Consciousness called to him.

John pushed himself up through the layers of sleep and slowly opened his eyes. Dim light from a firepot cast an orange glow on his tent, but beyond, it was dark. He inhaled deeply and slowly sat up. The pain in his head was gone, and his stomach had settled. He felt enormously better than the last time he'd woke….

He looked over his shoulder, smiling slightly at the sight of Charin, patiently braiding by the light of a nearby fire pot. He inhaled, his stomach growling at the rich scent of food that met him. "Charin?" He ventured quietly.

She laid down her braids and smiled at him. "John. Do you feel better?"

He smiled. "A lot." He quirked an eyebrow. "Did you really have to drug me though? A simple 'go to sleep, John' would've worked." He wilted slightly under the distinct motherly look Charin gave him. "Okay, maybe not."

She smiled and nodded. She stood, wincing as she straightened.

His smile faded. "You okay?"

Charin's wince disappeared and was replaced by a tolerant smile. "I am old, John. My body does not work as it did when I was your age."

John chuckled. He slowly stood, stretching against his sore muscles. He flexed his fingers, his gaze fixed on the bandages. His hands felt stiff and sore, but not seriously injured. He looked up, watching as Charin removed the lid from a pot hanging low over one of the firepots. She slowly ladled what looked like a thick stew into a bowl and brought it to the table.

"You must be hungry," she smiled. "Sit, and eat."

His stomach rumbled again. He smiled and sat down at the table, opposite her. She handed him a spoon and set a cup of water next to him.

He gratefully took a bite of stew. He swallowed and smiled at her. "This is really good."

She nodded in acknowledgement. "I have had a lot of practice." She picked up her braids and started weaving the strands again, while John made quick work of the stew.

He took a sip of water and smiled at her. "Charin, you don't have to stay here. I can take care of myself."

She paused in her braiding, and looked up at him. She smiled slightly. "I wish to help you, John. Would you deny me that?"

He sighed and smiled warmly at her. "No. I guess I wouldn't." He stared down at the knotted bandages crossing his knuckles. "Charin? Can you help me get these off?"

She laid aside her braiding and extended her hands.

He scooted across the bench some and extended his left hand to her. He smiled as she gently took his hand into her warm grasp and set to work on the knots.

"I thought you did not need my help anymore," she commented quietly, never looking up at him.

John laughed. "Touché." He shook his head at her questioning look. "Never mind. You're right."

She deftly undid the knot and carefully peeled off the bandage. "They are not serious," she proclaimed quietly.

He lifted his hand from her grasp and looked at his knuckles. Red and slightly swollen, the wounds nonetheless were scabbed over and seemed superficial. He flexed his knuckles carefully, noting the stiffness, but his hand seemed none the worse for wear. Memories briefly flashed back to him. "I sure did a number on them…" he muttered. He looked up as Charin gently took his other hand.

"They are not the most serious wounds you carry, John." She set to work on the knot covering his right knuckles. "But I believe those wounds, much like these, are healing."

He smiled slightly, but said nothing. He drew strength from her quiet confidence and gentle touch as she carefully removed the bandage.

John's right one seemed no worse than the left. He looked up as the tent flap opened and Kelin stuck his head inside.

"We heard voices."

John smiled and waved at him. "Kelin, come in."

Kelin lifted the tent flap higher, and suddenly Pertus appeared. He looked at John hesitantly.

John smiled warmly. "Pertus."

Pertus crossed the tent to John, who swung his legs over the bench and faced the boy.

Without a word Pertus quickly hugged John tightly. "I was worried for you," he whispered.

John sighed and wrapped his arms around the boy. "I'm fine, Pertus." He gently pushed the boy back and smiled at him. "Did you have fun with Jinto?"

Pertus nodded slightly. "Yes, and I even stayed with Kelin and Sorbus too." Pertus stifled a yawn. "We went hunting today."

"Yeah?" John asked. "Did you catch anything?"

Pertus grimaced. "No, but Kelin told me I am only a beginner, and it is okay."

John glanced up and smiled at Kelin, who returned the expression. John once again looked at Pertus. "He's right." John squeezed the boy's shoulder. "But, I think you need some sleep."

"I will leave you now," Charin declared quietly, as she stood. She smiled at John. "I will leave the stew here. Just bring the pot to me when you are finished with it."

John nodded, his smile turning deeply grateful. "I will. Thank you, Charin." He reached out towards her, waiting.

Charin grabbed his hand gently.

John brought his other hand up and over hers. He squeezed with both. "Very much." He felt her grip tighten in his.

"You are welcome, John." She let go and turned away.

John returned his attention to Pertus. "Time for bed." He smiled as the tired boy walked to his pallet. John looked up, meeting the searching gaze of Kelin with a confident one of his own.

Slowly, Kelin smiled. "I will see you in the morning, John. Try to sleep again. It will not hurt you."

John nodded. "Not sure I can, but I'll try. Good night, Kelin." He extended his hand, palm up to Kelin.

Kelin continued smiling as he grabbed John's forearm. He turned his arm, and looked at John's knuckles. "They seem better." He nodded to himself and tightened his grip. "Good night, my friend." He broke the grasp and walked away.

"Kelin?" John's voice stopped him in the doorway.

"Yes, John?"

John looked away for a moment, pursed his lips and took a deep breath before looking back to Kelin. "Thank you." His voice was sincere.

Kelin nodded slightly in understanding. "You are welcome."

----------------------------------

The cool predawn air caressed John's body as he stepped from his tent. Quickly, he swung the long, fur-lined coat over his shoulders and pushed his arms into the sleeves. The medium weight, Athosian-made coat was the perfect thickness for the pre-dawn chill. A faint pink glow in the east revealed the imminent sunrise, and he felt invigorated by the fresh air. Pertus still slept, so he took the opportunity to take a short walk.

His relaxed stride carried him away from the tent. He easily found his way through the settlement, his path lit by the faint predawn glow.

"They are not the most serious wounds you carry, John. But I believe those wounds, much like these, are healing."

He smiled to himself as he looked up at the faint stars, their light fading to the growing dawn. In the few weeks that had passed, he'd felt the acute pain of his breakdown begin to ebb. His torturous surrender to his torment had been the most difficult experience he had ever gone through, but he felt strangely strengthened by it. He'd survived, and, while he wasn't a hundred percent normal, he was well on his way to getting there. If he could get through that, he truly felt he could cope with anything.

He pulled in a deep, cleansing breath. Once he made heads and tails of it, that realization was bolstering his confidence in ways he'd never imagined. He was starting to again find the strength of his character, and with it balance to his life. He smiled. He was beginning to see, again, who John Sheppard was… and, inevitably, he had started to feel a pull from Atlantis.

He sighed, wondering how Elizabeth was… or Rodney… or Teyla. Did they think of him? Miss him? He smiled slightly and nodded to himself. They were his friends, and he knew, deep down, he wasn't far from their thoughts. He'd hurt most of them, in one way or another. As he looked back, he wondered, honestly, how he hadn't seen it. Hadn't known… hadn't been able to accept what was right in front of him… what they all were trying to tell him.

Slowly, he smiled. He knew now and, in the end, that was the important part. He had some apologizing to do, but deep down, he knew every one of them would accept it. Hell, he could even hear Elizabeth telling him it wasn't necessary, but he felt it was… and in the end, he knew she'd accept any apology for that very reason.

Quiet voices interrupted his train of thought. His gaze narrowed, as he was able to make out Kelin's voice.

"…is gone. None of the boys has seen her since last night. We will need to search for her."

Another voice. "She is so young."

"Yes," Kelin agreed, "I fear for her safety. We must find her."

John felt his apprehension rise at the concern he heard in Kelin's voice. Taking a moment to identify where the voices were coming from, he walked around a nearby tent just in time to see an Athosian man jog off, leaving Kelin standing alone. "Kelin?" John questioned.

Kelin's brows arched in slight surprise as he walked over to him. "I did not expect to see you this early, my friend."

John nodded absently. "What's going on? Who's missing?" he asked quietly.

Kelin shook his head. "Myella. There was an… altercation between her and Rentel last night over snares. Myella again did not catch anything. No one has seen her since last night." Kelin's gaze narrowed. "She feels the need to prove herself, although it is not necessary." Concern blanketed Kelin's expression. "She is young, and the young often do foolish and rash things, but beyond the confines of the settlement it is an untamed country, John. I fear for her safety."

John nodded in agreement. He felt his professionalism kick in as everything else was put aside. "Let me help look for her. Also, have someone radio Atlantis. Tell Elizabeth what's going on and get some help." A moment of embarrassment passed over John as Kelin arched a surprised eyebrow at his authoritative tone. He sighed. "Look, I'm not telling you what to do, but my people can help… and so can I."

Kelin smiled and nodded. He looked past John and waved to Halling, who trotted over. "Has anyone contacted Dr. Weir on Atlantis? They may be able to help."

Halling glanced for a moment at John before nodding. "Yes, we will do that." He smiled at John. "Thank you, Major." Halling jogged away from them.

John returned his gaze to Kelin. "How are we doing this?" He fell into step next to Kelin as they both made their way to the central area of the settlement.

"Many of us are dividing into search groups, which will depart at first light. I am taking Rentel and Sorbus with me, as the boys may have some ideas where she has gone." Kelin glanced at John. "I would also like to have Pertus with me, if that is all right with you."

John's gaze narrowed. "Pertus? If I'm on a team, maybe he should be with me?"

Kelin smiled slightly, stopped and faced John. "True, but you will not be on the mainland forever, John. Pertus will need a home here."

Realization dawned on John, as his jaw dropped slightly. "You?"

Kelin's smile turned reflective. "I have fostered children before, and even now I care for Sorbus. Pertus is no different." He inhaled deeply. "But that is a discussion for another time."

John smiled. "Right. And Pertus should go with you."

"Excellent. Take Jinto and Wex. They also are close to Myella and may know where she has gone."

John nodded. "What about Halling?"

