Prologue

Near Dana ScullyÕs Apartment
Washington, D.C.
4:03 AM
  
  The voice was so familiar.
  Dana Scully braced herself against the cold, brick wall as she stared at the stranger. The .44 was point blank from her skull. One shot...
  God, where had she heard his voice?
  The hidden man trembled as he prepared to shoot. His finger shook as it began pulling back on the trigger. He listened as Scully winced, ÒMulder, IÕll be with you again... soon.Ó Mulder? What did she know about MulderÕs whereabouts?
  Startled by what Scully had whimpered, he let his guard down. Only for a second. It was then, in that second, that the tables turned. Everything changed in the blink of an eye.
  Scully had sensed that if she was going to make a move and live, now would be the time. Her leg whipped forward with all of her fear and fury, and it collided with her assaulterÕs gut. He gasped for air and dropped to the ground.
  He glanced up, still hidden in the shadows. The kick wasnÕt about to stop him. He didnÕt want to anger the Cancer Man. He brought the gun up again, his false arm creaking, still wheezing. Scully jumped back again, startled by the manÕs determination.
  The man was as startled as Scully when the gunshot rang.
  Scully winced in pain and anger, glancing towards her left shoulder. She could feel the bullet, alien to her body, beginning to do itÕs work. Blood began to spew down her shoulder. And dripped from her nose.
  She brought her hand to her face and wiped the nosebleed away. No, Dana, she thought. DonÕt even start thinking about the tumor. YouÕve gotta keep your wits up now. DonÕt even THINK about the cancer.
  As Scully brought her hand down, another shot rang. She winced again, but sighed a silent sigh when she heard the bullet ricochet of the brick behind her. Thoughts of death and pain and... and Mulder rushed through her, but she pushed them down, creating them into anger. And anger that sent her leg forward again.
  Scully wasnÕt sure if the crack that followed was just her imagination or if she had perhaps broken one or two of the attackerÕs ribs.
  She ruled out it being her imagination when the man let out a scream of agony and dropped to the ground, the gun falling out of his possession. Scully snatched it up, her shoulder sending a pain surging throughout her body as she did, and then aimed it at the attackerÕs head.
  ÒDONÕT MOVE!!Ó Scully yelled with all her might. ÒDonÕt make one move!Ó
  The man, still wheezing and panting, looked up into her eyes. She got a clear look at his face. Her eyes widened, her mouth drooped. The voice... it belonged to...
  ÒKrycek?Ó Scully gasped. ÒMy God. KRYCEK?!Ó
  The face was a familiar one, minus the newly grown mustache. His fake arm squeaked a little as he moved it. He winced from the pain in his chest as he said, ÒAgent Scully. ItÕs a pleasure to see you again.Ó
  Blood began to drip from ScullyÕs nose again, and she quickly wiped it away. She ached all over, but wasnÕt about to think about it. ÒWho sent you?Ó she asked, her anger exposing itÕs self in her words.
  Krycek began to get to his feet, but ScullyÕs foot pushed him down. He sighed, then answered the question. ÒScully. YouÕre with the government. You know I couldnÕt expose that information anyway.Ó
  ÒListen, Krycek,Ó Scully spat. ÒThe reason I care is because that person apparently wants me dead. And donÕt give me any crap. YouÕre in NO position to be arguing.Ó
  Krycek snickered. ÒWhat, Scully, do you plan on doing?Ó He winced, finally standing up. ÒKilling me? IsnÕt killing against FBI regulations?Ó
  Scully grimaced. ÒNot if itÕs in self defense!Ó she smiled, as another kick to the chest sent Krycek back to the ground. ÒAnd besides, IÕm guessing I angered Skinner pretty bad... IÕm sure he fired me.Ó
  Krycek was wheezing again, clenching his chest. ÒMan, are youÕre feet made of rock?Ó he said, off subject. ÒAnd youÕre wrong about Skinner. He didnÕt fire you, he went to my boss. ThatÕs why I was put up to this job.Ó
  Scully shook her head, protesting. ÒNo. Because I hung up on Skinner is no reason to kill me. This has something to do with the UFO crash, doesnÕt it?Ó
  Krycek snickered a little, forcing him to cough. He clenched his chest in pain. ÒBut I thought you didnÕt believe in aliens! YouÕre the skeptic, remember?Ó
  Scully opened her mouth to answer, but was stopped when she tasted the blood running down her face. She wiped off the blood, her mind heading back to the tumor.
  Krycek nodded. ÒAh, yes. The cancer,Ó he said, trying to stand up once more. ÒYOUR cancer. ThatÕs your reason for losing your skepticism.Ó Scully shook her head, furious. ÒOr is it something else...? Perhaps... Agent Mul...Ó
  He was stopped by the firing of a gun, dropping back to the ground suddenly. He searched his body frantically for wounds -- none. Scully winced with fury. ÒI missed the first time. Next time, you wonÕt be so lucky.Ó
  Krycek shook his head. ÒThe Cancer Man. He sent me. But you already knew that, didnÕt you? YouÕve known heÕd be after you since you found that green liquid in the field in Minneapolis.Ó
  Scully nodded, slowly. ÒYes. But none of that matters. All that matters now is...Ó
  Ò...Is finding Mulder.Ó Krycek interrupted.
  Scully sighed, then turned towards the night street and ran. She ran, her mind clouded. Krycek knew everything. He was part of it all. And the Cancer Man...! What was so important about that fluid?
  Suddenly, Scully halted. Her mind continued clouding. She turned to the silhouette of the FBI agent she knew so well. He had killed MulderÕs father. More rage shot through her head.
  Alex Krycek finally made it to his feet, relieved. She was gone. He could finally stand up.
  Then, the gunshot.
  Krycek felt the bullet tear into his scapula. He screamed. The scream echoed throughout the dark. He dropped to his knees once again, and his hard breathing and sobbing was only interrupted by Dana ScullyÕs voice.
  ÒItÕs a shame IÕm off FBI duty, huh?Ó

* * * *

  His hearing sense was coming back, along with his sight.
  Fox Mulder lay beneath a beaming, white light, confused. He didnÕt, couldnÕt remember anything since that night he lay helpless before their wrath. How long had he been out? How long had it been since the last time they had used him as their lab rat.
  His thoughts were interrupted by two silhouettes, which surrounded him, engulfed by the bright light. All that could be seen was the thick, gray blurb, scanning over him. It was a frightening image, wrapped with the eerie silence. But the silence was soon broken as one of the beings spoke.
  ÒHo onn as eee binn oww...Ó the voice spat, in a tired voice.
  ÒBow un eeek,Ó said the other, this voice deeper.
  The first voice spoke again. ÒAnn air idd ew ein imm?Ó
  ÒFeil. Blooee an atterd.Ó
  The first one did what appeared to be nod. Then, a small, high pitched beeping noise came. The original voice spoke again. ÒUtt.Ó He paused, and Mulder awaited another voice. Nothing came, though, until the same voice spoke again. ÒI onn eye ayy.Ó
  Mulder fought to listen to more, but his body was tired. He strained and fought, to no avail.
  Then, he passed out.

