Teyla Emmagan patiently applied the finishing touches to Elizabeth's make up, observing the normally contained diplomat fidgeting restlessly, whilst sitting on the chair within her quarters. The Athosian smiled knowingly, and placed a comforting hand on Elizabeth's shoulder. She could see that her friend was making a poor attempt at hiding her anxiety of what the day ahead meant to her. "Elizabeth, everything is going very well so far. John has devoted all his time and energy into ensuring everything is perfect, so much so that he has almost driven Dr McKay to distraction.

Dr Weir frowned, clearly not convinced. "That's exactly what I'm worried about. Tell me again. Why… did I agree to leave the preparation for something as important as today in the hands of those two? They only have to look at something and it spells disaster."

Teyla winced realising the truth of these words, having been present more often than not during some dire circumstances they team found themselves in. It was nearly always down to some mishap or understanding on the part of either Dr McKay or Colonel Sheppard; something they denied avidly.

"I can't see how that will be a problem," replied Teyla with conviction. Not with all the hard work everyone has put in to making today a success. Coming to stand in front of her, the Athosian commented softly," This is their gift to you Elizabeth – a way of making amends."

At her words, Elizabeth eyes filled with tears. Teyla went to her and put an arm around her shoulders. "Please don't...don't worry yourself so. It will be alright."

Looking up through a mist of tears, Elizabeth gave a wan smile, "I should be ashamed. After all they've done, all I do is criticise them. What will they think of me?" Her spirit seemed to return. "John certainly had Rodney on his toes though. In fact, I recall nearly everyone getting orders thrown at them." She smirked, "I imagine many will be giving John a wide berth for a few days after this is over."

Returning the smirk Teyla recalled the determination John has shown over the past month. She understood his almost fanatical attention to detail; everything had to be perfect for his future wife. After all the pain and humiliation she had endured through the long previous months, he wanted to turn her thoughts to the happier times that were awaiting them. Today was to be the start of that.

"Well, I have to say he has surprised not only me, but others also. John's dedication to creating a day that will forever stand out in the history of this city, has earned him a warm place in the heart of all those that reside on Atlantis, the same can't be said for Rodney unfortunately."

"It's just his way. Underneath all the gruff and bad temper is a totally different Rodney McKay. He just doesn't allow that side of him to surface very often. Atlantis would be a sorry place without him though... I for one have a soft spot for him."

"I also have affection for him, as does Ronan, although he would not say so. His actions speak for him were words do not" Teyla replied courteously.

The two woman lapsed into silence each taken up with their own thoughts.

Teyla's thoughts went back to not long before; back to the time Elizabeth returned to Atlantis, exonerated of all wrong doing....

The Athosian had discretely watched over Elizabeth since her return. She was appalled at her own previous treatment of Dr Weir and was determined to make it up to her. Anyone who either knowingly or unwittingly said something that cause suffering for the Doctor would feel the sharp edge of Teyla Emmagan's tongue. The normally quiet and gentle Athosian would quickly turn into a force to be reckoned with if the occasion warranted it. More than one person had left her company feeling thoroughly chastised.

So when Elizabeth started regaining some of her former self – her love for Atlantis along with its people and her gentle yet courageous spirit – Teyla felt alive with not only happiness, but relief also, for she knew now her friend would survive and once again become the leader she had been.

John's role in her recovery could not be faulted either; his devotion to his fiancée showing no limitations. With his support and the allowance of time, Elizabeth would finally lay her many ghosts to rest. That however was still somewhere in the future.

To anyone else, on the surface at least, the couple looked to have conquered all of their fears. Teyla, knowing them better than most, was under no such elusion, for they were masters at disguising their feelings. Elizabeth especially, needed protecting from herself. She'd always been good at giving but not taking, shrinking away from those who only wanted to befriend and care for her. She had improved greatly since coming to Atlantis and encircled herself in the tender care of those she was closest to, namely John and his team. She still did her utmost to deflect anything that would affect her standing as a leader, never wanting to show any signs of weakness fearing it would be used against her.

Teyla has spoken of it during one of her frequent conversations with Elizabeth's mom. Rose had confided that this trait had existed in Elizabeth from an early age, causing her mom much despair. She immersed herself in situations no one else would undertake - never minding the consequences. This was nearly always magnified by her daughter's refusal to discuss her feelings and worries, instead keeping them to herself, where they would bubble away under the surface.

Teyla remembered the tears present in Rose's eyes when she spoke of the overwhelming relief she had felt, when she realised her daughter had at last found that special person who could penetrate the barrier her daughter had built; that person was John.

She had a deep regard for Rose, Elizabeth's last living parent. Only in her company, could Teyla find the kind of guidance that had been lost to her since the death of her beloved. John also felt a great deal of affection for Rose and they had taken great comfort in one another's company during the early days of uncertainty.

