"Not Just a Phase" R; Kavanagh/OMC; for wiseheart
Title: Not Just A Phase
Author:Santa Claus
Recipient: wiseheart
Rating:R
Pairing: Kavanagh/OMC,
Spoilers: 38 Minutes
Warnings: Mpreg
Summary: An alliance between Atlantis and the Ralian people has far-reaching consequences, especially for Calvin Kavanagh.
Author Notes: Written as a Secret Santa for wiseheart, who wanted 'Kav getting the girl (or boy, I'm not that choosy) before the nose of Sheppard, Kav & Halling friendship, Mpreg (any male character will do)'. Many thanks to missyvortexdv for gracious beta help.
~
Major John Sheppard eased the puddlejumper into a low orbit and turned to McKay. “You know about allergies. Reckon I'll have trouble with bugs after what happened last week?”
Sheppard had almost died after an alien insect had attached itself to his neck the week before. It might have been less traumatic if the puddlejumper hadn't got stuck in the Stargate as they tried to return to Atlantis. The jumper had now been repaired, but this trip was for Sheppard to make sure the craft felt alright.
“How should I know?” dismissed McKay. “I'm sure you've never had any trouble getting bitten, why should anything change?”
Sheppard was about to deliver a cutting retort when the space ahead of them rent apart and a ship appeared. “What the...?”
He swung the puddlejumper away from the intruder and the jumper cloaked instinctively. “Atlantis? This is Sheppard. We have alien contact.”
McKay stared open-mouthed as Sheppard whipped the jumper around and approached the strange small craft from the side at speed. “What are you doing? It could be dangerous!” he shrieked, clutching the control panel in front of him.
“This is Atlantis.” Peter Grodin's voice came through clear and loud. “Sorry, Major. We've just had word that this may be a friendly visitor.”
Sheppard swore and pulled out of his race towards the silver ship. “Now you tell me! Who the hell are they?” He pulled the jumper back around and came to a hover nearby, the alien craft similarly suspended in the atmosphere.
“Ralian envoys, Major. Halling has just arrived, informing us of their intention to visit. He apologised for being unable to inform us sooner. Weir wants you to escort them down to Atlantis, if you've finished the jumper assessment.”
Sheppard sighed. “Halling? How does he know they're trustworthy? And did he tell them where we were?”
“Why don't you ask them yourself, Major? I believe they are listening to this right now.”
Teyla, Ford, McKay and Sheppard all gaped at the jumper display as an alien male face appeared in front of them. He was elderly, swarthy, grey-haired, and had an air of calm authority. Other than the dark pigmented markings across the bridge of his nose, he looked perfectly human.
“My apologies, Major Sheppard. We had intended to give you more notice of our arrival, but Halling had problems contacting you. My name is Jarek Novad, of the Ralian people. We come in peace to offer assistance in light of the awoken Wraith.”
Sheppard quirked him a half smile. “Well, that's very ... kind of you, Jarek Novad. Would you like to follow us down to the city?”
The man nodded and the display disappeared.
Sheppard looked around at Ford and Teyla. “I have a bad feeling about this. Have you heard of these ... Ralians, Teyla?”
Teyla smiled. “Indeed. They are an advanced people, but most secretive. They do not spend time with other cultures. We have always desired their technology, but as a people, I do not know them at all.”
~
Elizabeth had the guests brought from the jumper bay to the conference room, where she greeted them, and they all sat down.
“You are most welcome to Atlantis, gentlemen.” She smiled her best diplomatic smile. Sheppard and McKay sat on either side of her. Sheppard looked suspicious. McKay looked bored.
The three Ralians were on the other side of the table. Jarek, tall and noble, sat between two of his people. “Thank you, Dr Weir. We are honoured to be able to offer our assistance in this time of great need.”
Sheppard sighed. “What exactly can you offer us, Jarek?”
Jarek gave him a thin smile, and indicated with one hand to the man on his right. “My second-in-command here, Dak Fenor, can show you the technology that we possess on our ship. We can track Wraith vessels and monitor their breeding. This is knowledge which we have possessed for many eons. The time is now right to share this with you. Halling persuaded us of this.”
“I want to see their stuff,” McKay said firmly, suddenly interested.
Weir nodded. “Thank you, Jarek. I shall assign a team of scientists to work with you. You are all most welcome to spend time in the city. I hope you enjoy your stay.”
~
Calvin Kavanagh strode into the lab, glancing at Halling as he grabbed his laptop. “Hey, Halling.”
The Athosian smiled. “Calvin. Always in a rush.”
“I've been assigned to oversee the new technology from the Ralians. Anything you can tell me?”
“Only that it will be technology of great power. The Ralian people are a mystery to us, but I trust them.”
Calvin paused, and sat down on the stool next to his desk, laptop under his arm. “What do you mean?”
Halling closed his eyes for a moment, as he composed his thoughts. “We do not know how they live or work. All we know is that they possess ships and equipment that are far beyond anything we have ever known. They keep themselves apart. When the Wraith awoke, I knew that the Ralians may be of some assistance, so I sent an emissary to contact them. Some of their people always attend the Tar Nat ceremony, which is how I knew where to find them. Now - when are you going to help me with the communication device that has stopped working? I cannot communicate with Atlantis, and I need your help with it.”
Calvin sighed. “Halling, you know I would, but Sheppard is expecting me. And I want to see what these Ralians have got up their sleeve. Can it wait? You'll be here in Atlantis for a few days, right? Have dinner with me later.”
Ever since Halling had first arrived in the city of the Ancestors, he had found a friend in Calvin. They shared an instant frustration with the way things had been handled when their two peoples had first been thrown together, and had formed an easy friendship, in spite of their outward differences. Halling was a spiritual man, a man fiercely protective of his people. Calvin was a scientist, constantly battling in his team to express his own opinions. They seemed to have more in common than anyone would think.
“I would very much like to meet you for dinner, Calvin. Come to my quarters when you have finished with the Ralian ship for the day. And tomorrow you can help me with my communication device.”
“Great! I'll catch you later.” Calvin hurried from the room, giving Halling a friendly pat on the shoulder as he left, leaving the Athosian leader shaking his head in amusement.
~
Calvin hurried into the jumper bay and found Sheppard and McKay standing beside the alien craft.
Sheppard raised an eyebrow. “Glad you could join us, Kavanagh. This is Dak Fenor, he's the Ralian who can explain what we're looking at here.”
Sheppard had his hands on his hips, and his tone was sarcastic, but Calvin could tell Sheppard wasn't really upset that he was late. Since the whole jumper-stuck-in-the-gate debacle, during which Calvin had helped save Sheppard's ass, the Major had been quite civil to him, despite the fact that all scientists clearly annoyed him to a certain degree. Sheppard was acting more like he wanted to impress this Fenor person. Calvin looked at Dak Fenor. The guy was tall, broad, and, there was no other word for it - beautiful.
“Sorry I'm late. Good to meet you, um, Dak.” Calvin held out his hand.
The swarthy and handsome Ralian took Calvin's hand and shook it firmly, flashing him a broad smile. “And you, Dr Kavanagh. Sheppard has told me much about you.”
Calvin glanced to Sheppard, who shrugged. “Okay, well, let's get started, shall we?”
Dak Fenor proceeded to give them a thorough tour of the craft, and showed them the instruments that could detect and monitor the Wraith. Calvin was spellbound, and McKay was lost in his own thoughts as he examined the craft, but Sheppard appeared more interested in asking Dak Fenor about his homeworld.
“So, Dak, you guys have got lakes and mountains and stuff, right? Are there beaches?” Sheppard looked hopeful.
Dak, sitting underneath the control panel with Calvin, looked up politely. “Oh yes. We have the most wonderful beaches. The sand is pure white, and the sea is as blue as orfleberries.” He turned back to Calvin. “This is the converter, you can see it is connected to all engines at this point.”
