Stargate Atlantis: The Continued Story

by KaytieGirl

This is really what a friend of mine and I have come up with. Some things may be a little off, so forgive me. We have introdued 2 new Char's a Tok'ra named Zava, and another woman named Dakara. We hope you enjoy it tremendousley! 1chap is 1ep

1. Kry'stallos

Kry'stallos

By KaytieGrl

With help from BriBri

It was a Stargate. Nothing special, just a Stargate. It was surrounded by a dirty mud-brick building that stood at the head of the city. Strong men with big spears stood guarding it, in case something or someone that was unauthorized decided to poke its heat through.

Outside was a big-time trading city, Galbara, sitting right in the middle of the trade routes of the planet Armeddon and the entire galaxy. Many of the traders from the Lucian Alliance gathered there. It was their only time of peace throughout the galaxy.

A girl wandered the streets. She had no goal, no life, and no home. She had nothing to lose, and almost nowhere to go. She had a free life.

She was one of the very few Tok'ra in the Lucian alliance. Her name was Zoe, but her Symbiote was named Ava. Since she usually didn't like to be summoned by the name of "Zoe and Ava," she combined their names to create Zava.

As Zava made her way through the crowded streets of Galbara, she bumped into people which was making Ava constantly say, "Sorry, sorry, sorry, excuse me, sorry." Zoe was getting annoyed by this.

Would you stop? They won't care. They've been bumped into a million times, so stop! Go to sleep or something.

Ava didn't like that. You're so rude! These people have a life, too! Don't think you're the only one who does. Besides, I don't need to sleep.

Zoe rolled her eyes and made herself determined to keep her mouth shut. She eyed the people in the crowd, searching for the perfect target. Finally, she spotted him. He was drenched with rich clothes and jewelry. Surely he had something to "donate".

Ava caught her. Not again. Why do you insist on doing this?

Zoe smiled. You want to have a roof and such over your head, don't you?

Well, yes, but—

Then shut up and let me work. Zoe advanced towards the man, and then she "accidentally" bumped into him, full force. "I am so sorry!" she said, showing her fake sympathy she had mastered over years of practice. "I wasn't looking where I was going. Are you alright?"

"Yes, I am fine, but you should watch out!" he scolded.

"Like I said, I'm sorry." She then ran off and crouched in an empty alleyway. "Look, Ava! This man's purse was full!" She drowned her hand in the dusty coins.

Good job, Zoe. You know, someday you will be caught. I will laugh when you do.

Aren't you a sweet Symbiote? Zoe hid the purse under her cape and left the alleyway, proceeding towards a booth set up with good friend of hers. "Dakara, I promise you a hearty dinner tonight!" Zoe smiled broadly as she poured the coins onto the table. "All in honor of your 28th birthday."

"How did you come across this!?" Dakara gasped.

"Watchful eyes and deceiving moves. What do you want to eat?" asked Zoe.

"Oh, Zava, I don't know how to thank you!"

Ava's face turned sour. "It was more Zoe than me. Honestly, I am ashamed of my host."

Zoe rolled her eyes. "And I am ashamed of my Symbiote. Come, Dakara, we'll close up shop early to celebrate." She gathered up the coins hurriedly, and then proceeded to pick up the energy weapons' ammunition and other painful goods. Dakara didn't hesitate to help.

The two then browsed the clothes and jewelry that the other traders had to offer, and they lived happily ever after…

…Well, for that night anyways…

---

Lt. Colonel John Sheppard sat in his room alone, a mug of beer at his side as usual and a Johnny Cash CD playing loudly on his laptop as he browsed a golfing magazine that was 3 years old. There was a knock on his door. "Come in!" he yelled, turning down the music just a hair.

"Hello, John!" Teyla walked in, smiling.

He smiled back. "Hi!"

"Um…Col. Carter wants to speak to you," she said.

"Oh, ok. Great." He closed the magazine and paused the music, then led Teyla out of his room. He wove his way to the control center. "You wanted to see me, Col. Carter?"

"Yes, John. There seems to be a problem with the city," she smiled at him.

"What kind of problem?" he asked, concerned.

"A kind of problem where we are losing control of the city," she replied.

"I thought we fixed that a long time ago," he rolled his eyes. "We're always having problems with this thing."

"Yes, it seems so," she sighed.

"Do we have any ideas?" he thought as he spoke.

"Well, we did think of something," she said.

"What is it?" he asked urgently.

"Well, it came from our Star Wars freak that just got here. He referred to episode 5 where C3-PO was hooked up to the Millennium Falcon and 'she' talked to him and told him the problem," Col. Carter explained.

"Brilliant, except C3-PO isn't here."

"Well, there's always you."

"Me? I'm not a robot."

"Yes, but you have the same genes as the Ancients. If you sat in the chair and listened, it might talk to you."

"Highly unlikely."

"It's still worth a try. We've already lost total control of the North and South sections. East and West are probably next."

"Whatever works."

"Good! Teyla will accompany you, Rodney and I'll check on your progress."

"Ooh, ooh, Col. Carter!?" Dr. Charlie Roe, the "Star Wars freak" approached eagerly. "Can I come, too?"

"Dr. Roe, I am still waiting on that report," Col. Carter said sternly.

"I'm almost done. Besides, I haven't seen the Throne Room yet," he pleaded.

"Dr. Roe—"

"Give the guy a chance, Sam," John cut her off.

She rolled her eyes. "Alright, Dr. Roe. But I need that report!"

"You'll get it!" Dr. Roe grinned from ear to ear as John led the way to the Throne Room along with Teyla.

John eased himself into the chair as he muttered, "Alright, Atlantis. Let's have a little chat."

Immediately a hologram showed. It was a beautiful woman standing straight and tall with dignity.

"Whoa," they all gasped.

She spoke first. "Help me," she said.

"Who are you?" asked John.

"I am Atlantis," she said.

"This is way better than Star Wars," Dr. Roe breathed.

"I am Colonel John Sheppard. Me and some other people from earth live here as well. What's wrong?"

"I am dying," she said.

"You're dying!? Why? Do you need more power?"

"No, power cannot save me now. I need the Crystal."

"Crystal? What crystal?"

"The Crystal that has been taken from me years ago."

"Do you know who took it?"

"It is with the Lucian Alliance."

"The Lucian Alliance? I thought they didn't know anything about Atlantis. Aside from that, they're in the Milky Way galaxy, nowhere near here."

"Please, understand I need that crystal. Otherwise, we will sink to the depths and we will all die."

"How much time do we have?" he was almost afraid to ask.

"72 hours. The crystal was borrowed from me to save a planet--"

"So other people have been here before us?"

"Yes, but they were Ancients. A long time ago, there was a rivalry within the Ancients. Nerna Alf rebelled because she thought she was robbed from being on the council. So, she and a handful of people were banished to another planet called Shazcaban. There, they started another civilization. About a thousand years later, the Atlantians and the Shazcas made peace. After the Atlantians left, the Shazcas realized their urgent need for the Crystal. I loaned it to them with their word I would get it back. 2 months later, that planet exploded and the crystal was lost. I haven't heard from it since. I put a tracking device on it, but it has since then faded and gotten old. Please, get it to me as fast as you can."

John shook his head. "We will try, Atlantis. I promise."

"I can only wish you luck." The hologram disappeared, leaving a moment of long silence.

Dr. Roe broke it. "That was awesome! Can I try?"

"No. We need to get to the Milky Way galaxy fast, to find that Crystal," John said.

"But, John, if we fail, millions of people still here on Atlantis will die," Teyla pointed out.

"I know, we'll have to figure that out. Come on," John led the way back to the control room.

"Nothing happened. What'd you do?" asked Col. Carter.

"We talked," said John.

"So, it worked? What'd it have to say?" asked Col. Carter.

"Well, she is obviously dying because she doesn't have the Crystal she lost before she came. Remember all the times we almost died because of losing power?"

"Yes."

"That was because the Crystal wasn't there. If we had the Crystal, it wouldn't matter where we were or how much power we used—it would never go out."

"How much time do we have?"

"72 hours. I suggest we evacuate so then in case we don't find the Crystal, which is probably what's going to happen, no one will get hurt. Of course, we'll be left behind so that incase we do find it, we can save Atlantis and send everyone back into her."

"Brilliant. So, where's the Crystal?"

"With the Lucian Alliance."

"What? They're another galaxy away from here!"

"Yes, I know. But if you and another team stay here, me, Rodney, Teyla, Ronon, and Charlie will go look for it."

"Charlie? Why Charlie? I might need him here."

"Well, he kinda wants to go I mean, come on, he's a Star Wars fanatic. Let him find his place of peace and Zen."

"Fine. You guys get started, I'll begin the evacuating."

"Okay, that works. I'll get everyone together."

---

The ground began to shake, and it steadily increased.

"It's not working!" a woman yelled to her husband, the ruler of Shazcaban, a slowly dying planet in the Milky Way galaxy.

"They promised us it would work! Try again!" he yelled.

She reinserted the crystal, but in vain. The shaking didn't stop. It just grew worse. "We have to leave, Araban!" she argued.

"Where's Zoenda?" he suddenly jumped, realizing his daughter wasn't there.

"I don't know!"

"We have to find her! Grab the Crystal!"

She ejected it, then ran after Araban. "Wait!"

"I can't! I have to find Zoenda!"

"Araban!" the structure gave out, crushing Araban's wife.

"Geeta!" He ran back. The only thing visible was her waist up.

"Araban, go."

"I can't leave you!"

"Take the crystal and go!"

As he took it, her last breath escaped her. She was dead.

Araban ran as hard as he could, calling out his daughter's name. "Zoenda! Zoenda!"

Finally, he heard her: "Papa! Papa!" That was his six year old calling. "I'm here!"

He ran to her and picked her up. She was crying, afraid. "Where is Mama?" she asked.