"Halling is staying here to coordinate the searchers… and to be with Myella's parents. They are… not taking this well." Kelin shook his head. "Laonid was ready to go off on his own to search for his daughter, despite the need to coordinate this effort correctly, and Nulea, well she…" Kelin sighed. "There are times, John, when I wonder how Myella could be their daughter."

John nodded. "I get it." He returned his attention forward as they arrived in the central area, and waved Jinto over to him.

"Major Sheppard?" Jinto questioned.

John smiled briefly. "Go to my tent. Wake Pertus and bring him back here. Quickly."

Jinto nodded and dashed off.

Several packs had been laid out, well laden with supplies for the search parties. John nodded in recognition to Halling as he approached him.

"I have spoken with Dr. Weir. She is sending a Jumper with Teyla and some of your people to help."

John smiled. "Thought she would."

----------------------

He had just finished packing his supplies when a familiar whine from the sky grabbed his attention. He looked up, smiling, and watched as a Jumper slowly landed a short distance away, its graceful form silhouetted against the first light of the rising sun.

Slinging his pack over his shoulder, he trotted across the field towards the Jumper, his duster-length jacket dragging slightly through the long grass. As he approached the Jumper, the rear hatch opened, and Teyla, Markham, Stackhouse and Rodney slowly exited.

"Major!" Stackhouse waved as Sheppard trotted across the field to them. "It's good to see you, sir."

John smiled and nodded at Stackhouse, before giving a similar gesture to Markham. His gaze caught on Teyla, and, for a moment, silence hung between them. Her gaze was intuitive, and John stared evenly back at her. For the first time in a long while, he felt comfortable with her uncanny intuition, and the look he gave her must've portrayed that.

Teyla slowly smiled and nodded slightly. "You seem well, Major."

He smiled back. "I'm getting there," he said quietly.

"You look like you're straight out of a Jean Auel book. Very 'Clan of the Cave Bear'-ish…"

John shook his head and slowly turned his attention to Rodney. He held his slight smile. "Nice to see you too, Rodney. Surprised to see you here though."

Predictably, Rodney sighed in irritation. "Yes, well, despite all reports, I'm not as cold hearted as you think…" His voice trailed off as three cynical looks and Teyla's unbelieving one greeted his statement. "Fine," Rodney snapped. "I wouldn't be here if you didn't need me to keep the power levels on the Jumper under control."

John thought for a second, before realization dawned on him. "You're going to use the same trick you used to find Kelin, Rentel and Sorbus before?"

"Well, we wouldn't be very useful if we didn't!" Rodney retorted.

John's brows furrowed. "There are going to be searchers all over the woods…."

"In groups!" Rodney interrupted, "she'll be alone. That's how."

Unfazed, John just shook his head. "Come on, let's get this coordinated with Halling and get going." He turned towards the settlement, only to be stopped by Stackhouse's hand. He turned. "Sergeant?"

Stackhouse grinned and held out his hand. "Thought you might want one of these, Major."

John looked down, a small smile turning up his mouth at the radio headset that rested in the sergeant's hand. He quickly fit the headset over his ear, taking strange comfort in the all-too-familiar feeling. "Right. Let's go." He turned and walked briskly back towards the settlement, Teyla, Markham, Stackhouse and Rodney right behind.

After quick deliberation, the search patterns for both the ground teams and the Jumper were established, and John found himself watching as the Atlantis team made their way back to the Jumper, all except Teyla, who was leading a search team of her own. "Sergeant!" he called, stopping Stackhouse in his tracks.

"Sir?"

John tapped his headset. "Stay in contact, at least every hour."

Stackhouse nodded curtly. "Yes sir."

John turned back as Halling approached him, Jinto and Wex just behind. John nodded briefly at Halling before looking down to the boys. "Ready?"

"Yes," Jinto responded.

John's gaze narrowed. Jinto's expression was hesitant. "What's wrong, Jinto?" John glanced at Halling as he looked down at his son.

"Jinto?" Halling's deep voice was questioning.

Jinto shuffled his feet and glanced at Wex, who looked equally uncomfortable. Jinto looked back at John. "We…" he bit his lip, "we don't know where Myella is, Major Sheppard."

John sighed and smiled slightly. "I know that, Jinto. It's okay. No one expects any of you to know exactly where she is, but you have a better idea of where she could be than we do." He squeezed the boy's shoulder. "Just do your best."

"Major Sheppard is right," Halling agreed. He knelt and placed both hands on his son's shoulders. "Do your best, and do what Major Sheppard tells you, my son." Halling glanced at Wex. "And you."

"Yes, Father." Jinto nodded, some of the hesitation gone from his voice.

Halling stood again, and grasped John's forearm. "Go safely, Major, and good fortune."

John smiled. "Thanks." Shifting the pack on his back, John headed out of the settlement in the direction of his first search area, Jinto and Wex right behind.

----------------------

John stepped through the dense underbrush and dodged a stout branch before looking back at the boys. "Where are we going?"

Jinto pointed at the barely visible path they were following. "That way. There is a cave at the base of the hills we all go to sometimes. Myella knows of it."

John nodded and looked down at the alleged path. To call it anything but a slight depression in the thick underbrush was an overstatement, yet he had few problems following it. He smiled. Apparently, working with the Athosian adolescents had rubbed off on him too. Abruptly, he stopped, waving behind him to halt the boys. He knelt and pushed back a large fern branch. He smiled at the faint, but fresh track. "Jinto," John back as Jinto leaned over his shoulder. "What do you make of that?"

"Let me see too!" Wex pushed branches out of the way and looked over John's other shoulder. "Oh, I know!"

"So do I," Jinto glared briefly at Wex before looking back at John. "It's a fresh track. The size is right for Myella."

John smiled. "Right. It's likely her, but never assume anything, Jinto."

"You sound like Kelin," Wex observed.

John chuckled. "I guess I do. I'll take that as a compliment by the way." He stood and continued following the path through the woods.

Before long, the underbrush thinned, and they found themselves face to face with the base of the foothills. John looked around. "Where is this cave?"

Jinto pointed to a ragged outcropping of rocks. "Over there. It is hard to see, but there is a small entrance."

John crossed the narrow clearing to the rocks, arching a brow as he finally spotted the entrance. He paused. "Myella?" he called. He listened, shaking his head at the silence that greeted him.

"She is not here," Jinto said quietly.

"Or she's not answering us," John observed. He walked up to the cave entrance and looked around.

"She is not here," Jinto repeated.

John glanced at the boy, his gaze narrowing. "How do you know?"

Jinto pointed at gauzy moss that hung low over the entrance. "She would not be able to enter without disturbing that."

"And there are no tracks!" Wex pointed at the soft clay surrounding the entrance to the cave.

John smiled. The missing tracks he'd spotted, but the moss was a good catch by Jinto. "Right." John stepped away from the cave and tapped his radio headset. "Jumper Three do you copy?" He shook his head at the static. "Must be out of range," he muttered.

He looked back at the boys who stood nearby. "Any other ideas?"

Jinto and Wex exchanged looks as they both thought.

"What about…?"

"Wex!" Jinto hissed.

John's gaze narrowed as it passed from one boy to another. His suspicion intensified as both of them refused to make eye contact with him. "Jinto, Wex? What aren't you telling me?" He pursed his lips at their silence. "If you know where Myella is, you need to tell me."

"We do not know," Jinto said quietly, still not meeting John's gaze. "I promise that."

John nodded slowly. "Okay. What do you know?" He waited patiently as the two boys again exchanged hesitant looks before nodding at each other.

Jinto slowly looked up at John. "There is a place, not far from here, where the river comes out of the hills. It is a waterfall and cove. We all like to go there sometimes."

John nodded. "Why the big secret?"

Jinto bit his lip but spoke anyway. "Because it is beyond the boundaries of where we are allowed to go without an adult with us."

John nodded slowly. "Sounds like a likely spot." He arched an eyebrow at the boys. "Is there anything else you're not telling me?"

Jinto's eyes widened. "No, Major Sheppard! I do not know if Myella is there! We were not trying to keep anything from you, I promise!"

John sighed. "It's okay, I believe you." He held the stern expression for a moment, before letting it soften some. "You both did the right thing by telling me. Your parents may have words with both of you over this, but you still did the right thing, okay?"

The boys nodded.

"Okay then." He gestured in the direction of the river. "Let's go."

------------------------

He watched his step as they followed the uneven base of the foothills. At first, only the sound of the wind journeyed with them, but after a while, a faint roaring could be heard. As they continued on, the roaring got louder, until at last they saw the river. John stopped as he took in the sight. Cascading down from a steep cliffside, a wide waterfall emptied into a large cove, which narrowed into a river and flowed off into the trees. Eventually, that water would pass the Athosian settlement, before emptying into the ocean. "Nice," John muttered. He scanned the area, looking for signs of the Athosian girl. "Myella?" he called.

"She may be up there," Jinto pointed to the top of the cliff. "There is a plateau there. From it, you can see for miles. She always liked climbing up there."

John arched an eyebrow at the steep cliff. "You'd have to be a mountain goat to climb that," he muttered. He glanced at the boys' confused expressions. "Never mind. How did you get up there?"

Jinto pointed not far behind them to where the hillside was more gradual. "We climb up there then walk back."

John nodded. "Okay." He briskly walked towards the gentle slope, nodding to himself as he spotted a narrow, switchback path zigzagging across the hill. Not hesitating, he started up the path, following its winding course as it made its way up the hillside. Slightly winded, he was glad when the steep incline leveled out and the path made its way back towards the river.

Before long, the underbrush thinned, and he found himself walking on hard rock, as the hill morphed into a cliff. To one side, behind him, was a steep incline as the hills continued their path to the mountains, but the other was a sharp drop off, providing an impressive view. He looked around. Were it not for the trees and the forest below them, he was sure he'd be able to see the Athosian settlement from here. Stopping, he again tapped the call button on his headset, convinced the elevation and decreased natural barriers would give him considerably better radio range. "Jumper Three do you copy?"

