A/N This is the second half of the epilogue. I had intended to post the story just before Christmas but RL got in the way.

Epilogue Part 2

Atlantis Base two months later.

John watched from the control room balcony as a team came through the Gate pulling a cart that held an eight-foot fir tree. Collecting a tree was an annual event ever since Elizabeth Weir had given her approval stating that they should celebrate the festive season as if they were on Earth and not a galaxy away. The tradition had continued even after Elizabeth had been lost to them. They had found a planet where evergreens grew much like the ones used on Earth. Not that it had been difficult with all the wooded planets in Pegasus. The botany department had been very careful in their selection, only taking trees that would never thrive for very long in their natural environment. Naturally, they didn't take any old spindly thing. In fact, John noted the one they had found this year could easily pass as a noble fir from any reputable tree farm.

With Christmas Eve just four days away now it was time to decorate the tree for the annual party which would be held in two days time. And even though not all expedition members were Christians, no one minded and everyone usually joined in the festivities in some form or other. It was a darn good excuse to let their hair down and celebrate another year of survival.

Of course, it was a special time for children and with their help, John had already assembled the fake tree that adorned their living quarters. Brought from Earth a couple of years ago it was now covered in lights, glass baubles and child made decorations. It stood in one corner making the area seem far more homely somehow. The kids loved it and the little family would celebrate with gifts on Christmas morning. No crisis permitting.

"A penny for your thoughts, Colonel," Woolsey asked as he came to stand beside him.

John turned to him with a smile. "I was just thinking about how quickly time goes. It really doesn't seem like a year ago since they bought the last tree in."

"Yes, I know what you mean. Time certainly flies. This year has certainly been full of ups and downs, hasn't it?"

John grinned. "Yeah. Thankfully the up times were most pleasant."

"Indeed they were. I suppose we should be thankful it's been relatively quiet for a while. Apart from our unwanted visitor, there hasn't been too much trouble from the Wraith."

"I'm just wondering why. What are they up to? Or are the reports of their supposed hibernation really true? And come to that where's Todd. He hasn't shown his face in months."

"No, he hasn't." Richard looked sceptical. "Well, we do know that they hibernate for long periods at a time, so there is a chance they may have given up trying to get to Earth."

"We can only hope so. Although, I guess it would be just a temporary reprieve because when they wake again they're going to be hungrier than ever. If that crazy Wraith we encountered on the crystal planet is anything to go by then that would be a very dangerous situation."

Richard scowled and rubbed his forehead. "Yes, indeed it would be. We can only hope by then Dr Keller and her team will have developed an improved version of the gene therapy allowing them to eat normal food."

"I'm not holding my breath on that one. If it did work that would be fantastic. It would certainly make the children's further whole lot safer." At least from a Wraith threat, John thought.

Richard nodded his head. Then changing the subject, he stated. "Talking about the crystal planet, I've just received a report from the geology department. It seems we've hit on a really useful find."

John looked a bit perplexed. "I thought the planet was off limits?"

"That valley most definitely is. However after the report filed by Lieutenant Montero, I decided to allow a small team to investigate the chasm you fell down and the strange mineral walls that slowed your descent."

"Why didn't I know anything about it?" John asked, trying not to sound too angry.

Richard sighed. "At the time you were on an away mission. A report was left for you to read. So I assumed you had read it."

"Oops…how long ago was it?"

"Over two months now. It's taken them that long to analyse and test the mineral."

"Right, I guess the report was probably flagged under scientific, whatever, and I didn't consider it important."

Richard slowly smiled. "That's what Colonel Lorne is on base for. He knew all about the mission and organised the protection."

"Yeah well, maybe in future I should read all the reports. Anyway what did they find?"

This time Richard's face practically lit up as he answered, "A Holy Grail for the science world. Turns out the mineral could have some very useful applications in developing better antigravity systems and the like. Apparently it has some remarkable properties that even the Ancients didn't discover."

John looked impressed. "I'm surprised McKay hasn't said anything yet."

"Oh, I'm sure he will once the team send their report to him. He'll probably bore us the death with the details. Anyway, we're sending more of the mineral back to Earth to be developed further in Area 51."

"Right so that means another trip back to the cave?"

Richard shook his head. "Not yet because they collected enough the first time around to be going on with. Oh and the geologists were thinking up a name for it."

"Really? They should call it after Dr Stein." John pondered for a moment. "On the other hand his name already means stone in German."

