nath_42

Disclaimer : I don’t own anything…
Season 4 – Shipper

Chapter 4

It was almost daylight. Sunbeams were sliding on the surface of the ocean, announcing a hot and beautiful day to come.

John remained in the shadows, silently standing on the balcony of the east pier. He liked this spot, away from the agitation of the city. He had been up all night, brooding over the events of the previous day. So many things happened, it didn’t feel real.

Michael was gone, at last. He had caused so many deaths among the Athosians and the people of this galaxy. At first, John had thought it was worth the try, that the retrovirus might be the solution to end this war. Teyla and Ronon were not convinced. They were right. He should have listened to them. Now it was too late, the harm couldn’t be undone and he was surprised his friends were still by his side.

Speaking of friends… his thoughts drifted towards Teyla. The words of Doctor Keller echoed again in his head « You are the father of this child, Colonel. » It hit him hard, but he sucked it up at the time. He first refused this possibility. How could he be the father of her son ? A simple touch made his heart skip, so how could he not remember a whole night spent with Teyla ?

He refused this eventuality… until he heard the confession of Nabel. Slowly, his brain put one and one together. He didn’t have lots of memories of the evening spent with the Sikari people. But then, he realised his dreams had begun days after this event. Not really dreams… just flashes… very disturbing flashes that woke him up at night and let him lost and confused.

The door chimed behind Sheppard and he sighed in frustration. He had a terrible headache, his emotions were a mess. The last thing he wanted was to hear congratulations or pep talks. He wanted to be alone. He frowned and rubbed his eyes.

« John ? » he heard. Her voice was soft, concerned. He didn’t move and stared at the ocean in front of him. He heard her footsteps moving closer to him. She leaned on the railing next to him. « Are you alright ? »

John glanced briefly at her, then his gaze went back to the ocean. Her face was pale. She probably did not have a lot of sleep tonight. He smiled.

« I’m fine. » He sighed again and added, ironic : « It has been a hell of a day ».

They looked at eachother and smiled.

Things had been odd lately. After the interrogation of Nabel, Teyla had mumbled some excuses and left the room. Sheppard, on the other hand, had been stuck with Woolsey, Ronon and McKay. He had tried to escape but McKay and Woolsey would not let him alone. He tried to avoid their questions. It was hard enough to process the information. He wanted to be alone, period. Woolsey was not a bad guy, but he was a real pain in the ass sometimes.

« - How’s Tagan ? asked Sheppard.

- He’s fine, thank you. I believe he is in the control room. »

John raised a brow, curious. Teyla smiled.

« When I left, Amelia and Chuck were arguing about ‘who should hold the baby’ » she said, miming quotation marks. John laughed.

« - Geez this child his gonna be spoiled.

- about that, John… »

She paused, taking a moment to gather her courage and find the right words.

« This is a delicate situation for both of us. I… » She paused again. It was harder than she thought. She had been awake all night, holding her little boy and listening to his heartbeat as he fell asleep in her arms. She remained in the dark, staring at him in the moonlight. John’s child.

In a way, it made sense. When the expedition left a year and a half ago, Kanan and Teyla became closer. Then John came back and she felt the need to slow things down. Kanan was a good man and she didn’t want to let him down. He didn’t deserve it. But deep down, she knew she didn’t love him.

She was aware of John’s eyes drowning into hers but she looked away, unable to hold his intense gaze.

« I had time to prepare myself and embrace my new condition as a mother. You, on the other hand… » Another hesitation. « This child has a mother and a family. You don’t need to… » She bit her lips « I mean… I would understand if you… »

John didn’t let her finish her sentence. He gently pressed his hand on hers.

« Don’t worry, Teyla. I’m not gonna let you down. This child has a father too. »

Teyla released her breath. She didn’t want to force his hand. He had the right to choose. But his answer washed away most of the fears and interrogations that kept her awake the previous night. « Thank you » she whispered.

John smiled at her. He removed his hand from hers but didn’t look away. She drowned in his eyes and her heart melted. Maybe they didn’t meet by accident that day on Athos. Maybe the stars brought them together.

« I am glad you are the father, John. »

He frowned. « I thought you and Kanan… »

« It is… complicated » interrupted Teyla. She looked away « We became closer when you went back to earth. »

John nodded but couldn’t hide his smile.

« There is something else I wish to tell you » Teyla added.

She drew a breath and closed her eyes.

« - I think I have memories of the night… the night we…

- me too. »

She looked at him, surprised. John cleared his throat.

