Chapter Eight

They were looking for him, Rodney's paranoia insisted, as he crouched in a shadowed doorway of an unused room. There were too many people roaming around the corridors to be a coincidence. They were obviously on alert.

He still couldn't figure out just what was going on, especially as Zelenka seemed to be in charge of what was happening. Poor Radek, he was going to be really upset when he snapped out of whatever it was that controlled him. One thing at least, when Rodney had seen him last Radek was wearing the t-shirt. He allowed himself a brief smile before gathering his strength to continue. He tried not to think of the sandwiches he didn't have a chance to eat. He would need to find some food soon. He uttered a quiet moan and his face crumpled as he realised that coffee was totally out of the question.

After some thought he scuttled out of his hiding spot and headed down the corridor away from the last patrolling pair. He was arguing with himself about whom to trust. It didn't seem likely that Carson would have been missed out by anyone trying to take over the base, but he decided to give the med lab a look-in anyway since it was nearby.

Naturally Carson was coming out the door just as Rodney was building the courage to risk a peek.

"Rodney!" Dr Beckett cried with a combination of relief, worry and indignation. "Where 'n hell have you been laddie?"

"I've just been taking a little walk Carson. You told me not to work so hard, so I took a break." Rodney backed away as he replied, trying to project an earnest expression.

"Fine, Rodney, fine. I am so glad you took my advice." Beckett lowered his voice and spoke in a gentle tone. "Now if you come away inside with me, I'll look after you."

"That's okay Carson, I can look after myself." Rodney continued to back slowly.

"You have to come with me son. Just inside here for a little while." Beckett spoke quietly as he followed, trying not to startle him. He could see Rodney was frazzled and he didn't want to upset him further.

Rodney abruptly came into contact with the wall of the corridor behind him. He tossed a startled look at Beckett, then turned and ran.

"Bugger!" Beckett exclaimed, Zelenka would not be happy with him.