He smiled as Stackhouse's voice answered him. "This is Jumper Three, go ahead, Major."

"Sergeant, radio back to Halling and let him know the cave was a bust. We're in the hills close by to the river checking something else out. Will advise when we know something."

"Copy that, Major, Jumper Three clear."

"Sheppard out."

John continued on his way. Before long, he abruptly stopped and knelt. He smiled slightly at the faint track in the soft dirt. "She's here… or at least she was." He glanced back at the boys' hesitant looks. "Yeah, I know, assuming it's her, but who else would be up here?"

He stood and continued on, encouraged as he spotted another track. Before long, the river came into view. He glanced upstream to where the river swiftly flowed down the hill before it leveled out for a short distance as it crossed the plateau on its way to the waterfall. Jagged rocks protruded from its white-capped surface, and the rush of water crashing into them created a loud roar. Once again, the vegetation thickened in response to the ready supply of water. He stepped around some bushes and onto the riverbank. He stopped abruptly and smiled at the small figure standing on a large rock halfway across the river. Looking around, he spotted several rocks, each within jumping distance of each other, and realized the girl must've jumped from one to another to get to where she was. He shook his head at the danger, but part of him admired her courageous spirit.

He took a moment to glance down at Jinto and Wex and smile, before once again looking out at the girl. The rock she stood upon was narrow and jagged and he hesitated at the thought of startling her. He never had a chance to consider his options, as Wex beat him to the punch.

"Myella!" Wex called loudly.

"Wait…"John's voice trailed off as Wex's call had the exact effect on the Athosian girl that he feared.

Startled, Myella turned quickly, her sudden movement throwing off her balance. Her feet scrambling madly, she screamed an instant before she fell backwards into the river.

"Myella!" John shouted. He ran the rest of the distance to the river and stopped on the bank, his gaze searching. His gaze narrowed as he spotted her small form, clinging to a nearby rock. "Hang on, Myella!" He looked around, quickly noting the swift progress of the river. His eyes traced the path of rocks Myella had originally jumped to get to the center of the river. He grimaced in frustration. Her fall had carried her far enough downstream there was no way for him to jump rocks and get to her. His gaze fixed on the not-too-distant edge of the waterfall. Always a strong swimmer, he still doubted he could reach the girl before the current carried him further downstream than she was, even if he ran a ways up river and started there. And if he missed…

He shook his head. There had to be a better way.

"I am sorry!" Wex's voice was panicked.

John glanced at both boys. "It's okay, we'll get her." His gaze once again fixed on the girl. Even from this distance, he could see the fear in her expression. "Hang on, Myella!" he called, "it's gonna be okay!" He reached up and tapped his headset. "Jumper Three, this is Sheppard, come in."

"Jumper Three," Stackhouse responded.

"Sergeant, we've found Myella. She's fallen into the river and I can't get to her. I need Markham to fly the Jumper here and lower me down to her. We're at the top of the waterfall. Just fly to the river and follow it to the foothills. You can't miss us. And have some rope ready."

"Copy that, Major, we're on our way. ETA is 10 minutes."

John shook his head. "Make it less than that, Sergeant."

"Yes, sir. Jumper Three out."

John walked to the edge of the water. He winced as his foot sunk into the mud and the cold river water seeped through his boot. A sense of urgency crept into him. Straight from the mountains, the near freezing water was snowmelt. Even uninjured, and John wasn't too sure about that, Myella wouldn't be able to hang on long before the cold sapped her strength. "Myella?" he called. "Help's coming! Hold on, okay?" His gaze narrowed at her lack of response. He could barely make her out over the rushing water. "Myella? Come on, sweetie, answer me." John pursed his lips. "Myella!" he shouted louder.

"M…Major?"

Faint, John could just make out her shaking voice over the rush of the water. "That's it, I'm here. You're gonna be okay! Help's coming, you just have to hang onto that rock, okay? Don't let go!"

"Major Sheppard?" Jinto's voice was unsure and held a note of panic.

John glanced down at both boys. "We'll get her, its going to be okay."

Before too long, he looked up as a familiar whine caught his attention. He smiled slightly as the Jumper suddenly appeared from below the edge of the waterfall. He tapped his radio. "That was quick. Good flying Sergeant."

"Thanks sir," Markham responded.

"Never mind that he nearly killed us getting here." Rodney's annoyed voice broke in.

John pursed his lips, the urgency of the situation lowering his tolerance. "Pipe down, McKay, you're in one piece. Markham?"

"I see the girl," the pilot answered, "Stackhouse is ready at the back hatch to lower some rope to you."

"Copy that. Put me on Vox." John glanced at Wex and Jinto. "You two get back by the tree line and out of the way, okay?"

Both boys nodded and ran back to the trees a safe distance away.

John returned his attention to the Jumper as it slowly descended right above him. He shrugged out of his pack, and the fur lined Athosian overcoat he wore, shedding the possible hindrance of loose clothing, especially if the thick coat got wet, and opting to do this only in his close fitting t-shirt and flexible pants. He momentarily considered leaving his boots behind, but dismissed the idea. He'd need them to protect his feet if he had to push off of or land on one of the rocks.

Markham stopped their descent about 25 feet above him, and the back hatch abruptly opened.

"Heads up!" Stackhouse called. An instant later, two coils of rope sailed down from the open hatch and hit the ground close to John.

"Stand by, Sergeant," John said as he trotted to the rope. He winced as something light brushed against his head, before hitting the ground behind him. "What the…?" he looked down, arching his eyebrow at the pair of gloves, knotted together lying on the ground.

"Thought you could use those, sir."

John looked up, nodding as Stackhouse waved down at him. "Good thinking." He reached down, snagging the gloves. Heavy but flexible, the grips were coarse leather, and would protect his hands, while still giving him the dexterity he needed. He shoved his hands into the gloves and reached for the rope. Grabbing the ends of both ropes, he wove them together for added strength before he quickly devised a makeshift harness and stepped into it. "Stackhouse? Take up the slack until I tell you to stop."

"Copy that."

John watched as the slack rope was pulled up. As the rope grew taut, he settled back against his harness. "Okay, that's good. Tie me off and let's do this!"

"Hold on," Rodney's voice once again cut in on the radio.

John sighed. "What's the hold up?"

"Oh, I don't know, I thought I'd pad the ropes against the edges of the Jumper frame," Rodney snapped back, "unless you'd like them to fray while you're suspended over a rushing river, barely fifty feet from a waterfall?"

John grimaced, briefly annoyed at Rodney's typical sarcasm. He let it go. "Copy that. We ready?"

"Stand by, sir," Markham answered his question.

He held tightly to the rope and tried to relax into his harness as he felt himself eased off the ground.

"Hold onto your butt… sir," Markham's voice was slightly distracted.

In spite of the urgent situation, John quirked his eyebrows in response to the Sergeant's comment. "Do I have a choice?" Shifting his weight back and forth, he struggled to keep his balance centered over the thin rope that cut into his backside. He felt goosebumps rise on his arms from the wind resistance as Markam carefully piloted the Jumper towards Myella. He dismissed the thoughts of discomfort and returned to business as he drew closer to Myella. "Steady now, Sergeant, we're almost there."

"Yes, sir." Markham's voice was clearly distracted now. "I have you both on the HUD."

"Copy that." John snaked his left arm around the ropes, allowing them to cut into his forearm as he once again took a tight hold. The coarse leather gloves lent traction to his grip as he slowly lifted his legs and leaned back. He was nearly parallel with the water as he reached out towards the girl.

His gaze narrowed at her glassy expression. Her lips were bluish and her teeth were chattering violently. "Myella." Lowering his voice to a calm and reassuring tone, he urged her to take his hand. Ignoring the bite of the rope in his arm, and its pinch in his legs, he focused all his attention on her. "Myella? Come on, honey, take my hand. You can do it."

After an agonizingly long moment, Myella slowly looked up at him. He smiled reassuringly. "You're gonna be okay, just take my hand."

Slowly, she lifted one shaking hand, only to nearly lose her precarious hold on the rock.

Lunging, John grabbed for her but missed. He quickly reached up with his free hand and grabbed the rope as his abrupt actions set him dangerously off balance. For a moment, he fought his uncertain balance as he swung back and forth, before he once again gained control. He quickly looked back at the river, sighing slightly as he spotted Myella.

Somehow, Myella had managed to regain her grip on the rock, but against the rushing water, she needed both hands to do it.

John pulled in a deep breath, his heart pounding. "That was close," he muttered.

"What happened?" Rodney instantly responded.

"She damn near lost her hold trying to reach for my hand." John's mind raced as he considered the situation. Only one option presented itself. "Sergeant, you're going to have to lower me into the water so I can grab her. She's too weak to reach for me."

"Sir?" Markham's voice was hesitant.

"You've got to be joking!" Rodney's voice was disbelieving.

John hardened his tone. "We don't have a choice here."

"Major…" Rodney started again.

John sighed and lowered his voice, hoping Myella couldn't hear. "We don't have much time before we lose her. I'm not going to let that happen." His gaze narrowed as he brought his voice back to a normal tone. "Markham, do it. That's an order."

"Yes, sir," Markham agreed, even though he sounded no more sure of John's idea than Rodney was.

John gritted his teeth as the cold water enveloped his lower body. "Damn," he muttered. As the line of cold water crept up his chest, he braced his feet against the rock and pushed himself closer to Myella. "Sergeant, bring me closer. Easy now, not much." The current pulled insistently on him, trying to counter the Jumper's influence, as he edged closer to the girl. Slowly, John reached out and carefully wrapped his arm around her waist from behind. "Myella?" his voice was quiet and reassuring as he brought his face close to hers, "easy now, I've got you. Just let go and grab a hold of me." He fought the waver in his voice and teeth that wanted to chatter against the near freezing water. "Myella?" he asked again. "Come on, let go. It's okay, I've got you."

"Sir?" Markham's voice questioned.