« Well, not memories, just flashes. I thought it was just some dreams… you know. »

Teyla nodded. They stared at the ocean in silence. Then John sighed and ran a hand in his hair. He slowly walked away from the railing.

« I love this child already, Teyla. But I don’t know if I’m gonna make a good father. In case you didn’t notice, I haven’t grown up myself. »

Teyla turned around and smiled.

« - you will be a good father, John. I am certain of it.

- thanks for the vote of confidence. I’ll have to remind you of this conversation, one day. »

He slided down the wall and sat on the floor.

« My father and I didn’t get along very well. I hope it doesn’t run in the family » He sighed.

Teyla closed the distance between them and sat down by his side.

« Also, I’m not very good with feelings. I screwed up my marriage, my manners are terrible. Oh, and I told you I haven’t grown up, right ? »

Teyla laughed and leaned her head on his shoulder.

« I can’t afford to screw up with you, Teyla »

The Athosian cuddled against him and closed her eyes. A ray of light suddently warmed her face. She felt John’s arm pressing on her waist and sighed.

« You won’t screw up, John. Trust me, you won’t. »

***

Disclaimer : I don’t own anything…
Season 4 – Shipper

Chapter 3

The sound of sticks striking against one another had replaced the usual banter between Ronon and John. The athmosphere was light but the men had set up the pace to a higher level. John was a quick learner. But to be honest, he had improved his skill more quickly with Ronon than with Teyla. The woman was not gentle with him, but she didn’t hit him hard. On the contrary, the Satedan didn’t hold back his strengh. John had received many hits ; he had learned it the hard way. He had to focus all his attention on the fight, which was not necessary the case when he was hanging around Teyla.

At first, he tried to avoid the hits. Then, he slowly began to attack his adversary and sometimes, he even managed to score points off Ronon. Boy, this man was a hell of a teacher. He even succeeded in teaching Doctor Keller some moves to defend herself. McKay… Well it was another story. But Ronon had not given up on him yet. And John suspected him to enjoy way too much the Ninja lessons.

His mind wandered a second. A second too long. Ronon jumped on the opportunity and the stick hit his jaw. Badly.

« - Focus Sheppard. Stay on your guard.

- yeah, yeah. »

He glared at the young Satedan and took a step back.

« Damnit. I swear one day, you’ll regret it. »

Ronon smiled, defiant.

« Well, then. Come on and try again. »

John rolled his eyes. But his friend’s words had challenged his ego. He needed no more. He rushed forward but was suddenly stopped by Major Lorne’s voice.

« Colonel, I think we’ve got something. »

The tone was insistent. His second in command, usully calm and composed, stormed into the gym.

« - What’s going on, Major ?

- Lieutenant Dinozzo just arrived from M7G-676. He’s pretty sure Teyla’s baby is hidden on this planet. »

John stared at him a brief moment. « How… ? » But the Major didn’t let him formulate his question.

« Dinozzo was undercover on this planet. He made some friends, pushed them a little hard on the drinks. And he learned that a man by the description of Michael had once arrived in the village, put it upside down but didn’t kill or capture anybody. »

Lorne stopped a few seconds, breathless. He had run all his way down to his commanding officer after the Lieutenant had debriefed the situation.

« A man swore he saw the creature carry a child. »

Sheppard dropped his sticks on the floor. « Let’s go »

« Sir, there’s a small problem. M. Woolsey has just arrived. The Daedalus beamed him down in the control room half an hour ago. »

John stopped and turned around to face the Major.

« That’s just great » he mumbled.

Colonel Carter had returned to the SG-C to supervise the extraction of the Goa’uld Baal’s symbiote. She had temporarly put John in charge of the expedition. With the sudden change of command, he was now worried about Woolsey’s priorities.

But Sheppard was determined to show his new C.O. the importance of their mission. He knew he had connexions with the IOA. And he knew it could cost him his job. But he was willing to take the risk.

« Major, prepare your men. Rendez-vous at the gate in 30 minutes. »

Then he turned to Ronon.

« Get ready. Call Teyla and McKay ».

He didn’t wait for their answer and ran to the control room. He would get the permission to go on this mission. It was an affirmation.

« Welcome home, M. Woolsey. » he murmured.

-----

The ring activated and a massive flow of energy filled the air. Seconds later, Sheppard and Lorne’s teams got out of the stable puddle and quickly established their perimeter.

« Sanchez and Granger, hold the fort » ordered Lorne.