It was this developing trust that gave him the confidence to confide in both Teyla and Rose the periods of depression that often still plagued Elizabeth.

Elizabeth successfully hid this from all but a few, going about her daily duties as if it were just another day. Only those closest to her noticed her sudden shiver of fear, or the black shadow's under her eyes that marked a night of lost sleep. During these times John never left her side, would be extra vigilant and offer the comfort and support needed to assist her through the dark days.

Therefore, when John himself needed someone to confide in, it was Teyla and Rose he turned to. In their company, he would receive the assurance he needed; their comforting words giving him the strength to continue.

Teyla felt thankful for the development of this trust; happy in the knowledge the John, as well as Elizabeth, had someone to turn to when things became so difficult they couldn't undertake it singlehandedly.

Teyla wasn't the only one whose mind was occupied.

Elizabeth couldn't put the worry of the upcoming ceremony to rest. Her mind was over flowing with things that could go wrong - mainly of her doing. I can't do this, why did I let myself be convinced that I could?

The thought of walking down between two rows of people staring at her was terrifying. She would rather be facing the goa'uld delegation again than doing this. She clenched her fists trying to compose herself. As she sat with her head in her hands she began to feel as if she were slowly being encased in a strange feeling of tranquillity. Just for a moment she was sure she heard a gently whisper in her ear, the soft tones of someone she had not seen in a very long time, but who remained for ever a part of her. The person who had shaped the being she was today, her father.

She felt the years rolling away until once again she was a shy ten year old, the apple of her father's eye. She was back up on the stage about to commence her first recital... that was until she'd looked out into the crowd and froze with terror. Her legs had turned to jelly and her hands shaking so much, that the manuscript she held almost fluttered to the ground.

Her father had been her saviour, for on seeing the terrified expression on his daughter's face, he had stood up from the midst of the audience, drawing Elizabeth's attention to him. His expression had not been one of disappointment but of love and encouragement. That alone gave her the strength to continue and the confidence that had recently deserted her came flooding back. Her performance had astounded and mesmerised everyone present, but it was the ecstatic grin of her father, his eyes burning with pride that had given her the most joy.

It was her father's continued belief in her that had secured her future as a diplomat. Her greatest disappointment was her father hadn't lived to reap the reward of his daughter's successful career.

But maybe, just maybe, he had found away to remain part of it for ever present if not in body then in spirit.

Elizabeth smiled he would have got on so well with John – after he had satisfied himself of John's integrity that is. She realised although her father could no longer be there for her, she still had someone with the same strengths and qualities. With John she would blossom once again. Her future husband would be forever present, encouraging her to reach out and take back the strength and confidence she had lost, just as her father had done for that frightened child so many years ago.

.

A soft smile lit up her face as she thought of what lay ahead with him. It wouldn't be plain sailing, but then that's what she loved about him, and life would never become mundane. She heaved a sigh as she felt the ache of longing. They had only been apart for one day and one lonely night, yet already she ached for the scent and feel of him; for the brush of his lips against her ear as he whispered comforting words meant only for her.

Why had she allowed herself be talked into spending their last evening as single people in the company of their own friends?

Mind... it had been fun; Elizabeth laughed aloud startling Teyla, who gave her a confused look.

"It's okay Teyla, I'm just thinking back to the fun of last night."

The Athosian smirked, "Yes it was a good night. The men are not the only ones who know how to have a good time."

"And we didn't need drink to make it so." Elizabeth commented smugly.

"Well... not much anyway... just enough to enhance the taste" Teyla unsuccessfully tried to hide the sly grin that insisted on plastering itself all over her face.

Elizabeth stared at Teyla in astonishment. "What? You mean the so called non-alcoholic punch was actually laced with alcohol?"

Teyla had the grace to look slightly ashamed "Just enough to make every one relax and enjoy themselves."

"I'm so dead," groaned Elizabeth. "Especially if certain people found out. Carson will have me confined to either the infirmary or my quarters."

"We will not mention it then," snorted Teyla. "Can you imagine John's reaction? Sorry John Elizabeth cannot marry you today- Oh why not replies John – because... Carson has locked her in her bedroom for being a naughty girl."

Both women collapsed into hysterics.

"Okay, no telling Carson please!" giggled Elizabeth.

Teyla took a deep breath, trying to suppress a fresh wave of giggling hysterics. "I would not dream of it. Maybe he will be worse anyway. Talking of which, I wonder what kind of night they had. I warned Ronon the consequences he faced if he did not take care of John and bring him back in one piece. They should be returning shortly."

Elizabeth looked apprehensive "Why did I agree to allow them to stay overnight? What if they get stranded?"

"Frowning, Teyla scolded her friend. "Elizabeth will you stop worrying? Nothing will prevent John from being here for the wedding. Now sit back and relax while I finish your hair, or it will be sticking up in places you do not want."

