Fox and Walter's Excellent Adventure
by Xraycat
Category: Discipline
Rating: R language and violence
Disclaimer: They belong to Chris,
I'm not making anything.
Notes: Back to the Videotape series.
Synopsis: Fox and Walter see (and are
seen) Boston, during a weekend adventure.
Assistant director of the F.B.I., Walter Skinner wondered just what had happened. Fox Mulder was one of the brightest and most talented agents he'd ever met. For some reason, Fox Mulder was also the most undisciplined and irresponsible person Walter had encountered in his lifetime. Some days Walter thought he could cheerfully strangle Mulder. Other days, Walter's mind boggled at the insight and intelligence Mulder displayed. Walter was unable to reconcile the two conflicting aspects of Mulder's make-up. Maybe Mulder was suffering from a multiple personalities disorder.
It had to happen. The worst case scenario that Walter feared was now a reality. He and Mulder would be traveling together. To Boston, Mass., to be exact. The Bureau, in its infinite wisdom, had felt the Mulder would be a perfect presenter for their upcoming conference. Walter was to attend and accept praise on the Bureaus behalf. The evening before they were slated to leave, Walter had *invited* Fox to his apartment. He wished to go over some ground rules, before the conference.
Walter was still in a state of disbelief, "Fox, I haven't the foggiest notion why you've been selected to make a presentation. However, I do wish to stress the importance of your continued good behavior. I'm tempted to spank you right now, so you'll think twice before trying any shenanigans at the conference. Maybe a plane ride sitting on a sore behind might help you remember."
Fox was stunned. "Walter! I haven't done anything to be spanked for! What makes
you think I'm going to?" Fox looked insulted. "I won't embarrass you or the Bureau. At least, I'm not planning to." He smiled and ducked his head. "You're worried, huh? Well don't be. I'm in complete control of the situation."
"That's *exactly* what I'm worried about" Walter was exasperated. "I want to see the notes for your presentation, right now. Anything I deem inappropriate, you omit. Got it?" He stood, hand out, waiting.
"All right already, geeze!" Fox reached into his jacket pocket and removed a stack of index cards. "No counting off for spelling or grammatical content. They're just my notes, not an assignment." Fox rolled his eyes and handed the cards to Walter.
Walter scanned the handwritten notes. Everything appeared to be in order. No
mention of extraterrestrial theories, no government cover ups, nothing about monster like creatures dwelling in human hosts. Walter reluctantly handed the cards back to Fox. "This seems okay. Stick to this material Saturday. Go home, get some sleep. We need to be at the airport tomorrow by ten. Presenters are to be checked in an entire day before the conference. Then we will have some time for ourselves. We can see what kind of night-life Boston has to offer tomorrow evening, if you like."
Fox smiled, "I'll see you tomorrow. Do you want to meet at the airport?" He re-pocketed the note cards.
Walter thought for a moment, "I'm taking a cab. You're on the way, why don't I have the driver pick you up? Nine o'clock. Will that give you time enough to be ready?"
Fox nodded. "Nine it is. I'm gone."
Walter was not reassured, he knew better than to let his guard down. Fox Mulder had a way of sneaking up on you. He only hoped he'd be able to stop him before Fox could discredit the Bureau as well as himself.
The airport was a nightmare. Friday mornings are always a bad time to travel, but this was ridiculous! Fox was quiet, but nervous. He stayed with the bags while Walter went for a much needed cup of coffee. Fox declined when Walter offered to bring him something. "I'm wired all ready, I don't need any caffeine. I'll get something on the plane."
Boarding took forrever. The storage berth above their seats was full. They were required to stow their carry-on bags beneath their seats. This caused a problem because there wasn't much leg room to begin with. Walter was grumbling to himself, "I don't understand why plane seats are designed for people five foot eight and shorter. I'm not that tall, by today's standards, but I feel like my knees are right under my chin!"
Fox laughed easily, "Go with it, Walter. Don't be angry. See if you can adjust your footrest and slide your feet under the seat in front of you. It's not the perfect solution, but it beats resting your chin on your knees!"
Walter was a little embarrassed he'd not thought of this, himself. He tried it, and it worked. "Thanks, Fox. I guess I just woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning." He opened his paper, determined to retain his good mood.