"We have to go, Zoenda. Come on!" Araban continued to run. "Hold the Crystal, Zoenda. We'll be safe soon!"

The ground was separating now. Large cracks formed, making unending crevasses into the depths. Araban was running out of time. Suddenly, he was falling. He managed to grab onto the ledge, but he couldn't hold both Zoenda and himself with just one hand.

"Help!" he called, his hand slipping.

A 13-year-old girl came to them. "Give me your daughter! Then you can climb out!"

He handed Zoenda to her, but failed to climb out himself. As Zoenda was taken, she never saw her father again.

The girl ran to a cargo ship and took off just as the ground below it fell. Zoenda was still crying as she watched the planet she grew up on disappear forever…

Zoe sat up, breathing heavily, sweat pouring from her forehead. She felt around her neck—good, the Crystal was still there.

"Zoe?" Dakara looked over.

"Huh?"

"Are you alright?"

"Just a bad dream. I'm fine."

"Was it about Shazcaban?"

"Um…yeah, something like that."

"You've been having those every night now. Something's wrong."

"Dakara, I'm fine."

"Or are you?" asked Ava. "I think it's the Crystal."

"I'm not getting rid of it!" Zoe yelled.

"Relax, Zoe. What if the Crystal wants to go home? It was promised to be returned, maybe now it's time?"

"No, I need it. I can't live without it!"

"Ava, leave her alone. You don't understand what she's been through," Dakara took her place back in the conversation, wrapping her arms around Zoe. "Come on, breakfast is ready, and there's plenty of things to do if we're going to sell anything today."

Zoe slowly agreed.

You're so selfish, Ava accused.

Shut up and let me enjoy my day! Zoe shut her out as she ate her breakfast.

Dakara started setting up as Zoe ate.

"When are you leaving, Dakara?" asked Zoe.

"Soon. I'm just setting up while you eat. Once I see you're doing fine, I'll leave."

"Sounds swell. I probably don't know how old I am, but I think I'm old enough for you to stop babying over me."

"Maybe you should just be grateful! I could've left you alone."

I can't wait until I'm on my own. She thinks I'm a baby! I hate it! I have you around. It's not like I'm gonna be helpless, Zoe complained.

See? Selfish, Ava snapped back.

I'm not selfish! How in the heck does this situation show I'm selfish?

You can't wait until you're on your own.

I mean solo...ish...I mean trading alone with you, as a single Tok'ra with no help whatsoever.

Yeah, sure. Right.

Ava, you know I'd never want to leave you.

Yeah...I know...

---

John, Teyla, Ronnon, Charlie, and Rodney sat in the Puddle Jumper, waiting for the "All systems go" command. Finally, they received it, and continued through the Stargate. On the other side, space surrounded them, and Rodney set the address for the Milky Way Stargate. "Where to first?" he asked.

"Let's try their home base," Charlie suggested.

"Sure, I really feel like being shot at today," John rolled his eyes.

"Well, it's the best place to start, don't you think? I mean, where else would they be?"

John sighed. "Alright, has anyone made any contact whatsoever with the Lucian Alliance?"

"No, why?" asked Rodney.

"Usually they'll want to kill you if you already have. Alright, let's go. Type in their address, Rodney," John commanded.

He did so, and the worm hole opened up. "Ready?"

"Yes, just go," Teyla was getting annoyed at their bickering.

"Sheesh," Rodney muttered as John eased the Puddle Jumper into the hole.

On the other side was an organized mess of mother, cargo, and fighter ships. 3 of the fighters made their way to the unsuspected Jumper.

An ugly-looking alien popped up in a hologram. "State your name and business."

"Um, I'm Lt. Col. John Sheppard, and this is my crew Dr. Rodney McKay, Teyla Emmagan, Dr. Charlie Roe, and Ronon Dex. We're looking for a crystal to power a city."

"A crystal to power a city? How big a city?" it asked.

"One that can submerge and fly, bigger than your mother ship over there."

"Hmmm...Follow us. We will escort you to the mother ship, Sheppard."

"Did you really have to give them our full name?" asked Ronon.

"Look on the bright side: At least they can look us up if we cause any trouble," John said.

"Well, hopefully we won't do that," Rodney spoke as if annoyed.

They followed the three fighters into the mother ship. Once they were docked, they were led out at gunpoint as if under arrest.

"Put your hands on your head," it growled.

"He sounded nicer on the hologram," John muttered to Teyla.

"Yes, I agree with you," she nodded.

After searching them, the gun was aimed to the floor and there was no more hostility...for now, anyways.

A tall, strong-looking man in his 60's came forward. "Hello. My name is Netan. I work the Lucian Alliance. Sorry about the guns, but I really have no choice. Many dangerous weapons come through that door, and it's a mandatory precaution. How may I help you?"

"Yes, I'm Major Lt. John Sheppard. The people behind me are Teyla Emmagan, Ronon Dex, and Dr. Rodney McKay. We are looking for a Crystal that was lost years ago that had a bond with a city. If by any chance you--"

"What is the name of the city?" asked Netan.

"Excuse me?"

"What is the name of the city?"

"Um...Atlantis."

"Interesting...continue."

"Well, about the Crystal, it was borrowed some years ago to save a dying planet. A couple months later the planet blew up, and the Crystal was lost. Now Atlantis is dying and we need that Crystal to save it, or else our whole organization will go through."

"Organization? What kind of organization?"

"We are explorers from Earth," Rodney spoke up. "We go through Stargate, save planets, and solve complicated problems like these to increase our knowledge of the galaxy."

"Well put, Dr. McKay," John smiled at him, then turned back to Netan.

"Oh, well--" Netan started, but was interrupted by an unseen voice. "Yes?...Dakara? Yes, bring her in immediately. Listen, one of my daughters came for a visit. She will be pleased to meet you."

"As will we," Teyla smiled graciously.

"Come, please. I'm sure Dakara will be tired. We have beautiful seating quarters where we all sit," Netan ushered.

Not soon after they were seated, an extremely beautiful young woman not much younger than Ronon came through. "Hello, father."

"Hello. Won't you be seated?" Netan motioned to a chair before introducing the "explorers from Earth". "Dakara, these people say they are from a place called Atlantis. They are looking for a crystal to save the city. I thought you might like to meet them."

"In that case I am pleased to meet you. I am Dakara. And you are?"

"I'm Lt. Col. John Sheppard, and this is my team Teyla Emmagan, Ronon Dex, Dr. Charlie Roe, and Dr. Rodney McKay."

"Pleased to meet all of you. Now, what about this crystal?" she asked, seating herself.

"Yes, well Atlantis loaned her crystal to save a dying planet with the promise that she would get it back. Unfortunately, two months later the planet exploded and--"

"Exploded, did you say? What was the name of the planet?"

"Shazcaban. Why? Do you know of a crystal?"

"A dear friend of mine--Zava--I rescued her from her home planet, which did indeed explode. It, too, was called Shazcaban. She lost both of her parents. She's had amnesia about it ever since, and the frequent nightmares she's been having are confusing her. Ava thinks that the place where they got the Crystal wants it back, and it's the Crystal's fault that she's having the dreams, but Zoe won't give it up. 'It's the only thing I have left from my parents,' she says."

"Zoe? I thought you said her name was Zava."

"She's a Tok'ra. She got tired of people asking her what to call her, so she goes by Zava. Ava is her Symbiote. Anyways, she keeps the Crystal around her neck. I could take you to her. She would, of course, have a problem with parting with it, but she could save Atlantis."

"Thank you. When can you take us to her?" asked Teyla.

"Right now, if you wish. Come to my ship, I will take you there."

"We really appreciate it," John smiled, following her to her fairly large ship.

"John, there's something fishy about this," Rodney whispered as they were seated. "How can we find it that fast? There's got to be a catch."

"Maybe so, but with only 72 hours until it's bye-bye Atlantis--70 now--we really don't have a choice."

"I see. Well, I'll see you in the after-life," Rodney said sarcastically.

"Will-do."

Dakara put the ship in hyperspace, then came back to talk with them. "So, what's Atlantis like?"

"Unbelievably beautiful," Teyla replied.

"It reminds me of a big cathedral," Ronon thought.

"It's pretty cool," John agreed.

"Very complicated..." Rodney shrugged.

"It reminds me of Manaan..." Charlie said in a dream-like voice.

They all looked at him.

"What? You haven't played Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic?"

"Star Wars?" asked Dakara.

"It's a form of entertainment back on Earth," John informed her.

"You all are strange. Excuse me, I'll check our status."

---

Zava stood at their booth, bargaining and answering questions. People couldn't get over Zava switching from Zoe to Ava, thus making Zava annoyed.

"No reason why there are few Tok'ra in the Lucian Alliance," Zoe muttered.

"I thought it was because the Lucian Alliance is violent and rips people off," Ava grunted.

"Thank you, Ava."

"You're welcome, Zoe."

Another customer came up.

Let me handle this--please? You can take the next person, Zoe pleaded. "Hello, I am Zava. May I help you today?"

You used our name! Our name!

"What kind of weapons do you sell here?" he asked.

"Ones dangerous enough that you need a permit."

"Don't you need a permit for them all?"

Smart, Zoe.

"Aren't you a smart man? Speaking of permits, do you have one?"

"Yes, I do. Here. See? You can see my name and picture."

As he had her bent over to look at it, he took out a stunner and--

...You can guess what happened next...

---

"Zava!? Zava!" Dakara searched the booth. "I swear she was here."

"Maybe she took a break or something?" suggested Teyla.

"Maybe. I don't see the stuff. But she didn't put up the sign. It's still 'Open'."

"What's this?" Ronon picked a card off of the dusty ground. "It says 'Zoe and Ava'. Is that Zava?"

John took it to look at it. He gave a whistle. "She's hot."

Dakara raised an eyebrow for a moment, then recovered and took the card. "Yes, this is hers. Where could she have gone?"