Elizabeth sighed, but remained quiet. She couldn't prevent herself from dwelling on the topic, however. Any kind of catastrophe could occur, stranding them on the mainland with no way back.

Oh she didn't doubt they'd had every intention of arriving back as arranged, but where John was concerned, nothing ever went as it should.

Sulking, Elizabeth knew even when they did arrive back she was forbidden from seeing John until she joined him for the taking of their vows. She needed to see him, to reassure herself he would be their waiting. Not for the first time she wondered how different her life would be if had not come to find her that day, but instead had returned to Atlantis. Would he have been lost to her forever or was it their destiny to be together, sooner or later?

She shivered with fear. If he hadn't been there, what would have become of her? She wouldn't have survived the pain, or the horror her memories threw at her without John's comforting presence. They would have remained foremost in her mind, never giving her a minute's peace until finally they broke her for good.

Too late, she realised, she had done herself no favours dwelling on things that hadn't happened. Instead what she had succeeded in doing was inducing a bout of anxiety. She found it increasingly difficult to breathe as the feeling overwhelmed her. Knowing she was just being foolish did nothing to stem the flow of fear.

She struggled to remember words of comfort John uttered when he was with her in moments such as this. Gradually the feeling started to subside as she envisioned John comforting her - almost feeling his loving embrace.

Teyla had also noticed the change in Elizabeth and was looking at her in concern.

Crouching down beside her friend, whilst still mindful of her own dress, Teyla grasped the frightened woman's hand. "Elizabeth something's wrong, what is it?"

Although remaining silent for a moment, Elizabeth finally replied in a voice barely audible. "I'll be fine, just give me a minute."

"Elizabeth, I can see you are not fine," replied Teyla firmly.

Acknowledging the truth in the words, Elizabeth heaved a sigh before answering. "I shouldn't be feeling like this. Not today of all days Teyla. I should be happy; thinking only of marrying John."

Teyla took the distraught woman into her arms. "It's understandable Elizabeth. Your emotions are all over the place thinking of what is to come. You need to remember thought you have nothing to fear. Think only of the picture of beauty John will be presented with, as you float gracefully down the aisle."

Elizabeth couldn't help from replying soulfully. "Not if I trip over my feet and fall flat on my face before I reach him."

Teyla looked shocked for a moment then burst out laughing.

Elizabeth glowered, clearly not happy her friend was finding the thought of her demise funny, but a sudden vision of the shocked expression on the faces of those present, especially John's, was the medicine she needed. Her fears were soon forgotten as both women became doubled up with laughter. It took many a long minute before they regained their composure and became engrossed one again in repairing the damage done to Elizabeth's make up with their bouts of hilarity.

A knock at the door announced the arrival of General Jack O'Neill.

"Elizabeth it's time we…" he came to an abrupt halt. The sight before him robbed him of all speech; his expression full of admiration. He had never seen Elizabeth as stunning as she was today.

Her dress was breath taking, hugging her curves to perfection, before flowing down to the floor in folds of material, which highlighted her elegant figure to the fullest. Jack knew the cream material was Athosian, and was Teyla's gift to her dear friend. The dress had been specially designed for Elizabeth by a friend of Teyla, as was the lace and crystal tiara.

"Elizabeth! Wahoo! You certainly clean up well. You'll have John trembling at the knees when he catches sight of you."

The diplomat blushed in embarrassment at the compliment.

"Say...What if some hefty alien carried him off? I could always take his place at the altar. What do you say? Come on, surely you would rather have someone with a bit of sophistication?" Jack brushed his jacket, preening himself. "I've years of experience, compared to some flyboy, who's still wet behind the ear?"

The corner of Elizabeth's mouth twitched, "Somehow, I can't see Colonel Sheppard going for that idea. What about Colonel Carter? Do you really want her wrath unleashed on us?" The diplomat sobered slightly. "Incidentally Jack, I'm glad Sam was able to come today. She's become a good friend. I've always felt she bore a grudge -resented me in some way." Shaking her head, she sighed deeply, "But who can blame her? Especially after the way I was suddenly commanding your chair, with no word of warning, and you were gone. The loss of General Hammond, then yourself in such a short space of time, must have been exceptionally hard to face, For SG1 especially. To find themselves, not only with some diplomat they didn't know, but who to top it all wasn't even military... well... that must have felt like the final nail in the coffin." She placed a hand on the front of his lapel, as he tried to butt in. "Let me finish Jack."

Jack looked for a moment, like he was about to argue, but stopped himself, nodding his head for her to continue.

She acknowledged him with a soft smile. "You see, as far as they were concerned Jack, I was the one responsible for the breakup of what had become a very close knit team. Although you were already out of the field and installed as General within the SGC, you were still very much on the scene. My arrival however, put an end to that. Your time within the SGC became more infrequent, causing resentment from those closest to you."

