9. Chapter 9

Chapter 9
Disclaimer-- same from Ch. 1
A/N-- if you notice mistakes.. let me know.

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By the time they returned to the gate the sun had begun to set. The sky was colored a beautiful ginger and scarlet and quickly darkening. Their trip to the gate had lacked any incident. McKay had grumbled a little at the fast pace. He really didn't have a clue why they were rushing. Willow hadn't really the energy to ask any questions. Her legs were a little shaky and she had to fight to keep her body from swaying a little. She was leaning a little on Aiden. If she knew him a little better there would be a good chance she would have her arm wrapped around his waist and her head on his shoulder. He had nice shoulders, nice arms… overall a body that could easily provide more support than she was currently accepting.

The only part of her body still working at full efficiency was her brain. She hoped she wasn't making a hasty decision by returning with the group. She needed answers and she had been assured of getting those at their base. And even more than answers she needed to figure out how to return home or at least how to send a message to Giles, Buffy, and Xander. Getting to know Aiden wasn't on her mind, right? Willow knew she was lying to herself. It was supremely foolish to do so—almost like lying in your diary. What was the point of introspection if you were not telling the truth? She shook her head and smiled in rueful bemusement at her own thoughts. Yes, she wanted to get to know Aiden but the truth was—getting to know him was not her top priority. It just couldn't be.

"You okay?" Aiden asked the question of Willow. He had noticed her shaking her head. He had been sneaking glances at her during the whole walk back to the gate. He knew she was tired. When he had offered to carry her messenger bag she had made a hesitant protest but had allowed him to be the gentleman.

The rush he had felt immediately after seeing her for the first time, destroying the wraith, had faded a bit. He had dismissed McKay's observation that they had been observing a goddess in action. Aiden was acutely aware of the fact that he was walking beside a beautiful young woman. She was in her late teens or early twenties. Her red hair was medium length and paired with perfect luminescent skin and clear green eyes. She was all too human and delicate looking. He still hadn't a clue how she had generated the fire and destroyed the wraith but he was sure she would enlighten them once they had reached Atlantis. He couldn't wait to return to Atlantis. He was positive they had made a real ally and he was sure he was on the verge of developing a true friendship.

"I'm okay. Just tired."

As she spoke the words, Willow turned to face Aiden. She was aware of his concern and welcomed it. She had never been one to crave attention but there was something about Aiden that calmed her. The idle thought flitted through her mind that he would easily fit into her life—the one she had in Sunnydale. She had the feeling he was trained to handle any situation. And even more than that—he had instincts that he followed. The question really was; would she fit into his? And anyway, did it really matter? Getting to the gate and wherever it led--that was her first goal. She would get to the gate and then head to their base and surely their base would lead to her home. She was just a visitor. It just wouldn't be a good idea to attach herself in any way to Aiden.

One of the Yolen people had led them back to the gate. He had taken a shortcut and as a result they had returned in half the time. Willow found she had very little to say. She had a suspicion she was going to Atlantis but she hadn't asked any questions. She had noticed a badge that read 'Atlantis' on Aiden's arm. She wanted to ask but figured it would be a question he couldn't really answer. She didn't want to make him uncomfortable. She would just have to wait.

They walked in a similar formation to earlier, with Teyla and Major Sheppard at the front. They were lead by the Yolen man and Willow, Aiden and McKay were to follow the group making a horizontal line. They instead made a pointy triangle. Willow and Aiden were side by side and McKay was right behind the pair.

When they reached 'the gate', the Yolen man took his leave. He inclined his head in respect to each of them and disappeared into the grasses. There were back at the large stone circle. What was this a gate to? Willow was quite confused and not willing to continue to go on the faith that all would be revealed shortly. Maybe she had made the wrong decision? Earlier, the wraith had exited the gate and entered this world. These people expected her to go through the gate and back to the place the wraith had come from? What were they… crazy?

"Woah. Hold up. I need some explanations… please!" Willow tried to keep her voice as calm as possible but she was cringing and beginning to freak out at her own foolishness. Had she really allowed Aiden to carry her bag? If these people were the enemy or aligned with the enemy she needed to leave this scene a.s.a.p. and she needed her things.

"Do not worry. You are safe." Teyla hoped her words would keep the situation calm.

Sheppard turned to face Willow. He could tell she was quickly moving from apprehension to full scale panic. He calmly began to explain, "This is the Stargate. We use it to travel to a myriad of other planets. We are going through the Stargate to our base of operations."

"Atlantis?" Willow stated the word as a question and felt her face begin to relax.

"Yes. How did you… oh… our shoulder patches. We gotta get those fixed." She was quick. This was a good thing.

"Major. I am sure the wraith do not read English." McKay passed a self important smirk to Sheppard which Sheppard responded to with an equal smirk.

"The major gave you the short answer, the full answer is that the Stargate is capable of creating a stable wormhole between Stargates on other planets. Notice the large round circle in front of you. That is the Stargate. The smaller stone platform has the D.H.D. or Dial Home Device.
Both are composed of Naquadah, an alien material capable of maintaining an established wormhole…"

"McKay, Willow doesn't have clearance to know all that." Aiden interrupted McKay's explanation. He wasn't trying to hide anything but he could tell Willow understood but he doubted she really cared at the moment. In their current situation an arrogant McKay ramble was only torture. Aiden was happy to receive a grateful smile from Willow.

"Okay. Good. I was worried you were taking me to some wraith infested place." Willow exhaled in a quick rush of air. She hadn't known she had been holding her breath. "Pshew. Okay. Atlantis it is." Willow shared a smile with Teyla. She was satisfied.

