Title: Foundation
Author's notes: Written for fandom_stocking.
Of all the things Teyla expected to see on Atlantis, nothing could have prepared her for the sight that sat before her.
The ocean.
When she had first stepped in the Ancestors' city, her people excitedly told her about the seemingly ending expanse of water that surrounded their new home. And when they were celebrating with those from earth the night before, she could see a hint of the ocean with its inky color in the horizon.
Still, she needed to see it during the day, with the bright sunlight bouncing off it. After making sure her people were settling as well as they could, Teyla made her way to an open balcony and walked outside.
The ocean greeted her with its distinct song and its sun-kissed blue surface. Teyla inhaled deeply, taking in her surroundings. She stood for a few moments, listening to the water crash into the city below her before the doors behind her slid apart.
"Incredible, isn't it?" John asked, standing next to her.
"It is," she agreed. "It is rare that I see waters such as these."
John looked away from the impressive seascape to Teyla, frowning slightly. "There aren't any oceans on your planet?"
She shook her head. "Not any that I am aware of. There are stories my people tell of a clan of explorers who long ago went from the village and discovered where land and sea met, but they are considered children's tales."
"I guess that means you don't know how to surf," he commented with a grin.
A confused smile fluttered over her lips. While she didn't understand what he was talking about, his charisma drew Teyla in. "I am afraid not." She turned to face him completely. "Is it true that most of your planet is covered with water?"
He nodded. "This," he said, nodding to the ocean, "is the only thing that reminds me of home." He saw her cringe slightly. "You know you and your people can return to Athos if you want."
Though there was a part of her that wanted to do exactly as the major suggested, to back to the lands she grew up in, she knew her people were will protected on Atlantis. To live without fear of a Wraith attack was something the Athosians had never known.
"We do not know what condition the Wraith have left my village," she replied with a frown. "Besides, I feel as if there is much our two peoples can learn from each other."
John's face lit up, pleased that she was deciding to stay. "We sure can. And as soon as McKay sets up the video feed, I'll start by sharing with you the best game on my planet: football."
Teyla turned back to the ocean wondering exactly what to expect from these people who play a game called football and live in a world with more water than land.