« Yes, Sir »

Sheppard made a quick halt and called Lt. Dinozzo out.

« - How far is the village ?

- two miles in that direction, Sir.

- all right. Lead the way. »

The young Lieutenant nodded and walked away. The rest of the team followed him in silence. Everyone knew what was at stake. The men were concentrated on their mission and tried to keep their mind clear. Years of military training made it easier.

But it was impossible for Teyla to focus on the surroundings. What if the intel was wrong ? What if the baby was not hers ? Would she recognize him ? So many questions and doubts. Emotions were messing with her head. She should be thrilled, there was hope. Instead, it was a torture. She had wanted her child back so badly. Now that her wishes were about to become reality, she was scared.

A large hand brushed her shoulder. It was Ronon. Even in the worst situations, he could feel if something was wrong with his friends. Despite his rough manners, Ronon was a very subtle man. Teyla smiled and quickly nodded. She was fine. He got the message and found his way to Rodney, who was babbling unintelligible sentences. The Satedan slapped him on the back of his head.

« - Aoutch !  What was that for ?!

- Shut up » ordered Ronon and John in unison.

They finally reached their destination and stopped at a safe distance. The Colonel took his pair of binoculars and mentally tried to evaluate the situation.

« What now ? » asked Rodney.

Lieutenant Dinozzo indicated a small group of habitations on the left, away from the village.

« I’m pretty sure the boy is kept in here. The couple who lives there is old, the woman stay mostly at home. The others don’t seem to know the existence of this baby. They keep him at home. »

He looked at Teyla.

« I swear I saw a baby in this house. I think it’s yours, Ma’am. »

The young woman stared at him, motionless. She tried to contain the tears that were threatening to fall down on her beautiful face.

John finally broke the silence.

« All right, we keep a low profile. I don’t want to draw attention on us, got it ? »

The last sentence was destined to the good Doctor, who rolled his eyes but remained silent.

They moved quickly. A few minutes later, they reached the house and the Colonel gave his orders. « Teyla, Ronon, Lorne. With me. »

« Rodney, Dinozzo. Check the perimeters. »

McKay opened his mouth but John didn’t wait for his protest. « Stay here and stay quiet. »

It was not a suggestion. Rodney got it five by five. His friend and C.O. was not in the mood. Understandable. So, he didn’t insist.

The group separated and John went round the house, followed by Lorne, Teyla and Ronon. They heard a baby cry. Teyla tensed. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest. John got out of the shadows and took a look into the house, through a dirty window. A woman was showing her back to the door and was leaning over a small cradle, entirely made of wood. She started singing and the baby stopped crying. Clearly, this old lady wasn’t a Wraith worshipper. But Sheppard wasn’t ready to trust her, yet. They needed to be cautious.

« Sheppard ?! » McKay whispered, hysterical.

« What ? » John answered.

« What ? huh ? » The radio crackled and Rodney’s voice lowered. « What now ! this stup… radi… not working… damnit… Zelenka touched that thing… broke it… yes Lieuten… thank you. I know how it works… not stupid… In fact, I’m probably smarter than y… »

John heard Lt. Dinozzo in the background, then patiently waited for Rodney’s next comment.

« Oh, Err. Yes that’s it. »

The voice was clear now, still a little confused.

« Right… Err, well I knew it was this chanel. It just… slipped out of my mind for a second. »

Then he regained some composure and his arrogance resurfaced.

« But you know, brilliant stuffs are always popping out of my head, monopolizing my brain. I can’t focus on such insignificant things like that. Einstein was… »

« McKay » John ordered, exasperated. « Drop it. What did you want to tell me ? »

He saw a man enter the room, from the corner of his eyes. He was carrying a heavy basket, of what seemed to be vegetables.

« Oh, right. The husband is on his way. He’s about to come inside. »

John and Lorne shared a look and the Colonel rolled his eyes.

« Thanks Rodney, that’s good intel » he said, ironic. Then to the others « Let’s go ».

They moved slowly to the front door, carful not to cross other people. Sheppard waited a few more seconds, then nodded at the Major. He opened the door without hesitation and entered the house first, aiming his P90 at the old couple, who jumped in surprise and stared at the men.

They were so stunned they didn’t even think of asking for help. They stood motionless, squeezing their hands and shaking all over. Ronon closed the door behind him and leaned against it. There was no need for him to frighten the couple. Two armed men were enough.

« Hi » said Sheppard. He flashed them his flyboy smile and spoke again.