Sheppard had begun moving closer to the D.H.D. and was reaching into his hand to find the device to input his iris code and his radio. He stopped and turned to Willow. "Why would you think we were going to some wraith home world?"

Willow paused. She wasn't sure how to progress. She knew she would have to give them the full truth and she knew she had already revealed much. She had already, in a sense, 'uncloaked' herself before them.

"Well. When I arrived here, I walked to this place. I was here when the wraith exited the—the Stargate." Willow was sure this sounded completely believable and the plus was it was the truth.

"They didn't notice you?" Sheppard raised his eyebrows. "Oh right… invisible."

"No, I was behind the big rock— Willow pointed to a largish rock. "Then I was invisible." She mumbled the last words. She was loud enough for everyone to hear. It was obvious that she didn't want to go into a full explanation but each knew they would eventually get the full story.

"You are gonna have to tell us how you do that." Sheppard looked satisfied with her explanation and he moved back into action fiddling with the necessary devices.

"Okay… later." Willow was again content with her decision. She moved a few steps closer to Aiden. She wanted to ask him about the Stargate and how it felt to walk through…

"One thing, Ms. Rosenberg. You cannot take any dangerous items through the gate and to Atlantis." Sheppard caught Willow's eyes in a stare.

"Dangerous? Like what? Didn't you all carry guns?" Willow asked the question confused. It made little sense. If they had come through the gate then they had carried their weapons. Surely it was possible to carry weapons through the gate? And then she realized this was Sheppard's sneaky way of telling her that she could not take any weapons to Atlantis.

"What are you talking about? It isn't like this is 'The Fly' where if you enter the Stargate anything you are wearing or anything you go in with is molecularly bonded to your body—OH. McKay began his rationalization and then tapered off as he 'got it'.

"Your bag, my lady". McKay shook his hand towards Willow, making a motion indicating that he wanted her to bring the bag to him.

"You want to search my bag? I don't have any weapons." Willow inclined her head to Sheppard. "Really, no weapons… except a knife and a stake... Aiden has it. You can look."

Aiden handed the bag over to McKay. He hated that they were going through her stuff. He didn't want to start off on this foot—the I-am-going-to-search-your-stuff-for-weapons foot. It just had to be done.

McKay accepted the messenger bag and opened it. The bag was a standard Gap bag intended to be slung across the chest and rest on the hip. "The Gap? You bought this at The Gap? What the hell are you doing in The Pegasus Galaxy? Oh never mind. Briefing. I'll wait."

McKay reached into the pockets and brought out a silver MacBook laptop, one aged book, a wicked looking curved knife, a wooden stake, a smushed and dented apple, a canister of plain low fat Pringles, two long ropes of beef jerky, one opened package of big red gum, a sliver coffee thermos, and a zippered square shaped black canvas. It was folded over as if it were a case for a book. So far… no obvious weapons. He reached for the zipper of the square canvas. This was the only place to place an interesting weapon—that knife didn't really count to him. It was interesting—but it just added to the mystery that was Willow Rosenberg. This case—and whatever it held would answer the real questions.

McKay looked upward to catch Willow's eyes. He wanted to see if he could read the truth in them before he opened the case.

Sheppard was becoming a little irritated. He wasn't sure why Rodney kept pausing. So far each thing Rodney had uncovered just amplified the mystery. If this black case truly held a weapon and if Willow was dangerous there was no way she would allow him to open the case. He had no idea why Rodney insisted on this pause. Sheppard also had no clue how Willow had gotten here—with her Gap bag and Apple laptop. Weird. And was that the stake she had mentioned?

"I know what you are gonna think. It's not drugs." Willow made her statements in a jumbled rush. She looked right towards Aiden. She really didn't want him to think she was some weird addict. "They are just herbs. I'll explain."

'McKay. Open the case." Aiden, gave the command. He knew he was just the 2IC but he just couldn't help himself. The suspense was getting old.

The sound of the zipper was unnaturally loud. McKay opened the case and found little plastic bags of herbs. There were odd looking dried plants organized beneath small elastic bands. The case kind of resembled a doctor's kit. Weird. Really weird.

"Stinky". McKay wrinkled his nose and re-zipped the case. He slipped it, along with the rest of the things, back into the bag.

"Okay. Let's get back to Atlantis."

He stood and lifted the bag to hand it to Willow but instead found Aiden's hand reaching for it. Aiden frowned at McKay and then organized the bag on his shoulder.

"Overprotective, much? Geez."

McKay was beginning to feel a little put out. It wasn't as if he had really wanted to search her stuff--- but the truth was he really was curious. The bag didn't actually answer any questions. He hadn't a clue how she had made herself invisible and he also didn't know how she had made the fire. She said she didn't have any drugs—but she could be weaving a web of lies.

"Really, it is a long story." Willow directed her statement at McKay. She didn't want him to get the impression she was angry at him. She really understood why he had to search her bag. They really didn't know her.

"I bet. We'll hear it." McKay gave her a tight smile. He was curious, worried, and hungry.

"Hey, can you pass me the jerky." He glanced at Aiden and then at Willow. Hopefully he hadn't irritated her too much and she would allow him to scarf a piece.

"Sure." Willow walked a few steps towards Aiden to get to the bag to retrieve the food. "The thermos has vanilla latte, if you are interested…"

"You are truly a goddess!"

Willow reached in the bag and gathered the thermos and one rope of the jerky. She passed both to McKay.

"Alrighty. Now that we got that settled, can we go home?"