Calvin nodded excitedly. “That's incredible. Even the jumpers don't have that kind of ratio ability. I really want to see a schematic of the whole ship.”
Dak smiled. “I would be happy to show you, Calvin.”
Sheppard peered down at them. “What do you say, guys? Will we call it a day? I think we can see that you people have equipment that we definitely want to get our hands on. You can work out the details tomorrow, right?”
McKay sighed reluctantly. “Yes, yes, all right. This detector is incredible, though. I might stay and ...”
“McKay,” Sheppard said firmly. “I'm sure our guest will be happy to let you look at it again tomorrow. Right now, I need to eat. Dak, would you like to join me for dinner?”
McKay sighed again. “Yes, okay, I suppose I ought to eat too. Can we come back and look at the ship first thing tomorrow, say 0700?”
Dak unfolded himself from under the control panel, and offered his hand to Calvin, who took it gratefully and also stood. “Of course, Dr McKay. And thank you for your kind offer, Major Sheppard. I am quite hungry now.”
They packed up their gear, and Dak sealed the craft. Calvin watched Sheppard and Dak Fenor making their way out of the jumper bay, McKay trailing after, and almost felt a twinge of jealousy. Dak was a brilliant engineer and scientist, and was really incredibly good-looking. Sheppard obviously thought so too, the way he was all over the guy. Once upon a time, Calvin might have gone for Sheppard himself, but he knew they weren't really compatible. Dak, however, was another matter. The guy was very attractive, but more than that, he was interesting and brilliant. He had the feeling working with him was going to be an enjoyable experience.
He wandered down towards the stairs to meet Halling.
~
“Was I correct?” Halling picked up his bread and waited for Calvin to answer.
Calvin glanced across to where Dak was sitting at a table with Sheppard, McKay, and the other Ralian. Dak caught his eye, and smiled.
“Sorry, what?” Calvin blinked, and adjusted his glasses, hoping he wasn't blushing.
“I asked you if I was correct about the Ralians having useful technology? I hope my trip was worthwhile.”
Calvin smiled. “Oh yeah, totally worth it. Those guys, they have stuff we can only dream about. Weir did the right thing for once and listened to you.”
Halling nodded. “That is true. I am also interested to see the Ralians interacting with all of you - this is a most unusual experience. They typically remain separate from us when we have encountered them before.”
“I like Dak. He's a good guy.” Calvin tucked into his dinner eagerly. “I can't wait until we get back to work on the craft in the morning.”
“What about my communication device?” Halling frowned.
“Don't worry, Halling, I'll get Simpson on to it.”
~
Sheppard was bright and early in the jumper bay the next morning, and Calvin watched him greet Dak as the Ralian arrived just ahead of him. Oh yeah, Sheppard liked Dak a lot. Calvin wondered what Dak would make of that if he knew.
“No McKay today?” Calvin asked as he opened his laptop.
“Nope, just the three of us. He says you can, and I quote, do all the donkey work today.” Sheppard grinned at Dak, who looked puzzled.
“A donkey is an animal of burden,” Calvin muttered, and Dak smiled knowingly.
It wasn't long before Dak and Calvin were fully engrossed in discussion of schematics and scans, and Sheppard was losing interest.
“Look guys, I think I should attend to some of my duties. If you can carry on, Kavanagh? I'll come back at lunchtime and take Dak away.” He grinned broadly at Dak.
“Sure, no problem,” Calvin agreed, barely looking up from his scanner.
When Sheppard had gone, Dak breathed a sigh of relief.
“Calvin, I think Major Sheppard likes me.”
Calvin laughed. “You might be right. I'm sorry, getting hit on by aliens isn't exactly good hospitality.”
A look of worry crossed Dak's face, before he replied, “It is not your fault.”
Calvin thought there was something strange about Dak's tone, but the Ralian scientist looked down at the computer in his hands, and before long they were deep in conversation about Wraith genetics.
Stretching his shoulders, Calvin finally decided they needed a break. Dak may have seemingly boundless energy, or he had yesterday, but personally he liked to take time to mull things over. Sometimes ideas came in a flash, like blowing the jumper hatch to save Sheppard, but other times it was more productive to take a step back and review the bigger picture.
Talking of which, Dak was looking almost pale, despite his deeply tanned complexion. “Are you okay, Dak? You look tired.”
Dak swallowed hard. “I ... It is true, I feel weak. Do you have a doctor in the city?”
Calvin caught his breath. “Yes, we have Dr Beckett. Are you ...? Maybe we should go there now.”
But it was too late, as Dak collapsed to the floor of the jumper bay.
~
Sheppard ran a worried hand over his jaw. “Well, Doc? Is he okay?”
Dr Carson Beckett had come out of the isolation room, and shook his head at Sheppard and Weir. “I don't know enough about his physiology to say for sure what's wrong with him. He won't talk to me, and Jarek is being most obstructive.”
Weir pursed her lips. “Is there any danger to the city?”
Carson looked less concerned. “That is one thing that Dak assures me about. I am inclined to believe him. I just wish the lad would tell me what he knows so that I can help him.”
Sheppard sighed. “I'll talk to him. Maybe Halling can get some sense out of Jarek.” He stepped forward to go into the isolation room, but Carson held his arm gently.
“Actually, Major Sheppard, son, Dak has asked specifically to see Dr Kavanagh, so perhaps you ought to wait. He might tell the man something that'll be useful to us.”
Sheppard almost gaped. “Oh. I see. Well, I guess I'll just wait then.” He was clearly put out.
Weir's smile was amused. “Keep me informed, Carson. And if there is any suspicion that our people are at risk, I want to know at once.”
~
“You gave me a scare, Dak.” Calvin sat down on the chair beside Dak's bed, and gave him a shy smile.
The man in the bed smiled back apologetically. The dark markings across the bridge of his nose had spread up to his forehead, and the pigmentation was noticeable. “I am sorry.”
“So...” Calvin frowned at him. “Why did you ask to see me? What's wrong with you, do you know? Those markings... you look different. Is that part of it?”
Dak chuckled. “So many questions, Calvin. From the moment I met you I knew we would be friends.” His brows pinched together as he looked at the other man. “I do indeed know what is happening to me, but I cannot tell Dr Beckett,” he said quietly.
Calvin's mouth opened. “You have to! He can help. Tell me what's wrong. Please.”
Dak held up placating hands. “I mean... I cannot tell Dr Beckett until I have told you.” He ignored Calvin's puzzled look. “Jarek told me I should not have come. But I insisted. He is most displeased with me, and he is right to be. This should never have happened.” He shook his head. “I'm sorry.”
“Okay, you lost me about a minute back. What is going on? And why do you have to tell me before Dr Beckett?”
With a deep breath, Dak said reluctantly, “I am, and I think I use a phrase you will understand, I am entering my reproductive phase.”
Calvin shook his head slowly. “Reproductive ... You mean, like, having children? What is your reproductive phase, exactly?” He wasn't entirely sure he wanted to know.
“Every Ralian male must carry a child once in his lifetime. We have one reproductive phase, at my age. When the time approaches, we form a bond with someone who will have the child with us. I did not believe that your people would be able to be bond-formers. I did not know it would happen here. But it has.”
Calvin sighed. It looked like Sheppard's attentions might bear fruit after all. Literally. “Well, it's understandable. I'll let Major Sheppard know. I'm sure he'll be pleased to know you want to have his baby.”
Dak laughed. “Not Major Sheppard, Calvin. You.” He looked carefully at Calvin. “I have formed a bond with you.”
One half of Calvin's mouth quirked up as he struggled to assimilate the revelation. “Me? You've formed this bond with me?” Oddly, it wasn't as freaky as he thought it should be. Besides, Dr Beckett could probably sort it out. But then a thought struck him. He frowned, and started to shake his head. “Oh no. Wait a minute. I know how this goes. Your reproductive phase has begun, and it can't be reversed. You have to have this baby with the bond-former, with me, or you die. How am I doing so far?” He folded his arms.
