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Atlantis was finally back in Pegasus with Samantha Carter back in charge. The team was allowed to go on missions, and now the objective was to meet new people. Teyla's child Torren was off-world most of the time with his father. Mean time, Ronon and Teyla had started to see each other with Kanan's blessing it was a bit awkward at times.

Before going on the mission John receives news that DADT has been repealed and they won. Carter made the announcement to Atlantis and everyone cheered feeling happy to be themselves. Some groups of wraith still existed and were setting out to destroy some planets in the solar system. Sheppard’s team was on a planet that had been culled by the wraith.

A small number of people survived and decided to start rebuilding they escaped. This planet was Tmira it was very beautiful before it got culled by the wraith. It was a dense forest lot of nature started to come back, the trees got knocked down and burnt by the wraith darts capturing people.

On the way to the village there were little huts made from mud, and stones in the main part of town had bigger wood buildings. On Tmira it was hot in the day so it was nice to find shade, The team get greeted by an old couple a man and a woman. “Hello, I am Sven this is my wife Annalise welcome to Tmira.” Sven has grey hair not much, and a little beard to go with it. He wasn’t tall but was quite a large man, John thought he must be rather scary to cross he wore a vest-type thing with cords holding it together and big baggy pants.

“Thank you for letting us visit,” Teyla said quickly with the greeting. “You talked to us threw our MALP machine.” She said smiling brightly.

"Yes, it was startling to see it come threw the Watergate.” Sven looked the team over taking note of their weapons.

Hearing him say, Watergate made John think great another strange name, for the Stargate to add to the list great. Rodney was occupied he spotted a path leading away from the village to another mud-brick hut.

“Watergate that’s a new one,” John said amused. “We call it a Stargate, I’m Colonel Sheppard.”

“I am Annalise this is my husband nice to meet you.” Though Annalise said her husband John could see her checking him out. Ronon smirks a little seeing it make John uncomfortable.

it always happened no matter where they went. “Nice to meet you. This is Teyla Emmagan, Ronon Dex, and Dr McKay my team.” The man smiles and says, “Wonderful we are always happy to have visitors, however, no weapons are permitted.”

“None at all?” Said Ronon stepping closer to Sheppard.

“Only outside the village not inside the homes or main streets.” Said Sven curiously looking at Sheppard’s gun wondering how it would fire.

“So Is there some place we can leave them?” Said John feeling not happy about it. He looked at Rodney who was not paying attention. The group kept walking past the village, “We like to get to know you folks and strike up a friendship.”

Sven seemed to be warming up to their side, “There is a crate outside the building you can keep your weapons in it will be locked.” Well at least if something went wrong it wouldn’t be hard to get them out of something that was only locked.

 “Ok well let’s do that then and we can talk.” Said Annalise who was moving them along. Annalise wore a baggy brown shirt, her pants grey and ripped. She had brown hair tied up in a bun, piercing brown eyes and fair skin she was rather pretty. “Thank you for agreeing to this.”

She went on to speak, “Since wraith culled our village people get spooked around weapons.” It made more sense so John went with it for the moment. He got annoyed that Rodney wasn’t paying attention he says, “Hey Rodney, you with us?”

“Oh, sorry I, um how come that hut is away from the village?” He meant most homes look close to the village this hut was not looking as nice as some others standing alone.

“That’s off limits Dr McKay no one is supposed to venture out there.”

 “Why’s that?” Rodney says now paying attention to the conversation.

Sven was upset tapping his hand on his leg, “A person who lives there should not be disturbed they are not allowed in the village.” He heard the threatening tone in Sven’s voice make him more curious. John gave a warning to McKay who wasn’t impressed by it. “Leave it, McKay, let’s get to know each other.”

 “Fine.” Rodney said not happy with Sheppard.

Sven and Annalise took them past the village it was dusty ground to walk on. Rodney felt very hot wiping sweat off his forehead, he wore his black shirt with thick cargo pants. Also, Rodney carried a small backpack with supplies they might need. Teyla travelled light with just a P90 and her banto sticks strapped to her legs small ones. Ronon didn’t bring much only his gun and hidden knives. John felt positive about getting to know them thinking hopefully all went well.

