In the Washington Taelon Embassy...

Feeling the morning sunshine on her face, the small child woke up and stretched her arms. She blinked and rose from her bed, immediately going to the virtual glass window. She looked out and opened her blue eyes in wonder. The garden was completely white and there was a white, sparkling thing falling from the sky.

"Snow!" Nikki exclaimed happily, knowing through her mother's memories all the funny uses the snow could have. Without losing time, she put on her panda slippers and hurried to her parent's chamber.

Nikki's fascination was shared by Da'an, who stood by the window, looking at the falling snow. Feeling his daughter's joy, he smiled at the beautiful sight. Suddenly, he was interrupted by a soft noise behind him; he turned and approached a sleeping Susan. He silently lay next to her and tenderly stroked her red hair. He blushed blue. The birth had taken place five months ago and to his relief and joy, his beloved had recovered almost completely. True, she got easily tired and she needed to sleep more than a normal human did, but also she had started to eat and all the pain and discomfort were gone. Susan moved and, unable to stop himself, he kissed her softly on her lips. She stirred and slowly opened her eyes.

"Sorry, I did not mean to wake you up," he said sincerely, running a hand through her now shoulder length hair.

She smiled and leaned on him. "Please, stop doing... that," she whispered, sleepy.

"Why? Does it bother you?" he asked innocently, without withdrawing his hand.

She slightly shook her head. "No... you know that I like it... It's just that it is too... relaxing," Susan answered in a low voice.

"I do not see the problem," the amused Taelon said softly.

"I will not be able to wake up," she protested.

"Then I shall continue as you need to rest," he added with a hint of mischief in his voice.

The redhead blinked and looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "Is that an order?" she asked.

"No, just a suggestion," he answered seriously, but with a twinkle in his eyes.

"I am sorry to disappoint you," she teased him, "but I will not stay in bed."

"I know," he said kindly, withdrawing his hand and tilting his head. "And when will you understand you will never disappoint me?" he whispered and was about to kiss her, when the door abruptly opened and an excited little girl of five years old and startling red hair entered.

"Mom, Dad!" Nikki exclaimed, climbing to the bed and kneeling just between her parents.

Susan sat and could not help but laugh at Da'an's startled expression. "Good morning, Sparky," Susan greeted her child, stroking her head and kissing her.

"Good morning little one," Da'an said, also running a hand through his daughter's hair.

Nikki giggled and blushed blue and the contact. "Mom, mom, did you see the garden?" she asked, tilting her head.

"No," Susan answered and gave the North American Companion a puzzled look. He smiled and shrugged, even though he knew what Nikki was talking about.

"Come on mom," Nikki insisted, taking her mother's hand.

Susan grinned. "Okay, okay, Nikki," she said sweetly, rising from the bed and following the girl.

Nikki smiled in delight and guided her mother to the window. "Look," the child invited her.

The redhead did so and her face lit up. "It's snowing!" she exclaimed surprised. "Do you know what that means Sparky?" she asked with a wide grin, kneeling to meet her child's deep blue eyes.

Nikki turned serious and took a hand to her chin, as if searching for the answer. "No," she said at last, a frustrated expression on her face.

Susan rubbed her little nose. "Well... It means that Christmas is near," she told the girl.

"Christmas?" Nikki repeated, puzzled, but then, all her mother's happy memories dealing with that celebration came to her mind. The feelings of peace and good will, the carols, the decorated tree, the fat funny man in a red suit, the presents and -to Nikki's wonder- the image of a precious child who was born that day...

Nikki blinked, waking up, and stared at her mother in awe. "Can we... celebrate Christmas?" she asked with shinning eyes, throwing her short arms around Susan's neck.

"Of course, little one," Da'an said, approaching them. A happy Nikki and a grateful Susan looked up at him. "I must admit I have always been curious about this celebration, but never had a real reason to participate... until now," he explained.

"You will not regret it," Susan said with a wink and standing up.

Nikki giggled and embraced Susan's legs, causing the redhead to lose her balance. In a second, her Companion steadied her. "Thank you," she said, regaining her balance.

(Always by your side, beloved) Da'an thought to her and taking a hand behind her head, he gently pulled her closer and kissed her... and this time, Nikki did not interrupt them...

******

Onboard the Mothership...

In her private chamber, an unusually thoughtful Zo'or was seated on her chair. While she relaxed under the energy stream, her mind wondered about the strange turns life took; her relationship with her beloved Joshua and the recent arrival of a new member to the Commonality. In spite of being a hybrid, Da'an and Susan's offspring was a precious child. In fact, the Synod had find the girl so worthy that they were seriously reconsidering the idea of using hybrids against the Jaridians. If they turned out to be like Nikki, they would be too... Taelon.

She shook her head and mentally smiled. Nikki was such a strange name! Once Da'an had told her that she would never be able to deny anything to Joshua. Well, he had been so right then, but now it was obvious to her that her fellow Taelon was in the same situation... a situation that did not bother her at all. *Human's feelings are dangerously contagious,* she thought amusedly, deactivating the stream and rising from her seat. Then, sensing that her presence was needed on the bridge, she left her chamber.

Concentrated in her thoughts, Zo'or distractedly walked her way to the command center, when suddenly she bumped into an also distracted volunteer. "You must watch your steps!" she exclaimed annoyed.

The volunteer -a young man- went white and stiffened. "Please, forgive me Zo'or," he humbly apologized. "I was distracted."

"That is obvious," Zo'or replied, secretly enjoying the volunteer's reaction. She was about to scare him even more, when something lay on the floor caught her attention. It was a plant with little berries. Curious, she picked it up. "What is this?" she asked the young man.

He blushed in a deep red and cleared his throat. How in the world he could have been so stupid to drop it?

"Well?" Zo'or insisted, her unnerving blue gaze fixed upon him.

"It is... a... mistletoe," the volunteer respectfully answered.

The Taelon blinked and tilted her head, intrigued by the man's clear embarrassment. "What is it its purpose?"

Realizing that he would not get rid of the Synod Leader until he gave an acceptable answer, the volunteer took a deep breath and spoke. "It's for a Christmas tradition."

"Christmas?" Zo'or repeated and then remembered it was that time of the year, when humans exchanged presents and behave less... primitive. Beside that, she had never been attracted by it.

The young man nodded. "Yes. When two people meet under a mistletoe... they should kiss," he quickly explained.

Zo'or eyed the plant with renewed interest. "You can continue with your duties," she said dismissing him... without returning the mistletoe. The now relieved volunteer made the salute and left. *Interesting tradition,* Zo'or thought mischievously, blushing blue and putting the plant inside a pocket. Perhaps she could practice it with Joshua in the afternoon... and perhaps he could tell her more about... Christmas.

Zo'or continued walking, still with pleasant thoughts in her mind. Suddenly, she stopped dead in her tracks. Feeling something strange with her nose, she took a hand to her face... and unable to control herself, she stiffened, lost her façade... and sneezed. She blinked in surprise and in annoyance. Had she just... sneezed? Shaking her head, she recovered her disguise and looked around. Fortunately for her, no one had seen it. She sighed. It would have been really humiliating...

Then it hit her. Her sneeze had been the echo of Joshua's. She opened her eyes wide... he must have a cold! Immediately she returned to her room.

******

Back on Earth...

Joshua was in his chamber, fixing his tie before the mirror, when he abruptly sneezed. He grabbed a handkerchief and sighed. Catching a cold was not in his plans. Oh no, no with Christmas so near and definitely not today, when he had a meeting with a certain Synod Leader. He chuckled, amused, knowing that maybe he was the only human who yearned for Zo’or’s presence. "Well, I think you are deeply trapped," Joshua said happily to his reflection in the mirror. Shaking his head, he went to the closet and took his coat and a white-blue scarf. He eyed the scarf for a second, as if trying to remember something. As the memory never came, he shrugged and put on those items. He walked towards the door and was about to leave, when his communicational monitor called. Rolling his eyes, he went to answer it. When he saw who it was, a smile lit up his face. "Zo’or," he greeted her, sitting on his chair before the device. "What--"

He abruptly stopped, took a hand –and the handkerchief- to his nose and sneezed again. "Sorry," he muttered.

Zo’or tilted her head and looked seriously at him.

Joshua blinked, puzzled by her serious stare. "What is it?" he asked slightly worried.

To his relief, her gaze softened and her lips curved up in a small grin. "Why do you not take care of yourself?" she asked softly.

"What do you mean?" he asked, intrigued, but then he understood. He shook his head and smiled. "It was just a sneeze. There is no reason to worry," he soothed her.

She looked at him through the corner of the eye. "Do you still not know you cannot hide anything from me? You are sick," the Taelon stated. "You should be in bed."

He raised his hands in a peaceful manner and shrugged. "I am okay. You know I have to work. I am the President’s Representative, remember?" he said mischievously.

The Synod Leader blushed blue. "I am full aware of your duties, but you cannot perform them efficiently if you are ill," she insisted.

"I am okay," he repeated and met her blue eyes. "But I am glad to know that you care about me," he added with his best lost-puppy expression.

Zo’or gave him a you-will-not-escape-so-easily look and realizing that he would not obey her, she decided to change the tactic. She smiled. "That is correct," she said. "I do care about you. Why do you insist in worrying me?" she asked softly, half closing her eyes.

Seeing her sad expression, he rolled his eyes and sighed. "No wonder why you are the Synod Leader. You are an expert in manipulation," he noted, half-joking half-serious. "What do you want me to do? You know I hate to be in bed," he said in a dramatic, defeated tone... and sneezing again.

Her eyes glowed in triumph. "I want you to visit Doctor Belman at the Embassy," she said and smiled sinisterly, "or do you want me to tell your friend?" she asked, knowing how protective Da’an’s chosen one was towards Joshua.

Joshua looked at her with a raised eyebrow. "Speaking of manipulation..." he said and grinned, completely defeated. "Okay, okay, you win. I admit I want to see Susan and Nikki, but..."

He left the sentence unfinished and lowered his eyes, his disappointment clearly visible.

"I will be there too," she said. "There is an interesting... Christmas tradition I want to discuss with you," the female Taelon added and after a last tender look, she closed the communication.

Joshua sighed and smiled. *Indeed I am trapped,* he thought, amused. A second later, he blinked, puzzled. *Discuss a Christmas tradition?*

******

Zo’or deactivated the data stream and lay back on her chair with a satisfied smirk on her face. She won –as always- and Joshua would see Doctor Belman. Ah... Humans could be so frail... and stubborn...

Then she turned serious and tilted her head. There had been something in Joshua that had bothered her. Well, not in Joshua himself but in his clothes...

His scarf. For a strange reason she had not liked it. "This is ridiculous," she said to herself. Shaking her head to vanish the stupid thought, she rose from her seat and went her way to the bridge.

******

In the former resistance Head Quarters, now Augur’s place, the young genius was rudely awaken by a loud version of ‘Jingle bells’. Startled, he sat on his bed and once he realized everything was fine, he yawned and grabbed his wristwatch from the night table. "Ten o’clock!" he exclaimed annoyed. With a sigh, he rose and went to the main computer. "What’s going on?" he asked, taking both hands to his ears. "Please stop it!"

Immediately holo-Lili –dressed in a feminine version of Santa Claus- appeared. "Merry Christmas, Augur darling!" she exclaimed excited, without stopping the song.

Augur rolled his eyes. "There are two weeks left for Christmas," he almost cried.

The music stopped and holo-Lili turned serious. "Oops."

"Yeah, oops. Now, why don’t you make an internal diagnosis?" He suggested. "In invisible mode," he quickly added.