The taxi ride to the hotel was a harrowing experience. Walter tried to keep his eyes closed through most of it. Fox enjoyed himself. He'd snicker when their driver would blast his horn, then shoot through traffic. Fox waved and smiled at the indignant motorists who cursed and offered hand gestures. Walter chose to remain silent, looking pale and shaken. This appeared to encourage the thrill seeking driver and spur him to drive more recklessly than before. Walter was surprised and grateful when they reached the hotel alive and uninjured. Fox gave the man a generous tip and told him when they would check out. Walter was sure that this maniac would be the one to drive them back to the airport for the flight home. Something else to look forward to.
The registration went smoothly, and they were in their rooms in no time. Walter suggested a shower, and then they could meet in the lobby to plan the evening's agenda.
Back in the lobby, the concierge provided them with a complimentary book of local attractions. All were within walking distance. Fox suggested that they try the Fox and Hare, an establishment similar to an English public house. He'd frequented several pubs during his college years. Walter was agreeable.
They arrived, just as an Irish band began their first set. They sat in a large booth that offered an excellent view of the entire room. Walter found, much to his surprise, he was really enjoying himself. Fox was having the time of his life.
Fox entered a darts tourney, and was holding his own. Several women approached the table, mostly to ask about Fox, but Walter received a couple of hard to resist offers, himself. Fox Mulder might be a 'shit magnet' where bureau work was concerned, but he certainly was handy to have around in the social department!
They closed the place, and walked back to the hotel in easy silence. Fox carried his first place trophy proudly. He couldn't stop smiling. He'd even stood on the stage while the band sang a victory song!
Walter was at peace with the world. Now, if only tomorrow goes as well! Walter shook off the negative thoughts. He didn't want to spoil his mood. They said goodnight at his door, and agreed to meet for breakfast.
The morning went smoothly, Fox wrote disparaging remarks about the other presenters in the margins of his program. Walter had to stop reading them. He'd almost laughed aloud a couple of times. He couldn't remember seeing Fox this relaxed.
Lunch break.
The banquet food was the only complaint so far. Chicken of beef, cold vegetables. The normal fare, Fox suggested they go grab a burger from room service. They could eat in one of their rooms and not get caught. Walter thought this was a wonderful idea, and they were back in plenty of time for the start of the afternoon session.
Fox was introduced to a smattering of polite applause, "Ladies and gentlemen, I have decided to change my topic this afternoon."
Walter sat up. 'What's he doing now?'
Fox continued, "I've recently discovered some disturbing information. I feel it's imperative to share it with you today........ "
Walter was nearly blinded by fury. Fox had humiliated him in front of this group of respected professionals. What could have prompted him? Why Fox would even joke about the Surgeon General was beyond Walter's comprehension. To suggest that the esteemed physician might be conducting seecret genetic experiments wit alien DNA, with government backing! Walter felt as if he was losing his mind. Fox had gone on to offer proof, if any of the learned guests were willing to meet with a clandestine group of individuals known as those Against Subversive Science, or 'A.S.S.' None of the attendees were amused, Walter in particular.
Rather than kill him in front of witnesses, Walter had unobtrusively cornered Fox. He ordered Fox to return to his hotel room and wait there. They would discuss the matter, at some length, later this evening. Walter needed some time to calm down.
Fox readily agreed and left the assembly room.
Walter didn't think about it at first, but Fox had offered no arguments, or attempted to defend himself. 'What''s that all about?' Walter was starting to worry.
Walter made as many apologies as he could. He tried to explain that Special Agent Mulder's sense of humor was a little off center. No harm was meant. He had no idea whether it would work or not. He could only wait and see.
Mulder left the Fox and Hare on foot. This was a wise decision for several reasons. The most important being Fox Mulder was inebriated. He had no business driving. He had no car, good reason number two. Mulder had no idea where he was going, anyway. He walked down the street very deliberately. He chose the opposite direction from the hotel. He didn't sway or swagger, but it took all his concentration.
Fox Mulder pondered the day's events: He couldn't believe that none of the conference attendees found his presentation funny. He was sure that everyone would welcome a little comic relief from all the dry, boring lectures. What was Walter going to do to him? Things had gone from bad to worse. He'd not only screwed up the presentation. But now he'd disobeyed a direct order. Drinking hadn't allowed Fox to forget these troubles. He knew he was in for it, but had run away, not ready to face the music just yet.