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Some villagers come out to see them most look young age, not like Sven and Annalise. Their clothes weren’t great a lot like scrap material put roughly together what they could find, lots of browns and earthy-looking colours. They reached a building at the end of the path that was not too far away, “Leave your weapons in this crate.” Sven says as he reached and got the key off a chain around his neck. He unlocked it as Sheppard nodded ok Ronon didn’t want to give up his weapon, but he did after a stare-down. Teyla gave up her P90 as did Sheppard much to his dismay he hoped nothing would go wrong and they wouldn't need them.

Rodney did the same he was a P90 as well he was rather a good shot now. Ronon went inside followed by Teyla and before Sheppard went in, he noticed Rodney stopping him. Sven and Annalise went inside as John spoke to Rodney, “What’s up?” said John wondering what was wrong.

“I want to check out that hut it’s all on its own.”

“Maybe that’s for a good reason Sven said it was off limits, McKay.”

Sometimes Rodney got the impression Sheppard didn't trust him much, “That peeks my curiosity more please, just tell him I went to the bathroom.” John weighed the options he didn't like Rodney going off alone.

He sighed feeling annoyed being back into a corner, “Fine, however a first sign of trouble you come back and take the life signs detector.” Rodney got the life signs detector out of his backpack to show how prepared he was. Sheppard was looking around seeing most of the villagers gone back inside not wanting to hang around.

“See I’m all prepared. No need to worry. Have fun getting to know them." He smirks at Rodney and John bats his eyelids at him. Damn thought Rodney his stomach was giving him butterflies because Sheppard was smirking at him.

“First sign of trouble you come back here.” He repeated for a second time to make sure McKay was listening.

“Of course now go make nice with the locals.” John glared at McKay for his not-funny comment.

Rodney smiles saying, “Good luck.” He felt the butterflies again John waved and headed inside the building. McKay turns around and starts walking down the pathway. It took 10 mins to reach the hut which stood alone in patchy grass. Some formations in the sky looked at looked like clouds. Meaning there was shade at times but not for long periods. Feeling thirsty, Rodney reaches his canteen and drinks water, he puts it back in his backpack after. Suddenly he hears some noise coming behind the hut the noise sounded like a tool moving against something.

He moved to the other side of the hut past some more grass, when Rodney reached the other side it surprised him to see a young girl. The young girl was kneeling with the tools in her hand, there were two wooden boxes next to her one had water the other had mud. She smoothed over a hole in the hut her hands got dirty, she had long dark hair, brown eyes, and fair skin.

Soon as she spotted Rodney she dropped what she was holding. “Oh hey, don’t be scared I’m not going to hurt you.” He said in hopes that would calm the situation not there was any need. Her eyes went wide she didn’t seem scared, “I’m not scared.” She said picking up her tool.

“That’s good, did you build this hut house?” Rodney found himself curious as moved closer.

“Yes, I did.” She said proudly while finishing up the hole patching.

 He wants to get closer but figures it best to respect her space, “I’m impressed. My name is Rodney what’s yours?” The girl stood up finished what she was doing and picked up her stuff.

“My name is Arianna it means bringer of light.” Her name was pretty it suited her very well, McKay thinks she was very well-spoken. Arianna walks past Rodney who follows her to the front of the hut. Arianna washed her hands in the water and then put it down near the entrance, and also the mud box as well next to it. Arianna turns to face Rodney. “Well, do you want to come in?” He nods yes she smiles and walks him into her hut. Meantime back with Sheppard, they began getting to know the others while inside, they sat at a table that was set up for them.

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While Rodney was getting to know Arianna, the rest of Sheppard’s team was talking to locals. John was rather bored listening to Sven go on about farming. Sven says how he was the best and how he saved the village. John didn’t believe everything the man said so he kept nodding his head ok at the right moments. Annalise didn’t say much just sat smiling agreeing to everything. Sven breaks his words having a sudden thought, “Dr McKay has been gone a long time.” Damn! Sheppard thinks he hoped they would forget about Rodney.