Dak nodded, surprised. “How do you know about our phase, Calvin? You are right. If I do not carry the child now, our child, then I may not survive. Jarek is so angry, and I don't blame him. This is...” He closed his eyes. “This is not how I imagined it would be.”
Calvin looked up, and blinked at Dak. The Ralian looked forlorn, sitting in the bed, his forehead dark with delicate patchy markings, his mouth turned down. “Hey. Dak. It can't be that bad, can it? There must be something Dr Beckett can do. Maybe he can give you something to halt the phase.” He reached out and placed a hand over Dak's. It felt warm, and Dak twisted his hand so that he could take hold, wrapping his fingers around Calvin's. It felt right, and Calvin had to bite his lip to control the sensation.
“I don't think there is time, Calvin. Dr Beckett will never have encountered anything like this. Even to the Athosians we are alien. That is why we do not spend much time with other cultures. We fear they will not understand us. And fear can be dangerous.” Dak took a breath, and looked weakened by all the talking.
Even as Calvin replied, he was hoping his words would be true. “We won't be like that, Dak. Everyone here is open to alien cultures and practices. If Dr Beckett can help, he will. If not ... If not, then I will do whatever I can if it means you won't be hurt. If you need to do this ... thing, then we'll do it.”
Dak held Calvin's hand tightly. “Thank you, Calvin. We have only known each other for a very short time, but I trust you, and I know you would be a good father.”
Calvin bit back his gasp as it struck him just what he had agreed to. He wasn't actually going to have to be a father, was he? He really hoped not, but if Dr Beckett couldn't pull something out of the bag, he was surprised to feel that he was prepared to do this anyway.
“Dak. I just need to know. Is there ... I mean, do your people use some kind of chemical, or pheromone or something, to make the bond? I mean, what I'm feeling - is this me? Or you? Or what?”
Dak smiled. “No. I understand what you are asking, and beyond only very mild and normal chemical balances present in all of us, as I suspect you know about already in your own people, what has formed between us is a bond of higher function. Does that make sense to you? You are as learned a scientist as I, Calvin. Yes, you triggered the phase in me, but the bond - no one can explain the bond with science. I suppose I could reproduce with any male, but such bonds often fail. I think I would rather die than have a different bond-former.”
Calvin nodded with relief, despite the responsibility he had inadvertently uncovered. “Yeah, I guess. Well, thank you. I'm glad. It makes a lot of sense. And none at all, naturally.”
~
“I cannot allow it.” Weir was adamant.
Carson took a deep breath. “I don't think you have any jurisdiction here, Elizabeth. This man has begun a physiological phase, and nothing you or I can do can stop it.”
Jarek nodded, his hands neatly folded in front of him. “I'm afraid he's right, Dr Weir.”
She took a deep breath, and looked squarely at Carson. “Then what do we do?”
“We can send them back. We could deny him a bond-former from Atlantis.” Carson's words were more of a suggestion than a solution.
There was silence for a moment. Jarek and Sheppard exchanged glances.
“But he could die!” Sheppard cried.
Jarek sighed. “Dr Weir, please. No one is more distressed than I that one of your people has caused Dak to begin his phase. You have already had my sincere apologies on that point. But the young man deserves a chance to form a bond, and among our people it is not thought prudent to create life with one who is not the bond-former. Dak is prepared to suffer the consequences, even die, if you do not allow your Dr Kavanagh to participate, and I fully back Dak in this decision. Please reconsider. Talk to Dr Kavanagh. I believe your people can be permitted to make their own choices in such matters. Dak's very life may depend on it. Let Dr Kavanagh decide. If he does not wish to participate, then we shall leave, and you will hear no more from my people.”
Sheppard took a deep breath in frustration, as Elizabeth sat still for a moment.
She turned to Carson. “Are you sure you can't reverse his condition?”
Carson shook his head. “I took him for a scan this morning. He's ready, Dr Weir, and I just don't have time to do anything about it.”
“Major Sheppard, tell Dr Kavanagh I wish to speak to him in my office now. Thank you gentlemen, I shall keep you informed.”
~
Sheppard escorted Calvin from his lab. “I don't know what you did to deserve this, Kavanagh, but I'm not jealous.”
Calvin glanced at him, amused. “I think you might have been, if there wasn't imminent death and or children involved.”
Sheppard smirked. “Yeah, I guess. So. What will you do? If he has your kid, you might never see him. Or her.” Sheppard sounded almost sad.
“We ... Dak and I have talked about that. I need to speak to Elizabeth. I'm thinking I might see about spending some time with the Ralians.” He looked tentatively at Sheppard, who wasn't really looking shocked.
“Yeah, that would work. And they could come here, I guess.”
As they neared the Gate room, they fell silent, but Calvin was amazed. Sheppard should be going crazy at the thought of losing a scientist, even for a while. Okay, so it was him, and despite his lucky idea the other week, he was hardly one of Sheppard's top friends, or any friend. Maybe Sheppard just wanted what was best for Dak. Or maybe he wanted to come visit on Ralia and sit on the beach.
He shared a nod of understanding with Sheppard and went into Weir's office alone, closing the door. She was pacing at the far end of the room, her arms wrapped around her, her face pensive.
“Dr Weir.” Calvin figured he'd rather say his bit first. “I just want you to know that I am prepared to do this for Dak. I may even leave Atlantis if I have to. I can't face the fact that he might die if I don't. I want to have this child.”
Weir stopped pacing and leaned on her desk. “That's very noble of you, Dr Kavanagh. But it may surprise you to know that it is your interests that I have at heart. This man is essentially an alien from another galaxy. One you have known for precisely three days, I may add.”
Calvin blinked. She had his interests at heart? “I know that.”
“Forgive me, Calvin, but I suspect you are counting your chickens before they are hatched - and I sincerely hope that metaphor won't come back to haunt me - but do you actually know how the sperm transfer will take place? I'm not prepared to let you put your own life at risk with some one-night alien stand.”
Calvin was genuinely surprised at her concern. And he realised that he didn't have the first clue about how he was supposed to get Dak pregnant. “I ...”
She shook her head, a sad smile on her face. “Really, Calvin. I didn't think I'd ever have to say this to you, but perhaps you really should think with your dick for once.” She laughed, not unkindly. “Look. I won't let you risk anything dangerous. And I can't let you leave Atlantis for the time being. We need you here, incredible as that may seem. Find out what exactly is involved, discuss it with Carson - he knows my views - and if you decide to go ahead with this, Dak Fenor can stay on Atlantis as long as he wants. If things change, if we defeat the Wraith, then I will reconsider letting you leave if you want, but my primary concern is your well-being, I'm sure you understand.”
Calvin nodded. “Thank you. I don't know what else to say.”
“Just keep me appraised. Except ... keep the details to yourselves, okay? I'll let you and Carson handle that one.” She smiled, and walked him to the door.
Calvin was blushing furiously. “Thanks,” he mumbled, and hurried out of the Gate room.
~
“Well?” Dak still looked pale, but his voice was strong. He was sitting, fully-dressed, on top of the Infirmary bed. Carson wanted him there, but he wasn't exactly ill. Not yet.
Calvin perched nervously next to him, his feet just touching the floor. “Elizabeth said some sensible stuff,” he said.
“And ...?” Dak prompted.
“She won't let me leave. Not now, not while the Wraith are a problem. She said you could stay, if you wanted. I'd appreciate being able to remain part of your life, and the child's.”
Dak nodded. “I can understand. I am happy to stay here as long as I am welcome. It is important to me that you know the child. What else did she say?”