"I believe we can." Teyla answered the major with amusement dancing in her eyes. She was satisfied. Willow's case of herbs squelched all her doubts. She couldn't wait to get back to the mainland of Atlantis. Charin would love an apprentice.

"Ford, dial us up."

Aiden walked to the D.H.D. and began the sequence for Atlantis. The symbols on the gate lit in the usual way. He found himself watching for Willow's reaction. He saw her mouth one word.

"What did you say?"

She smiled before answering, "Woosh."

"Atlantis base this is Sheppard. Permission to bring, one Willow Rosenberg of…" he looked towards Willow for clarification of hometown.

"Sunnydale, California."

"I repeat. Permission to bring one Willow Rosenberg of Sunnydale, California."

Sheppard couldn't help but grin. He could just imagine the shocked faces in the control room.

"Did you say, California?"

"Grodin is that you? Yes! He said California. Open the iris." McKay was a little irked. Sheppard had been one hundred percent clear and here was Grodin asking them to repeat themselves… he couldn't imagine how things would be if they were in a firefight. Bullets whizzing by… Geez. Open the darn iris… for once McKay kept his irritated ramble in his head.

"Permission granted."

"Come on kids, let's go." Sheppard moved forward with Teyla. They walked through the event horizon first. They were followed by McKay holding the open thermos in one hand and the jerky in the other. The cap was under his arm.

"Is that a stable portal?" Willow directed her question at Aiden. She was a little apprehensive about going into and through it. She had only been through one portal and so far she was already in another galaxy.

"Yeah—it's a wormhole. It's safe." Aiden finally placed his arm around Willow's shoulders. He led her to the Stargate and they walked through together.

10. Chapter 10

Chapter 10
A/N
How is it there actually is a Marta in SG-A. Oops. She is like this 15 year old Athosian who showed up in episode 3 for 20 seconds. I guess I should go back and change the name but nah.
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Willow felt her world shift. For a long moment it was as if she were falling and then all was still. She found herself in a well lit room where she was standing or rather attempting to stand. Aiden held her by the shoulders as she swayed a little on her feet.

"Breathe, Willow. Just take a deep breath."

Willow tried to follow Aiden's instructions but the first breath she took made her lightheaded. The second, made tiny pinpricks of light burst in front of her eyes. She was woozy, tired and hungry. The last thing she needed to do was to collapse on the floor in front of all these people. Yeah, she would hit the ground and they would think she was high off some unspecified herb. That would be a great first impression. She spared another glance around her. She of course took in Teyla, Sheppard, and McKay. The rest of the room was filled with quite a few personnel. Men and women—most were wearing light blue or dark red shirts and grey cargo pants. It was definitely a non-traditional base for such a uniform to be the standard.

"Willow Rosenberg? I am Dr. Elizabeth Weir, the leader of this facility."

Willow heard the introduction come from a dark haired woman in her late thirties. She was the leader? This was different but not at all unwelcome.

"Hello." Willow managed the word and a weak smile. "Thank you for welcoming me."

Elizabeth was definitely shocked. When she had heard the word California come through the radio she had half expected that Sheppard was joking. When this Willow Rosenberg had walked through the gate she had been completely stunned. Here was a young woman wearing distinctly western clothing. Elizabeth didn't want to make too many assumptions or suppositions. She knew the best thing to do would be to head to the briefing room and get the truth out of her immediately. She looked up and met Sheppard's eyes.

"To the briefing room?" She made the statement into a question. She wasn't sure what had gone on M94-086 but she wanted some confirmation that the team was ready to divulge the answers. This wasn't the SGC, where each off-world team had to write up a 2-3 page minimum mission report detailing each action they took- with supporting reasons before meeting to discuss said mission. They were living under the sword of and the threat of imminent destruction and consumption by the wraith. The search for Z. P. M's and any viable Atlantis-Earth saving technology could not wait for paperwork.

"Yeah. We're ready. Sheppard wore a distinctly businesslike look on his face. Not a smile. Not a joke. Nothing. Elizabeth observed, worried, and led the way to the briefing room.

"Sergeant Bates can you join us?" Elizabeth made the request without stopping. She knew Bates had been watching the entire arrival scene. Bates was a good man—a trifle paranoid but full of somewhat plausible conspiracy theories. Any off-world mission that could squelch Sheppard's natural positivity could probably use his extra ear. They'd figure this out… between herself, Teyla, Bates, Sheppard, and McKay—what was McKay eating? Beef jerky?

"Rodney, is that jerky?" Since recruiting McKay, Elizabeth had so often found herself asking the oddest questions.

"Yeah! Willow had it in her bag. And this is a vanilla latte. It's still warm! Good stuff. And she can make fireballs and make herself invisible. How do you do that anyway?" McKay turned intense blue eyes towards Willow as he asked that question.

"Rodney." Elizabeth was a patient woman—very patient. "We are 10 steps from the briefing room."

"Oh, right."

"Willow! Here we are." Rodney indicated the door by inclining his chin.

"Here—sit next to me." He was sure to carefully place his thermos of coffee upright. He kept the jerky flopping from his mouth. Each person filed into the room and each seated themselves. McKay addressed Willow, "While they get all organized—how do you feel about the Pringles? You aren't too attached, right?"

"No?"
"Rodney!"

Both Willow and Ford spoke at the same time. McKay could tell there was a hundred percent chance he could get the tube of Pringles. Willow was obviously a soft sell—she had said she wasn't attached. "Oh come on Ford! Do you know the last time I had Pringles? I don't even remember!"

"Later. Okay? Later." Aiden rolled his eyes and twisted his body towards Dr. Weir. Sometimes McKay was worse than a five year old.