He wanted them to forget so Rodney would have more time, “I’m sure Rodney will be here shortly he always takes a long time doing anything.” Teyla gave Sheppard a little glare she was not sure if that was meant as an insult.

“Oh, I was wondering what kind of DR is McKay?” Said Sven eyeing Sheppard who tapped his hand fingers on the table. Ronon was looking back and forth between the pair, he was not liking Sven at all he wish to be doing something else.

“Dr McKay is a scientist from our home.” Said Teyla before John could answer.

“Scientist. In what nature? I’m sure there are many fields to study.”

“Yes, Dr McKay is very knowledgeable in many fields he is an Astrophysics.”

“What’s that?” Said Annalise speaking up for the first time in a while.”

John decides to give them a science answer, “He explores phenomena through a lot of theory and analysis like the stars, black holes, gravitational waves. McKay’s into a lot of fields and he is a great asset on my team.”

Both Sven and Annalise were stunned both looked at each other, and Ronon decides to respond figuring they might be confused, “McKay’s a genius.” This lighten the mood everyone chuckled even Sven found it funny thank God thought Sheppard.

Hearing Ronon says Rodney was a genius warmed John’s heart, Ronon rarely showed affection for someone especially not McKay it made him smile. “I’ll just step outside to speak to McKay on the radio won’t be long.” Sheppard decides he wants to know if everything is ok with Rodney.

“Of course, we will get food prepared you are our guests.” Said Annalise standing up and walking over to a door that lead to another area.

Teyla stands up as well speaking, “Would you care for some help?” Meaning she wanted to look around and see how they ran things.

“If you want to assist that would be fine.” She nods looking at Sheppard he smiles meaning John was ok with it. He heads out the door leaving Ronon with Sven. They talked about Ronon where he was from and what his job was.

Outside, John doesn’t waste time getting on the radio, he noticed some of the villagers walking around once more a young guy was eyeing him up. John smiled at him which the guy didn’t like he turns his head and walks away. Walking on the path three young men stood in a group. John presses his radio and turns away to look at the hut where Rodney is. “McKay come in?”

“I’m here. What’s up, Sheppard?”

“You’ve been gone a while just wanted to check in.”

“All good no need to worry. I'm with someone we are getting to know each other.” Ariana smiled at Rodney when she heard him say that.

“Someone, who are you talking about McKay?”

“A young girl named Arianna, I don’t know any more than that.” Sheppard found himself jealous of this girl spending time with Rodney. He knew it was stupid considering Rodney said the girl was young that was something.

“Well, that’s good. Sven was asking questions about you, so don’t be too long ok?” There was a pause John notices three younger men he saw before starting to head down the path towards him hopefully they just ignored him.

“No worries Sheppard. I’ll be there soon or you could come here.”

“Maybe not Sven and Annalise are preparing food for us. They might get suspicious if I leave.”

“Food?” Said Rodney feeling hungry himself. Arianna was straightening out her hut like the blankets she slept on and sweeping the floor.

“Yes, food I’m not sure what kind of food though.”

“Oh, ok well maybe save some for me I’ve got some power bars on me.” John chuckled to himself Rodney was always thinking about his stomach and food. On Atlantis most of the time he noticed that Rodney would always be eating a power bar or sandwich something.

“Maybe talk to you later. I’ll keep lying about why you’re not here.” McKay rolled his eyes as he watched Arianna playing with what looked like a stuffed toy but sewn together.

John was getting worried about these younger men looking at him, Rodney spoke breaking him out of his thoughts. “Bye stay safe.”

He was hoping that they would indeed stay safe and nothing goes wrong. That was short-lived when the three men approach John wanting to chat with him. Meantime, while inside Teyla was with Annalise in a small room helping to prepare food with another young woman.

“So you like cooking you seem very good at it?” Teyla sees Annalisa with the other woman whose name is Serena, cooking they looked to be making some bread it looked like.

The other woman Serena long blond hair, blue eyes and fair skin also very slim. Serena wore an ugly-looking dress Teyla could see marks on it. Annalise spoke while starting a small fire on the fireplace, they had in the room. “Cooking is rather relaxing most of us enjoy it.”