"I don't like the sound of this," Rodney said.

"Let's just hope there aren't any arrows involved," John joked.

"Ha-ha, very funny," Rodney said sarcastically.

"Let me make sure the stuff is in the back," Dakara said as she passed through a curtain and into the supplies tent, then came back out quickly. "Nothing's there. Everything's gone."

"You mean it was stolen!?" asked Teyla.

"I knew I couldn't have left her on her own!" Dakara muttered to herself.

"Maybe aliens came and took her away!" Charlie suggested.

John went over to him. "Charlie, to us, everyone not from earth is an alien. Got it?"

"Yes, sir."

"Do you know what that means?" asked Ronon. "No Zava, no Crystal."

---

Zoe, where are we?

I don't know.

Do you think we'll survive?

Dakara's not due back for a week.

Where are the lights?

Let me--I can't move.

Great, just great.

"Hello there, pretty one. And who might you be?" The lights suddenly came on, and Zava found herself looking into the eyes of a dark-skinned man with a black eye.

Zava didn't say anything.

"Oh, come now, there's nothing to fear."

"Is there? I can't move, I'm on a table, I don't know where I am, I open my eyes to some unrecognizable man and you say there's nothing to fear!?" Zoe exploded.

He was mad He pressed a button, and suddenly Zava felt volts of electricity shoot through her body, making her cry out in pain.

"Who are you?" he asked again, speaking more clearly.

After hesitating, she said it: "Zava."

"Your whole name?"

"That is my whole name. I'm an orphan--I never knew my parents."

"I see. Well, we have allot in common. I, too, am in some way an orphan. I have been disowned by my team. They left me alone, to die. Luckily, I found the Wraith enzyme. That is why I am still alive."

"Why am I here?"

"My dear, you have just been given a wonderful opportunity. You get to be my weapons expert. After all, after I examined the weapons you brought me, you seem to know what you're doing."

"Brought!?" Ava burst this time. "The last thing I knew I was looking at a weapons permit and then I am here! I wouldn't call that 'bringing'!"

He pressed it again. "I see you change your voices. Are you a Tok'ra, by any chance?"

"Maybe," Zoe spoke.

"So you have more than one name? Please, do tell."

"I am Zoe and Ava."

"Clever. Now, please tell that little snake inside of you to hold her tongue, or else maybe you won't have a Symbiote anymore. Listening? Good. I am Aiden Ford. Pleased to meet you. My little operation for killing Wraith and extracting their enzyme to make us stronger will soon be undefeatable if you can help me."

"With?"

"Weapons. They seem to be quite useful, in power and accuracy. If you can get me more to improve my advanced civilization--"

"Civilization?"

"Clones. So, are you in or out?"

"I...what's in it for me?"

"Your life."

"That doesn't seem like much."

"Your life, and you will be 2nd in command. Is that good enough for you? Of course, if you leave, how can I trust you to come back?"

"I am a Tok'ra. My Symbiote hates to lie."

"And yet you work for the Lucian Alliance?"

"How did--"

"Mind probing."

"So you knew my name?"

"Yes. But torturing is one of my favorite things to do. You are a very honest subject though, unfortunately. But, I still don't trust you. Maybe if I took something of yours like...this crystal?" He held it up--she hadn't noticed it was gone.

She struggled to get out, but strong steel cuffs held her tight.

"Ah, so this is something important to you?" he held it just out of her reach. "Tell me about it."

"It's the only thing left that I have from my parents!" Zoe struggled. "Please, give it back! I need it!"

"And I need the weapons. You get me more weapons, and I'll give you your Crystal. Agreed?"

"Could you just take Ava?" asked Zoe.

What!? What's gotten into you!? Ava screamed inside, then made herself heard. "That Crystal is more important than me!?"

"Ava, please, that Crystal is my life! I need that thing!"

"You need a life is what you need! I'm not going to be your Symbiote if you do this! Please, Ford, don't agree to this!"

Aiden laughed. "So the Host does not value her Symbiote? Such a shame. I am sorry, but the Crystal seems of much more value. I will keep the crystal until you return again. Now, are you ready to get out of the chair?"

"I need that Crystal!"

"It seems not. I will leave you until you are ready." He turned and proceeded out the door.

"Wait, Aiden."

He stopped.

"I am ready."

"Good. I will present you with a ship and you can soon be on your way."

The cuffs released, and as Zoe sat there rubbing her wrists, Ava spoke: I hate you.

---

"Where could they be! I don't understand this!" Dakara paced the room. "She wouldn't have stolen everything."

"Would she? You don't know," Ronon looked at the downside.

"Do you have a tracker on her ship?" asked Teyla.

"She doesn't have a ship! She's too young!" Dakara argued.

"Wait...how old is she?" asked John, his brow furrowed.

"I...I don't know. But she's not ready for her own ship!" Dakara raged.

"Not old enough or not ready? You're sounding like her mother," Rodney pointed out.

"Yeah, and how old were you when you had your first ship?" asked John.

"7, but that's not the point!" She continued to pace.

"She looks older than 7. Maybe older than you?"

"She's not older than me! She was like...5 or something when I saved her stupid god-forsaken life! She should've died."

"So...she's...20?" asked Teyla.

"Age has nothing to do with it! I just lost my whole stock without a trace!" she stopped. "That's it--Trace!!! Tracking device! We put a tracking device in her arm when we first found her!"

"I suggested tracker on her ship," Teyla muttered to Rodney.

"She hallucinating, let's not rub it in," Rodney shushed her.

"We have to go back! Come on!" she rushed them back to her ship. "Hurry, hurry, hurry!"

She shut the ramp to her ship as they were taking off, then went at top speed until she was ready for hyperspace.

"Just breathe, Dakara," Teyla helped her. "In, then out, then in, then out...there you go. Slowly, don't rush it."

"You sound like you're directing her in labor," Ronon joked.

"Be quiet, Ronon, I'm trying to help her."

"Are we there yet?" Dakara suddenly jumped and ran to the cockpit, Teyla still trying to make her relax.

"Dakara, stop! Sit down in the chair!" Teyla ordered.

Surprised, she did so.

"Now, look at me. Inhale silently and slowly through your nose. Good. Now exhale the same way, except through your mouth. Very good. Keep doing it with me."

John had to almost laugh at the sight. "That's funny," he said. "We should get a video of it and put it on YouTube."

"YouTube?" asked Ronon.

"It's a thing on the Internet we put videos on," Rodney explained.

"I see...strange," Ronon rolled his eyes.

"Now, Dakara, let me say something, but please do not freak out on me," Teyla explained.

Dakara nodded.

"We're here."

"Finally!" she jumped up and took the ship out of hyperspace, but still kept it at full speed.

"Dakara, relax--"

"No time!" she docked it and almost killed at least 10 people. She ran out and, with everyone struggling to catch up--except for Ronon--made her way to a large dark room and yelled, "Zava!"

A large screen that enveloped the whole room as a map of the Milky Way galaxy showed up with a red dot blinking.

"Zoom in!" she commanded.

It showed the Lucian Alliance mother ship--where they were.

"That's odd," Charlie stared. "It says she's here."

Dakara ran back out, yelling "Off!" before she left, leaving everyone else in total darkness, but John helped them find their way out in time to hear Dakara yell, "Zava!"

Right behind her, she answered: "Yes?"

"Zava! What happened!? Why are you here!? Where were you!?" Dakara shot out questions.

She blinked, her eyes searching for an answer. Finally, she found her answer. "I...who are you?"

"What do you mean who am I!? I'm Dakara! What are you doing!?"

"I...I don't know. Where am I?" she asked.

"You're here! At the mothership! Please tell me you're not having another amnesia attack!?"

"A whatty-what?"

"Ugh! Come with me!" she grabbed her wrist.

"No!" she pulled it away, recoiling. "I won't."

"You have to! We need the...the..."

"The Crystal," John helped her.

"Yes! Right! The Crystal!"

"Crystal? What crystal? I have a crystal? Oh! Am I rich!?"

"Ok, this is bad...you never forget about your Crystal! Ava!? Where's Ava? She's not answering. What'd you do to her!?"

"Who's Ava?"

"Ah! Ah! Ah!"

"Dakara," Teyla whispered, "relax."

"I can't relax!!!" she turned around to Teyla, taking her eyes off of Zava.

"She doesn't know where she is, who she is--" she stopped. "She answered to her name. That's messed up."

When she turned back around, Zava was a ways away, running to a ship with all her might.

"That ships not from the Lucian Alliance!" Dakara realized. "Zava!!!"

They chased her, but Zava was in the air before they could reach her.

Dakara ran back to the dark room. "Zava!" She map showed the red dot moving fast, then disappearing for a moment. It then enlarged, to show both the Pegasus and Milky Way galaxies, then zoomed into the Pegasus galaxy and the dot showed up once more.

"Suicide!" she suddenly yelled. "She's heading into an asteroid field! Zoom in!" It zoomed in to show her landing on a large asteroid.

"How am I going to get there now?" asked Dakara in disgust.

"Come to our jumper and we'll take you there," John said after a moment.

"Didn't you see? She went into an asteroid field! How are we going to get through that?"

"John's a fairly good pilot. He's gone through worse," Teyla assured her.

"Fine," Dakara grunted. "But if something happens to me, the Lucian Alliance will never forgive you!"

"Ok, no pressure," John nodded. "Let's go."

---

"Aiden! I'm back!" Zava walked into his quarters, guarded by clones.

"Good. Did you get everything?"

"It's all in the ship. Where shall I put it?"

"My people will care for that. I have finished your quarters. I believe you will find them quite enjoyable."

"Where are they?"

"256 will show you." He nodded towards one of the clones, who fell out of attention and led Zava. "And Zava, if you're interested, there are plenty of Wraith enzymes if you wish to help yourself."