* * * *

  Frohike hadnÕt slept in days.
  His tired eyes scanned over the green substance once more. Another one to add to the millions of times he had seen it. Langly walked up from behind. The voice startled Frohike. ÒGive it up,Ó Langly said. ÒYouÕll never figure out what it is.Ó
  Frohike shook his head. ÒIt keeps moving around. I donÕt know what it is or...Ó
  Suddenly, he stopped.
  Langly stood, confused, looking over FrohikeÕs shoulder. ÒHey, Frohike,Ó he said, nervous. ÒYou okay?Ó
  Langly brought his head back from the microscope. ÒMy God. Take a look at this.Ó Frohike nodded, then brought his eye down to see.
  The liquid had changed.
  No longer a liquid, but an...
  Frohike backed up, startled. ÒGet Mulder on the phone.Ó Langly nodded, then ran off.
  ÒThis is the proof heÕs been looking for.Ó

* * * *

Near Dana ScullyÕs Apartment
Washington, D.C.
5:59 AM

  The car sped through Washington, D.C., as the night faded to dawn. The streets werenÕt busy. That was bad. Scully could have gotten away quicker and easier, and with hardly any witnesses.
  Finally, the dark car came to a halt, screeching to a stop near the alley by ScullyÕs apartment. An elder man stepped out from the backseat into the darkness that engulfed the man he had hired. His shoes stepped into the puddle of blood, streaming from KrycekÕs shoulder.
  ÒI canÕt believe you failed,Ó the scratchy voice said.
  Alex Krycek turned his head up to view his boss. ÒCancer Man,Ó was all he choked out.
  The cigarette smoking man blew the thick Camel smoke into KrycekÕs face. ÒI canÕt believe you failed,Ó he said as Krycek coughed, removing the cloud of tar from his lungs. ÒSheÕs 70 lbs. lighter, sheÕs shorter, and sheÕs got a tumor. And yet, youÕre the one whoÕs crouched in an alley, dying.Ó
  Krycek was furious, and it took all of his strength to show it. ÒI got a shot off, too. Hit her in the arm. But sheÕs strong. Stronger than you think, even with the tumor. If I didnÕt miss my mark, sheÕll be coming after YOU next. You watch your back, or youÕll be dead.Ó
  The cancer man shook his head. ÒNo, no, Agent Krycek,Ó he said. ÒYouÕre mistaken. Agent Scully would never kill me.Ó He paused, snickering a little. ÒShe wonÕt lay a damn finger on me.Ó
  Krycek nodded. ÒBecause of...Ó
  The Cancer Man interrupted, taking a puff of the cigarette. ÒYeah.
  ÒBecause IÕve got something too important to her.Ó

* * * *

   Scully ran.
  She had been running for what seemed like an eternity, clutching her shoulder, blood streaming from her nose. She had to get far enough away from Krycek and the Cancer Man before that bullet was removed. No matter HOW bad it hurt.
  As she ran, images flew through her head. The encounter with Krycek, the green liquid, her feelings for Mulder. Mulder... God, did she miss him. And at the same time, she hated him.
   For leaving.
   Before she could tell him.
  But none of that mattered anymore. As soon as the piercing bullet was removed, she knew what she had to do. Who she had to face.
   She needed to know the truth, to finally push her skepticism down.
   At all costs.

* * * *

  MulderÕs answering machine picked up the call.
  ÒHello,Ó said MulderÕs familiar voice. ÒThis is Fox Mulder. Leave a message.Ó A small, high pitched beep followed.
  LanglyÕs hysterical voice rushed out from the other line.
  ÒMulder, get your butt down here now! And bring the champagne!Ó He paused.
  ÒWe figured out what the green crap is!Ó

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

Chapter One: What Once Was Lost...

St. JosephÕs Hospital
Washington, D.C.
5:06 PM

  ÒHow does a pretty little girl like you get a bullet in the arm?Ó
  ScullyÕs arm ached with pain. It was a good pain, Scully decided. The bullet had been lodged inside for almost twelve hours before she finally had it removed.
  Scully smiled up at the elder nurse, who was busy wrapping gauze around the wound in ScullyÕs shoulder. ÒItÕs a long story,Ó was the answer Scully chose. ÒI donÕt want to bore you with it. So, am I ready to go yet?Ó
  The gauze was cut and taped down. ÒWhy, arenÕt we impatient...!Ó laughed the nurse. ÒDoes leaving so soon have anything to do with this ÔboringÕ long story?Ó
  ÒYes,Ó Scully hesitantly confessed.
  The nurse smiled. ÒApparently itÕs not such a boring story at all, Dr. Scully!Ó she exclaimed. ÒBut, yes, you can leave whenever you feel like it. Just take a few aspirin, and keep it easy when using that arm, okay?Ó
  Scully nodded. ÒThanks,Ó she smiled, standing up and walking to the door.
  Her mind continued to race, as it had hours before, as she approached the elevator. Mulder, Krycek, the Cancer Man; everything was connected somehow. She was sure of that.
   It was how they were connected she didnÕt have a clue about.
  Scully thought about Agent Skinner as the elevator began to descend. Krycek had used Skinner as an excuse to fire a .44 at her, but she was sure that wasnÕt the only reason. The green liquid had something to do with it.
  But what?
  ÒGod, Dana,Ó she thought aloud. ÒYouÕre mindÕs just one rollercoaster ride after another.Ó
  Scully exited the elevator and walked outside. An gloomy overcast hung above her head. She glanced around before finally hailing a taxi with her good arm. Her mind had slowed down. That was good.
  But what to do about the situation, she didnÕt know.
  She sat down in the musty car as the driver turned back to her. ÒWhere to?Ó he asked, with a Mexican accent.
  Ò39th Avenue, north,Ó she said. The driver nodded and began the journey.
  First, sheÕd head home.
  Then...
  ... Then it would be time.