“It is good you enjoy things like cooking. I have tried but I’m afraid, I’m not good at it.” Back on Atlantis, Teyla tried cooking with the help of the chefs there, but she flopped whenever it came to baking or frying something.

Before any further conversation happened they heard yelling from Ronon. He was yelling at Sven in the other room as he insulted McKay. Normally Ronon didn’t care but this time Sven went too far and he wanted to take a stand. Sheppard heard the yelling he excused himself from talking to them, other men asking him questions outside he was thankful for a distraction. John goes inside the building, and shuts the door he sees an angry Ronon push Sven on his shoulders and stumbled backwards just a little.

He quickly moves forward to stop Ronon who glares at him, “Back off Sheppard.” John stood firm in his spot not wanting to make things worse. Ronon gets himself sorted out just as Teyla and the ladies come in to see what was going on.

Meantime back with Rodney, he was having such a nice time with Arianna he sat down next to her hoping she would talk more.

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Rodney was having a good time with Arianna she was more relaxed around him. “Are you on good terms with the others in the village?” Said McKay as Arianna sat casually on her blankets. He decides to do the same though it would hurt later. Sitting on the floor was no fun that's why Rodney always picked to lay on the floor not this time though.

“No,” Arianna said not looking at Rodney. She has a rather serious look on her face Rodney asked,

“Why’s that ” It was just the two of them in her little hut, still it was very warm inside she speaks,

“They just don’t like me.” He frowns thinking how could they not like a sweet innocent girl, Rodney was starting not to like them.

“I can’t imagine people not liking you.’ Arianna looked up at him her eyes going wide. Rodney was sad when he said people didn’t like him. It was true even now he didn’t understand why Sheppard and the team liked him. “I have a few people who don’t like me.”

“Really?” He nods his head yes, ”I guess because I saved them and I’m different.”

“Smart is cool I’m very smart myself.” She smiled at him as he went on. “What did you mean about being different and saving them?”

He thought at least it was easy to have a contestation with her, Arianna stared at her doll it didn’t have a face just plain she spoke, “When the wraith came I told them where to hide.”

“Oh well, that was very smart of you.”

“Yes, there are caves in the forest my parents told me to hide but I didn’t.” Arianna’s face was sad as she looks down at her doll. Rodney was impressed she was well-spoken for her age it showed. Arianna also kept touching her neck and playing with a necklace she wore.

“Did you go into the village when the wraith came?” Asked Rodney shifting his legs around.

She nods yes taking a minute before speaking, “I told the villagers to go hide. I wanted to help but my parents couldn’t find me. I heard them yelling out I didn’t listen.” Her voice breaks as she spoke sadness evident over what happened.

“I’m sorry you did a good thing saving the others.”

“I didn’t save everyone.” She stood up dropping her doll. “My parents saw me running in the village as they came to get me a dart got them.” Rodney hates that Arianna has to carry this guilt with her it was heartbreaking.

“It wasn’t your fault you did the best you could.”

“After they got taken my necklace started to glow.” Rodney’s eyes lit up hearing that, “A bright light shone out around the village and when the light went away so did the wraith.”

“The men in the village said I was evil.” Arianna had tears forming in her eyes, she was trying to be brave while telling her story Rodney didn’t know how to react. “What happened after that you can tell me anything?”

“He hurts me.” This made Rodney angry he saw Arianna grab her arm, “He said I have to be banished and the others all agreed.”

Rodney moved closer to the girl, placing his hand on her shoulder while calmly looking at her. “I promise you no one will ever hurt you again while I’m here.” The girl was surprised this stranger was listening and understanding her. In a few brief moments she was hugging Rodney and he hugged her back.

She had been brave for so long and losing her parents left such a hole inside her. Being an outcast was the hardest thing like she was left dancing on her own. With John and the others, he stood between an angry Ronon and Sven. The tension was thick, John was trying to hold Ronon back with his hand Sven seem rather shocked.

Sheppard didn’t understand what could have changed, before he left everything was ok. Teyla and Annalise came out of the room from preparing food to see what was going on. “Ronon wanna tell me what’s going on?” Sheppard as calmly as possible to ease tension.