« Sorry to interrupt, folks. My name is John Sheppard. This is Major Lorne, Teyla, and the big Chewie over there is Ronon. »

He waited for their reply. It didn’t come.

« Alright. Since it appears that you lost speech, I’m gonna dig further the presentations and inform you about the reasons of our ‘rude’ intrusion into your ‘home sweet home’ ». He stressed his last words and waved at the house.

« What do you want ? » the man managed to articulate. As if he knew they were talking about him, the baby started crying again. The old lady reached for him and carried him in her arms.

« We want to boy » said John, his voice calm but firm and determined.

The woman stroke the back of the baby and hid behind her husband.

« You can’t » she complained. Her voice was desesperated.

Teyla couldn’t take her eyes away from the little form resting in her arms. She put her gun down and took a step forward.

« We want you no harm. We came here for the child. I think he’s mine. »

The couple remained silent a few seconds and looked at eachother. Teyla gathered her courage and tried to refrain the need to take her son in her arms.

« A Wraith hybride took my baby several weeks ago and let me die. My friends here rescued me. They searched my child in the entire galaxy. They never gave up. » She paused. « We know this child is not yours… We know a Wraith came to your house. »

Her voice suddently broke. « I don’t know what he did to him. I don’t know what he told you. » Her beautiful brown eyes were watering.

« I just want my child back. Please. »

Silence settled for a long minute. The couple was processing the information, while John and his team were waiting for any reaction.

The woman took a few steps towards Teyla, the baby still in her arms.

« I am very sorry for you, Dear. But we cannot give you this child. Our lives and the ones of the villagers are at stake. »

Her husband spoke « This… Wraith… or hybride… threatened to slauther the entire village if we said or did anything against his will. If you take this child, the creature will kill us. »

« We can help you » intervened Sheppard.

« We don’t even know you », the man answered back. « You can’t expect us to trust you ».

Lorne sighed and glanced at his commanding officer.

« Look » John tried again, « We know this Wraith well. We have weapons. We can protect you. We could have killed you and taken the baby away with us, but we didn’t. »

The radio crackled again. This time, it was Sergent Granger.

« Colonel, Major, please respond. »

« What’s up, Sergent ? » answered Major Lorne.

« - Sir, the gate just activated. We’ve got company.

- take your positions, at cover. But do not engage.

- yes Sir. »

The woman looked at her husband, she was on the edge of breaking down. « That’s him, Alar. He’s coming. »

Sergent Granger spoke again over the radio.

« - A dart came through. Then the puddle shut down. Only one dart Sir. Do you want back up ?

- no Sergent, we’ll be fine. Keep your position » ordered Sheppard.

Then he turned to Alar. « This Wraith always comes alone, doesn’t he ? » The old man nodded. « He comes to check on the child from time to time. The people of the village know nothing about his visits. » Then he added « You must leave. »

« We’re not leaving » Sheppard stated. His voice was sharp and cold. Ronon knew it was time for revenge.

« We’ll take care of him. Now, we’re running out of time. Stay here and stay quiet. He’s gonna be here any minute. »

They didn’t wait long. Five minutes later, the door opened and Michael appeared on the threshold. The humans were there, the baby too. They were standing right in front of him, as if they were expecting him. Something was wrong. They were scared. He was used to it. But this time was different, they were acting oddly. Before he could reach them, he heard a familiar sound and felt an electric shock going right through his body. The room suddenly went dark and he fell on the floor, unconscious.

« Holly goodness, what did you do ?! » The woman was hysterical. « Ancesters will punish us for this affront ! »

« - You’re welcome, said Rodney, who had just arrived.

- A man was killed in our house, we are cursed.

- he’s not dead, ok !

- not yet » added Sheppard.

His words raised a bell in McKay’s head and he stared at him for a brief moment. His friend was standing motionless in the middle of the room, his eyes were dark and full of anger. This was not a good sign.

« What do you mean ? » he asked.

John ignored his question.

« - Lorne, escort these gentlemen outside and wait near the gate.

- Sir ? »

The Major was hesitant. He was willing to follow orders, but the Colonel’s behaviour was suspicious. It was taking a very personal turn. He knew his boss was blaming himself for the experimentation on Michael. In fact, he was blaming himself for almost every dramatic issue that occured during missions. He was too hard with himself. Evan didn’t know much about his past, but he was pretty sure he was running away from something. It could explain his reckless actions and his heavy record.

