Author's Note: Here's chapter two. I hope you all will enjoy it. I really thought that the writers dropped the ball on this one, we deserved a bit better closure for Ford, but I guess that's what I'm here for...


Chapter Two

John Sheppard and the rest of SGA-1 stepped out of the wormhole on to Lynas, walking slowly down the stairs. John squinted in the bright sun as he searched for Halling. The Athosian had requested their help so he shouldn't be too far away.

Beside him, Rodney whined, "Tell me why we're here? I have a massive list of things I could be doing back at Atlantis and you brought me here to hunt monsters?"

"Rodney, no one has said anything about monsters. Something is scaring these people. When Halling and the others came to trade, they asked for help. He has other responsibilities so he contacted us, that is all. I am sure it's just a animal." Teyla tried to sooth the scientist.

Appearing from the trees, Halling walked toward them. "Friends, it is good that you could come. The villagers fear some beast in their forest but I fear it is something worse. When I went out to scout the area, I followed a trail deep into the woods. There I found a crashed Dart. I have not told the Lynisians but I fear there is a Wraith on their planet."

John looked over at Rodney but said nothing for a moment then he asked, "Is anyone from the village missing?"

Halling shook his head. "No, not that they have said, but these people raise animals. Their herds have dwindled the last few months, mostly younglings are gone. They wish us to hunt down whatever is responsible and kill it."

Ronan smiled, rubbing his hands with delight. "Maybe it's a Great Cat. They're usually found on planets like this. They're deep yellow with orange spots. They come down out of the mountains when there's a drought. Is that the case here?"

Studying the trees and grass, Halling shook his head. "I do not know. Everything I have seen looks green and full of life, no signs of drought. Our people only come here one or two times a year and we take turns. This is the first time I have been here in many years, but I have not heard any talk of drought here or in the mountains."

Rodney looked over at the others. "So does this mean that I can go back? I mean tromping through the brush after a giant cat isn't my specialty. I mean-"

John was patient as he said, "Rodney, you'll be fine."

Without giving Rodney the chance to add another objection, John headed off down the path toward the village they could see in the distance.

"Once we've talked to the elders, I'd like to see the crash site. Then you can return to your trading and to your people," he added to Halling.

"Thank you, Colonel Sheppard. Come, the village is not far."

John's mind was spinning with possible scenarios, but it was Teyla who voiced the question on all their minds.

"Colonel Sheppard, could it be Aiden, who is in this forest? There have been no deaths, only animals are disappearing. If it is, he may be injured or confused. We must find him and help him."

John sighed. "If, and I emphasize if it's him, that's what we'll do. It's time to bring our lost boy home, but there's a chance it's also a Wraith, who's just not feeling so hungry yet."

Rodney snorted. "We should be so lucky. Can we get this over with before Zelenka gets it in his head to work on some of my projects and destroy them, or we all die. Take your pick."

Teyla's voice was calm but there was a thread of annoyance. "Come Rodney, let us think positively. All will be well. You need not think so negatively all the time."

Shaking his head, Rodney followed. "Sorry, worst case scenarios are what I do best. It helps me think."

Ronon and Teyla said nothing else but they exchanged smiles as they picked their way over the rough path.

A few minutes later they arrived at the small village. There were only twenty homes and a large central hall. From this building the elders emerged, holding out their arms. The air around them was thick with fear.

SGA-1 paused and Halling continued for a few steps before stopping. He raised his arms to shoulder height as well. One of the elders walked forward until his arms touched Halling's shoulder and the Athosian did the same.

The elder smiled. "You returned quickly, Halling. Who have you brought with you?"

Halling smiled in return and dipped his head low. "My friends have come to hunt the beast. They are great warriors and have fought many battles."

Dropping his arms, the elder came towards John, repeating the same greeting. Feeling awkward, John said, "I'm Lt. Colonel John Sheppard and this is my team. Dr. Rodney McKay, Teyla Emmagan and Ronon Dex."

"You come from the city of the Ancestors?"

John nodded, feeling slightly uneasy at the attention. "That's us."

The leader smiled. "Good, good, I am Greylen, I thank you for helping us. We are not hunters or trackers. We do not have the skill to find this beast and so your help is appreciated." He bowed his head in respect. "We are a peaceful people and the older children are speaking of creating weapons to fight it. The elders fear this will change our way of life."

John held up his hand. "We'll do what we can but I'm not making any promises. We may not be able to find the beast."

Greylen nodded. "Do your best; that is all we ask."

"We always do," John replied before turning to Halling. "Lead the way."

Leaving the village, they headed into the forest.


I hope you enjoyed this story. If you can't wait for more I have three more chapters and if you've been looking forward to Academy Daze: Year Three the first chapter up on my site. Chapter two will follow on Wednesday. Google my penname or head over to my profile and you'll find a link.