Playing with the gold bracelet John had given her, she smiled. "Now however, we thankfully seem to have put our past problems to rest. Instead of the cold shoulder there is only warmth. You know Jack, Sam has been such a tremendous help, something I can't thank her enough for. So you see it wouldn't have felt right, if she couldn't be present today."

O'Neill laughed in good humour. "Do you really think I, or anyone else for that matter, had any choice in the matter? It was either that or endure a never ending ear bashing."

"Poor Jack you really have a hard life," she smirked. "Bye the way have you seen John? Has… has he arrived back yet and in one piece, from the Athosian mainland? I haven't seen him since yesterday morning."

"So they kept their promise, and kept you both apart," Jack replied with an evil grin.

"Jack it's not funny," Elizabeth huffed, as she sat down heavily on the chair. "What if he's changed his mind? Last night will have been the first night he's had on his own in ages. Maybe he's realised that things are moving along a tad too quickly for him." Elizabeth's voice became barely a whisper, with Jack only just managing to catch what she was saying. "What if he wants more time, or decides married life isn't for him? What will I do then, Jack?"

"Elizabeth Weir, stop tormenting yourself. The Colonel doesn't give the impression he's being forced into any such thing. That goofy smile he's turning on everyone, is proof enough. Now are you up for this, or do I have to carry you kicking and screaming to the altar?"

"Jack," Elizabeth gasped. "You'll do no such thing."

"Why not! Can you imagine the guests' reactions to that? What?" He grinned at the shocked expression on her face "Don't you think it would be comical? Just imagine their faces!"

"Don't you dare, Jack O'Neill," she growled. "Don't even think about it."

The delighted grin on O'Neill's face soon had her collapsing with fits of laughter. "You certainly believe in making grand entrances Jack; however I can't see it doing your back any good."

Elizabeth jumped up suddenly and startled the poor General, before making him flush with embarrassment, as she embraced him in a huge hug. "Oh Jack I've got so much to thank you for. I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for you. You will always be my closest and dearest friend. I'll miss you when you return home."

Jack coughed to hide his embarrassment, patting Elizabeth awkwardly on the back. "Miss me... can't see you having any time for that, not if the Pegasus galaxy has any say in the matter. Just think; it's probably at this moment devising some new and devious situations to entice you into. So take it from me, make the most of the free time you've got left, because I guarantee, you'll only be back on active duty for five minutes, before you'll be tearing your hair out or stamping your feet in frustration."

"Talking about active duty General" Elizabeth asked hopeful of hearing some good news "Certain rumours have been filtering through the stargate."

"And what would these rumours be?" drawled Jack guardedly, but Elizabeth hadn't spent years being a negotiator for nothing.

"Don't try to play ignorant, General." She scolded him sternly.

"Oh... Well I might have heard the odd rumour. What was it now?" Glancing sideways, he smirked at the not so amused woman. "Now... what was it I heard again? Oh yes, I think it was a certain Dr. Elizabeth Weir was going to be offered the position, previously held by her, with stipulations of course and only if I thought this said diplomat, was fit enough to resume the position. There was one other rumour... what was it again? Oh yes I remember... another stipulation was this Dr. Weir was given permission to allow someone, by the name of a Colonel Sheppard, to continue and assist her, although she was to have the final say in any non-military decisions. Could that possibly be one the rumours floating around?"

"Oh Jack." Elizabeth was shaking with emotion. I can't thank you enough."

"So much for my announcement at the wedding speech," Jack moaned. He stopped short, as Elizabeth's face clouded over, and the look of regret she displayed, tore at his heart.

"As much as I'm looking forward to taking back my office, I'm scared how John will handle being on Atlantis, while his team are out risking their lives without his back up. What if he regrets his decision? John is military and thrives on the excitement of his off world exploits. To rob him of this choice may alienate him. I couldn't bear it if our relationship fell apart because of it."

The General grasped her shoulders, turning her to face him. He couldn't help feeling thankful, that this kind and gentle soul had not only survived, but now had the chance of some well deserved happiness. He also knew, having had this conversation with the Colonel previously, that as much as he would miss going off world, John realised where his place was from now on. He would never be able to fulfil his job to the best of his ability. Elizabeth came first, and always would. He felt happier, more content, knowing he would always be near at hand, to ensure she remained safe.

"Elizabeth, will you stop feeling guilty? Do you really think Sheppard would be happy, going off world and leaving you behind now? Okay, I'm not saying it will be smooth sailing, but that's life in general; we all make sacrifices from time to time. If I can handle standing in the background whilst SG1 go off world, then Sheppard will handle it just as well with his own team."

"But…" Elizabeth started.

He interrupted her. "No 'buts,' Elizabeth. The Colonel knows how things are. He's adjusting well."

She sighed, but knew he was being truthful.

"Now onto the other subject Elizabeth; you're fellow Atlanteans. Have they been treating you well? You know, you only have to say the word, and anyone who is not treating you as they should... well let's just say... it's been a while since I knocked a few heads together."