Hell, he couldn’t blame the man. Lorne did things he wasn’t proud of, always following orders, and sometimes, it haunted him. In fact, he admired the Colonel. He wished he could have the guts to follow his ethics and disregard the court martial’s threat. But to be honest, he was not ready to do so. He didn’t want to be discredited. It would be an affront to his family.

Sheppard glanced briefly at him, then turned his attention on Teyla, who stared back at him.

Way too personal, Lorne thought. But he didn’t really bother. Michael had gone too far. The bastard deserved to die. No paperwork, no custody, no interrogation. Woolsey didn’t need to know. Selfdefense, crossfire, whatever… He would back his superior. « Yes, Sir » he answered.

Lieutenant Dinozzo escorted the couple out. But Teyla stopped them before they could reach the door. Without a word, she carried her son away from the lady and held him in her arms. Her little boy. The baby she never had the chance to know. He had grown up so quickly. She was suddenly overwelmed by emotion. Her tears fell on the baby’s face as she gently brushed her lips on his forehead. Then, her eyes moved from Michael to Colonel Sheppard, who was still staring at her. His expression was hard to read, but she knew him well. And she knew what he was about to do.

She felt the gentle touch of Major Lorne, inviting her to leave the room. She hesitated. She once had compassion for Michael, but this time was over. After all he had done to the Athosians, to her and to all the people of this galaxy, they could not allow him to escape again. To be honest, she was dying to pull the trigger herself.

Call it maternal instinct if you want, she repeated herself. But she knew better. She had this warrior instinct, the need for survival, the need for revenge. People had lived in fear for thoursands of years. It was time to change.

She finally walked away, followed by Major Lorne. Rodney was bringing up the rear, somewhat reluctant and nervous. He didn’t like the way this mission was heading. But he was too afraid to say anything. As for Ronon, he didn’t move. Sheppard knew he wouldn’t leave. And it conforted him. As much as he wanted Michael dead, he needed to ask him a few questions. And to be honest, he was not sure he could handle it. He was afraid of loosing control.

His friend closed the door and moved towards Michael. Sheppard helped him carry the Wraith. They tied him up to a chair and patiently waited.

-----

Michael finally woke up. Slowly, painfully. His vision blurred a second. Shadows were moving in front of him. He was not alone. He remembered being shot in the back. A stun weapon. That could not be villagers. They only had primitive tools. Another Wraith maybe. But how could it be possible ? He had kept this place secret. No one knew except him. He didn’t trust anybody. Both the Wraith and the humans betrayed him.

He tried to move but his legs refused to obey. He tried again. His wrists and ankles hurt and his lungs were about to explode, he couldn’t breathe. Then he realised. He was tied up to a chair. He waited a few more seconds, then raised his head. He was still in the house. The couple was gone. Standing in front of him was Colonel John Sheppard. He looked in his eyes and he knew he would not get out of here alive.

« Colonel Sheppard » he pointed. Then, he turned his head on the left and smiled. « Ronon Dex ». He sighed and closed his eyes a brief moment.

« You’re the last persons I expected to see »

The men remained silent.

« Well, there must be something you want to tell me, Colonel. Otherwise, you would have killed me already. »

Ronon stepped forward but remained quiet. If it was up to him, Michael would be dead by now. But John wanted some answers. Ronon was not sure Michael would gladly give it to him. And he was not sure the interrogation was very sane for his friend.

Sheppard didn’t move. His right hand was resting on his gun, ready to pull it out any moment.

« How is Teyla ? » A smile escaped Michael’s lips. « She didn’t survive, did she ? Otherwise, you wouldn’t be standing here. You want revenge. »

He paused. « The truth is… you won’t torture me. You don’t have the guts, Sheppard. »

John drew his 9mm. « Don’t tempt me Michael »

« - So what ? You’re gonna kill me anyway. What do you want from me ? Forgiveness ? I won’t give you this pleasure.

- I don’t need excuses. I need answers. Why did you do this ?

- Why do you care ? I’m the bad guy, I kill people. That’s how you see me, right ? Teyla was stubborn. She could have lived by my side, but she refused. I had no choice.

- She’s alive » stated Sheppard. 

Michael stared at him, shocked. « You’re lying »

He glanced at Ronon. The Satedan was smiling.

« Believe me », added John. « If she had not survive, you would have known what torture was, by now. »

Michael was silent. He was still processing the information.

« - We’ve met with Nabel, by the way. Pathetic man. It’s hard to find good spies nowadays.

