace." Mulder nodded his approval as Scully handed him his backpack. "I'll meet you by the trail," he said and kissed her on the cheek. "I'll be there in a few minutes." By mid-morning Mulder and Scully had traveled several miles into the forest. Evidently everyone had gone in different directions because they hadn't seen or heard another human being on the trail. The terrain was becoming rougher as they went along. A small stream meandered along the trail and they were forced to cross it several times. They seemed to be heading uphill and the ground dropped off to their right. Scully reminded her self to pay attention to where she was going. One misstep and she would have quite a distance to fall. Mulder came to an abrupt halt. "I thought I saw someone," he whispered and pointed into the woods on his right. Scully looked but didn't see anything. "It's gone now. Let's just keep our eyes open from here on," Mulder suggested. "Good idea." By noon the trail had narrowed. The stream was to their right, along with the woods. To their left was a sheer drop off. Mulder stopped at the edge of the cliff. "That's a long way down." Scully moved to his side and he put his right arm around her. "I don't like this," she said quietly. "Since when are you afraid of heights?" "I'm not. It just makes me uneasy knowing that one false move could send us over the edge." "Yeah, let's be careful." He looked around. "The trail widens up ahead. Let's stop there for lunch and then head back, very carefully," he emphasized. "You won't get an argument from me." After a leisurely lunch, Mulder began to pack up their trash to carry out with them. "Ready to start back?" "Yeah, give me a minute to answer nature's call and I'll be ready. The sooner we get back to more level ground the better I'll feel." "Okay, I need to find a nice tree too. Be careful, okay? Don't go far." "I'll just be over there behind those bushes, and I will be very careful." When Mulder retuned to the clearing a few minutes later, Scully still hadn't returned. He turned to look in the direction he had last seen her. He caught a glimpse of her shirt in the distance. As he started to walk toward her he heard a sound in front of him. At the same time his left shoulder exploded in pain. "What the hell?" he gasped. He sank to his knees and put his right arm out to stop his fall. He saw two things before his vision began to blur and he lost consciousness. A man with a silenced handgun was hiding in a tangle of bushes and he was aiming at Scully who was rapidly approaching. Mulder's return to consciousness was anything but pleasant. A kick in the ribs brought him back to the surface. He immediately wished he could slip back into the darkness. The pain was so intense it brought tears to his eyes. It took a few seconds to realize what had happened, but when his brain began to process thoughts, his first concern was Scully. "Scully?" he called weakly. "She's right here," a man's voice informed him. "Get up!" Mulder groaned and tried to comply. "I said get up!" the man shouted, nudging Mulder's sore ribs with his booted foot. With a loud groan, Mulder was able to push himself to a sitting position. His eyes searched for Scully and he sighed his relief when he found her beside the man, apparently unharmed. "It's about time you woke up," the man growled "What do you want?" Mulder gasped. His ribs hurt so badly it was difficult to breath. "I want the keys to that shiny, new SUV and the money you have on you. I'll need your money too, sister." "I left the keys back at camp," Mulder bluffed. "Liar!" the man screamed and lashed out with his foot again. Mulder attempted to dodge the kick but it connected soundly with his bullet wound. He fell onto his right side, writhing in agony. "Stop it!" Scully demanded. "The keys are in his pocket." "Now, that's what I wanted to hear. You," he pointed to Scully, "Very slowly reach into his pocket and get the keys. Keep your left hand where I can see it." Mulder slowly began to focus again. He knew that the assailant had relieved him of his weapon when he realized that his holster was too light. He had to assume that Scully's weapon had also been found. He moved his leg enough to insure that his backup was still in the ankle holster. He could only hope that Scully remembered it was there. Scully leaned over Mulder and positioned her left hand so that it was resting next to his ankle. "Good," Mulder thought. "Scully knows and she's getting into position." She quickly found his keys and retrieved them, throwing them to the gunman and grabbing Mulder's gun at the same time. The UNSUB was surprised when the keys became airborne. As he reached for them Scully raised up, firing Mulder's weapon at the same time. Even off- balance she was a good shot. Before he could squeeze off a round, he dropped to the ground, a gunshot wound to his head. Mulder made a feeble attempt to get up but Scully held him down. "Don't move, Mulder. I need to check him out." She quickly moved over to the man lying on the ground. After checking for a pulse and finding none, Scully reclaimed her weapon and holstered it. She brought both Mulder's weapon and the robber's back with her. She re-holstered Mulder's Sig for him and quickly secured the UNSUB'S weapon, ejecting the clip and stowing the items in her backpack. With that task finished, she could turn her full attention to her wounded partner. Mulder was lying on the ground in a world of hurt, bleeding heavily from the gunshot wound he had suffered under the robber's hands. The first order of business was to stop the bleeding. Scully dove into her backpack for the small first-aid kit she had brought along. She found herself wishing that she had carried the larger one she had left at the campsite. She quickly opened the kit and withdrew several gauze pads. After removing the wrappers, she apologized to her partner for the pain she was about to cause him and applied firm pressure to the wound. The ensuing pain was enough to make him lose consciousness once again. Fortunately, the bleeding was soon under control. Scully applied some antibiotic ointment and taped fresh gauze over the wound. The bullet was still in his shoulder and would hurt like blazes when Mulder woke up. She noted that his left side was also heavily bruised, heaping more misery upon his body. She hoped he would be able to walk out. Scully wasn't too keen on leaving him in that condition while she went for help. Mulder's legs began to move, accompanied by several soft groans. A few minutes later he returned to full consciousness. "Scully?" "Right