"No they weren't thinking along those lines. Several of them said it should be named after the first person to encounter it, so they suggested Sheppardite or Sheptine."

John nearly spluttered. "You've got to be kidding me?"

Richard looked deadly serious when he answered. "Not at all."

John just rolled his eyes. "Right. I guess we'll be hearing more about it sometime in the future, no doubt."

"I'm sure we will." Richard answered and then changing the subject completely, he asked. "How's Teyla? I haven't seen her around for a few days?"

"Getting really big." John didn't say anymore and Richard could see how apprehensive the Colonel looked.

"I'm sure she'll be fine when the time comes."

Despite Richard's reassurance, John couldn't help being nervous. Although he shouldn't be because compared to what she went through with Torren, this birth should be safe and comfortable for her. It was just him being overly sensitive. His own wellbeing never concerned him but when it came to his family and friends that was a completely different kettle of fish. It worried him sick. "Yeah, it's just that…well, she still has a week to go but Jennifer says she may have to be induced if Teyla goes past the due date as the baby's already getting quite big. Teyla's not happy about that because she believes in a totally natural birth. Meaning, the baby will come when he wants to. For her own safety, I hope she listens to Jennifer or Julia."

Richard really didn't have a clue about these things. "Yes, that would be wise. I'm sure you don't need me to tell you that Teyla is in good hands."

"Yeah, they're the best. I guess I'm worrying about nothing but you know…"

Richard simply nodded. "Dr Ross has fitted in very well, hasn't she? I have never seen Dr Beckett return to Atlantis as often as he has done these last few months."

John rolled his eyes at that. "Totally in love. I'm surprised he even went back out into the field."

"He loves his work with the natives. However, if it got really serious between them then he may want to come back to us permanently.

"Yeah, that could well be."

"Right, Colonel, I'd better get back to my work. I understand some of you are getting together in the recreation room this evening for some carolling?"

John looked at his boss somewhat surprised. "You didn't know about it?"

"Chuck told me this morning. I know Dr Robinson is organizing it as usual. I guess she never thought to inform me because I was always been too busy to attend in previous years."

"Well, you're more than welcome to join us if you have the time." John chewed his lip out of habit before adding. "Teyla still insists on singing the traditional Christmas song she learnt some years back."

"She has a beautiful singing voice. Which song is that?"

"O Christmas Tree." John suddenly sober and looked away. "Dr Stein tried to teach her the German lyrics last year."

Richard slowly nodded. "Did she master them?"

John thought about it for a moment. "No, not really, the time was just too short. When she sings it later, she wants it to be a tribute to him as well as being well…very Christmassy and our tree should be up by then."

"Then I will certainly make an effort to attend this year as I would love to hear her."

oOo

The little get together was already in full swing by the time Richard arrived at 19.00 hours. The loud rendering of 'Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer' echoed around the room as everyone seemed to be joining in. It warmed Richard's heart to see his people relaxed and getting into the Christmas spirit.

Because of the limited space, not everyone was here tonight, although there still seemed to be at least sixty people scattered around the room. A musically gifted amateur band made up of various expedition members were gathered around the beautifully decorated tree while others either sat or stood singing. Richard looked around for a place to sit and noted that Torren and Beth were currently standing with their father next to Teyla, who was sitting of course. Jennifer and Rodney holding Peter were also sitting near them. The baby certainly seemed to be enjoying the music as he bobbed up and down on his father's lap. Not far from them was a vacant chair, so Richard quietly slipped into it.

The song came to an end and Claire Robinson stepped forward to announce. "Alright everyone that was great. We'll sing 'Jingle Bells' next followed by Teyla's wonderful solo performance."

As the musicians started to play again, John squeezed Teyla's shoulder. She seemed tense for some reason. He didn't think it was nerves as she had done this before. He bent down and whispered. "Are you okay?" She gave a quick nod.

The song was soon over and she eased herself out of the chair. John looked at her worriedly, but she gave him another reassuring nod before moving to stand near the tree. Somebody indicated that she should sit. She shook her head as it was better to be standing when singing.

"This year I sing this song in memory of Doctor Dieter Stein. He told me the song is a traditional one from his country." There was a scattering of approval. Teyla nodded to the band and began to sing the lovely Christmas tune surprising everyone when she mingled in some of the German lyrics. Nearing at the end, Teyla suddenly stopped and gasped, feeling a trickle of wetness run down her legs.

Before she could say anything a little high pitched little voice piped up. "Oh look, Momma has wet herself."