"Humph. I am going to hold you to that." McKay shared a ridiculously confrontational look with Ford—especially considering the circumstances.

"So, let's get down to business. Elizabeth? I am thinking light interrogation and perhaps three quarters disclosure. If she hands over the Pringles- full disclosure." He looked satisfied.

"So… Ms. Rosenberg… I am to understand you have Pringles in the bag? And you are from California?"

Willow didn't know what to say other than the truth. Her only worry was the simple fact that if she started spilling the beans, maybe they wouldn't answer all her questions.

"Yeah and I am from Sunnydale, California."

Elizabeth clasped her hands and leaned forward in her chair. "How did you get to the Pegasus Galaxy?"

"How did you?" Willow countered Dr. Weir's question with one of her own.

"I am sorry. I know we aren't playing Socrates here but what guarantee do I have that you will answer my questions after I have answered yours?" Willow knew it was risky to take such an all or nothing stance with the military but she also knew she was right. Even though she was completely out of her element and somewhat possibly stranded in another galaxy with not the faintest clue how to get home, she still had no intention of laying all her cards on the table.

"Firebug has a point." McKay lifted the thermos cup to his lips in a small toast before downing it in noisy gulp. "We could answer one of her questions for each question she answers of ours. And that could take a while—how long will it take you to trust us, huh? What, you will feed me but not tell me the truth? That's awfully maternal of you."

"What?" Willow felt a little guilty. It wasn't exactly that she didn't trust them, she decided maybe it was best to be honest—even though she hadn't really worked out the details herself.

"It isn't that I don't trust you—this is just an odd situation for me. And hello! Suddenly life sucking alien demon wraiths are real! And I am on another planet! In Atlantis—even though, it is supposed to be buried under water. I am going on a lot of faith here!"

"Actually, it was under water—but then it rose from the depths of the ocean when the final Zed. P. M. was fully depleted… and I shouldn't be telling you that. Elizabeth. Can we give the girl security clearance now?" McKay turned the full force of his gaze on Dr. Weir.

"Look, we are stranded in Atlantis—we don't know how the girl got to the Pegasus Galaxy but there is a pretty darn good chance she won't be leaving. There is also a pretty darn good chance we won't be leaving. So why are we acting like we have some big secret to keep? Sheppard? What do you think?"

Sheppard—shrugged. "You have a valid point. The truth really can't hurt. Hell, it might even help." He leaned forward on the table. "Elizabeth, I saw this woman make this weird fire ball sphere thing and direct it at two wraith—at the same time. They left the wraith dead—each with a round hole in their chest." Sheppard's voice fell silent when his thoughts caught up to his words. "And believe me, I know just how crazy that sounds."

The room fell silent.

"And there is also the fact that she has the ability to make herself invisible." Teyla's voice broke the silence.

"This is ridiculous". Bates spoke and put his hands on the table. He was done with these people in the room. Just earlier that day, he had come into Dr. Weir's office to discuss the possibility that there was a spy in Atlantis because their 'flagship team' Sheppard's team, encountered the wraith just about every mission they took. And now here he was sitting in on a ridiculous meeting where Sheppard was trying to convince everyone that some red headed girl in civilian clothing was actually some powerful weapon. It was more likely, that this was a big joke.

"Hey. No one is laughing here. Either Ms. Rosenberg has some power or she has some weapon. At any rate she is from Earth and now she is here—of her own free will and by our request." Aiden hoped he was clear. Sergeant Bates was the one man in the room he could pull rank on, but this wasn't what he was doing. There was no reason for Bates to show this much disrespect. His distaste of this situation and of being in the room discussing Willow couldn't leave the briefing room, otherwise—Aiden was sure Bates would hint to anyone who would listen that Willow was someone to be distrusted.

"Okay. I trust each one of you. So let's start over." Elizabeth placed the palms of both hands on the table. "Welcome to Atlantis, Willow."

"We traveled here by way of the Stargate—which is a device created by the Ancients. It is used for travel between other worlds- planets. There is a Stargate network connecting planets in the Milky Way galaxy. In order to get to the Pegasus Galaxy you need a power source called a Z. P. M. or Zero Point Module. We took a one way trip here about a month ago in order to learn more about the gatebuilders, the ancients and to explore this galaxy. So far we have made a few friends." Elizabeth indicated Teyla with a smile… "and we have awakened a great enemy—the wraith. That is the short version. And what is your story?"

"Uh… Well I go to U.C. Sunnydale. I am pre-med. And I fell in a portal last night. That is the really short version. I ended up on the planet you call M94-086. You see, um. I was practicing a spell and I slipped into a portal. And I know you don't believe me—but it really is true. I ended up on that grassy planet. I saw some demons—you call 'em wraith and I followed them. I was sure they were gonna do something horrible. I conjured a few fireballs and destroyed them. I accidentally ripped energy from this girl—when she touched me and I ended up running to recuperate. She fainted and then got better. You know the rest, right?"

Willow was actually ninety nine percent satisfied with her explanation. She hadn't spoken in a rush. She had most calmly related the facts.

"Humph." McKay was the only person with enough presence of mind to respond.

"Well. Magic. Ha ha ha! You slay me. Really? Magic you say."

"Rodney..." Elizabeth began in a warning tone. "We do not ridicule other's belief systems."

"We don't?" Rodney wrinkled his eyebrows and moved the thermos cup to sweep the room and include each person in his glance.

"Yes we do." He moved the cup towards his chest to indicate himself, alone. "Well, I do, at least."

