Title: Sirens. Timeline: Post Fight the future. Archive: Oh yeah! Anywhere, with my permission. Spoilers: I expect so. Keywords: X- File and M/S romance. Disclaimers: OK, no money or fame derived from this little piece of fun. Rating: NC17...you should know by now..tehe Summary: Greek mythology X file, sex and blood. A messy combination. Authors notes: Hummmm..? Feedback:....Oh God!! Yes please..(whimpering) E mail: Bexbel@aol.com Sirens by Bexbel Ionian Isles, Cephalonia, Ithaca Straits, Present day. 'Nikos?!..' the olive skinned fisherman shouted to his companion, over the sound of the waves lashing the hull. 'What?!' 'The sea is getting rough, we should get back soon..Besides we have enough fish for the taverna.' 'OK Stavros..I'll just finish emptying this net..' nodding as he hauled his catch onto the deck, placating his partner. 'Hey Nikos..do you think I'll get anything from those young things we had in the bar last night?..' Stavros chuckled, as he gutted the last of the snapper, his hands covered with scales and entrails, his t shirt smeared with blood. Nikos gave a hoarse laugh at his friends comment, an ironic one. 'Ha! You'll have no luck my friend, smelling like a sour fish!' turning from the bow towards Stavros, at the stern. He walked deftly along the side gully and threw the remains of the dead fish over board, back from whence they came. A bucket in one hand, a filleting knife in the other. Casually he wiped the remains of the fish flesh off, onto his cut off jeans. 'Ohhh!.. They'll not mind..I think that blonde likes a bit of rough..hahaha..' 'Stavros..my poor friend, she will curse you if you snag her silk dress with these cracked and stinking hands!!' Nikos grabbed his friends hands and pulled them towards him to look at, sneering at the terrible state they were in. Shaking his head in disgust. 'Ooooooo..don't Nikos! Silk dress, soft skin..arh..I've been on this boat too long..' 'My God Stavros..you give every Greek male a bad reputation. Not all of us are as horny a Zeus!' he chastised, washing his hands in a bucket of sea water. 'It's what they come to the islands for!?! A little sun, a little sea, and lots of good sex with me!..Did you not see Shirley Valentine?? HAHA..!' he retorted, packing the fish in the ice crates and stowing it below deck. As he started back up on deck, a wave caught the side of the boat, pulling the anchor free. Lurching the boat to port, throwing Stavros against the steps. And Nikos against the helm. 'I'll get the anchor you start her up..I don't like the look of the sky..' the laughter and soft banter subsided for a while, as they set about their tasks in earnest. The small craft sprang to life as the engine powered up. Nikos at the helm. Stavros hauling up the anchor and putting away the nets. The sea had become angry in the few minutes they had been chatting. The sky had turned inky black. The white horses bubbled on the crests of the waves, spraying them in the face, as the wind plucked off the surf. They were used to the sea turning from flat calm, to vicious tumult in a moment. It was the nature of the ocean, and the job. But there was something more insidious, more ferocious about the approaching storm. Both men looked at one another, giving a silent, and knowing nod. They needed to get back to port. Before things got too much for the little fishing boat. They headed south east, following a narrow wash between the island of Ithaca and Cephalonia. Notorious for it's eddy's and currents, and also it's beauty. The mountains to the left of Ithaca, and the gentle slide of the hills of Cephalonia to the right. Lush green vegetation sweeping the hillsides. Cyprus trees, planted eons ago by the Venetian's, intermittently punctuating the swathe of jade. An emerald sea, turned slate grey and white, lay before them like a shroud. The small boat lurched and fell over the crests of the waves, and the rain began to fall. Huge drops, at lightning speed, hit the deck and bounced inches off with the force. Stinging there eyes and skin. The wind blew the rain at a angle, so acute, it washed into their ears and open mouths. In each trough of a wave, the boat smacked down so hard, they thought that it would break up with the impact. So they were relieved when they caught sight of Fiskardo, their home, when the next crest to elevate the craft, smashed into the hull. 'Nikos!!?! Home!!' Stavros pointed, clinging to the railings, wiping the salt spray from his eyes. 'I can see it..but we have to get past the rocks first..we have to..get around them..in this wind it will be dam near impossible.!' Nikos struggled to control the helm. Stavros saw his plight, and staggered along the deck, to help him hold the wheel. They could barely see the clump of rocks from the boat as it pitched and tossed on the water. Which, by now was so violent, that they both privately said a pray for deliverance. The wind whistled and sung, then grew so loud, that it began to scream. Getting higher in pitch and tone. The screech unbearable, that they had to cover their ears, with their hands. Tumbling over, unable to stand, or steer the boat because of the unearthly cacophony, and the wrath of the ocean. They were in agony, as they fought to blot out the screams, writhing in pain on the deck. Nikos caught a glimpse, above him of a huge bird, with black plumage and the head of a women. Screaming down at him and his fellow fisherman.. The phantom terrifying, the face beautiful. Nikos began to pray, yet again... The eyes of the bird watched as they lay helpless, covering their ears, their bodies slamming against the deck, as the craft rocked and rolled in the massive swells. Until the boat reached the first of the rocks and slammed into it, like a match-stick, crumbling with the violent impact. The men were tossed out into the sea. The boat broke up, like a balsa wood toy in a child's hand. The men struggled to stay above water, but the pain from the screaming from the bird, was impossible to ignore. Unable to remove their hands protecting their ears, they slipped below the surface and were lost. The sea subsided as quickly as it had begun. The rain eased to a gentle mist, the clouds receded beyond the horizon. Till all that was left was pieces of broken hull and rope, a slick of engine oil, and a shoal of dead fish. On the sea wall, in the harbour of Fiskardo, not a mile from the wreckage, was a man. He stood, grave, his face grey, because of what he had just witnessed. He turned from the scene and headed back to his villa. ********** FBI HQ, X files Office, Two weeks later. Scully walked briskly along the corridor leading to their new offices. The one where she now 'had' a desk. She allowed herself a little grin as she pushed the door open to see it. In the corner, behind Mulders, with her own name plate. Mulder was blocking her view however. He sat chatting on the phone to someone, she knew not who. And his big feet up on her desk, his back to her. She coughed so he would remove his feet but he just swivelled around a little, just enough to see who had entered. She sneered at him for not removing his feet. She walked over and shoved them off unceremoniously. They hit the floor with a thud, he gave a little pout. Scully stuck her nose in the air and turned on her computer. 'OK...thats great I could do with a break..Yeah..OK..Can I bring a friend?..Excellent..OK..see ya then..Bye..' He put the phone down and offered a charming smile Scully's way. Which she ignored purposely. A little peeved that he had the audacity to put his mucky shoes on her 'new' desk! He saw she was not amused so he didn't push it. Instead he had some great news. And was all smiles. 'What?' she chagrined as he eyed her curiously.. 'Fancy a holiday?' he gave all smarmy, knowing she would be very pleased to have a break. Especially after the last few months they had been through. 'Don't be flippant Mulder, It doesn't become you.' she began to work on the same file she had been working on for the last week and a half. Neither of them being able to agree on a reasonable explanation. And besides, Mulder's idea of a holiday is two hours, in some kind of greasy spoon road cafe, in the middle of the dessert. And quite frankly, she had, had her fill of that. 'No Scully, I'm serious..' he tried again, but this time not so patronising. 'Ok..where..?' she huffed as she looked up, 'Texas? Memphis? Outer Mongolia?' He sneered, jokingly, 'Ha..ha..Nooo....How does two weeks in my friends villa in 'Greece' sound...?' his eyebrows raised so high, with excitement she had to giggle at his demeanour. 'Greece eh? ummm..sounds nice..male or female..?' she added on the end, intrigued to know whether it was an old flame or not. But still non-committal. 'Male or female what?' he looked confused.. 'Your 'friend'?' emphasising what kind of friend. 'Does that matter Scully?' he chuckled..realising suddenly what she was saying. 'Male actually, Phil is a old chum from Oxford, he wants to see me. We haven't seen each other since then, he thought it would be nice if I came out to see him. Besides I think we could both do with a break...' he stared her in the eye, knowing she knew what he meant. 'Ok..so your friend..sorry.. 'chum'..' she said sarcastically, 'Want's to meet up, to chew the fat, and you want 'me' to come?' she gave accusingly with her hands stretch out before her on the new desk. 'Yeah..' Mulder nodded, excitedly. 'Why?' Scully offered another raised brow, her tone laden with mistrust. She knew him too well by now. There had to be an ultiria motive.. 'Geese! Scully..' he whinned..'I ask you to come away to a warm, sunny clime, and you think I've got something to hide!..I can't win..' throwing his hands up, weary. Taking pity on him, that she had just ruined his charming, happy mood. She relented.. 'OK..sorry. It's just most cases I'm right..You usually have an hidden agenda. So your quite happy for me to come along.?' 'I wouldn't have asked, would I, if I didn't.?' she had to concede that one. A smile crept gingerly across her face. She dropped her head back to the page in front of her and felt her cheeks redden..concidering fully what this would all entail. 'Don't blush Scully, the villa is big..we'll have separate rooms..you can go off and do what you want, when you want. No ties I promise. Besides, its a long flight..two actually. I need the company. You know how I get, when I have no one to talk to..'he whimpered selfishly. 'Thanks..' she pouted, like a child rebuffed..silently very excited about the prospect of two weeks in the sun with her favourite person. 'Nooooo..you know what I mean..we'll have fun. Or..at least 'you' can have fun on your own, if you want it like that. I just presumed that the break would do us both the world of good..' 'OK Mulder..If your sure you want me along..?' she gave a sweet smile, checking he was serious and not just being polite. 'Hey...don't forget your bikini..' he waggled his eyebrows like a school boy, at the innuendo. She chuckled, blushing, yet again. 'Oh very droll..Mulder..' and added, 'Don't 'you' forget your speedo's..' straight faced.. 'Agent..Scully!' he barked shocked, but obviously amused. ******************* Since their 'almost' kiss in his hallway. They had become more open with each other. It was inevitable. The repartee and sexual banter had become more prevalent. Both knowing that the connection they had professionally had deepened. But now it was obvious that the emotional one, had been reinforced as well. There was a physical attraction also. However, neither had mentioned the 'incident' since it happened. Or had they made any move to re-live it. The events leading up to that moment were very tense, both Mulder and Scully, had rationalised the situation. To be exactly that, an emotional, tension filled couple of days. The time 'had' been intense. So it was inevitable that those 'tensions' would have lead to that kind of lapse of professional behaviour. Notwithstanding, both secretly wished the kiss had been completed. ************************ Argostoli airport Cephalonia One week later. Mulder let Scully disembark first. She reached the end of the fuselage, and stepped onto the stairs leading down from the plane. She took a deep breath of the hot, salty air, as she began to descend. 'Wow..it's hot Mulder..' she smiled happily. Overjoyed to be off the plane. The landing had been very bumpy and the two flights from the US to Athens, and then onwards to the island, had been worth every minute. As she continued down onto the tarmac, the small, scruffy airport buildings beckoned her. Mulder put his hand on her shoulder, she turned, a beaming smile on her face. He grinned back at her, slinging his cabin bag over his shoulder. 'Last one to get there luggage, buys the ouzo..' he challenged.. 'Your on..' she nodded. So charmed to finally be on a decent holiday. Mulder was last to collect his luggage, which Scully was pleased about, just to see him frantically searching the name tags on all the pieces of tourist bags on the conveyer. He was such a tight-ass when it came to buying a drink. When they got through customs, Phil was waiting for them. He was a tall, dark tanned, dark hair'd American. He stuck out like a sore thumb against all the other Greeks at the airport, who are not renown for their height. He wore a tatty t shirt and a pair of sky blue shorts, and a pair of dusty flip-flops. Plus the statutory Ray Bans... 'Mulder!! Hey Mulder..' he shouted towards the partners. 'Phil! You old 'wet bob'..You look blood well!!' Mulder grabbed his friends hand and shook it vigorously, then Phil, pulled him in close for a hug, and some back patting. 