* * * *

  ÒDrriinkk thissss, Missste Mulller.Ó
  Fox MulderÕs eyesight was finally returning at a rapid rate, and his hearing sense was coming even more quick. His ears were now able to make out words. Maybe finally, after lying here for God knowÕs how long, he could find out where, or why, THEY had taken him.
  The raspy voice continued. ÒIt willll helllll youuu seeee.Ó
  Mulder continued squinting, making out colors on the figure above. The face was a tan color, the color of human flesh. Beneath the neck, something long and red hung down, engulfed in a large gray mass, which made up the rest of the creatureÕs body. Mulder shook his head and squinted harder, straining to discover details.
  Suddenly, Mulder felt the grip of itÕs hand on his face. It opened his mouth, and a soothing, cold liquid streamed down his throat. Cool, but bitter. Mulder fought to spit the horrid taste out, but was blocked by more of the same liquid entering his mouth. He winced as he swallowed.
  The voice did what Mulder thought was a small laugh. ÒResssss assuuuuuured, Agennnnn Mulller,Ó it said. ÒYouuuuuuull beee uppp onn yerrrr feeeet inn noo tiime.Ó
  Mulder slept.

* * * *

Dana ScullyÕs Apartment
Washington, D.C.
5:41 PM

  Skinner stood in front of ScullyÕs apartment, pounding on the door. ÒScully!Ó he yelled, his powerful fist slamming once more to the doors wooden surface. ÒScully! Open the door!Ó
  Dana Scully was unaware her former FBI Agent Director would be standing at her front door as she pulled up in the cab. Her mind began swelling again, filling with the anger that she felt. It was HIS fault that the X-Files were canceled out, making it his fault that Mulder had been furious and run off. It was all because of him.
  Scully handed the cab driver a wad of dollar bills, then stepped out into the cool capitol air. Her anger raised and raised in each step she took. By the time she reached her front door, all that she was able to mutter was, ÒYOU!Ó
  Walter Skinner spun around, surprised. ÒScully,Ó he said to the troubled woman. ÒScully, I need...Ó
  Scully promptly interrupted. ÒYou canceled the X-Files,Ó she spat. ÒI argued with you and was almost killed because of it. Skinner, you got Mulder killed.Ó
  Skinner looked down towards the cement. He sighed heavily, then tried again. ÒScully, you have to understand. It wasnÕt me! The Cancer Man, heÕs pulling my strings... and you know that!!Ó He paused, taking a deep breath. ÒAnd besides, Mul...Ó 
  ÒYEAH! It might have been the Cancer Man, but so what?! Why on earth would he kill me and Mulder?! ItÕs because of how we acted towards you, right?!Ó Scully yelled. Inside, Scully knew this to be wrong, but right now, Skinner was the only one she could point blame at.
  Skinner yelled back, his powerful voice louder than hers. ÒI didnÕt want you KILLED!Ó Skinner spat. ÒI had no idea he was going to try to have you wiped out!! And about Muld...Ó
  ÒLet me inside,Ó Scully interrupted once again. SkinnerÕs face was beet red, obviously furious. Scully tried again. ÒLet me insi...Ó
  She was silenced by SkinnerÕs strong hand, slapping across her face. ÒSCULLY! SHUT UP FOR ONE MOMENT AND LISTEN!!Ó Scully jumped back, breathing heavily from pain and astonishment. Skinner began talking again. ÒScully, Mulder is ALIVE.Ó
  Scully just stared.
  Skinner stared right back.

* * * *

  ÒGeez, Mulder,Ó Langly spat. ÒPick up the stupid phone.Ó
  With a heavy sigh, Langly put the phone back on the receiver. He clenched his fist, then slammed it down to the table. Why wouldnÕt Mulder call back?!
  Byers walked over from across the room. ÒStill no luck?Ó he asked his troubled friend. The response he got was a mere shaking of LanglyÕs head. Byers nodded to himself as he said, ÒWell, keep trying, Langly. YouÕre bound to get a hold of him sooner or later.Ó
  Another dark sigh from Langly was all Byers got as he walked back to the microscope.
  Langly began talking to himself in an act of frustration. ÒGod, MulderÕs gonna miss the whole show!Ó He scooted over on his desk chair to the microscope where Frohike and Byers stood, watching in awe. Langly put his eye to magnifier.
  ÒGeez,Ó Frohike said to no one in particular. ÒItÕs growing even faster. YouÕd better get a hold of Mulder soon. He wonÕt want to miss this.Ó Langly nodded, pulling his head away. All three were silent.
  Byers was the one to break that silence. ÒHey, Langly,Ó he said, a glint of hope in his eye. Langly looked up at him.
  ÒHave you tried Scully yet?Ó