"You are no witch. Bates is right. This is ridiculous… you are just some girl that has found some weird ancient technology. It is most definitely invisible—which explains why I couldn't find it when I searched your bag." McKay finished with a shrug. "Humph."

"Aiden, can you pass me my bag?"

"Sure."

"Look. If you want me to prove myself, I will. But I have no clue why I need to." Willow felt herself becoming angry. It made no sense. She had been invisible in front of them, yet this man was so shortsighted he couldn't believe the truth. Maybe that made him longsighted. Heck, maybe that made him blind.

"Whatever."

"I am not that experienced of a caster… what would you like me to do?" Willow had opened her bag and placed the MacBook, the tube of Pringles and the spell book, on the table. She had completely missed the looks of astonishment from all that sat around the table. Sheppard and Dr. Weir were more than a little ready to go on a little faith. It was obvious that Willow was not a member of the expedition team and the simple fact was there was no other logical explanation as to how she could have gotten to the Pegasus Galaxy. Really, the only two people she needed to convince were Bates and McKay. Teyla hadn't said much but then she had been convinced long before.

Willow unzipped the case that held her herbs. She decided to simply make the coffee warm. That would be easiest. She took quickly removed the small packet of pre-mixed herbs and murmured the incantation. She raised her hand near to the metal thermos on the table. Steam rose from the container.

"Satisfied?"

"Oh come on. We all know what Arthur C. Clarke says about technology and magic…"

"No we don't." Aiden had to smile as he heard the words spoken by Bates.

McKay rolled his eyes. Typical. "Any significantly advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."

"Oh you--come on!" Willow was quite aggravated. What did she have to do to convince this man? "I have some dried herbs and a thought and poof steaming hot coffee. I could even do it without the herbs—with just a thought."

"Or poof—no coffee." Willow raised her hand and the thermos disappeared.

"I like the first example of the technology better."

McKay looked across the table to see Elizabeth struggling to hide a smile.

"I believe you. McKay is just being difficult." Elizabeth was satisfied.

"What were you doing in that cemetery anyway?" Elizabeth knew she had to ask the question.

"That is a long story. The short version is I was on a mission to destroy a demon—very similar to the wraith." Willow didn't want to tell them she had been on a mission to destroy a vampire. She was sure their tenuous belief would snap.

"Why? You? Is this something you do on a regular basis?" Aiden was surprised. He hadn't really thought of Willow as a fighter. She didn't really seem the type. He didn't want to say too much because he really wouldn't want to offend her. It really wasn't that he didn't believe she deserved to fight—he just thought it would be especially dangerous.

Her response was softly spoken.

"I had to. My town is virtually a nest for demon activity. The police can do nothing. Almost all the citizens have tunnel vision. They cannot see anything that is outside the realm of sensibility. My friends and I, have been doing something like 'supernatural black ops' for the last few years.

"I know of a few sorcerers who use herbs and incantations to channel primal forces. Almost all have little ability."

"Really?" McKay looked quite surprised. "Teyla? Why have you never said anything… oh right. Little ability."

Teyla gave McKay a tolerant look.

"Oh. Sorry for interrupting. You can continue."

"My kinswoman Charin, the woman I consider as a mother, is a practitioner. I must introduce you, to her."

Willow smiled and nodded. She was very happy to find out that she would at least be able to improve her magic skills while she was here.

"Firebug? Can you return the coffee?" McKay didn't intend on seeming even a notch less arrogant. It was obvious to everyone in the room that he was a good deal closer to admitting that there was some magic to be found in Willow.

Aiden had known the truth from the start.

With the word, "Reveal", uttered, the coffee reappeared.

"Okay, now that is settled. What are we going to do with you, Willow?" Elizabeth asked the question. Willow wasn't really sure how to answer.

It was a good question.

"I don't know. I want to help. I don't want to sit all day in a room—playing minesweeper on my laptop. I am good at stuff- really. You can test me and see."

"You said you were pre-med? Maybe you can be a lab assistant to Dr. Beckett?" Aiden looked around and saw the rest of the room nodding.

"That is a very good suggestion. We will have to ask Dr. Beckett if he can make room for another assistant- he will rejoice to be getting additional staff." Elizabeth smiled. She was very glad to have an option for Willow. She knew it wasn't the best situation—but it was the best that could be done.

"Do you have any other skills?"

"Um… I am really good with translations and dead languages. I like research. I also am a bit of a hacker…" Willow whispered the last statement. "Maybe I shouldn't have said that. Um… well, I like puzzles and well—computer hacking. I'm really good. When I was in high school I was even recruited to develop software. I didn't do it because I had other priorities—like finishing high school. But I am really good."

Willow knew she was blushing but she had no real ability to stop herself. She was lucky she had stopped her lips from moving.

"Okay, so why don't we find you a room and let Ford show you to the mess hall for some dinner. You get some rest and you can meet me here tomorrow morning. We can set up some rotations for you to get some knowledge as to how all the departments and all the scientists work in Atlantis. I am thinking it is best you see exactly where you fit and what you enjoy the most. You can treat your time here as an extended internship. Does that sound fair?"

"Yep." Willow smiled. She was glad it all worked out. She was very satisfied to find her place.

11. Chapter 11

Chapter 11

A/N This could probaby use a little editing... Please let me know if you come across any mistakes. Thanks.

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"Alright then." Ford was the first person to stand up. He looked towards Willow and then at Sheppard. "Sir? Which level did you approve for additional living quarters?" He knew Willow had to be tired. He had noticed her shiver for a moment-- after she had made the thermos reappear. She really needed to take care of herself. Food. Rest. Shower. Clothes. All those necessities. Casting spells had to be draining. He had heard her say she had drained power from Marta by accident. Magic seemed to make you pay a price. It was obvious that Willow was paying with her energy.