'You don't Mulder..too pale..we'll have to do something about that..haha.' he chuckled, at his chum's wan complexion. 'Phil this is Scully..Dana Scully...my, umm.. protege.' Mulder got a slap for that but continued undeterred, 'Partner'...in crime..' he added quickly, Mulder was a little at odds on how to introduce her. After all this was the first time they had been on holiday together, and unofficially as a couple. Of sorts. 'Hiya, Dana..lovely to meet you. You must be hot and knackered. Lets get you back to the villa. And you can clean up..OK?' he smiled warmly, taking her luggage and walking out of the airport. It was pandemonium outside, taxi's and coaches taking the tourists all around the island. Car's honking horns, Greek men waving arms and shouting, what seemed like abuse at other drivers. But it wasn't long and they were heading out of the airport towards Phil's villa. 'God Mulder I'm so glad you've finally come out here!..I've been at him for years you know Dana?..We've got a long drive ahead but the scenery is out of this world.! So just sit back and enjoy the ride OK?' Phil prattled on as Scully, watched the majestic mountains and the twinkling sea rush by. Phil drove like a local, erratic and dangerous. But she felt secure because he obviously knew the roads, and there twist and turns. The odd farmer, crossing his herd of goats from one side of the hill to the other, held them up for only a few minutes. As Phil honked and screamed at them to get out the way. It was hot. Very hot. But the open jeep and the speed kept them cool, as the miles raced by. Driving through little white washed villages, watching people, watching them speed by, as they sunned themselves in open air tavernas and restaurants. Each of them offering the tourists from Washington, warm generous smiles and waves. All this helped Scully to ease gently into a mood of relaxation, and expectant excitement. Boats bobbed effortlessly on the ocean, the currents visible from a distance as the road began to meander higher and higher up the side of the mountain, still over looking the sea to their left. All the time Scully watched the mesmeric scenery, Phil and Mulder chatted and laughed. Talking endlessly about some old friends they had lost contact with along the way. Scully was happy to let them prattle on, like old ladies at the launderette, while she took in the atmosphere. Feeling the stress wash away gently from her body. Yeah. she was really going to enjoy the break. ****************** Finally they reached the north end of the island, to the fishing village of Fiskardo. Phil's villa was at the end of the peninsular, over looking Ithaca. The neighbouring island. The mythical home of Odysseus. It was an idyllic setting. The white washed walls of Phil's villa, were kept cool and colourful by the immense bourganvillia, shimmering cerise and red. The brilliant sun shone on the water, a stones throw away, on small beach at the bottom of a gentle slope, at the rear of the villa. A little jetty with a small boat anchored at the end, jutted out from the beach to the edge of the surf. Which intern nestled between two rocky outcrops, making the beach erotically secluded. Phil took delight and pride in showing them both around. At the back of the villa was a fresh water swimming pool, a small patio area and a brick built BBQ, white washed of coarse. The front aspect of the villa had huge patio windows that opened to the sea and the view across to the island, all south facing. Four huge airy bedrooms, sparingly furnished, with just beds and night stands, and a couple of wardrobes, all made of stripped pine. And a healthy splattering of oils, mainly views of the island. adorned the walls. A simple kitchen, two bathrooms, and a lounge, with two enormous arching sofa's, placed so that you could sit at night in comfort, and watch the sea and stars. Their own little piece of heaven, for a whole two weeks. 'This is your room Dana..I hope you like it..I put you here so you can open this window and see the ocean...I've put Mulder next door..his isn't so nice but hey..I'm sure he'll sleep outside anyway..' he chuckled..and continued..' If at all..!' 'Oh..so you know what a insomniac he is then?' she countered. grinning.. 'Oh yeah! ..He never slept at Oxford. We never knew how he managed to survive the lectures but he did..He was quite the enigma.!' 'Thanks Phil this is just perfect..' she offered gratefully impressed. Phil placed her cases on her bed and left her to unpack. As he turned to leave the room, Phil called back, 'Dinner in half an hour, then I thought we could go for a wander..are you game?' 'Sure sounds great..' with that he was gone and she was alone, with the incredible view from her window, a gentle salty breeze, oozing in the window and a huge bed, which was calling her to lay on. She fell flat back on the bed and closed her eyes for a few minutes. Before she realised, she was asleep. The fatigue had hit her. So there she stayed for the next few hours. ********************* 'Here you go..' Phil handed Mulder a glass of ouzo and water, as they sat on the balcony over looking the sea. The water had turned a lavish indigo, and the sky had blanched from brilliant blue to a watery hue, with the sun, huge to their right, falling silently into the sea. Wispy clouds beginning to form, across the suns descending arc. 'I must go down to the sea again, to the lonely sea and sky...And all I ask is, a tall ship and a star to steer her by...' Mulder's tone loose and relaxed, as he breathed the view. Remembering one of his favourite odes. Phil, listened. 'It's so beautiful here Phil, I see why you wanted to stay..' he turned to face his friend. 'Yeah..I adore it here.' Phil's head dropped and he began to cry. 'Hey come on Phil..' Mulder put his arm around his shoulder, waiting till he curbed his tears. 'I'm sorry Mulder..but with all this happening it's really thrown me you know?' he whispered, wiping his eyes, and taking a long swig of the aniseed nectar. 'Yes I understand...Why don't you start from the beginning...?' Mulder asked gently. 'Ok..Nikos and I..Well..you know my situation..' Mulder nodded, understanding that Nikos had been his life partner. A local fisherman, with his own restaurant. Phil met him years ago on a holiday tour of Europe. They became lovers and Phil remained on the island. Using his talents as a painter to finance his stay. They had been together for many years. 'Everyday, Nikos and Stavros go out, went out...' he paused and sighed..' To catch the fish for the restaurant for the evening. Well about three weeks ago, I was having lunch out here and I saw there was a storm coming. You know, you can see for miles up here?' Mulder nodded taking another look around the horizon. 'Well it came in so fast that I knew that the little boat they were on, was due back..And me being the wuss, I am, went down to the harbour to watch them come in..Hoping Nikos would get back before it hit. It looked like a squall to me. And I know the island has lost lots of people because of the treacherous waters which surround the island, especially the straits..' Phil gestured to the wash between the two islands. 'What happened when you got down to the harbour..?' Mulder putting him back on track gently. 'I sat on the wall, with my binoc's, watching as they made there way back..I'll show you exactly tonight when we go for our walk..Anyway, within minutes the sea was a complete mess, the wind and rain was nothing like anything I had seen before, and I have seen some storms believe me.! I could see 'the star' bobbing up and down, having terrible trouble trying to stay into the wind, but as they got nearer I couldn't see Nikos or Stavros on the boat...' he paused for breath then continued.. 'I panicked and run up the harbour, but of coarse no one was around, they had all gone for shelter out of the rain and wind. The noise was deafening, I screamed for someone to launch, to help, but no one came out..I was helpless. I could see the boat getting closer to the rocks, but I could do nothing..' Phil paused again, sipping his drink. 'Go on..' Mulder pushed gently.. 'The wind Mulder was unbelievable, its like the whole world was screaming, my ears hurt with the commotion, I could barely stand to watch it all happen. Then I saw this cloud descend, almost like a water spout they get in the tornado belt..? well, I thought it was a cloud, but when I managed to see through the binoculars, it wasn't a cloud, but a bird..Now I 'know' birds wouldn't fly when that kind of a storm is around. They go out to sea. But this bird was like nothing I'd ever seen. Your gonna think I'm crazy...but I swear to you Mulder..on my mothers life, it had a head....like a woman....black feathered body, like a bird, but the head of a woman..' he shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. Obviously shook up by his story and what he had seen. Mulder nodded, his eyes fixed on a spot out in the ocean before him. Listening thinking. 'Then the boat crashed onto the rocks, and that night Nikos and Stavros were washed up. ' he began to weep quietly. 'Phil, you said that you had the bodies transferred to Argostoli. To the morgue there?' 'Yes..I told the police and the coast guard what I had seen..but obviously they thought I had been drinking, whatever..But the doc' owed me a favour, he has them both there for you to examine. I know this is all a bit spooky but..' just then Scully came out behind them.. 'Spooky hey?..what's 'spooky'?..' Scully chuckled unaware of their conversation. 'Oh..nothing..nothing..Nice sleep?' Mulder gave light. Concealing his discomfort.. 'Yes marvellous thank you...Why do I get the impression that I've missed something very important..?' she ventured again, sensing the atmosphere, and Mulders evasive body language. Sitting herself down on one of the comfy chairs. 'Your imagining things again..' he scolded briskly, and handed her a tall glass of ouzo. Phil stood and went out quietly to start the food. 'My God Mulder it's stunning here, thanks for asking me..' she smiled sweetly noting he didn't want to divulge their conversation. And frankly she didn't want to know. 'Isn't it..' he replied, thankful for the let off. 'So what are you gonna do tomorrow Scully?' he lifted his glass to hers, they made a ping as they touched, and both took a sip.. 'Oh..sleep, swim, sleep, swim..the usual..' she grinned softly, watching the waves lapping the shore, sinking deep into the plush upholstery of the chairs. Her hair splayed out across the back of it, her legs stretched out in front, crossed at the ankle. Her dress, flowing light and thin, a collage of pastel hues..Mulder eyed her cautiously, not wanting to be caught sneaking a glimpse to obviously. She did look stunning. 'You look positively edible tonight my dear..' he gave in a mock English upper class accent. Meaning his complement devoutly, but lacing it with humour. As he usually did, to veil his sincerity. 'Why thank you Sir..' she nodded, eyes closed in his direction. Slowly opening them to see him staring admiringly back at her. There was no mistaking the seductive tone he used, she knew he meant it. As they watched each other, they began to chuckle. She reached over and took his hand, giving it a little squeeze. They had come a long way since Antarctica. He brought it to his lips and placed a chased, soft kiss on the back of her hand. 'How chivalrous..' she whispered, as he looked up from his sweet and gallant gesture. 'Anyone for souvlakia?' Phil came back with a tray of food. Olives, bread, dolmades and a humongous Greek salad. They released each other's hands quickly, discomfited with their new found affaire de coeur. 'Yeah!!! I'm starving...What the hell is soup..la..kai..?' Mulder said, having no idea what Phil was offering. 'Souv..lakia..Mulder..it's grilled meat on a skewer..a kebab to you and me..' Scully said sarcastically, mildly amused at his lack of awareness of Greek culinary delights. 'Oooo someone's been reading the phase book..' he gave back just as sarcastically. Scully gave him a little sneer and grabbed some stuffed olives.. 'Do you need a hand..or..' she began..asking Phil..remembering her manners. 'No..your my guests , just sit back and enjoy..' Phil was in better spirits as they all settled down to their meal. After dinner they all went for the short walk to the harbour. The little boats moored up, tinkled as the cool breeze stirred the ropes against the masts. The water lapped gently against the harbour wall. The moon began to rise as the light faded. The sky turned brilliant red and orange. and the stars began to come out one by one. The hushed voices of idle chatter surrounded them, as they past taverna after taverna. Other promenader's nodded there hellos as they past. Scully strolled between both men either side of her, gradually falling in love with this tiny village. Eventually they reached a small taverna on the far side of the harbour called Hirodotos. Nikos's own restaurant. It was open, his staff still opening up every night. They had to earn a living. Phil was part owner so he helped keep it going. Besides it had a busy clientele, all the locals went there to eat. Life went on as usual after such tragedies Mulder and Scully sat on the small terrace overlooking the sweep of the harbour, and Ithaca opposite. Happy to sit, drink in the view and ambience. Only to smile at each other occasionally. While Phil did his rounds inside with the locals. Eventually he came out with a couple of cool drinks and sat with them. After a few moments..Phil spoke. 'Over there. Mulder..can you see the rocks?' he pointed.. 'Yeah I see..' Mulder felt a little uneasy, and tried to get Phil's attention to say no more. But with little success. 