Reaching an intersection, Mulder left his thoughts and studied his surroundings. He saw a red light and a flashing 'don't walk' sign. Rather than wait, he simply turned left and continued along the sidewalk. He eventually came to a park. He'd been walking for several minutes now. He stopped. The park was grassy, green and had a most wonderful looking park bench! Mulder thought he should sit down. Now. He forced himself to examine the beautiful scene around him, not wanting to return to his troubled thoughts too quickly. He watched a group of children playing on the equipment. One little boy, he noticed, had a radio controlled helicopter. Mulder was fascinated. He got up without too much difficulty, and approached slowly. "Hey! I know you're not supposed to talk to strangers. I don't want to hurt you or anything like that, I just wondered if I could have a turn playing with your helicopter?"
The boy looked at him suspiciously. "I don't know. It cost a lot of money. What happens if you break it?" He eyed Mulder waiting for his response. He was a cute kid. Brown hair, blue eyes, and a scattering of freckles across his nose. He looked to be eight or nine.
Mulder grinned, "I won't break it. Besides, if I do, I'll pay for another one. How's that?" He pulled his wallet out of his jeans, almost falling in the process. "See! I've got money. Let me play, please? Just a short turn?" It took a lot of work to get the wallet back in his hip pocket.
This made the boy laugh. He looked the tall man over. In his tee shirt and blue jeans Mulder resembled a boy himself. His hair had fallen across his forehead, which heightened the effect. The boy found himself liking this strange guy. He was willing to trust him, once. The kid reluctantly handed to radio controller to Mulder, "Don't break it! My Dad will be really mad. Okay?"
Mulder stared at him somberly, crossing his heart. "I promise, I won't break it. What's your name kid?"
The boy grinned, "Theodore the Third, but my folks call me Trey."
Mulder laughed, "I thought my name was bad. I'm Fox."
It was Trey's turn to laugh, "Your name's not Fox! What is it really?"
"Honest! It's Fox Mulder. I even made my folks call me Mulder." Fox was getting brave with the controls. "Trey! Watch this!" He manipulated the controller and the helicopter swooped near a tree limb, scaring a nested bird who immediately took flight, scolding them as it flew away.
"WAY COOL! Fox, do another trick!" Trey was enchanted.
Upon his arrival, Walter had found an empty room. No Fox, no note. Fox's suit and dress shoes were in a pile at the foot of the bed. Walter had an idea that
Fox had returned to the pub. He had enjoyed himself so much last night. It was
Walter's only lead. Walter changed quickly into casual clothes and comfortable shoes. Fox was on foot, so Walter would be too.
When Walter entered the Fox and Hare, the publican greeted him warmly. "Walter!
You just missed Fox. That boy-o's like quick silver. Last night he was king of the world, and today he was drinking like he was trying to drown his sorrows!"
Walter grimaced. "Fox has got some sorrows, all right. How long ago did he leave? Did you happen to notice which direction he went?"
The barman rubbed his chin, "Seems to me he turned left. He's been gone about half an hour, I'd say." The man looked closely at Walter. "Is Fox in some kind of trouble? Is there anything I can do to help?"
Walter shook his head. "I think I can take care of him, thanks. You've been a lot of help." He shook hands with the bar owner and exited the building. He turned left, hoping to find some other sign of the missing Fox Mulder.
Mulder scanned the park, and smiled wickedly. He was already in shit up to his waist, might as well go for broke. "Okay, Trey. Keep your eyes on that old man reading his newspaper." More dexterous movements on the controlled, and the helicopter buzzed the old man's head. The paper exploded into the air, as the old man uttered a startled scream and ducked under the park bench.
Fox and Trey laughed so loudly they drew the old man's attention. They decided to move to another part of the park. Fox knew that the alcohol he had consumed was not really responsible for his actions. He was intentionally getting himself in trouble. Deep down, he knew he deserved what ever punishment Walter was going to give him. This made him throw caution to the wind. Walter could only kill him once!
Trey was completely under Mulder's spell. He knew that what they were doing could get them in trouble, but he just couldn't stop. "Fox, you're really cool. Do you have any kids?"