"As you wish, Augur darling. Initiating diagnosis," she informed, disappearing.

The genius smiled and took a hand to his chin. *Indeed there are two weeks for Christmas,* he thought, looking around. "This place needs some decoration... and I need a shower," he said, going to the bathroom.

******

Sweeping the snow away from his shoulders and head, Liam looked both sides of the street and crossed towards the Embassy. He greeted the guards and went his way to the audience chamber... when an excited –and hurried- child bumped into him. "Hey, hi, clam down, Nikki," he said, helping her to stand. Curious, he noticed her coat was unbuttoned, her hat almost falling and that she had only one glove. "Where are you going?" he asked with a bemused raised eyebrow.

"Good morning Liam," she greeted him with a wide smile. "Do you like the snow? I am going out!" she explained and was about to continue running, but he held her arm.

"Wait," he said and knelt to button up her coat and fix her hat. "Where is your other glove?" he asked.

"Thank you," she said and stared at her naked hand. "Mom has it."

"And where is she?"

"In her room," the child answered, lowering her eyes and taking both hands to her back. "It's just that... she was taking too long... in the bathroom," Nikki added.

"So... you decided to wait for her... in the garden," Liam noted.

The girl raised her head and looked at him through the corner of the eye. "That is... correct," she said in a solemnly Taelon way.

Liam couldn't help but smile. Even though Nikki was just like Susan, her resemblance with Da'an was sometimes clearly visible. He rose and took her tiny hand. "Tell you what," he said at her puzzled expression. "Why don't we go to get your mom? Perhaps she is ready. Besides, you know that she will be upset if she doesn't find you there," he explained with a wink.

Nikki seemed to think about it and finally nodded. "Okay. I don't want to worry her," the little hybrid said sincerely. "Let's go."

They walked to the elevator and after a few seconds the doors slid open. To their surprise, a disheveled and well-wrapped Susan steeped out. She had one hand on her waist and in the other one she carried a glove, a hat and a scarf. "Hi, Liam," she said and lowered her gaze to an innocent looking Nikki. "Well?"

The child smiled sweetly and gave her mother her best I-love-you-mom looks. "We were going to get you," she said matter-of-factly.

"That is absolutely true," Liam added, amused.

Susan shot him with a don't-interfere stare and returned her gaze to her daughter. "You were supposed to wait for me in the room," the redhead said seriously.

"You were taking too long, mommy," Nikki explained in a soft, tender voice.

At that word, Susan's heart began to melt. "I was drying my hair," she said and, unable to resist her child's sweet stare, she sighed and rolled her amber eyes. "Please promise you will not disappear on me again."

Nikki smiled and embraced her mother's legs. "I promise," she said solemnly and took Susan's hand. "Can we go out now, mom?"

"Yes, but first we will finish to dress you," the redhead said, putting Nikki the missing glove and the scarf and straightening her bonnet.

"Mom... I can't see," the girl protested.

Susan and Liam chuckled. She fixed the bonnet again and, once finished, Nikki's deep blue eyes were the only visible part of her face. Then, Susan put on her own woolen hat and grinned. "Now we are ready," she said. "We don't want to be sick on Christmas, do we?"

"Christmas?" Liam repeated with curiosity.

"Yes!" Nikki exclaimed happily, her eyes sparkling electric blue.

"Da'an decided to celebrate it this year," Susan explained.

"Do you like Christmas, Liam?" Nikki asked, interested, looking intently at him.

He blinked, taken by surprise by the question. Christmas was not precisely one of his favorites holidays. It reminded him too much of his beloved mother. Still, he felt he could not disappoint the child. "I... well... of course," he answered.

As if not satisfied with his words, Nikki tilted her head and looked enigmatically at her father's protector. "I would be happy if you could spend it with us," she invited him sincerely.

"Nikki, perhaps Liam has his own plans," Susan cautioned her daughter and turned to Liam. "I would be happy too," she added with a grin.

He slightly flushed and smiled back. "No... I... It will be my pleasure," he accepted, deeply touched by the offer.

"Good," Susan said with a wink and lowered her eyes to Nikki. "Let's go now, before it gets too cold. Say good bye to Liam."

Nikki giggled and waved her free hand. "Bye, Liam."

"Bye Nikki, Susan."

They smiled and walked away. The Protector followed them with an amused gaze. *Perhaps I will enjoy Christmas this year,* he thought, a childish expression on his face. Chuckling, he entered the elevator.

******

In his audience chamber, Da’an stood by the window, watching at Susan and Nikki playing in the garden with the snow. He smiled, remembering their joy when he accepted to celebrate Christmas.

He tilted his head. There was something that troubled him though. He knew it was part of the tradition to exchange presents. True, that was not the main objective of the celebration, but still, he wished to give his beloved ones something special. Susan had given him so much... She had given him their precious child...and herself...

How strange, he -who had witnessed unnumbered wonders during his voyage through the Universe- did not know what to give to a human who had seen so little...

He blushed blue and took a hand to his chest. Yes, she had seen so little, but loved so much... And Susan was not a mere human... she was... his chosen one. She--

Suddenly, someone cleared his throat to call his attention. Annoyed by the interruption, Da’an turned. However, when he saw who it was, his gaze softened and a small grin appeared on his face. He walked to his throne-like chair. "Good morning, Major," he greeted his protector, the young hybrid’s good mood not lost to him.

"Good morning, Da’an," Liam replied with a knowing look. "Sorry for the interruption."

The Taelon rolled his eyes. "I admit I was distracted," he conceded.

"Looking at the garden," Liam couldn’t resist adding. "I bumped into Nikki and Susan on my way here and--"

He abruptly stopped, unexplainably embarrassed.

"And..." the North American Companion prompted, puzzled.

Liam slightly blushed. "Well... Nikki invited me for Christmas and Susan told me you will celebrate it this year."

Da’an nodded and smiled. "That is correct. This year I wish to celebrate... as I was blessed twice," he said, losing his façade for a second. "I want to share with Susan and our daughter this important human celebration. I will be glad if you join us."

Liam smiled back. "I have already accepted. I don’t know if you have realized it’s impossible to say no to your child," he said amusedly and then gave the alien a strange look. "Does she know who I am?"

"Not in a conscious level," Da’an explained, gesturing with his hand. "Unconsciously, Nikki feels a connection with you."

"I see," the protector said thoughtfully and a little bit disappointed. "Perhaps that’s why she invited me."

Da’an shook his head, Liam’s disappointment clearly visible. "She invited you because she likes you."

"I am fond of her too," the hybrid said sincerely, a wide grin on his face.

"I know," the Taelon said, pleased. Then, Da’an tilted his head as an idea occurred to him. "Liam, can you please get all the necessary things required for Christmas?" he asked, enjoying Liam’s surprised expression. "Is it there any problem?" the North American Companion inquired at his unusually silent protector.

Liam cleared his throat and shook his head. "No, Da’an. I will take care of everything."

"Thank you," Da’an said with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes that the hybrid didn’t notice.

******

Inside his office, Joshua was seated behind his desk, working... and sneezing. Since his last conversation with the Synod Leader, his cold had unexplainably gotten worst. *I wonder if Zo’or is behind this,* he thought, half joking-half serious, taking a handkerchief to his nose. With his free hand he grabbed some papers and began to read when he received a call from President Thompson. "President Thompson," Joshua greeted him, quickly hiding the handkerchief.

"Joshua," he said with a nod.

"What can I do for you, Mr. President," Joshua asked with curiosity.

Daniel Thompson smiled. "I have to give a speech before the whole UN and I need a copy of all your briefings of your meetings with the Taelons... for tomorrow," he said seriously.

Joshua looked at him as if saying are-you-insane? "For tomorrow?" he repeated.

Thompson nodded. "I also will need all your personal notes. You never know what the members would ask," he added. "Good bye, boy... ant take care of that cold," he finished, closing the communication.

Joshua sighed and took both hands to his head. "Tyrannical," he muttered and immediately tried to contact his best friend. He really needed Susan’s help. To his disappointment, nobody answered. *Susan, when will you get a global?* he thought, annoyed.

******

In the Embassy’s garden, a child and her mother happily played with the snow, busy working on their snowman.

"Mom, it needs a nose," Nikki noted.

Susan picked up a small, round stone and placed it on the snowman’s face. "Perfect," she said.

Nikki grinned and clapped. "Yes! Now he is complete."

Susan smiled. "Now that Mr. Snowy here is ready, we can go inside," she said, taking the girl’s hand.

"Can we return tomorrow?" Nikki asked.

"Yes, but now we have to take off these wet clothes," the redhead answered, walking with her child towards the building. A couple of minutes later, they got to Susan’s room. "There you are," she said, taking off Nikki’s coat and her own.

Nikki took off her shoes and sat on the bed with her legs crossed. She tilted her head and looked intently at her mother. "Mom, tell me more about your Christmas," she begged.

Susan smiled. "I will do something better, Sparky, I will show you," Susan said kindly, going to the closet and taking a book from a box. She took off her shoes and sat near an expectant Nikki. She opened the book and the child’s face lit up at the sight of pictures of her mother. "This is my photo album," Susan explained. "There you can see how cute I was at your age... well size," she teased her daughter. "Here are your grandparents," she added softly.

Nikki nodded and stroked her hair. "Mom, when will I meet them?"

"Soon I hope, Nikki," Susan answered with a sigh.

"Do you think they will like me?" the little hybrid asked innocently, her mother’s sudden sadness not lost to her.

"Of course," Susan said sweetly, rubbing Nikki’s nose, causing her to giggle.

They continued watching the album, with Susan explaining the photos. After a while, the communicational monitor interrupted them. The redhead left the bed and went to answer it. "Joshua, hi," Susan greeted her friend with a smile, but then turned serious. "You are sick," she noted.

"Hello, Uncle Joshua!" Nikki exclaimed as she approached. "Mom is right, you look sick."

Joshua rolled his eyes and greeted them. "Hello... carrot heads," he teased them.

"Don’t call us carrot head," they exclaimed at the same time, laughing.

Joshua smiled. "Don’t worry, this is just a cold," he soothed them. Then, his grin faded and looked troubled at Susan. "Please, Susan, I need your help," he begged and in a few words he told her what Thompson wanted.

"For tomorrow!" Susan explained. "The man is crazy."

"Yeah, tell me about it."

"Of course I will help you, Josh. Don’t worry, I will link my computer with your database and start right now. I will have everything ready for you this afternoon."

"Thank you, my friend," he said, relieved. "I don’t know what would I do without you."

"Hire a secretary?" she teased him and looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "But Josh, promise me you will see Doctor Belman."

He sighed. "Yes, I already knew that," he said, rolling his eyes.

Susan smiled mischievously and immediately knew why he accepted without complaining. "I am glad Zo’or takes care of you," she noted.

He blushed in a deep red. "Yeah, see you later. Bye, Nikki," he said and disappeared from the screen.

Sighing, Susan turned and looked apologetically at Nikki. "I am so sorry, Sparky. I believe we will have to leave the rest of the photos for tomorrow," she said, kneeling to meet her child’s eyes.

"Don’t worry, mom," Nikki said sweetly, throwing her arms around her neck. "I understand... but, mom, will you tell me more about Christmas... about the child?"

Susan hugged her tenderly. "Of course, my little one," she said and stood up. "Come on, let’s go and see your father.

Nikki nodded and put on her shoes. Susan did the same and they went to the audience chamber.

******

Da’an and Liam were reviewing information in the data stream when Nikki and Susan entered. Immediately, he closed the stream and Nikki went to sit on his lap. The Taelon lost his façade for a second and tenderly stroked his daughter’s red head. "Did you enjoy the snow, little one?" he asked softly.