'What about the rocks?' Scully enquired, genuinely interested. 'Thats where I saw..' Phil started but Mulder jumped back at him.. 'Oh Phil was telling me where he saw a special bird..a few weeks ago..' his eyes like saucers to try and let Phil know, he didn't want to involve Scully just yet..Phil realised, as Scully turned first to Mulder then the Phil, and back again..She was no fool.. 'OK..So 'when' are you going to tell me what the hell is going on? Or do I have to feel like the third wheel the whole two weeks..?' she sounded a little annoyed to Mulder, but Phil didn't know any better, and took it in good heart. 'Maybe tomorrow Scully..lets just enjoy the evening..OK?' Mulder urged.. Reluctantly Scully resigned herself to that and relaxed. Neither man broached the subject again that night. The rest of the evening went off without incident and they ended up playing backgammon till the early hours. Phil and Mulder swopping silly stories about their escapades, during the years they both spent at Oxford. Which kept Scully amused for hours. Mulder noticed how much Scully had relaxed, as did Scully, about Mulder. It was a refreshing change, to know that Mulder hadn't always been obsessed with the paranormal.. Finally, all a little tipsy, they wandered aimlessly back to the villa, to have a well earned sleep. ****************** The following morning, Mulder woke to the groan of his stomach, crying out for food. The sun had been up couple of hours and it was already looking hot. A big smile crossed his face until he attempt to sit up. Then he r= ealised how 'strong' ouzo really was. So with the start of a thumping headache, and a stomach that thought it's throat had been cut, he walked straight into his partners room. To get some Aspirin. Expecting to find her still in bed or in the shower, he headed straight for her medicine bag. The one she never left home without. Found the pills, he downed two, dry. Then opened her curtains, turned towards her bed, and found her gone. His first instinct was of panic. Where the hell was she? he mused. Then he deduced she must have been up early, and gone for a walk. So he headed for the shower, got dressed in a pair of trunks and nothing else, and headed for the kitchen. 'Afternoon Mulder..Sleep well..?' Scully chuckled, at his still damp hair, un-straightend from his shower. And the fact that he had his head deep in the fridge searching for food. He jumped and hit his head on the top of the ice box, turning abruptly to scold her, for causing him to hurt himself. But when he saw her standing in the arch way, dressed in a bikini top and a emerald sarong slung low around her waist, he forgot what he was going to say. 'Ouch..humpf..Oh..OH..Hi Scully..' he couldn't help but stare..she walked straight up to him and smacked his shoulder not too gently. 'Ouch!' Mulder didn't know what he had done to deserve that. Rubbing the afflicted area. 'That's for B S'ing me..I've been talking to Phil. He told me why we're 'really' here. You didn't have the decency to tell me..you're such a...' 'God Dana..you look..' he couldn't explain it..he was lost for the right adjective. 'I look what?..Pissed off?, Angry? What?' she pushed again, still annoyed..moving nearer him, using what height she had to try and intimidate him. But with minimal effect. 'Sexy.,,' he whispered, still agog, entering her personal space. 'What?' she settled a tad and sat at the counter, on a little wicker chair beside the stove. Sipping the glass of juice she had carried in with her. 'I said you look 'sexy'..and angry, and pissed, but 'very' beautiful..' he added generously. Her eyes widened when she heard him properly, caught off guard by his compliment.. 'Don't try and humour me Mulder..I'm still annoyed you didn't tell me from the beginning..' 'Look Scully.. I'm wearing my speedo's..' he waggled his eyebrows at her, trying to lighten her frosty mood, and possibly distract her.. 'No dice Mulder..I'm not biting..' 'OK..OK..I give up..I was going to tell you, but I was choosing my moment..I was hoping you wouldn't need to get involved. I honestly thought that I could do this without you. I still do!' he grabbed a slice of water-melon and began devouring it. 'You are just 'so' frustrating! You lied to me! Phil tells me there are some autopsies to be done. Tell me Mulder..who did you expect to perform them hey? Not you, last time you saw a body organ, you mistook a stomach for a spleen!' she rumbled on like a dying thunder storm.. 'Sorry..I. am. 'really' sorry Scully. It won't happen again..' he gave his puppy dog pout. The best one he could muster, and by God he needed it! 'Yes it will Mulder...Anyway, I've told Phil I'll do the autopsies, then I'm gonna relax. You two will have to do the rest..OK?' trying to control herself from grinning devilishly. He did look positively ravishing in his purple trucks. The gossip from the FBI's swimming pool was 'very' accurate. 'Fine, thats fine Scully..Anything you say..' he gave her another grin, happy she had conceded that much at least. 'Right..well..Phil is lending me his jeep. I'm going in this morning to do the autopsy's, then I'm hitting the beach..The rest is up to you ..' she finished, stood and walked past him to her room to change. He let out a sigh as she went, relieved he escaped with his life. Grabbing another piece of melon he went to find Phil. When he did, Phil was sitting painting the view. His usual pastime. 'Hi Mulder..sleep OK?' 'Yep thanks..' There was a pause. As Mulder had a sneak at the painting Phil was working on. Then sat down to take in the view. 'You know Mulder...Your a bastard..?' Phil started, not looking up from his task. 'How so?' Mulder had to chuckle.. 'You and Dana..You should have told her. About why your here. She at least deserves that much respect..' 'I 'do' respect her, I'm very fond of her..' 'Fond?!?!' Phil turned around briefly to look at Mulder slumped in his chair, spitting the seeds from the melon slice over the balcony. Phil's tone sceptical and chastising. 'Ok..Ok..what is it today, get at, 'ass-wipe-Mulder-day'? Geese..I love her OK? Are you satisfied?' he squirmed in his chair. Having a peak over his shoulder, to see she didn't over hear. 'Well that much 'is' obvious!. But thats not the point! She came out here this morning, and chatted about how pleased she was to be here. Then she asks me about all the espionage we have been throwing around. I didn't lie. And she was very sweet and understanding. She said she'd do anything she could to help out. She seemed so sad that you still, after five years, couldn't bring yourself to tell her..and frankly Mulder, she has every right to be mad as hell!' 'I know..I know it's just so hard for me to upset her. Like I knew this would. And to top it all , I have to admit, 'yet again', that I can't do this job without her...I am trying..' Mulder stopped before he confused the hell out of Phil. Because he didn't know what had gone on, in that now famed hallway of his, or what he had said to her. Or how hard it had been to tell her, his deepest most private feeling towards his partner. 'OK Mulder don't tell me, tell her..God you were always hopeless with women..I mean look at you and Phoebe?' Phil knew that would get Mulder squirming.. 'Ouch!!! that hurt!! haha..' Mulder grimaced and then shivered suddenly, as if the thought of his failures then, turned his spine to ice. Phil turned around briefly again, this time chuckling at his mates reaction to the mention of 'that' women again. 'So have you got any theories?' Phil asked gently.. 'One or two..but nothing concrete. I'll keep you informed though..' 'You do that..' Phil nodded, engrossed in his painting which was now looking more like the view every minute. 'I'm off...' Scully came around the corner of the building dressed in the only thing passable for professional ware, she'd brought. Her tone resolved and steady. Mulder jumped up like he thought something had bit his ass. 'Right..Ok..Do you want me to come?' Mulder offered eagerly..a smile as a peace offering on his lips, melon in his hand. 'No don't worry..I see you both later..' She grabbed the piece of melon from Mulder's hand and walked off towards the car. Mulder watched her go, then went after her. Reaching the car door before she got a chance to close it fully. Phil chuckled as he saw Mulder run after her. 'Scully!..' he grabbed the door to hold it open. 'Yes Mulder..' as if she were bored with a small child's questions. 'I just wanted to say....' he looked to his feet, feeling 'exactly' like a child. 'Yes?..' Scully helped him along, sweetly..Both her hands on the steering wheel. Mulder paused as he thought what he wanted to say, loosing his nerve he blurted, 'Drive careful..' he gave a small grimace and then a scowl at his lame remark. Not having the courage to say what he really wanted to. 'Ok..I will...' Scully's heart sank, what did she expect? she mused, A 'serious' apology? I do trust you Scully? I do respect you? I love you? Oh boy..Who was she trying to fool. It would never happen. 'Remember they drive on the left?' he added pathetically 'Like in the States Mulder?' a sarcastic smile on her face. Already forgiving him. How could she resist those pec's and that tight little powerful ass, squeezed into those lovely speedo's. And 'that' pout.. 'Yeah..don't be sarcastic!..I was only..' she interrupted him. 'Yeah I know..your sorry..all is forgiven. You owe me one Mulder..' she flicked the ignition..and pulled the door closed. Slamming the car into gear. 'Owe you 'one' what Scully?!?!?' he chuckled, over the roar of the engine. Not being able to resist a smutty comment. She huffed out a laugh and moved off smiling at him 'See you later..' she mouthed, a smile adorning her features. He waved and watched her go down the track, and onto the main road out of town. **************** On the drive into town, she began to wonder what she would find at the morgue. Obviously there would be two bodies to autopsy. But she had little idea what she was looking for. She didn't know is there was suitable facilities or a place she could send the toxicological samples. This wasn't Washington. So she decided not to worry now, but to enjoy the view as she drove. To make the most of her trip, she decided to do a little shopping after she was done, and maybe have a meal out. Besides she had earned it. Or at least, will have earned it. This was suppose to be her vacation after all. ***************** Back at the villa, Phil took Mulder out on his boat around lunch time to show him the place where all this took place. When they got back Mulder was deep in thought. Phil was cut up because he was reliving the whole episode in his head, as he explained things in detail to Mulder. So they both ended up alone with there thoughts, Mulder on the beach, with a book he had brought. And Phil back to work on his painting. ****************** Scully entered the small Doctors surgery. A little chubby lady stood to greet her. 'You must be Dr Scully?..Dr Kalpi is expecting you..please go through..' From the outside, the surgery looked dishevelled and grimy. But inside the rooms were pristine and well furnished. Ceiling fans and Air-conditioning were plainly evident, from the cool air Scully felt on her face, as she was ushered through double doors, leading to the said Doctors room. Scully decided it would only be polite to try her phase book Greek when she met the doctor. No harm in trying, and besides its always fun, and showed respect. As she entered the room Doctor Kalpi stood to greet her with a hand shake of crushing proportions. 'Kalimera Iatros Kalpi..' she said with a shaky smile, knowing how bad her accent was.. He gave her a huge toothy smile and spoke, 'Not bad...but the accent needs work..' then he chuckled, Scully breathed a sigh of relief. 'Thank you for letting me do the autopsy's. Thats a professional courtesy you didn't have to extend...' Scully sat and straightened her skirt.. 'Oh..it's me who is honored..Dr Scully. An FBI trained doctor using my humble facilities!? I couldn't be more overjoyed..' he genuinely was pleased she would be doing the work.. Scully just nodded, appreciatively. 'So I think you would like to start straight way?..May I assist you?' Kalpi offered eagerly. 'Yes..Yes..I'd be delighted if you would..' So with that, they were up, out of their chairs and heading down a corridor towards the morgue. Scully must have looked a little nervous or amazed, because Kalpi said, 'Although we are a small island, we service a few smaller ones, as Athens is the other nearest morgue. Most people think..small island, small mentality, but they are naive.' 'Oh I didn't mean to offend it's just that, I was surprised to find this all here. From the outside it looked a little worrying..' 'I see..' Kalpi smiled generously as he flung open the doors to his morgue. Every thing had been set up for her arrival. The bodies were laid out. The instruments, perfectly set out in order, beside each corpse. A Dictaphone tape machine, with spare cassettes! something she always ran out of.!..Robes and gloves all handy and pristine.. Scully took all this in, and was quietly impressed. Kalpi smiled with pride, he could tell 'Scully FBI' was impressed. So without further ado, they robed up. ***************** 'Time..1.30pm Dr Dana Scully performing autopsy, Dr Kalpi assisting...Nikos Malpa, a male Caucasian, age 32. Time of death unknown. I'll begin with an external examination. The body has extensive bruises and fractures. Blood seepage from both ear's and nose. Eyes, dilated and right iris blown. Bubbling fluid residue around mouth and nose indicating, drowning or affixation. Oedema present around all joints, and gut.. ' Scully continued.. 