Calvin took a deep breath, and leaned closer. Being so close to Dak was heady, powerful, arousing. He said quietly. “Um... Dak? How would we ...? How do I ...?
Dak chuckled, and pressed a kiss to Calvin's cheek. He whispered in his ear, and then pulled back, his sparkling eyes waiting for Calvin's reaction.
Calvin was wide-eyed, and touched his cheek where Dak had kissed him. “Oh,” he said. “What about the acid? Doesn't that ...?”
Dak laughed. “The phase suppresses acid production for a while, which is part of the reason it is dangerous not to conceive. It's probably the only time I would ever have been able to eat saxxenchillies every day for a month, if you had any here. There is a gland here,” he pointed, “where the egg is fertilised, then it travels to the womb.”
Calvin took a deep breath. “Well, I think that would satisfy Dr Beckett. But there's no way in hell we are doing that here. You'll have to come to my quarters.”
~
Calvin looked with concern at Dak. The walk from the Infirmary must have tired the Ralian, but he wasn't showing any sign of it. The door slid shut behind them as he switched on the lights. “Are you okay?”
“I'm fine,” said Dak firmly, looking around. “These are nice quarters.”
Calvin shrugged. “Chuck - the sergeant who assigned all the living space - he's one of the few guys around here who actually likes me. I'm kind of abrupt, you may have noticed.”
“And pushy,” Dak said fondly, and placed a large hand to Calvin's chest, pushing him back against the wall.
“You know me surprisingly well after only a few days,” he squeaked.
Dak met him inch for inch in height, and was more than a match in strength. He stood so close that Calvin could see every lash of his brown eyes.
“I want to get to know you better,” Dak said, his voice low and harsh in Calvin's ear, making him shiver.
“I thought you just wanted my sperm,” Calvin said nervously, feeling himself grow impossibly hard. He wanted Dak to push him right into the wall, to feel the other man hard next to him.
“Only if you are sure,” Dak murmured. “Although I realise that being faced with the possibility that saying no now means no blow job is not much of a choice.” He smiled, and leaned forward tentatively, kissing Calvin full on the mouth.
Calvin wrapped his arms around the other man, pulling him closer, into a deeper kiss, into contact that made his brain spark. “You're right. I can't be impartial right now. Let's do it.”
Dak chuckled, and slid his hands through Calvin's hair, pulling out the pony tail. “I can't wait,” he breathed, sharing another searing kiss. He carefully removed Calvin's glasses and set them down gently.
Calvin tugged at Dak's black top, wanting to be skin to skin. It was hard for them to undress while kissing, touching, licking, but in a few moments there were garments flung haphazardly across the room, and Dak and Calvin were still pressed together against the wall, hands everywhere.
Dak pulled away suddenly, panting, and Calvin had a chance to take a long look at his toned body, seeing now that there were other patches of dappled pigmentation in places that made him look even more incredible.
“This is it,” Dak said gently.
Calvin smiled. “This is where I close my eyes and think of Earth?”
“I'd prefer it if you'd think of me,” he replied softly, kissed Calvin chastely and then slipped down onto his knees.
~
The residents of Atlantis took to having a pregnant male alien in their midst surprisingly well. It helped that Dak was someone that got on with everyone. Calvin couldn't help but feel a little proud of his new and strange association. For one thing, it was impossible to hide, and he had never been one to care about what anyone else thought about him. Knowing that people were actually enjoying seeing an ever-growing Dak and a happy Calvin was kind of pleasing.
Some of the women had promised to knit things, and Halling and Stackhouse had some plan up their sleeve that Calvin suspected might produce a cot. Simpson said she couldn't knit to save her life, but would babysit anytime they wanted. Everyone being extra nice to him was freaking Calvin out even more than the thought of being a father.
Calvin put the tray of food down in front of Dak. “There was only red jello, is that okay?”
Dak looked up at him and smiled. “Perfectly. I am simply happy that we can have lunch together for once.”
Dak, despite his ever-increasing girth, had become an integral part of the engineering and science team, and both he and Calvin were often stretched to the limit working to solve the latest crisis in the Pegasus galaxy.
“I know. We'd better make the most of it.” Calvin grinned at Dak, who squeezed his hand.
“Calvin. Dak.” Halling greeted them and sat down beside Calvin. “Mind if I join you?”
Dak smiled. “Of course not, Halling. What brings you to Atlantis? I did not expect to see you today.”
Halling's face grew serious. “Dr Weir needed to ask me about the Daganians. I have told her all I know, but it is very little, and we all know how that turned out last time.” He threw Calvin an apologetic glance.
“Hey, don't.” Calvin pointed his fork at Halling. “None of this is your fault.” He turned to Dak who had opened his mouth. “Or yours, so don't say anything. I'm happy the way things have turned out, so leave it, okay? The baby will be here in a few weeks, and I can't wait. I know life is crazy here, but ...” Calvin paused. He felt he was about to say something really way too sappy and clichéd , so he decided it was better just to shut up. “It's going to be great, so no regrets, yeah?”
Halling and Dak exchanged amused glances.
Halling nodded. “No regrets, Calvin.”
~
Calvin paused in the doorway. He smiled, and quietly went over to the bed where Dak was sprawled over it, face down, sleeping. Resisting the urge to immediately wake the man, he let his eyes wander over the tanned skin, little speckles of pigment running down the length of Dak's spine. The man was still a little flabby around the middle after the birth of Matyo, their son, but he was working on it.
Calvin glanced across to the beautiful wooden cot that Halling and Stackhouse had made, seeing the peaceful sleeping baby. It made a change, that was for sure. Perhaps it had been all the attention and fuss from everyone in the city, not least of all McKay, bizarrely, but Matyo had not been a very quiet baby. He did cry a lot, and the relationship between Dak and him had been tested very thoroughly. It seemed to be getting a little better now, and Calvin was beginning to think maybe he might enjoy fatherhood after all. Especially if Dak would always be there to make it this good.
He leaned down, and pressed a light kiss to Dak's shoulder. He was about to pull the sheet up over his body, when Dak moaned and turned over.
“Hey, Calvin. Did the simulation work all right?” He rubbed at sleepy eyes.
Calvin smiled, nodding. “Yeah. McKay's happy. Sorry if I woke you.”
Dak shook his head, and leaned up on his elbows. “Don't worry. Matyo was fine tonight. I did some reading, and then, well, I must have fallen asleep.”
They shared a long kiss, and then Calvin crawled onto the bed beside Dak. “Does Radek want you back to work tomorrow, or are you going to hold off another week?” Calvin knew his voice gave away his unease. He didn't really want to think about it, but perhaps it was best they discussed this now.
“Calvin?” With a hand, Dak turned Calvin's face towards him. “What's wrong?”
He sighed. Keeping anything from Dak was impossible. The man had always known him too well. “I don't think the Wraith will ever be defeated. I don't want to leave Atlantis, but you must want to go back to Ralia. When will you leave?”
Dak smiled, puzzled. “Calvin. How can you even think that? I have been here almost a year and you and Matyo are my life now. Yes, I miss Ralia, but we have visited often enough. And Matyo is old enough now to come too. But I am not thinking of going there for good. Not unless you and Matyo are with me.”
Matyo made a snuffling noise, and then took a deep breath before starting to whimper a little. Calvin went over to the cot and picked the little baby up, bringing him back to the bed, patting his back, jiggling him a little to settle his crying.
“I think I believe you,” Calvin said quietly. “Thank you.”
Dak kissed Matyo on the forehead, and Calvin on the lips. “Daftie.”
Calvin smiled. “I think you've spent too much time with that Scottish midwife of yours.”
“Don't let Carson hear you call him that.” Dak laughed, and wrapped his arms around them.
Calvin nuzzled into his lover, still stroking his son's back.
“I love you, Dak.” Despite the responsibility and stress of being part of a family, Calvin had never truly been happier.