"Stand by, Sergeant," John replied immediately. He returned his attention to the girl. "Myella," he raised his voice slightly, "listen to me. Let go." He craned his head to see her face. Her eyes were glazed over and her gaze distant. It was as if everything within her had shut down, except her instinctive grip on the rock. John shook his head at her near catatonic state. "Myella?" He raised his voice and shook her gently. "Myella?"

He pursed his lips. His left arm was on fire and his legs shaking as he fought to keep his position against the current. He shook her harder, more insistently. "Myella!"

Abruptly, the girl pulled in a stuttering breath and blinked hard. "M…Major Sh…Sheppard?"

John let himself smile briefly. "Hi there. Now, let go of the rock and grab onto my neck. I won't let go of you, I promise."

Her reflexes sluggish, Myella let go, but fumbled aimlessly when she tried to turn and grab him.

John gritted his teeth, grunting against the added weight dragging on him, but held fast. "Put your arms around my neck!" The burning fire in his left arm cut through the chill in his body, but he tuned it out. "Myella! Grab onto me! Now!"

Somehow the girl managed to turn and wrap her arms snugly around his neck.

John sighed in relief, the strain on his body lessening as she held tightly to him. "Good, wrap your legs around me too, honey," John urged, smiling slightly as he felt her legs latch onto him. He tightened his arm around her and looked up at the underside of the Jumper. "Get us out of here, Sergeant!" His voice wavered from fatigue and cold, but he held fast to the rope. Glancing up, he noticed trickles of blood working their way down his arm, from rope burns, but his grip never wavered. The cool air felt like a summer's day compared to the frigid water, but as soon as the river breeze hit him, his chill redoubled, and when the Jumper eased him onto the riverbank, it took everything he had to just stand up without collapsing. The rope slackened and he carefully laid Myella on the ground before stepping out of the harness. He instinctively cradled his left arm as he stared for a moment at her semi-conscious face before reaching out and grabbing his discarded coat. He knelt and hastily wrapped it around her, and then pressed his fingers into her neck, wincing at the icy cold feel of her skin and the slow pace of her pulse. "Sergeant, she may be hypothermic and I don't know what other injuries she has. We need to get her to Atlantis, ASAP."

"Yes, sir," Markham responded. "I don't have enough room to land, but I think I can get close enough to the ground to pick you up."

"Copy that." John waved at Jinto and Wex. "Come on!"

Both boys ran down the riverbank to John as he watched the Jumper descend. Half over the shore and half over the water, about five feet in the air, the Jumper stabilized.

"That's as close as I can push it, sir." Though professional, Markham's voice sounded slightly nervous.

"That's good enough, Sergeant." John picked up Myella and carried her to the Jumper. Grunting against his protesting body, he lifted the girl to Stackhouse, who was kneeling at the end of the back hatch.

"I got her sir," Stackhouse stood and carried the girl into the Jumper as John lifted Jinto high enough for him to grab Rodney's hand. Rodney lifted, helping the boy scramble onto the ramp. They repeated the process with Wex.

Stackhouse reappeared and extended his hand to John.

John grabbed Stackhouse's arm with one hand and Rodney's with the other. He jumped as they lifted and unceremoniously pulled him into a sitting position on the Jumper ramp.

"Since when did you get so heavy?" Rodney groused as he glared at Sheppard.

Before John could respond, Stackhouse grabbed his arm. The sergeant's gaze narrowed at the blood. "Sir, you okay?"

John nodded and struggled to his feet, his teeth chattering against the cool breeze that flowed over his wet body. "I'm fine." He made a beeline for Myella as Rodney closed the rear hatch. He snagged an emergency blanket from the overhead storage, shook it open and wrapped it around the semi conscious girl. "Markham! Get us to Atlantis!" he barked.

"Yes, sir!"

He reached under the blanket and hastily undid the laces around the neck of Myella's shirt, before pulling it over her head and throwing it on the floor. He wrapped the blanket tighter around her upper body, and draped part of it over her head like a hood. "Myella?" His voice was soft, but insistent. "Myella, open your eyes. Talk to me. Stay awake."

The girl moaned quietly in response.

Rodney stared down at the discarded tunic. "Major?"

Through the blanket, John rubbed Myella's arms, hoping to do anything to help her warm up and respond to him. He pointed at her feet. "Rodney, pull her boots off, then help me with her pants."

"Major, I really don't think…."

"McKay!" John interrupted, "I don't have time to argue modesty with you! The worst thing right now is for her to sit in these wet clothes, and you know it! Now, get her boots off." John glanced at Stackhouse. "Grab another blanket." Pulling her close, John wrapped his arms around her as Rodney pulled her knee high boots off. "Myella? Stay awake. Talk to me."

Myella's eyelids fluttered. "M…Major Sheppard?" she muttered quietly.

John cracked a small smile. "That's it. Talk to me." Reaching under the blanket, John undid the laces to her pants and waved at Rodney. "Pull them off." Sheppard's tone was no nonsense, and Rodney nodded and worked her wet pants down and off her legs. "Myella?" He questioned again.

"M…Major," the girl mumbled, "cold…."

John tightened his arms around her. "I know. It won't be long and we'll be back to Atlantis. You'll be warm there. Just stay awake and talk to me, okay?"

Stackhouse stepped in and threw another blanket over her legs, tucking it in snugly around her.

John looked up, his eyes narrowing as he met Rodney's gaze. "What?"

"You." Rodney pointed at him.

His attention pulled back to himself, John felt the chill that seemed to go right through his entire body, except his left arm, which throbbed.

"You okay?" Rodney's voice was quiet and bordered on concern.

"Nothing a hot cup of coffee wouldn't cure," John shifted Myella into his lap before quickly pulling his wet shirt off. A weight settled on his shoulders and, surprised, he looked up at Stackhouse, before his gaze fixed on the blanket that rested on his shoulders.

"With all due respect, sir, you look as though you could use one too." Stackhouse smiled slightly.

"You'll have to settle for tea," Rodney responded, his normal, arrogant tone returning.

"Just as long as it's hot." John returned his attention to Myella for a moment. He pulled her close, wrapping his arms tightly around her blanketed body. He looked up at Markham's back. "Sergeant? What's our ETA to Atlantis?"

"Fifteen minutes, sir," Markham responded.

"Less would be better, Sergeant," John urged.

Markham nodded. "Yes, sir. Working on it."

John sighed. "Radio Atlantis. Let them know we're incoming with a medical emergency. Probable hypothermia. Have Beckett standing by."

"Yes, sir," Markham again responded, his attention never diverting from his course.

John returned his attention to the young girl. "Myella?" He shook her gently. "Myella?" he repeated.

"Major," she slurred. Abruptly, her teeth started chattering violently, its effect shaking her whole body as she shivered intensely.

John's tight grip on her never wavered. "Pretty spot you picked," he commented quietly. "You go there often?" Again, he shook her gently, "Myella?"

"Yes," she muttered.

"When was the last time you were there?" John asked, determined to keep her talking.

"No…." Myella's headshake was disjointed.

Concern mounted in him as John wondered how lucid the girl was. He looked down at her. "No, what?"

"Get… trouble…" she croaked out around chattering teeth.

John smiled slightly. "I won't tell, I promise. So, when were you there last?"

"Few days ago."

"Yeah?" John's voice was soothing. "What do you do when you're there?"

"Th…think…." she stuttered.

John arched his brows. "What do you think about?" John waited a moment for her response before he looked down and shook her gently. "Myella? What do you think about?" Concern worked its way into his voice as the girl remained silent. "Myella? Answer me." He gently shook her again. "Myella?"

"Ouch," she suddenly answered him.

John looked up just in time to see Rodney let go of one of her blanket-covered feet.

Rodney met John's gaze and nodded slightly.

John briefly smiled at him before returning his attention to Myella. "So, what do you think about?"

"Tired…."

John's eyes widened slightly in concern. "I know. But, you need to stay awake. Understand? Stay awake."

"Major…" Myella slurred quietly.

"Final approach to Atlantis, sir," Markham abruptly spoke. "We'll be landing in a few minutes."

Relief glimmered in John. "Is Beckett standing by?"

"Yes, sir. Dr. Beckett and a medical team are in the Jumper Bay waiting."

John nodded. "Then get us landed, Sergeant."

"Doing that now, sir," Markham replied.

As soon as the Jumper landed, Rodney jumped up and slapped the rear hatch control. John looked up, as Carson suddenly appeared with a stretcher right behind him. Carson took a moment to look John over, before he peeled back the blanket and felt for Myella's pulse. "Major. Not the way I expected to see ye back in Atlantis." His tone was distracted.

"At least I know how to make an entrance," John quipped before his gaze turned serious. "Doc?"

Carson shifted Myella's torso out of John's grip as another medic grabbed the girl's legs. Together, they lifted her into the waiting stretcher. "Get an IV with warm saline started, and I want a full set of vitals, including her core temperature." Carson tucked a pre-warmed blanket over the girl before turning his attention back to John. "We'll take good care of her." His eyes scanned over a wet, cold John. "Are ye alright, Major? Can ye walk?"

John nodded and pushed back the blankets. "Nothing a hot shower wouldn't fix…." His voice trailed off as Carson spotted his bleeding arm.

"Ach! Fine indeed!" He grabbed John arm and briefly scanned the injuries. Convinced they weren't serious, Carson stood and waved at Lansing.

The medic took one look at John and grabbed another blanket before coming over to him.

Carson took the blanket from her, shook it open and threw it over John.

John inhaled sharply, the warmth from the pre-heated blanket almost painful.

"Carolyn," Carson turned back to the medic, "see to his arm, get a set of vitals, including temperature, and make sure when the Major decides to stand and walk, that he finds his way to the infirmary."

"Doc…" John ventured.

"No arguments!" Carson pointed briefly at John. The discussion closed, Carson returned his attention to the stretcher and escorted it from the Jumper.

John looked up at the medic and flashed her a charming smile. "I really am okay."