There were chortles and smiles at the innocence of the child, even though John felt like disappearing with the kids for Teyla's sake. Then the significance of it suddenly hit him and he felt like panicking instead.

Thankfully Jennifer was all business and she quickly got up to go over to Teyla. "Have you any pains yet?"

"I have had slight twinges for a few hours but I thought it was just the practice run."

"Yes, the Braxton Hicks contractions. Understandable, but now we need to get you to the infirmary just to see if you are in early labour yet. Don't worry Teyla I know it's a little early but everything will be fine." Teyla nodded as Jennifer smiled remembering Torren's comment. "Obviously your waters have broken and you didn't really wet yourself."

Teyla had never felt so embarrassed in all her life. She lightly hit her friend's arm. "I can assure you it is amniotic fluid."

"I know. Although it doesn't mean you're in labour yet that's why I want to examine you." Jennifer looked over to their menfolk. She'd never seen John Sheppard look quite so anxious even when facing Todd. "I think you have a panicking husband, so we'd better go and reassure him."

They moved over while someone was kind enough to mop up the small puddle. After explaining things to Teyla's family, Jennifer instructed them to stay and enjoy the rest of the sing-song. John watched them go trying not to be concerned. Easier said than done. He settled on Teyla's vacant chair with the kids on his knee and tried to join in as they began to sing, 'We Wish You a Merry Christmas.'

As the evening wore on John kept looking at his watch. Teyla and Jennifer had failed to return, so now he couldn't wait for the evening to be over. Teyla could really be in labour and all he wanted to do was go to the infirmary to check.

Rodney watched him and as the last song ended he commented. "Calm down, will you. You're worse than I was."

John scowled at him. "Never."

At that point, Doctor Robinson thanked everyone for coming and people began to disperse as the get-together was now over.

John quickly stood wondering what he was going to do with the kids. Rodney had Peter to put to bed, and Ronon and Amelia were off-world at the moment so he could call on them. On the other hand, Rodney owned him one. "Rodney, I really need to get to the infirmary. Could you look after the kids for a while?"

"Oh, stop panicking. It takes ages before junior arrives."

"It's not her first, Rodney, he could be quicker."

Rodney thought about it for a minute. "Yeah maybe. How should I know?

Beth tugged on her father's sleeve. "Where's momma?"

"That's what I want to find out, sweetheart, but your uncle here is being stubborn. I want to go and see your mom as she must still be with Aunty Jennifer in the infirmary."

"Oh all right, the kids can stay with me."

A voice suddenly spoke up behind them. "I'll look after them, Colonel. After all that's what I came to Atlantis for."

John turned to look at the new teacher Ms Kyle. "I know but it's your evening off and I."

"I really don't mind and I'll put them to bed if necessary. You won't mind that will you, children?"

Torren looked up at his father and asked. "Where will you and Momma be, daddy?" Beth looked like she wanted to know that, too.

"I'll be with your mom as it could be your new brother wants to join us for Christmas. That will be nice won't it?"

Torren looked excited but Beth didn't look so sure.

Ms Kyle took matters in hand as she could see the Colonel was anxious to leave. "Come on children let's get you home and ready for bed."

John nodded. "I'll come by and say goodnight before you go to sleep. Okay."

The children seemed unsure, but they allowed their teacher to lead them out of the room.

"Right, I'd better get Peter to bed," Rodney muttered. "Keep us informed and don't worry so much, everything will be ok. It was all fine last time and she had to put up with me."

John nearly laughed at that. "Yeah, I certainly feel a lot happier that it's your wife in attendance this time around."

oOo

"Good, I was just about to call you, John," Jennifer informed him as he entered the infirmary. She patted him on the shoulder. "She was further along in labour than we thought. Lucky for Teyla, she hardly had any real pain up until about thirty minutes ago. Now the labour is now in full swing and she's already five centimetres."

"Okay. So…err…when is junior likely to put in an appearance?"

Jennifer smiled and tried to reassure him. "The way things are progressing, I would say within the next five hours or so. Teyla seems to be coping just fine, although I'm sure she would like you to be with her."

"Yeah. I just have to go and say goodnight to the kids and then I'll be right back."

Jennifer nodded. "Alright, you do that. Has Rodney put Peter to bed yet?"