- I see you have found your answers already.

- How many experiments did you conduct ? I want the gate address of each planet you visited. I also want the location of your ship. »

Michael smiled again.

« Do you really think I’m gonna give you these informations ? »

His voice suddently broke into an hysterical laugh.

« I have nothing to loose. I hope my experiments will kill and devour you all, until nothing but bones remain. »

The sound of a bullet echoed in the room, along with a cry of pain.

« Bad answer » said Sheppard. « Next time, it won’t be in the leg. »

Michael winced with pain.

« - You know, I did not have the chance to congratulate you, Colonel.

- How so ?

- Well, you’ll find out soon enough I guess. Things didn’t exactly go as I expected.

- Care to elaborate ? »

But nothing came. Only the hysterical laugh of an insane mind.

« Damn you, Colonel Sheppard. And give my best to Teyla. »

John couldn’t stand it anymore. He pulled the trigger without hesitation. The bullet went straight in Michael’s heart. He shot him twice. Just in case. Michael’s head fell on his chest and stilled.

John was surprised by his own reaction. He felt no remorse. On the contrary, it had been easier than expected. His hand was still on his gun, his heart was beating slowly. How could he be so cold and indifferent ? Yet, it was not surprising. He had been trained to fight and kill. Most of the time, he lied to himself, pretending his job was to protect people. But the reality was different. He was a soldier. He had taken many lives. Deaths were not always justified.

Ronon brought him back to reality. « Come on »

It didn’t seem to bother him either. But nothing unusual, coming from the Satedan.

« Wait »

Sheppard got out a lighter from his pochet and looked at the body in front of him. Then, he turned around and walked past Ronon, towards the door. His friend understood and dragged the body outside.

A crowd was gathered at a safe distance. The shots must have alerted them. It didn’t matter. John threw his lighter on the chair. Flames instantly rose and soon, Michael’s body was on fire. He stared at it for a moment. Ronon gave him a gentle tap on the shoulder and walked away.

-----

Colonel Carter had done a terrific job on Atlantis. Command was good to her. She had been chosen at first because of her impeccable military background and her experience of the replicators.

Woolsey had learned to know her better during his frequent visits to the SG-C. And he had a great respect for her. In fact, he was not particulary thrilled by his new assignment. But all things considered, he couldn’t have arrived on Atlantis at a better moment. The replicators had been destroyed and Doctor Keller had found an antidote to the Hoff drug after the discovery of Michael’s data among the debris of his planet.

Both Doctor Weir and Colonel Carter had to deal with difficult situations. And they did a wonderful job so far. The truth was, Woolsey was not sure how he would react in situations that required delicate and quick decisions. He tried to prepare himself during his long trip on the Daedalus. But who was he kidding ? He was about to administer a whole city in an other galaxy ! So many lives depended on his decisions.

He arrived on Atlantis 24 hours ago, thinking it would be an easy leadership. But again, he was wrong. Fortunatly (or not), Colonel Sheppard gave him some advice on the command of the city.

He was glad to have someone like the Colonel by his side. He knew the city and the personnel of the expedition very well. And despite his troubled past with the military, he had the respect of everyone on this base. Woolsey just hoped he would not interfere in his final decisions.

Sheppard could be very persuasive, and he had ‘convinced’ him to send his team on a mission the IOA would not agree with. His first act of command would probably cost him his job, or at least, some reprimands. But at the end of the day, he knew it was the right thing to do. And as he entered the infirmary and watched the young Athosian holding her son, he knew he had made the right decision.

The woman acknoledged his presence and greeted him with a warm smile.

« - Mr Woolsey, I thought you were settling in your new quarters.

- I settled well, thank you. I dropped by to see how you were doing.

- It is nice of you. »

Woolsey was unconfortable. He was not as caring and compassionate as Colonel Carter or Doctor Weir. But Teyla’s enthousiasm encouraged him.

« - So… How’s the baby ?

- He seems in good health to me. But Jennifer insisted to do a complete check up on him. I’m still waiting for the results.

- Does he have a name yet ? he asked, looking at the sleeping baby. Teyla smiled.

- Yes. May I introduce you Tagan John Emmagan.

- John ? I thought the father was Athosian.

- Of course, his name was Kanan. Although I didn’t expect my condition at all. It was a surprise to me. We were not seeing eachother a lot since John… I mean the expedition returned to Atlantis a year and a half ago.

- It’s a nice name, anyway.

- Tagan is the name of my father.