* * * *

5:49 PM

  Ò...So the Cancer Man sent Krycek after you?Ó  Skinner sat in ScullyÕs apartment, sipping on a cup on warm coffee. Scully paced back and forth repeatedly in front of him. ÒYeah,Ó Scully finally answered. ÒOur dear pal Krycek.Ó Skinner just shook his head. Suddenly, Scully changed the subject. ÒHow do you know Mulder is alive?Ó
  Skinner sighed, then began his story. ÒLast week when you got so angry over the phone, I knew something was wrong,Ó he said. ÒI reported it to the Cigarette Man, who promptly fired me for Ônot keeping track of youÕ.
  ÒI decided IÕd find out what was wrong myself, so I headed to Minneapolis.Ó He paused, taking a deep sip of his coffee. ÒI searched your motel rooms, but nothing came up. I was about to leave, and then I decided to check out the ÔUFOÕ crash sight.Ó
  Scully sat down, intrigued. ÒAnd thatÕs where you found Mulder?Ó
  Skinner nodded. ÒGood thing I did, too, Scully. Mulder had been nearly torn apart. He had some pretty bad wounds, and I did the only logical thing.Ó
  ÒWhat?Ó Scully asked, fluttered. ÒSkinner, where is Mulder?Ó Skinner shook his head, looking to the floor. Scully tried again. ÒSkinner, tell me where Mulder is.Ó
  SkinnerÕs eyes raised to meet herÕs. ÒI took him to the Cancer Man.Ó ScullyÕs eyes widened. She was speechless. Skinner continued. ÒI took him to the Cancer Man. And because I did that, I got my job back.Ó
  Scully could only stare.
  Time seemed to stand still. An ear piercing silence filled the atmosphere of ScullyÕs apartment. Skinner and Scully stared, both deeply confused. The silence was suddenly disturbed, though, with the wringing of ScullyÕs telephone.
  Scully jumped, surprised by the sudden noise. She quickly stood up and grabbed the phone, fleeing the agitating scene with Skinner. ÒScully,Ó she answered, her voice very nervous.
  LanglyÕs voice exploded through the receiver, obviously excited. ÒSCULLY! Ha ha!Ó he near shouted. ÒOh, man! Are we glad to get a hold of you!!Ó
  ÒSettle down, Langly,Ó Scully said, trying to calm him.
  ÒScully, get yourself down here... NOW. And bring Mulder.Ó  Scully tried again. ÒLangly, MulderÕs not here. HeÕs... *missing*.Ó Her voice became stone cold as she said that last word. Skinner cringed in the corner. Scully finished, ÒWhatÕs the big deal, anyway?Ó
  Langly was nearly a wreck, his voice almost a scream, as he said:  ÒScully, we figured out what that green crap is!Ó
  Scully nearly dropped the phone.

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

Chapter Two: Encounter

The Lone GunmenÕs ÒHideawayÓ
5:52 PM

  LanglyÕs chair scooted across the room, telephone in hand. ÒScully, we figured out what that green crap is!Ó he exclaimed, dipping his eye to the microscope once more.
  There was no response from the other line.
  ÒScully?Ó Langly asked. ÒDid you hear me? I said, we know what it...Ó
  ÒI heard you,Ó ScullyÕs voice interrupted.
  Langly pulled the microscope away, staring at the cluster of green liquid with his naked eye. He could see all of the little particles without the microscope! They had doubled in size in almost an hour! It was growing like...
  ÒLANGLY!Ó
  Langly snapped out of his trance. ÒH-huh?Ó he stuttered.

* * * *

Dana ScullyÕs Apartment
same time

  ÒI said, what exactly is it?Ó
  Agent Dana ScullyÕs eyes were wide, her jaw nearly on the ground, and Walter Skinner was puzzled by the exasperated look. She paced about her apartment, more quick than she had just a moment ago when talking to Skinner about her partnerÕs disappearance. LanglyÕs voice came from the phone.
  ÒWell, Scully,Ó his voice said, glee shining through. ÒI guarantee youÕve NEVER seen anything like it, even with your medical practice. ItÕs some kind of life form and itÕs growing faster than hell. I give it a day or two, TOPS, before itÕs fully grown.Ó
  Scully stopped pacing. ÒW-what kind of life form?Ó she choked.
  Langly laughed. ÒWell,Ó he smiled. ÒLetÕs just say this might prove MulderÕs beliefs. ItÕs nothing that came from THIS earth.Ó
  Scully kept the same blank expression on her face. ÒThat could explain why Krycek tried to kill me...Ó she stammered, but quickly caught herself. ÒNo, wait a minute! What am I talking about? It canÕt be an alien!Ó
  ÒWhy?Ó question Langly. ÒWhat makes you so sure that this isnÕt an E.B.E., huh? Scully, think about it -- about all youÕve seen, about all of the cover ups that youÕve bought... itÕs time to wake up.Ó
  ÒNo,Ó Scully spat, frustrated. ÒItÕs not. Because I know IÕm right. IÕll bet my life on it.Ó
  ÒOne look at THIS,Ó Langly said, referring to the growing green liquid, Òand youÕd change your mind.
  ÒJust get down here soon,Ó Langly said, sternly. ÒI donÕt want you... or Mulder, for that matter... to miss the show.Ó
  Scully opened her mouth to dispute, but a dial tone was all she heard. She shook her head, thinking aloud, ÒGrowing life form?Ó
  Skinner had kept quiet long enough. He interrupted her train of thought, speaking. ÒScully?Ó he asked. ÒWhat was that all about? And whoÕs Langly?Ó
  Scully spun around to face her former director. Her voice came prompt, swift, and stern. ÒGet up,Ó she spat. Skinner jumped up. There was no way he was going to argue with an agent who could take a bullet in the arm and run for twelve hours. Scully finished, grabbing her gun.
  ÒWeÕve got someone to talk to.Ó