here, partner," she answered, taking his right hand and giving it a squeeze. "You okay?" "Yes, I'm fine." Mulder looked her over carefully, unwilling to rely on her stock answer. "Mulder, I'm all right. He didn't touch me. What about you? Do you think you can sit up?" "Yeah. Give me a hand?" "Sure thing." Scully helped him sit up and kept an arm around him to keep him steady. "Feeling dizzy?" "Yeah, a little bit." "You look a little green around the gills," she observed. "Uh-huh." "Breathe as deeply as you can through your nose. Slow and steady." "Hurts to breath," he groaned. "I know. Your ribs are badly bruised and I'm not ruling out a fracture." "Is he dead?" "Yes," Scully sighed. "You didn't have a choice, Scully. He was escalating. He would have killed us." "So, how are you feeling now?" she asked, changing the subject. "Do you think you can walk?" "Let me rest a few minutes more," he answered. He knew she was trying to avoid the subject of the shooting and vowed to be there for her when she was ready to work through it. "I guess we can spare a few minutes, Mulder, but not much more. If we're going to walk out of here by nightfall we need to get going soon." "Okay, in the meantime don't you think we should check that guy for ID? Maybe I should stay with the body while you get help," he suggested. "No way, Mulder. We'll take it as slowly as you need to, but we're walking out of here together. Let me check him out then we're on our way." "Should we move the body away from the trail?" "No, let's try to preserve the scene as much as possible. We've tampered with it too much as it is." Scully searched the man's pockets and found his wallet in a back pocket. She opened it and turned to Mulder. "He has an Alabama driver's license identifying him as Richard Surface, age 28." "Counterfeit?" "If it is it's a damned good job. I'll turn it in for the lab to look over," she answered, searching for an evidence bag in her backpack. After putting the wallet in the plastic bag she asked, "Ready to go?" "Yeah, let's get out of here," Mulder answered as he began to push himself up. "Here, let me help," Scully directed. She put her arm around his waist and helped him stand. "How are you doing? Any dizziness or nausea?" "Some, but I can walk." "All right, just be sure to let me know if you need to stop." "Okay. Let's head out of here." They began to slowly make their way back up the trail. Scully kept her left arm around his waist, with Mulder's right arm draped around her shoulders. Too soon the trail began to narrow and in places it was almost impossible to walk side by side. Mulder was able to keep up at first but by the time they had walked half a mile he began to slow down considerably. "Mulder, do you need to rest?" "No! Gotta keep going," he answered, laboring for breath. "It's okay if we have to stop every now and then." "I'm okay," he gasped, stumbling slightly. If Scully hadn't been supporting him he would have fallen. She slid their backpacks off her right shoulder and steered them away from the drop-off on her right. "Sit down." "I can keep going," he protested. "No, you can't. Let's take a breather." Mulder sighed resignedly and let Scully help him sit beside the trail. She brought the backpacks over and dropped them beside Mulder. "How's the pain?" "Hurts like hell." "I imagine it does. Let me check your bandage, okay? I need to see if you're bleeding." She pulled his shirt back and saw that the wound had bled a little but was nothing to be concerned with at the moment. After putting his shirt back in place she looked up at his face. He was perspiring profusely and had gone quite pale. "Mulder, what's wrong?" "Feel sick," he groaned and proceeded to loose his lunch by the side of the trail. Scully stood by and rubbed his back until he finished retching, then eased him back to lie on the ground. After pulling a hand towel from her pack, she put the pack under Mulder's feet and headed for the stream flowing parallel to the trail. She wet the cloth and squeezed the excess water from it. After wiping Mulder's face she folded it and laid it across his forehead. "Better?" "Much better," he gasped, still breathing hard. "Tore the hell out of my ribs though." "I'm sorry, Mulder. Just rest a few minutes and maybe the pain will ease up a bit." "'Kay," he answered, closing his eyes. "Mulder, no! I need you to stay awake." He groaned in answer. Scully removed the towel, wet it again, then refolded it and returned it to his forehead. "Feels good." "Is the pain any better?" "A little." "Rest a few minutes longer," Scully advised as thunder rumbled in the distance. She looked up and for the first time noticed dark clouds rolling in. "Looks like rain," Mulder observed as a big drop of rain hit him on the nose. "We need to get going." "Can you make it?" "I think so," he answered, pushing up on his right arm. "Got any water left?" "Yes, but only take a few swallows. I don't want you getting sick again." "Don't worry. I have no desire to make a repeat performance." Scully rummaged in her pack and found an unopened bottle of water. She looked through Mulder's pack and found the same. After she twisted off the top she handed Mulder a bottle. "Remember, slow and easy." Mulder nodded and took a long sip, then another and gave the bottle back to Scully. "Thanks, that hit the spot." She took a long swig, replaced the cap and put the remainder back in her backpack. Another clap of thunder sounded, closer this time. "We'd better go," Mulder decided. Scully helped him up and they started back up the trail, the rain beginning to fall steadily. A few minutes later they were engulfed in a downpour. The agents were soaked to the skin in seconds. The thunder was accompanied by brilliant flashes of lightning as the deluge quickly caused the hard, packed soil of the trail to become slippery. In the days to follow, Mulder would replay the event over and over in his mind. Even though he tried to erase it from his memory, he always came back to the look of absolute terror on Scully's face. It had been raining hard for ten minutes with no sign of letting up. Mulder was beginning to feel as if he couldn't take another step. Scully was struggling also as she was carrying both backpacks and trying to give Mulder support. Both agents slipped on the muddy trail. Being so off-balance to begin with, Scully fell to her knees, causing Mulder to slam into her. The next thing she saw was the side of the cliff. She had slipped off the trail and over the side of the drop off. Mulder lunged and caught her ankle but wasn't able to keep her