"General O'Neill! You can't go around assaulting the people of Atlantis, just because they may look at me in some manner you deem insulting. Anyway, everyone has been very understanding and courteous, including Colonel Caldwell!"

"Just watch me...." Jack stopped, stunned for a moment, "Steven's being pleasant you say? Well that's a turn up for the book."

"I don't know whether he regrets encouraging Simon..." just the sound of his name passing her lips made her feel ill."But he has been exceptionally caring and attentive since John and I returned. He even appears to be more respectful towards John. He and Carson have also become quite friendly also."

"What Dr. Beckett and Colonel Caldwell are best buddies? What on earth have the two of them in common? I swear it's this city, there's..."

"General are you being derogative towards my city?" asked Elizabeth, her eyebrow raised in a gesture he had become increasingly familiar with. Its meaning could signal so many things, depending on the tone and posture displayed, by the woman in question.

"Dr. Weir would I ever?" O'Neill replied with a wry smile.

She shook her head slowly, sometimes she despaired him. Her voice took on a more serious tone as she continued however. "Seriously Jack... despite my reservations and fears, about how my return would be perceived, everyone has gone the extra mile to make me feel welcome."

"And why wouldn't they?" He interjected. "They've only treated you as you deserve."

"But don't you see Jack?" Dr. Weir replied as she fidgeted with the pearls her Mum had given as 'something borrowed.' "Any doubts, or dissatisfaction, that even a couple of people displayed, regarding the discharge of my guilt, could have had a huge impact on the way things are executed here on Atlantis. It only takes one cog to be out of alignment, for the running and tranquillity to come crashing down around our ears. I've been the cause of that once, I couldn't bear it if I caused it a second time."

Jack could see she was close to tears. Not what he wanted for her, especially not today. Gently clasping her delicate hands within his own, he pulled her closer to him. "Elizabeth Weir, look at me. Get rid of any thoughts that you have, which say you are in any way responsible for past events."

She flashed him an anguished smile "I sort of realise that now Jack. But it's because I'm getting stronger. When it was first mentioned, about returning to Atlantis and indeed when we first returned, I was still finding myself again, still grasping at things I had given up for lost. Remember, I still was under the belief that the rest of my life was going to be spent in a wheelchair. I was worried about how people would react; what if they felt I was a liability, a liability Atlantis could well do without? And do you know, what was hardest part Jack? Not letting on to John how I was really feeling. He was so happy that we were being allowed to return; how could I spoil that for him?"

"He would have understood Elizabeth, don't under estimate him. Your happiness makes him happy. You have to be truthful with him, though, at all times."

"I know, and I did tell him eventually. He was the one who made me see my fears were all in my head. People were waiting, willing to accept me once again as a part of this very large family, but I, however, had to allow them access and disperse with the barriers I had unwittingly surrounded myself with. Once I was able to do that, Jack, I knew I was finally home where I belonged."

"Don't knock your own determination, Elizabeth, you have shown the strength of your personality and sheer willpower and used them to overcome immense odds."

"I couldn't have done it alone though, Jack."

"No, but then no one should have to battle alone. There's always someone waiting to pick you up, to point you in the right direction. For you, it was John and your friends; you thought they had deserted you, but they came through for you when you needed them most." Jack shook his head, as he observed the tears glistening in her eyes, threatening to escape. "And we'll have none of that today. Your mum will never forgive me if I escorted you down the aisle with black streaks running down your cheeks."

"Jack," sniffed Elizabeth. Desperately she fought to hold back the tears.

"Right, come on. Stop looking back to the past but instead look ahead, to what the bright future holds for you," his tone was soothing as he embraced her gently. "Now, if we don't get you safely delivered to John, pronto, we'll have all of Atlantis threatening me with body harm." A hasty glance, showed a much happier Dr. Weir, much to his relief.

A light knock on the door signalled Teyla's return. She had slipped, silently, out of the room, to allow the two friend's time to talk in private. Now, however, it was time to remind them time was fast approaching for the ceremony to begin.

Jack motioned to the Athosian. "Do you need time to pick faults or can we get this show on the road?"

"No. Both Dr. Weir and I are ready, as is Colonel Sheppard. Ronon, though, is threatening the Colonel with some serious harm, if he does not settle down. It is probably for the best that we make our way to the ceremony before he carries out his threat."

"I can bet McKay isn't helping the situation any!" replied O'Neill with an expression of disdain.

Elizabeth scolded him. "Don't be nasty Jack, Rodney is lovely. You need to know how to handle him, that's all. Atlantis wouldn't be the same without him. The situations he has rescued us from..."

"Don't forget the disastrous situations he has single handily caused. Remember that solar system, for instance." Jack reminded her.

"And can you say, you have never been responsible for situation that... let's say... didn't quite go according to plan, Jack O'Neill?"