* * * *

Federal Bureau of Investigation Medical Wing
6:27 PM

  It was a very bright light.
  That was the first thought that crossed MulderÕs mind as he opened his un-dilated eyes.
  Agent Fox Mulder awoke after heaven knowÕs how long, and noticed the cramps and pains immediately. Slowly, he rose to a sitting position, grunting the entire way up. He winced as he attempted to look around with his stiff neck. For the first time, he would see *THEM*. He would see the inside of a UFO. He would...
  Cold realization struck Mulder with an astounding force. He looked around, all the pain suddenly disappearing from his body.
  What on earth was he doing in a hospital bed?
  Emphasis on ÒearthÓ.
  It was true, Mulder recognized everything. It was the same sight he would see in any hospital ever. The same plain, tiled walls. The same tight, enclosed walls. The same completely and utterly uncomfortable ÒbedÓ.
  ÒBut I...Ó Mulder began to say aloud, then stopping. No, he thought. This isnÕt right. He remembered in vivid detail that night in Minneapolis. He remembered staring into the vortex which would surely be his undoing -- the alien craft. He remembered his ascension, the cold breeze streaming through his thick hair. It was all so clear, so wonderful and frightening at the same time.
  But this...? A hospital?
  ÒAhh, Mr. Mulder,Ó came a sudden and familiar voice from behind.
  Mulder spun his head rapidly, once again wincing from the pain. He found himself staring into the same cold face he had seen so many times. The face that was responsible for all of his pain. The face...
  ...of the Cigarette Smoking Man.
  Mulder dropped his feet out of the bed on on to the icy floor. Pushing with all of his might, working his stiff and tired muscles to their maximum, he finally found his way to the standing position. But not for long. His feet suddenly slipped from under him. Using his quick reflexes, he grabbed on to the bed as he fell, keeping himself from hitting the floor. ÒYou,Ó he hissed, his confusion building. How could the Cancer Man be here...?
  ÒMr. Mulder,Ó the Cancer Man smiled. ÒYouÕre a very sick man. Just lie back down and relax, and weÕll get you something nice to ea...Ó
  ÒHow...?Ó Mulder interrupted, once again pushing himself to his feet, this time maintaining his balance. ÒHow could you be here? They took me, but IÕm here...?Ó
  The elder man shrugged a very small and simple shrug. ÒYes, youÕre ÔhereÕ,Ó the Cancer Man stated. ÒIf ÔhereÕ is Washington, D.C. More specifically, the medical wing of the Bureau, in Washington, D.C.Ó
  Mulder tried to walk in his fury, but his feet still wouldnÕt take it. Another slip, but this time Mulder was ready, catching himself more rapidly. ÒThis isnÕt right...Ó Mulder said, straining himself to stand up once more. ÒIÕm not here. I *CANÕT* be here...Ó
  The Cancer Man dropped his smoke, snuffing it out with his toe. ÒMr. Mulder,Ó he squinted. ÒYour questions arenÕt adding up. ÔWhy am I here?Õ ÔHow could you be hereÕ? Mulder, where exactly do YOU think you are?Ó
  Mulder tried once more to take a step. This time, it stuck. But he didnÕt care. His mind was still too angry. ÒDonÕt give me this bull,Ó Mulder spat. ÒYouÕve been covering them up forever. And now I know for sure.Ó He took another step. Another victory. ÒI know because I saw it with my own eyes. I felt them take me away. I sensed their presence.
  ÒYou know I was up there as well as I do,Ó Mulder spat, squinting. ÒJust like Samantha. IÕm just like her...Ó Another step. Ò...because they took me away.Ó
  The Cancer Man sighed heavily, taking out another Morley and lighting it. ÒMr. Mulder,Ó he shook his head, puffing out the deep tar cloud. ÒYouÕve been unconscious for a week. Look at you! YouÕre walking like a child, taking your first steps! And surely, while you were sleeping, you were having dreams. Now if youÕd please lay down, weÕll...Ó
  Mulder interrupted, taking another step. ÒYou...Ó he glared. ÒYou make it sound so believable, like you really do care about me and about the other thousands of victims.Ó Another step. Mulder was only a few feet from the Cancer Man now. Close enough to break his jaw. But Mulder didnÕt resort to violence. He continued.
  ÒWhat was the big deal about the downed alien craft in Minneapolis? Huh?Ó Mulder spat. ÒIt wasnÕt any more different than all of the other cases Scully and I have covered!Ó Scully! Was she all right? No, what did it matter. She had nearly shooed Mulder away after that kiss...
  ÒThat UFO crash wasnÕt any different!Ó Another step. Mulder began to feel the hatred boiling in him. ÒAnd yet, during this one, we got too close! So you shut us down. You take away anything and everything thatÕs ever been important to me.
  ÒAnd you figure you can still feed everyone line after line,Ó Mulder said, his voice becoming cold. ÒAnd you hope they all buy it. But we donÕt. We donÕt believe any of the crap you try to give us. ÔIt was a weather balloon,Õ or, ÔYouÕre hallucinating.Õ But I know what IÕve seen is real. Your lies are nothing to me.
  ÒAnd neither are you.Ó
  Mulder was breathing heavy, noticing the sweat dripping down his brow. The Cancer Man was obviously startled by MulderÕs sudden outburst. ÒMr. Mulder,Ó he sighed. ÒYouÕve been a thorn in my foot for too long.Ó
  Mulder was thinking the same thoughts as the elder man. What were they going to do about Mulder? He knew he was right. He knew what he had seen was real. What was there to do except...
  Mulder couldnÕt react in time. The Cancer ManÕs hand flew into the dark, brown trenchcoat he was wearing. Slowly, he exposed a .90 caliber pistol. MulderÕs heart began to race, but he would not let it show.
  Mulder stood, still breathing hard, as the gun was raised and put point blank next to his forehead. Mulder smiled as he thought aloud, scared out of his mind. ÒMurder,Ó Mulder smiled. ÒThe ultimate coverup.Ó
  In a moment, it would all be over.
  Mulder winced.

* * * *

6:29 PM

  Scully stepped out of the yellow cab, with Skinner right behind her. ÒScully,Ó he asked. ÒWhatÕs going on? Why did we come here?Ó
  They stood in front of the building in which they had devoted their lives to the government. The Bureau. It looked the same as it always had in the rapidly dimming sky. Scully turned to Skinner, glaring. ÒYou said you brought Mulder to the Cancer Man?Ó Scully asked. Skinner nodded. ÒWell, weÕve come to get him back.
  ÒI want to show him something.Ó
  Slowly, Scully and Skinner approached the building.
  And unaware to Skinner, Scully was cradling a .44.