from going over. She was dangling by her ankle. Only Mulder's tenuous hold kept her from falling. Mulder felt a pop in his shoulder as new shockwaves of pain rolled through his chest, right shoulder and arm. "Mulder, help me!" Scully screamed as she struggled to find something, anything that she could grab onto. "Scully, hold still!" Mulder yelled back. The driving rain was making it difficult to hold on and his shoulder felt like it was being pulled from its socket. "Can you bend forward and grab on with your hands?" He dug his toes into the muddy ground in anticipation of her movement. "I'll try, Mulder." She began to bend forward and pull herself up. Mulder felt himself being pulled closer to the edge by her movement. Even if he could find something to grab onto, his left arm was useless and his right arm was about to give out. Scully's struggle to pull her self up caused him to feel a tearing sensation in his shoulder. He bit down on his bottom lip as the stinging, burning pain traveled from his shoulder to fingertips. Scully's weight and movement once again pulled him closer to the edge. He tried to dig his toes in again but couldn't get a purchase on the smooth stone lying just below the surface. "Shit!" Mulder thought. "If I can't dig in we're both going over!" Scully had just grabbed his arm. Mulder tried to pull her up and yelled in frustration when his arm refused to work. There was nothing he could do when Scully's rain slick hands lost their grip. She fell back and the ensuing momentum pulled Mulder along with her. Both agent's eyes opened wide with fear and surprise. Mulder could hear Scully shriek as she began to fall. "Scully!" Mulder screamed, trying to force his arms to move so he could reach her. He tried to keep his eyes on her as she fell below him but his body twisted and he lost sight of her. He willed her to catch onto an outcropping of rock, anything that would stop her fall onto the gravel below. Before he could call Scully's name again he smacked into the side of the cliff, knocking the breath from his lungs. He was aware of coming to an abrupt halt and pain flaring through his back and legs. He mercifully lost consciousness before his brain could process the new sensations. Mulder came to on a narrow stone ledge, ten feet below the top of the cliff. Upon awakening all he could think of was his physical discomfort. What had happened to make every inch of his body ache? He pondered that question for a few seconds before trying to move. The aches turned into excruciating pinpoints of pain when he tried to turn onto his back. He determined that some parts of his body hurt more than others, particularly his back, legs and shoulders. The thing that bothered him most was the nagging feeling that he was forgetting something important. "Think, think," he told himself. "How did I get here and where is 'here'?" Mulder gathered all of his strength and forced himself to flip onto his back. He stared up at the darkening sky and shifted his eyes to the left. That slight movement caused his eyes to feel like someone had driven hot pokers into them. His stomach flipped and for a few minutes he struggled to keep it down. The feeling of nausea faded and his eyes only registered a dull ache. "Concussion," he thought. He tried to raise his left arm to feel his head and stopped, reminding himself not to try that again. The pain wasn't worth it. He looked above, and to his left again, and this time the pain was tolerable. His eyes followed the cliff wall all the way to the top. "I must have fallen." Suddenly, the nagging memory hit him full force. "Scully!" Without thinking, he rolled onto his right side, his shoulder protesting. He looked below, dreading what he would see. He spied another ledge a bit lower and to his right. Scully wasn't there, nor was she at the bottom of the cliff. Tears began to flow freely as he called her name, hoping against hope that she was uninjured and looking for him. He continued to cry until his strength faded like the late afternoon sun. "Please, let her be all right," he whispered as he lost consciousness once again. He roused up several times during the night calling Scully's name and getting no answer, then dropping off to sleep restlessly as a light rain fell. The next time he woke, the sun was shining brightly almost directly overhead. He wished he could see his watch but there was no way he would try to move his left arm again. Mulder wondered where his backpack had wound up. He was very thirsty and could envision that bottle of water nestled in his pack. He thought he heard something up above. "Scully! Help! Down here! Scully?" He listened in vain for a reply. He couldn't figure it out. Scully wasn't lying anywhere below him; therefore, she had to be okay. Why didn't she bring help? He began to shiver despite the warm sun. "Great. That's all I need. Must be getting an infection from that gunshot wound. Come on, Scully. Where are you?" He dozed off and on throughout the day. At one point he felt like he was being carried by someone, but he figured it was just a dream, and fell into an even deeper slumber. He awoke shivering. "Shit! I wish I could stop. That hurts." He groaned and opened his eyes. It was dark. Had he been on that damned ledge for over twenty-four hours? Something seemed different though. He smelled a campfire and something was cooking. It smelled delicious. He was just about to call for help when the face of a young girl appeared above him. He blinked his eyes and she was gone. "Huh? Must be hallucinating now." He closed his eyes, ready to drift off again when he was startled by a young voice calling, "He's awake!" He opened his eyes again and saw several people standing around him. "Where am I?" he rasped, his throat so dry it was difficult for him to talk. A dark-haired, bearded man offered him water and helped him sit up enough to drink it. Mulder greedily gulped it down until the man withdrew the cup. "Take it easy. You'll make yourself sick." He let Mulder have another swallow, then handed the cup to one of the people standing near him. "Thank you," Mulder said, his voice still hoarse. The others moved away. "You're welcome, and to answer your question, you're in our home." Mulder turned his head as much as he could and looked around. He discovered that he was in what appeared to be a cave. "Yes, Mr. Mulder. It is a cave." "How did you know my name?" "We searched you for identification and then replaced your wallet. Your money and credit cards were untouched," the man, who appeared to be around forty answered. Mulder had a