“I love you, too.”
Author:Santa Claus
Recipient: wiseheart
Rating:R
Pairing: Kavanagh/OMC,
Spoilers: 38 Minutes
Warnings: Mpreg
Summary: An alliance between Atlantis and the Ralian people has far-reaching consequences, especially for Calvin Kavanagh.
Author Notes: Written as a Secret Santa for wiseheart, who wanted 'Kav getting the girl (or boy, I'm not that choosy) before the nose of Sheppard, Kav & Halling friendship, Mpreg (any male character will do)'. Many thanks to missyvortexdv for gracious beta help.
~
Major John Sheppard eased the puddlejumper into a low orbit and turned to McKay. “You know about allergies. Reckon I'll have trouble with bugs after what happened last week?”
Sheppard had almost died after an alien insect had attached itself to his neck the week before. It might have been less traumatic if the puddlejumper hadn't got stuck in the Stargate as they tried to return to Atlantis. The jumper had now been repaired, but this trip was for Sheppard to make sure the craft felt alright.
“How should I know?” dismissed McKay. “I'm sure you've never had any trouble getting bitten, why should anything change?”
Sheppard was about to deliver a cutting retort when the space ahead of them rent apart and a ship appeared. “What the...?”
He swung the puddlejumper away from the intruder and the jumper cloaked instinctively. “Atlantis? This is Sheppard. We have alien contact.”
McKay stared open-mouthed as Sheppard whipped the jumper around and approached the strange small craft from the side at speed. “What are you doing? It could be dangerous!” he shrieked, clutching the control panel in front of him.
“This is Atlantis.” Peter Grodin's voice came through clear and loud. “Sorry, Major. We've just had word that this may be a friendly visitor.”
Sheppard swore and pulled out of his race towards the silver ship. “Now you tell me! Who the hell are they?” He pulled the jumper back around and came to a hover nearby, the alien craft similarly suspended in the atmosphere.
“Ralian envoys, Major. Halling has just arrived, informing us of their intention to visit. He apologised for being unable to inform us sooner. Weir wants you to escort them down to Atlantis, if you've finished the jumper assessment.”
Sheppard sighed. “Halling? How does he know they're trustworthy? And did he tell them where we were?”
“Why don't you ask them yourself, Major? I believe they are listening to this right now.”
Teyla, Ford, McKay and Sheppard all gaped at the jumper display as an alien male face appeared in front of them. He was elderly, swarthy, grey-haired, and had an air of calm authority. Other than the dark pigmented markings across the bridge of his nose, he looked perfectly human.
“My apologies, Major Sheppard. We had intended to give you more notice of our arrival, but Halling had problems contacting you. My name is Jarek Novad, of the Ralian people. We come in peace to offer assistance in light of the awoken Wraith.”
Sheppard quirked him a half smile. “Well, that's very ... kind of you, Jarek Novad. Would you like to follow us down to the city?”
The man nodded and the display disappeared.
Sheppard looked around at Ford and Teyla. “I have a bad feeling about this. Have you heard of these ... Ralians, Teyla?”
Teyla smiled. “Indeed. They are an advanced people, but most secretive. They do not spend time with other cultures. We have always desired their technology, but as a people, I do not know them at all.”
~
Elizabeth had the guests brought from the jumper bay to the conference room, where she greeted them, and they all sat down.
“You are most welcome to Atlantis, gentlemen.” She smiled her best diplomatic smile. Sheppard and McKay sat on either side of her. Sheppard looked suspicious. McKay looked bored.
The three Ralians were on the other side of the table. Jarek, tall and noble, sat between two of his people. “Thank you, Dr Weir. We are honoured to be able to offer our assistance in this time of great need.”
Sheppard sighed. “What exactly can you offer us, Jarek?”
Jarek gave him a thin smile, and indicated with one hand to the man on his right. “My second-in-command here, Dak Fenor, can show you the technology that we possess on our ship. We can track Wraith vessels and monitor their breeding. This is knowledge which we have possessed for many eons. The time is now right to share this with you. Halling persuaded us of this.”
“I want to see their stuff,” McKay said firmly, suddenly interested.
Weir nodded. “Thank you, Jarek. I shall assign a team of scientists to work with you. You are all most welcome to spend time in the city. I hope you enjoy your stay.”
~
Calvin Kavanagh strode into the lab, glancing at Halling as he grabbed his laptop. “Hey, Halling.”
The Athosian smiled. “Calvin. Always in a rush.”
“I've been assigned to oversee the new technology from the Ralians. Anything you can tell me?”
“Only that it will be technology of great power. The Ralian people are a mystery to us, but I trust them.”
Calvin paused, and sat down on the stool next to his desk, laptop under his arm. “What do you mean?”
Halling closed his eyes for a moment, as he composed his thoughts. “We do not know how they live or work. All we know is that they possess ships and equipment that are far beyond anything we have ever known. They keep themselves apart. When the Wraith awoke, I knew that the Ralians may be of some assistance, so I sent an emissary to contact them. Some of their people always attend the Tar Nat ceremony, which is how I knew where to find them. Now - when are you going to help me with the communication device that has stopped working? I cannot communicate with Atlantis, and I need your help with it.”
Calvin sighed. “Halling, you know I would, but Sheppard is expecting me. And I want to see what these Ralians have got up their sleeve. Can it wait? You'll be here in Atlantis for a few days, right? Have dinner with me later.”
Ever since Halling had first arrived in the city of the Ancestors, he had found a friend in Calvin. They shared an instant frustration with the way things had been handled when their two peoples had first been thrown together, and had formed an easy friendship, in spite of their outward differences. Halling was a spiritual man, a man fiercely protective of his people. Calvin was a scientist, constantly battling in his team to express his own opinions. They seemed to have more in common than anyone would think.
“I would very much like to meet you for dinner, Calvin. Come to my quarters when you have finished with the Ralian ship for the day. And tomorrow you can help me with my communication device.”
“Great! I'll catch you later.” Calvin hurried from the room, giving Halling a friendly pat on the shoulder as he left, leaving the Athosian leader shaking his head in amusement.
~
Calvin hurried into the jumper bay and found Sheppard and McKay standing beside the alien craft.
Sheppard raised an eyebrow. “Glad you could join us, Kavanagh. This is Dak Fenor, he's the Ralian who can explain what we're looking at here.”
Sheppard had his hands on his hips, and his tone was sarcastic, but Calvin could tell Sheppard wasn't really upset that he was late. Since the whole jumper-stuck-in-the-gate debacle, during which Calvin had helped save Sheppard's ass, the Major had been quite civil to him, despite the fact that all scientists clearly annoyed him to a certain degree. Sheppard was acting more like he wanted to impress this Fenor person. Calvin looked at Dak Fenor. The guy was tall, broad, and, there was no other word for it - beautiful.
“Sorry I'm late. Good to meet you, um, Dak.” Calvin held out his hand.
The swarthy and handsome Ralian took Calvin's hand and shook it firmly, flashing him a broad smile. “And you, Dr Kavanagh. Sheppard has told me much about you.”
Calvin glanced to Sheppard, who shrugged. “Okay, well, let's get started, shall we?”
Dak Fenor proceeded to give them a thorough tour of the craft, and showed them the instruments that could detect and monitor the Wraith. Calvin was spellbound, and McKay was lost in his own thoughts as he examined the craft, but Sheppard appeared more interested in asking Dak Fenor about his homeworld.
“So, Dak, you guys have got lakes and mountains and stuff, right? Are there beaches?” Sheppard looked hopeful.
Dak, sitting underneath the control panel with Calvin, looked up politely. “Oh yes. We have the most wonderful beaches. The sand is pure white, and the sea is as blue as orfleberries.” He turned back to Calvin. “This is the converter, you can see it is connected to all engines at this point.”