"The second level has some open rooms. They have beds set up too—ten thousand year old beds but beds just the same.
Dismissed." Sheppard nodded at Ford. He was sure the Lieutenant would have Willow set up and fed in no time.

"I will see you in the morning." Willow smiled as she stood and looked at the group. She was happy to head off to find her new living space. It had been a long day. She could wait for a tour. She was a little apprehensive about spending time alone with Aiden—but she was even less interested in spending any more moments with the rest of the people in the briefing room. It wasn't that she didn't trust them—it was more that she could read too many questions in their eyes. The truth would come out as time passed—both her secrets and theirs.

"Well. That's done." McKay began speaking as he and the rest of the room watched as Lieutenant Ford led Willow from the room. He noticed Ford had his hand placed on her back—guiding her forward. Ford was also carrying her bag as if she were a fragile something and not truly a woman who could manipulate the elements to create fire and hide objects and living beings. How did she do that anyway?

He knew he kind of 'bought' her explanation. He also kind of didn't buy her explanation. Crushed herbs and incantations? Her will? This hearkened back to that crappy hide and go seek half ascended energy monster that prowled Atlantis a few weeks ago. McKay remembered saving Atlantis by heroically utilizing that ancient shielding device. Elizabeth had said the device had a mental component. Surely Willow was wearing some device—or maybe she just didn't know she had it. No way she could make coffee disappear and there was no way she could reheat a liquid with stinky herbs, a few words, and thought.

If he had that power… he could only imagine what he would do with it… McKay lost himself in thoughts of Major Samantha Carter and quickly segued into thoughts of one of the hot and present in the Pegasus Galaxy scientists—with shorter blonde hair.

"Rodney…" Elizabeth was again glad she was a patient woman.

"Oh, yes. Elizabeth." He gave Elizabeth a stare. He had no clue why she had interrupted his pleasant thoughts.
Sheppard could tell Rodney knew he had no idea how he had intended on completing his sentence. That semi fresh and reheated coffee had gotten to his head.

"It is obvious she has some power. I don't think there is a discussion about that. We have to remember she didn't sign on for this. She is just a civilian who found herself in the Pegasus Galaxy. She is not a military recruit or a science team member—so we treat her like an intern—not like a security breach." Sheppard turned to give Bates a look. He hadn't missed the way Bates had prepared himself to stand and leave the briefing room. Sheppard knew he was the ranking military officer and the truth was this posting was by accident. He knew he might make a joke here and there but he fully deserved his posting and his rank. The sooner Sergeant Bates realized this-the better for him and the better for all of them.

"Dismissed."

Bates nodded his head and obeyed. His thoughts were clouded by the idea that Dr. Weir and Major Sheppard had possibly let yet another possibly hostile human into Atlantis.

"Okay, I am off." McKay put both hands on the table and stood. "Anyone interested in getting some dinner? Elizabeth? Sheppard? Teyla?"

McKay made the offer and he was sure no one would take him up on it. He was surprised when Teyla nodded her head in acceptance.

"Cool. I will meet you in the mess in thirty minutes. I wonder what we can get them to heat up. Today is Thursday, right? It is chicken cordon bleu day! Oh yeah!"

"Elizabeth. Sheppard." McKay nodded his head to each before he left through the front door.

Teyla smiled.

"Are you sure you will not join us Major Sheppard? Dr. Weir?" She was glad McKay had given her opportunity to bond. She knew it was important to take opportunities to strengthen their friendship. There was never a guarantee that they would even return from each mission they undertook. Developing the group dynamic would only improve their team.

"Oh yeah, you enjoy yourself." Sheppard gave her a small smile.

"I'll be in my office for the best parts of the evening. Enjoy."

Sheppard and Elizabeth watched Teyla exiting the room.

"Maybe we should have gone?" Sheppard asked Elizabeth the question.

'No, there is something I need to discuss with you. Sergeant Bates has brought to my attention the fact that in the last four of the eight missions your team has been on that you have encountered the wraith."

"This can't be a coincidence." Weir gave Sheppard a hard look. She was daring him to come up with a sensible response. She was disappointed.

"And this time you came across a young woman with mystical or technologically superior power."

"Dr. Weir, what are you suggesting?" Sheppard knew it was just a cop out. He only called Elizabeth, Dr. Weir when he was sure he was completely out of his league. He had no idea what she was talking about. He was completely new to Stargate travel. How often was it expected to encounter the enemy anyway? He really needed to get down to reading the mission reports from Stargate command—even though the Goa'uld were vastly different enemies from the wraith. Maybe he could get more of an understanding or a grip on exactly how a mission should ideally go. Four of eight—these weren't good odds.

"I am not sure yet. But I am sure we need not give out our trust so quickly."

"I agree. I decided to return with Willow Rosenberg because I had observed her taking out two wraith. She wasn't an enemy—and she seemed so completely out of place on M94-086."

"So your interest is humanitarian?" Elizabeth watched as John shrugged and struggled with a half smile and a half grimace.

"I'm going to be honest with you--always. If Willow has some power and if she can figure out how to add to the defense of this base—and if she is interested...I don't think anyone would turn her down."

"At any rate, I couldn't leave some skinny college student in the Pegasus Galaxy. Ford would've had a fit." Sheppard gave Elizabeth his most charming smile. He kept the pout light. He didn't want to hint at too much. He hoped the tense moments were over. Picking on the Lieutenant—hopefully he had sufficiently lightened the situation.