'Dr? Could you take hair and fiber for me?..' 'Yes certainly..' and he set about his tasks., quietly and efficiently 'Left tibia, with a compound fracture at approx. one inch below petella. Right femur protrudes 1 1/2 cm from thigh. Indicating severe trauma to the skeleton. Sternum and at least three ribs fractures. Two vertebrae fractures and several small bones in the left hand also fractured. Finger nails broken on right and left hands, and what looks like human epidermis under them. Scull..my God this man is a mess...scratches visible around both temples and ears. Possibly self inflicted.' she interjected. turning to her colleague. 'And this all happened on a boat during a storm? It's quiet incredible..' she continued. Kalpi just nodded.. 'Most of these injury although potentially life threatening, most were not fatal in my opinion. The massive oedema, bruising, and fractures, is consistent with eyewitness accounts of a ship wreck. Most injuries probably occurred while subject was immersed in water, being hit repeatedly against the rocks, or wreckage. I am unable to determine whether the external injuries happened post mortum. Although some were defiantly, post mortum. The skull fracture was the fatal blow. At least three inches of cranium is missing, at upper left quadrant, and a third of the brain lost. Possibly due to predation while immersed in the water. Or to repeated blows and sea encroachment of the internal structure. The blood seepage around nose indicates, blood loss internally, due to stomach impacts, and possible ruptures internally..And ears..Yes..both ear drums burst..with what looks like...Oh my goodness..thats unusual..' 'What is?' Kalpi walks over to Scully, interested.. 'The incus and anvil look...shattered..like glass. Incredible.. I've seen this kind of trauma before but never have I seen this kind of splintering, such complete disintegration. It's almost like the fine bones in his ear were shattered by some kind of sound. I have no idea at what decibel that would occur...Although Phil's narrative would suggest that the noise level at the time, may be accountable , but to this degree, I'm highly sceptical..' she stepped back to allow Kalpi to observe the injury. 'Maybe a bomb?...' Kalpi interjected.. 'That kind of damaged would have to be done at a distance. Other wise the body would be decimated. But obviously that is not the case. But yes maybe a sustained decibel level or pitch could cause that injury..' she offered. 'Make note to check for same injury on next subject. Now I'll proceed with the Y incision...' Scully continued to perform a thorough and analytical autopsy. With the assistance of Dr. Kalpi. Which to her pleasure halved her working time. 'Conclusion: Both subjects I believe died by drowning. Two and a half litres of salt water in lungs substantiates this theory. However, I have noted that some of the injures were post-mortem and some we're caused by the tossing of the boat during the storm. Possibly, the subject hitting the sides of the boat repeatedly. Both parties were conscious as they entered the water. None of the injures sustained were self inflicted or by an other party. with one exception to both bodies. Both ear drums in both subjects were burst, and in addition, both inca and anvil were completely destroyed. Possible conclusions are, a bomb blast at short range, but body intactus would be contra-indicated. A high decibel pitch at close range, sustained long enough, could have produced that kind of disintegration. However, I am unable to give any theories at to what could cause such damage. The evidence suggests a loud sound of some kind, caused these internal injuries. Because both subjects seemed to have been holding or clawing their ears, as both skin scrapings from under the nails, and the scratch marks around the ears are consistent with this. Added to that the witnesses account of a 'deafening' sound at the time of the incident. Which cannot be substantiated. Tox' screen will be sent to Athens direct tomorrow. Recommendations, release for burial. No further investigations required. Dr Dana Scully..Finished autopsy 6.30pm.' Scully slumped back in a chair. As she finished her final report to hard copy. As she did, Kalpi returned handing her a glass of fruit juice. 'Oh...how lovely I need this...as do you..Thanks so much for the help or I could have been here all night!' 'Your welcome..Miss Scully..It was a privilege to watch you work..' 'Oh. well ..' she didn't know what to say to that kind of sincere flattery. But blush. 'Now you must come and have dinner with me I know a little taverna close by, then I'll get someone to drop you back at Phil's. It'll not be a problem..I insist..' he stood and left her to change back into her 'normal' clothes. Actually quite pleased to be having a night alone. Mulder will have to stew for another day. ************** Phil and Mulder strolled down to the harbour for a late dinner, Mulder refused to let on to his friend, that he was concerned that Scully hadn't come home as yet. But Phil was perceptive enough, and around 10. p.m. he reassured him. 'Mulder..she's Ok..I bet Dr Kalpi has taken her out for dinner. He's like that, anyway he said he might if she wanted too. He was really quite excited to have her on his island. He had read a monograph she had written in some doctor journal and has been intrigued to meet her ever since...' 'Oh I wasn't worried..' Mulder lied.. 'Whatever..' Phil chuckled, as they strolled back to the villa silhouetted by the full moon. **************** 'You know Dana..there is a myth that might explain what we saw today...' Kalpi began after he handed her some baklava. Her eyes lit up when she saw the sweet cake, swimming in honey before her. 'Really?' she sounded intrigued. Maybe it was the moon light or the incredible view, or the delicious food she had consumed, but hearing another tall tale told by someone 'other' than Mulder. Made it all the more interesting. As she took a piece of the cake into her mouth he began. 'It was widely believed that a mythical creature used to lure sailors to there deaths on the rocks around this island. They were the Sirens. Beautiful sea nymphs, with bodies of birds and the heads of beautiful women. They were the daughters of the sea God Phorcys.' he stopped when Scully's astute mind began to kick in. 'How did they 'lure' the sailors..' she enquired..charmed by the soft voice of Kalpi and the wine she had consumed. 'Well, it is said that they sang so sweetly, so exquisitely, that the sailors followed their songs and perished on the rocks between here and Ithaca. But another tale tells of Odysseus, sailing past the islands they inhabited safely, by filling his companions ears with wax, and lashing himself to his masts, so he could hear their songs safely, while the crew steered his boat by. But because the Sirens failed in killing Odysseus, they threw themselves into the ocean and perished...' he finished with a subtle smile, noting how he had enthralled Scully in his little late night story.. 'Well..I think thats a wonderful story..and you tell it so well..' 'Arh.. but is it a story, or truth? Most story's originate in truth, most of the Bible tales were truth, now some consider them fable.' he posed the question.. 'Are you saying fable has now turned truth?' she smiled sweetly, continuing the debate.. 'Hahaha..I'll let you know when I see a a bird with a woman's head shall I?' he gave back quickly, throwing his head up to the moon lit sky, with a throaty laugh.. 'But..this is not the first time, Miss Scully, that I have seen such injuries..' he continued.. 'Really?..' Scully leaned back in her chair, to listen. 'I have been checking my files. A few years ago, before I arrived here from Athens, my predecessor made some observations about a similar event. Three other deaths were investigated. A small flotilla was cruising the area around the islands and a storm hit without warning. Two of the pleasure craft survived, one other was not so lucky. The crew perished in much the same way. The autopsy's where performed revealed inner ear damage and scratches of similar nature around their heads...' 'What were his conclusions?' eager to know.. 'Much the same as yours..but..'he' believed it was the...Sirens..' Kalpi grinned, humouring Scully.. Scully just nodded charmingly, taking a deep breath and sat up straighter. It had been a tiring day, but a interesting one. She had met a fellow physician, who was an engaging man. Good fun company, and told a tale with vigour. But she 'was' exhausted. 'I'll drive you home, and my son will follow in my car to drive me home..' he offered as they drank their thick black, extremely sweet coffee.. 'No thats fine really,..' she gushed a little embarrassed she was causing so much trouble.. 'No No I'll not hear of it, besides it's a beautiful night, maybe we will spot the Sirens..' he grinned leaning into her, making her chuckle.. 'OK..' she wasn't in the mood to argue..she had a big comfortable bed with her name on it, crying out for her to slip under the covers... *************** The sun reared it's brilliant yellow head again, the following morning. The powder blue sky darkened as the sun rose higher over the horizon. Gulls swooped and soared on the thermals as they rose off the sea. Little fishing boats and large ones, had already returned to the haven of the small harbour of Fiskardo. Fishermen, washed and untangled their tired nets, while the Captains sold their catches to the shops and tavernas. The day trippers arrived, filling the tiny scattered beaches, small flotillas arrived and left with every hour. Dogs walked aimlessly or slept soundly in shady back streets . Old men sucked on long clay pipes at the edge of the street, barely wide enough for a car. Women gossiped in streets and over coffee. Toothless men and women, with haggard and weather torn faces, watched with pride filled eyes as, the tourists took pictures and admired the subtle pink, blue and white washed houses backing the harbour walls. The tide of life much slower here, so it was not surprising that Dana's life had slowed too. It was way past 11.am before she stirred, to the smell of fresh coffee and yoghurt smothered with rich honey. 'Hey sunshine..' a voice whispered in her ear, causing a shiver run down her left side. She felt the mattress, sink a little as he leaned her breakfast tray beside her. Then without opening her eyes, she could sense how close he was to her face, his breath sweet and warm, washed over her cheek as he spoke.. 'Hey...?...Scully? 'he tired to wake her again.. 'Mulder I'm asleep..' she oozed, still reluctant to wake 'just' yet.. 'Ok..sorry..I'll come back later..' he sounded disappointed. He was. 'Noooo..it's OK..I'm up..' she rolled over, almost forgetting she had jumped into bed last night without her nightie. Almost exposing herself to him. Not that he would have minded. But she still had her morals. So pulling the covers up to her chin, she eased up onto her bottom, and offered him a grin. Sensing he was eager to know what she had found out. At least he had brought her breakfast!.. He slipped onto the bed and helped her balance the tray on her lap. Again he was just wearing his speedo's, she noticed. Not that she 'minded', she was rather enjoying the view. She took her coffee and downed it on one. Licking her lips of the sticky essence that remained on them. Then turned her attention to the yoghurt and honey. Taking a spoon she delved in, as he watched her consume her bowl full. She hummed and arh'd until she had finished, while he said nothing. Content just to be with her. He had missed her. He had been worried about her. He had been jealous of Dr Kalpi, having her all to himself, for most of yesterday. 'Did I do good..' he grinned childishly..eager for her approval..which she gave.. 'Oh you did very good indeed..Just what I needed..' she smiled sweetly, licking her lips and sinking back down onto the soft mattress, with the crisp linen sheets wrapped around her form. When he thought he had waited long enough, he asked.. 'So how did it go..?' he ventured nervously.. She took a deep breath, and let it out slowly, her eyes closed once again. 'Death by drowning..severe injuries caused by the wreck and storm. No reason to investigate further....' she paused and opened one eye, to see him staring intently, he knew her too well, he knew she was omitting something.. 'And..?' he pushed verging on the excited.. 'And..' she whined closing her eyes again..giving her head a annoyed shake at his aroused state. 'Go 'on' Scully...' he pushed..he stood and waited like a tiger ready to pounce on it's victim. 'Well the ear drums were burst, and several bones in the inner ear were damaged. Which I can't explain.. yet..' she added for effect. But by this time, he was hopping with delight around her room. 'I 'knew it!..I knew it!..Sirens!...' he chuckled with delight. 'What?!? Mulder, how can you say that..?' incredulous..remembering the story she had been told last night. And the implausible narrative Phil had related to her. 'Sirens..they are sea nymphs, that lure sailor..' she interrupted, as he began his customary spew of mythical tales.. 'I know what they are!...Were!..tsk..might have been!..I was told the MYTH yesterday..' she shook her head in disbelief. 'Ok..So tell me what your theory is then..?' he challenged.. 'I don't have one. The poor guys were so corrupted by the traumas they suffered, it's not surprising they endured agonising pain. Which quite possibly caused the injuries I saw. The scratches, and the inner ear fractures...' Mulder interrupted her.. 