Calvin nodded excitedly. “That's incredible. Even the jumpers don't have that kind of ratio ability. I really want to see a schematic of the whole ship.”
Dak smiled. “I would be happy to show you, Calvin.”
Sheppard peered down at them. “What do you say, guys? Will we call it a day? I think we can see that you people have equipment that we definitely want to get our hands on. You can work out the details tomorrow, right?”
McKay sighed reluctantly. “Yes, yes, all right. This detector is incredible, though. I might stay and ...”
“McKay,” Sheppard said firmly. “I'm sure our guest will be happy to let you look at it again tomorrow. Right now, I need to eat. Dak, would you like to join me for dinner?”
McKay sighed again. “Yes, okay, I suppose I ought to eat too. Can we come back and look at the ship first thing tomorrow, say 0700?”
Dak unfolded himself from under the control panel, and offered his hand to Calvin, who took it gratefully and also stood. “Of course, Dr McKay. And thank you for your kind offer, Major Sheppard. I am quite hungry now.”
They packed up their gear, and Dak sealed the craft. Calvin watched Sheppard and Dak Fenor making their way out of the jumper bay, McKay trailing after, and almost felt a twinge of jealousy. Dak was a brilliant engineer and scientist, and was really incredibly good-looking. Sheppard obviously thought so too, the way he was all over the guy. Once upon a time, Calvin might have gone for Sheppard himself, but he knew they weren't really compatible. Dak, however, was another matter. The guy was very attractive, but more than that, he was interesting and brilliant. He had the feeling working with him was going to be an enjoyable experience.
He wandered down towards the stairs to meet Halling.
~
“Was I correct?” Halling picked up his bread and waited for Calvin to answer.
Calvin glanced across to where Dak was sitting at a table with Sheppard, McKay, and the other Ralian. Dak caught his eye, and smiled.
“Sorry, what?” Calvin blinked, and adjusted his glasses, hoping he wasn't blushing.
“I asked you if I was correct about the Ralians having useful technology? I hope my trip was worthwhile.”
Calvin smiled. “Oh yeah, totally worth it. Those guys, they have stuff we can only dream about. Weir did the right thing for once and listened to you.”
Halling nodded. “That is true. I am also interested to see the Ralians interacting with all of you - this is a most unusual experience. They typically remain separate from us when we have encountered them before.”
“I like Dak. He's a good guy.” Calvin tucked into his dinner eagerly. “I can't wait until we get back to work on the craft in the morning.”
“What about my communication device?” Halling frowned.
“Don't worry, Halling, I'll get Simpson on to it.”
~
Sheppard was bright and early in the jumper bay the next morning, and Calvin watched him greet Dak as the Ralian arrived just ahead of him. Oh yeah, Sheppard liked Dak a lot. Calvin wondered what Dak would make of that if he knew.
“No McKay today?” Calvin asked as he opened his laptop.
“Nope, just the three of us. He says you can, and I quote, do all the donkey work today.” Sheppard grinned at Dak, who looked puzzled.
“A donkey is an animal of burden,” Calvin muttered, and Dak smiled knowingly.
It wasn't long before Dak and Calvin were fully engrossed in discussion of schematics and scans, and Sheppard was losing interest.
“Look guys, I think I should attend to some of my duties. If you can carry on, Kavanagh? I'll come back at lunchtime and take Dak away.” He grinned broadly at Dak.
“Sure, no problem,” Calvin agreed, barely looking up from his scanner.
When Sheppard had gone, Dak breathed a sigh of relief.
“Calvin, I think Major Sheppard likes me.”
Calvin laughed. “You might be right. I'm sorry, getting hit on by aliens isn't exactly good hospitality.”
A look of worry crossed Dak's face, before he replied, “It is not your fault.”
Calvin thought there was something strange about Dak's tone, but the Ralian scientist looked down at the computer in his hands, and before long they were deep in conversation about Wraith genetics.
Stretching his shoulders, Calvin finally decided they needed a break. Dak may have seemingly boundless energy, or he had yesterday, but personally he liked to take time to mull things over. Sometimes ideas came in a flash, like blowing the jumper hatch to save Sheppard, but other times it was more productive to take a step back and review the bigger picture.
Talking of which, Dak was looking almost pale, despite his deeply tanned complexion. “Are you okay, Dak? You look tired.”
Dak swallowed hard. “I ... It is true, I feel weak. Do you have a doctor in the city?”
Calvin caught his breath. “Yes, we have Dr Beckett. Are you ...? Maybe we should go there now.”
But it was too late, as Dak collapsed to the floor of the jumper bay.
~
Sheppard ran a worried hand over his jaw. “Well, Doc? Is he okay?”
Dr Carson Beckett had come out of the isolation room, and shook his head at Sheppard and Weir. “I don't know enough about his physiology to say for sure what's wrong with him. He won't talk to me, and Jarek is being most obstructive.”
Weir pursed her lips. “Is there any danger to the city?”
Carson looked less concerned. “That is one thing that Dak assures me about. I am inclined to believe him. I just wish the lad would tell me what he knows so that I can help him.”
Sheppard sighed. “I'll talk to him. Maybe Halling can get some sense out of Jarek.” He stepped forward to go into the isolation room, but Carson held his arm gently.
“Actually, Major Sheppard, son, Dak has asked specifically to see Dr Kavanagh, so perhaps you ought to wait. He might tell the man something that'll be useful to us.”
Sheppard almost gaped. “Oh. I see. Well, I guess I'll just wait then.” He was clearly put out.
Weir's smile was amused. “Keep me informed, Carson. And if there is any suspicion that our people are at risk, I want to know at once.”
~
“You gave me a scare, Dak.” Calvin sat down on the chair beside Dak's bed, and gave him a shy smile.
The man in the bed smiled back apologetically. The dark markings across the bridge of his nose had spread up to his forehead, and the pigmentation was noticeable. “I am sorry.”
“So...” Calvin frowned at him. “Why did you ask to see me? What's wrong with you, do you know? Those markings... you look different. Is that part of it?”
Dak chuckled. “So many questions, Calvin. From the moment I met you I knew we would be friends.” His brows pinched together as he looked at the other man. “I do indeed know what is happening to me, but I cannot tell Dr Beckett,” he said quietly.
Calvin's mouth opened. “You have to! He can help. Tell me what's wrong. Please.”
Dak held up placating hands. “I mean... I cannot tell Dr Beckett until I have told you.” He ignored Calvin's puzzled look. “Jarek told me I should not have come. But I insisted. He is most displeased with me, and he is right to be. This should never have happened.” He shook his head. “I'm sorry.”
“Okay, you lost me about a minute back. What is going on? And why do you have to tell me before Dr Beckett?”
With a deep breath, Dak said reluctantly, “I am, and I think I use a phrase you will understand, I am entering my reproductive phase.”
Calvin shook his head slowly. “Reproductive ... You mean, like, having children? What is your reproductive phase, exactly?” He wasn't entirely sure he wanted to know.
“Every Ralian male must carry a child once in his lifetime. We have one reproductive phase, at my age. When the time approaches, we form a bond with someone who will have the child with us. I did not believe that your people would be able to be bond-formers. I did not know it would happen here. But it has.”
Calvin sighed. It looked like Sheppard's attentions might bear fruit after all. Literally. “Well, it's understandable. I'll let Major Sheppard know. I'm sure he'll be pleased to know you want to have his baby.”
Dak laughed. “Not Major Sheppard, Calvin. You.” He looked carefully at Calvin. “I have formed a bond with you.”
One half of Calvin's mouth quirked up as he struggled to assimilate the revelation. “Me? You've formed this bond with me?” Oddly, it wasn't as freaky as he thought it should be. Besides, Dr Beckett could probably sort it out. But then a thought struck him. He frowned, and started to shake his head. “Oh no. Wait a minute. I know how this goes. Your reproductive phase has begun, and it can't be reversed. You have to have this baby with the bond-former, with me, or you die. How am I doing so far?” He folded his arms.