"Thank you." 256 led her to large quarters filled with satin, marble, and other such rich things.

"There are clothes in the dresser, should you wish to change. Ford wishes to have dinner at the 8th hour tonight, to discuss business."

"Thank you, 256. Tell Ford I will meet with him then."

"I will." he left.

Zava collapsed on the bed. If this was the pay, it was definitely worth it.

She suddenly heard a buzzing sound. She looked over to see a IV packet with a needle filled with someorange liquid. She picked it up to examine it.

"It's Wraith Enzyme," Zoe said.

"It will probably deform you, like Ford," Ava cautioned

"He doesn't look that bad. His eye's just black, that's all..."

"But still, Zoe, think about it."

"Eh...one try won't hurt..."

...Or will it?...

---

Dakara sat in the back, impatiently tapping her nails. "So," she reviewed out loud, "We're going through a Stargate into a Wormhole and then we will appear on the other side in a new galaxy?"

"Yes," Teyla nodded. She was now officially Dakara's "helper".

"I find that hard to believe," she crossed her arms.

"We did it, Zava did it, millions of people have done it, and so can you."

"Ok, but in the end I will be seeing Atlantis, right?"

"I swear that you will see Atlantis if I have to die. Are you satisfied?"

"Yes...Okay, I think I can do this."

"Rodney, type in the address for the Stargate," John ordered from the cockpit.

"I can't do this!" Dakara suddenly freaked out. "Teyla, don't make me do this! Please! It's so far to be broken down and then put back to gether! What if I come back through deformed or something!?"

"Hey, Dakara," Ronon spoke, "You're not going to die. We wouldn't be here if there was a chance that you could die."

"True, Dakara," Teyla agreed.

"Can you like...knock me out or something?" she pleaded.

"No--"

"Ok," Ronon got out the stunner and aimed it at Dakara.

"What the--"

"Do you want to be knocked out or not?"

"Not like that!"

"Ok, then live through it."

Dakara whipped out her gun and aimed it at his face. "You don't give me a choice."

"I'll count to 5."

"I'll count to 3, then."

"Everything ok back there?" John yelled.

"Just go, we're fine!" Ronon put it away, as did Dakara. "Ready?"

"Ready as h--."

"You'll be fine," Teyla once again assured her.

"I know."

They went through the Stargate to find themselves in a totally different galaxy.

"See?" Ronon smiled.

"I'm fine," Dakara nodded.

"Good, now stay that way," Teyla urged.

"Need a break?" asked Ronon.

"Oh, yes."

"Rodney, put us in hyperspace!" John ordered.

Ronon smiled at Dakara.

She noticed this. "What are you smiling at?"

"Nothing."

"Well stop!"

His smiled faded. "I didn't mean to offend you."

"I just like people to not smile at me randomly."

"Fine with me."

As they neared the asteroid field, they saw it was larger than they thought.

"How will you get through that without scratching the Jumper?" asked Rodney.

"Well, a girl got through it, so...I think I can do it, too, Rodney," John replied.

"Wow...yeah, that looks impossible," Dakara nodded.

"You're not freaking out?" asked Teyla.

"Pft, no. I've been through worse," Dakara rolled her eyes.

"Like what?" asked Ronon, almost challenging her.

"Um...I don't know...A gun in my face?" Dakara retorted.

"It was only set to stun. Try being a runner. Once you've been a runner, nothing scares you."

"Oh really? Don't runners run?"

"Who said I ran most of the time? Fighting's an option as well."

"Yeah, sure. I'm stuck in the Lucian Alliance. That's the snake pit."

"Yeah, I thought you looked all-professional with your dad."

"I'm supposed to be lucky, though, because he never talks to any of his other millions of kids because my mom was the 'Hottest Woman of Them All'."

"Ooh...Yeah, pretty bad, Dakara."

"I was almost killed on an exploding planet trying to save some kid's life that is now ruining mine!"

"I was almost killed by people who did ruin my life. Anything else?"

"Yes."

He raised a brow.

"Your breath stinks." She walked back to the passenger seating.

"What was that?" asked John.

"My breath stinks…obviously…"

"Let me see...smell," Rodney volunteered.

Ronon breathed in his face, and Rodney immediately recoiled. "Oh, yeah, it stinks." He coughed.

"Anyone else?" asked Ronon.

"I think Dakara needs me," Teyla said and went back to her.

"I'm busy flying the ship, but thanks," John sarcastically smiled at him.

Ronon looked at Charlie.

"I…I need to finish my report," Charlie said.

"With what? I don't see a computer or anything," Ronon pointed out.

"Uh...I'm doing it...with...with my mind."

Ronon shrugged. "Fair enough."

"Everyone strap in!" John ordered. "We're going in!"

They all strapped in just as the first few pebbles flew by, but they gradually increased into boulder- and ship-sized. That's when the ride got a little bumpy.

John swerved, spun, and zig-zagged through the maze of rocks that had no right answer.

"Screaming yet?" Ronon challenged Dakara.

"I'll scream when you cry."

---

Zoe was dizzy. She sat at a long table across from Aiden. She didn't even know how she got there.

He chuckled an evil chuckle. "I see you've tried the Wraith Enzyme. Do you like it?"

Ava spoke; Zoe was still recovering.

"She is almost completely dead! If I wasn't here, she would probably already be dead with the dosage she took!"

"No need to get mad. It was your host's fault--not mine. She'll wake up in time. Right now, I need to speak to Zoe, please."

"She's not in her right mind."

"Let her talk."

Ava went to the back of Zoe's head. Zava suddenly was leaning her elbows on the table, fighting to keep her eyes open.

"Zoe?"

"I...I feel cold...more Enzyme...oh my--" she threw up on the floor, barely missing herself.

"I hate that. 862!!! Get me antidote!" he ordered.

It wasn't long before Zoe was recovering.

"Feeling better?"

"I...yes. Thank you." She still shook a bit.

"I think I'll have to rationalize your Wraith Enzyme--you almost killed yourself. You have to be careful. It's dangerous if you take too much."

"I'm sorry. I didn't know."

"Would you like some now?"

"Yes."

Zoe, don't hurt yourself.

Why would I? The stuff is so addicting. I love it! And think of the benefits--strength, and lots of it.

The benefits will come in the end, if they ever do...but if you take too much, I might die. I, too, was hanging by a thread.

I will be careful.

"So, Zoe, I believe you have gotten quite enough weapons. Now, I want an attack for more Wraith Enzymes. I need you to plan it out."

"Where are we speaking of?"

"There is a Waith named Oouzel. He has a large ship with many weak Wraith. If we attack it, we should have enough for 2 years to feed the whole ship."

"How many people are on this ship?" she asked, taking an injection of the Enzyme.

"1,002."

"Hmm...This is rationalizing?"

"Yes."

"How much do we have now?"

"One more year."

"We should stock up, incase we run out. What if, after we attack Oouzel, we attack another that is a little more powerful but twice as big. Then we won't have to worry about it, just incase we've overestimated the count." She injected more.

"I see what you are saying. It's brilliant."

"When do we attack?"

"Tomorrow at midday, just incase you get a hangover."

"That will work."

He smiled. "Good."

Suddenly an alarm went off, making both of them jump.

"Unidentified craft. Unidentified craft," it repeated with a loud blaring sound in-between.

Zava followed him to the control room, where it showed a small ship coming in.

He looked at her, then threw his hand to her neck. "You led them here!"

"No...no...I...swear..." she choked.

He felt her arm, finding a bump. "A tracking device."

"I swear I didn't know it was there!"

He growled. "I'll take them as prisoners."

"Put me in the cell! Make them think I'm a prisoner. Then I won't have to explain."

"If that's what you wish...396! Take her to the prison cells!" She was roughly handled all the way over.

---

"Weird...no big shooting guns," John noticed.

"Must've known we were coming," Rodney suggested.

"That's still weird," Ronon agreed with John.

"Maybe...they're having dinner?" suggested Charlie.

"Look! In the window--red flashing lights. They weren't expecting us," Dakara pointed.

"She's right. This isn't going to be fun. Ronan, hide behind the door as a backup. Everyone else--"

"John, I belive I can shoot just as good as Ronon," Dakara interrupted.

"This coming from someone who was worried about going through a stargate?" Ronon argued.

"Shut up, Ronon. I haven't been running my whole life. And my breath doesn't stink!"

"Who cares if my breath stinks? Atleast I can kill whatever jumps out at me!"

"Oh, yeah, is that true!"

He raised his gun at her, and so did she.

"I'll count to three."

"I'll count to two, big boy."

"Guys, come on, settle down," John pushed their guns down. "You both can jump out and scare the crap out of the little buggies that come out at us. Everyone else? Get a really big gun."

"Why do we need a big gun if we're just killing little buggies?" asked Rodney.

"We don't know how big these little buggies are," John replied.

"I see."

"Everyone ready!?"

"I believe so," Teyla nodded.

"Good. I'll see you all in the after-life." John opened the door to find they were inside a small, enclosed space.

They all walked out, except for Ronon and Dakara.

"I don't like the look of this," Rodney said.

"I can't even shoot," Charlie laughed, then stopped when he realized it wasn't funny.

"Okay, Charlie, just shoot the scary-looking stuff coming at you," John told him.

"Okay!"

"So that means I can shoot Ronon?" asked Dakara, pointing her gun at him.

"Shut up," Ronon glared at her.

"It's not my fault you're ugly," she snapped back.

"It's not my fault you're stupid."

"I'll count to two."

"I'll count to one."

"I won't count at all."

He fired, purposefully missing.

"What the--!? What'd you do that for!?"

"Okay, guys, seriously stop. Next thing we know you two'll be in a blood battle," John rolled his eyes.

Suddenly green vapor came down at them.

Charlie immediately started firing.

"Stop!" John coughed.

"You said to shoot at the scary stuff coming at me!"