'So you are stating you have basically no idea how that ear injury occured..Then why is it soo hard for you to accept that there is a possibility that the Sirens are accountable..?' he garbled.. 'Mul,,deerrrr..there ..is ..no..such..things..as..' he interrupted her now..wagging his finger with a well meaning sneer on his face..he had something to challenge her with now.. 'Arh!! You said that about UFO's but! we've seen them, seen aliens!, Christ you've even been 'abducted' by them!!..' he ranted excitedly, not realising that he had touched a nerve she was happy to leave untouched. Without realising what she was doing, she was up and out of bed, heading naked to the bathroom. Unaware, or caring what he thought. She needed to be away from him, now. 'Shit!..' he stopped and cussed mid sentence, backtracking his words and grimacing, his heart heavy with remorse. As the bathroom door slammed behind her. He moved slowly towards the bathroom door, heard her in the shower and entered. 'What the, fffff...' She started, as she peered around the curtain, wide eyed at him, for entering her only piece of privacy. Livid with him... 'Look Scully I'm sorry..' 'For what Mulder?..For barging into my bedroom this morning without knocking? For coming in here with out my permission? For being the most frustrating bastard I have ever known? For lying to me? For not trusting me? For throwing my scientific theories out the window without even considering them? For turning my holiday into a bloody nightmare? For always butting into my life when your not wanted. For reminding me endlessly, of things I'd rather forget? What Mulder, tell me what your sorry for..?!?!?' she screamed at him. Her hair soaked, her face and torso flushed. Her hand gripping the shower curtain so tight, it was in danger of being ripped from the wall. 'YES!! I'M FUCKING SORRY!!..what else can I say..I always seem to be saying SORRY to you! When was the last time you apologised to ME!?!? Having to put up with your PMS moods. Your closed and unyielding mind. Never saying..Ok..Muldeeeer you were right..' he sneered that one, in her monosyllabic tone. 'Always having to pussyfoot around the FACTS! that you WERE abducted! That you? DID see a UFO!..You never say thank you for all the times I've saved your 'short' little ASS!!..' he ranted moving closer and closer to her still in the shower.. Ooooo that last one hurt.. 'GetOUT!!' she screamed like a wailing banshee. 'NO! I've seen it all before anyway! Your nothing special!' he spat back.Taking a unappreciative glare at her naked, wet form..both remembering in a flashback, inside the UFO, and how he rescued her. 'You bastard!!' she controlled her anger and hurt for a few more seconds. Her tears welled up and threatened to fall. But she would be dammed,= if she was going to show her pain to him. 'Bitch..' he goaded back..Then it came.. THWACK! She slapped him square in the jaw..her hand stung with the impact but she didn't show it. He grabbed her hand that had just made contact with his jaw, and pulled her from the shower. 'How dare you hit me!?!' he grimaced. This tiff getting beyond anything they had ever done to each other before. Their anger way out of control. A petty disagreement ballooning into a verbal slinging match.. 'What? Are you above reproach now as well?' she sneered. but ashamed she had let herself get this angry. Her ire so intense, her heart thumping in her chest, her body quivered with the adrenaline racing around her veins. He wasn't any better off. 'MAYBE I AM!' he yelled into her face, his eyes blood shot with his own adrenaline rush.. 'LET GO of me!..you single celled amoeba, God your insane!..Let go!.. Your huurtttting meeeee..' she struggled to get free but he wouldn't let go of her arms.. 'JESUS I should bang seven shades out of you for that!!' he pulled her from the shower room and flung her into the bedroom, she stumbled and fell heavily on the bed. Her breakfast try sent crashing to the floor. She righted herself as best possible, straightening her hair from her eyes. The wind in her lungs leaving her in a whoosh..He stomped in after her. She only just notice how turned on she was, and his arousal was plain to see, poking above his trunks. But before it registered in her brain the words were out. 'Oh that would be right! HIT me or FUCK me! Prove your the 'big' man you want every one to 'think' you are!!' Like a lion stalking it's prey, he neared..his eyes aflame with desire. As if her words had rung a bell in his head, he closed the few feet between them and swooped down on her mouth with his own. Not softly or gently as they had 'nearly' done before. But with anger, pain and greed. Lust thrown in for good measure. She was terrified for a few seconds, then she pushed him back, off her with both hands on his chest, her nails nipping the skin. She sunk her teeth into his bottom lip and bit down, hard. 'ARRHH..!' he screeched as she released him. Shocked at her own action, noting with terrifying clarity. That she had drawn blood. He wiped his lip, and looked at the back of his hand, smeared with blood. She rested up on her elbows to wait for his reaction. He looked up at her, then back to his hand. His eyes paled, his shoulders dropped and he left the room in silence. Closing the door quietly behind him. She held her breath, her stomach churning, then the tears came. ****************** After a few hours of laying low in her room, she heard a knock at the door, her heart pounded and Mulder entered dressed, in a T shirt and shorts. He seemed oblivious to her rattled state, in his hand, he held an envelope. Which he handed to her. Barely making eye contact. 'I think it's the tox' report from Athens..' he spoke quietly and evenly, making her feel even more uncomfortable. 'Geese that was quick..' she offered as lightly as she could. He stood waiting for her to open it. As she did he took a seat at the end of her bed, picking at his finger nails. 'Both men were clean, except a small amount of alcohol in Stavros. Not enough to have any major effect though..' 'Anything else?' he asked quietly without looking her way. 'Nope thats it..' the tension between them was oppressive, if not stifling. He gave her a little smile before he got up and left again. Eventually she decided this was stupid, she couldn't stay in her room the whole time like a frightened mouse. So she grabbed her stuff for the beach and headed down to the little bay in front of the villa. Mulder sat chatting ideally with Phil as he continued his painting. She thought better of telling them where she was going. And just went. The beach was deserted and she settle herself on the silver sand, near a boulder, so she was slightly obscured from their view. She guessed only her ankles and below would be visible, to the men above her. Put on her stereo, and applied some cream. Laid down and got lost in her Texas CD for a few hours. When she woke, she was hot and sticky, so she went for a swim, leaving her bikini top off, but left her panties on. It took a while for her to get in to the clear cool water. When she got waist deep, she could see the small fishes swimming around her feet. The sun was high, with no wind to speak of. And absolutely no one else about. This was her idea of heaven. Except she had no one to tell that too, or to share it with..Which only made her throat close up again, she dived under the gentle surf, to rinse away the tears. ************ 'I think she may be thirsty when she get out..don't you?' Phil spoke for the first me since they saw Scully settle herself on the beach. 'Maybe..' Mulder mumbled..still re-running their fight in his mind. 'And she needs someone to do her back, this sun can be a killer, if your not careful..' Phil added nonchalantly. 'Mmm..' Finally he got up and went to fetch her a cold drink, from the well stocked fridge. Phil afforded himself a smile as Mulder made his way down the track that led to the small beach below. As he watched Mulder go down to the sand, Scully emerged from the surf. Phil put down his paint brush and went into town for a while. ********************* Scully walked slowly up the beach, not bothering to hide her breasts from him. What was the point, as he said this morning he had seen it all before, and he wasn't impressed. Which made her even more self conscious than she already was.. He watched her walk towards him, impassive to her undress, he picked up her towel and walked slowly to meet her half way. 'Thanks..' she took the towel and carried on walking drying herself chastely, knowing her face was not only flushing from the glow of her newly acquired tan. 'Your welcome..' he nodded, turned slowly on his heels and followed her back to her little nest she had made herself. She lay down, on her back again. He sat nervously beside her. In silence he watched the sky, the sun, and the waves. Till he remembered the cold drink he had for her. Which was probably warm by now. 'Oh!..hey..I brought you a drink!' he spoke quickly if not a little too loud, because she almost jumped up with the shock. He handed her the can of diet soda, which she took, with a grateful nod and a smile. 'Sorry...I made you jump...' he chastised himself, 'No it's me who should be sorry..I jumped off the deep end this morning. And I'm 'so' sorry I bit you..' she looked abhorred, that she had inflicted so much damage on her favourite piece of her partner. That little piece of flesh, had fuelled so many of her spiciest dreams over the years. He sucked the tender flesh in between his teeth and smiled.. 'No damage done..' he kept looking out to sea. 'Let me check it? I don't want you catching Tetanus or something..' gingerly.. she managed a smile, urging him to look at her. This had gone on long enough. He turned to face her, offering his lip for inspection, she raised a shaky hand to his mouth and slipped her index finger along it. It was almost healed up. Although he flinched a tad as she touched a particularly sensitive area. 'Sorry..' she said almost inaudibly. He looked straight at her. And she him. Their eyes locked together, for what seemed like an age. Until she leaned in slowly towards his battered lip. 'I'll kiss it better..' she whispered, her throat dry, her heart thumping so hard she thought it may come through her chest, or worse, give out. Terrified he would rebuff her. He didn't flinch, as she oh so gently kissed the little patch of purple skin. He could feel her softness, touch then retreat. He wanted more. He held back a smile as she moved away slowly to say, 'Better?' he shook his head slowly and pointed to another part of his lip which was also in slight pain. She looked inquisitively at the area he was pointing too, and did the same to that piece of skin. Kissing the area tenderly. Again she leaned back, catching his eyes with hers, a smile caressing her lips now. 'Here..' her said and pointed again..the grin forming on his features, was getting hard to conceal. 'There?' she pointed, amused at this silly little seduction. He nodded, she obliged. A low reverberating hum emanated from his chest, when she stayed where she was, placing tiny little wet kisses all along his mouth, from corner to corner. She became bolder and ran her tongue along his sore bottom lip, careful not to hurt it or inflict anymore damage. He stayed absolutely still, until he just had to reciprocate. 'Scully...? 'he whispered, wanting to say more but not knowing what to say to make the things he said, all better. 'I know..It's OK..' she continued to pepper his lips and moved to his cheeks and nose, his eyes and ears. Kissing every millimetre of the skin she was finally allowed to touch. Incredibly aroused by the thought of kissing her taboo fantasy. 'I..' he muttered..unable to throw the words out of his throat, his arousal very evident. 'Yeah..it's OK..Mulder..' she whispered into his ear, blowing gently. And finally lapping his ear lobe with exquisite pressure.. He rumbled something into the air around them. Something incoherent. Which made her chuckle. Wow she was getting her Mulder, Mr Cool..very hot!.. Her soft chuckle made him snap from passive to offensive in the blink on an eye. He pulled back to look at her, the enigmatic Dr Dana Scully, had reduced him to a penis with a man attached. His erection, could have bored a hole in the rock beside them. He was sure. 'Love you..thats what I was saying..I love you..' he got out before he forgot all coherent thought and didn't remember later to tell her. It had the desired effect, she blessed him with a huge, full blown, Scully 24 carat smile. Teeth, gums and everything. His heart soared.. As did her's.. ************* 'How's your lip now?..' Scully grinned adolescently at him, unable to contain her joy, on hearing his declaration. He snorted a laugh, and pulled her into his arms, she nestled her head on= his chest, feeling the wisps of hair tiggle her cheek. She snuck a glimpse at his member, still protruding from the top of his trunks. Almost cutting off his circulation to that body part, because they were so tight. 'Mulder..?' she held back a chuckle.. 'Hum?' he was so engrossed in the feel of her so close to him, he had forgot about his sexual health response, and was just content to hold her, and be held. Happy to watch the sea, the diamond glints atop the waves, and inhaling her scent along with the ozone. A delectable concoction. She shyly slid her hand down his chest, along the line of hair that went down to the object she was entranced at. And whispered.. 'I think we have a problem here..' her fingers barely touching the outline of the impressive erection, she had before her. It had been 'way' too long since she had seen such a erotic sight. She began to lift her head to face him, as she continued to caress him. Her touch bringing him out of his reverie. 