Nikki nodded. "Yes! We made a snowman."

The North American Companion tilted his head and looked, confused, at his chosen one. Susan chuckled. "It is a... man... made of snow," she explained, shrugging. "Anyway, Joshua called me and asked me to do some work for him. Can Nikki stay here while I do it?" she asked.

Da’an smiled, but seemed troubled.

"You don’t want me to stay here?" Nikki asked, her eyes suddenly filled with tears.

Her parents immediately hugged her. "Oh no. Do not ever think such a thing, little one," he added, holding her chin and gently forcing her to look at him.

Seeing and feeling the true love in her father’s eyes, Nikki nodded and smiled.

He smiled back and turned to his protector. "Liam, would you please take care of Nikki?"

"Sure," he said with a wide grin on his face. "Do you want to come with me, little princess?" Liam asked, while carefully taking the child from her father’s arms.

She blushed blue and giggled. "Bye, mom, bye dad," she said, waving her hand.

"Don’t get in trouble, Sparky and neither do you Liam," Susan said in full mother’s mode.

"We won’t," the little girl said sweetly and after a last tender look, both hybrids left the room.

Once they were gone, Da’an rose and stood behind a quiet Susan. "Our daughter will be fine with Liam," he said, knowing what was troubling her.

Susan turned and smiled. "Yes, I know. It’s just that I feel so... guilty."

Da’an shook his head. "You do not have to," he soothed her. "Nikki understands. Besides, if you do not help your friend, you would be feeling guilty too."

She sighed and lay her head on his shoulder. "I suppose you are right," she said.

Her Companion embraced her and calmly stroked her hair. "Will you go to Mr. Doors office?" he asked after a while.

"No, I--"

She suddenly stopped and raised her head. "Why? What happens?"

Da’an released her and turned. "Nothing," he answered.

Having a vague idea of what was bothering –and worrying- him, Susan sighed and held his shoulders, gently forcing him to face her. "Please, understand. I cannot stay within the Embassy forever," she whispered.

Da’an met her eyes and finally nodded. "I... understand," he said and softly pulled her closer. (But at least stay five more minutes with me, beloved) he echoed in her mind. With a tender glow in his eyes, he kissed her.

(Let it be ten minutes) a now blissful Susan thought back.

******

After leaving the audience chamber with Nikki, Liam decided that it would be amusing for the child to visit Augur’s place... and perhaps his friend would be able to help him with his Christmas errand. Did Da’an forget that this would be his second Christmas?

He got warm clothes for Nikki and for him and they went to the shuttle bay. They boarded a craft. "Where are we going?" the girl asked while Liam fastened her seat’s restrains.

"We are going to visit my friend Augur," he answered and took his pilot chair. "Here we go," he said, waving his hands over the controls.

Ten minutes later, they arrived to their destination. He helped her to descend from the ship, and taking her hand, they went to the temple.

"Your friend lives in a church?" she asked, amazed.

Liam chuckled. "He lives below the church, to be precise," he explained, amused, as he guided her to the back of the temple. He slid his thumb through the DNA scanner and the secret door opened. They walked in and stepped inside the hidden elevator.

******

Beneath the church, Augur was giving the last touch to his new Christmas decoration –and preparing his lunch- when the alarm of the elevator went off. Curious, he went to a monitor and blinked in surprise at the sight of Liam and a cute little girl.

Five seconds later, the doors slid open and both hybrids stepped out the elevator. Nikki and Liam opened their eyes wide in amazement. The place was completely decorated. Golden, red and green garlands, sparkling spheres, mistletoes and all sort of ornaments hung around.

"Wow!" Liam exclaimed.

"Well, well," Augur began to say, "by your startled expressions, I believe you are impressed." Then he looked at the girl. "And who is your little friend?" he asked, even though her deep blue eyes betrayed her.

"She is Nikki," Liam said. "And Nikki, this is my friend Augur."

"Nice to meet you," she said politely in her soft voice.

"My pleasure," Augur said, taking her small hand and bowing. Nikki smiled and bowed too.

"I see you have done a good job here," Liam noted.

"As always," the genius said proudly.

The older hybrid rolled his eyes. "Yeah."

"Please come in," Augur invited them solemnly.

They did so and with amusement, Liam noticed how Nikki watched everything with fascination. "Can I look around?" she asked, her eyes glowing electric blue in anticipation.

"Be my guest," Augur said kindly.

With a wide grin on her face, she went to explore.

"That child is just like her parents," he told Liam. "She is... cute."

"Yes she is," Liam agreed fondly.

Augur gave his friend a knowing look, Liam’s tender tone not lost to him. "You know, Liam, at the growing speed of you hybrids, Nikki will be--"

"Augur!" Liam interrupted him, annoyed, blushing in a deep red.

"What?" the genius asked innocently.

Da’an’s protector shook his head and, shrugging, he followed Nikki. She stood before a table, looking intently at the beautiful figure of an infant that Augur had left there alone.

"Do you like it?" Liam asked after a while.

She nodded.

"Then it’s yours," Augur said, holding the figure and placing it in Nikki’s hands.

"For me?" she asked in disbelief, blushing... blue to Augur’s astonishment. "Thank you," she whispered in awe and so grateful and sweet was her stare that his heart melted.

"You... are... welcome," he said, strangely embarrassed.

"Yes, thank you, Augur," Liam said sincerely and then looked at him in a familiar way that the genius did not like. "I need your help," he began, "Da’an wants to celebrate Christmas and asked me to get everything and--"

"You want me to get them for you," Augur finished, rolling his eyes. "Will he celebrate Christmas?" he asked then, surprise in his voice.

"Yes and please," the protector begged with a lost puppy look. "You know that I don’t have experience in that sort of thing.

"Okay, okay, just don’t look at me like that. Besides, who can blame you; after all, I am the best," Augur said, raising both hands. "Just give me a couple of days," he added.

"Thank you," Liam said, chuckling.

Nikki stared puzzled at them and smiled, realizing that they were very good friends. Suddenly, an alarm went off. "What’s that?" she asked.

The genius grinned. "Lunch is ready. Do you like Italian?"

Liam nodded with a smile and Nikki tilted her head, wondering what ‘Italian’ was.

******

Susan was so concentrated on her computer, that she didn’t hear the door opening, nor feel someone approaching her... until a pair of hands gently lay on her shoulders. Startled, she stiffened, but immediately relaxed, leaning her head back.

"You have been here for hours," Da’an said softly. "Why do you not... take a break?" he suggested.

"It’s okay, I am almost finished," she said, stretching her arms. "I only have to send it to Joshua’s terminal," she explained, returning her attention to the screen.

Da’an withdrew his hands and looked intently at her. She was working with a highly advanced program and at incredibly speed.

"That’s it. I am ready!" she exclaimed five minutes later. "Joshua should give me roses for this," she joked, rising from the seat and turning to him. "What is it?" she asked at his thoughtful stare.

He tilted his head. "I am intrigued. Why do you work for Joshua Doors when you are qualified to work... for the Companions?" he asked.

She smiled. "Joshua is my best friend. How could I have left him alone to face Zo’or, I mean before her change. Don’t you ever wondered why he always seemed to be very well... informed?" she asked mischievously.

He looked at her through the corner of the eye. "Yes... but I always believed it was because of the Resistance," he said. "Now I see I was wrong. You are a threat to us," he added seriously, but unable to hide his amusement from her.

She nodded and then turned serious as neck began to ache. "Please allow me," he said, taking both hands to the base of her neck.

With a relieved sigh, she leaned on him. "Are you mad at me?" she asked after a while.

He blushed blue and lowered his hands to her shoulders and gently forced her to turn. "Never, beloved," he whispered, leaning forward and kissing her.

******

Later in the afternoon, a well-wrapped and sneezing Joshua Doors arrived to the Embassy. He was about to enter when he heard the unmistakable sound of a shuttle leaving interdimensional space. He raised his head just in time to see a ship disappearing behind the tall building. With a wide smile on his face –and a sneeze- he walked in. There, in the main lobby, he found Susan.

"Susan, thank you!" he said sincerely, giving his dearest friend a bear hug. "If it were not for you..."

"Hey, Josh, it’s okay. You are my best friend, don’t you? By the way, I have something to tell you," she said with a smile and once he released her, she looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "Your cold is worst," she noted, concerned. "Come on, let’s go and see Doctor Belman," she added, taking his arm.

******

Lili expertly landed the craft in the bay and waving her hands over the controls, she deactivated the virtual shield. Immediately Zo’or and Sandoval descended and walked away. Lili watched them leave and shrugged, wondering why the Synod leader always seemed... thrilled each time he came to the Embassy.

*Maybe it’s because of Nikki,* she thought, knowing how sweet the child was.

******

Feeling Joshua’s presence within the building, Zo’or quickly walked through the corridor towards the elevator. She really needed to see him, as ridiculous as it was, she had not been able to forget... his scarf. Shaking her head, she and a puzzled Agent Sandoval reached the elevator and pushed the button. After second, the door opened, but it was not empty. Inside was a couple and they were so concentrated in each other -the woman was tenderly fixing the man’s scarf- that they did not notice the Synod Leader and his implant. Sandoval cleared his throat and politely dismissed them. Zo’or mentally smiled at the human’s startled expressions, when suddenly it hit her. Now she knew what was the problem with Joshua’s scarf. It was a gift form Captain Marquette... and he had dared to wear it!

******

"I can’t believe Doctor Belman injected me too!" Susan exclaimed, annoyed, rubbing her arm.

"Well, that means there is justice in this world," Joshua teased her.

They had just left the infirmary and were going to the audience chamber. They stopped before an elevator. "Yeah? Wait until Zo’or sees your scarf," the redhead replied mischievously.

"What do you mean?" he asked, puzzled, eyeing his white-blue scarf.

"Don’t you remember who gave it to you and when?" she asked, turning serious.

He blinked and –as the memory came to him- he opened his eyes wide. "Lili!" he exclaimed, blushing. The scarf had been Lili’s gift and he could still remember how... grateful he had been then...

Suddenly, he felt Zo’or’s presence approaching; without losing time, he took of the scarf and placed it around his friend’s neck.

"But Josh--"

She could not finish as the door of the elevator slid open... to reveal the Synod Leader and her attaché.

"Zo’or, Agent Sandoval," Susan and Joshua saluted them and entered.

"Susan, Mr. Doors," Zo’or addressed them, her gaze focused on the scarf and with such a cold tone that Joshua shivered.

"Miss Bluestone Mr. Doors," Sandoval said then, Zo’or’s icy tone not lost to him.

Ten seconds later, the elevator stopped and the door opened. "Nice scarf," Zo’or said dryly and quickly stepped out, followed by a confused Sandoval.

"What are you waiting for?" Susan asked, pushing a shocked Joshua out. "Go after her!"

With a last desperate glance at his friend, he ran behind the annoyed Synod Leader.

******

To Da’an’s surprise, an unusually agitated Zo’or hurried inside the chamber, followed by Agent Sandoval, Joshua Doors and Susan. Without a word, his fellow Taelon walked to the virtual glass window and fixed her gaze outside, Agent Sandoval stayed on his spot and Joshua Doors looked sadly –and slightly annoyed- at the Synod Leader.

(What happened?) Da’an mentally asked Susan.

(I think Zo’or is jealous) she answered, giving him a troubled look. (But it’s not Joshua’s fault, it’s just that he is... well... distracted) she added and told him about the scarf problem.