* * * *

  6:31 PM

  ÒGod in Heaven,Ó Frohike spat over LanglyÕs shoulder.
  The three Lone Gunmen hovered around what had once been a green liquid. Byers turned to Langly. ÒYou did call Scully and Mulder...?Ó he asked. Langly nodded, then turned his attention back to...
  ...To eggs?
  The liquid had grown into a batch of transparent eggs, unlike any that the Gunmen had ever seen. Inside, small lifeforms could be seen, growing at a rapid rate. Langly broke the eerie silence that engulfed them. ÒMaybe this is a way of keeping the species alive. Maybe whatever that green liquid was ensures a new generation will form.Ó
  ÒWho on earth cares?Ó Frohike spat. ÒLook at this! WeÕve got aliens growing in our lab!Ó
  The three laughed, cheering with glee. They patted each other on the back, more excited than they had ever been.
  Then, the crash.
  All three immediately stopped, spinning around. Behind them, a figure hidden the dark stood. He was a brooding silhouette, and it seemed as if he was growing darker as he approached them. His voice boomed through the lab.
  ÒIÕve come for the eggs. Cooperate...
  Ò...and I wonÕt take your lives, too.Ó

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

Chapter Three: Downhill

Federal Bureau of Investigation Medical Wing
6:32 PM

  MulderÕs smile still donned his face. ÒMurder,Ó he grimaced. ÒThe ultimate coverup.Ó
  The Cancer Man would have been weaker and easily overpowered if Mulder had his full strength. But after waking up after a week of being unconscious, his muscles were tight and cramped, making it impossible to throw the .90 caliber pistol aimed at his skull to the ground.
  He heard the gun being cocked; wincing, knowing that in a second his life and his secret would both be bleeding from a bullet wound in the skull. He could almost feel the Cancer ManÕs anger and fear as his finger began to squeeze the trigger...
  ÒFREEZE!Ó
  Both Mulder and the Cancer Man glanced to the doorway of MulderÕs hospital room. There, tightly gripping a gun, Agent Dana Scully stood, with the Assistant Director of Resources Walter Skinner standing behind her. Everyone but Scully was taken agahst by her sudden outburst.
  The Cancer Man was the first to notice the bullet wound to the shoulder, as well as the small stream of blood trickling down ScullyÕs lip. Scully noticed the blood next. ÔNo, no, NO! Not now!Õ, she thought, wiping the blood away. The Cancer Man smiled as he lowered the gun. ÒWhy, Agent Scully,Ó he snickered, pulling out another cigarette. ÒWhat a pleasant surprise.Ó
  ScullyÕs pressure, everything she had seen from working for years with Spooky, had finally taken itÕs toll on her, and she knew exactly who to aim it at. ÒDonÕt give me any crap,Ó Scully spat. ÒI want to know what has been going on, and I want to know NOW.Ó
  Mulder smiled. God, did she have guts. It wasnÕt any wonder he was so in lo...
  The Cancer Man broke MulderÕs train of thought, and once again the gun was at MulderÕs head. The elder man shook his head, squinting through his own smoke. ÒAgent Scully, youÕve been worried to death about THIS,Ó he said, gesturing to Mulder. ÒAnd I have an idea that you want him back. So put the gun down, and heÕs yours.Ó
  Scully clenched the gun tighter. Did she want to risk Mulder...? No, not at all. She had worried too much and too long for him. But she stood her ground. ÒI want Mulder,Ó she spat. ÒAnd I need the truth.Ó
  ÒDoctor Scully,Ó the Cigarette Smoking Man said. ÒWhat do you need with the truth?Ó
  ÒRight now,Ó she nearly yelled. ÒI have three people who say theyÕve discovered an unknown life form in a pile of green liquid I collected from the ÔcrashÕ sight in Minneapolis. Is it an alien?Ó
  ÒAhh, Scully. I thought you were the skeptic,Ó the elder man smiled.
  ÒIS IT A D*MN ALIEN?!Ó Scully yelled, obviously losing her edge.
  Skinner held back. There was no way he was going to get involved in this. At least, not until one of the two partners had died.
  The Cancer Man shook his head, almost looking like he was disappointed. ÒAgent Scully,Ó he muttered, ÒYou ask me to tell you what I know. You ask me to give you your ex-partner. I, in return, I get nothing. Nothing. Well, that... that just isnÕt right.Ó
  He cocked the pistol again, and Mulder heard it loud and clear. The Cancer Man grabbed MulderÕs head by the hair and threw the gun to it. ÒNow,Ó the elder man snickered. ÒYouÕre faced with a decision. WhatÕs more important? The truth?Ó He shook Mulder, pulling the hair tighter. ÒOr Mulder?Ó
  MulderÕs beaming eyes stared back into ScullyÕs. God, she needed him. And she needed the truth.
  She had no idea what to do.

* * * *

  The chair came down upon ByersÕs head hard, and he fell to the ground, moaning in pain.
  It hadnÕt been a memorable fight for the Lone Gunmen. The stranger in the dark coat hadn't looked as strong when he first arrived at their now un-secretive lab. He had bellowed, ÒIÕve come for the eggs. Cooperate... and I wonÕt take your lives, too.Ó
  Frohike had been the first to attack. He ran up no later than the instant the words left the assaulterÕs lips, yelling menacingly as he approached. He jumped, slamming his fist down hard into the manÕs shoulder.
  Unfortunately, his fist didnÕt effect the stranger as much as Frohike had hoped.
  The assaulterÕs fist was different, though. Harder. Tighter. And it hurt a  lot more as it found itÕs way across FrohikeÕs cheek. He had tasted blood before the fist had even left his face. And he had dropped to the ground, leaving it up to the other two Gunmen.
  Langly had been startled. ÒYou could have killed him!!Ó he yelled.
  The man drew nearer, exposing a mustache on his younger face. ÒGive me the eggs,Ó he demanded.
  Langly attacked next. His fight, too, was less than successful. And what seemed merely the instant he had begun his attack, he joined Frohike in the corner, bleeding. The younger man drew nearer to the prize that he had come for, and Byers tried to hold his ground. Unfortunately, the large, gliding chair had been brushing against the attackerÕs side, and it came down HARD on Byers.
  The small batch of eggs lay unguarded. Slowly, the hidden man took out a lighter. The eggs burned quicker than the Gunmen could have hoped, sending an unpleasant stench into the air. The man proceeded in setting fire to the papers scattered across the desktop, grinning like a kid who found daddyÕs gun the whole time.
  After what seemed like an eternity, his tiresome job was done. Or so the Gunmen thought. He walked over to the three men, who had tucked themselves in a corner, trying to let their pain cool off. Frohike looked up to the man. ÒYouÕve destroyed our evidence. YouÕve defeated us. What more do you want?Ó
  Frohike wished he hadnÕt asked, as the small needle was exposed.  ÒYour memory,Ó the man snickered.
  The last thing Frohike saw was the small needle nearing his ear. It was a sharp, tight pain that followed. Then, everything went black.