Mulder glanced at Trey, "Nope. I'd have to grow up myself, then, I wouldn't get to have all this fun, because I couldn't teach my own kid these kinds of things. Now could I?" They shared another laugh.
"Oh, look. See that guy digging through the garbage? Watch." The helicopter buzzed the unsuspecting subject, and when he jumped back in surprise, the helicopter turned and came straight for him. The man shrieked and started running, the helicopter in hot pursuit. The terrified man hid behind a tree, and then crawled deep in the bushes.
Fox and Trey beat a hasty retreat, laughing all the way. Trey suggested, "Why don't we take the 'copter back over by the playground? Lots of people we can bother over there," Trey's eyes gleamed.
Fox couldn't resist, "Okay, but just for a little while. No kids though, I only bother other adults. Agreed?" His eyes twinkled with the thought of it.
When Walter reached the intersection he overheard an animated conversation between two pedestrians.
"Yeah, in the park. I don't know who the idiot is. He's tall and has dark hair. Gotta kid with him. They're chasing people with a remote control toy."
The other man looked shocked. "You're kidding! Has anyone phoned the police? That's pretty dangerous. Someone's gonna get hurt!"
Walter interrupted them, "Which way to this park? I think I can take care of this situation without involving the police." He flashed his badge. "I need to speak with the man you just described. Can you give me directions, please?"
The first man pointed the way. "I hope you can stop them before they hurt someone."
"Agreed!" Trey grabbed Mulder's hand and ran to the crowded playground. He scanned the 'fringes, searching for the most likely victims.
"There! See her, Fox? The fat lady with the little dog? Buzz her." Rubbing his hands together, Trey giggled, "This is gonna be great!"
"You're the boss!" Fox brought the aircraft in so low, it just missed being tangled in the dog's leash. The small dog went into a frenzy, jumping and snarling. It pulled the leash from the startled woman's hand and chased the helicopter, barking and snapping. The fat woman called frantically for her mutt to return, then ran clumsily after, squatting occasionally, to try and catch hold of the leash.
Trey was rolling on the ground, unable to catch his breath.
Fox knew in his heart that he should stop now. Trey was just a kid and following Fox's lead. He didn't want Trey to be punished for his actions. The alcohol fogged part of his brain countered, 'But isn't this the most fun you've had in forever, Fox? Just one more, you can stop after one more.' Fox gave in to temptation.
As Walter neared the park, he noticed a very large woman chasing a small dog.
Running interference, he snatched the dog's leash and curbed the panicked animal.
The woman was breathless from exertion, "Thank... you... so... much!" She gasped for air, and patted sweat from her face with a lace hankie.
Walter handed the now calm pup back to the woman. After she'd had the opportunity to compose herself, Walter asked, "What's got you're dog so upset, anyway, ma'am?"
The woman's face grew dark. "This terrible young man, back by the playground! He's flying a toy helicopter with some kind of hand-held control. He's upset my dog terribly. Other people have been chased by it, too. There's a child with him. They run away laughing, the young man carrying the control, and the boy looking for someone else to terrorize! I think they might be on the other side of the park, now. Near the fountain." She left in a huff, comforting the poor animal held tightly in her arms.
Fox and Trey were hiding in a stand of trees across from the fountain. They were waiting for someone, anyone to approach. The plan was to frighten the intended victim so badly, he would fall into the fountain. Trey was wiggling, and craning his neck, watching for any unsuspecting strollers. The helicopter was grounded for the moment. Sitting as their feet, waiting silently for it's next mission.
Walter was following the path to the fountain, when he heard a tremendous SPLASH! Laughter filtered from the trees to his left. Walter left the path and entered the wooded area. Ahead and to his right he saw Fox Mulder and a small boy. They were laughing hysterically, while Fox deftly manipulated a two-handed radio remote controller. Walter's jungle training kicked in, and he soundlessly stalked his target. His plan was to take him from behind.
The poor cyclist had no idea what hit him. One minute he was coasting along, then out of the blue, something flew straight at him. He ended up in the fountain! He splashed and thrashed about, trying to regain his footing. He could hear someone laughing, "Shut up! Come make yourselves useful. Help me out of this fountain, for the love of God. I hope my bike's not trashed."