weird feeling that the man was able to read his mind. "Yes, Mr. Mulder, I am able to read your thoughts. I know you have many questions and that you are extremely worried about your partner, or should I say lover?" "Have you seen her?" "Yes, she's here. We found you both last evening. We were able to take her in right away but it took a while to get you off that ledge," the man explained. "How is she? Was she hurt badly?" "I'm afraid she suffered a serious head injury along with several broken bones. My wife and mother-in-law are tending to her." Mulder tried to sit up, but the man held him down. "Please, let me go to her," he pleaded. "I have to see her." "Mr. Mulder, you need to rest." "Have you gone for help? She needs a doctor." "She is being helped." "Your wife and mother-in-law? Are they doctors?" "Not in the traditional sense." "What are they doing to her?" "They are healing her. Mr. Mulder, I can sense that you are growing tired and your pain has reached an excruciating level." He turned and took a cup from a table behind him. "Please, drink this and I will answer your questions after you sleep." "I want answers now!" Mulder demanded, rising slightly. He quickly dropped back to the pillow when a sharp pain lanced through his head. "Please drink this. It will ease your pain and help you sleep." "What is it?" "A mixture of plants and herbs used for thousands of years to relieve pain. It has a sedative effect." Mulder eyed the cup warily. "I promise. It won't hurt you." "What's your name?" Mulder inquired. "Jacob." "Jacob, call me Mulder. My father was Mr. Mulder." "Whatever you want. Will you drink this?" Jacob asked. Mulder realized that he would be unable to talk much longer. The pain had increased steadily since he regained consciousness and was threatening to overpower his ability to think and speak. "You're sure Scully is okay?" "She'll be fine, Mulder. She might even be able to talk to you when you wake up." "All right. Let me have it." Jacob held Mulder's head up so that he could swallow the concoction. Mulder chugged it down. The taste was so vile that it made him gag. By sheer willpower, he managed to keep it down. Within a few minutes he was pleasantly drowsy. He went to sleep with Scully on his mind, bound and determined that he would see her when he next opened his eyes. Mulder slept for almost ten hours. When he awoke, he was surprised that his head was feeling much better, and the other areas of pain had lessened a bit. "Did you sleep well, Mulder?" "Yes, I did. I do feel a little better," Mulder answered, feeling some changes had taken place while he slept. His bandage had been changed and some type of weird smelling ointment had been spread on his ribs, right shoulder and back. He also noticed that he had been stripped and bathed. "Who took care of me?" he wondered. "My mother-in-law did what she could for your injuries and I cleaned you up. I'm sorry, but your clothes were past saving. We'll find something for you to put on when you feel more like getting up and about." "How is Scully doing?" "She is conscious but still quite weak," Jacob reported. "You said I could see her," Mulder reminded him. "Yes, I did, and I will not go back on my word, but first, I want to tell you about our rather unique way of life." "Like why you live in a cave?" "That is one of many things I must tell you, but first you need to eat and drink. You are getting weaker by the minute." "After I see Scully," Mulder decided. "She is getting dressed. What I need to tell you must be kept a secret. I've looked into your heart and I know I can trust you to believe my story and not to reveal our location," Jacob said in a very serious tone of voice. "Yes, you can," Mulder confirmed. "For as long as we can remember, and for hundreds of years before that, our families have always lived close to each other. The McBrides always marry Pearsons. It has always been and must continue to be." "Why?" "The McBride men possess the ability to read other's thoughts. We can look into their hearts and feel if they are good or evil," Jacob explained. "That must come in handy," Mulder commented. "Yes, it does. It is very important to know other's hearts and minds because we must protect the Pearson women." "Do they have extraordinary powers too?" "Oh, yes. Without their powers, or gifts, Miss Scully would have died." The mere thought of that caused Mulder to shiver. "What do they do?" "The Pearson women are able to heal," he stated. Mulder's expression reflected his interest. "They can heal? How?" "We don't know how or why, Mulder. It starts to develop when a young girl becomes a woman. At first her powers are very weak but they become stronger as she matures. By the time she is no longer able to bear children, her powers begin to fade. The very old and very young have no healing power," Jacob explained. "Wow, that's quite a story." "It is not a story. It is a fact. My wife, Naomi, has been working on your partner, night and day. My daughter, Hannah, has been looking on. She is thirteen and just beginning to feel the power." "You mean Scully was healed by your wife?" Mulder asked incredulously. "Yes. Naomi has had very little sleep or food during her vigil, but your partner has recovered. Naomi is resting now. Miss Scully was in such grave condition that it completely drained my wife. It will take weeks for her to regain her full powers," Jacob sighed. "I think you see why we must be so protective of our women. Of course, being able to read a person's thoughts and feelings makes that job much easier." "I am deeply grateful for your wife's help. Scully is my life. If she had died. . ." Mulder stopped, unable to speak through his emotions. "I know, Mulder. I can sense your love for her above all of your thoughts and emotions." "You said I could see her," Mulder reminded him. "She will be here soon. Although Naomi healed her injuries, she is still weak. She is moving more slowly than usual. It will take a few days for her to regain her strength, but she will soon feel as she did before," Jacob assured him. "Thank you," Mulder grimaced. "Mulder, your pain is bad. You have many serious injuries yourself." "I don't care. I can live with the pain as long as Scully is all right." "Our family is small, and Naomi is the only one with full powers. I wish she could help you too, but she used all of her gift to keep Miss Scully alive. "I'll be okay," Mulder groaned, shifting uncomfortably. "I've asked Hannah to help you. Her power is very weak, but she might be able to make you more comfortable. Grandma Esther is brewing more of