Jack coughed gruffly but refrained from answering. He did however; throw both women a glare, which sent Elizabeth, especially, into fits of laughter. "Oh Jack. You can be a right old misery sometimes," Elizabeth giggled.

"I'm nothing of the sort. In fact, I'm actually a very tolerant kind of a guy."

"Sure Jack."

"Anyway, Miss Emmagan, if you get one side of our bride, I'll get the other..."

"No way Jack!" growled Elizabeth, "I can do this on my own."

He gave her a stern look. "Doctor's orders Lizzie; we assist you until we reach the door to the function hall. Then, you walk the short distance yourself, where John will be waiting for you. That was the stipulation, placed by Carson, as well you're aware."

She huffed in a very unDr. Weir-like fashion, but knew she wouldn't win this one. Damn Carson with his mother hen attitude. She grumbled, but allowed them to take an arm a piece. Suddenly she stopped, remembering something. "General O'Neill! What did you just call me?"

"Lizzie, what's wrong with that? Your Mum was filling me in on how you loved the name Lizzie."

"When I was 8!" Staring at him menacingly, she continued in a low tone. "You know it stopped rather sharply after that. Always wondered if it had something to do with the boy's nose I broke...accidentally, of course." Elizabeth grinned slyly. "These things can happen when you're not looking were you're going. So, in the process of trying to stop myself from falling, my fist somehow came in contact with the nose of the very person I tripped over. I did assure them it was nothing to do with the same boy calling me names, Lizzie being one of them. Did seem to me at the time they appeared a trifle sceptical, but well that's life... So you were saying Jack?"

"Okay I get the picture," moaned Jack, subconsciously touching his nose, muttering, 'time to get her off my hands. Better warn poor Sheppard, though.'

"What was that Jack?" Elizabeth asked, and then laughed when he threw her a dirty look.

"Come. We should be going," Teyla reminded them and though equally as amused, she managed to guide them out the door.

Sheppard glanced round, giving a courteous nod to the newly arrived guests. The room was slowly filling with people as they took their places on the seats, which had been arranged for the wedding ceremony.

He sighed nervously, subconsciously squirming in his chair. This, he was sure, was the most nerve racking experience of his complicated life so far. Give him a Wraith to fight, or fly a puddle jumper through a stargate surrounded by blazing guns and he would tackle it with relish. But this, this was something different, and to top it all, he couldn't even sit in comfort, as his uniform scratched him no matter what way he sat. Dress blues. There was only one place he liked to see them and that was hanging in his wardrobe out of sight. He wore them to please Elizabeth though. She said they made her weak at the knees; she'd even told him once, dreamily that, he looked ever so sexy in them.

Mind you, if it meant repeating today for the rest of his life, just so he could have Elizabeth at his side, he would do so gladly, no questions asked.

She was the best thing that had ever happened to him. From the minute she came across him in the Antarctica control chair, something special had ignited between them. Although both were aware of it, they didn't recognise it for what it was to become. It was just a connection, awareness that together they could create something wonderful.

'Oh, if only I could stop the nauseous feeling in my stomach.' He sighed again, crossing a leg over his knee. He felt like springing up and taking off at a gallop. The guests however, wouldn't be particularly impressed if they observed the groom absconding as if the devil himself were in hot pursuit.

An exasperated groan came from the side of him, "Sheppard!" A quick glance to his right showed Dr, Rodney McKay grumbling as he rubbed his ankle. "What was that for?"

"What was what for?"

"You just kicked me in the shin; I'll have a dirty big bruise there tomorrow. Oh! I think I'll need to see Carson, feels like..."

"McKay, stop whinging, I never laid a finger on you."

"Did too."

"Did not."

"Did..."

"McKay," barked John, his eyes narrowing and irritation evident in his expression. 'Why the hell did I pick McKay to be best man again?'

Falling silent, Rodney knew, by the tone of Sheppard's voice, not to continue with the topic. Years of spending so much time in the company of the man in question, had taught him when he had breached the line. Now was such a time.

Drawing in a deep breath, Sheppard turned to sit sideways in the chair, so he had McKay in his vision. He was aware he was in danger of making Rodney the scapegoat for the many emotions raging through his head.

"Look... uh... sorry."

"Forget it Sheppard, I can see how hard you're finding this. You're... you don't have any regrets... about Elizabeth... or...ugh this marriage thing?

"No," replied Sheppard his tone soft, "but what if Elizabeth does?"

"What? Why on earth would she have any regrets?"

"I don't know, possibly the fact she had time on her own last night, time to think."

"From what Teyla was saying, Elizabeth seems..." he yelped and glared at Sheppard with a sour expression.

"You've spoken to Teyla," replied John, ignoring the look. "When... Where was Elizabeth?"