Lansing's gaze narrowed. "Hmm." She knelt, pulled out a BP cuff and stethoscope, and started on Beckett's orders. "We'll let Dr. Beckett be the judge of that."

"Lansing… it's Carolyn, right?" John started again, only to be shushed by the medic as she inflated the BP cuff.

After a moment, she sat back and removed the stethoscope from her ears. She grabbed his wrist, palpating a pulse.

John smiled again. "Carolyn. Do you mind if I call you Carolyn?"

She briefly looked up from her watch, her expression wary. "That's fine."

He smiled wider. "Carolyn. Look I'm okay. Just bandage my arm, and I'll go take a hot shower before coming to the infirmary to see Myella, alright?" He waved at the medical bag. "This really isn't necessary…."

"Really?" Lansing arched an eyebrow at him. "And that's your expert opinion?"

John's smile faded at her no nonsense tone. He turned up the charm and arched an eyebrow at her. "Well…."

"Major," Lansing interrupted him, "don't bother. You're still going to the infirmary. I don't care how charming you try to be."

John grimaced. "How…?"

Lansing laughed. "How? Five years as a paramedic with the city of Chicago. That's how. It never worked for firemen, and its sure not going to work for you." She smiled sweetly. "Although, you're good at the charm angle, Major… very good."

John sighed.

------------------------------

Her stride quick, Elizabeth made her way through the busy corridors towards the infirmary. Her stomach was crowded with butterflies, the fast pace she set doing nothing to help quell them. In the two months since she'd sent John to the Mainland, her thoughts had routinely turned to him. Now, confronted with the moment of truth… to know if he was better or not, she was almost scared to face him. What if he wasn't? What if there was no improvement? What would he do?

What would she do?

At the door to the infirmary she stopped. Pulling in a deep breath, she stepped forward, the door automatically opening in response. She slowly walked through, and paused again, taking in her surroundings.

To one side, Carson and two medics were working over a small girl lying motionless on a gurney. Elizabeth studied Carson's gaze for a moment. While intense, his expression wasn't one of grave concern and she deduced that, while injured, the girl probably wasn't in immediate danger anymore.

Slowly, she turned until she met the gaze of John Sheppard. One of Carson's medics was cleaning a nasty looking wound on his arm, but his eyes only focused on Elizabeth. She froze and stared back at him for a moment, trying to read what was on his mind. John's expression was carefully neutral, but beyond that…

Elizabeth pushed down the hope that welled within her. He seemed slightly concerned, no doubt for the girl Carson was tending, but something else was different. Elizabeth kept the surprise from her face as realization swept over her. For the past couple months, whenever she was near him, John had radiated a boiling tension that she could almost feel. Without realizing it, she'd started to grow accustomed to it. Until this moment, feeling the absence of it, seeing no trace of it in his expression, she hadn't realized how used to it she had become.

Slowly, one side of John's mouth turned up in a small, half smile.

Elizabeth pulled in a deep breath and blinked, snapping the moment of hesitation within her. She crossed the infirmary until she stood before him. "Major," she smiled a little and nodded, "are you okay?"

He arched a brow at her and motioned with his head at Lansing. "Ask my boss," he commented wryly.

Elizabeth's smile turned amused, and she looked expectantly at Lansing.

Lansing glanced up at Elizabeth for a moment before returning her attention to John's wound. "I think he's fine, now that we got him out of those wet clothes and into some dry ones." She nodded her head at the wounds she was tending. "These don't seem serious, but Dr. Beckett will have the final word when he has a chance."

John lifted his other hand and, for the first time, Elizabeth noticed the steaming mug of Athosian tea he'd been nursing.

"This helps, but I'd kill for a cup of hot coffee."

He quirked his eyebrows at Elizabeth, and she couldn't help but smile back. Relief washed through her and she dared to hope that what she saw was indeed the John Sheppard she grown to know in the months before his capture by the Wraith. Her smile faded as hesitation whispered to her. Her gaze turned slightly wary, and in an instant, she knew he noticed it.

He sighed quietly and looked at Lansing. "Carolyn, can you give Dr. Weir and me a couple of minutes? We… ah, have something to discuss."

Elizabeth nodded slightly at Lansing, who looked back to John.

"Sure." She pointed at his chest. "As long as you stay put."

"I'll make sure he does," Elizabeth reassured the medic.

Lansing nodded, the word of the expedition leader seeming to be good enough, and walked away.

John sighed again and looked back at Elizabeth. "I suppose this is the point where you ask how I am, and I tell you I'm fine." He arched a brow at her.

Holding her expression carefully neutral, she nodded slightly. "I suppose so." Her gaze narrowed. "How are you, John? Really?" She watched him as he looked away for a moment while he considered her words. Some confirmation of how he really was returned to Elizabeth. Instead of leaping to the standard answer of 'I'm fine', he actually seemed to be considering her words. That alone reassured her. Finally, he looked at her, his expression somber.

"I'm not fine," he replied quietly, "but I'm a lot better."

Relief washed through her. She drew in a deep breath and smiled. "That's the best answer you could've given me."

He chuckled. "Yeah?" His gaze narrowed slightly. "You believe me?"

She nodded slowly. "Yes." She arched a humored eyebrow at him.

He stared intently at her for a moment before his expression took on a playful look. "Hell, had I known that, I would've said it a long time ago," he chuckled.

"I wouldn't have believed you," she responded quietly.

"But now you do?" His voice held a note of hesitation.

She made eye contact with him and stared for a quiet moment. "Yes, I do."

Slowly, he smiled. He inhaled quickly and looked away. "Elizabeth I…" his hesitant voice trailed off.

She reached out, squeezing his uninjured forearm slightly. "John?"

He looked down at her hand for a moment, before looking up at her. He swallowed hard. "I'm ready to come back to Atlantis…. I'm ready to come home," he said quietly.

She met his hesitant, almost pleading, expression with a strong and warm one of her own. She smiled and nodded. "I'm ready to have you back, Major."

He let out a pent up breath and smiled.

She let go of his arm and stepped back. "What about Pertus?"

He nodded. "Item one on my list of things to take care of. I need to go back to the mainland and wrap a few things up. Kelin has offered to foster Pertus."

She nodded. "What does Pertus think?"

John shrugged. "I actually haven't asked him about it yet, but he seems to like Kelin well enough. I think it'll be okay."

"It'll be hard on him at first," she pointed out quietly.

He nodded. "I know. But, he belongs there, and I…" he smiled, "I belong here."

She smiled. "Yes, you do."

John's reply was derailed as Carson walked up to both of them. "Am I interrupting?"

"Carson, no, not at all," Elizabeth replied.

"How's Myella?" John asked immediately.

Carson smiled. "She'll be fine. The hypothermia was a bit of a problem at first, but her core temp is coming up nicely now. She didn't sustain any other injuries. Bloody lucky if you ask me, considering the rocks, river and current…." He grinned. "She's awake if you'd like to talk to her."

John smiled, his expression relieved. "Yeah, I would."

"First, let's take a look at that arm." Carson grabbed John's wrist and lifted his arm. His gaze followed the path of the burns. "Ach, that must've hurt," he commented absently as he poked gently, drawing an involuntary hiss from John.

John winced as Carson probed again, and nodded. "Didn't have much choice, Doc."

Carson sighed and smiled slightly. "Aye. It's not too serious, but I want you to keep it bandaged and dry at least for the next week. Change the bandage often, and come see me if it gets red, swollen or hot, all right? I know you're on the mainland, but I want to see ye if any of those symptoms occur, understood?" Carson's voice took on a no-nonsense tone.

"Don't worry, Doc, I'm, uh… coming back to Atlantis. So, I'll be close by for you to poke, prod and pester." John arched an eyebrow at Carson.

Carson glanced at Elizabeth, before looking back to John. He was unfazed by John's good-natured ribbing. "Are ye now?" He smiled. "Glad to hear it." He grabbed some bandage materials and set to wrapping John's arm. "I wouldn't have to pester ye if ye were an agreeable patient, Major."

John arched his brows, conceding the point, and silently smiled at Elizabeth.

She shook her head. "Carson? Keep me posted."

"Aye." Carson answered, never looking up at her.

"Major?" Elizabeth smiled at John, "come see me when you can. We have half a dozen things to go over to get you caught up on what's going on around here."

John sighed. "Right. Do me a favor? Call the mainland and let them know what's going on? Maybe send a Jumper to bring Myella's parents here? The last they heard, we were headed to Atlantis." John snapped his fingers. "Oh, and if you could ask Halling if its okay that Pertus stays with him tonight, that'd be great. Tell him I owe him one."

Elizabeth nodded. "Will do." She turned away, allowing a full smile at the banter between John and Carson that followed her out.

"Ow!"

"For someone who put up with getting this injury in the first place, you're awfully sensitive, Major," Carson shot back.

John's reply was lost to Elizabeth as the infirmary doors closed behind her. Giggling quietly, she headed for the command deck, her heart lighter than it had been in a long time.

------------------

John approached Myella's bed. He glanced at the monitor and IV bag that hung just behind it, before looking down at the Athosian girl. His smile warm, he stopped next to her bed. "Hi there."

Myella stared back at him, her expression somber, almost guilty.

His gaze narrowed. He grabbed a nearby stool. Holding his bandaged arm close, he sat down next to her. He stared intently at the silent girl. "What's wrong, Myella?" Concern flickered in him. "Do you feel okay?"

Slowly, she nodded. She swallowed hard as tears welled in her eyes. Her gaze fixed on his bandaged arm, as the tears spilled down her cheeks. "I am sorry." Her wavering voice was quiet.

John's sigh was sympathetic. "Hey, its okay." He lifted his arm slightly. "It's not as bad as it looks, really." He gently rested his arm on his lap and waited a moment, before speaking again. "Myella, look at me."

Myella reached up and wiped her wet cheeks before slowly looking at him.

He smiled slightly. "I'm just glad you're okay."

She bit her lower lip. "Because of me, you were injured. It is my fault."