the drink I gave you earlier." "That stuff is vile," Mulder complained, making a face. "But it did help? Right?" Jacob grinned. "Uh, yeah, after I choked it down." "She is also preparing some broth for you. It will be ready soon." "Thank you, Jacob. I have some questions for you, though. Why do you live like hermits?" "The world shuns us. We're strange in their eyes. If they knew what we could do we would never have a moment's peace," Jacob answered, a bitter tone in his voice. "Judging from the way you speak, you are an educated man. You must have had some formal education." "Only enough to learn the basics. I read extensively whenever I can find books or magazines." "So, how do you live? How do you get food and clothing?" "Sometimes I take on odd jobs, but mostly we are scavengers. We also have a very well hidden garden close by. I'm ashamed to admit that at times, we have had to resort to theft for items that were desperately needed," Jacob admitted, blushing furiously. "A blanket and jeans for instance?" Mulder asked. "Yes, I'm sorry. Did they belong to you?" "No, they belonged to a fellow camper." "I just didn't see any other way at the time." "Don't beat yourself up over it. They have more than enough. Believe me, they can spare the items." "That still doesn't make it right," Jacob replied, tears in his eyes. Mulder heard a shuffling noise, then a sound he thought he would never hear again. "Mulder! Thank God! They found you!" Scully exclaimed, carefully kneeling beside him and gently taking him in her arms, giving him a tender kiss. "Scully, I thought I'd lost you," Mulder moaned, trying to suppress his tears. "You almost did, Mulder. I can't explain it. I thought I had a skull fracture, probably a spinal fracture and ankle fractures as well, yet here I am. I have no pain, only some weakness." "Jacob says the women have the power to heal," Mulder supplied. "I don't know about that. I just know I felt I was near death and now I'm okay." "Scully, whatever you believe, you're here and alive. Don't question it." Mulder tried to move to get closer to her, causing him to groan loudly. "Mulder, enough about me. How are you?" "I've been better." "What new injuries do you have?" "I think my right shoulder is dislocated and something's wrong with my back and legs," Mulder groaned again. "Sorry, the pain's getting to me." "Let me check you over," Scully demanded. "Be my guest," Mulder grinned despite the pain, knowing he was naked under the covers. Scully pulled the blanket back. "Oh, Mulder. You're a mess. You're just one solid bruise." "Well, not everything is bruised," he informed her, waggling his eyebrows. Scully ignored that comment. "Can you roll over onto your side?" "Not without help, I'm afraid." "Jacob, could you help me turn him? I want to check his back for injuries." "Of course, Miss Scully." With Jacob's help, she checked his back. "I don't feel anything out of place. Can you wiggle your toes?" Mulder complied, grimacing in pain. "Okay, Mulder. Let me examine your shoulders." After looking at both she determined that the right one was indeed dislocated and the left one was infected. "Any fever?" she inquired, feeling his forehead. "Yeah, I think so." "I think so too. If Naomi used her powers to heal me, why can't she heal you too?" "According to Jacob, her powers need time to recharge. It will be several weeks before they are full strength again," Mulder explained. "We need to get you to a hospital. Your shoulder needs to be put back in place as soon as possible and your other injuries and infection need to be treated as well," she decided, swaying on her knees. "Scully, you okay?" Mulder asked, concern evident in his voice. "I'm pretty tired," Scully admitted. "Then lie down with me." "Thanks. I think I'll take you up on your offer." "I'm going to get that broth," Jacob informed them. "Miss Scully, would you like some too?" "Yes, please and could we have some water too?" "Of course. You both need to replenish your fluids." Jacob brought the broth and water. "I'm going out for a walk and I'm taking Hannah with me. Grandma Esther will bring your special drink when it is ready. Naomi will probably sleep for a while, and you both need to rest too." "Thank you, Jacob." "You're welcome, Miss Scully. Hannah, let's check the garden, all right?" "Yes, Father." Scully sat up. "Mulder, let's try to get some of that broth into you." "I'll wait until you finish yours." "Nonsense. I can have mine while I'm helping you." For the next few minutes Scully sipped her broth and helped Mulder take a few sips of his. Every time she helped him lift his head, he groaned. She wished she could do something to alleviate some of his pain, knowing he had to be in agony. "That's enough, Scully." "Mulder, you need to drink this." "I can't." "You're already dehydrated. You need this." "I have to save room for Grandma Esther's special drink," he grimaced. "What is that, by the way?" "It's a mixture of plants and herbs that will help his pain," Grandma Esther explained as she handed Scully the cup. "Make sure he drinks it all." With that she shuffled to another part of the cave. Scully smelled the concoction and made a face. "Wow, that's potent." "It's absolutely vile, but it did help the pain." "Your pain is bad, isn't it?" "I've never hurt in so many places at the same time in my life," Mulder groaned. "We have to figure some way to get you to a hospital," Scully decided. "I think Jacob will help us." "We'll talk to him when he returns. In the meantime, you'd better drink Grandma Esther's special brew." "I don't know if I can get it down, Scully." "At least try. She went to all of that trouble to make it," Scully coaxed. She held the cup to his lips. Although he gagged several times, he managed to drink all of it. Scully put the empty cups on the table and lay beside Mulder again. She snuggled close and laid her arm carefully across his chest. "Scully, I was so worried about you." "And I'm worried about you. We have to get help." "We will." "What do you make of these people?" Scully asked. "Jacob explained that the two families have married for as long as anyone can remember. I'm assuming that there are more of them throughout this region somewhere." "Why do they live in a cave?" "They don't fit in anywhere. The men can read minds and are empathetic to a certain degree. They believe they exist to protect the women who have the gift of healing during their childbearing years," Mulder related what Jacob had told him. "Only during their childbearing years?" Scully inquired, her upraised eyebrow showing her