Silence
Author: Mac
Rating: PG
Disclaimers in Part 1

I sat up in my bed, breathing heavily. Not being able to hear anything was really playing with my nerves. Normally, when I couldn't sleep, I'd go out on the balcony and listen to the waves.

I could feel tears forming in my eyes, but made certain they'd stay there. I glanced over at my clothes. I so needed to get out of that room. I considered trying to persuade Elizabeth to let me take the Jumper, but didn't want to wake her up just for that.

I headed over to command to see Elizabeth was in a briefing with my team as well as Lieutenant Reed. Curiosity got the better of me and knocked on the door. Everyone looked up at.

"What's going on?" It was odd not being able to hear your own voice.

Elizabeth shook her head and mouthed, "Not this time, John."

I closed his eyes and sighed. I know I'd be a huge handicap to my team, but I could also help them up by discussing a plan of action for whatever they were about to do.

Besides, as much as I liked Lieutenant Reed, I just wasn't comfortable with entrusting my team's lives with someone they didn't know all that well. I glanced over at Ford.

Aiden gave me a sympathetic look and I nodded. He would tell me what was going on before they left.

I nod at Elizabeth and leave the room. This had to be the most frustrating situation I have ever been thrown in. Okay, Atlantis being taken over by the Genii was a close second. I head down the stairs towards the Gate and turn left. I needed a good workout session.

Ford found me exactly where he knew I'd be. He got my attention. I nodded, grabbed my towel and followed him out of the gym. I noticed that he had a laptop in his hands. He set it down on a table when we arrived at our destination: the mess hall.

Ford had taken some accurate notes, I see. I smirked at his smart ass comments about McKay. It looks like the MALP indicated some minerals that may help our vegetables grow faster as well as technological readings that were emanating from the planet. McKay thinks it could be a ZPM.

"Thanks," I said. At least, I think I did. I can't hear myself at all. However, at Ford's nod I realize that he understood me.

He took the laptop from me and began to type: You should visit the mainland. Might as well take some time to relax. We'll muddle through this mission somehow.

I thought on it a bit. I wonder if Dr. Beckett would even let me. I guess it couldn't hurt to ask...

As long as someone goes with you, I don't see a problem.

I sigh. Who is going to want to babysit me on the mainland. I think Dr. Beckett could sense my quandary.

Why don't you see if Dr Weir will join you? She is overdue for a vacation as well.

I stare at him, sarcasm evident on my face. I reply, Dr Weir has a team leaving with the possibility of finding a ZPM. She's not just going to leave for a trip to the mainland.

You underestimate me, son.

I could feel Elizabeth's gaze on me as I flew the Jumper. "What?" I asked, looking over at her.

She just shrugs and smiles. How Dr. Beckett convinced her to come with me is a mystery. I idly wonder why she didn't send someone else with me. Especially with three teams off world.

As soon as I land the Jumper, I can see Halling, Jinto, and a few other Athosians heading in our direction. I wonder what they're going to think of my current state. Elizabeth stilled my hands for a minute and I looked up at her.

She began signing to me. She must have read my file, but I had no idea she could sign. I don't remember reading that in hers. John. You can understand me, right?

Yes. Why didn't you tell me you could do that?

I didn't know you could. Dr. Beckett told me before we left. That's why I came. As far as we both know, you and I are the only ones who know sign language.

I smile. That answers that question. Thanks. We better greet the... How do you sign Athosians? ...A-T-H-O-S-I-A-N-S.

Elizabeth laughed. I was sad that I missed hearing that. We'll need to come up with signs for our new terms.

I powered down the Jumper and followed her out to meet Halling. He began speaking to us the minute we stepped out. Of course, I had no clue what he was saying. Sometimes this makes me want to scream!

Elizabeth began signing again. Major Sheppard had an accident and has lost his hearing temporarily. I am using sign language to communicate with him.

Halling nodded and spoke again. Not to undermine the authority of Dr. Beckett, but we have healers who can help if you're interested... John?

I guess it couldn't hurt. All right, let's meet the healers.