"Scary stuff that has a..." he collapsed with everyone else.

---

Zava sat, the IV packet at her side, as the 5 unconscious people began to move.

The first up was John. He looked at Zava. "Who are?...Wait, you're...Vaza...Vazooo...Zalloo..."

"Zava?"

"Yes! Zava! Um...Where are we?"

"Trapped. Even I don't know where we are."

"Not good."

Rodney sat up next. "Oooh...pretty colors...John, John! Look at the pretty colors..." he saw Zava. "Ooh, pretty lady!"

"Rodney, stop! I'd hate to see what he's like drunk."

"Want some?" she IV packet and needle with the orange liquid.

John froze. "Ronon...Ronon. Ronon."

"Hey...Why are you shaking the caveman?" asked Rodney.

"Ronon!"

Ronon slowly got up. "Huh? What?"

John pointed.

"Oh no...please tell me..."

"Yeah. That's Wraith Enzyme. Zava, stop drinking it."

"It's too late--she's already hooked on it as it is."

"What's that? Ooh, pretty color...Can I have some?" asked Rodney.

Zava smiled. "Sure." As she passed it to him, John whacked it out of her hands, letting it burst onto the ground.

"That's not nice," Rodney implied.

"She's not nice! She frikin hot and she's giving us crap!" argued John.

Zava raised an eyebrow.

"Awkward..." Ronon whispered to him.

"Yeah, definately."

"Suit yourself, but you owe me! I decided to be nice and share the cell's rations but noooo, you had to splatter it all over the stupid cell! Nice going. And your hair's messy."

"Oh yeah!? Well...I don't care."

She raised another eyebrow.

"Just stop talking to her," Ronon suggested.

"Good idea."

Zava stood as Teyla and Dakara were waking up.

"Ooh, more pretty ladies," Rodney noticed.

Dakara slapped him.

"Ow...That hurt."

"Shut up and maybe it won't."

"Ok."

"Hey! Hey you, guard dude!" Zava yelled.

"That's not a guard--that's Ford!" John realized.

"Who? No, there's a ton of people walking around just like him. Hey! Clone dude! I'm out of Enzyme! Don't you care?" After getting no response, she grunted as she twisted one of the bars.

"Strong pretty lady," Rodney noted.

She twisted it back down so the rest couldn't get out, knocked out the guard with ease, then pressed a button for more Enzyme. When she got it, she came back in.

"What are you doing!?" John asked. "You could've let us out."

"You don't have enough Enzyme to get past the system. So, if you want out, you inject Enzyme," Zava put the needle into her skin.

"Do you think you could let us out?"

"Maybe."

"Will you?"

"I don't know."

"Zoe, do we have a reason to let them out?" asked Ava.

"No, Ava, I don't think we do. They'll be killed anyways. The answer is no," Zoe said harshly.

"I'll do something for you if you let us out."

She leaned up close into his face and stared into his eyes.

He was expecting a kiss or something, but instead felt the packet shoved into his hands.

"Don't, John," Ronon advised.

John looked at Zava, who shrugged.

"It's your choice, babe."

"Babe?" Ronon looked at Zava.

"Jelous, sweetie?"

Ronon grabbed her around the neck. "That's the last thing I am."

"Same as me." She kneed him in the gut, making him recoil to the ground. "There's more than meets the eye."

"Zava? What happened to you?" Dakara asked.

John handed Zava the Enzyme back.

"Something wonderful, Dakara. It's called Wraith Enzyme. I just took down this big guy with it. Want some?" offered Zava.

"YES!!!"

"Don't do it, Dakara--I've seen the real effects it has on people," Teyla warned.

"Yeah, like taking down big men?"

"I've taken down Ford before--he was filled with the Enzyme," Ronon coughed.

"And yet you're taken down by this female?"

"Dakara, Zava is a Tok'ra. She plus the Enzymes makes her a 'Super-Tok'ra', more powerful than Ford," Teyla explained.

"More powerful than Ford? Now that's something to think about," Zava tapped her finger on her chin. "I could take over the whole operation...Take out the Wraith...Rule both the Milky Way and Pegasus Galaxies...Who's up for it?" she held up the packet as if in a toast.

Ronon looked at her. "We have something in common: we both want the Wraith dead. But if all of the Wraith are dead, that means no more Enzyme. I hate the Wraith. They destroyed my whole entire life. If I'm on your team, you will die because of the lack of Enzyme."

"And besides, as much as I hate to admit it, that power would make you no better then the Goul'd," Dakara argued.

"Whatever you say. But, you are missing out. It's pretty awesome. Listen: We can make like...a super-army with this stuff! No one would get in our way at all."

"Anubas already tried that, but Carter found a way to deafeat them all," bragged Rodney.

"Yes, but was it with Enzyme?"

"It was 10 times better than the Enzyme," Sheppard said.

"But was I leading them?"

"No, an ascended being was," John said.

"Besides, you don't have the skill," Dakara challenged.

Zava jumped to her throat. "You think you're so much better than me. I have been like your little baby ever since."

"Don't forget that I saved your life, and your pitiful existance," Dakara reminded her mockingly.

Zava let go, and paced back and forth, shouting: "See!? You think just because you saved my life I have some stupid debt to owe! Well, I swear, the first replicator I find, he'll put his hand in your head and put you in the worst h--you've ever been in!!!"

That hit a sensitive nerve in Dakara. She turned so no one could see her tears, but Zava knew.

"Oh, yeah, go ahead and cry! But the pain you feel cannot measure up at all to the pain I have been feeling for years and years and years. Amnesia attacks, no freedom whatsoever, and it's all because of you!"

"Stop!" Dakara yelled. "It's not so easy as you think! You don't know the sacrafices I've made! The things I've done for you! I've given up dates, men, money, my time, my life, high places in the Lucian Alliance you SELFISH BRAT!!! And then you have the nerve to steal from me?"

"I never stole from you! I was kidnapped, then forced! He took my crystal. I had to come back with what he wanted."

"And I suspect that if he had taken me, you wouldn't have come back at all?" asked Ava.

"Ava, I'm sorry, I really am. I don't know what got into me."

"I agree with Dakara; You are a selfish brat."

"JUST STOP!!!"

Zava cowered into the corner, hands over her ears, tears falling.

"Wait, wait, wait; Zava, did you say Ford had the Crystal?" asked John.

"Is that ALL you care about!?" Zoe screamed at him.

"Yes, infact it is," John retorted.

"John! Please, she's having hard time," Teyla had a bit of authority in her voice.

"Well, with only 42 hours left I'm pretty anxious to get the crystal."

"Can we just get out of here!? Please!?" Rodney pleaded. (He was finally sober.)

"Zava," Ronon put an unusually gentle hand on her shoulder. "I'm not strong enough to bend the bars. We need to get out of here. Besides, we don't have enough Enzyme in our system to make it past security."

She looked up at him, sniffling a bit.

"Please?"

She nodded, stood and twisted the already-messed up bar so she could get out. She went to the alarm. "I don't know the code!"

"Just guess!" John suggested.

Zava shrugged and started tapping in random keys. Finally, she gasped.

"What!?" Charlie jumped.

"I got it! Everyone come on!"

They followed her.

"Let me go first; He won't be so mad."

"Why wouldn't he be so mad?" asked Dakara.

"Um...yeah, you guys don't know about that...I'll tell you later when we're not gonna die," Zava smiled a cheesey smile then caustiously stepped around the corner.

"Zoe!" Ford walked up. "What are you doing out of the cell?"

"Yes, about that...they...found out the story and...wanted to kill me. Especially Dakara, who tried to attack me then everyone else tried to kill me, thus resulting in you finding me and me telling you the whole story."

"I see...well, we are almost ready to launch our attack."

"Ford, you promised me my Crystal back, but it has failed to find itself back into my possession. I need it. Now."

"After we get the Enzyme--"

"No, Ford, I need it now. That thing is pretty much my life."

"So is the Enzyme. Choose. No Crystal or no Enzyme?"

Her hand went to his neck. "I need it."

Ford laughed. "You think you're more powerful than me? You're just scared."

"No, Ford, I know I'm more powerful than you."

"Prove it." He pointed one of the more powerful pistols at her head.

"You know I'm unarmed."

"No you're not!" Ronon jumped forward and put Ford in a head lock, making him fire the pistol. Luckily, Zava moved just in time.

"Thank you, Ronon."

"Don't mention it. Ford, I should end it here and now."

"No, I should."

And thus the fight scene began. There was tossing, hitting, punching, and, yes, even kicking until Ronon was on the ground.

"I'm going to kill you, but I need to do something first." He grabbed Zava firmly on her arm and kissed her.

It was a shock to everyone--especially Zava--and she didn't react until Ava did.

Ava grabbed Ford's wrist and twisted it back behind him, putting him in extreme pain.

"Okay, Zoe may be second-in-command in this whole organization crap you've got going on, but don't you ever kiss my host without asking me first!"

Dakara helped Ronon up, since this seemed to be a moment of surprises.

Ronon grabbed the gun and aimed it at Ford's head.

"Wait, Ronon! Don't," John stopped him. "Ford, come with me. I can help you. You're still my friend."

"You call this helping? I call it fighting," Ford retorted.

"Ford, trust me, we had no choice. Remember Ford, just remember all the good times we had together! Remember the first time we went through the Stargate? Remember when I asked what it was like, and you said it hurt like h--? Well, you were right, but...that's not the point! The point is, I just want my Lt. Aiden Ford back."

"Oh!" Charlie cried. "This is sadder than when Anakin turned to the dark side and Obi Wan was trying to turn him back!"

Everyone looked at him.

"Or not..."

"Aiden," John continued, "I miss you."

Ronon set the pistol to stun and shot Aiden after he let the moment sink in. "We don't have time; let's go."

"Gimme that pistol! I'm gonna kill him!" Zava jumped for it.