He shrugged, and tried to keep things light. "Well, judging by your path to get out in the middle of the river in the first place, if Wex hadn't yelled and startled you, I'm betting you wouldn't have fallen in."

A flicker of pride showed through Myella's sorrow. "I would not have."

He smiled at her brief show of spirit. "Right." His gaze sobered. "But you shouldn't have run off like that, Myella. No matter what your problem is, running away doesn't help."

The spirit in her eyes fled, replaced with guilt. "I know that now. I am sorry."

He smiled. "I know." He shrugged. "No real harm done, and you learned something, that's the important part. Although," he arched his brows, "I imagine your parents and Kelin will have something to say about all of this."

She swallowed hard. "Yes."

"Listen to them though." John smiled tolerantly. "You put them through an awful lot. You owe them that much."

Myella bit her lower lip again as she considered his words, before she nodded slightly.

He reached up and brushed a piece of hair out of her face. "Good." He stood. "Try and get some sleep."

She nodded, her heavy eyelids drooping. She fought back for a moment and looked him straight in the eyes. "Thank you."

He took a moment to smile down at her. "You're welcome." He watched as the young girl succumbed to fatigue. His advice to her stuck in his head. No matter what your problem is, running away doesn't help. He chuckled quietly as he headed for the infirmary door. I ought to know.

"Major?"

He turned, smiling, at Carson. "Doc?" He pointed at the exit doors. "I can go, right?"

Carson smiled. "Aye, but don't over do it, and watch that arm." He pointed at the bandaged arm and gave John a warning look.

John nodded. "Right. Will do, Doc." He looked at the sleeping Myella before looking back to Carson and smiling. "Thanks, Carson."

Carson returned the smile. "Aye, glad I could help."

John nodded and left the infirmary. As he started down the hallway, a thought occurred to him. Wet by his unexpected swim, he had shed his radio when he'd reached Atlantis. Feeling a little naked without one, he took a detour from the route to the command deck and headed to his quarters.

At the threshold, he passed his hand over the door crystal and smiled as the door opened. He walked inside, stopping next to his desk to turn on a lamp. The late afternoon sun filtered through the window and added more light to the room. He looked around, noticing that everything was as he'd left it. Not that it surprised him. But somehow the room felt different. He smiled, realizing how different a person he was now than the last time he'd stood there.

Crossing to the window, his brows arched in surprise at the small, green potted plant that patiently sat there. From the top, one dark purple flower bloomed, and John shook his head. Elizabeth had given him the plant, native from the mainland, a few months back, after complaining that his quarters were "sterile." He smiled. He never thought it would last more than a week with him, but surprisingly the little plant was hardy and had thrived despite his unintentional neglect. He stuck his finger in the pot, his surprise redoubling as he felt the moist soil. He'd been gone for two months. He'd expected to see the little plant long dead. Not only was it flourishing: it had been watered.

"Now, who did that?" he wondered aloud.

"Uh, that would be me."

Startled, John turned and stared straight at the uncomfortable expression on Rodney's face. "You?"

Rodney's discomfort intensified. "Yes, well, it all started rather innocently. I lent you one of my data pads, remember?"

John thought back then nodded. "Yeah, that was before…."

"Right." Rodney pointed at him, cutting off John's reply. "Well, I needed it, and you weren't here, so I came and got it."

"Wait, I have a sensor lock on my door. How…?"

"Please!" Rodney interrupted, "I can hack that in my sleep!"

John arched a suspicious eyebrow at Rodney, but said nothing.

"Look," Rodney walked into his quarters. "I came here for my data pad and noticed the plant looked a little wilted, so I gave it some water. I've been checking on it ever since." He shrugged as he walked over and stuck his finger in the pot. "Must be my sister's influence, she always did have a green thumb, unlike me. I look at something green and it wilts. Rather surprised this little guy is still alive." He shrugged again.

"Girl." John answered.

"What?" Rodney's tone was slightly annoyed.

"Eunice." John pointed at the plant. "Her name is Eunice."

"Eunice?" Rodney's face squished in distaste. "Couldn't you come up with something better than that?"

"Hey!" John's tone turned indignant. "My grandmother's name was Eunice."

"Oh, right. Sorry." Rodney fidgeted slightly.

John smiled slightly. "Why didn't you just take it back to your quarters, instead of constantly breaking into mine?"

Rodney sighed loudly. "Haven't you been listening? I kill things like this!"

John chuckled. "So, you thought if you left it here, it stood a chance at living?"

"Exactly."

John absently brushed some dirt off the windowsill, his curiosity intensifying as Rodney fell silent. "Rodney? Did you want something?"

"Uh yeah, I guess I did." Rodney stammered.

John looked out the window and waited. Finally he arched an eyebrow at the uncomfortable scientist. "Out with it, McKay."

"Well I…." Rodney fidgeted again, before waving his hands between them. "Look, are we… okay?"

John's brows furrowed for a moment before his thoughts came together. He sighed and arched a cynical brow at Rodney. "Have we ever been 'okay'?"

"Right." Rodney sighed. "I mean, for us, you know, par for the course, are we…?"

"As far as I'm concerned," John interrupted Rodney's uncomfortable rambling, "yes, we are."

"Well, that's good because I never… I mean I wouldn't want to jeopardize…." Rodney sighed.

John had to fight to keep a smile off his face at Rodney's discomfort. "You didn't." He glanced sideways at Rodney. "Not by a long shot."

"Okay, because I think I may have, you know, stepped over the line some?"

John glanced at him. A cross between concern and discomfort, Rodney's expression held an anxious look. He really is worried, John realized. He arched an eyebrow and chuckled. "Only your real friends will tell you when your face is dirty." He held Rodney's gaze for a long moment, before once again looking out the window and over the ocean.

"Sicilian proverb," McKay responded, as he leaned one hand on the windowsill, his eyes also fixed on the vast ocean.

This time, John's chuckle was louder. "Why doesn't it surprise me you know that?"

"Huh," Rodney grunted. "That's me. Font of useless trivia."

John grinned for a moment longer, before his smile faded. "Not useless," he said quietly. All humor gone from his face, he looked at Rodney, gratitude warming his eyes.

Looking a little uncomfortable, Rodney stared back for a moment, before he shifted his weight, fidgeting slightly.

John watched Rodney. Inwardly, he felt a surge of gratitude and he dwelled for a moment on how far their friendship had come in the months since they'd arrived in Atlantis. He turned away, walked over to his desk and grabbed his radio. He looked back at Rodney. "Look, I may not have realized it at the time…." He sighed. "What I'm trying to say is, thanks," he finished, quietly.

Rodney slowly turned, faced John, and smiled. Unexpected and unusual, genuine warmth permeated his features. "You're welcome, Ma... John."

John nodded once, his mind rebelling at hearing his own first name coming from Rodney's mouth. He quickly fitted the radio over his ear, turned and headed for the door, stopped only by the doctor's voice.

"Next time, I'll be sure to duck."

A wide grin split John's lips as he looked back into the predictable, arrogant face of Rodney McKay. "Next time, I'll swing faster," he shot back, feeling the familiar banter returning to their relationship.

Rodney snorted and crossed the room to join John as they walked out into the wide hallway. "You know? Physical violence is so idiotic. Hey!" he waved his hands vigorously, "I can't think of a snappy comeback, so I'll just hit you! How positively primitive!"

John shrugged. "Yeah, well it works. If I slug you hard enough in the jaw, you might shut up."

"Oh, how unimaginative," Rodney retorted.

--------------------------------

Elizabeth looked up, a smile slowly forming on her face as Rodney and John walked towards her office, both men absorbed in a verbal sparring match. She giggled quietly as John slung a curveball at Rodney, who deftly hit it back. She shook her head. She should've known those two would patch things up almost immediately. Her thoughts settled on the unexpected and unusual relationship between her military commander and her chief scientist. Never in a million years would she have guessed that either one of them would ever be able to do more than tolerate each other, but, as she'd watched them these last few months, she'd come to realize they had more in common than either would ever admit. She arched a brow as Rodney threw his hand in the air and turned away from John.

Elizabeth's gaze switched to John as he smiled smugly and walked the remaining distance to her office.

In the doorway, he stopped, leaned on the doorframe and grinned. "McKay's mad at me."

Elizabeth's brows arched. "Already? That didn't take long."

"Nope." He sauntered in, sat down and stared back at her. He eyed the data pad on her desk warily. "That for me?"

She leaned back in her chair. "Yes, but before you get too deep into that…" her voice trailed off, hesitation derailing her train of thought.

His gaze narrowed. "What?"

She sighed. "I'm glad you're back here, but I want you to still talk with Dr. Heightmeyer some more, okay?" She watched him closely.

He drummed his fingers on his thigh as he considered her words. Finally, he sighed and nodded. "Okay. I think I can do that."

She smiled. "Good." She pushed the data pad across the desk at him. "For you."

He arched his brow and grabbed the pad. Tapping a few keys his eyes widened. "What? Did you decide to map the entire galaxy while I was gone? There must be two dozen mission reports here!"

She smiled sweetly. "Is there a problem?"

"Beyond me feeling entirely NOT needed?" He arched his brows before he looked at her, amusement sparking in his eyes. "If I was any less secure, I might be insulted, Elizabeth."

She giggled. "Relax, Major, there are still lots of addresses in the database. You'll get your shot."

He grunted and stood. "If you'll excuse me, I have some reading to do." He flashed her a mock-irritated look and left her office.

She watched him go. His stride was easy and relaxed as he crossed the command deck and disappeared down the back stairs. She sighed contently. Sure, she'd be a fool to think everything was completely right with him again, but, deep inside, her gut told her he was at least on the road towards that goal, and as long as he was, as his friend, she was happy to travel it with him.

-------------------------------

John yawned and rubbed his eye with one hand, while keeping the other on the Jumper controls as it sped along low over the ocean on the way to the mainland.

"And you chew me out for letting go of the controls!"

Rodney's annoyed statement grabbed John's attention. He smiled cynically at him. "Who's the pilot here?"