The North American Companion tilted his head, considering Susan’s explanation. As ridiculous

as it was, he could understand Zo’or’s reaction. Definitely, he would not be too thrilled if Susan began to wear her former lover’s presents... But still... Joshua Doors had not act with bad intentions... and with Christmas so near, there was not place for quarrels...

He smiled as ad idea occurred to him. He looked at a clearly puzzled Sandoval and raised a hand. "That would be all, Agent Sandoval."

"But Zo’or..."

"You already heard me," Da’an insisted in his North American Companion tone, that caused the attaché to cleared his throat and Susan to roll her eyes.

"Yes, Da’an," Sandoval said and after making the salute, he left the chamber.

Then, the Taelon rose from his seat and approached his chosen one. "We shall leave now," he told her, holding her arm.

"But Josh..."

"Please, humor me," he insisted, looking at her with his deep blue eyes.

"Okay," she accepted, completely defeated by his intense stare.

He smiled. (I have a plan,) he thought to her. With his free hand he gently took the scarf from her neck and dropped it to the floor. He guided her to the exit. Once outside, he lay a glowing hand over the wall and, to Susan’s astonishment a door appeared, sealing the room.

"You lock them in!" she exclaimed, amused. You are evil!"

"No, I am not evil, I am just... practical," he stated innocently. "They must talk until their differences are solved... without interruptions," he added emphasizing the last part.

"Thank God you belong to the diplomatic caste," she said in a melodramatic tone.

"Indeed," he agreed, his eyes sparkling mischievously. "Come with me," he invited her.

"Where?" She asked with curiosity.

"To the dining room," he answered, sliding his arm around her now slender waist. "You were so concentrated in your work, that you skipped your meals. You need to eat."

"But I am not--"

"Should I lock you too?" he interrupted her with a sideways look.

"Well... that depends..." she said with a bemused raised eyebrow. "Would my Companion be with me?"

Da’an blushed blue. "Always."

To his delight, she smiled and lay her head on his shoulder. "On a second thought, I am hungry," she confessed.

"Is Chinese acceptable?" he asked.

"Of course," she said with a wink.

******

Inside the audience chamber –still completely unaware of Da’an’s plan- Joshua stood behind a stiff and sparkling Synod Leader, don’t knowing how to approach her. "Please," he whispered. "It’s just a scarf!"

Zo’or did not say a word, but sparkled brighter.

"This is stupid!" he exclaimed, taking both hands to his head.

The Taelon rudely turned and recovered her façade. "Are you calling me stupid?" she asked in disbelief.

"No, of course not. I--"

"I shall not be insulted by an... inferior human," she stated, her face deadly serious.

Joshua stared at her in shock and, in spite of how much he loved her, he lost his temper. "Well, if that is what you think, this inferior human will not annoy you with his presence. I am leaving!" he yelled angrily and deeply hurt. Before a startled Zo’or could stop him, he strode to the exit... to bump into a locked door. "Please, unlock this door," he said.

"Door?" Zo’or repeated, surprised. She approached and tried to open it... to no avail.

"Well?" he asked dryly.

"I cannot open it," she said, annoyed. She went to Da’an’s chair and waved her hand to activate the data stream. Nothing happened. "It seems we are trapped and isolated," she explained. "This must be Da’an’s making."

"What!" he exclaimed agitatedly. "Great!" With a sigh he walked to the window, as if trying to stay away from her and, feeling suddenly very tired, he sat on the floor, leaning his back against the wall.

What had happened? He had waited the whole day to see Zo’or and now...

He closed his eyes and an unbidden tear slid down his cheek.

Realizing how much she had hurt him, Zo’or lost her disguise and bowed her head, ashamed. Only then she noticed the scarf laying on the floor. She picked it up and went to Joshua. She silently sat by his side and gently dried his eyes. Startled, he opened them and seeing the scarf in her hands, he tried to rise, but the alien stopped him. "Please," she said softly. "I do not wish to discuss."

"Neither do I," he whispered, laying his now aching head on her lap.

Sparkling brighter, she took a hand to his head and tenderly stroked his hair, making the pain –of his head and his heart- disappear. "You do not understand," she said. "It is not the scarf, but what represents. I have all your memories, Joshua, all of them.

Joshua raised his head and met her almost transparent eyes. "That is part of the past. I can’t change it," he replied, stroking her cheek. "But you are my present and my future," he added, leaning forward and kissing her.

(Please wait) Zo’or abruptly thought to him, gently pulling him back. "You are right," she said, showing him the scarf. "This is the past." She recovered her human appearance and with a satisfied smirk, she threw it away across the room.

"Can we continue?" he asked with a mischievous grin.

"Not yet," she told him, and to Joshua’s amazement and amusement, she took a small branch of mistletoe out of her pocket and waved it over his head.

"I see you are familiar with some of our Christmas traditions," he noted with a raised eyebrow.

"Of course," she said sweetly, losing her façade again...

******

In the dining room, Susan had just finished her meal and was about to rise from the table, when Da’an suddenly stiffened and lost his human appearance.

"Da’an!"

"I am fine," he soothed her, recovering his disguise. "And so are Zo’or and your friend."

Susan smiled. "Thank God! Let’s go now and--"

"I believe we would not be... welcome," he interrupted her, holding her hand.

She opened her eyes wide in surprise and quickly withdrew her hand. "I see," she said, blushing in a deep red.

"Sorry," Da’an apologized, amused by her reaction.

"Yeah, sure," she muttered, rolling her eyes.

"Pink suits you," he teased her.

She blinked and tilted her head, unconsciously mimicking his movement. "Well, at least I don’t fade away," she replied in his same tone... and with burning cheeks.

"Do not speak to me like that. I am the North American Companion," he said seriously but with sparkling eyes.

Susan didn’t buy it. "No, you are my Companion," she said, rising from her chair and leaning forward. "My beloved Companion," repeated, kissing him... causing Da’an to lost his disguise.

(See, you do fade) she whispered mischievously in his mind.

He mentally rolled his eyes.

******

Once that Da’an felt enough time had passed, he and Susan returned to the audience chamber. There, they found Zo’or and Joshua standing by the window... together.

"I am glad you have solved your differences," the North American Companion said innocently.

The Synod leader and the Representative turned. "Your scheme worked," Zo’or admitted, giving him a do-not-dare-to-lock-me-again serious look.

Da’an smiled and solemnly returned to his seat. "Are you not satisfied with the results of my... little scheme... as you called it?" he asked, tilting his head.

As an answer, the female Taelon blushed blue and Joshua’s face turned crimson red.

Susan chuckled and looked at Da’an. (You are enjoying this) she thought to him.

He smiled at her and slightly nodded.

"Where is Nikki?" Joshua asked then.

"Yes, where is your child?" Zo’or asked Da’an.

"Our daughter is with Major Kincaid," he explained and was about to add something else, when he felt a familiar laughter back in his mind. He grinned and so did Susan. "They have returned," he informed.

Confirming his words, ten minutes later, Nikki entered the audience chamber. Behind her, came Liam carrying a box.

"Mom, Dad!" Nikki exclaimed happily, going to her mother.

Susan bent over her and kissed her. "Hello, Sparky," the redhead said sweetly, rubbing her child’s cold nose.

Nikki laughed and threw her arms around Susan’s neck. Da’an approached them and bent too. "Welcome, little one," he said tenderly.

Nikki released her mother and hugged him. "Dad."

"Where were you?" he asked softly.

"We went to visit Liam’s friend," the girl explained. "He lives in a church and we ate something called Italian."

Da’an blinked, puzzled and looked at his protector.

"Spaghetti," Liam mouthed.

The North American Companion nodded and then, feeling Zo’or’s anxiety, curiosity... and amusement, he stroked Nikki’s head and showed her his guests. (Say hello to our guests) he mentally encouraged her.

Nikki opened her eyes wide, noticing Zo’or and Uncle Joshua for the first time. "Uncle Joshua," she greeted him, going where he was.

Joshua grinned and lifted her up. "Hello, little carrot head princes," he teased the child. "I was beginning to think I was invisible," he added in a mocking hurt tone.

Nikki smiled and kissed his cheek. "Oh no, I can see you," she said seriously.

"Of course you do," he said, amused and carefully put her down.

The child nodded gratefully and turned to Zo’or. "Sinahhuii Eurahh, Zo’or," she greeted the Synod leader in perfect Eunoia, salute included.

Zo’or could not help but blush blue and kindly returned the salute. "Did your day prove to be useful?" she asked Da’an’s daughter.

Nikki nodded and to Zo’or’s surprise –and the others’ amusement- the girl took the female Taelon hand and guided her where Liam stood.

"Please, Liam," the child said.

Liam smiled and placed the box on the floor. Nikki opened it. "Look," she said, excited as she began to take things out from the box. Soon a confused Zo’or had her hands filled with sparkling spheres, garlands and all sort of Christmas decorations. "These are for the Embassy," Nikki explained. "Liam’s friend gave them to us."

The Synod Leader shoot Liam a suspicious glance and then looked at Da’an. "What is the meaning of this?" she asked, returning the things to Nikki.

Da’an smiled. "I... we will celebrate Christmas," he said, gesturing with a hand.

"And you are invited," Susan added with a wink.

******

That night, Susan lay on her bed and with a content sigh she closed her eyes.

"You are tired," Da’an stated softly, sitting by her side and leaning his back against the headboard.

"A little," she admitted, moving closer and opening her eyes again. "Thank you so much," she said, looking up at him. "Christmas is one of my favorite celebrations, and now, with you and Nikki..."

She did not finish with words, but with a wide smile on her face.

Da’an smiled back and took a hand to her head. "You do not need to thank me; feeling your joy and Nikki’s convinced me it was a good idea."

Susan chuckled. "Oh, but it is so much more than a ‘good idea’. In spite of the Faith, Christmas is a time for renewal and love. It fills our heart with hope and reminds us that we are not alone, that we must care about the neighbor" she explained. "It is a perfect moment for little miracles," she added with a wink.

"I see," Da’an said thoughtfully, "But indeed it is a good idea," he noted, but immediately regretted his comment at the slightly disappointed look she gave him.

"Da’an!" she exclaimed and rolled her eyes. "Well, I suppose you can say so," she sighed and grinned again. "And you are right, Nikki is excited about it. I wonder what can we give her, though."

He blushed blue and stared at her with an incredible tenderness. "You is all that Nikki and I want. You are our most precious gift," he stated.

She just blinked, unable to put into words what she felt in that moment.

Da’an nodded in understanding. "Sleep now," he said and turned to the night table to deactivate the lights, but a book lying there caught his attention. Curious, he opened it... and lost his human appearance for a second. It was not a book, but Susan’s photo album.

"Oh no," she said, embarrassed, sitting on the bed and trying –unsuccessfully- to take it away from him. "There is nothing for you there," she added.

He looked mischievously at her and smiling in delight –and not without amusement- he started to see it.

"Okay, okay," Susan said, defeated, lying back and throwing the covers over her head. "You can laugh."

He tilted his head. "Why should I do that... If you look so... cute?" he teased her and then turned serious. "It intrigues me the human habit of taking pictures and collect them," he noted.

Susan showed up her head through the covers and smiled. "Each picture represents a special moment," she explained. "They help us to remember our most precious memories. Don’t you have anything like this?"

He shook his head. "No we do not need help to remember, as the Commonality keeps all our experiences and memories. In that way, we never forget," he said.

"Ah, but it’s not the same. Take my album, for example. Look, here I am with my mom and dad," she said, indicating a big picture of a little girl and two smiling adults. With a dreamy expression on her face, Susan closed her eyes and continued. "Because of my father’s job, my parents traveled a lot, so I almost lived with Joshua, but always, they managed to get home for Christmas..." she finished in a whisper, falling asleep.