"Zava, Zava, stop; He's just probably doing what any good villain does when there's some woman that he loves and he's about to kill the hero of the whole thing," John stopped her. "Now find the Crystal."

"Oh, right! The Crystal!" Zava wiped her mouth before searching Ford's pockets. "But if he wakes up and goes for me, don't miss."

"Wouldn't for the world," Ronon smiled to himself.

"Found it!" Zava smiled to herself and put it around her neck. "Now everyone find a weapon on him; he's bound to have plenty.

Now everyone--except Charlie, John made sure of that--had a gun or knife.

Ronon surprised Zava and Dakara when he pulled a knife from one of his dread locks.

"Got food in there as well?" asked Dakara, jokingly.

"Not unless you want a hairy sandwich," he joked back.

Dakara almost burst out laughing, but then caught herself remembering she was supposed to hate him.

"What was that?" Zava asked Dakara quietly.

"What was what?" Dakara faked.

"You know what...or am I taking up your time?"

Dakara giggled. "Funny, really funny."

"Go for him."

"You should've seen us fighting. It was insane. He actually shot at me."

Zava strained to see Ronon's face, then reported back to Dakara: "He's smiling to himself."

"For a man who's pretty much lost his whole life, he sure does smile alot."

Sadly, the happy moment did not last for long: Clones showed up. Guns fired as they searched for the ship.

"Everyone get in!" John ordered once they found it.

"Hold on just a second!" Zava yelled back, almost getting shot.

"What are you doing!?"

"I'm getting Enzyme!"

"We don't have time!"

"I don't care! There, I got it!"

"Now what are you doing!?"

"I'm putting it on self destruct!!!"

"Well hurry!"

"I got it!" She ran inside as they closed the ramp and took off. "We've got 2 minutes. Go."

"Rodney, take us to the nearest Stargate."

"That's not far--here," Zava tried to take the controls as a shot hit the Jumper.

"No, Zava, you can't!" John pushed her back.

"Why!?"

"You don't have the ancient genes!"

"Well who knows!? My parents could've been the most ancient ancients there ever were! Move!"

She took over it with ease.

"Actually I think her parents were actually descendants of the ancients," Dakara whispered to him as Zava flew the ship to the Stargate.

"Type in the adress!" Zava ordered Rodney.

He began typing, but before he hit the last combination, the ship was hit, bumping Rodney and hurting the ship as the gate opened.

Without hesitating, Zava flew through.

Two seconds after that the large asteroid upon which Ford's dream was laid upon was destroyed.

Just goes to show even a rock isn't the strongest foundation.

---

Zava looked around once they crash-landed on the desert-type planet.

"Uh oh...sun...I don't think I brought my sunscreen," Rodney complained.

"It's okay, we can zoom right out of here...Right, Zava?" asked John.

"The system's totally down. I can't start it up at all."

"Let me try; You probably don't have the genes to do it." John sat down.

"Is it working yet?" asked Zava.

"No...The system's completey down."

"Like I said."

"We're stranded here?" asked Dakara, distrought.

"Yep," John shook his head.

"Oh no...no sunscreen. My skin's gonna be killed," Rodney worried.

"Yeah, I'm with Rodney," Charlie nodded. "I'm never in the sun."

"Well you ladies can stay here then," John let down the ramp.

"Where are you going?" asked Zava.

"Sight-seeing. I heard this place was beautiful this time of year."

"Well you can't go alone. I'm coming with you."

"What? Scared some big monster will get me?" John laughed but as he turned around to leave, a huge worm-type monster lept out of the sand, barely missing John. "Holy sh--!!!"

"Um...wow. Rodney, this doesn't look like Atlantis," Ronon observed.

"Thank you, Ronon, I actually thought for a moment we had made it!"

"I need Enzyme," Zava took a packet and ejected some into her arm.

"Stop that!" John took it from her.

"Zava, if you keep doing that your body will constantly need it. You need to rationalize it; we don't know how long we'll be here," Teyla advised.

"I bet those crashed ships have the parts we need," Ronon pointed.

"Ok, this insanely reminds me of Star Wars Jedi Knight Academy," Charlie gaped in awe.

"Enough of the Star Wars already! Sheesh," Rodney rolled his eyes.

"Seriously. Those ships look somewhat like our own. Think we can salvage most of their parts so we can get out of here," Ronon made his point more clear.

"Well you go ahead; I'm not leaving this place as long as that...worm thing is there," John backed away from the ramp.

"I'll go," Ronon volunteered.

"No, I will," Dakara argued.

"I have nothing to live for so I should go."

"Yeah, right! I have less than you."

"What about that little girl you're taking care of?"

"She's a big girl now. Besides, let's not bring Zava into this."

"Thank you!" Zava yelled from across the pod.

"I was a Runner for 7 years; I can run farther faster," Ronon pointed out.

"Ah, so you did run?"

"I found it!" Rodney held up the sunscreen he had been looking for, then began to put some on both himslef and Charlie.

"Only when I had to, like when my life was in danger. Plus, if I stayed in one place too long, the Wraith would come and totally destroy wherever I was staying."

"Oh, poor Ronon. Well, we can hear your sob-story when I get back. Excuse me."

"No, excuse me." He took his gun and started running.

"Excuse me!?" she ran after him as fast as he could.

"Don't forget sunscreen!" Rodney yelled after them, bit too late.

"Oh, crap!" Ronon yelled back at her, slowing down considerably.

"What!?"

"The sun and the sand...It's killing me. I don't think I can--"

"Ronon!" Dakara slammed him into the sand just before the Worm could grab them. "Run!"

They gunned it towards the nearest open ship and lept inside, collapsing.

"Ronon! Ronon! Please tell me you're not inside that Worm-thing!" John buzzed on the radio.

"No, John, we're both fine. Do you know what we're looking for yet?" asked Ronon.

"Um...no, actually. Zava and I are still trying to figure it out; Rodney and Charlie are too busy putting on sunscreen."

"You mean we risked our lives for nothing!?"

"Ronon..." Dakara tugged on his sleeve.

"Well, no. Just give us a second."

"Ronon..."

"Hold on Dakara! So what are we supposed to do while we wait?"

"Ronon..."

"Try taking out that Worm. Looks scary enough."

"Ronon!"

"WHAT DAKARA!?"

"It's here."

"Oh crap... John, I'll call you back."

The Worm had stood up in the sand and was looking at them, with its layers and layers of teeth that would shred you to pieces if you tried to pass them. Finally, it broke the silence with a loud roar.

"Dakara, if you want to live..."

"Yeah?"

"Run."

"Good enough." They both bolted for a small door that led into a fairly small room right before the Worm dove for them. They watched as it wiggled and shook as if having a convulsion until finally it was back in the sand.

"Scary..." Ronon finally spoke.

"Ronon! What happened!?" John buzzed on the radio.

"We just found out how hungry that thing really is."

"Where's Dakara? Is she dead!?"

"No, but my bravery's draining like Zava's Enzyme!" she said.

"Actually the first pack isn't even remotely finished," Zava butt in.

"Oh, ok, good...That you're alive, I mean," John finished.

"Thank you."

"Do you have what we need yet?" asked Ronon.

"Um...almost. Give us a little more time."

"I thought time was what we needed most?" Ronon reminded.

"Yes, that's why we're working as fast as we can."

"Okay, that works. Ronon out." He turned to Dakara. "I'm surprised that you'd admit that infront of me."

"Admit what?"

"That you were loosing your bravery."

"Who said I was?"

"You did."

"Doesn't mean I actually feel that way."

"I'm sorry. So you're not scared?"

"Of?"

"I don't know...Are you scared?"

"What do I have to be afraid of?"

"I was hoping you'd tell me."

"Yeah, I'm so scared, Ronon. I feel like I could die. Help me, Ronon, help me!"

"Sarcasm. You seem to like that thing alot."

"Maybe. You seem to like that gun alot."

There was a hole in the wall, big enough to let the Worm in but too small to let it back out.

"Yeah, it actually kills."

"Really? I didn't know that. I've seen and possessed guns more powerful than you can imagine."

"Yeah. More sarcasm."

"Does that offend you?"

"Well, I could let it and throw you out that hole there or let it go and this argument--and your life--can continue."

She was stunned by his reply.

"Scared?"

The Worm positioned itself infront of the hole, waiting for the right moment to pounce on them.

"No, you just..."

"Scared you?"

"No. I was shocked. I wasn't expecting that."

"I do alot of surprising things."

"Like Ford?" Dakara had to silently laugh at that moment when Ford kissed Zava.

"No, like this." Ronon, while still looking at Dakara, aimed his gun with one arm and killed the Worm just before it decided to dive in, leaving its head on the inside and the rest of its body hanging.

"Impressive."

"Don't you just love me?"

"No, actually."

"Ronon? Ronon, I figured out what we need you to get," John talked through the radio.

"...Zava!...Actually, Ronon, John and I figured it out," Zava stole the radio.

"Give that back. Are you ready to hear it?" John asked.

"Fire away."

"Alright, we need a sublight engine beam and a DHD energy crystal."

"That it?"

"Yes."

"Where can I find it?"

"The DHD crystal should be under the dashboard in the cockpit. The engine beam is somewhere to the side of the ship. You may have to go outside for it."

"Alright, we'll get started. Everyone else just sit tight. We should have it in a few hours, maybe a bit more."

---

Zava paced the Jumper, waiting. It had been 2 hours already. Her first pack of Enzyme was halfway through.

"Isn't there something to do besides waiting?" she asked, finally.

"I'm afraid not," Teyla replied.

"Well I'm stronger than both Dakara and Ronon put together. Surely they could use my help."

"Maybe, but you have the crystal, and we can't risk losing that," John smushed her idea...for the moment.

"The Crystal? Is that the only reason I'm even here? Is that the only thing you care about?"

"For the most part, yes."