* * * *

6:34 PM

  Dana Scully stood her ground, the gun aimed directly at the Cancer ManÕs skull, staring her partner into the eyes. MulderÕs look of terror, his look for help, was enough to drive her over the edge. She opened her mouth to speak, to tell the Cancer Man that Mulder was more important than the truth.
  It was then that she tasted the blood running down her lip.
  Was the truth more important? Maybe be exposing the truth, sheÕd be able to be the sole survivor of the abducted women. Abducted? No, Dana, she thought. Now youÕre starting to SOUND like Mulder! You NEED him!
  And you NEED the truth.
  ÒI grow tired of waiting, Scully,Ó the Cancer Man said, breaking the silence. ÒWhen I reach ÔthreeÕ, have a decision made, or IÕll make the decision for you.Ó He clenched MulderÕs hair tighter. ÒOne.Ó
  Mulder will die, Dana.
  And so will you, if you donÕt get the truth.
  ÒTwo.Ó
  Think, Dana, THINK! Mulder will be dead in a second!!
  But you need to know!!
  ÒScully, what is your answer?Ó
  Mulder!
  The truth!
  Oh...!
  The Cancer Man sighed, cocking the .90. ÒWell, Mr. Mulder,Ó he snickered. ÒYouÕll be with your family again shortly.Ó He clenched the trigger. ÒFather...Ó Mulder winced his eyes. ÒAnd little Samanth...Ó
  ÒSTOP!!!!Ó
  ScullyÕs scream was earth shattering. All three of the others in the room jumped, turning to face her. She was panting with frustration, and her eyes were squinted tight. ÒLet him go,Ó she spat at the elder man. ÒLet Mulder go.Ó
  Skinner let out a sigh of relief from behind.
  The Cigarette Smoking Man smiled, uncocking the gun and slipping it away. ÒWise choice, Agent Scully,Ó he smiled, releasing MulderÕs head, who promptly ran to Scully. ÒBut I didnÕt doubt that you would chose Mulder in the end for a second. After all, the power of love is much stronger than curiosity.Ó
  But Scully and Mulder werenÕt listening.
  Scully was wrapped tightly in MulderÕs arms, her eyes shut tightly, their lips pressed together. They stood there, wrapped in their delight, smiling deep down inside. This is what the both wanted.
  This is what they both needed.
  Each other.

* * * *

6:51 PM

  Mulder had been sent to another hospital immediately afterword, to get the rest and medical attention he needed. Scully stood in a familiar hallway of the Bureau in which she had devoted her life to. She didnÕt notice as Skinner approached from behind. Her mind was too busy right now.
  ÒScully,Ó Skinner began. Scully jumped, startled. Skinner drew nearer. ÒThat was a nice piece of work back there. YouÕre a lot tougher than I thought.Ó He paused. ÒAnd a lot smarter.Ó
  Scully knew what he meant, and she smiled back at him. She turned to face her FBI Director and smiled. ÒSkinner, thank you,Ó she said with a sigh. ÒI owe you a lot. For helping me, for telling me the truth, for being there when...Ó
  Ò...When Mulder wasnÕt,Ó Skinner finished.
  Scully smiled a little brighter. ÒYeah,Ó she said, nodding her head.
  Skinner returned the nod. There was an awkward stare between the two, before Skinner finally said, ÒAgent Scully, IÕm going to miss you. Not having you in my section of the Bureau is going to be... different.Ó
  ScullyÕs eyes glanced up into his. She was touched, no doubt. But she didnÕt let it show. Instead, she just said, ÒWho said IÕm not going to work in you sector anymore? Who said IÕm giving up the X-Files?Ó
  SkinnerÕs eyes went wide by the sudden remark from Scully. ÒWell, the Cancer Man, for one. He reassigned you and Mulder, as well as shut down the X-Files, remember?Ó
  Scully nodded. ÒYeah,Ó she smiled. ÒHe may have. But I have to talk to him.
  ÒAfter all, we still need to discuss the rest of the deal. Mulder or the truth was completely unfair.Ó
  ÒAnd if he doesnÕt let you argue...?Ó Skinner asked.
  Scully stepped up on her tip toes and whispered into his ear.
  ÒIÕve still got a gun.Ó

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

Epilogue

St. JosephÕs Hospital
Washington, D.C.
7:56 PM

  ÒOver my dead body!Ó
  Dana Scully sat next to her newly reassigned partner, Fox Mulder, with a glint of sadness in her eye. When the Cancer Man had agreed to reopen the X-Files, Scully was ecstatic. But that happiness faded quickly.
  Scully learned that with the Cigarette Smoking Man, there was always a catch. If you thought you had a good deal, heÕd slaughter it. This time was no different. Sure, he had agreed to start the X-Files once more, but he was hellbent to keep Mulder away from them.
  So that was it. Scully could have her X-Files job back, while Mulder kept his reassignment. Mulder was not taking the news well.
  ÒMulder,Ó Scully tried to protest. ÒYou have to understand! The Cancer Man thinks he can pull your strings. He thinks heÕll trick you into quitting if...Ó
  ÒIf thatÕs the case, consider my tricked,Ó Mulder spat, interrupting. Scully sighed, then opened her mouth to speak. But Mulder continued. ÒScully, he doesnÕt THINK he can pull my strings. He KNOWS he can. Because he knows me. It was him who had my dad killed, it was him who almost drove my mom to death, and itÕs him who knows where Samantha is.Ó
  Scully stood up. ÒMulder, stop!Ó she yelled. ÒStop chasing your sister! We both know sheÕs gone! I can feel that in you! And the alien abduction story...Ó
  Ò...is one youÕre starting to believe, Agent Scully,Ó Mulder stopped her.
  Scully stared. It seemed like a stare that lasted forever. What could she say? Mulder knew her better than most. Maybe she was starting to come around. Maybe it was finally time...
  Scully remained hushed.
  All Mulder could do was smile.