When Fox realized that they'd been located he whispered, "Trey, we'd better get while the gettin's good, pal. Come one." As he turned, Fox caught a glimpse of someone moving through the trees to his left. Some one was after them! "RUN Trey! Go now!" He forced the controller into the boys hands and shoved him ahead. "I'll get the 'copter, you go, now!" Fox hated leaving the boy on his own, but the person is the trees could only chase one of them at a time. He only hoped that whoever it was would come after him.
Trey didn't need to be told a second time, he ran for all he was worth.
Fox cleared the trees and scooped up the helicopter. Sprinting back towards the tree line Fox heard, "Going somewhere, Agent Mulder?"
Fox raised his head and saw Walter Skinner blocking his escape route. 'Oh. Shit! Where'd *he* come from?" Fox did a sloppy one eighty and darted toward the fountain.
Walter caught him before he was close enough to get splashed by the irate cyclist still mucking about in the water.
Trey had stopped to catch his breath, when he noticed Fox wasn't following. He began to worry. Should he go back? He couldn't go home without his helicopter! His dad would hit the roof! Against his better judgment, Trey slowly started back through the trees.
People gathered at the playground heard the commotion and started drifting down the fountain path.
The discombobulated and thoroughly drenched bike owner finally lumbered out of the fountain. He examined his bicycle, mounted, and rode away, shaking his fist at the group of people wandering in his direction. "Thanks for nothing!"
Walter held Fox by the collar of his shirt and the waistband of his jeans. He essentially gave Fox the 'bum's rush' forcing him to the half wall surrounding the fountain.
When the approaching crowd say the 'helicopter terrorist' had been captured they began to cheer and applaud. "Good work, fella," one man shouted.
Trey watched from the trees. He wasn't about to risk getting caught. He was too little to help Fox and that bald guy looked mean. Meaner than Trey's dad, and a whole lot stronger! Trey wondered if the bald guy was Fox's dad. He hoped not, because if he was, Fox was really in for it! He decided to wait here in safety until it was all over. Maybe he could sneak over and get the helicopter when everybody left.
When they reached the stone wall, Walter said quietly, "Fox, put the helicopter down." He removed his hand from Fox's waistband and unbuckled his own belt. "Did you hear me? I said put down the toy."
Fox knew any moment he was going to wake up. This was just a horrible nightmare. Walter wasn't really preparing to belt him. Not in a park, in front of a crowd of people. Fox placed the helicopter on the ledge created by the top of the half wall. He turned and smiled, "This is just a dream, right? A nightmare?"
"Yes, Fox. A really bad dream. Bend over the wall, please." Walter replied with a straight face.
Fox's smile slipped slowly from his face, "Can't this wait! Maybe a little privacy is in order?"
"Bend over the wall. You are incredibly lucky, Fox. The crowd has saved you a bare ass whipping." Walter's eyes were as hard a flints.
When the crowd of people understood what Walter meant to do, a fresh round of applause and cheering broke out. "Let him have it!.... Now, he'll get what's coming to him!" Each shouting louder than the last.
Fox lowered himself into position, hoping that his clothing would offer some protection. He didn't want to cry or beg in front of these people. 'I hope Trey made it home! Fox worried about the boy. He was glad that Trey wasn't here with him. Walter was so angry, Fox wasn't sure what he'd do to the little boy. Fox had this coming, but Trey had just played along. These thoughts only served to make Fox feel worse. He settled his weight on his abdomen, and supported his upper body with his elbows. He would stay in position, no matter what happened. He would hold his head up. Besides, he didn't want his face in the water. *Unless* he started crying.
Walter began swinging for all he was worth. He concentrated mostly on Fox's thighs. There was only a single layer of denim covering them. Fox's lower back and jean clad bottom were not slighted. They received ample attention.
Fox grunted and groaned, but he forced himself to stay in position. The crowd was really making it hard for him to concentrate. They were making so much noise.
The crowd was indeed enjoying themselves. Someone started a count, and the crowd was soon marking the numbers in a single voice. Following the twenty-fifth swat, someone yelled, "OOH, that's gotta hurt!"
Walter finally stopped and re-belted his jeans. Pulling Fox up by the shirt collar, he pointed him in direction of the crowd. Forcing his head downward,
Walter assisted Fox in an impromptu bow.
The crowd went wild! The applause was deafening!