- Oh, I see. »

Richard gently brushed Tagan’s arm and smiled.

« Would you like to hold him, Mr Woolsey ? » Teyla asked.

« Oh… I, Err… don’t know »

The woman presented her son to him. The new leader of the city carefully hold him against his chest and stroke his back. The boy didn’t wake up.

« How is he allowed to hold the baby and I’m not ? » asked a voice behind them. Dr McKay, Ronon and Colonel Sheppard were entering the room.

« I won’t drop him on the floor, you know ! » added Rodney.

« Whatever » John answered. « As long as I live, you won’t spoil this child. Defense to hold him until he can walk (or kick your ass). And defense to dragoon him into Mensa.

- you’re just afraid he may like me better than you.

- oh, I’m scared !

- because soon enough, he’ll realise I’m smarter than you.

- yeah… Sure. »

John rolled his eyes and glared at Ronon and Teyla, who were laughing loudly.

« A little help here ? Or at least support ? »

Ronon shrugged « I already told McKay that I would kill him if anything happened to the boy. »

Rodney winced but remained quiet. He knew it was an empty threat but when it came to these stuffs, he didn’t dare to challenge the Satedan.

He saw Dr Keller walking towards them and decided to change the subject. She seemed to be lost in the reading of her file.

« So, how’s the boy ? »

No answer. The small group turned his attention on her. But she didn’t speak.

« Is there a problem ? » asked Teyla, worried.

« Hum no… no. Everything is fine. Tagan is in perfect health. »

She opened her mouth to speak, then closed it.

« What’s the matter ? » questionned Woolsey.

Jennifer hesitated.

« I discovered something… » She bit her lower lips and continued.

« I need to speak with Teyla in private.

- he’s not my son, is he ? whispered Teyla, ready to break down.

- oh no, Teyla. He is your son, that’s for sure.

- then tell us.

- I ran a DNA test to determine if it was indeed your son. And it was. »

She paused and stared at Woolsey a second.

« Maybe I should hold the baby… » she said, as she took the child away from him. « Just in case. »

She cleared her throat.

« - I ran the test twice to be sure.

- enough, spill it ! Rodney said, exasperated.

- well, this child has Wraith DNA, like his mother. But he also has… the ancient gene. »

The room suddently became quiet. Jennifer looked at them, but they didn’t seem to grasp the full meaning of her words.

« So, I decided to run a paternity test. » She glanced at Teyla, then turned her attention on Colonel Sheppard. He held her gaze, confused.

« You are the father of this child, Colonel. »

-----

The silence settled. Everyone was looking at Jennifer as if she had lost her mind, including John and Teyla. It was disturbing. How could they not know ?

« Is this a joke ? » asked Sheppard.

« I’m afraid not, Colonel. » She then looked at Teyla, who was still recovering from the news.

« It’s impossible » she stated. « There must be a misunderstanding. You have to do the test again.

- I did it twice, Teyla. I’m positive. »

Teyla shook her head.

« No, you don’t understand. It cannot be. »

Teyla and John stared at eachother, confused.

« Is there something you wish to tell us ? » asked Woolsey, looking at them.

Rodney’s eyes poped out of his head but he remained silent, nothing could get out of his mouth. As for Ronon, he was quiet as usual, but he managed a smile.

« I understand your wish to keep your relationship secret, Colonel, Teyla. » Woolsey commented. « But you can’t deny it anymore. »

« No Sir, you don’t get it. We didn’t… »

John waved towards Teyla. « We never… »

« You mean you didn’t sleep together ? » finished Rodney, tactfull. « You know guys how to make babies, right ? Normally, you put a guy and a woman in a room and… »

« Rodney ! » John shouted.

« Wait ! » Ronon interrupted. « Remember what Michael said, Sheppard ?

- what ?

- he said he didn’t get the chance to congratulate you.

- and ?

- and he also told us his plan didn’t go as he had expected.

- so what ?

- I don’t know. »

They were desesperatly searching for a logic explanation. But it didn’t come.

Teyla spoke again. « When I was captured, Michael told me he had great plans for my baby, that his Wraith DNA made him special. But he didn’t mention anything about the ancient gene.

- there’s only one way to find out, John said.

- hypnosis ? asked Rodney.

- I was thinking about our good friend, Nabel. I think it’s time to pay him a visit.

-----

The sound of the door woke him up. A familiar sound he was used to by now.

« Is anyone sleeping in this city ? Incredible ! »

He opened his eyes and sat on the bench of his cell.