“He insulted McKay.” He didn’t expect Ronon to be so forthcoming. It surprises him to hear Ronon was offended by someone insulting McKay.

“What did he say?” Said Sheppard wanting to know what Sven said.

“That McKay shouldn’t be here, it was best when he comes back to leave.” Sven looked mad now hearing Ronon say the truth about what he said.

“I thought it was cool. We told you McKay’s a genius we all laughed.” Teyla wanted to interject and have her say but she decided to bite her tongue. Annalise looks embarrassed by the whole situation she didn’t want to get involved.

Sven throws up his hands in frustration and John sighs, “Ronon you and me outside now?”

He doesn’t want to yell at them but John wants Ronon to cool down. After a few more minutes of death glares at Sven, hearing grunts and huffs while stomping Ronon goes outside with John. Outside Ronon begins pacing around trying to get his anger out, “How dare he I don’t like him.”

“I got that do you think McKay will be in danger coming back here?”

Looking directly at John with honest eyes, Ronon says. “Yes, I do?” John gets it Rodney is not safe they would have to watch him to make sure no one hurts him.

“Understood we’ll just have to watch him better McKay come in.” He says pressing his radio that makes Ronon stop pacing around. The village was empty they must have gone to their huts or inside some of the other buildings.

“I’m here what’s up?”

“There’s an issue. I don’t think it will be safe for you to come back here.”

“WHAT?”

“Don’t yell I’m going to come to you and explain what’s going on.”

“Fine, remember I’m here with Arianna. She told me her story it’s heartbreaking.” Oh, great this makes him feel sad for the girl with a heartbreaking story he would find out soon.

Ronon is still listening to the conversation, “Of course see you soon.” He presses the off button and turns back to face Ronon.

“You are not leaving me here alone with him.”

“Ronon you won’t be alone, Teyla will be here as well. I need them distracted.” He leans up against one of the wooden pillars holding up the building. Ronon didn’t look so impressed with the whole plan seeming John was the leader he went it with.

“Don’t be surprised if I can’t hold back my temper.”

“If things go wrong you have my full permission to go for it until then relax,” Sheppard said with a little smirk on his face, it made Ronon chuckle.

“Go be with McKay you should tell him your feelings, why you are at it.”

Coughing in shock John blushes, “WHAT.” Ronon smirks feeling proud of himself.

“You heard me, Sheppard.”

“I don’t have feelings for McKay you are insane.” Evidence was on Sheppard’s face he did have some kind of feelings for Rodney. Over time Ronon had noticed little things, like how John would always look at Rodney, or how he want to only sleep next to him on missions.

“Can’t hide from me besides I’m all for it, you are a good match.” He was surprised to hear Ronon speak so much, crap ok breathe he said to himself to stop from freaking out. Suddenly John has an idea for a comeback, “Just like you and Teyla.” Ronon blushes looking away hoping that Sheppard didn’t notice. He kissed Teyla a few times and even stayed over in her room back on Atlantis.

Things get complicated when Torren’s father stayed in Atlantis, even though he was ok with it all still it felt weird when they all are together. Ronon thinks taking a while to answer, “Yeah, well at least we are doing something about it.”

He couldn’t argue with that John just smiles, “True ok, I should so go now. Can you tell the others where I went if there’s trouble radio on me?” Ronon nods ok and still adds his two cents in.

“What if Sven asks where you are going?”

“Tell him I went to get Rodney and take him home that way it gives us time.” Ronon thinks this could all go wrong he speaks tentatively. “Good should get going now, McKay’s waiting.”

John playfully whacks Ronon’s arm he shoves him away, John stumbles a little. He starts walking away up the path to the hut. Ronon makes his way inside only to find that Teyla is passed out on the floor next to Annalise, suddenly Sven is hitting him in the face and his world goes dark.

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John reached the hut it didn’t take him long to get there, he had motivation as he was so hot. John presses his radio, “McKay I’m outside.” He didn’t want to hang around outside too long in the heat so he was just going to walk in but didn’t want to scare anyone. Inside they both sat on the floor together there wasn’t much else to do. Arianna looked at Rodney when she heard the radio crackle. “Who’s that?”