"No." McKay nervously licked his lips. "Ronon was speaking to her; she slipped out quietly to allow Jack some time with Elizabeth."

"Oh. Elizabeth, how was she?"

"Didn't hear a lot, just she's a bit nervous, but Teyla said this was understandable. She was bragging of what a great success their girl's night had been." McKay smirked, clasping his hands in front of him. "They weren't the only ones though. Don't you think our night went equally as well?"

Stealing a quick glance at McKay, John smirked. "It looked as if you were having a good time anyway. Ronon was all set to stuff a gag in your mouth until you fell off the seat in a drunken stupor."

"I was never drunk," retorted McKay, indignantly. "It was my blood sugar. The food was finished and no one could come up with as much as a power bar,"

"Sure McKay." Smiling, his nervousness was forgotten for an instant, Sheppard thought back to the previous night. He couldn't fault his friends. That had been one hell of a party. Thankfully, he wasn't suffering too much from the after effects this morning. The thought of Elizabeth's wrath if he had shown up to their wedding the worse for wear, well... that would have been enough to sober him up anyway.

Oh... Elizabeth... how was she truly feeling? Was she as equally nervous as him? Dr. Weir, who on the surface gave a wonderful display of being calm, whilst underneath, her mind would be in turmoil.

Only with John did the diplomat open up; unloading feelings and fears she had kept locked inside. Not wanting to appear as anything but the strong capable leader that Atlantis needed. She felt that if she showed any signs of weakness, or emotional instability, then it would give them the proof they longed for. Proof that she wasn't fit to be a commander.

John was aware of how they questioned her decisions, looking for a scapegoat if anything went wrong, even if she'd simply followed orders given by them in the first place... If she was reinstated, once Carson declared her fit for active duty and that's what they were lobbying for, John would make sure she was protected from the pressure until she was better equipped to deal with their demands.

The Atlanteans, Sheppard knew, would welcome their former leader back with open arms. Especially now they realised, the wrong they had done her. Everyone remembered how it had been in the city, before everything went bad, before John and his team forced Elizabeth out of her city. Now they wanted things to revert to how they'd been previously. As much as Colonel Carter had greatly earned their respect, for single handily pulling the city back from the brink of destruction, she was military and the civilians in Atlantis felt happier with a civilian leader. After all, as they stated - they already had a military leader, in Colonel Sheppard.

It was difficult to get Elizabeth to relax and let go of some of her reservations. For her it was like changing a lifetime of behaviour. She had explained the difficulties she faced when they had grown closer and he had commented on the need for her to relax and work on building some close friendships within Atlantis.

Sheppard had listened closely, as she explained how her career had rested on her ability to remain reserved and aloof, not allowing the opposition the ability to read her thoughts and feelings. She had brokered and come out victorious, from many treaties, because of her ability to carry this off effectively. It had meant that her way of life often left her lonely and out of touch with the real world. Although there were times when she longed to share her day's experience, or occasionally yearned for some fun in her life, she pushed these feelings aside. She alone had picked her life's path, now her goal was to succeed no matter what she had to sacrifice on the way. Until, as she explained to John, Atlantis came along and brought with it a man with a mop of unruly black hair, blowing her self-imposed isolation into a million tiny pieces.

Seeing the many friendships blossoming and the individual groups that formed, while she stood alone, looking down on their happiness, made Elizabeth realise what she missed and yearned for. The problem was that, she'd spent so long detaching herself from such relationships, knowing where to start, to change a habit of a life time, was among one of the hardest things she had ever undertaken.

John remembered that moment of recognition, of seeing her standing looking on, trying to hide the sadness she felt. After all hadn't he been the same, not so long ago, before Atlantis? He knew then what he needed to do, even if it meant showing her how. And why not, after the chance she had taken with him? So he had shown her how to reach out and he had reached back, so that soon she found what the joy of friendship, of belonging, really meant.

It was John's team she had become particularly close to. They, in return, protected her with a fierce loyalty. Teyla, herself being a leader of her people, helped to break down the final barriers that Dr. Weir had erected. She had finally realised she could be Dr. Elizabeth Weir, diplomat and Expedition leader, but also be Elizabeth Weir, who enjoyed the occasional movie night and woman's poker night without one interfering with the other.

John had felt immensely proud, when she had explained all this to him. Proud they had broken through her shell, showing they cared, but also proud that Elizabeth, herself, had shown the courage and strength to overcome a lifetime of conditioning. His admiration for her that day had shown no boundaries and even to this day, she continued to surprise him with things she fought to overcome, and situations she graciously accepted.

John was sharply brought out of his thoughts, by McKay nudging him, smiling triumphantly. "Told you Sam would be back in time for today."

"What? Get it right McKay! You were the one griping because she had gone on a visit to the SGC. I was the one who said she would be back today."

"Uh... well, whatever... she's here, so she'll be able to dance with the best looking man here."

"Sorry he'll already be a married man by then."