Da’an closed the album and looked intently at her. Through their link he could feel her happiness at the memory, but also her hidden sadness for not being able to spend the celebration with her parents and for not having told them about Nikki and about him. He left the album on a side and smiled tenderly as an idea occurred to him. Now he knew what would be his Christmas present for Susan and Nikki. (Sleep now, beloved) he sweetly echoed in her mind, turning the lights of and joining his mind with hers...

******

The next morning, Susan woke up with a pair of deep blue eyes and a sweet grin fixed upon her. Susan smiled back and, stretching her arms, she sat. "Good morning, Sparky," she said tenderly.

Nikki laughed and climb to the bed. "Hello, mom," the child greeted her with a kiss.

"I see you dressed by yourself," Susan noted, fixing Nikki’s sweater. "Where is your dad?" she asked, not feeling his presence within the Embassy.

"He left a couple of hours ago and asked me to let you sleep and to see that you eat your breakfast," Nikki informed her solemnly.

"Yeah," Susan said, rolling her eyes. "And you, little one, did you eat your breakfast?" she asked, tickling her daughter’s belly.

"Yes," the child said between giggles. "Mom, I want to show you something," Nikki said then, taking a small figure out of her pocket. "Look," she said, sharing her treasure with her mother.

Susan’s heart melted and a tear appeared in her eyes when she saw the figure of the infant Jesus in her girl’s hands. "Let’s do something," the redhead began to say, "I will take a shower and eat," she quickly added at Nikki’s Taelon look, "and then I will tell you his story."

To her delight, Nikki’s eyes glowed in wonder. "Do you know his name, mom," she asked, marveled.

Susan smiled sweetly and rose from the bed. "Yes, but promise me you will wait here," she said.

"I promise," Nikki said solemnly, the figure tightly held in her little hands.

Susan nodded, rubbed the child’s nose and taking her clothes, she went to the bathroom.

******

Da’an’s shuttle landed swiftly near a beautiful house. The North American Companion and his protector descended and headed to the door. They rang the doorbell. A minute later, a serious butler opened and, in spite of all his training, his jaw fell when he saw a Taelon standing in the doorway.

"Good morning," Da’an said solemnly. "May I speak with Mr. Eric Bluestone?"

******

On the Mothership’s bridge, Zo’or was seated on her throne-like chair, her hands slightly moving. She was still surprised by Da’an’s decision to celebrate Christmas... and by the redheaded woman’s invitation... She tilted her head. Did Joshua’s friend believe she was as sentimental as Da’an? Somehow Zo’or knew that was not the case. No, Susan had invited her because of her relationship with Joshua... and because she had wanted to.

The Synod Leader shrugged and a mischievous grin appeared on her face. Perhaps that was not a bad idea... after all. She knew how interesting some traditions could be...

She blushed blue and her smile widened... Besides, she knew the perfect gift for Joshua. The only problem was that she would need help to get it. Having made up her mind and checking that she would not be needed in the bridge for a couple of hours; she rose from her chair and walked her way to her chamber.

******

"...And that’s what Christmas is really about," Susan finished to tell her story to a marveled Nikki.

"We celebrate his birthday!" the girl exclaimed, looking at the figure.

"Yes," Susan said with a smile, going to her closet, and after a moment of searching, she came out with a box.

Nikki tilted her head, denoting curiosity, and opened her eyes wide when she saw its content. Carefully wrapped figures lay there: a beautiful kneeling woman, a man in the same position, three elegant men carrying little boxes, a shepherd, a camel, a donkey and a sheep. With her mother’s help, she took them out and recreated the Nativity scene over a table. "Where is the child?" Nikki asked, looking inside the box.

"I lost it," Susan answered sadly.

"Here," the little girl offered, placing her own figure in the center. "Now the crèche is complete," she said softly, her eyes sparkling happily.

Susan smiled and, deeply touched, stroked her child’s red hair and hugged her. "I love you so much, Nikki," she whispered sweetly.

"I love you too, Mom," Nikki said, almost losing her human appearance.

The tender moment was rudely interrupted by an incoming communication. Releasing Nikki, Susan went to answer it and her jaw fell open in amazement when she saw who it was. "Zo’or!" she exclaimed.

The clearly amused Synod Leader nodded and raised a delicate hand. "I need your assistance," the Taelon said with her ever-present smirk. "I need you to... get certain things for me."

"Sure... but Agent Sandoval--"

"...is not suitable for this job," Zo’or finished for her. "Can you come to the Mothership," the Taelon asked and then told a surprised Susan what she wanted. "I can send you a shuttle in an hour," the alien added. "Is it that enough time?"

Susan blinked and nodded. "Yes," the redhead answered with a smile.

"Good," the Taelon said and bowing her head, she closed the link.

Susan shook her head and turned to a curious Nikki. "Well, Nikki, it seems we will have to go shopping." As an answer, Nikki’s eyes glowed electric blue.

******

Exactly one hour later, Susan and Nikki boarded Lili’s shuttle.

"Hi, Lili," they greeted the Captain.

"Susan, hey, Nikki," Lili said. "So why are you going to see Zo’or?" she asked, concerned.

Susan shrugged and smiled reassuringly. "Don’t worry, she... he just wanted me to get some things for him," the redhead said, showing Lili the bag she carried.

"Does Da’an know you are going to the Mothership?" Lili asked then.

"He was not in the Embassy," Susan said and sighed. "He will not be pleased, though."

*I bet not,* Lili thought and turned to the controls.

After ten minutes of flying, they arrived to their destination. They thanked Lili, bid her good bye, and descended from the craft.

Agent Sandoval was already waiting for them. "Miss Bluestone, Nikki, follow me please."

Susan smiled and, taking Nikki’s hand, they went with him to Zo’or’s private chamber.

"Welcome," Zo’or greeted them, dismissing the Agent and closing the door.

Susan and Nikki looked curiously at the Synod leader’s room. It was just as big as a human chamber, furnished only with the standard throne-like chair and a table.

"Wow, you have quite a view here," the redhead whispered in awe, walking to the virtual glass window, still holding Nikki’s hand.

Zo’or stared in amusement at them, surprised of how such a simple thing like a view could give so much pleasure to the woman. She focused her attention on the child and smiled. Feeling her mother’s wonder, Nikki was glowing Taelon blue.

After a couple of minutes the female Taelon tilted her head. "Did you bring it?" she asked.

Susan turned with a grin on her face. "Of course," she answered.

Zo’or nodded and, waving a hand, two more chairs appeared.

"Thank you," the redhead said, releasing her daughter and taking the offered seat. At Susan’s nod, Nikki took the other chair.

"I wish to see it," Zo’or said then.

Susan opened her bag and took out... a scarf. She gave it to the Taelon. Zo’or eyed it carefully. It was soft and in different shades of green, Joshua’s favorite color. It was perfect... but it was not enough... something was missing.

"You dodn’t like it?" Susan asked at Zo’or’s serious face.

"It is acceptable, but..."

"Too impersonal... maybe too... cold?" Susan finished for her and gave her a strange look. "I have a solution for that, but I don’t know if you will like it."

"What do you mean?" Zo’or asked with curiosity.

Susan grinned. "Well, it is known that the best gifts are the ones made by us... with all our love," she explained, taking more things from her bag and placing them on Zo’or’s lap.

Zo’or watched in confusion a ball of green wool and two knitting needles. When Susan’s suggestion sunk in, Zo’or stared at her in disbelief. "Are you telling me... to knit the scarf... by myself?" she asked, wondering for a second if Da’an’s chosen one had lost her mind. ""I am the Synod Leader!" she exclaimed, giving her an are-you-insane-look.

"Yes," Susan said simply, amused by Zo’or’s reaction. "It’s just a suggestion, but it is really easy and even though I am not an expert, I can teach you," the redhead offered. "and Joshua will love it," she added with a mischievous grin.

Zo’or looked at her through the corner of her eye and then eyed the things with renewed interest. Maybe it was not such an insane idea...

"If I agree... no one shall know!" the alien stated.

"Of course not," Susan quickly replied. "Besides, no one would believe me."

"I promise I won’t tell," a serious Nikki added.

Susan smiled tenderly at her daughter. Then, she rose and took the needles and the wool from Zo’or’s lap. "Look," she began to say, "It’s really easy, all you have to do is--"

"Wait," Zo’or interrupted her, rising from her seat. "There is a faster way," she added, extending her arm.

Susan blinked and realizing what Zo’or was suggesting, it was her turn to look at the Synod Leader in disbelief. "I don’t know... I--"

"I will only seek for the necessary information," Zo’or explained reassuringly.

After a moment of hesitation, Susan nodded and raised her hand too. The sharing began. Three minutes later, they lowered their hands and stared at each other.

"I am glad you love Joshua so much," Susan said softly, breaking the silence.

"I too am impressed by your strong feelings towards Da’an," Zo’or said, blushing blue. Then, feeling strangely uncomfortable by Susan’s kindness, she shook her head. "I have the necessary information," the Taelon said. "Indeed you are not an expert," she added with a smirk.

"Told you," Susan replied with a wink.

******

A couple of hours later, Susan and Nikki returned to the Embassy... to find Da’an -and Liam- waiting for them in the shuttle bay. He looked coldly at Susan and then lowered a softer gaze to his daughter. "There is a delicious meal waiting for you in the dining room," he said kindly. "Why do you not go with Liam while I speak with your mother?"

Nikki nodded and went with her father’s protector.

Once they were gone, Susan felt Da’an’s anger through their link, and she nervously stroked her hair and bit her lip. "I--"

"Not here," the Taelon interrupted her dryly. "Follow me."

With a cold feeling in her heart, she went with him to their chamber. They entered and Da’an did not say a word. He stayed a few steps away from her and gave her such a stern stare, that she quickly lowered her eyes.

"Should I... should I... sleep... in a... guest room... tonight?" she finally asked in a barely audible voice. "Please forgive me," she added, struggling to hold back her tears.

Da’an sighed and his gaze softened, his anger suddenly disappearing; he simply could not stand her guilt and misery. How could he ever be mad at her? Maybe he overreacted, but did she not know that he would join the Void if anything happened to her or Nikki? But then, how he could ever share with her his terrible nightmare?

"I am so... sorry," she said sincerely. "It’s just that I knew it was safe for us to go to the Mothership. I would never risk Nikki, please believe me. I..."

"I know," he said softly, getting closer and embracing her. He gently pulled her back and kindly held her chin and forced her to meet his eyes. "Please, do not leave me again without telling me where you are going."

"I am so sorry," she repeated tenderly. "I promise... and I would have told you, but you were not here," Susan apologized.

"I had... an important... meeting to attend," he vaguely explained and tilted his head. "What did Zo’or want with you, anyway?" he asked with curiosity.

She smiled in amusement. "You wouldn’t believe it," she said and in order to forget the incident, Da’an cancelled all his reunions and they spent the rest of the day together... with Nikki.

******

The next day in the afternoon, Susan found herself unusually alone in her room, as Da’an had to go to the Mothership and Nikki had gone out with Liam to get the rest of the Christmas decorations. She smiled. Major Kincaid and her child were good friends and sometimes it surprised her how well they got along together...

Shrugging, Susan held her photo album and sat on her favorite armchair. She opened it and seeing a picture of her parents, a sudden wave of melancholy filled her heart. How much she wished to tell them everything about Da’an and Nikki, to introduce them their only grandchild...

"Well, maybe someday," she whispered, turning the page. The smile returned to her face when she saw a picture of her when she was baby, and remembered how much it had amused Da’an...

Susan suddenly blinked and closed the album. Indeed Da’an had been really intrigued by the album and the pictures...