Dak nodded, surprised. “How do you know about our phase, Calvin? You are right. If I do not carry the child now, our child, then I may not survive. Jarek is so angry, and I don't blame him. This is...” He closed his eyes. “This is not how I imagined it would be.”
Calvin looked up, and blinked at Dak. The Ralian looked forlorn, sitting in the bed, his forehead dark with delicate patchy markings, his mouth turned down. “Hey. Dak. It can't be that bad, can it? There must be something Dr Beckett can do. Maybe he can give you something to halt the phase.” He reached out and placed a hand over Dak's. It felt warm, and Dak twisted his hand so that he could take hold, wrapping his fingers around Calvin's. It felt right, and Calvin had to bite his lip to control the sensation.
“I don't think there is time, Calvin. Dr Beckett will never have encountered anything like this. Even to the Athosians we are alien. That is why we do not spend much time with other cultures. We fear they will not understand us. And fear can be dangerous.” Dak took a breath, and looked weakened by all the talking.
Even as Calvin replied, he was hoping his words would be true. “We won't be like that, Dak. Everyone here is open to alien cultures and practices. If Dr Beckett can help, he will. If not ... If not, then I will do whatever I can if it means you won't be hurt. If you need to do this ... thing, then we'll do it.”
Dak held Calvin's hand tightly. “Thank you, Calvin. We have only known each other for a very short time, but I trust you, and I know you would be a good father.”
Calvin bit back his gasp as it struck him just what he had agreed to. He wasn't actually going to have to be a father, was he? He really hoped not, but if Dr Beckett couldn't pull something out of the bag, he was surprised to feel that he was prepared to do this anyway.
“Dak. I just need to know. Is there ... I mean, do your people use some kind of chemical, or pheromone or something, to make the bond? I mean, what I'm feeling - is this me? Or you? Or what?”
Dak smiled. “No. I understand what you are asking, and beyond only very mild and normal chemical balances present in all of us, as I suspect you know about already in your own people, what has formed between us is a bond of higher function. Does that make sense to you? You are as learned a scientist as I, Calvin. Yes, you triggered the phase in me, but the bond - no one can explain the bond with science. I suppose I could reproduce with any male, but such bonds often fail. I think I would rather die than have a different bond-former.”
Calvin nodded with relief, despite the responsibility he had inadvertently uncovered. “Yeah, I guess. Well, thank you. I'm glad. It makes a lot of sense. And none at all, naturally.”
~
“I cannot allow it.” Weir was adamant.
Carson took a deep breath. “I don't think you have any jurisdiction here, Elizabeth. This man has begun a physiological phase, and nothing you or I can do can stop it.”
Jarek nodded, his hands neatly folded in front of him. “I'm afraid he's right, Dr Weir.”
She took a deep breath, and looked squarely at Carson. “Then what do we do?”
“We can send them back. We could deny him a bond-former from Atlantis.” Carson's words were more of a suggestion than a solution.
There was silence for a moment. Jarek and Sheppard exchanged glances.
“But he could die!” Sheppard cried.
Jarek sighed. “Dr Weir, please. No one is more distressed than I that one of your people has caused Dak to begin his phase. You have already had my sincere apologies on that point. But the young man deserves a chance to form a bond, and among our people it is not thought prudent to create life with one who is not the bond-former. Dak is prepared to suffer the consequences, even die, if you do not allow your Dr Kavanagh to participate, and I fully back Dak in this decision. Please reconsider. Talk to Dr Kavanagh. I believe your people can be permitted to make their own choices in such matters. Dak's very life may depend on it. Let Dr Kavanagh decide. If he does not wish to participate, then we shall leave, and you will hear no more from my people.”
Sheppard took a deep breath in frustration, as Elizabeth sat still for a moment.
She turned to Carson. “Are you sure you can't reverse his condition?”
Carson shook his head. “I took him for a scan this morning. He's ready, Dr Weir, and I just don't have time to do anything about it.”
“Major Sheppard, tell Dr Kavanagh I wish to speak to him in my office now. Thank you gentlemen, I shall keep you informed.”
~
Sheppard escorted Calvin from his lab. “I don't know what you did to deserve this, Kavanagh, but I'm not jealous.”
Calvin glanced at him, amused. “I think you might have been, if there wasn't imminent death and or children involved.”
Sheppard smirked. “Yeah, I guess. So. What will you do? If he has your kid, you might never see him. Or her.” Sheppard sounded almost sad.
“We ... Dak and I have talked about that. I need to speak to Elizabeth. I'm thinking I might see about spending some time with the Ralians.” He looked tentatively at Sheppard, who wasn't really looking shocked.
“Yeah, that would work. And they could come here, I guess.”
As they neared the Gate room, they fell silent, but Calvin was amazed. Sheppard should be going crazy at the thought of losing a scientist, even for a while. Okay, so it was him, and despite his lucky idea the other week, he was hardly one of Sheppard's top friends, or any friend. Maybe Sheppard just wanted what was best for Dak. Or maybe he wanted to come visit on Ralia and sit on the beach.
He shared a nod of understanding with Sheppard and went into Weir's office alone, closing the door. She was pacing at the far end of the room, her arms wrapped around her, her face pensive.
“Dr Weir.” Calvin figured he'd rather say his bit first. “I just want you to know that I am prepared to do this for Dak. I may even leave Atlantis if I have to. I can't face the fact that he might die if I don't. I want to have this child.”
Weir stopped pacing and leaned on her desk. “That's very noble of you, Dr Kavanagh. But it may surprise you to know that it is your interests that I have at heart. This man is essentially an alien from another galaxy. One you have known for precisely three days, I may add.”
Calvin blinked. She had his interests at heart? “I know that.”
“Forgive me, Calvin, but I suspect you are counting your chickens before they are hatched - and I sincerely hope that metaphor won't come back to haunt me - but do you actually know how the sperm transfer will take place? I'm not prepared to let you put your own life at risk with some one-night alien stand.”
Calvin was genuinely surprised at her concern. And he realised that he didn't have the first clue about how he was supposed to get Dak pregnant. “I ...”
She shook her head, a sad smile on her face. “Really, Calvin. I didn't think I'd ever have to say this to you, but perhaps you really should think with your dick for once.” She laughed, not unkindly. “Look. I won't let you risk anything dangerous. And I can't let you leave Atlantis for the time being. We need you here, incredible as that may seem. Find out what exactly is involved, discuss it with Carson - he knows my views - and if you decide to go ahead with this, Dak Fenor can stay on Atlantis as long as he wants. If things change, if we defeat the Wraith, then I will reconsider letting you leave if you want, but my primary concern is your well-being, I'm sure you understand.”
Calvin nodded. “Thank you. I don't know what else to say.”
“Just keep me appraised. Except ... keep the details to yourselves, okay? I'll let you and Carson handle that one.” She smiled, and walked him to the door.
Calvin was blushing furiously. “Thanks,” he mumbled, and hurried out of the Gate room.
~
“Well?” Dak still looked pale, but his voice was strong. He was sitting, fully-dressed, on top of the Infirmary bed. Carson wanted him there, but he wasn't exactly ill. Not yet.
Calvin perched nervously next to him, his feet just touching the floor. “Elizabeth said some sensible stuff,” he said.
“And ...?” Dak prompted.
“She won't let me leave. Not now, not while the Wraith are a problem. She said you could stay, if you wanted. I'd appreciate being able to remain part of your life, and the child's.”
Dak nodded. “I can understand. I am happy to stay here as long as I am welcome. It is important to me that you know the child. What else did she say?”
Calvin took a deep breath, and leaned closer. Being so close to Dak was heady, powerful, arousing. He said quietly. “Um... Dak? How would we ...? How do I ...?