skepticism. "That's the way I understood it. Hannah has some power but it hasn't reached its peak. Evidently Grandma Esther has lost hers." "Mulder, do you realize how far-fetched that sounds?" "Yes, I do, but you're living proof, Scully. You fell all the way down that cliff. You, yourself, admitted that you were severely injured." Scully sighed. "Maybe I had a concussion and had some really weird dreams as a result." "Scullee," he whined. "I'm sorry, Mulder. It just doesn't make scientific sense. It takes weeks for broken bones to heal and you expect me to believe that multiple fractures were healed with a touch?" "Have you read the Bible, Scully?" "This is something else entirely," she argued, glaring at him. "Whatever. I'm tired. I'm going to sleep for a little bit," Mulder yawned. "Yes, sleep. You need to rest." "Will you stay with me? I'm pretty cold too, and I could use someone to keep me warm." She snuggled in as close as she could. "Better?" "Mmm, cozy." Mulder fell into a restless sleep while Scully lay beside him, pondering the things he had told her. Before long she was dozing too. They were both awakened by voices. Jacob and Hannah had returned and were involved in a heated discussion with Grandma Esther. All conversation stopped when they realized their guests were awake. Jacob approached them. "How are the two of you doing?" "I'm feeling much stronger, thank you," Scully replied, rising to her knees beside Mulder. When Mulder didn't answer she turned to him. "Mulder, how are you doing?" A groan was her only answer. Scully looked at him closely. His eyes reflected the pain he felt, and when she touched his forehead it was extremely warm. "He's worse. His gunshot wound is infected and the pain from his other injuries is sapping his strength. We need to get him to a hospital. Now!" she emphasized. Hannah appeared at Jacob's side. "Hannah may be able to relieve some of his discomfort, but I'm afraid her powers aren't strong enough to do much more." "It's too soon!" Grandma Esther interjected. "There are obviously other people close by. They brought us here. Why can't you get them to take Mulder out now?" Scully questioned, fire in her eyes. "We'll let the child decide," Jacob ruled. "Decide what?" Scully questioned. "Hannah's gift is just beginning to develop. Grandma Esther is afraid that using it too early could cause her harm." "I'd like to try," Hannah offered. "Child, you don't know what you're doing. Please don't do this," Grandma Esther pleaded. Scully shook her head in disbelief. Hannah knelt beside Mulder and held her hands over him. She started to shiver and moan as Mulder began to move restlessly. Suddenly, he began to jerk and flail about in the throes of a grand mal seizure. Just as suddenly, Hannah slumped to the floor. "What have you done?" Grandma Esther wailed. "You've killed her." Grandma Esther rushed to her granddaughter's side, berating Jacob with every negative word in her vocabulary. Jacob sank to his knees, his hands covering his face. The man cried and asked God over and over to forgive him for killing his daughter. Scully managed to turn Mulder onto his right side and hold him as the rhythmic tremors continued, her tears forming a trail down her cheeks. Naomi, awakened by the commotion, staggered into the area. Even in her weakened state she could tell that Mulder's fever had become dangerously high. Her daughter had gone into a state of shock but was already beginning to recover. Instincts urged her to go to daughter's aid, but a special sense told her that Mulder needed her help immediately. She knelt slowly, reaching out to Scully to steady herself. "Mother, Hannah will be fine. She just needs to rest. Jacob, please carry her to her bed." Jacob stood, wiped his eyes, and scooped his daughter into his arms. He gently carried her away. "Mother, I need a bucket of the water we were saving for the wash. Bring it here quickly." "But, Naomi, you are in no condition to help him," Grandma Esther protested. "I'll be fine. Please, just get the water," Naomi directed. "Miss Scully, pull the blanket back. We need to cool him off." Grandma Esther brought the water and set it next to Mulder, who was still convulsing. "Now, I need as many towels as you can gather." Jacob returned. "Hannah roused up for a few seconds and said she was tired. She went right back to sleep," he reported. "Good. You can help Mother gather the towels," Naomi acknowledged, swaying slightly. "Naomi, you need to lie down too. I'm a doctor. I can take care of Mulder," Scully told her. "There is one thing I must do and then I'll turn his care back to you." Jacob brought the towels that he and Grandma Esther had gathered. "Soak them in the water," Naomi ordered. Jacob promptly complied. "We need to cover him with the towels. Mother, as soon as one becomes warm, please replace it with a cool one. Miss Scully, bathe his face. Jacob, we need to get him out of here. Run to Aunt Rebecca's place for help." "But, Hannah . . ." he protested. "Will be fine. Please hurry, Jacob," Naomi implored. "I'm leaving now." "Miss Scully, I don't have much left to give him but the convulsion isn't stopping on it's own. I'm going to try to stop it and bring his fever down. I will probably pass out. Please catch me and lay me down. Mother will tend to me while you continue to help Mulder." Scully remained skeptical. She thought that Naomi was wasting her time, but she also knew that it couldn't hurt. Short of administering anti-convulsive drugs, they were doing all they could. Naomi held her hands over Mulder's head, a look of fierce concentration on her face. After several minutes Mulder's body grew quieter until finally, he gave one last jerk, and the seizure stopped. The healer took a deep breath and tilted to her left. Scully caught her swooning body and eased her down to the floor of the cave. Grandma Esther immediately went to her daughter's side. Scully turned her attention back to Mulder who was lying quietly. She checked his pulse and found that it had slowed considerably. His skin was warm, but not scorching hot, as it had been only minutes earlier. She continued to bathe his face, all the while thinking about what she had just witnessed. Did Naomi stop the seizure or did the effect of the cool towels bring his temperature down? Weighing the evidence, she still leaned toward the tried and true method. "Sc-Scully?" She snapped out of her thoughts, surprised to hear Mulder's voice. "Welcome back, partner." "W-why? Where have I been? Ow!" "Mulder, what's wrong?" she asked anxiously. "Bad headache. Hurts to