Her smile widened as an idea came to her mind. Now she knew what would be Da’an’s present for Christmas. Without losing time, she rose and went to gather all the things she needed...

******

"Thank you, Augur!" Liam exclaimed, seeing all the beautiful decorations the genius had gathered for him. "Do you like them, Nikki?" he asked his little friend.

"Yes!" she answered, her eyes shinning happily.

"Yeah, well, what can I say. I am still the best," Augur noted proudly. Then, he gave Liam a piece of paper and a sealed envelope. "Here," Augur said, indicating the paper. "This is the address of a friend that sells the best Christmas trees in town... upon other things," he added with a wink. "And this," he said, indicating the envelope with a mischievous spark in his eyes, "is just for you... let’s say it’s my Christmas present. Don’t open it until the 25^th."

Liam gave him a suspicious glance and put the envelope in his pocket.

"Will you come home for Christmas?" Nikki asked Augur.

He exchanged a look with Liam and smiled kindly at the cute child. "I am afraid I... can’t go," he apologized and, seeing Nikki’s sad expression, he took her hand. "Hey, but you can visit me at any time," he offered.

Nikki nodded and smiled.

Suddenly, the alarms of the elevator went off.

"Who its it?" Liam asked slightly worried.

Augur checked the monitor and turned serious. "It’s Julia."

Liam sighed, concerned, and turned to Nikki. "Okay, Nikki. Do you remember what your mother told you?"

"Yes," she said seriously. "I must not tell who my father is."

Liam smiled and stroked her head reassuringly.

Seconds later, the doors slid open and a rather excited Julia stepped out. "Hi, I was..."

She abruptly stopped, noticing Nikki. "Who is she?" Julia asked. "Are you babysitting now?" she teased them.

"She is... Liam’s niece, Nikki," Augur answered.

Julia smiled at her and continued. "I was wondering... The Resistance has been quite silent for a while. My cell has not received a single message from you, Liam. What’s going on?"

Liam smiled reassuringly. "Julia, it’s Christmas, we all need to rest," he told her.

Julia shook her head and sighed. "So what. Do you think the Taelons will give us a break?

Seeing Nikki’s troubled expression by Julia’s words, Liam exchanged a worried glance with Augur and tried to calm the agitated resistance member. "Julia, please..."

"No, Liam, don’t you see it? This is the perfect moment. They are not expecting us to attack during the holidays. We should act soon before they create more monsters."

At her words, Nikki stiffened and bit her lip for not to scream, she was not a monster!

"Monsters?" Augur asked, slightly looking at a now serious -and annoyed- Liam.

"Yes, hybrids," Julia explained. "Didn’t you hear the rumors? There are hybrid children among us. We must find those freaks and..."

"No!" Nikki suddenly yelled, unable to stop herself. "They are not monsters!" she added, crying, and before a startled Liam could hold her, she ran to the elevator.

"Nikki!" he shouted, going after her. "Can you stop the elevator, Augur?" he asked, desperate.

"No, we will have to wait till she gets up there."

"I am sorry for scaring your niece," Julia apologized sincerely. "I--"

She abruptly went quiet at the murderous look Liam gave her.

"The elevator is now descending," Augur informed.

******

The doors of the lift slid open and an agitated –and scared- Nikki hurried out of it. Crying, she ran towards the exit, all that she wanted was to get away from there... from the woman who had called her monster. "I am not a monster," she yelled.

"Of course you are not, little one," someone said kindly.

Startled, Nikki stopped running and looked around. Seated on a nearby bench, there was a man with long hair, wearing a black coat. He turned his bearded face to her and looked at her with incredibly tender eyes. "Why are you crying, little one?" he asked softly.

Nikki blinked in surprise at his voice, it was so similar to her father’s. She tilted her red head and, even though her mother had told her not to talk to strangers, she somehow felt the man meant no harm to her. After a little hesitation, she approached him and sat by his side, her short legs hanging above the bench. "Someone... called me... a monster," the child exclaimed in a shy whisper.

He smiled. "I believe that person is wrong," he stated.

Nikki shook her head. "You don’t understand," she said sadly. "The woman is right... I am... different."

The man chuckled. "Oh, but all of us are different from each other, little one," he replied. "All of us."

Nikki gave him a puzzled look and before she could reply to him, a loud "NIKKI" caught her attention. She raised her head and saw Liam and Augur coming towards her. She waved her hand to them and turned to the man to say good bye... but he was gone.

"Here you are," Liam whispered, relieved, sitting next to the girl and hugging her. "I will never allow anyone to harm you."

Nikki hugged him back, throwing her arms around his neck. "I am sorry for worrying you, Liam," she apologized, meeting his eyes. "I am not... a... monster," she said softly.

"Of course not," he said kindly, mentally wanting to kill Julia for having hurt Nikki in such a cruel way. "You are a cute little girl," he added, cleaning her face with a handkerchief.

Nikki looked at him with her deep blue eyes and with a solemn expression on her face. "I am different, Liam. I will never be like my mom," she stated seriously, a sad acceptance in her voice.

Liam tenderly stroked her cheek, and seeing her so sad, he made up his mind. "Nikki," he said softly. "Look at my hands. I am different... like you," he finished, showing her his glowing palms.

Nikki opened her eyes wide and, for a second, her human appearance faded, revealing her Taelon heritage. "You are like me," she repeated in awe, showing her own glowing hands to him. "I love you, Liam," she said sweetly, hugging him again.

"I love you too," he said, deeply touched. Then, he patted her head. "Now, say good bye to Augur and let’s go to get that tree."

Nikki nodded and smiled brightly.

******

Below the church, Julia watched Liam and Augur enter the elevator and she sighed. It had not been her intention to scare the poor child...

No! She shook her head. All was the Taelon’s fault. This was the perfect moment to strike them –or at least shake them a bit- and Liam didn’t want to do anything...

If only...

Julia abruptly stopped, looked at Augur’s computer and smiled mischievously. Maybe the Taelons could be shaken after all...

Without losing time, the resistance member went to the terminal. "Computer," she said seriously.

Immediately holo-Lili appeared... in her Santa’s suit. "Oh, I am sorry, but my dear Augur is not here," she said.

"I know," Julia said, taking a seat and connecting her global to the main system. "I just need a copy of the virus that attacked the Taelon computers. I know Augur modified it."

"Yes. He made it less lethal and added a security subroutine to make the virus active only for an hour, after that time, it self destroys," the computer explained. "But I cannot give it to you."

"Oh yes you can," Julia replied, downloading a program in Augur’s main computer.

Holo-Lili yawned and blinked. "I am... tired... I will take a nap."

"Good," Julia said, as the image of Captain Marquette vanished. A few minutes later, the resistance member had a copy of the virus in her global...

******

The days passed quickly and soon Christmas Eve arrived...

In the Washington Taelon Embassy, everything was ready to celebrate that important holiday...

"Well, what do you think?" Liam asked Da’an, indicating the decoration of the audience chamber, specially the beautiful tree.

The North American Companion tilted his head and smiled. "You did a good job, Liam," the Taelon answered, his protector’s pride not lost to him.

A wide grin appeared on the hybrid’s face. "Thank you, but I had a little help," he said mischievously.

"Little indeed," Da’an noted with a tender spark in his eyes.

"Do you have everything ready for tonight?" Liam asked, giving him a knowing look.

The Taelon rolled his eyes and nodded. "Yes. Susan’s parents agreed to come here tonight."

Liam chuckled. "Agreed is an understatement. They are dying to meet Nikki and to see Susan," he said and continued. "Ah... If only I would have had a camera when the butler opened the door... and when you told Mr. Bluestone the truth..."

Da’an grinned. "Yes, I must admit their expressions were... amusing," he said innocently.

******

Onboard the Mothership...

Zo’or was in her private chamber, definitely in a bad mood. There were only a few hours left and still she had not finished Joshua’s present. She eyed critically the scarf she had been working on and, frustrated, put it to the side. She sighed. What madness had made her accept Susan’s suggestion?

In that very moment -to her annoyance- Agent Sandoval abruptly entered her room. Nearly with light speed, the Synod Leader hid the scarf behind her back.

"Zo’or, as you--"

He stopped and stared at her, as if something had called his attention. Then, at the Taelon’s icy glare, he instinctively went a step back and cleared his throat. He continued. "As you requested, the volunteers have returned with their reports. It seems that the Resistance will remain quiet for the holidays."

"Good, she said. "That is all. Keep me informed," she added, gesturing with a hand.

Sandoval nodded, made the Taelon salute –which Zo’or did not bother to answer- and turned towards the door. He had walked a couple of steps when Zo’or called him again.

"Agent Sandoval," she began, tilting her head with curiosity. "What will you do for Christmas?"

Sandoval stiffened and blinked in surprise at the alien's unexpected question. It had been a long time since he had celebrated Christmas... or any other holiday. Hi shook his head and shrugged. "I don’t celebrate," he said seriously.

Zo’or looked enigmatically at him and raised her hand. "Meet me in the shuttle bay in six hours. You can go now."

Sandoval nodded and left.

Once alone, Zo’or grabbed the scarf... and continued knitting.

******

Back on Earth...

A frustrated Joshua Doors was walking through the street, desperately trying to find the perfect gift for Zo’or, when something in a jewelry store caught his attention. He approached the showcase and opened his eyes wide and a grin lit up his face. It was just too good to be truth. After hours –and days- of searching, he finally found what he was looking for! A delicate crystal figure could be seen through the window. An incredible as it was, it showed a little girl, with her head bowed, about to walk into a cyclist and a boy running to stop her. Without losing time, a now happy Joshua entered the shop to buy it.

******

"Here, mom. This is the last one," Nikki told Susan, giving her a picture.

"Thank you, Sparky," she said sweetly, receiving the photo and grinning at the sight of the child and herself. "That’s it. It’s finished," Susan added, showing the album to an interested Nikki.

The girl nodded and carefully held a beautiful red-golden paper. "Now we have to wrap it," she said solemnly.

Five minutes later, the album was expertly wrapped. "Now we are ready," Susan said, taking Da’an’s present and hiding it inside the closet.

"Yes!" Nikki exclaimed happily.

Susan chuckled and stroked her daughter’s red hair.

"Mom, you are disheveling me," Nikki protested.

"Yeah?" Susan asked mischievously and without warning, she hugged her child and began to tickle her.

"No, Mom, stop!" Nikki begged, laughing and fortunately for her, her mother’s new global beeped.

"You are lucky," Susan teased her, rubbing Nikki’s little nose and taking her global out from her pocket.

"Yes," Nikki agreed mischievously.

Susan rolled her eyes and opened the device. To the redhead’s surprise, Zo’or’s annoyed face appeared on the small screen. "Zo’or... what..."

"I need your assistance now," the Synod Leader ordered. "Please," she added at the woman’s sudden put out expression.

Susan smiled, knowing what was the source of the Taelon’s distress. "Sure," she answered.

Zo’or nodded and closed the link.

"Can I go with you to the Mothership?" Nikki asked, her eyes glowing in anticipation.

"Let’s go and ask your father," Susan answered with a grin.

******

In twenty-five minutes, the child and her mother entered the Synod Leader’s private room.

"What is it that troubles you?" Susan asked.

"You know very well the answer to that," Zo’or said seriously, giving her the almost finished scarf.

Susan and Nikki exchanged glances and smiled kindly. "Wow!" Susan exclaimed. "I am impressed. You did beautiful work. I don’t understand why are you so worried."

"I like it," Nikki added.

Zo’or stared at them and could not help losing her façade for a second. "Do you really think so?" she asked the redheaded woman.