* * * *

  The Cancer Man paced his room back and forth.
  His mind wandered back and forth between Scully and Mulder. Was it the right thing to do, reinstate the X-Files without Agent Mulder? He had seen MulderÕs stamina, his ability to pursue, to go against the odds until he found what he was looking for. And the Cancer Man was sure, no matter what happened, no matter if the X-Files were no longer his, Mulder would go after his sister until he found her.
  Of course, it was up to the Cancer Man to HIDE her until...
  Then came the thoughts of Scully. Perhaps he should have told her... about the cancer, he meant. And how the deadline was coming nearer and nearer... she was a good agent. An excellent agent. And if he didnÕt act fast, there would be no way to save her.
  A heavy sigh followed as the Cancer Man sat down, lighting up. God, this was getting too hard. He was developing a heart.
  Well, he thought, inhaling on the cigarette, closing his eyes in ecstasy as he tasted the thick tar. D*mned if you do, and d*mned if you donÕt...

* * * *

  Scully smiled as the familiar sound of FrohikeÕs voice exploded out of the other end of the receiver. ÒUhh... hello?Ó Frohike asked, sounding groggy and tired.
  Scully became instantly worried. ÒYou okay, Frohike?Ó she asked.
  Frohike sighed. ÒYup,Ó he said. ÒJust a little bruised from... somethinÕ. DonÕt really recall what.Ó
  Scully was still concerned, but decided to forget it. Right now, she needed to know about the substance that Langly claimed was ÔgrowingÕ. ÒAnyway, Frohike, listen,Ó she chirped. ÒI need to know exactly what that green liquid is. NOW.Ó
  FrohikeÕs voice came swift and abrupt, like a fist to the gut. ÒGreen liquid? What are you talking about, Scully?Ó
  Scully fell dead silent.
  ÒScully?Ó Frohike asked. ÒScu-u-ully?Ó

* * * *

  Ò... ÔAhÕ and ÔhaÕ. Government conspiracy, eat your heart outÓ
  Mulder lay in bed, grinning up at his partner. ScullyÕs disappointment from the phone call was easily visible on her face. She sighed heavily. Mulder chortled. ÒDonÕt be depressed,Ó he comforted. ÒAfter all, this is only your first UFO dead end. Mine have numbered plenty.Ó
  Scully shook her head. ÒNo, Mulder,Ó she said solemnly. ÒThis isnÕt a coverup. ThereÕs an explanation to everything. We just donÕt know what that explanation is.Ó
  ÒLook at yourself, Dana!Ó he said, nearly shouting. Scully was surprised that he had used her first name. ÒYour still acting as stubborn and skeptical as our first case together!! Think about it -- about all youÕve seen! DonÕt you understand? ItÕs a conspiracy!! ItÕs a scandal! Our entire truth is a fraud!Ó
  ÒMulder!Ó she spat back, almost at the same decibel level. ÒShut up and look at your life! Because youÕre chasing down these ÔconspiraciesÕ and these ÔfraudsÕ, your only true love, the X-Files, have been canceled out! There worried about you chasing your sister and making stupid choices!
  ÒSo maybe the truth is out there. Maybe thatÕs where it should stay. At least that way, youÕll have a job to go to in the morning.Ó
  MulderÕs eyes glanced around the room. He could feel tears swelling. She had found the tender spot, all right. He sighed before he said, ÒThen explain this to me, DOCTOR Scully. Explain why I right now, along with everyone else who thinks theyÕve been an abductee, all have this feeling of weightlessness. IÕve had it since I woke up yesterday. Explain to me why you and all of the other women who say theyÕve been abducted developed tumors. Some coincidence? Scully, explain to me what the hell happened to my sister when I was twelve.Ó
  Scully sat for almost a minute before opening her mouth, but Mulder silenced her before she could speak. ÒYou see?Ó he asked. ÒYou canÕt explain it. Nothing in science can. Only the truth can, Scully. Only the truth.Ó MulderÕs voice was raising; he was obviously choking up. ÒAnd thatÕs all that matters, Scully. The truth. I know it. The Cancer Man knows it. And I think...Ó
  Scully stared, knowing what the next words to come out of his mouth would be.
  ÒI think, SKEPTICAL DOCTOR Scully, that you know it, too.Ó
  Both stayed silent for a while. They both were near tears, but for different reasons. Mulder hated her stubbornness, he hated the fact that he couldnÕt get over her, and he hated the fact that his life was a living disaster. Scully...
  ...She was fearing.
  Fearing her partner was right.
  The long, painful silence was finally broken by MulderÕs voice. ÒIf the Cancer ManÕs going to keep me away, IÕll help him out.Ó From beside the bed, he grabbed his FBI clearance tag and handed to Scully. Her eyes widened. ÒTurn this is for me. I wonÕt need it anymore.Ó
  ÒMulder...Ó Scully tried, but to no avail. Her response from Mulder was cold.
  ÒScully, I love you,Ó he said, rolling away from her beaming eyes. ÒAnd I think if you love me, youÕll see why IÕm doing this.Ó That was true. Scully could see why.
  Mulder was trying to escape.
  ÒNow leave,Ó Mulder finished. ÒTell the Cancer Man IÕll clear out my office tomorrow.Ó
  Scully opened her mouth, but nothing came out. And she knew why.
  Because Mulder was doing the right thing.
  Slowly, she stood up, clenching the badge in the hand on her good arm. The door squeaked open, then quietly closed. She leaned against the wall, cradling the badge, and took everything in. Inside the room, she could be brave.
  Outside, all Dana Scully could do was cry.

* * * *

  Mulder picked up the last cardboard box, recently sealed with the duct tape, and moved it towards the door. His eyes glanced around the musty basement office which he had devoted himself to. God, did it look different.
  And he was going to miss it.
  MulderÕs eyes scanned everything thoroughly, taking one last look at the office which had been his home for years. He was startled when he noticed that he had forgotten to take down his favorite poster. It was almost like it had become part of the office. He began to walk over to itÕs place, but halted.
  For the first time in years, he actually stopped to look over the familiar sight. The UFO hovering in the daylight. The green pines planted solemnly below. And the bold, white print. For the first time in his life, he read it aloud. ÒI want to believe,Ó Mulder winced, surprised to find a tear coming down his cheek.
  Mulder laughed through the tear, wiping it from his face. ÒYeah,Ó he said. ÒI DO want to believe.Ó He sighed, turning his back to the poster, letting it hang where it was. He reached the door and took one last glance to the office and to the poster.
  ÒI want to believe,Ó he said, shaking his head. ÒBut I live in a country where my own government wonÕt allow it.Ó
  Quietly, he pushed the light switch down and closed the door.