'Oh..that...it'll go down in a minute..' almost apologising for himself coyly, Scully had to chuckle and was a tad disappointed with his remark. 'What if I don't want it to 'go down'?' she tried to hide her amusement at their awkwardness. They were like a couple of teenagers. Not knowing how to proceed in this dilemma. He leaned back ever so slightly to see her face clearly..His nervousness plain to see, 'I don't want to rush this.. or you..' he attempt to explain his tardiness to end what they had begun. 'Rush?..Oh Mulder..' she wanted to shake him. '...Your not rushing me..I've waited 'so' long Mulder...I 'know' you have too.' her tone even, gentle and honest. She didn't know what else to say..she was exasperated..Her gentle caress of him slowed and ceased. 'In my hallway..' he began cautiously, quietly..'When I tried to kiss you, you pulled away, I thought you were trying to be kind, you know?.. let me down gently?' Scully began to explain but he stopped her with his fingers on her lips, engrossed for a second as his thumb slid from one side to the other, revealing in it's texture. Scully stilled..and waited.. 'I know the fucking bee stung you..' he shook his head angrily, ' But after you never broached the subject..So I presumed that it was just the once. A lapse of propriety. A moment of madness you wanted to forget as quickly as possible..' his eyes full with unshed tears, he stared into hers, waiting for her reply. 'Mulder..you have just let me kiss you... lot's of times..' she smiled sensually. 'How do you fathom that I didn't want ..this to happen..' she gestured to the closeness they were currently sharing. 'I'm crazy for you too..you drive me 'insane' but I never stopped loving you. My heart doesn't work that way I'm afraid...' 'Mine either..' he giggled like a schoolboy, at hearing the only words he ever needed to hear from her. There was a gaping pause, 'So are we gonna screw each other senseless here or in the villa? ' he added, back into his macho, un-romantic banter..Causing her to blow out a exasperated snort of disaproval..Turning away from him, pulling from his embrace..a little annoyed..And he was doing 'so' well..she mused.. 'Hey..I was only joking Dana..' he ventured her first name knowing that always made her turn to mush before his eyes..something he loved to witness. His hand swept continually from her shoulder to her tattoo. Where he paused, and leant in to kiss the small colourful snake. As he did he felt a shudder, of what could only be describe as, pure electricity shoot up her pine. She straightened her back, arching it further, allowing her eyes to close and her mouth to open to retrieve the air she needed. Her neck arching, turning her face towards the sky. 'You like that..don't you..?' a little mischief in his voice.. 'I love to touch you there..It's my place...' he whispered, ending by rolling his tongue around the loop of the pattern. The breeze drying the moisture he left there, made her groan loudly, as the shocks sprinted back and forth along her spine, and shoulders..and down to he toes. 'Yyy eess..' she oozed, realising he was asking a question and that she better answer it, before she melted into the sand. And totally embarrassed herself. Involuntarily her hands strayed back to his torso, as she turned towards him again, her eyes still closed, his hands caressing her tenderly, his mouth moving from her back ,under her arm, towards her breast. Eventually his slow journey ended at her right breast, where he licked precisely around the reddened peak, and covered it completely with his substantial mouth. Scully was sure she heard angles singing, as she gripped his head with one hand, to keep him to his task, the other, she stroked down his back.. 'Mulder..' she sighed evocatively, as he began to suckle, tenderly at first then harder and faster as her moans grew more urgent. Her nails nipping the skin on his back as she collapsed slowly back to the towel, below her, he followed not loosing contact. He thought his chance had arrived to show how good he could be. He had planned this assault. Wrote the strategy with painstaking accuracy. Night after night, he played through his analytical mind, how he would make love to her. Now, after all that planning and re planning, he was finally going to implement that well conceived strategy. Her hands were everywhere, gentle, caresses, sometimes a tug or a light scratch on his sensitive skin. Which excited him even more..She found her way to his member, straining against the unyielding lycra trunks and in one swift move they were half off his hips. He pulled up abruptly from her breast in shock to see her open her eyes..a wicked sexy grin on her face.. 'What..?' she gave innocently..as she stoked her thumb around the side of his glands. Appreciating the girth and satin feel of the skin she had uncovered.. 'You are 'so' wrong Mulder, if you think I'm gonna lay back and have all the fun alone..' she chuckled..She knew him so well. 'But..I have plans..!?..' he pouted, miffed that she was not as passive as he presumed her to be..but still very amused..and pleasantly surprised. 'Oh?' she bantered back, squeezing his hot pulsing member in her tiny hand. Raising her brow, how she always did. 'Ohhhh....yes...I have ideas..' he oozed as he felt her tighten her grip and begin a firm but elaborate rhythm on him. She relished his face as he grinned and took sharp breaths, excited by his reactions, she became bolder and firmer with her erotic caress. His eyes slamming shut, his neck arching, his hips starting to pump into her grip. 'I wanted to...Oh Dana..that feels too good for a Catholic girl to know..' he opened his eyes with glee to hers. She was utterly amused at his shock and elation ridden face.. 'Flatterer..' she sneered happily, claiming his mouth suddenly, he almost lost it there and then, as her mouth and tongue demanded entry..He flinched violently, as the lightning bolts shot from deep in his groin, to the tip of his engorged cock. They both moaned and duelled for position and sensation. He lifted his leg over hers and up towards her crutch. When he made contact at her apex, she jarred fiercely in his arms, and whimpered. Delighted he had got such a reaction he pulled her bikini bottoms down, she lifted her hips to help. then there was a frantic few moments, as she kicked them off and away, and Mulder struggled free himself. Their mouths never loosing contact..Till finally they were, skin against skin, hot flesh against hot flesh. His right hand, he drew down her torso towards that which he had just rev= ealed, it entangled with her's for a moment, but they rearranged themselves admirably. Both parties laughing, into one an others wet mouths.. 'Touch me..' she urged, gasping the words..He did, he went straight for her rosebud, slick and swollen. He knew she would be clitoral orientated..She was. He slid it around the pad of his first two fingers, rejoicing in her quiet sobs and wetness. Then he pushed swiftly those two fingers into her, his thumb circling relentlessly on her now pulsating clitoris. 'Oh..Mulder..' she trembled, as he performed this intimate act.She spread her legs wider, drawing her knees up slightly to give him better penetration and access. Her hand working harder and faster on him, as her passion rose. 'I want to rapturise you with my mouth..' he gushed..over wrought with arousal. If she could have blushed anymore she would have. But was past careing..She just nodded frantically. Understanding what he was implying. Touched by him asking permission.. Her fantasy about that eloquent, plump tactile mouth of his, was going to be fulfilled. She nearly spontaneously combusted, when he slid up from kissing her mouth and slid down her body, his scratchy 5 o'clock shadow, heightening her already peaked state, as it rasped delicately against her sensitised flesh, of her lower abdomen. She dare not open her eyes. For fear he would see her all consuming lust. Ashamed at her of her own desire. 'I love you Dana..' he breathed into her auburn curls, with that he was tasting her, her eyes, opened suddenly to the sensation, which shook her soul. Catching her breath in her throat, clenching her fists.. His mouth, tongue, and teeth, were everywhere. She stared at the sky, her legs trembled. As he laved and suckled, fingered her deeply, to find her sweet spot, high inside her pulsing vagina. He gave her no rhythm to work with. Just sensation to drown in. To be consumed by. That exquisite mouth, causing more heat to emanate from her lower regions. She had no reason to be jealous of those bloody sunflower seeds, he constantly played with. Now she knew. Now she could relive this, and never be jealous again. Deep strokes inside and around her slick petals, around her clitoris, varied in speed and pressure. The taste-buds, on the flat of his tongue, like glass sand paper. A erotic change from the soft, wet heat, the tip of his tongue released into her body. Turning her belly, limbs and head into liquid fire. 'MyGod.'n.'heaven.' she whimpered..her hands covering her eyes. All she could hear was her own breathing, the sea's endless hum and Mulder, slurping, licking, moaning. She pondered her thoughts, this was indeed the most erotic, sensual thing she had ever taken part in, or felt, or heard. Albeit, passively. Her peak arrived violently, without any slow luxurious build up. It hit her like a shock wave from a distant explosion. She cried out to him, her body not her own anymore, but his. He sensed her climax and zeroed in on her clitoris, flicking constantly at the raw flesh, hypersensitive, quivering and huge. Her hands grabbed his head, in reflex action to the zenith. Mulder groaned his approval and suckled, heightening her bliss. Which she, inwardly rejoiced in. As soon as it had arrived, her climax waned, like the tide, leaving her fizzing, like sodium on water, as the last tremors ebbed away. She didn't notice him leave her, until she opened her eyes again to see him, licking his lips, grinning like the tom cat, that got the cream. Scully was too sated to even grin back. He positioned himself and entered her slowly..His whole back arching to the feel of her, still pulsing from her unearthly orgasm. 'Ohhhhhh..' he drew out lovingly, his eyes full, her's transfixed on him. Each reverse stroke, he sighed deeply again. She took his face in her hands, and kissed him, softly, letting him do what ever he needed to, to be bewitched, like he had just made her. Her tongue played and caressed his, in perfect tempo with the centuries old motion. She began to squeeze him with her, so under used, inner love muscle. And was elated when she did, he sobbed his delight. 'Beautiful... so.. beautiful..' he garbled as he neared his peak, desperately straining to wait for her second climax. His organ being gripped and released like a udder in a milkmaids hand. His bliss complete. 'Let it go...' she whispered..unconcerned she wasn't close yet. She= was still orgasmal from his incredible mouth. It seemed to her, every time he pushed himself deep within her, she came a little more, little shock waves still darting along every nerve ending she possessed. Sweat started to bead on his brow, she could see the tension on his face, from holding back. She realised she wasn't going to win this battle. He was determined to get her off again. She had an idea...she smiled to herself and pushed him over as she rolled with him, straddling his hips, and re-impaled herself on his glistening organ. The penetration so much deeper and easier for her to control, to bring him off, without him working too hard. 'Hey..?' she grinned, getting his attention back, as his eyes refocus on their new position..She stroked down his face, with her fingers.. He gave her a happy, yet coy smile..She didn't think he much enjoyed the prospect of her watching him, as he had her. But turn about was fair play.. 'Hey..' he whispered back.. 'You were working too hard..I thought I'd take over for a bit..' she whispered, as she squeezed his organ to compound her argument..nuzzling his neck playful, dropping wet kisses over his nose and eyes. Tasting the sweat he had seeped. 'At.. your mercy am I?..' he chuckled nervously..as she watched his cute, glowing face, react to her technique. She couldn't resist a peek at the way their bodies were joined. The girth of his cock, opening her wide. The exquisite sensation as he slipped in and out, Watching as the head of his cock all most left her body, pouting her inner lips, to ooze more moisture from her, to lubricate the whole manoeuvre, over and over again. She had to clear her head. This was her and Mulder..finally united in every way possible. A defining moment in their tempestuous history. 'Wow..' Mulder had seen what she had been staring at. The joining of their bodies. This one word brought her eyes back to his...She was a little taken aback that he had caught her, but when she registered that he had felt the same, all she could do was grin sheepishly. 'I can't believe were actually doing this...and so well..' she whispered lusciously to his lips, before she kissed him again. 'Pretty phenomenal I'd say..' he pushed up her once, hard and fast, taking her breath away. Her head thrown back in pure abandonment to the rapture. Her hand found where they joined, and she began to massage her clitoris with proficient digits. 