CHAPTER NINE – Epilogue

John walked out on to the terrace. Toni leaned against the rail, looking out over the Lantean ocean. They'd barely spoken since the Genii were apprehended. As soon as everyone was back aboard the jumper he flew them straight back to Atlantis and went straight in with Weir.

"How'd it go?" She asked without turning to face him.

"Pretty good." He leaned against the rail beside her. "We're handing Pallus and Jarrod over to the Genii government. Ana's people will be taking care of Tay's family. We're not getting involved with their punishments."

He paused for a while, looking at the contours of her face as she stared far off in the distance. "Elizabeth brokered an agreement with the Genii that says the use of Noowak diamonds is prohibited."

"That's good."

"She also made arrangements that would allow us to send people to help restore their reefs." John thought for sure that would get her attention.

Still she didn't look at him. Another long silence stretched between them.

"Why did you dive in?" Toni finally looked into his eyes.

"To keep the C4 from exploding."

"It could have gone off while you were in the water." A pained look flickered across her face.

"Why did you dive for the bag when we chased Pallus down?" He countered.

"I didn't want anyone to get hurt."

"Neither did I. That much C4 would make a big boom." John pushed a strand of hair behind her shoulder. "So, you up for a few weeks helping the Noowak people?"

"I suppose so." Toni turned to face him. "When do I start?"

John smiled, leaning closer to her. "After I fulfill a promise, with Ana's help."

"What promise?" She finally smiled back.

"A night on the beach." He grinned. "Several actually. Ana is going to loan me one of the dwellings on the far side of the main island."

"But we're not bound." Toni wrapped her arms around his waist.

He kissed her briefly. "She said she's taking Ronon's word on that…not ours."

End.

A/N: Thank you everyone for the wonderful comments!!! I sincerely appreciate the encouragement.