"Well then, I'm going." She started down the ramp, and right before her foot hit the sand, another Worm shot up from the ground, its body illuminating the view from the back door.

"ZAVA!!!" John poked his head out after the Worm had left.

Little did he know that she was unconsciouse on top of the Jumper. The Worm had calculated its timing wrong and instead of Zava landing in its mouth, she landed ontop of the jumper, hitting her head in the process.

"Ronon! RONON!!!!" John yelled into the radio.

"What? What happened?" he asked.

"Zava was taken by the Worm!"

"You're kidding..."

"No!"

"But we just killed the Worm not 10 minutes ago."

"There must be more than one because Zava--and the crystal--are now being digested!"

"Okay, will-do. Ronon out."

John still stared at the sand, as if it would just mysteriously throw her back up.

Above the Jumper, Zava barely opened her eyes to the merciless sun. As she sat up, she slowly began to realize where she was, and that her head hurt insanely. She lifted a hand to it and saw blood on her fingers once she looked. She was going to jump down when she heard Sheppard:

"This isn't happening! The Crystal's gone! The...the Crystal! There goes Atlantis!"

"What if Ronon disected all of the Worms he kills from now on?" suggested Rodney. "It might be too late for Zava, but maybe not for the Crystal."

Did you hear that!? They're more worried about the Crystal than us!

Well, they do have a city to save.

Yes, but they could at least act like they care.

What can you do?

I'm just going to sit here, scare them a bit.

What about Dakara? She's probably scared to death for you!

That's why I'll do this:

She took out a radio she had taken from Charlie and began talking. "Can anyone hear me!?"

"Zava!?" John answered. "How'd you get a radio?"

"I decided to babysit it for Charlie; it was being ignored."

"Where are you?"

"In the dark! Man, this thing goes--oof!--fast! Not to mention it turns like crazy."

"Zava! Are you ok!?" Dakara took her turn on the radio.

"I don't know. I need to get out. Like, now."

"Why?"

"What do you mean why!? I'm stuck in a Worm and I don't know what's happening! Any other reasons?"

"Zava, I'll kill all the worms I can find until we find you!" Ronon spoke.

"Dakara, let me speak to Dakara!"

"What? Please tell me these aren't the last words you're going to say!"

Zava chuckled to herself. "Dakara, Zalbang do kiashta men greffa--Tappa badoo!"

"What are you saying, Zava? We don't speak Cagen," John said.

"I know. This wasn't for you to hear."

"Oh, thanks."

---

"That little..." Dakara shook her head at the radio.

"What?" asked Ronon.

"I'll show you." They went to a place where they could see the pod. "Look."

Ronon saw a little figure ontop of the Jumper, waving at them.

"What--is that Zava? What's she doing?"

"She doesn't like that the only thing they're worried about is the Crystal, and not her."

"I see. Well, fair enough. I probably would've done the same."

"You won't say anything?"

"Yeah right, like I want to. It's worth it to hear John all worked-up."

"Okay, good."

"Now, let's go get the stuff. You look for the cockpit, I'll rip up the floor."

"That works."

"Okay, good."

They split up to look.

---

Col. Carter sat it the chair, then finally the Hologram showed up. "Atlantis?"

"Yes."

"I am Col. Samantha Carter."

"Your people are so kind to look for the Crystal for me."

"Yes, and you are so kind as to let us stay here. It's the least we can do. Except, they are, unfortunately, stranded on a barren planet, and I can't get to them at all."

"I am very sorry."

"As am I. I was wondering if there was any way you could trace their Stargate adress."

"Yes, I know where they are. Some of my people have been there before, through the Stargate. Believe it or not, that planet used to be filled with vegetation and people. Unfortunately, they accidentally created a great beast which killed them all, reproduced, then turned the strong rocks into sand, making the whole planet a large desert with one oasis connecting to an underground ocean covering the whole planet. When my teams went, the planet was having a planet-wide thunderstorm with little rain. Out of the 8 jumpers that went, 2 returned. I have not been keeping track of the monthly storms, but it may nearly be upon them. I'm sorry, but it is too dangerous for you to go."

"Atlantis, they might have the Crystal! If we cannot get to them, either they will die or we all will. We have barely a day left. At least let us communicate with them."

"I shall. I wish luck to you and your people, and again thank you for your efforts."

"Thank you, and you're welcome."

The hologram faded as Sam jumped off the chair and ran to the control room. "Get Sheppard on the radio."

"I've already tried--"

"Do it again!"

---

"Col. Sheppard? This is Col. Carter. What's your status?" The radio buzzed.

"Col. Carter! I'm afraid it is not as well as we had hoped. Ronon and a woman named Dakara are out scavanging for parts, Aiden Ford is in our possesion unconsciouse, and regretably we have lost a female Tok'ra by the name of Zoe and Ava, or Zava as she calls herself. She had--has--the crystal. She has a radio and has been talking to us from inside the Worm."

"So there still is a chance she and the Crystal are ok?"

"Yes."

"Can I get her on the radio?"

"One second. Zava, come in, Zava!"

"Yes?" Zava answered.

"Meet the commander of Atlantis, Col. Carter. She would like to speak to you.

"Hello, Col. Carter."

"Hello, Zava. Are you alright?"

"For the most part, yes."

"Zava had been taken prisoner by Ford and has been hooked on the Enzyme," John informed.

"No, John, that's not the case exactly."

"What?"

"Ford did take me prisoner, and he was 'gracious' enough to give me the choice of either prisoner or second-in-command. I chose second-in-command, and I also chose to be put in the cell with you so I wouldn't have to explain."

"So all those weapons--you stole them from me!?" Dakara asked.

"Well...it's not like I had a choice. He had the Crystal. After you told me how badly you needed, that only gave me more reason to go back."

"I see..."

"But I am filled with the Enzyme, like Ford. I actually feel in the mood for some right now..."

"Zava! Concentrate!" John ordered.

"Right. Well, probably the reason I'm still alive is because I'm a Tok'ra and I have the Enzyme."

"I see. Well, hang in there. We would hate to lose you. You could be promising to the team, with or without the Crystal," Col. Carter encouraged.

"Thank you, Col. Carter. You just made my day. Oh, and to make my day better, would you fire Sheppard?"

"Why?"

"He's being a butt."

Ronon spoke into the radio: "You have no idea."

"Oh, so you're all against me now?" John yelled into the radio.

"No, John, nevermind. I'll see you all back at Atlantis...hopefully..." Col. Carter finished.

"Yeah, that makes me feel brave," Dakara spoke.

"Col. Carter out."

"Well atleast some one cares for me and not just because I have the Crystal, either."

"She could've lied," John put in.

"Well at least she made an effort to make me feel like I was worth something!"

"Ok, now you two are fighting. Guys, stop," Teyla took John's radio.

"Give me my radio back."

"No."

"Why?"

"Because I'm tired of every one fighting."

"Why don't you just tell Zava to turn hers off?"

"Because she's inside a worm, and I know she won't do that."

"Hey, guys," Rodney interrupted, "Ford's waking up."

Teyla grabbed the stunner and shot him. "Easily taken care of."

"Now, I need my radio," John held out his hand.

"John, listen. I've barely gotten any sleep for the past few days. My head hurts, and I am not very happy. Please, stop making it worse," Teyla surprised even herself with her harshness.

"Okay...take it easy. I'll stop."

"Thank you."

---

"I got it!" Dakara stood in triumph, holding up the DHD crystal.

Ronon ran to her, then examined it. "Yep, that's it. John, we found the DHD crystal. Unfortunately, the sublight engine beam is damaged here. We'll have to search another ship," he spoke through the radio.

"Any sign of Zava?"

"No. I'm sorry."

There was a moment of silence.

"John?"

"Yeah?"

"Don't tear up on me."

"I'm not. If I was, it's because of Atlantis."

"John, are there any ships over by the Stargate?" asked Dakara.

"Yeah, one. Why?" John replied.

"That's our best bet. If any ship still has their sublight engine beam, that's it."

"That makes sense..."

"Yes, because if they had no DHD crystal, they couldn't leave, but they could move," Rodney butt in.

"But then why did they all crash?" asked Charlie. "Worms can't have that much effect...can they?"

"I doubt it. It's probably something to do with the environment," Rodney suggested.

"Alright. Dakara and I will make a run for it, stop at the Jumper, then head over to the other ship by the Stargate."

"Be careful. I can't afford to lose any of you, like Zava."

"Thank you, John. That was the nicest thing you've ever said," Zava had a mixture of gratitude and sarcasm.

"You're welcome. Ronon, Dakara, we'll meet you back at the Jumper."

"Sounds good," Ronon nodded. "I'll talk to you back at the jumper. If I don't make it, don't come back for me. I'm not worth it."

"Let's just hope that doesn't happen."

"Are you ready?" asked Ronon.

"Ready as ever."

"Do you have the DHD crystal?"

"Yes, it's placed securely in my pocket."

"When do you think Zava will reveal herself?"

"Ronon, Dakara, you might want to hurry. I don't know how it's possible, but massive clouds are gathering up over head and they stretch out pretty far," Rodney informed them.

"Soon. Let's go."

"Wait, Dakara."

"Yes?"

"Are you going to keep your promise?"

"Will you keep yours?"

"Yes."

"Then consider it done."

The two ran from the ship, running as hard as they could. Two Worms were on their tail, but all the same, Dakara and Ronon made it safely.

"Here's the DHD crystal. We'll head out now for the sublight engine beam. Ronon should be able to carry it. Let me see a radio."

"Sure," Teyla handed her John's.

"Zava, tapush lee dakolesh maka foshula heskasnopa. Daloopa tonkuku?"

Zava chuckled. "Tampalla tooku takiele."

"Alright. Well, Fekarra delinga matu. Dofoa shaull?"

Halgia matoola, faka naku. K?"

"Fine. Thank you, John, for donating your radio."