"Yes," Susan said sincerely. "Now all you have to do is add some fringes in both ends and Joshua’s scarf will be ready."

A satisfied smirk appeared on the Leader’s face. "Well, if humans can do it, there is no reason why Taelons cannot do it... better," Zo’or said in a superior tone.

Susan rolled her eyes and returned the scarf to her. "Yeah, right. Now let this human help you put on the fringes," she said.

An hour later, the scarf was ready and, in order to showed her gratitude, Zo’or accompanied her two guests to the shuttle bay. "Are you sure you do not prefer to use a portal?" she asked Susan.

Da’an’s chosen one unconsciously shivered and shook her head. "No thanks. I don’t like your interdimensional portals."

"Why? They are... quite useful," Zo’or said innocently.

Susan sighed, said good bye to the now amused Taelon leader and, holding Nikki, she climbed into the craft. After greeting the pilot, the ship departed.

Once they were gone, Zo’or slightly smiled and left the bay.

*****

Unnoticed, one of the volunteers watched the Taelon until he disappeared from his sight and then took out his global. "Everything is clear. Do you want me to proceed now?"

"Yes," a female voice answered.

He nodded, but seemed troubled. "Listen... I don’t like the Taelons, but there are humans aboard the Mothership. I wouldn’t like to be responsible for their deaths."

"Don’t worry. The virus will only cause minor problems in the communicational system and will last just an hour. We’ll give those Taelons a... shake."

He smiled. "Consider it done," he said, closing the link. Then, after checking that no one was looking, he downloaded the virus...

******

Inside her apartment, Julia closed her global and smiled mischievously. True, the virus would only give the Taelons a big head ache, but that was better than nothing.

"Merry Christmas, Zo’or," she said, as she finished decorating her tree.

******

In the Washington Taelon Embassy, Da’an stood by the window of his audience chamber, glancing outside. It was snowing and he could tell there was a storm coming. Slightly worried, he wondered if Susan and Nikki would return soon, when the data stream went on. He turned and smiled in relief at the sight of his chosen one.

She smiled back and Nikki waved her hand to him. "Hi, just to tell you that we are in our way there," she said.

"Good. There is a storm approaching... and I am waiting for you," he replied.

"We are--"

The transmission suddenly began to fail until the data stream went off. Deeply worried, Da’an sat on the chair and waved his hand to restore it, but nothing happened. He tried with another system, but it was useless, even the lights had begun to blink.

Immediately, a concerned Liam arrived. "The communicational devices are failing all over the Embassy, including the globals."

Da’an blushed blue. "That means we are isolated," he stated.

"I am afraid so," the hybrid confirmed, trying again with his global.

"Liam, you--"

Da’an abruptly stopped as the scared screams of Susan and Nikki reached him. Losing his façade, he collapsed on his chair, shaking uncontrollably.

"Da’an," Liam exclaimed, hurrying to help him.

The Taelon managed to recover his human appearance and raised a hand to stop him. "I... am... fine," he whispered.

"What... happened?" Liam asked.

"When the... failures began, Susan and Nikki were... in a shuttle, returning to the Embassy." He stopped for a second, blushing blue again. "The craft crashed."

"What! Are they..."

Da’an gave him a do-not-dare-to-think-so look and rose from his seat. "No. They are unharmed, but they crashed in a frozen region. With the coming storm, they will not survive long," he explained, nervously gesturing with his hands and walking to the exit. "I will go for them. Come with me, Major."

Sharing Da’an’s concern and agitation, Liam followed him to the shuttle bay.

******

Once everything went quiet and the world stopped turning, Susan slowly raised her head and opened her eyes. What happened? She remembered she had been talking to Da’an and suddenly the pilot had shouted, she had hugged Nikki and then everything had gone black.

Shaking herself, she released Nikki and sighed in relief when she realized her child was unharmed. "Are you okay, Nikki?" she asked softly, stroking her daughter’s trembling head.

Nikki managed to nod and then gave her mother a worried look. "Mom, you are hurt!"

Susan blinked and only then she felt the thin, warm stream sliding through her cheek. She took a hand to her temple, but quickly withdrew it as she felt the pain. Susan forced herself to smile and shook her head. "Hey, it’s okay, Nikki. It’s just a little bruise."

Then, she freed themselves from the tangle of wires and went to check on the poor pilot. She touched the man’s neck to feel his pulse and bowed her head sadly.

"Is he... dead?" Nikki asked.

"Yes," she said, calmly stroking Nikki’s head. Then she tried her global, but it didn't work.

"Where are we?" the child asked.

As half of the ship had been destroyed by the crash, they could see the snowy surroundings from their current position.

"I don’t know," Susan said, worried. "But your father will soon find us," she added, embracing the scared little girl. "All we have to do is wait here and--"

"What is that noise?" Nikki interrupted her, stiffening.

Susan stiffened too as if trying to hear it. After a couple of seconds she did... and opened her eyes wide in fear. Without losing time, she lifted Nikki and ran out of the shuttle.

******

"Da’an, the crafts have no power," a frustrated Liam informed him.

The Taelon blushed blue in despair and closed his eyes in deep concentration.

"They are experiencing the same problems aboard the Mothership and in the rest of the Embassies," he explained after a while. "It seems that the failures began in the communicational system and spread to the shuttles. There are no other systems compromised. Our engineers believe that the computer was infected by a virus." He stopped and looked at Liam in an unusually cold -and menacing- way. "Tell me, Major, was this the result of a Resistance attack?" Da’an asked, deadly serious.

Liam Kincaid stared in disbelief at the Taelon, deeply hurt by the North American Companion’s implication. He went white and met Da’an’s stern eyes. "I would never harm Susan and Nikki. You know that!" he stated in the same icy tone.

Da’an held his gaze for a few seconds and then lowered his head. "I apologize, Liam," he said sincerely. "My accusation was unfair. I do know you would never do anything to harm them."

Liam relaxed and lay a hand on Da’an’s shoulder. "I understand," he whispered kindly.

Da’an raised his head and nodded. "As we cannot use the shuttles, I want you to contact a regular search team."

"Immediately," Liam said, going to get a phone. After a while, he returned, clearly distressed. "They informed me the helicopters cannot fly with this storm. They told me to wait."

Da’an sighed and bowed his head, hoping against hope that Susan and Nikki could wait... after all she had told him Christmas was the perfect time for little miracles. (Please, be strong, beloved) he mentally begged her.

******

By a miracle, Susan and Nikki were able to get far enough away from the explosion. "It’s okay," she soothed the terrified child. Inside, she wondered for how long they would be able to stand the freezing temperature and the snow. "Everything will be all right," she whispered, wrapping Nikki with her coat and lifting her up. Ignoring the snow, she continued walking, searching for shelter, as they just could not stay there. "Yes, everything will be fine. Soon, your dad will come to get us."

(Please, hurry, Da'an) she desperately thought to him. As an answer, Susan felt his soothing thoughts... and his own despair.

Half an hour later, exhausted and beaten by the chilling wind, Susan was not able to walk another step and she fell to her knees. Her arms slowly released Nikki.

"Mom!" Nikki screamed, scared, throwing her short arms around her mother's neck, her hands glowing.

Susan slightly smiled and tried to raise her hand and stroke the child's cheek, but instead, she collapsed on the white and cold ground.

"MOM!" the girl yelled again, completely losing her human form and kneeling by her fallen mother.

(I... love... you...) Susan whispered on her mind... and then, her presence faded away.

"NO! MOM!"

******

"NO!" Da'an shouted, echoing Nikki's scream, falling to his knees in his true Taelon form. Shocked beyond belief, he felt his beloved's presence slipping away... and this time it was not a nightmare during samh'had. This time it was real...

******

"Mom, wake up," Nikki begged through her tears, carefully sweeping away the snow from her mother's pale face. "Mom," she repeated, shaking Susan's shoulders. "Mom, wake up, please," she whispered sadly, curling herself up by her mother's lifeless body.

"Why are you crying, little one?" someone suddenly asked.

Startled, Nikki raised and saw a man in a black coat standing there. She recognized him immediately; he was the bearded man from the church. Drying her eyes, the girl lowered her gaze to her mother. "My mom..." she began to say in a small voice, but stopped, unable to finish the sentence.

The man raised an eyebrow. "How is that?" he asked, kneeling by Susan's side and gently touching her forehead. To the child's amazement and joy, her mother stirred a little. "See? She is just sleeping."

Nikki smiled widely and embraced the man. "Thank you," she said sincerely, kissing him on his cheek and only then, she realized his clothes were dry and that the storm had gone.

The stranger stroked her head reassuringly and rose. He carefully lifted Susan and lowered his tender gaze to Nikki. "Come with me, little one, I will take you to a safe place. However, I can only carry your mother. Will you be able to follow us?"

The girl nodded, a determined expression on her face. "Yes."

The man smiled, pleased. "Good. Hold my coat, Nicole."

"How do you know my name?" she asked, surprised, holding his coat with her tiny hand.

"Oh, I know many things," he answered with a grin and, chuckling, he began to walk.

Feeling strangely content and safe, Nikki followed him.

******

Deeply angry and grief-stricken, Da'an refused Liam's help to stand. The Taelon simply could not believe Susan's fate. It was not fair! Christmas was suppose to be a time of joy and love, not a time of tragedy and loss... Susan had told him so... But now...

*NO!* he mentally screamed. What would be of Nikki and him now... without her? And Nikki, would he be able to find her in time? What he would do if--

Suddenly, he felt a tender, soothing presence surrounding him, keeping him away from his dark thoughts. It was as if... love itself had wrapped him...

(Do not be afraid, child) an incredibly tender and powerful voice spoke in his mind...

(Who are you?) Da'an asked, but the presence disappeared... to be replaced by the faint presence of Susan.

Deeply happy and relieved, Da'an rose from the floor and recovered his disguise, an expression of wonder in his pale face.

"Da'an, what happened?" Liam asked, worried and fearing the worst.

Da'an smiled and his eyes twinkled merrily. "Susan and Nikki are safe. I cannot explain it, but I know that is the case," he said and then tilted his head. "Perhaps Christmas is a time of little miracles after all."

Liam grinned, "Yes. My mother believed in miracles and--"

He was interrupted by his global alarm. "Speaking of miracles," he muttered and opened his global. "Agent Sandoval," the hybrid greeted him. "How are the things there?" he asked.

"The communicational system is in working order, but the shuttle system will be ready in two hours," Sandoval informed.

Liam grinned. "Good... and Sandoval... Merry Christmas."

The Agent seemed startled for a second, but then recovered. "Yeah, the same to you, Major." With that, he closed the link.

"Will Susan and Nikki be fine if they have to wait two hours?" Major Kincaid asked the North American Companion.

Da'an nodded and smiled. "Yes, but I am afraid It is me who will be not able to wait."

******

After fifteen minutes of walking, the stranger and Nikki arrived to a small cabin. He opened the door and entered. Nikki looked around with curiosity. It was a comfortable place, simply furnished with a wooden table and four chairs. It had a fireplace -with a sparkling fire- and some nice paintings hanging from the walls.

"Is this your house?" she asked, following him to the main chamber.

"Oh no," he said, gently laying a sleeping Susan on a bed and taking off her coat and shoes. "This is just a cabin for lost travelers such as you," he explained enigmatically.

Nikki tilted her head, puzzled, and looked at her mother. "Will my mom be all right?" she asked.

He smiled. "Yes. She is sleeping now and I suggest you to do the same. Your father will be here in two hours."

"You know who my father is?" she asked, amazed.

"I told you I know many things," he replied with a mischievous grin, helping her to take off her wet coat and boots.