"I pretty sure he has by now as he left the entertainment room at the same time I did." With that John quickly left the infirmary. Part of him wanted to panic and run as far away as possible, but he knew that was stupid thinking. Teyla needed him and he wanted to see his son born. He firmly told himself to stop being a coward. If Rodney could cope with not only Torren's birth but his own son, then so could he.

Twenty minutes later, he was back in the infirmary and feeling a lot more positive. Entering Teyla's room he found her in the throes of a strong contraction. She'd obviously been moving about but now she was bent over with the pain, panting heavily. John forgot his apprehension and quickly went over to her. "Looks like Marc Patrick, wants to join us for Christmas."

The contraction passed off and Teyla straightened up. "So it would seem."

"You still agree on those names. I mean, you really don't want him to have an Athosian name?"

"We have been through this before, John. I am quite happy that he will have the names of the maternal grandfather you loved so much and your father's. Even though you had your differences, I still believed you loved him deep down." John nodded as Teyla carried on speaking. "I cannot even remember my grandfathers as they were taken before I was born. And Torren already carries the name of my father, so I am content that our son will have your family's names."

John felt water fill his eyes as he kissed her. "I love you so much," he murmured taking her hand.

Five hours later, John was beginning to think his son would never arrive. Teyla was now having strong regular contractions and Jennifer was in attendance with a nurse as she said the birth was imminent.

Some ten minutes later, Teyla squeezed his hand so tightly that even John winced. Then Jennifer instructed her to push. As she strained, John felt so bad and wished he could do it for her. As the contraction passed, Jennifer looked up at them and smiled. "I can see his head so he'll be with us after the next contraction."

John gulped hard. He moved at little so he could glance down and watch his son being born as another contraction began to hit Teyla. She gave one final effort and Jennifer lifted the baby clear. He gave a healthy cry as the doctor placed him on his mother's chest. There were tears of joy in everyone's eyes as the little one drew comfort from his mother's warmth.

Jennifer instructed John to cut the umbilical cord as that was something he'd wanted to do. Afterwards Teyla looked up at the man she loved and smiled. She had never seen him so overwhelmed with joy before. Wiping away the wetness in his eyes, he bent down and kissed her softly and simply said. "Thank you." Teyla felt overwhelmed herself and clutched his hand tightly as a nurse took their son away to be weighed and checked.

The rest of the time went in a blur. Jennifer came by a little later to announce that baby Sheppard was in perfect health and weighed eight pounds, two ounces despite being a week early. So all was well and now Teyla could finally get some well-earned rest.

John eventually left her to go back to their quarters with a promise that he would be around again later in the morning. And if it was okay he would bring the children to see their new brother after lunch.

Later that morning and after a wonderful six hours sleep, Teyla relaxed back into her bathwater. It was amazing how it made her feel so much more alive. John had been to see her before her bath time. They had spent some time admiring their son and just talking quietly. Carson and Julia had been for a short visit during that time as they had been anxious to meet the new arrival and see if Teyla was feeling alright. She had told them she was feeling fine. Apart from the two doctors other people had stayed away for now but Teyla was sure the visitors would start to come quick enough, especially those close to her like Ronon, Amelia and Rodney. However, the first visitors she really wanted to see were her children. John still planned to bring them by after lunch so Teyla still had a good hour to relax and pamper herself before then.

By early afternoon Teyla was ready to greet her family. Baby Marc was tucked up in his crib fast asleep as Beth and Torren peered in at him.

"Oh, he's not so squiggly now," Beth announced loudly. That's what she had been afraid of.

Baby Marc didn't like the loud noise and he began to grizzle. John gently reached into the crib to lift his son out. He held him against his chest while Beth and Torren tenderly stroked their brother to calm him.

A few minutes later, Jennifer and Rodney came to visit. The latter was carrying a bunch of flowers in one hand and his son in the hand. He took one look at baby Marc, whose mop of dark hair was currently sticking up all over the place. "Oh my god, he's certainly your kid, Sheppard!"

Everyone quietly laughed at the peeved look on John's face as he muttered. "Well, gee thanks, McKay." Then he snorted and began to chuckle. Not too loud as to startle the baby. "Yes, he is my kid as are these two," he said ruffling Beth and Torren's hair. "And I'm one lucky guy."

The End

Well that's the longest story I have ever written. Hope everyone enjoyed it and if you liked it please review. Thanks once again for all the welcome reviews, followers and people who favoured it over the last couple of months. I can't promise if I will write anything again in future but I'm happy to see the interest is still there. Even after so many years I still consider Stargate Atlantis as one of the best.