They walked towards the group of people, and the crowd parted for them to pass. Jests and abuse were heaped upon Mulder's bowed head. One brave person gave Fox a hard swat on his tender butt, as Walter herded him along the path.
The crowd followed Walter and Fox for some distance.
When the fountain area was deserted, Trey dashed out, retrieved his helicopter, and ran back to the safety of the trees. He felt terrible for Fox. His dad had spanked him in the grocery store once, so Trey knew just how bad Fox must feel.
Running home, Trey didn't think he'd mention the incident to anyone.
Walking back to the hotel, Fox mumbled, "Thanks for letting me keep my clothes on. I appreciate it." He continued walking, never taking his eyes off his feet.
Walter responded with, "I didn't want either of us to be arrested. That's all." There was a smile in Walter's tone. "We'll save taking your pants down until we get back to my room."
Fox's head whipped up, "What? You're going to spank me again? Why two?"
Walter's tone was patient. "The little matter of your presentation at he conference. Remember, Fox? You didn't expect to get by with that one, did you? Would you like to explain that to me? What in the Hell were you thinking?"
Fox didn't have the strength, or the heart to respond, he just shook his head sadly, and walked.
When they reached Walter's room, Walter closed and locked the door behind them.
"Turn on the television, I think one public spanking is all you deserve today. Unless... I could call the conference guests and we could meet back in the assembly room? What do you think?" Walter was enjoying himself. The crowd had really gotten him pumped up. He felt great.
Fox turned on the television and waited.
Walter relented, "Let's go into the bathroom. You can cry all you want in there. We'll turn on the water to drown you out."
Fox drew a quivering breath, but did as he was instructed. He didn't want to risk the assembly room. Walter just might do it.
In the bathroom, Walter nodded at Fox's jeans, and turned to his shaving kit.
Fox lowered his jeans to his ankles, and his shorts to knee level, "Where do you want me?" He asked in a defeated tone.
"Bending over the commode will be just fine, " Walter answered.
In the mirror, Fox could see Walter removing the silver hairbrush from his shaving kit. Tears started slowly down his face as he knelt. His butt still hurt from the first beating he'd received. Now here he was getting ready for another one! He bent across the toilet seat and braced his hands on the floor. "Please run the shower. I know I'm going to cry this time," Fox pleaded.
Walter reached into the shower stall, cranked the handle and water sprayed full blast. "There. The television and the shower should take care of any noise you might make. Are you ready, Fox?" Walter checked Fox's bottom and legs from his previous belting. Not too many marks. The backs of his thighs were still reddened, but no welts. Walter planned to remedy that situation right now. Walter went to work with the hairbrush, striking right cheek, left cheek, and then middle. He continued this pattern from the top of Mulder's upturned bottom down to mid thigh. Revisiting each spot until the entire area was a uniform shade of crimson. Mulder would not find a comfortable sitting position for several days, once Walter was finished.
Fox sobbed and wiggled but didn't beg for mercy. He knew better. Walter would spank him harder and longer if he begged. Fox was incapable of coherent speech at this point, anyway. He'd just have to wait it out, somehow.
When Walter finished, he helped Fox to a standing position. Fox couldn't resist a backwards glance in the mirror. His butt was glowing! He'd never seen human flesh that shade of red before. Fresh tears began to fall.
Walter walked him to the bedroom. He knelt in front of the weeping man, and removed Fox's shoes. He then helped Fox pull up his shorts, and step out of his jeans. Pulling the bed covers back, he indicated that Fox should lie down.
Fox did so. On his stomach.
Walter covered him with only the sheet. Walter turned off the television, and overhead lights. He went into the bathroom and turned off the shower and returned to the bedside. "Fox, you need to sleep. I'll find something to do for a couple of hours, while you're resting."
Fox, finally in control of his tears responded, "You don't have to leave. I don't want to be left alone right now. Stay here, at least until I'm asleep, okay? We don't have to talk if you don't want to."
Walter sat down on the other side of the bed, without comment. He kicked off his shoes and swung his legs onto the bed. He opened the newspaper and began to read. Walter eventually needed to shift to a more comfortable position. That's when he noticed that Fox's head was resting against his leg. Walter sighed, and ruffled the younger man's hair.
Fox sobbed once in his sleep, and snuggled in closer.
End