'Oh Jesus Dana......' he was aroused beyond reason at her masturbating, while fucking him. She felt his organ swell yet more, as she rode him and herself towards oblivion. His palms gripping tightly on her waist, her's on his chest to steady herself. The sea rushing to shore, ebbing and flowing at the same tempo as the lovers. The sun's rays burning their skin and sand around them. Two fascinating shadows dancing, cast by the sun, on the sand beside them. Mulder unable to hold on any more, started to pump as best he could, letting go all restraint, as she worked her magic on his most valued possession. Her fingers practised and controlled, sped up to join him, as he threw himself into the abyss with her. The slow smoulder began, until the inferno was unleashed, ignighting both of them into a fire ball of sensation, and elation. While their minds took over all reflex functions, like breathing. Their bodies bestowed one, cataclysmic orgasm apon them, which they both shared. Mutual cries of ecstasy rang around the trembling, throbbing pair, as they clung desperately to one another, as they rode out the firestorm together. Eventually Scully collapsed on top of him, and slid beside him, one leg still draped over his tired thighs. Their breathing slowed to a manageable level. Mulder rolled onto his side to snuggle up closer to her. His hand played leisurely with her nipples as she fell quietly to sleep. His caress gentle, so tender, making sleep come that much quicker. He followed not long after. *************** When Mulder woke, Scully was in the sea..splashing around, cooling down..and rinsing off. She beckoned him in, he ran up to the surf, ran straight at her and dived under the water, to swim through her legs. But she misinterpreted his intention, and fell backwards as he tried to swim through her little legs. They came up laughing and gasping for air. Clinging to each other, trying to stabilise one another in the swelling surf.. 'God I haven't skinny dipped since I was at Martha's vineyard!..' he exclaimed slopping around in the water like a fish. 'Oh!..Mulder look at this..' she pointed to her left breast, with a very definite hand print on it, obviously made when they were asleep. The sun silently leaving evidence of their afternoon of lovemaking. She was so annoyed, her brow wrinkled in disbelief. She looked stoney face at Mulder who was trying to keep a straight face. But with little success. He began to laugh uncontrollably at her, trying to grab her into a hug..but she was not a happy puppy. Eventually she began to see the funny side and started to chuckle. 'Here, come here..' he urged through his fits. Placing his hand on the other breast caressing her sensually..Which she swooned too. 'Let me even you up..' he cracked up again. 'Bugger!..Look at it..I look like a freak!!' she took a closer look. 'No you don't..you look gorgeous. It's better than a hickey...' he cooed, slipping his arms around her waist stealing a long wet French, salty kiss, from her swollen pouty mouth. 'Mul..deer..!' she chastised his organ prodding her stomach, with some amusement. 'Come on Dana..in the sea?' he bantered, hoping she would part take of sex in the ocean. 'What?!? In the sea? Are you insane? Do you know how dangerous it is, for a woman to have intercourse in the sea?' she waffled on, shocked.. 'Arhh Come on Scully..Man came from the sea..' he urged kissing her neck, licking the salty drips off her clavicles and face.. 'No..Mulder, not in the sea..Besides it's getting late. Phil will be worried...' she started to walk back towards the beach.. 'God you got a great ass Scully!' he shouted as she waddled onto the beach, shaking her ass in his direction playful, grinning at the fun she was having. Relishing how liberated, and replete she felt. 'I'm going to shower..I'll see you later?!' she called back to him, he nodded and gave her a wave. Turned, dived under the next breaker, and swam out. *************** That evening and those following, the two had got into a routine. Breakfast, swim, lunch, nap, dinner, stroll the harbour, bed. It was a casual and utterly relaxing holiday for Mulder and Scully. With a major undeniable difference. They were lovers. They made love as often as they could under the circumstances. It was very liberating for them both, to be that free, to express their mutual emotions, so openly and without fear of retribution, or prying eyes. Neither partner could have been any happier. So it was no surprise to Phil after that first day on the beach, Mulder moved into Scully's room. ************* The day of the funeral, which Phil had arranged, was another beautiful warm day. The kind of morning that Nikos had loved. So they were told by Phil. He was to be buried at sea. A simple ceremony. Phil had asked for Mulder and Scully to be with him on the boat, which they were happy to attend. Nikos had no family, they had been killed in a car accident some years prior. All his family now, was Phil and his friends he had made around the islands. Nikos's body was brought by his friends and colleagues to the little boat that Phil had at the end of his jetty. They said there goodbyes and left. Leaving Scully, Mulder and Phil to sail out alone. They set off around noon for open sea. Past the fishing grounds where Nikos use to collect his catches. Until Phil cut the engine. Scully and Mulder stood quietly on the deck while Phil said a few words. Phil paused, as he gathered his thoughts, obviously distressed, the two partners allowed him time.. 'I haven't the words to express my grief, but I do know of a poem that Nikos and I both loved. It was said at his parents funeral, he chose it. So I again choose it here.' Mulder took Scully's hand as Phil placed his hand on his shrouded lovers heart.. 'Stop...all the clocks, cut off the telephone, prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone...' his voice tremulous as he continued. 'Silence the pianos, and with muffled drum. Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come. Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead. Scribbling on the sky the message, He is dead.' Phil's tears started to fall, Mulder let go Scully's hand and comforted his friend. Helping him read the poem. His arm protectively around his shoulder. 'He was my North , my South, my East and West. My working week and my Sunday rest. My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song. I thought love would last forever..I was wrong.' Phil wiped his eyes, leaned heavily on Mulder unable to continue, so Mulder finished.. 'The stars are not wanted now, put out every one. Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun. Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood. For nothing now, can come to any good....' Mulder's voice barely a whisper, as he concluded..He pulled Phil to him for a few moments. Phil stood straighter and moved towards the covered body..placing a kiss on top of the Nikos's head..whispered something and let him slip to the sea. ******************* On the way back to shore, Phil handed out glasses of red wine, and made a toast. He began..Shouting above the chugs of the small engine, from the helm. As Mulder and Scully sat at the stern..watching the waves.. 'To all the people we have lost..may they rest peace..' flicking on a small cassette player, which came up so loud shocking Mulder and Scully for a moment..Phil's huge smile was comical as the song began to play..it was none other than Rod Stewarts, Sailing. Which made Scully and Mulder turned to each other, trying not to laugh.. 'Go on you can laugh!! It was Nikos's favourite! He was a incredible human being but had fucking 'lousy taste in music!!!! It was in his goddam will!!! He knew I hated it! I'm sure the bugger just wanted to wind me up..He wants me to play it all the way back to shore...!! Can you believe it?!' he hollowed over the sound of the surf and boat..Cracking himself up.. Mulder and Scully couldn't help to laugh too.. Having lightened the mood, Phil seemed in better spirits and Scully and Mulder relaxed a little more, to finally enjoy the trip. It truly was a glorious day. Phil was singing at the top of his lungs and encouraged the partners to join in. Which they reluctantly did. Scully notices something coming towards them at a terrific speed from the south. She nudged Mulder who stopped singing, still with a silly grin on his face to see what she was pointing at. When he saw, he stood quickly and ran to Phil.. 'Phil..whats that?' he pointed nervously..Phil looked to see what he thought it was.. 'Thats it..thats the bloody squall! Jesus not again..' He slammed the engine into high gear and took the shortest route back the shore. Mulder went back to Scully.. 'Phil says it's the same squall that he saw the day Nikos died, he's going to get us back as quick as possible..' Mulders voice sounded scared, Scully got up and ran below deck to find life jackets, there was only two. When she came up again, Mulder was at Phil side watching the sky come down to meet the sea...A wall of water seemed to be coming their way. Scully's heart missed a beat. It was an eerie feeling as they watched in stunned silence, the weather turn on a coin. From calm, glorious sunshine, to black evil skies, a wind that could be heard growling towards them, like a freight train. 'Put them on..!' Phil shouted, gesturing to Scully's hands, as she held the life jackets.. 'What about you?' she shouted above the sea's angry toss. Barely managing to keep her sea legs. 'I'll be fine..put them on ..NOW..its coming..!!' he insisted. Mulder was not happy, his stomach had began to churn, her was already hanging over the side, evacuating his breakfast. Scully struggled to get the jacket on him, once she did, the rain began.. The power of the sea had always intrigued, if not seduced Scully. But now she was terrified. She fumbled desperately with the feeble ties to hold the jacket on, they were warn. She didn't think they would hold if in she ended up in the tumult, the jacket may come off. 'Mulder! What about Phil!?!' she cried out, at him looking green and already exhausted. Still concerned for his safety. 'Tie him to the helm!' he screeched over the commotion. She nodded and began to stagger towards Phil who was gritting his teeth and screaming at the on coming storm. 'YOUR NOT GONNA GET ME!!!!' Scully reached him in moments found a strong guide rope and began lashing Phil to the strongest part of the helm she could find. He was oblivious, his rage at the storm taking precedence over her actions. When she was satisfied he was secure enough she return her attention to Mulder, who was precariously clinging to the side rails. Being thrown bodily around by the pitching of the fragile boat. Flashbacks to the two bodies she had autopsied haunted her, as she watched him thump against the rails repeatedly. By now the screech had turn to a vicious howl, and was rising..Her quick brain threw her the memory of Dr Kalpi's story..of how Odysseus beat the Sirens. So she crawled along the decking, to get below to find what she needed.. The craft, tipped and yawed against the crest and troughs of the waves, she was soaked through to the skin, her dress, clinging to her form. Surprising her how cold she had become. Goose pimples rising on her skin, her hair clinging to her soaked tanned cheeks, and scalp. The constant taste of salt in her mouth, a bitter cruel flavour. Her lungs bursting with the effort to inhale against the vacuum created by the severity of the wind, forced down her throat by the gale. Finally scrabbling around the limited resources within the small galley she found what she needed. The little craft and Phil were gallantly fighting their way towards the port. Knowing they had to navigate the rocks was another problem however. Because with each wave they were getting closer, the sky was getting lower, the sea more violent and the sound more deafening. It was impossible to see where safety was. As the wind, rain and surf, obscured there path. Scully couldn't tell where sky began and sea ended. One evil wave struck the boat making the hull scream in pain with the impact. In turn causing Scully to hit her head on the small stove inside the galley, cutting a gash in the side of her head. Luckily not knocking her unconcious. She fumbled for the all weather matches, lit the candle and began to melt the wax from it, pouring the melting wax into her hand. Causing it to burn the skin. But she knew she had to keep it warm if this was going to work. When she thought she had enough, she kept it warming her grasp as she crawled up on deck, not seeing Mulder there, her heart stopped. Fearing the worst, that he had been tossed over board already. Frantically she called out to him. 'MULDER!' she cried out over the screaming cacophony. 'SCULLY!!' he answered, her heart started beating again when she saw him, clinging desperately to the railings, over board. Phil unable to reach him, as he was tired to the helm, had been shouting for Scully to come. But because of the noise, was unheard by Scully below.. The sound so loud she had to fight the urge to cover her ears. She reached him, putting the small ball of wax into her pocket, and grabbed his arms. He was exhausted, almost unconscious from the battering he was taking against the outside of the hull. His eyes desperately searching hers, relief, terror and love shone through in one glance as she hauled him back over the rail. Using her full weight to accomplish her mammoth task. Immediatly she did she reached for the wax. Thanking her God it was still palible, she pulled away a chunk and split it in two. Grabbing his head she stuffed the cooling wax into his ears..as they rolled together on the decking. Mulder slung his legs around her to stay with her while she applied the wax. She repeated the same task to herself, almost blotting out the noise when she had finished. At least now it was bareable. 'I'M GOING TO HELP PHIL...HANG ON..' she creid out as she began the painfully slow advance towards Phil. 