AN: just a little stand alone i wrote a couple nights ago.

disclaimer: i don't own anything Atlantis related, although i might invest in the novels that are out...

no spoilers, i've set this early season 3 but it doesn't matter when. you can take this as friendship but i like to see it as pre-ship.


"John, what are we doing here?"

"Shhh…just watch and listen."

"For what?"

"Lizbeth…" he warned.

"Okay, okay."

Smiling, she turned away to face the ocean. They were meant to be joining in with the planet's festivities – the independence celebration. However just in the middle of the party, John had decided to drag her away. He kept insisting that she had to see something – what, he refused to tell. Curiosity getting the better of her, she had followed him through the forest to where they were now sitting.

Perhaps he wanted her to see the scene – it was breathtakingly beautiful. The dark sky broken only by the clusters of twinkling stars. The water far below them peaceful, aside from the gentle lapping of the waves against the cliff-face. The air was relatively warm, but a sea breeze was beginning to pick up, blowing her hair about ever so slightly.

She glanced at him, noticing his concentrated look, and grinned, "It's gorgeous out here."

"I know, but listen," he urged.

Still puzzled as to what he was so desperate for her to witness, she put her full concentration on their surroundings.

Which was easier said than done, given the close proximity she was sitting in, to her very irresistible Military Commander. She could see the rough outline off his face, and feel the gentle warmth radiating from his body. She may not know what she was here for, but she really was enjoying it anyway.

She lowered her head quickly; afraid he would turn and catch her staring.

And suddenly she heard it.

"Oh my god, is that…?"

"The Pegasus Galaxy's equivalent of whales," he grinned at her, pointing down to a point in the ocean.

"They're singing…"

They sat in a comfortable silence, listening to the unique – almost magical – sound. As it died away, John broke the calm.

"Thought you'd like it," he smiled facing her.

"It was amazing. I've never heard anything like it, it's … indescribable."

After sitting for another moment, they both suddenly realised they were still gazing at each other. John stood up quickly, releasing a breath, and extended a hand to Elizabeth, pulling her to her feet.

"The villagers told me about them last time we were here," he explained. "They believe they are magical beings, and that only those they think deserving get to hear their song."

"And you thought I was deserving?" she smirked, raising an eyebrow.

He paused for a moment, unsure how to answer without giving away he really did think that.

"Nah, I figured I was, and thought they might let you listen in."

She laughed and began to head towards the village.

"I can understand why they are believed to be magical."

He agreed and they made their way to the large fire where the rest of his team and the locals were celebrating.

As they approached the party, Elizabeth stopped and faced him.

"Thank you John," she flashed a brief smile and placed her hand on his arm.

He gave her a grin and replied, "Anytime Lizbeth."