« - I see the all gang is here. What owe me this honor ?

- we need information, said Woolsey.

- I already told you everything and I’m still waiting for your hand of the bargain.

- you won’t have to hide from Michael anymore, John answered. He’s dead. »

Nabel looked at him, suspicious.

« - Do you really think I will believe you ?

- I killed him, end of story. Now, you have to choose : you tell us what we want to know and you’re a free man. You don’t, and you’re stuck here forever. »

The Genii spy sighed.

« - What do you want to know ?

- the baby. »

John saw a sparkle lightening Nabel’s eyes and a smile escaped from his lips.

« - What baby ?

- my baby, said Teyla.

- oh yeah, congratulations by the way. How is he ?

- don’t mess with me, Nabel. » interrupted Sheppard. He took a step forward and warned him again.

« - If you lie, I promise there will no where in this galaxy you could hide from me. I won’t hesitate to kill you.

- I’m sure you won’t, Colonel. I know this subject is closed to your heart. »

He glanced briefly at the young Athosian.

« - Well, you have an interesting gene, Colonel. Many people would kill for it. Koyla was right. Atlantis is the best hope for the defeat over the Wraith. He also was right when he said you were incapable of using it well. You arrived in this galaxy and claimed to be the descendants of the Ancients. But you are imposters. As the most advanced people of this galaxy, we should run this city.

- easy there. What’s the point ?

- you need the Ancient gene to activate the Jumpers, right ? In fact, the Ancient gene is required for almost everything on Atlantis. We were unable to stole or recreate your gene therapy. So, we tried something a little more ambitious. »

Sheppard didn’t know where he was heading for and he was feeling the premise of a terrible headache.

« - To the point, please.

- do you remember this evening you spent with the Sikari people ?

- vaguely. I kind of got drunk that night.

- no you weren’t. You were drugged. »

John stared at him in disbelief.

« - what does it mean ?

- see, the Sikari are friends with the Genii. We asked them to invite you. You didn’t meet by accident.

- so you drugged us, then what ? »

Nabel smiled.

« - It was not a simple drug, Colonel. The plant we used is very rare but very powerful, with unique properties. It stimulates specific hormones and muddle up your mind.

- oh my god ! said Rodney. You slept together, that was true ! I can’t believe it !

- shut up McKay ! » said John.

Richard Woolsey intervened.

« - If I understand you correctly, Mister Nabel, the Genii drugged Colonel Sheppard’s team and let him seduce Miss Emmagan in order to make her… pregnant ? Isn’t it devious ? Were you planning on kidnapping the child ?

- I told you our plan was ambitious, not devious. It didn’t go as we expected. A Genii woman was supposed to seduce Colonel Sheppard. And given the Colonel’s reputation, we didn’t think it would be too hard. »

John winced but didn’t speak. He was still processing the information.

« Of course, we doubled the proportions. We only had one opportunity. But apparently, the Colonel found someone else to his taste. »

Nabel stared at the Athosian, amused.

« And by the looks of it, the feeling was mutual. »

Woolsey, McKay and Ronon stared blankly at Teyla and John, who were blushing hard. The new parents were avoiding eye contact and seemed to find a sudden interest in the dusty floor.

John cleared his throat, unconfortable.

« I think I’d remember if I had spent the night with Teyla. » He mumbled. « Regardless, I woke up alone.

- please Colonel, you don’t think we were stupid enough to let both of you wake up in the morning and discover the subterfuge. You would have known something was wrong. And all the evidences would have led you to the Genii. We injected you the drug again and we carried the lady in her room… in perfect gentlemen, my I add. 

- holy stars… » whispered Teyla.

Her face lost all colors as she brushed a weak hand on her temple.

« Are you alright, Teyla ? » asked Woolsey. She nodded. « Tell me, Mister Nabel. You’re not really a Wraith worshipper, are you ?

- not really. By infiltrating his ranks, I kept an eye on the baby and I gave valuable intel to my fellow Genii.

- Is Laden Radin in the confidence ?

- This traitor ? He’s a coward.

- I guess not, commented Woolsey. Well, I suppose we have no reason to keep you here anylonger. Unless you were lying of course, and intended to plan another devious subterfuge in the futur. See, I have troubles keeping my hand of the bargain.

- I won’t do anything against Atlantis or the baby, you have my word.

- Good. »

Woolsey leaned closer.

« Because if anything happened, you may not be saved another time by Doctor Keller… and you have my word. »

***