"I noticed that. Is there anything I should be worried about?" Elizabeth was a notch more relaxed. It was obvious that Sheppard had thought through his actions. He didn't always come across as a thinking man but there was quite a lot going on beneath his expertly moussed hair.

"Nah. Ford is too busy for all that—though it isn't actually against military regulations. Have you noticed how many members of the military units are semi-shacking up with the science team members. You gotta have a speech already prepared to advise all on how to deal with this…" Sheppard smiled. He hoped he could sufficiently fluster Elizabeth so he could make his escape. His empty bed waited for him.

"I'll get on that." Elizabeth shut her eyes for a moment and shook her head. That was another thing to add to her to do list. She would have to choose her wording very carefully. Something like, 'in light of the uncertain fact of our likelihood of making Atlantis or at least the Pegasus Galaxy our permanent home—please be advised: Non fraternization rules and regulations are still in affect for members of the same branch of service in conjunction with being on the same working team.' Was that how it worked? A lieutenant and a sergeant could hook up if they were on different teams but if they were on the same team, all was a no go?

She would have to check. Maybe she would tell them something like 'a relationship developing contact—no—development of significant or insignificant relationships is hereby considered acceptable—as long as said development does not hinder the performance of primary and secondary duties and as long as members are not on the same team'. Full stop. 'Example: members of off word team number one cannot date—but members of off world team number and number two can. Stay safe and stay professional?' Maybe she would need to nix that caution—or maybe not.

She really needed to bump writing this closer to the top of her to do list.

Elizabeth opened her eyes to find the office empty. Sheppard had slipped out the front door before she could remind him to continue working on the mission reports. He was quite behind.

Elizabeth realized Sheppard probably had made the suggestion out of self interest. Elizabeth smiled to herself. Maybe things were really looking up for all of Atlantis—especially Teyla and John. She'd always agreed with anyone who said love is all you need.

Willow quietly walked with Aiden. They had stopped at one of the supply rooms to gather a towel, a change of clothing and random necessities like soap and etcetera. She couldn't wait to reach her room and wash away the grime of the day. She didn't feel the need to fill the blank spaces with words. She felt safe and protected. There was definitely something about this city. She felt at home. It reminder her of the old library at her high school—but she knew the reason why that place had felt so much like home was because of Giles, Buffy, and Xander. Willow felt sadness pour over her.

"What's wrong?" Aiden noticed how the mood between them shifted from comfortable companionship to heaviness. He looked towards Willow. He was prepared to stop.

"My friends. I miss them. They don't know where I am. Last night, I was going over to their place for pizza." Willow knew she sounded completely forlorn. She couldn't help it.

"We will get you back to them—maybe not tomorrow—but one day."

Are you sure?" Willow looked up into Aiden's eyes. She knew he really couldn't make such a promise to her or even to himself. She also knew the difference between despair and hope was the simple belief that things would and could get better. She might be stranded in another galaxy but she was positive she was aligned with a group of people that surely tried to uphold the best of humanity. Aiden was sincere and sure they would return to Earth. She would have to be sure too.

"I have to be."

Hearing Aiden's words, Willow felt herself say good bye to panic.

"This is your room. I believe the door panel has already been activated." Willow walked across the corridor to the other side of the wall. From where she stood she could not actually see where there was an entrance. The wall had a thin divider that crack must indicate the door. Aiden moved his hand in front of a square panel.

"Nope. Not activated. We will have to find another open room."

Willow wondered what he meant by 'activated'. She cared enough to add the question to her mental list. She moved her hand in front of the same panel Aiden had swept his hand in front of. The wall slid apart instantly and. Willow moved to walk forward into the room. She found Aiden's arm keeping her from moving forward. This wasn't what she expected. Yeah, it was obvious he was in the military and had all the sexy training but men in Willow's world didn't use their bodies to make a point. Instead they usually said something like, 'um... um... maybe you should um…' and then she would lose interest. Willow reached up to touch his arm. As she gently moved it away from her upper body she felt a blush expanding from her hairline and towards her cheeks. She had held on to his arm for a fraction of a second too long. It had a nice hard feel.

"Woah. I'll go first. This room hasn't been searched yet."

"Oh. Okay. H-How come I was able to open the door?" Willow had put opened quite a few steps between her and Aiden. She was confused but she had been listening close enough to have a good idea. This must be what he meant by activated.

"You must have the ancient gene. This city was built by the ancients and keyed to their genetic makeup. Some humans have a gene that allows them to open doors." He smiled at Willow… "or operate weapons and other tech."

"Dr. McKay is going to be jealous." Aiden passed Willow a grin.

"He doesn't have the gene? Really? I am sure it is just a random characteristic?" Willow really felt uncomfortable. She had been almost copping a feel. She moved her hands to her elbows and hugged her arms to her chest.

"Yeah, but the fact that he doesn't have the gene drives him nuts." Aiden wanted to slip his arm back around Willow's shoulders and bring her in a little closer to his body—but he restrained himself. "Let's head back to another room. Dr. McKay or one of his teams will have to sweep the room and make sure it is safe."

It really was beginning to unnerve him how Willow just seemed to fit into Atlantis. It was like some ascended being was smiling down on him. Maybe that wasn't the most modern way to look at things—it wasn't as if she was now betrothed to him or promised. It was kind of like being stranded on a deserted island with your dream girl. He was getting the clue that he had really gotten lucky—he just didn't need to screw anything up. Maybe if some higher power was helping him out then he wasn't destined to mess up too terribly. Except for the fact of free will… he had a suspicion that he could still freely f. up.