"I thought you were," Rodney snapped. "What's next? 'Look ma! No hands?'" He waved his hands vigorously.

Giving one last rub to his tired eyes, John lowered his hand and grabbed the controls. "Happy now?"

"I was merely pointing out that you felt the need to snap at me for flying one handed…."

"Okay." John interrupted. "I get the point."

"What's the matter with you anyway?" Unfazed, Rodney questioned John. "Didn't you sleep last night?"

"I was up late trying to catch up on mission reports for the last two months," John muttered. "You all have been busy while I was gone."

Rodney smiled arrogantly. "Yes, well, never let it be said we can't function without you."

"Or you." John glared at Rodney. "I've half a mind to test that theory. I could leave you on the mainland to be a farmer for a while." He flashed Rodney the most serious look he could muster over his underlying amusement.

Rodney's mouth opened to reply, before he abruptly shut it and stared intently at John for a moment. "You wouldn't?"

John cocked a cynical eyebrow at him. "Try me."

Shooting one last scathing look at John, Rodney turned and immersed himself in data readings on his laptop.

John stared forward through the windshield, watching as the ocean sped by below them. Silently, he'd kind of hoped he would be alone on this trip, but Elizabeth had decided to kill two birds with one stone, and asked… okay, ordered John to take Rodney to the Ancient outpost while they were on the mainland so the doctor could upload the botanical database and bring it back to Atlantis.

John glanced at Rodney as the mainland coast came into view. "How about I drop you at the outpost, before I go to the settlement? Just radio me when you're done."

Rodney eyed him suspiciously. "And you'll come pick me up again?"

John arched a brow. "Yes, Rodney."

"Okay."

John banked left and turned the Jumper towards the mountains. Before long he was slowly descending into the small clearing that had become their landing site. Still largely overgrown, numerous Jumper landings had beat back some of the branches, and each landing was easier than the last.

As they settled to the ground, John reached over and tapped the release for the back hatch.

Three data pads and a padded laptop case in hand, Rodney walked down the back ramp. "This shouldn't take more than an hour or so."

John looked back at him. "Fine. Just radio me when you're done, and I'll come get you."

Rodney nodded, waved, and headed off into the woods as John closed the back hatch.

-----------------------

He carefully landed just outside the Athosian settlement. He smiled as he spotted Halling and Kelin crossing the meadow towards him, before he opened the back hatch and stepped out into the bright sunshine.

He rounded the back of the Jumper and walked towards the two Athosian men. His hand resting easily on his side arm, he nodded at them. "Halling, Kelin."

"Major," Halling nodded back. "Kelin wished to speak with you, but I wanted to offer my thanks for your assistance with Myella." His gaze settled on John's bandaged left arm. "I am sorry you were injured."

John shrugged. "It's no big deal, Halling, just a rope burn. And you're welcome. I'm glad I could help. Dr. Beckett told me to tell you he'll be releasing Myella tomorrow."

"That is good news," Halling smiled. He glanced at Kelin before nodding once at John. "Pertus is with Jinto and Wex. They are hunting small game not far from here. They will return soon." Halling turned away, leaving John and Kelin alone.

Feeling the keen silence, John slowly looked at Kelin. The Athosian man's expression was thoughtful.

"You are returning to Atlantis."

John's sigh was relaxed. He smiled. "Yeah, I think its time."

Kelin nodded slowly. "As do I." He started back towards the settlement, his pace slow as John fell in next to him. "You have come a long way, John," he offered quietly.

John nodded. He swiped a blade of tall grass and chewed on one end as he walked along with Kelin. "I had a lot of help." He stopped, his abrupt action not lost on Kelin, who faced him.

"John?" Kelin questioned.

Still chewing on the blade of grass, John turned his head and looked towards the Athosian settlement for a moment. He sighed, pulled the shoot of grass from his mouth, and looked back at Kelin. "Somehow, 'thank you' doesn't seem to be enough."

Wisdom radiated from Kelin's dark eyes as he cocked his head slightly. His smile was small. "You are welcome, John." He turned and once again headed for the settlement.

John watched him a moment before trotting to catch up. "Kelin, can I ask you something?"

Kelin chucked quietly. "By now, John, you should know the answer is yes, yet you keep asking."

John chuckled in return. "True."

"What is your question?" Kelin asked.

"How did you know?" The phrase tumbled from John's mouth.

"Know what, John?" Kelin continued walking, even though his voice was slightly confused.

John shrugged. "Everything. With me, I mean… and Pertus, and…" he sighed. "Everything."

Kelin nodded slowly. He stopped abruptly, and faced John.

John stared back, his eyes narrowing at Kelin's dark expression. "Kelin?"

"I saw in you the same pain that was within me, many years ago." Kelin responded quietly.

John's jaw dropped slightly. "You?"

Kelin drew in a deep breath and looked up at the cloudless sky for a moment before once again staring at John. "My own son was taken when he was but six years old… along with my wife."

John paled. He looked away, his mind reeling. Drawing in a deep breath, he looked back to Kelin. "I had no idea."

Kelin nodded. "There are two ways to handle loss, John. Neither way do you ever forget it. But you either accept it and go on with your life, or…" Kelin's voice took on a dark note of finality, "you do not." After a moment, his somber look was broke by a small smile. "I believe you have chosen the right path, John, as did I. Although we both almost did not choose that path." Kelin squeezed John's shoulder. "There is not a day that goes by where I do not remember those I have lost, yet I continue to live my life. I believe you have found a way to do the same." Letting go of John's shoulder, Kelin again headed towards the settlement.

John watched him go for a moment, his mind still reeling. Abruptly his thoughts settled on Kelin's words. A small smile formed on John's mouth, a renewed sense of acceptance flowing through him. He jogged after Kelin, quickly catching up to him.

Pulling in a deep breath, John smiled at Kelin. "I think Pertus will like living with you."

Kelin smiled. "As do I. I have grown fond of the boy, and he and Sorbus have become quite close. They will do well together."

John bit his lower lip hesitantly. "I just hope Pertus sees that."

Kelin nodded. "He will. It may be difficult for him at first, but he will see it eventually. The boy belongs here, just as you belong on Atlantis."

John chuckled and waved his hand dismissively at Kelin's questioning look. "Funny, I told Dr. Weir the same thing."

Kelin smiled and nodded. "Your instincts are correct then. Just tell Pertus everything, and let him see reason. It will be fine."

John nodded. In silence, he walked along with Kelin to the settlement, content with the quiet companionship.

---------------------------------

John's stride was purposeful as he left the settlement and walked down a narrow path towards the ocean. A small knot of nervousness lingered in his gut, as the ocean breeze brought a salty scent to his nose and the distant sound of crashing waves to his ears. The path meandered along, before straightening and following close to the edge of a steep cliff.

He took a moment to look out over the ocean and smiled slightly at the waves as they surged over the beach far below. He continued unhurriedly along the path, nodding to himself as two figures, perched on jagged rocks in the distance, slowly turned into two boys. They looked up as he reached them, their welcoming smiles fading as mild confusion overtook them.

John abruptly realized that his appearance in Atlantean clothing, complete with vest and side arm, was not the way either of them was used to seeing him. He smiled and nodded at the first boy. "Sorbus." His expression sobered. "Can you give Pertus and me some time alone?"

Pertus' look was hesitant as he stared at John, but John's reassuring smile settled the boy.

Sorbus slid off the rock. "I must do my chores anyway." Sorbus grimaced slightly.

John's expression took on a mock serious tone. "You better get going then." He smiled as the boy nodded.

"Bye Pertus!" Sorbus stepped around John and ran down the path back towards the settlement.

Taking Sorbus' place, John slowly sat down on the rock next to Pertus. His feet set wide apart, he rested his arms on his thighs, his hands hanging loosely between his knees. He arched an eyebrow at Pertus. "You like the ocean?"

"I had never seen so much water until I came here." Pertus' voice was quiet. "Palla did not have this."

John smiled at him. "It did. Just a long way from where you lived."

"Oh."

John again gazed at the ocean. He rubbed his chin, as he tried to find a way to tell Pertus what he needed to hear. "How do you like Kelin?"

"He is very nice to me," Pertus answered quietly, "I have learned a lot from him."

John nodded. "And Sorbus?"

A smile lit Pertus' face. "He is my friend."

John fell silent again. No matter what way his mind approached the topic, there wasn't a good way to say it. Pulling in a deep breath, John plunged forward. "I'm returning to Atlantis, Pertus." He glanced at the boy and saw Pertus drop his head and swallow hard.

"I may not go back with you." Pertus' words lacked any questioning.

John pursed his lips and shook his head slightly. "You don't belong there, Pertus, any more than I belong here."

"I do not want you to go, John," Pertus whispered.

John felt his brow wrinkle at the plea he heard in Pertus' tone. Scooting over until he was next to Pertus, he wrapped his arm tightly around the boy. "I'll come visit you. A lot. I won't be far away."

Pertus' hands tightened on John's vest. "What about me?"

John smiled at him. "Kelin has asked if you would like to live with him and Sorbus." John cocked his head and made eye contact with Pertus. "Would you like that?"

Pertus bit his lip for a moment before nodding. He smiled slightly at John.

John smiled back. "Kelin will take good care of you, Pertus. He cares a lot about you. Then there's Jinto, and Wex, and Myella will be back soon. Charin and Laonid…. Then there's Korban and all the Pallans. They're all going to live here too. I think you're going to like it here… a lot."

Pertus nodded. Fear found its way into his expression and he tightened his grip on John. "What about the Wraith?" his voice shook slightly.

John's gaze sobered as he pulled Pertus closer. "I won't let the Wraith hurt you, Pertus, or anyone here. They don't know about us, but if they ever come, Atlantis isn't far away." John's expression turned reassuring and confident as he again made eye contact with Pertus. "We'll protect you, and everyone here, I promise."

Against his vest, John felt Pertus' silent nod. After a long moment, the boy pulled away, and John released his hold.

