Rodney practically walked to the Jumper bay with his eyes glued to the screen of his laptop and it was no different as he sat in the chair beside John in the jumper. It only took about 30 minutes to cover the 100 or so miles to the mainland, but in that time Rodney had identified the signal's position as in a deep ravine. John cruised over the beach and then headed inland.
"The forest looks pretty dense, wait there's a small clearing," John eased the jumper down.
"What?" Rodney finally heard what he said. "No No No…this still leaves us three miles out from the signal….get closer."
"I can't, there's no other clearings…besides, a little walk wouldn't kill you Rodney. For the past three weeks you've been cooped up in that tower hardly coming up to eat or sleep and of course missing your training sessions with Ronon."
"Oh real funny…why don't you get some new material…another stab at my physical condition. I can't help it if my genius was needed outweighing the need to get hit with a stick by Conan here."
"I'll remember that next time we spar, Rodney." Ronon had a devilish grin on his face as he eyed Rodney. Teyla just rolled her eyes.
"Well kids, we're here…let's go and check it out." John began to get up as he heard a loud rumble coming from Rodney's direction. He noticed Rodney press a hand against his stomach as he was searching through his backpack.
"Rodney – what they heck did you smuggle in here, that sounded like a bear hiding in your jacket."
"Oh, just a bit hungry I guess. I didn't get to eat breakfast today."
"Rodney, you should have eaten…you should take better care of yourself." Teyla said concerned.
"Ah-ha…there…see nothing to worry about. I brought food with me." Rodney said as he held up a powerbar.
John clenched his jaw, "so help me Rodney…you better not complain during this trek…so eat two now." John was adamant in his tone but there was an edge of unease as he knew how bad Rodney's hypoglycemia could get especially when he had spent three weeks of hit or miss meals and lack of sleep."
"Yeah, yeah, yeah…I'm already on my second one…let's go." And with that Rodney had his pack on and was walking down the ramp of the jumper.
Ronan, Teyla and Sheppard just gave each other looks and marked it up to another day that would likely be filled with an overly excitable scientist and the rest of them keeping an eye out for signs of exertion…for heavens knew he wouldn't take care of himself, especially with an important find on the horizon.
"Ok Rodney, which way?" Sheppard questioned as he clipped on his P90 and took point.
Rodney already had the energy detector in his hands…and he lifted his right arm without looking up and said, "That way," as he pointed in the direction the signal was emanating.
TBC