"What is your name?" she asked then, lying by her mother's side.

He pulled up the comforter and shrugged. "That is something you must discover by yourself, however, I can give you a clue. You carried me... inside your pocket," he said with a wink.

Nikki fixed her deep blue eyes upon him and, feeling suddenly very tired, she closed her eyes and her lips turned up in a grin. "Happy... birthday," she whispered, falling asleep.

He nodded and a tender expression appeared on his face. "Sleep now, my children," he said softly and, quietly, he left the room.

******

Two hours later...

Susan opened her eyes and blinked in surprise. She was in some kind of cabin, laying in a comfortable bed and, what was more importantly, Nikki was sleeping by her side. "I love you so much, little one," she whispered as a tear slid down her cheek. She tenderly removed a strand of red hair from her child's face and then she silently tried to rise, but Nikki woke up.

"Mom!" the girl exclaimed happily, throwing her short arms around her mother's neck. "You are fine. I was so scared, but he saved us!"

"Yes I am fine," Susan said sweetly, hugging her daughter. "But Nikki, what happened? How did we get here?"

"He saved us. He brought us here!" she said, taking her mother's hands and guiding her to the fireplace.

"Who?" Susan asked, puzzled, sitting by the fireplace and wondering who might have been walking in the middle of a storm.

"It was him! Je..."

Nikki abruptly stopped, hearing a shuttle arriving and feeling her father's... and Liam's presence. "Dad is here!"

"I know," Susan said tenderly.

******

The craft landed near the cabin and before Liam could free himself of the seat restraints, Da'an descended and hurried to the house.

There, he found Susan and Nikki seated near the fireplace. Immediately, they rose and went to

him... Without a word, Da'an embraced his child for long minutes and then released her and held Susan. "You are safe," he whispered looking intently at her, and seeing the bruises on her face, he raised a glowing hand and carefully touched her. In a second, her face was healed. "You are safe," he repeated, as if trying to convince himself that she was standing there... in his arms. "I love you so much," he said and before a now-overwhelmed Susan could say a word, he kissed her.

After a moment, Nikki joined them. Da'an and Susan parted and, with a smile, Da'an lifted Nikki in his arms.

"Look, dad," the child said. "There is a fireplace!"

"I see, Little one, he noted kindly.

"May I came in?" an amused and slightly frozen Liam asked from the doorway.

"Please," Da'an said, rolling his eyes and putting Nikki down.

Susan chuckled and Nikki went to Liam and took his hand to guide him to the fireplace. "You are cold," the little hybrid noted.

"Just a little," he said, sitting by the fire with the child on his lap.

Susan and Da'an exchanged amused glances and sat there too.

Suddenly, the Taelon stiffened and before the others could ask what was happening, they heard the sound of a shuttle leaving interdimensional space. Curious, they rose and a few seconds later, the door opened. To their surprise, Zo'or entered, followed by a smiling Joshua, Agent Sandoval, Lili and -to Susan's disbelief- a tall redheaded man and a nice looking woman. All of them carried bags except the Synod Leader.

After exchanging greetings, Lili headed towards the table with her arms busy with the bags. "Please, Liam, can you help me? Sandoval, you can leave your bags here," she said, indicating the table. Quickly, both protectors did as they were told and soon, the table was covered with all sorts of delicious things and wrapped packages.

"What are you doing here?" Liam asked Sandoval while they were distributing the things over the table.

The Agent chuckled and shrugged. "Don't ask me, Major," he answered, slightly looking at Zo'or.

Zo'or slowly approached Da'an with a satisfied smirk on her face. "When I arrived at the Embassy, your... guests were already there, waiting for you," Zo'or explained, clearly amused by Da'an's surprised look. "And you know that I do not like to wait," she stated.

"I must admit it was a good idea," Da'an said, gesturing with a hand. "Thank you," he said sincerely.

Zo'or nodded. (I am pleased your chosen one and your child are fine.)

Da'an smiled. (So am I.)

Joshua went to where a startled Susan stood and hugged her tenderly. "Zo'or told me what happened. I am so happy you and Nikki are okay," he said, releasing her, and then he grinned and looked at the door. "I didn't know they were coming," he added with a wink and left her to go to help Lili, Sandoval and Liam.

Susan looked in disbelief at Da'an -who gave her an amused glance in return and whispered Merry Christmas in her mind - and continued staring... at her equally surprised parents.

"Well, are you glad to see us or not?" Eric Bluestone asked with a raised eyebrow and before Susan could answer him, he gave his only child a bear hug.

"Dad!" Susan exclaimed at last, returning the hug. Then, she looked at her mother, Helen, and smiled. "I'm so glad to see you, mom", the redhead said, embracing her mother.

"Me too, honey, me too."

"I have so much to tell you," a happy Susan said, releasing her parents and leading them where Nikki was.

"I know," Eric said. "You can begin by introducing us this little princess," he added, looking tenderly at the child.

Nikki stepped forward and tilted her head. "Are you my grandfather?" she asked a little bit shyly.

"Of course I am," Eric Bluestone answered, lifting the girl and rubbing her nose. The child giggled and -to Helen and Eric's astonishment- she blushed blue. "Indeed you have many things to tell us, Susan," Eric said with a hint of mischief in his voice.

At his words, Susan reddened, Da'an seemed deeply amused and Helen rolled her eyes. "Eric," she said with a content sigh.

Joshua watched them from the other side of the room and smiled, deeply happy -and relieved- for his dearest friend... but also a little bit sad, for not being with his own father, Jonathan Doors.

(What is it?) Zo'or suddenly thought to him.

He shook his head and walked towards her. (Nothing, everything is all right,) he mentally answered with a charming grin.

Not fooled for a second, Zo'or just gave him a sideways glance.

Still in her grandfather's arms, Nikki turned to her mother, a wide smile on her face. "Mom, I want to sing!" she exclaimed.

"Sing?"

"Yes. I want to sing Silent night," Nikki said solemnly, her eyes glowing electric blue in anticipation.

"Okay, but I will need some help," Susan agreed, looking at Joshua, Lili, Liam and Sandoval.

"Oh no," the lawyer said -and two protectors thought- raising both hands.

(Please) an amused Zo'or echoed in his mind.

"Okay, okay," he finally accepted and then, to the Taelons benefit, six humans and two hybrids began to sing...

"Silent night, holy night..."

******

Hours later, after spending a nice time in the cabin, all of them returned to their homes, their hearts filled with joy...

Back in the Embassy...

Da'an gently lay a sleeping -and sparkling- Nikki on her bed and Susan carefully took off the child's clothes and put on her pajamas.

"She is just like you when she sleeps," Susan noted in a soft voice, quietly laying by Nikki's side a stuffed white seal. To her parent's delight, Nikki stirred and hugged the animal.

Da'an smiled and stroked his daughter's cheek. "Sweet dreams, little one," he whispered.

Susan kissed her forehead and quietly they left the chamber.

Once in their room, Susan took off her shoes and walked to the window. It was snowing.

"Are you all right?" Da'an asked, standing behind her and lying his hands on her shoulders. "Do you want me to call Doctor Belman?"

"Oh no," Susan said. "I was just thinking... When we were outside with Nikki and I... lost consciousness... I... I heard a voice... telling me... not to be... afraid. At first I thought It was you... but then..."

She didn't finish. Instead, she turned to Da'an and embraced him. "I am so happy to be here with you," she said.

Da'an lost his façade and ran a hand through her hair. "It was a little Christmas miracle," he said tenderly.

She raised her head and met his transparent eyes. "Thank you so much for this day," she said. "I still cannot believe you brought me my parents. Thank you," she repeated, unable to say anything else. Then, she suddenly stiffened and opened her eyes wide. "Wow! I am forgetting something. Nikki and I have a surprise for you."

"A surprise?" he asked, recovering his human appearance.

"Yes," she said with a spark in her eyes. "Just wait here."

A couple of minutes later, she returned with a gift and gave it to him.

Curious, he unwrapped it and smiled in delight. A photo album!

"Do you like it?" she asked with a childish expression on her face. "I took the pictures from surveillance cameras and from Doctor Belman equipment. The last picture is my favorite."

Da’an looked at it and his façade slipped away again. "I love it," he said, gently pulling her closer...

******

Lili softly landed the shuttle near Joshua’s house, at the other side of the street.

Zo’or, carrying a mysterious bag, Joshua and Sandoval descended and headed to the lawyer’s house. "That would be all, Agent Sandoval," Zo’or said once they were in the porch. "Return for me tomorrow afternoon.

Sandoval stiffened and was about to protest, but the Synod Leader’s icy glare and Joshua’s annoyed look stopped him. "Yes, Zo’or," he said, clearing his throat.

Zo’or nodded and a mischievous grin appeared on her face. "Agent Sandoval," she said giving him something. "Perhaps you can find this... useful," she said and entered the house with the lawyer.

Sandoval watched them and stared at his hand. He blinked in surprise. Zo’or had given him a mistletoe!

Shaking his head, he returned to the shuttle and seeing Lili, an idea occurred to him.

"Where is Zo’or?" the Captain asked and then gave him a strange look. "Sandoval, what--"

She abruptly stopped.

"Captain Marquette..." he said innocently, holding the mistletoe before her eyes.

Lili raised and eyebrow and rolled her eyes. "Don’t even think about it," she said.

Disappointed, Sandoval dropped the Mistletoe and sighed. "Oh well..."

Lili chuckled. "Oh, what the--" and taking Sandoval by surprise, she grabbed him by his coat... and kissed him...

******

"Please, have a seat," Joshua invited Zo’or.

She accepted with a smile, amused by his formal behavior. He sat by her side and lay his head on her lap.

"What is it?" she asked softly, stroking his hair. "I can feel there is something bothering you. I know you are happy, but I can also sense your sadness."

He raised his head and smiled. "I cannot hide anything from you, can I?" he asked.

"You know the answer to that," she said with a smirk.

He sighed, defeated. "It’s my father," he explained. "I wished he would have called me for Christmas. I called him several times and left him messages... but he didn’t answer."

"I... understand," she told him simply and decided to say no more, as Jonathan Doors was always a delicate subject between them.

Suddenly, Joshua rose and flushed. "I... have something for you," he said. "I will be back in a minute."

Before Zo’or could say a word, he hurried to his room.

He went to his desk to get Zo’or’s present when something in the screen’s calling device, caught his attention. Someone had left a message... His father...

Twenty minutes later, he returned to her, a gift in his hands and a wide smile on his face.

"Your father did call," Zo’or stated.

He nodded. "Yes," he said and flushing, he gave her the gift. "I hope you like it. You could say it was... made for us."

Zo’or blushed blue and, holding her bag, she gave him his present. "This was made for you," she whispered.

Feeling each other’s curiosity, they both unwrapped their presents... and stared at them with wide, opened eyes. Without a word, they left their presents on a side and joined themselves in a tender embrace...

******

Liam returned to his apartment and, after changing his clothes into a comfortable pajama, he lay on his bed. He smiled. In spite of the accident, he did enjoy Christmas this year. Suddenly, he remembered the envelope Augur had given him. Curious, he took it from the night table and opened it. He blinked and stared in amazement at the picture of a beautiful young woman. She had startling red hair and deep blue, mischievous eyes, and her smile was incredibly sweet... Liam flushed. It was Nikki! And at the bottom of the picture there was an inscription. ‘Just for your –future- eyes.’ Merry Christmas -Augur.

With a silly grin on his face, Liam closed the envelope and returned it to his night table. He shut off the lights and lay back on his bed. "Merry Christmas indeed," he whispered, falling asleep.

FIN