Pertus slowly smiled, the fear and pain leaving his face. "I'm going to be a hunter," he said confidently.

John grinned back. "I'll bet." He reached out, ruffling the boy's hair briefly. "And I will come visit, I promise." He put his hand on Pertus' shoulder. "Go tell Kelin you want to stay with him. I'm sure he'll be happy to hear it. So will Sorbus." Pertus stood, and John pulled his hand away, but Pertus just stood there, looking at him. "Go on," John urged.

Abruptly, Pertus threw both his arms around John's neck and held on tightly.

John smiled as he returned the embrace for a moment, before the boy pulled away. Stepping over the rocks, Pertus found the path and took off down it's winding course.

John watched him go, shaking his head at the energy. A memory came back to him, but for the first time in a long while, John embraced its effect.

John watched as Pertus raced over the well-tilled Pallan field towards him.

"Major Sheppard!" The boy's high tenor voice reached him. Pertus stumbled hard, but caught himself and continued his headlong dash towards John….

John smiled. He hadn't seen that carefree spring in Pertus' step since before the destruction of Palla. He realized that, somewhere along the way he'd helped the boy in more ways than he'd ever realized. Contentment swept through him, its warmth bringing him peace.

A cool, ocean breeze whipped up from below him, and caressed his face. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, relishing the fresh air and the tranquility he felt for the first time in a long while. He tipped his head back, allowing the warm sun to bathe his face. He'd endured so much pain and heartache in the last couple months, and somewhere along the way, he'd lost touch with himself. But, with experience, time and the help of some good friends, perspective had returned to him. No longer did his thoughts linger on the people he'd lost, but now they focused on the people he'd saved, the ones he'd helped… the lives he'd made a difference in.

Bittersweet, his memories of Brianor filled him with a warm melancholy.

"Do not lose yourself to pain, John."

He smiled. Genuine, relaxed… fond, his smile warmed him. He hadn't lost himself, although a few times he had come close. But, somewhere along the way, he had found more of himself then he knew was there, and in many ways had come through this with a better understanding of himself, and a greater wisdom for life.

Inhaling deeply, he turned and headed back for the Athosian settlement.

-------------------------------

He stood on the edge of the Athosian settlement, his pack slung loosely over his shoulder. He smiled at the group of people that stood before him. His sight turned first to the boys he'd helped mentor. "Stay out of trouble, you guys," he joked quietly. He knelt as they all gathered close around him. "Whoa, easy!" He braced himself, trying to keep from falling over as they milled around and bumped into him.

"Come back to visit?" Wex's question was echoed by each boy.

John grinned. "Yeah, I'll be back." He tousled Wex's hair briefly, and made eye contact with each boy. "Pay attention to Kelin," John paused and looked up at Kelin before looking back down at the boys. "He can teach you a lot." He stood and looked straight into the eyes of Charin.

John sighed, his small smile warm. "You remind me of my grandmother," he commented quietly, a deep respect filling his expression. He grabbed her hand and kissed the knuckles lightly. He stared intently at her. "Thank you."

Charin brought her other hand up and squeezed his. "You are welcome, John. You are welcome in my tent at any time."

John nodded. "I'll take you up on that, I promise." He released her hand and moved on.

He looked into the strong but warm expression on Halling's face. He shook his head, not really knowing what to say. "Thanks."

Halling's expression was knowing as he nodded back. "Go safely, Major."

John nodded. "And you." Slowly, John turned and stared silently at Kelin. Speechless, he let the silence between them linger.

Kelin smiled. "We have already spoken of this, my friend. You need not say more."

John shook his head. He reached out, taking Kelin's forearm in a strong grip. "Kelin, I can't…."

"Then do not," Kelin interrupted. His expression was wise and knowing as he stared John in the eye. "Words are not needed, John."

John stared back, and in an instant, knew Kelin was right. A deep respect filled him as he nodded slowly at Kelin and released his arm.

Pertus stepped around from behind Kelin and looked up at John. "Visit me too?"

John knelt. "You bet." He spread his arms and Pertus instantly embraced him. "Be good, and mind Kelin." John pulled away and stood. He smiled at Pertus as Kelin placed one hand on the boy's shoulder. He stepped back and inhaled deeply.

"Go safely, John," Kelin smiled.

John nodded back. "And you." He turned and started across the wide grassy field, his stride gaining confidence as he made his way to the Jumper.

------------------------------

"Got a minute?"

Elizabeth looked up and smiled, motioning John into her office. "Sure." Her gaze narrowed at the small, wrapped box he held in front of him as he approached her desk. Her gaze lingered on the box for a moment, before she again looked up at his face. She felt relief deep inside her at his easy and relaxed expression. The marks of tension that had lined his face since his rescue were gone, replaced with the easy-going expression she had grown to know so well. "Everything wrapped up on the mainland?"

He smiled. "Yeah, it's all good." He stopped in front of her desk and placed the box before her. "This is for you."

She furrowed her brows, but still smiled as she eyed the package. "What is it?" She looked up, her smile widening as he cocked a mischievous eyebrow at her.

"You'll see. Just open it."

She reached out, lifted the lid and peeked inside. She gently folded back the dried grasses that served as cushioning, her actions freezing as she stared at what lay within. Carefully, she lifted an elegant Athosian vase from the box. She smiled as she turned it gently in her hand. Intricate carvings spanned the circumference of the vase. The clay surface felt smooth under her soft grasp, and had been dyed a rich, deep shade of red. She looked up at John, her smile grateful. "It's beautiful, thank you."

He pursed his lips and smiled, a touch of regret crossing his face. "I uh... figured I owed you one."

She carefully laid the vase back in its box before gracing him with an understanding nod. "You don't owe me anything, John, but I appreciate the thought."

He quirked an eyebrow. "You're welcome."

She watched as he turned and headed for the door, only to pause after a few steps. He slowly turned back, his expression sober.

I'm... sorry. For everything." He pursed his lips and held her gaze.

She stared back at his uncomfortable, almost nervous expression. She drew in a deep breath, before slowly letting it out. "Don't be." She smiled warmly, allowing understanding to dominate her expression. She watched as John relaxed, a smile slowly forming on his face. He nodded once at her and silently left her office.

She watched him go, a warm relief spreading through her. Things felt right to her, and she relished the effect. For the first time in a long while, a genuinely happy grin spread across her face as she watched him disappear down the back staircase. Her heart light, she returned to her desk.

--------------------------

"Defend yourself."

John straightened, lowered his sticks and wrinkled his brow at Teyla. "I always hate it when you say that."

She arched one eyebrow. "Major?"

He grimaced. "It usually means I'm gonna get my ass kicked," he muttered.

Her expression turned slightly bemused. "Indeed."

"You didn't have to agree so easily," His voice was indignant. He sighed and lifted his sticks. "Ready when you are." He assumed a defensive stance as Teyla swiftly attacked him. Repelling her blows, his reflexes carried him through the spar. He held his own, countering each of her attacks, until Teyla stepped back and stared intently at him.

"Your skills have greatly improved, Major."

John smiled smugly. "Blame Kelin." He twirled one stick easily. "Gonna give you a run for your money now."

"Run for…?"

"Never mind," he interrupted. He raised his defenses and arched his brows confidently at her.

She stared dryly back and was still… an instant before her furious attack almost got past his defenses.

Backpedaling, he barely warded off her blows. Stepping under her attack, he spun and struck back, only to find her defensive block. She struck at him, a move he parried, before bringing his stick around and striking back. His stick met the soft flesh of her thigh with a resounding smack.

Stunned, he stepped back and stared at her as she grimaced at the sting. Sure she was okay, he smiled broadly. "Hey! That's the first time I've got you!" He kept his grin, despite her neutral expression.

"It is," she affirmed quietly. "I am not familiar with that move." Her gaze narrowed. "Nor did I expect it."

He waggled his brows. "I made it up."

Teyla stared back, a thoughtful look on her face. "Your confidence has returned, Major."

His expression sobered. "Yeah," he nodded, "I guess it has."

She lifted her sticks and circled him.

Confidence in his skills returning. his posture turned defensive as he watched her warily. Her attack came swiftly and again, he parried each of her blows. He countered a shot to his midsection but, before he could react, Teyla stepped inside his guard. A moment of dread found him, but before he could consider a counter attack, he felt his feet swept out from under him. Hitting the floor hard, he grimaced as he stared at the ceiling. "Damn." He turned his head and looked at Teyla.

Her expression was neutral, but hints of amusement colored it. "That move is my creation."

John rolled over and up onto his knees. He stared up at her, his expression slightly crestfallen. "Yep. Gonna get my ass kicked."

---------------------------------

Elizabeth looked up from her report, her eyes settling on the relaxed expression of John Sheppard, once again sitting across from her at the conference room table. Slowly, she smiled, her expression warming. Only a few months had passed, but it had been too long. Too long had his seat been empty, or filled with a different John Sheppard than the one she had come to rely on. Her gaze must've turned reflective, because a corner of John's mouth turned up in a wry, knowing smile. He nodded once, as if he knew what she was thinking.

Elizabeth had the decency to blush slightly. She looked away briefly, before her eyes once again found his. She nodded slightly, and pulled in a deep breath as Rodney, Aiden and Teyla walked into the conference room. "Rodney?" Elizabeth smiled at the Canadian doctor. "What's on the agenda for today?"

Author's Notes

I'd like to send out a huge thanks to SandySheppard, MindDweller, Wraithette, TanaquiSGA and Mgosche. Without your encouragement and support I don't know if I would've ever finished this story. Thank you for being a sounding board for my ideas, brainstorming, tolerating my bellyaching when things weren't going so well, offering your honest opinions and just being supportive (even if it meant giving me a kick in the butt to get going! ;) ) Thanks for all your insights on Sheppard and for the interesting conversations we had about him! ((Hugs!!))

I'd also like to thank Erinmore, Jedi40, Prmess and LavenderBlue. Thank you so much for all your help and encouraging words!

SGAFan