"What are you on about Sheppard...?" He shook his head when he noticed the smirk on the Colonel's face. "Not everything is about you, now me for instance..."

Smiling triumphantly, John bluntly retorted, "so you going to tell that to O'Neill?"

"What's he got to do with anything?" McKay scoffed, giving the Colonel an icy stare.

"Probably the fact he'll want to monopolise her attention himself,"

A strong arm grasping him put a stop to the conversation. John suddenly found himself struggling for breath, as the large Satedan squeezed the life out of him, a wicked grin on his face.

"Sheppard, how you doing?"

"Easy Chewie, Elizabeth won't be happy if you damage her prize possession."

Ronon laughed, but stepped back to reveal the elegant and beautifully dressed Mrs Weir. Despite her advancing years, there was still an air of self-assertive grace about her. John knew he was looking at a future picture of Elizabeth, for there were many striking similarities. Pictures of Mrs Weir in her younger days, always made him do a double take; the likeness to his Elizabeth was so uncanny.

"Gentleman," she gave them an approving nod, "You both look very handsome." She turned to John. "You'll do my daughter proud, son."

"How's Elizabeth... You've see her?" Sheppard stuttered.

"Relax John. She's fine and evidently as worried about things as you. And I'll tell my soon to be son-in-law the same thing I told my daughter. This day will always remain special to you both so relax and enjoy it."

Stretching a hand outwards, she told him with enthusiasm, "wait until you see the vision of beauty that is soon to walk gracefully down that isle; your nerves will be replaced by pride and longing. So, content yourself with that thought. It won't be much longer. Mind you, although my daughter is a stickler for time keeping, it is the bride's prerogative to be fashionably late, so be prepared. I think you will also be pleasantly surprised, by something she has kept a secret... especially for today."

"What?" John looked confused. "What do you mean?"

"Just wait and see." She soothed, but smiled secretly to herself. They had taken many steps to ensure this was kept quiet, even though they all knew Elizabeth was bursting to confide in John. Elizabeth had been practising hard, determined, that when the day was upon her she would walk down the aisle without the assistance of a hand at her elbows, or a stick in her hand. She wanted to start married life walking, by John's side.

As the music started up they all knew it was about to begin. The path to their married life was set. As the guests stood to acknowledge the arrival of the bride, the murmurs faded until not a sound could be heard.

Dr. Elizabeth Weir walked slowly down the aisle; her beauty glowing outwards and captivating every eye in the room. Her smile shone so brightly, that everyone felt warmed by it.

John found himself mesmerised by the sheer beauty of the scene. His mother-in-law had been right; his heart was filled with so much pride and joy, he felt it would burst.

Oh, Elizabeth's beauty had never surprised him; she was always stunning. Today however, her beauty was reflected brighter than ever before. She wore an exotic long cream dress that highlighted her elegantly tall figure. He was happy to see she had left her hair down and her long curls shone as they hugged her shoulders. The jewels she wore in her hair sparkled and highlighted the brightness of her striking green eyes.

John realised it was not this alone, though, that captured the attention of everyone around her. The thing that people noticed above all else, was the sheer determination and courage she displayed. As she purposely moved closer and closer to John, everyone present understood the sheer grit and hard work it had taken for her to reach this goal and John, though longing to lift her into his arms, knew how important it was to this woman to succeed; this was her gift to him alone. As she drew level with him and their eyes met, what they saw in the other's eyes dispersed any lingering doubts.

John stood with open arms, his expression showing his admiration, his pride. As his eyes silently welcomed her home, she reached the safety of his protective embrace and they relished in the feel of one another.

John knew then that this was where he needed to be, where he would remain for the rest of his life. His only mission in life now was to care, love and protect this woman who had come to mean so much to him.

As the couple became one, they knew that day in the hospital, something had guided John to her side, so they could once again be reunited and today was their final reunion. As they listened to the words that marked their joining, they heard it and smiled to each other in understanding; Atlantis. Atlantis was rejoicing.

Atlantis hummed with joy, as she waited for the joining of the couple. A couple that brought so much love, so much happiness. Two great spirits, who between, them had brought her great city to life once more.

She, Atlantis, had spent so many long, lonely years waiting, to be once again awakened. As she arose from her deep sleep, she knew then what she had been waiting for. Time had been waiting for the right moment, waiting until it could be sure.

Suddenly many years later, the bright lights of Atlantis again shone across the Pegasus Galaxy, brought about by the return of two people.

Atlantis had known them, as soon as they stepped through the circle of water. She had reached out and embraced them, knowing she would forever protect and cherish them.

As Atlantis' happiness spread, the Atlanteans could only stare in wonder, as her lights appeared brighter than ever before. If they listened to the increasing whispers, they would understand.

As the couple become one, Atlantis sung with happiness, their names rejoicing from her walls. Elizabeth and John were finally home.