talk." "Then, don't," Scully advised. "Here, drink this." She lifted his head very gently and held a cup of water to his mouth. "Slowly." Mulder nodded slightly when he had drunk his fill. "What happened? Feel like I missed something." "You were the main attraction, Mulder. Your temperature went through the roof and you had a febrile seizure." "Really?" "Really. It was pretty scary for all of us. Jacob totally lost it after Hannah tried to help you and passed out. Naomi managed to get everyone back in line and ordered Grandma Esther to help while we were cooling you off with wet towels." "Glad I missed it." "How are you feeling now?" "Fever's better. Hurt like hell. Shit! My back is killing me!" "You did quite a bit of thrashing around. You don't feel any numbness or tingling in your legs do you?" "Just pain," he grimaced. "Follow my finger with your eyes but don't move your head." Mulder complied. "Good." "Head hurts," he complained. "That's normal. A headache and drowsiness are quite common after a seizure. All right, partner. Why don't you rest while I check that bullet wound? I'll be as gentle as I can." "Easy for you to say," he grumbled. Scully removed the blood soaked bandages. The violent movements that accompanied the seizure had caused some additional bleeding, but it had stopped on its own. The skin around the small hole was red and angry looking. Scully frowned as she observed the wound. "It's bad isn't it?" Mulder asked, dreading the answer. "I've seen better," she sighed. "Scully, didn't think I'd ever say it, but I want to go to the hospital," he groaned, tears collecting in the corners or his eyes. "Oh, Mulder." Scully leaned down and placed a kiss on his cheek. "Sorry . . . acting like a baby," he sniffed as the tears continued to fall. "Can't help it." "Mulder, you're not being a baby. It's a natural reaction to pain and fever. I have some good news, though." "Could use some." "Jacob has gone for help. They're going to carry you out as soon as they get here." "Good. Can't handle much more. Need drugs. The good stuff. Need you to hold my hand, make it better." Scully squeezed his left hand. "I'm here, Mulder." Naomi stirred and pushed herself up on one arm. "How is he?" "His temperature is down for the time being and he's alert and talking," Scully supplied. "How are you? What can I do to help?" "Just help Mother get me to bed and get that man of yours to the hospital," Naomi answered, sinking to the floor as her arm gave way. After helping Naomi to bed and checking on Hannah, Scully returned to Mulder's side. Grandma Esther shuffled over to them, carrying some clothes in her arms. "You'll need to get him dressed. Can't have him traipsing through the woods naked as the day he was born," she stated, shoving the clothes at Scully. "Thank you." Grandma Esther nodded and shuffled back to Naomi and Hannah. Scully examined the clothes she had been given. There were jeans, a flannel shirt, and a pair of clean briefs. "Mulder, she's right. You need to get dressed, although I don't even want to attempt putting a shirt on you. You're in enough pain as it is." "Thank you," Mulder mouthed, his voice giving out. "You'll have to help me by moving your hips a little though." Mulder groaned. "I'm sorry, it's going to hurt, but I'll move as quickly as I can," Scully promised, kneeling down to sort the clothes. "More fun when you undress me," he gasped as Scully moved the briefs up his legs to just below his hips. "Briefs, Scully?" "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth, Mulder. You can lose them as soon as we're at the hospital." Maneuvering the jeans was a bit more difficult, and both agents were perspiring heavily when the task was completed. Scully grabbed one of the towels and bathed Mulder's face and chest, whispering calming words as she gently moved the towel. "Need to come up with a story. Can't tell the truth." He stopped to catch his breath. "Can't expose Jacob's family." "I know Mulder. We'll think of something before we get to the hospital," Scully promised, wringing out the towel before rinsing her own face. They heard the sound of heavily booted feet. Jacob had arrived with three other men. "Looks like your ride is here." Jacob looked around and spied Mulder's hiking boots. "Don't forget these." "Thank you," Scully replied. "Ready?" Jacob inquired as Scully stood. "I think so." "You'll need these," he said and handed their backpacks to Scully. "Nothing has been disturbed. We didn't open them." Scully opened Mulder's and stuffed his boots inside. She strapped hers onto her back and slung his over her right shoulder. "Let's get you back to civilization," Jacob suggested as each man grabbed a corner of the blanket Mulder was lying on. "I'm all for that," Scully agreed, following them out of the cave. Two days later in a West Virginia hospital, Scully sat at her partner's bedside reading the local newspaper. Mulder had just been returned to his room following surgery on both shoulders, and was sleeping off the effects of the anesthesia. When he awakened, Scully was standing by with ice chips to soothe has throat. "How are you?" "Hurts," Mulder croaked. "You okay?" "Yes, Mulder. I'm still a little tired, but much better than yesterday. The doctors gave me a very thorough examination, and other than a few scrapes and bruises, I showed no sign of injury." "You need rest." "I've been resting. This recliner is quite comfortable, actually." "Rest in bed. Go back to the motel," Mulder ordered. "Nope. Until you can use at least one of your arms you're stuck with me." "What did the doctor say?" "Your left shoulder wasn't too bad. He removed the bullet and performed a wound debridement. You've got some infection there, you know. Your right shoulder was a mess. Dr. Clayborne said it was quite a challenge to make all of the repairs and it's possible you may need more surgery down the road." "Bottom line?" "You'll probably start some form of physical therapy to both before you leave the hospital. You may be able to perform light tasks with your left arm in several weeks; however, it may take six months or longer before your right shoulder heals completely." "Damn! Desk duty for that long? No way!" he exclaimed, causing him to cough as his throat protested. Scully gave him another spoonful of ice. "Do you remember what the doctor said about your back?" "Um, fractures?" "Yes, two hairline fractures in the lumbar region. You won't need surgery, but you will need a brace for a minimum of six weeks and physical therapy along with it." "Why don't you just shoot me again?" he groaned. "Put