"What were you guys saying?" asked Charlie.

"She says we might have to leave her behind. She's heard of this planet before. It has monthly planet-wide thunderstorm and the lightning is strong, heavy, and close. She doesn't want us to risk our lives just for her."

"Do we have a choice?" asked John.

"Yes. Just trust her."

"Why wouldn't she just talk normally if that's what she said?" asked Rodney.

"She has a little surprise up her sleeve. Anyways, Ronon, let's go." Dakara and Ronon left, this time with 3 Worms on their tail.

After a moment, Ronon checked in. "We made it. Ew...It looks something the Wraith would leave behind. Skelatons and everything. Except for the fact there aren't any traces of Wraith, so we're good. Dakara and I are digging through the side, trying to get to the engine without going outside."

"Just remember we have 28 hours," John reminded.

"This'll take atleast 5, maybe more."

"Hurry as fast as you can."

---

Zava was sweating like no tomorrow now. The sun beat down on her, making her dehydrated and tired. Finally, she lept down onto the ramp. "Does anyone have any water?"

"Zava!" John was surprised. "You're alive! How?"

"I was never swallowed. When the worm emerged, it threw me onto the top of the Jumper and I lost consciousness. When I woke up I heard you voicing your concerns about the Crystal, but with no mention of me whatsoever. So, I decided to play a little trick on you. Now, please, I need water."

"You are hurt, Zava. Here, let me care for the wound." Teyla got the first aid kit as Zava sat down, and John handed her his canteen; Zava drank almost all of it, then leaned her head back and closed her eyes as Teyla began healing the wound on Zava's head.

Rodney and Charlie were working on getting the DHD in order. "No, Charlie, you're getting it all wrong!" Rodney scolded. "Just because you know down to the atom every stupid thing there is to know about Star Wars doesn't make you this high-tech genius! Move!"

"Well I just thought--"

"You thought wrong!!!"

"There, Zava. It's bandaged now." Teyla stepped away from her patient and was surprised when Zava didn't respond. "Zava?"

"Zoe is extremely tired," Ava spoke. It was a weird sight to see her with her eyes closed and her head laid back but still talking as if she were still awake. "I thought I might let her rest for a bit."

"Fair enough. We'll wait until she wakes up again," John nodded.

---

18 hours left...17...16...15...Finally Zava woke up to deafening claps of thunder.

"Ronon we need to leave NOW!!!" John urged.

"We're almost there! Give us a second!" Ronon yelled back.

Zava sat up; a bright flash blinded her vision. "What the--!? What's going on!?"

"Oh, good, you're awake. The storm's here, and it doesn't look like it'll give up," John informed her.

"Let me go help them. I'm strong,and we need time."

"Let me have the Crystal, John held out his hand.

"John, trust me. I won't be swallowed. Those things would be idiots to emerge now, and I think they're smart enough to know that."

"Well you're an idiot to go out there now!"

"Not really!" Zava ran out before he could say anything. One Worm jumped after her, but it was struck by lightning the moment it was in the air. Zava barely made it to the ship where Ronon and Dakara were working. "Here, let me help." She tore away panels, wires, and anything else, electricuting herself several times, until she finally reached the Sublight engine beam. She pulled it out then ran, Ronon and Dakara hot on her tail. Several Worms emerged, but all were killed either by Ronon's gun or the lighting's hand.

They finally made it back to the jumper. "Which engine needs to be replaced?"

"The one on the right," Rodney said.

"John, open it; I'll put it in."

"Zava--"

"Just do it!"

John sat in the pilot's seat and commanded the right engine to be opened; he couldn't afford the other to be struck by lightning.

The storm was in full force now. It showed no mercy. Mist flooded from the sky, escorted by shots of lightning.

Zava tore out the damaged engine and threw it, the put in the one she had in her hands. She bolted it down and connected the wires together until--bingo--it was in. She quickly ran inside and closed the hatch.

5 hours left.

Time was closing fast. John tried to start it up; It wasn't working.

"Move, John!" Zava sat down, trying hard with her mind. Finally the the Jumper lifted, and Rodney dialed the gate. Zava flew through without hesitation...again.

---

Sam knew there was no time. It was time for them to make their way back to earth, the Atlantis Expedition failed.

"Attention all Atlantis personnel," she spoke on the intercom, "I am afraid our timehas come to leave Atlantis forever. Our attempts to save her have been wasted. Please gather your belongings and come to the gateroom. Atlantis, I am truly sorry."

She shook her head as she went to gather her belongings. One by one as she packed her things, she thought of the memories she had in Atlantis. The trials, the errors, the triumphs, and everything inbetween. She couldn't believe after all of this time and work, it would all sink into the murky depths of the ocean with Atlantis. She tried to shake off her thoughts and focus on packing as fast as possible, but the truth could not evade her; Atlantis and all of their hard work would be lost forever.

Dr. Jennifer Keller tapped at the door and walked in. "Hello, Sam."

"Oh, hi Jennifer. How are you?"

"Fine. I heard we're going back to earth?"

"I don't think we have any other choice."

"What about John and his team?"

"Let's just hope they come through in their ship later on."

"I will miss Atlantis."

"Yes, so will I. It's almost impossible to leave something so wonderful behind."

"I agree. Well, I guess I have to get packing."

"I'll see you at the Stargate."

"Will-do." Jennifer left Sam alone with her thoughts.

---

Sam sat at the control room one last time, hesitating.

"Shall I dial the stargate?" asked a scientist.

"Yes, dial."

Slowly, he dialed. But at the 5th adress the gate dialed.

"Unscheduled aoff-world activation," the scientist warned.

"What's the clearence code?" asked Sam.

"It's Sheppard's."

"Let him in."

The jumper came through and landed and behind it the gate closed. John, Ronnon, Teyla, Charlie, Rodney, and two unfamiliar faces.

"John!" Sam ran down to him. "We're preparing to evacuate."

"Well stop it. We have the Crystal."

The younger of the two women pulled it from her neck and handed it to Sam, smiling. "I am Zava."

"I'm Sam," she nodded, accepting the Crystal.

"I am Dakara."

"Welcome to Atlantis. I'm sorry I can't chat; I have to give this Crystal to Atlantis. If you wish to accompany me--"

The ground shook; Atlantis was nearing her end.

Zava fell...

The ground shook as her father carried her. They raced to the ships as fast as they could. She jumped up. "Father!" John chased her as she ran.

"John, wait! We need you to activate the chair!" Rodney tried to stop him.

"You got the genes, go do it yourself!"

Dakara and Ronon ran after them, way behind.

Rodney rolled his eyes as he, Teyla, and Sam made their way quickly but cautiously to the Throne Room.

---

John was panting as they ran outside along the rails; Zava hadn't even broken a sweat.

John's eyes widened as she jumped over the rail; luckily he caught her hand.

"Let me go!" Zava squirmed. "Father!"

"Zava, stop! Stop! I'm going to drop you unless you stop squirming!"

"No! Father!"

---

"Atlantis, we have the Crystal!" Rodney sat in the Throne for the first time as the hologram showed.

"Put it in here." A small platform rose with a hole inside it the exact shape of the Crystal. Rodney carefully put it in, then slowly, ever so slowly, the platform returned to the ground.

"Zava, please!" her hands were slipping from his. "I can't hold on much longer!"

She hung over the edge with her father. There was no hope for them now. She looked down and saw...buildings, the ocean, and platforms. Where was she? She looked up; John had one of her hands in both of his, barely hanging on to her. She could now feel her hand slipping. She clutched his arm with her free hand and he hoisted her back to safety, then wrapped his arms around her as she cried, remembering the last time she ever saw her parents.

Dakara and Ronon finally caught up to them, then sighed with relief.

"Aw, isn't that cute?" Ronon looked at them embracing

"Good, she's still alive. Are you okay?" asked Dakara.

"I'm fine," John nodded. "Zava?"

She looked up with her tear-filled face, wiping them from her eyes. "I think I'll be okay."

---

People were everywhere, as were ballons, flowers, a table filled with food, and the works. It was a party, but just not any pary; it was the party celebrating the success of Atlantis and welcoming Zava and Dakara.

Zava and Dakara both stood side-by-side, conversing with the crew and personnel of Atlantis as they welcomed them. Most, however, were intrigued by the way Zoe and Ava could switch constantly. Finally, Zava got tired of this and went outside by herself.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" John asked.

She didn't know he was there until now. "Yes, it is. It's very beautiful."

"What brings you out here?"

"The view, and I just need to be outside for a moment."

"People bugging you?"

"They are intrigued with the fact that Ava and I can switch without warning. I decided we needed a break for a while."

"And she was right," Ava nodded.

John chuckled. "Good. Oh, before I forget, Zoe, I have something for you." He handed her a small package. "Sorry if it's not the neatest thing in the world; I'm not good at wrapping things."

Zoe chuckled at this. "Yes, I can see." She openeed it to reveal a small box, of which she opened. Inside was a small piece of the Crystal on a silver heart, connected to a silver chain instead of the old leather one that once choked around her neck.

"I told Atlantis your story and she agreed to it. Thought it might cheer you up." He helped her put it on.

A tear ran down her face. "I can't tell you what it means to me."

Her smiled gently, wiping the tear from her face. "You don't have to."

"Is there anything you want in return?" Ava asked.

"Actually, yes, there is. Of course, I guess I have to ask if Ava will hurt me."

"Why in the world would I do that?" Ava asked.

"Ford looks like he was hurt pretty bad."

Their lips touched for the very first time. After a moment, he stopped.

"What is it?" Zoe asked.

"How old are you?"

"22. How old are you?"

"Nevermind. Let's just get back to where we were, shall we?"

No words were spoken after that...

Only silence.

---

It was a Stargate, nothing different than the rest. It sat in the heart of Atlantis, waiting to be used. There was nothing special about it. It was just a Stargate...

THE END