“That’s my teammate. I was talking to him earlier do you remember?” She looks worried like something terrible was going to happen. “Oh.”

McKay uses a calm voice to respond, “Don’t worry he is really nice.” Arianna nods feeling better about a new person coming into her hut. “You can come in Sheppard.” He said not wanting to get up and let him in, there wasn’t much of a door you didn’t even have to open it. John makes his way in and looks around once inside, he notices it was small not much around the hut.

There were blankets on the floor in a nice neat pile. Arianna straighten up as she spoke to Rodney. In the middle of the room was a wooden table in the corner, no chairs as it was small you could sit down on the ground. The roof wasn’t high it was made out of mud bits of wood, grass and leaves holding it together a few gaps in the wall the sunshine came in.

“McKay, see you made a new friend. I’m John.” Rodney gave him a look to say she is a young girl and she is immune to your charms Kirk. He ignored Rodney’s look sits down on the ground which was very uncomfortable.

“Sheppard this is Arianna.” He smiles again, “Nice to meet you, young lady.” John thinks about why the words young lady came out of his mouth. He holds out his hand she stares back at him unsure what to do with his hand.

McKay decided to demonstrate. He took John’s hand and shook it showing her how to do it. She smiles watching them it appeared funny to her, they broke the handshake she wanted to try. "Oh, you are supposed to shake it.”

Arianna took John’s hand shaking it everyone smiles. “Ronon’s distracting Sven for me.” Arianna looks scared hearing John say the man's name she backed away. “Hey, it’s ok what’s wrong?” Rodney moves forward trying to calm her down.

“Nothing.” Arianna said grabbing a hold of her necklace. It starts glowing making the hut vibrate Rodney felt concerned as did Sheppard.

“Arianna, Sven or whoever you are scared of, won’t hurt you we can protect you.” Her necklace still glows the light starts to get smaller eventually it goes away. Rodney surmised that it was triggered by emotion so when Arianna was feeling safe the light went away.

“What was that.” Said Sheppard staring at the girl.

Rodney was trying not to freak out about what just happened, “The necklace glows and it vibrates maybe it’s ancient.” Rodney’s brain went into overdrive wondering if others could feel the vibration or just them. “Are we safe?” John said calmly so as not to scare Arianna.

“Yes, now it’s stopped glowing we should be," she was scared and looks at her necklace. "Arianna who gave you that necklace?” Said Rodney thinking now was the time to find out more about this mystery necklace that would glow.

“My mother gave me this a long time ago.” She picks up her doll holding it tightly in a hug. “When I was born she said it would protect me.”

“Protect you how?” said Rodney urging her to go on which thankfully she did.

The room was tenser than before Sheppard listened, “If the enemy was to come, the necklace would protect me and the others.” If it still worked how did it now stop Sven from hurting Arianna it made Rodney scared in more ways than one.

“I don’t understand. It should have protected you from getting hurt before.” John’s unsure exactly what Rodney meant by that. The girl didn’t answer only said a couple of words, “I want to rest now.” Arianna lays down on the blankets on the floor. John signals to Rodney to let the girl rest, he and John go outside to talk on their own for a bit.

End Part 1

Chapter Text

Ronon and Teyla got tied up by Sven who kept them in another tiny room. They took their radios so they couldn’t answer Sheppard. Tension grew with Ronon who was angry and Teyla felt a lot more confused about why Sven and his wife would do this. “This sucks it’s always happened to us.” Said an angry Ronon trying to untie himself not having much luck with it. Thinking more times out of none they get captured by the enemy a lot,

“I must it admit it does but we always find a way out.”

“I guess so why do you think he did this?” They got tied up with a wooden stick and ropes tightly, bound behind them hard to get free from.

Teyla had been trying to get her hands free. “Probably something to do with Rodney when we started talking about him.”

It was hard to believe that was the reason but there could be more. “I don’t think it’s him maybe they are hiding some technology.”

“Not a bad theory. How do we get out of these restraints they're pretty tight?” Ronon smirks at Teyla. He uses his hand which is half free to pull out a hidden knife he kept in his pants. So Ronon went on cutting himself free then he cut Teyla free.