'OK!..' Mulder gave her a smile as he watched her go, suddenly the boat, hit by a wave of catastophic proportions, capsised it and Scully was thrown clear of the boat. Lost. Mulder screamed as he hit the bubbling water, thinking this was to be his last moments he called to her. 'SCULLY!!' He got no reply, and unable to see her, he lay still, letting the sea do what it wanted to his body. He had no reason now to live. Incredibly the life jacket was keeping him afloat, for most of the time at least. But he couldn't care if he lived or died now. His soul satilite had perished. He was in the water for what seemed like hours but was in fact minutes. He hit something hard, unrelenting and grey. Instinctively he put out his hand and found..land. It was the rocks about a mile out from shore. He crawled up against the sharp rocks, and realised the sound he was hearing was it's most loud where he lay. Above him was a cliff like ledge, high enough away from sea to be safe. So out of the saline mirth he climbed, towards the sound, drawn to it, by some compelling urge. At least he was out of the water. And alive. He was on the lee side of the rock formation, and within arms reach was the ledge. When he peered over the ledge, he saw, carved out of the rocks, through erosion of the sea and wind, a hole. A huge hole. And emanating from this hole was the sound which had caused the terrible unearthly caterwauling. Mulder began to laugh at the irony. Once he realised what was happening. He began to laugh uncontrollably. The rocks had, over many years, maybe even centuries, created a whistle. A ancient whistling device or siren. He understood now, that over the years and millennia, when a storm came in along the Straits between the two islands, in the right direction. The wind blew through the hole creating a loud scream. the harder the wind blew the louder the scream. No wonder the Greek forefathers made up a myth to explain their ignorance. It was the only explanation. Fact became fable. Not the other way around, as he had once thought. There were no 'Sirens' or 'black birds' with womens faces, just figments of the imagination. Remembered when heard, to fit the story. To fit the consequences. Scully had been right all along. A scientific explanation. As she presumed there would be. As soon as the laughter subsided, the tears of regret and grief began. Not only for Scully but for Phil as well. **************** The storm raged past and the ancient whistle began to subside as Mulder lay above the sea. He watched it pass away, into the distance. As the air cleared, the gulls returned from their havens. The sun emerge from the grey, and the sea settled. The temperature rose, and he removed his life jacket. Fumbling with the reef knot Scully had secured it with. He pulled the wax from his ears and rubbed his eyes, to purvey the ocean before him. Looking for the tell tale signs of the wreck. Nothing..as far as his weary eyes could see. Nothing. **************** Mulder clambered down the rocks, and walked along the narrow strip of sand to face the shoreline of the beach opposite, Fiskardo harbour. He could see small boat setting out to catch there fish for tomorrow. As usual. Hoping he could draw there attention towards him to be rescued. He was too tired and drained to swim the mile between the shores. He began to wave frantically to grab the little boats attention. As he dropped the five feet to the sandy shore he caught a glimpse of orange. As it drew his eye towards the colour, he began to walk quickly..hoping, praying to, he knew not who, that it may be her. It was. Scully lay deathly still, her face covered with her fire red hair, her legs askew, her arms above her head. A trail of where she had dragged herself from the sea, led from her feet, to where she lay. Mulders heart leaped in his chest. But sunk as he dropped to his knees beside her. He rolled her over gently to check her breathing. Leaning in low against her wan limpid lips to see, or feel, if she clung on to life. He wrenched the life jacket from her chest, only then realising he was sobbing. The gash on her forehead had stopped bleeding which was a bad sign. He checked her neck for a pulse. Nothing. So, Mulder began to use what limited knowledge he had, and started CPR. Pinching her nose, pulling her head straight, wiping her lips and cheeks clear of the sand stuck to her cool skin, allowing her neck to arch slightly, he checked for obstructions. Covered her mouth with his own and began to breath his life into her. He turned to see if her chest was rising after each breath. He 'was' doing it right. He placed his hands on her chest, between her exposed breasts, and began compression's. Five hard quick thumps and again he tried with the oxygen. Another terrifying flashback hit him like a steam train, as he continued to almost break her sternum as he tried to restart her heart. 'Come on Scully....don't you die on me..do ya here?' he whispered.. 'Don't die on me!!' he raised his voice, utterly convinced she was already drowned. 'Breathe God dam IT!!!' he thumped her chest with the full force of his forearm. Hoping to start her heart, with one massive strike. One breath, five massages. Repeat..check pulse..repeat. He remembered his training but when you do something like this on a friend or lover. It's so much or difficult and frightening. He began to tire, his whole body felt bereft of energy or belief. He didn't have the strength to continue. He lay his head gently to her chest and allowed his grief to consume him. 'Huh!..huh..phal....' Mulder jumped when he heard her cough, her docile lungs full of water began to react to there full sensation and expelled the excess fluid. Her breathing began, erratic, but he knew she was a live. 'Dana.?.' he whispered, tear stinging his eyes, his hands shook with relief. His heart leap in his chest. He cleared her mouth of the liquid seeping. He swiped the stray strands of hair from her eyes.. 'Dana..come on, come back to me..' his tears dripping down onto her face as he stroked her hair tenderly. Slowly she opened her eyes, and began to focus on him...he smiled through his tears, picked her torso off the sand into his arms, and rocked her. ****************** Two days later Phil's villa Scully sat on the terrace overlooking the ocean before her. The light thrown out by the steaming sun, reflected up off the mirror flat, cobalt water. To ignite the sky. Like electric blue silk, it shimmered. The hills sides whispered with the songs of wheatears and red starts, going about there business. Accompanied by the incessant murmur of the rippling waves. A book in her hand. A small jacket over her shoulders. She thanked her God for her salvation. Mulder stood quietly behind her, leaning against the cool villa wall, not wanting to disturb her thoughts or solitude. She had only come home from the small hospital this morning. Dr Kalpi, had sent her home after he was sure the risk of secondary drowning had past. 'Are you going to stand there all day..' Scully smiled and turned slowly towards him, 'watching me in silence?' she chuckled..turning back the majestic view. He walked to sit beside her and take his seat. 'How did you know I was there? Are you physic?' he said incredulously.. 'Ha!..No Mulder..I heard your stomach growl..' she grinned sweetly at him, as he responded by mouthing..Oh.. 'How are you feeling?' he spoke quietly.. 'Fine..fine..my stitches are pulling a little but thats a good sign..; she reassured him, touching the puckered flesh of her injury. Then there was a pause as they both lost themselves in their thoughts. Scully was first to break the silence. 'Have they found Phil yet..?' 'Yeah..he was washed up on Ithaca, they brought him back this morning..' Mulder dropped his head, sighing. Scully knew there would be no way he was alive. And by Mulders reaction, she knew her assumption was correct. 'I'm sorry Mulder..' she stroked a comforting hand down his back.. 'Thanks..What are you reading?' Mulder lifted the book up to read the title...when he saw it he gave her a cocked eyebrow.. 'Greek mythology..hum..interesting..' he grinned.. Scully explained.. 'I thought I'd read up a little..maybe to find some kind of explanation..' she seemed a little nervous, waiting for his reactions. She thought he may think she had come over to his way of thinking finally. 'Don't waste your time Scully..I know what happened..And you were right..There are no such things as Sirens..' 'OH?' she queried. Genuinely interested.. 'The 'Sirens' are in fact a unique anomaly to this region. Those rocks we were washed up on?..Well they had a formation on them, something like a giant whistle. And when the storm came, blowing at a certain angle, the rocks made that sound...' 'But how? I don't understand..' she sat up a little straighter in her chair, turning her body towards him. 'It seems 'El Nino' has allot to answer for. You know the weather condition that comes around every few years wreaks havoc around the world?' Scully nodded in silence, intrigued.. 'Well here in the Ionian isles, it's been doing the same. The squalls or little storms get whipped up at the southern end of the Mediterranean, and shoot between the straits of Ithaca. They hit an obstacle, the rocks we were washed up on, and the siren goes off. The channel between the two Islands acting as a megaphone. Increasing the decibel level the further you get from the eroded rocks..' he paused.. 'We were lucky..Phil and Nikos weren't so lucky. Neither were the seventy two sailors who were caught out as well...' 'Seventy two deaths!?..How do you know..?' she asked stunned.. 'I checked..Dr Kalpi and I went through the records at his surgery. We found similar accounts, with similar deaths of fishermen and holiday-makers, spanning fifty years. Each group of deaths coincide with the El Nino effect..' 'Oh my God!...Mulder they have to do..some..' he interrupted her, knowing what she was going to say.. 'There breaking up the siren as we speak..' he smiled tenderly.. Scully's shoulders relaxed with relief, and Mulder settle back to his comfy chair. 'But what about the accounts of black birds and woman's heads.? how do we explain that?' she pushed.. 'We don't. A trick of the light?..The way the sky fell to the sea, could all account for the apparition those people saw. Maybe they had all heard the story, and implemented the scenario when events began to happen..I don't honestly know. But what I do know is, that it was a scientific explanation....And you were right..yet again..' he said ironically. 'Yeah..maybe..but you were 'right' about the alien visitors..So I believe that makes us even..' she reached for his hand, offering him a warm smile. Acknowledging his long held belief. And reassuring him that she can also be wrong about other things.. He chuckled..kissed the back of her hand, as he did the first night they had arrived on the island. They talked silently, with their eyes for a few nano seconds. 'God I don't want to leave this place..I know it will have some sad memories but it is so quiet and peaceful..' she sighed looking back to the sea. lost in it's grandeur for a moment..Knowing they had to return to the smoke of the big city tomorrow. 'Yeah..but we can come back at Christmas..?' his ample tongue in his cheek, a tantalising grin on his face... 'What are you saying Mulder..?' Scully eyed him curiously. 'As of this morning, I am 'nearly' the owner of the villa. Dr Kalpi is acting on my behalf. It's obviously up for sale and I thought we could be happy here in our dotage..' he began to smile at her reddening cheeks..She only just taking in his words and there implications. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly..turning to look at his eyes for understanding.. 'Are you suggesting, what I think your suggesting?' she couldn't help her body tremble with delight, or the fact that her grip on his hand was now so tight she was cutting off his circulation. 'You didn't think what has happened between us here was a holiday romance, did you?' he looked hurt.. 'Well.. I..um..the thought had crossed my mind..' she said honestly. 'God you can be sooo insecure and dense Scully!' he chastised her mockingly.. 'OH!? And your not!?!' she chuckled, he pulled her to him and kissed her soft lips. 'Touch=E9. Scully..touche..' he conceded... ************* As there plane took off to take them back to Washington. A cloud appeared suddenly before a small fishing boat heading out of the Straits. A unearthly screech filled the air, the sailors caught in the tumult desperately tried to out run the storm. As they fell helpless to the deck, clawing there faces to protect their ears from the agonising scream, a pair of jet black wings descended and consumed the sailors and the boat.... End. Cue music.. ************ Authors Notes...For F*** sake FFFFFEEEEEEDDDDDBBBBBAAAAACCCCKKK!! Email: Bexbel@aol.com The term 'Wet Bobs' refers to an affectionate term used for college students, who participate in sport on the water. i.e.. rowing. And 'Dry bobs' for rugby or cricket players. Normally said of Eton college goers in England. Or at Oxford or Cambridge. 'ouzo' is a aniseed alcoholic beverage, clear in colour, but turns milky white when mixed with water. Poem read at funeral is by W.H. Auden. 1907-73. Titled: Twelve songs. First line of recited poem by Mulder by John Masefield 1878-1967. Titled: Sea fever. 'Sirens' were usually associated with the island of Sicily. But for this tale I used a little poetic licence. As Odysseus was said to have settle on the isle of Ithaca. I didn't think this was much of a stretch..go figure..LOL Thanks for reading..Bexbel. ***************