Dak chuckled, and pressed a kiss to Calvin's cheek. He whispered in his ear, and then pulled back, his sparkling eyes waiting for Calvin's reaction.
Calvin was wide-eyed, and touched his cheek where Dak had kissed him. “Oh,” he said. “What about the acid? Doesn't that ...?”
Dak laughed. “The phase suppresses acid production for a while, which is part of the reason it is dangerous not to conceive. It's probably the only time I would ever have been able to eat saxxenchillies every day for a month, if you had any here. There is a gland here,” he pointed, “where the egg is fertilised, then it travels to the womb.”
Calvin took a deep breath. “Well, I think that would satisfy Dr Beckett. But there's no way in hell we are doing that here. You'll have to come to my quarters.”
~
Calvin looked with concern at Dak. The walk from the Infirmary must have tired the Ralian, but he wasn't showing any sign of it. The door slid shut behind them as he switched on the lights. “Are you okay?”
“I'm fine,” said Dak firmly, looking around. “These are nice quarters.”
Calvin shrugged. “Chuck - the sergeant who assigned all the living space - he's one of the few guys around here who actually likes me. I'm kind of abrupt, you may have noticed.”
“And pushy,” Dak said fondly, and placed a large hand to Calvin's chest, pushing him back against the wall.
“You know me surprisingly well after only a few days,” he squeaked.
Dak met him inch for inch in height, and was more than a match in strength. He stood so close that Calvin could see every lash of his brown eyes.
“I want to get to know you better,” Dak said, his voice low and harsh in Calvin's ear, making him shiver.
“I thought you just wanted my sperm,” Calvin said nervously, feeling himself grow impossibly hard. He wanted Dak to push him right into the wall, to feel the other man hard next to him.
“Only if you are sure,” Dak murmured. “Although I realise that being faced with the possibility that saying no now means no blow job is not much of a choice.” He smiled, and leaned forward tentatively, kissing Calvin full on the mouth.
Calvin wrapped his arms around the other man, pulling him closer, into a deeper kiss, into contact that made his brain spark. “You're right. I can't be impartial right now. Let's do it.”
Dak chuckled, and slid his hands through Calvin's hair, pulling out the pony tail. “I can't wait,” he breathed, sharing another searing kiss. He carefully removed Calvin's glasses and set them down gently.
Calvin tugged at Dak's black top, wanting to be skin to skin. It was hard for them to undress while kissing, touching, licking, but in a few moments there were garments flung haphazardly across the room, and Dak and Calvin were still pressed together against the wall, hands everywhere.
Dak pulled away suddenly, panting, and Calvin had a chance to take a long look at his toned body, seeing now that there were other patches of dappled pigmentation in places that made him look even more incredible.
“This is it,” Dak said gently.
Calvin smiled. “This is where I close my eyes and think of Earth?”
“I'd prefer it if you'd think of me,” he replied softly, kissed Calvin chastely and then slipped down onto his knees.
~
The residents of Atlantis took to having a pregnant male alien in their midst surprisingly well. It helped that Dak was someone that got on with everyone. Calvin couldn't help but feel a little proud of his new and strange association. For one thing, it was impossible to hide, and he had never been one to care about what anyone else thought about him. Knowing that people were actually enjoying seeing an ever-growing Dak and a happy Calvin was kind of pleasing.
Some of the women had promised to knit things, and Halling and Stackhouse had some plan up their sleeve that Calvin suspected might produce a cot. Simpson said she couldn't knit to save her life, but would babysit anytime they wanted. Everyone being extra nice to him was freaking Calvin out even more than the thought of being a father.
Calvin put the tray of food down in front of Dak. “There was only red jello, is that okay?”
Dak looked up at him and smiled. “Perfectly. I am simply happy that we can have lunch together for once.”
Dak, despite his ever-increasing girth, had become an integral part of the engineering and science team, and both he and Calvin were often stretched to the limit working to solve the latest crisis in the Pegasus galaxy.
“I know. We'd better make the most of it.” Calvin grinned at Dak, who squeezed his hand.
“Calvin. Dak.” Halling greeted them and sat down beside Calvin. “Mind if I join you?”
Dak smiled. “Of course not, Halling. What brings you to Atlantis? I did not expect to see you today.”
Halling's face grew serious. “Dr Weir needed to ask me about the Daganians. I have told her all I know, but it is very little, and we all know how that turned out last time.” He threw Calvin an apologetic glance.
“Hey, don't.” Calvin pointed his fork at Halling. “None of this is your fault.” He turned to Dak who had opened his mouth. “Or yours, so don't say anything. I'm happy the way things have turned out, so leave it, okay? The baby will be here in a few weeks, and I can't wait. I know life is crazy here, but ...” Calvin paused. He felt he was about to say something really way too sappy and clichéd , so he decided it was better just to shut up. “It's going to be great, so no regrets, yeah?”
Halling and Dak exchanged amused glances.
Halling nodded. “No regrets, Calvin.”
~
Calvin paused in the doorway. He smiled, and quietly went over to the bed where Dak was sprawled over it, face down, sleeping. Resisting the urge to immediately wake the man, he let his eyes wander over the tanned skin, little speckles of pigment running down the length of Dak's spine. The man was still a little flabby around the middle after the birth of Matyo, their son, but he was working on it.
Calvin glanced across to the beautiful wooden cot that Halling and Stackhouse had made, seeing the peaceful sleeping baby. It made a change, that was for sure. Perhaps it had been all the attention and fuss from everyone in the city, not least of all McKay, bizarrely, but Matyo had not been a very quiet baby. He did cry a lot, and the relationship between Dak and him had been tested very thoroughly. It seemed to be getting a little better now, and Calvin was beginning to think maybe he might enjoy fatherhood after all. Especially if Dak would always be there to make it this good.
He leaned down, and pressed a light kiss to Dak's shoulder. He was about to pull the sheet up over his body, when Dak moaned and turned over.
“Hey, Calvin. Did the simulation work all right?” He rubbed at sleepy eyes.
Calvin smiled, nodding. “Yeah. McKay's happy. Sorry if I woke you.”
Dak shook his head, and leaned up on his elbows. “Don't worry. Matyo was fine tonight. I did some reading, and then, well, I must have fallen asleep.”
They shared a long kiss, and then Calvin crawled onto the bed beside Dak. “Does Radek want you back to work tomorrow, or are you going to hold off another week?” Calvin knew his voice gave away his unease. He didn't really want to think about it, but perhaps it was best they discussed this now.
“Calvin?” With a hand, Dak turned Calvin's face towards him. “What's wrong?”
He sighed. Keeping anything from Dak was impossible. The man had always known him too well. “I don't think the Wraith will ever be defeated. I don't want to leave Atlantis, but you must want to go back to Ralia. When will you leave?”
Dak smiled, puzzled. “Calvin. How can you even think that? I have been here almost a year and you and Matyo are my life now. Yes, I miss Ralia, but we have visited often enough. And Matyo is old enough now to come too. But I am not thinking of going there for good. Not unless you and Matyo are with me.”
Matyo made a snuffling noise, and then took a deep breath before starting to whimper a little. Calvin went over to the cot and picked the little baby up, bringing him back to the bed, patting his back, jiggling him a little to settle his crying.
“I think I believe you,” Calvin said quietly. “Thank you.”
Dak kissed Matyo on the forehead, and Calvin on the lips. “Daftie.”
Calvin smiled. “I think you've spent too much time with that Scottish midwife of yours.”
“Don't let Carson hear you call him that.” Dak laughed, and wrapped his arms around them.
Calvin nuzzled into his lover, still stroking his son's back.
“I love you, Dak.” Despite the responsibility and stress of being part of a family, Calvin had never truly been happier.
“I love you, too.”