Back with John and Rodney before they went outside. Ariana got restless and couldn’t fall asleep, she asked Rodney to sing her a song which he is not sure about doing. It didn't take long before Rodney moves and sits down on the floor with her she gets comfortable. John followed them unsure what else to do he sat down as well.

“Please sing my mother use to sing to me.” Said Ariana clutching her doll toy and staring happily.

Rodney sighs knowing he wouldn’t be able to say no. “I know one song my mother sang when I was little it’s called Nino Linda which means Pretty Baby.” Rodney glances at John who eagerly waits to hear Rodney sing. He takes a deep breath in and starts singing the first verse.

Duérmete niño linda
En los brazos del amor
Que te arrolla tu madre
Cantándote alarru
Alarru, alame
Alarru, alame
Alarru, alarru, alame

It takes John completely by surprise to hear Rodney sing beautifully, in Spanish of all things. The song sounded pretty Rodney had a deep voice in parts and high in some John wondered what it meant. Arianna’s eyes started closing on and off she was very interested in the song.

Oh, hush, my pretty baby
Sleeping in the arms of love
While I sing this song to you
A lullaby from above
Alarru, alame
Alarru, alame
Alarru, alarru, alame.

The song's melody was soft by the end of it Arianna was seemingly asleep. She looked peaceful Rodney pulls the blanket on her higher. John stood up giving his hand to help Rodney up and they both head outside to talk. Once outside the sun was blazing even hotter than when they arrived so they stood where they could find shade near the hut.

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They stand together outside the hut, “You can sing?” John said feeling happy that he just got to hear Rodney sing a song. “Surprise!” He said trying to make it sound like it wasn't, such a big deal but his surprise failed. “I realised how much I missed it.” In Atlantis, Rodney didn't have much time to do anything with music. Sometimes he wishes there was a grand piano or something there so he could play out his feelings.

John moves closer to him, “Rodney you have a great voice.“ He smiles happily at John feeling good he knows about this part of him. “I love to hear more sometime,” John said earnestly as he waits it seem like a long moment before anything happens.

He nods ok before speaking. “Yeah maybe.” Rodney changes the subject back to the girl. Meeting this girl there was something about her she was different, but Rodney found himself attached to her it was good he hoped it didn't end badly. “I’m concerned about that necklace it activated when her emotions come into play.”

“I noticed it too I can see she is scared by Sven.”

“Yeah, guess he hurt her once I don’t know why the necklace wouldn’t protect her?”

“Maybe it only protects against the wraith, not humans.” A lightbulb goes off in Rodney’s brain thinking it made a lot of sense. Being a genius Rodney knew there was more to the necklace's powers than just that. “Oh, I guess that makes sense, shouldn't we go and check on the others?”

“I’m sure Teyla and Ronon are just fine. Well, there is something I want to talk about.” Rodney raises his eyebrows at John who gave a little smirk. Suddenly, Rodney could feel his heartbeat going crazy at the way Sheppar was looking at him.

“What’s that?” He says wiping sweat off his forehead, “I’ve pushed this away for a while now, DADT gone I’m free to discuss it.”

“John you can talk to me, I would never judge you.” John stares at his feet getting more nervous like his words would betray him.

“I know, what I wanted to say is oh the hell with it.” He kisses Rodney suddenly, John pushes him up against the hut as uniforms make their bodies uncomfortable together. He nibbles Rodney’s lower lip asking for entry sucking it. Rodney gasps adding another hot moan trying to not be so loud. John cups Rodney’s ass his other hand sneaks into his shirt feeling Rodney’s smooth skin. He knows it wasn’t the right time to get down and dirty, as Arianna slept inside the hut well he hoped she did. Rodney feels like he is floating on cloud 9 where everything felt effortless it was the most amazing kiss he ever had.

They broke apart when the two needed some air Rodney speaks, “Wow should have known you to be a great kisser, Kirk.” This makes John lean in kissing him again. He still hadn’t found his words yet this kiss is just as hot. When they stop faces are flushed he and Rodney both blush.

“Thanks you kiss great too,” Rodney smirks John's hand on Rodney’s ass holding it firm, though it's the only thing keeping him standing. “John you have the worst timing. You could have done this back home in my quarters.” John decides to agree saying the perfect thing back, “When you are right you are right.” He said giving a small chuckle at Rodney's canary look.