me out of my misery." "I'm going to see about some pain medication for you," Scully decided. "I'll be right back." Mulder began to think of the weeks to come. Damn it! He couldn't even take a piss by himself right now. He was afraid Scully would tire of having an invalid on her hands. Scully returned, followed by a nurse with two hypodermics in hand. "I've brought your pain meds, Mr. Mulder. It's Demerol and phenergan, so you should go back to sleep in a few minutes. Would you like some ice packs to put on your shoulders?" she asked as she emptied the hypodermics into his IV. "Yes, thank you. That might feel nice." "I'll bring them in right away. We want you to be as comfortable as possible." "I'm all for comfort." The nurse left to get the ice packs and Scully moved back to the side of his bed. "Sorry we didn't make it to that five star hotel, babe. Wanted you to be pampered," Mulder apologized, tears running from his eyes. Scully leaned over him and gently kissed them away. "None of that, Mulder. I almost lost you, and all of the pampering in the world couldn't take the pain of that away." "Now you're stuck with a banged-up lover. Can't even touch you. Want to hold you in my arms so bad." "Let me do the holding," Scully said, encircling his waist with her left arm while stretching to kiss him. "Don't want you to spend all your time taking care of me," Mulder said sadly. "Don't I get a say in this?" Scully asked rather forcefully. "In case I haven't told you enough, get it through that thick, but handsome skull of yours. I love you. That means we take care of each other." "But . . ." "No buts, Mulder. I thought we were in this until the end of time. Together forever. That means if you can't use your arms for a while, then I'll be your arms. Let go and accept all of me." "Thank you, Scully," Mulder acknowledged, gazing at her tenderly. "Thank you for loving me." "And thank you for letting me have that chance." She kissed him again and straightened up as she wiped away her tears. Spying the newspaper she had left on the chair, she picked it up and unfolded it. "Well, Mulder, you're front page news, at least in this region," she grinned, holding the newspaper so he could read the headline. "Mysterious Mountain Man Aids Injured FBI Agent," he read. "So they bought our story?" "As far as I know everyone thinks he found you while I was wandering around dazed, then found me a little later." "Good, and what about Surface?" "He was wanted for assault in several states and had been in and out of mental institutions since he was fourteen. They haven't ruled on the shooting yet so I'm on paid leave until the board convenes." "And it might take a while, Agent Scully," a man's voice announced from the doorway. "Hello, sir. I wasn't expecting to see you here," Scully replied as A.D. Skinner entered the room. "Agents," he acknowledged. "I'd shake your hand but . . ." Mulder grinned, rather lopsided as the drugs began to take effect. "I understand, Mulder. How are you doing?" "I'm kind of tied up at the moment," he answered as he nodded toward his right shoulder, which had been bound to his chest. The left arm was nestled in a sling. "I see. It looks like you'll be out of action for a while." "Several months at least," Scully explained. Mulder tried to stay awake but lost the battle. He began snoring lightly. "Let's step outside, sir. Mulder was just given a pretty substantial dose of Demerol." "All right." When they reached the hallway Skinner continued. "I have some news for you. It may be a few weeks before the review board is able to review your incident." "Oh?" "Two of the members are on vacation. One alternate is on compassionate leave and the other had emergency gall bladder surgery last night. I really don't want to call anyone back from vacation." "That's fine, sir. Mulder is essentially helpless and will be for several weeks at least. I'd like to be there for him." "Of course. I'm glad it will work out for you then. Agent, I've read your preliminary report. You had quite a story to tell." "Is there a problem, sir?" Scully asked cautiously, hoping that she hadn't overlooked any obvious contradictions in her report. "No, no problems. I'd really like to meet the man who came to your aid and thank him on behalf of the Bureau." "He's a real hermit. He disappeared as soon as he got us to the ranger station," Scully explained. "Well, I guess if he doesn't want to be found there's not much I can do. I do have one question though." "Yes?" "How in the world did you manage to come through that whole experience with only a few scrapes and bruises?" "I keep asking myself that very same question, sir and I haven't come up with an answer. I guess it was almost what you would call a miracle," Scully hedged. "I don't remember much until the man found me wandering in the woods. I guess I was in shock." "Quite an experience, Agent Scully. I haven't eaten in quite a while and I'm sure you could use a break. Why don't we go to the cafeteria and get something? I could debrief you as we eat, then you won't need to come into the office until your hearing," Skinner suggested. "All right, but I don't want to stay away too long. Since Mulder can't use his arms, he can't even push the call button for help," Scully fretted. "We'll let the nurse's station know he's alone. I'm sure they'll keep an eye on him." "Just let me get my purse." When Scully and Skinner finished eating and returned to Mulder's room, a nurse was holding a phone to Mulder's ear. "Thanks, guys. I knew I could count on you," Mulder said, then nodded to the nurse that he was finished. "What was that all about?" Scully queried as the nurse left the room. "Just needed the guys to do a favor for me." "I'm almost afraid to ask," she frowned. "Then don't. It was nothing really. What kind of trouble can I get into tied to this hospital bed anyway?" he asked innocently. Skinner and Scully looked at him and just shook their heads. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Several days later Jacob found a message near his cave. Since it was from Mulder, he gathered his brothers and cousins and followed Mulder's instructions to go to the base of the cliff where he and Scully had been discovered. They found four plastic storage boxes filled with paperback books, magazines, clothes, blankets and canned food. A note was attached to the largest one. It bore a simple message. "Thanks for the miracle! M." Jacob smiled as he and his kin picked up the boxes. They started back to the cave confident that they had finally made a friend they could trust. The End