Aiden led Willow to another room that opened when he moved his hand in front of the door panel. He entered first with Willow at his heels. He felt inclined to stop suddenly just to have her run into his back—then he could turn around and steady her—they would be in a perfect position for him to dip his head down and steal a kiss. But that would be far too contrived.

Where was he getting his ideas from anyway? He hadn't thought like this in ages. He felt like he was on some first date with a girl he fancied himself more than three quarters in lust with. These were thoughts he'd had back in high school or at the Military Academy. He remembered planning out scenario's to sneak a kiss from a beautiful girl. Of course the set-up's rarely worked out—quite rarely. And this really wasn't where his head was these days. His grandmother had this saying; ten thousand kisses can never replace one love. When he was sixteen he had been sure she was just full of it. I mean, you would have to see ten thousand beautiful women just to test that theory. Now that he was twenty five he knew she was on to something. Right now, he really hated the fact that things were moving in his head at a more rapid pace than they were moving in reality.

In his mind he felt like he had known Willow for far longer than a couple of hours. He really needed to slow down his brain and physically step back. And anyway they had an agenda.

"Okay, so this will be your room. Let me show you the bathroom facilities and such." Aiden walked forward into the room. He indicated the bed with his hand and placed the bedding on the mattress. He put the folded clothing on the nearest chair and he put her messenger bag on the table.

"The sheets don't really fit—you will have to fold them under the mattress a little. Do you need any help?" Aiden was trying to be helpful. He felt guilty for even mentally plotting to put her in an uncomfortable position. Yeah, he might benefit from a kiss but what would it do for her. He didn't know if she had a boyfriend—and he didn't even know if she were interested in him, at all. He had a slight suspicion but with women, you really never could tell without consulting third and fourth parties. Teyla would know.

"No. no… I will manage." Willow was a little flustered. She wasn't so sure it would be a good idea for Aiden to help her make her bed. It had been a while since she and Oz… and she didn't want to finish the thought. She knew she was finally okay with the breakup but she wasn't so sure she wanted anything right now. Yes, Aiden was attractive and he had completely caught her eye—but she didn't know the man. She'd like to—but she didn't just yet. She walked towards the back of the room. There was a small break in the wall. "Is this the bathroom?" She turned her body towards Aiden as she asked the question.

"Yep." Aiden nodded. "You open it the same way." He watched Willow shift her hand in front of the panel. She moved forward into the room. He followed.

"Standard bathroom. Not much has changed in ten thousand years. The shower has push buttons." Willow fiddled with the controls. She was trying to get the water just the perfect temperature. She found a stopper and sat at the side of the tub to run a bath.

"Okay. I will leave you to your bath. Say—thirty minutes. I'll be back to lead you to dinner?" Aiden raised the pitch of his voice in a slightly hopeful tone. He was suddenly anxious to leave the room—even though he was sure that blushing Willow was surely not going to disrobe in front of him and invite him into the tub with her.

Still—she hadn't said a word and he was getting a little unnerved.

"Oh sorry. Day dreaming! I haven't taken a relaxing bath in like two weeks. Stupid dorm showers. You said a half of an hour right? Yeah. Sure. If you just give me directions I am sure I can make my way to the cafeteria—I wouldn't want to take you away from my duties…" Willow felt herself begin to babble.

It was quite distracting to have him in this small room with her. The steam from the tub had begun to rise a little and it seemed that there was some naturally occurring scent added to the bath water. The more water that flowed and filled the tub the more the room began to smell like some exotic variation of roses. She was sure Aiden had wasted quite enough of his day with her. While she was enjoying the attention and care she really didn't want to monopolize the man. Willow knew she was lying to herself. She actually knew the truth—she wanted to completely monopolize the man. But that wasn't yet a good idea. What was it about being removed from your galaxy that seemed to cancel out all her inhibitions? Earlier she had taken on four demons without any knowledge of their weaknesses and intent… now she mostly wanted to undress and sink into the bath and invite Aiden to join her.

"Okay—see you in a half of an hour." Aiden turned and stepped out of the room. For the first time in a few hours, he removed his cap. It had gotten very hot very quickly in that room with Willow.

He left her quarters in a slight jog. He really hoped he wouldn't run into any other people—he needed a shower and a quick shave.
A half of an hour later, Aiden found himself right back in front of Willow's door. He knocked a few times and waited. No response. He felt a little silly just standing there. One Atlantis crew member came walking from the other direction. He knocked again and waited. No response. It was probably just best to take some actual action and check on her. He moved his hand in front of the door panel and the door opened. The lights were off and Aiden moved silently forward. The light from the hallway provided the only illumination to the room. Aiden moved as silently as he could towards the bed. He suspected Willow was fast asleep—but he needed to check and make sure.

He was right. Her bare arms were spread wide and her body made a –t- formation on the bed. His first thought was if she were in his bed she would have something real to hold. He shook his head at his notion and quietly moved towards the door. He barely missed walking right into the table. So much for stealth and training. Willow whimpered and shifted a little in her sleep. The covers slipped and Aiden turned his head. He had trespassed quite enough.

He escaped into the hallway and moved back towards the hall. He suspected she would awaken in a few hours starving. He decided to head down to the mess hall and wrangle up something he could leave on the side table. His team had a mission in a few hours and he needed to be well rested. He doubted he would have a chance to even have breakfast with her. Maybe he would leave her directions to the mess hall—just in case there was yet another crisis and everyone forgot she was around. He didn't think that would be likely but you never knew with these people.