“Oh God! Stop the expressions we should go check the others.” Rodney gets distracted by John squeezing his ass. “Mm, John.” It was all Rodney could say until John, stops playing with his ass it felt so good. “Yeah you are right but what about Arianna?”

“We should take her with us and see what happens when we get there.” John didn’t know if that was such a good idea. He knew if something big was to happen. It wouldn’t take much for them all to escape so that was something.

“Ok, we keep her close if this goes bad we get out.” Rodney nods and leans in kissing John again who meets him halfway. They break apart by the sounds of faraway gunfire. It sounds like Ronon’s pulse gun it was faint but John knew the sounds. They stop kissing and quickly go inside to wake up, Arianna who woke up as they came in. “What’s wrong?” She said while straightening up her bedding neatly.

“It’s our friends they are trouble please come with us?” There was no way Rodney was going to leave her behind.

John watched them interact as he tries to get Ronon on the radio. “Ronon, Teyla please come in what’s going on?” No answer only static, Arianna wore the same outfit she tidied herself up a lot she like to be neat. John tries not to panic as Rodney tried to get the girl to calm down.

“The others may hurt me again.” Rodney comes up by her side and holds her shoulder speaking.

“We can protect you. I won’t let anyone touch you or treat you badly ever again.” She seems to be convinced by that and nods her head yes. He smiles telling them they need to hurry it was going to be hard if they had to fight to keep Arianna safe. They gather a few things for Arianna her knapsack she likes to carry, John gives Rodney a serious look saying they have to hurry and they all head out the door.

Chapter Text

John, Rodney and Arianna go back to the village, once they got there were no signs of Ronon and Teyla which made John worry. Despite hearing the weapon earlier now nothing, there were no signs of a fight or struggle anywhere. Arianna acts scared straight away she stays behind Rodney who watching out for danger. Sven comes out of the house with two not overly large men, no wife his face clear with temper flaring when he sees the girl with John and Rodney. “She is not welcome you broke the rules.” He sneered at Arianna who got closer to Rodney.

“Yeah, we did she is just a little girl. Why are you so afraid of her?” Said John as he went on. “What about our friends we heard weapons fire, I can see Ronon’s gun is gone.” He looks at the crate that had been busted open smirking a little to himself Sven answers.

“Your friends caused a ruckus so we tied them up. That one you called Ronon broke free.” Sven said not caring about Ronon or Teyla.

“I heard his weapon, I see no sign of fire what about Teyla?” Sven gets impatient having to tell the story, he scares Arianna with his looks Sven stares at John. He was assessing the situation not sure what his move should be.

“Teyla's with Ronon he fired the shot in the air my men chase them away. I want the child out of here she is causing a stir.” He was right she was outside people start to look.

Suddenly Sven tries to grab Arianna she lets out a scream and Rodney blocks him. John freaks as Rodney is flung on the ground, with a large thud he is not awake. Sven has his hands around Arianna’s face is going white quickly, her necklace starts glowing John's instincts kick in he gets to the crate and gets his gun. He wants to check on Rodney but has to act quickly he holds the gun to Sven’s head. It was pointed to the back of his head so Arianna could not see.

“Let her go or I will shoot you.” The ground was already shaking people went back inside scared. It takes a few minutes for Sven to let her go she falls to the ground next to Rodney. John doesn’t take his weapon away though he forces Sven to turn around and face him. Sven looked terrified when the two men that came out with him went away.

Arianna’s necklace stopped glowing once she hit the ground, Sven was trying to keep his wits about himself with Sheppard's gun on him, “I could easily pull this trigger now. What’s your problem with her and Dr McKay?” John demanded to know the truth showing Sven his serious side.

“She is the wraith bringer and I don’t have a problem with McKay.” John pushed the weapon tighter against his head making him close his eyes. John was worried about Ronon and Teyla he hoped they were doing ok. Ronon was tough as was Teyla they could get easily take out his men Sheppard is hoping. He sees Arianna stir awake she looking at Rodney on the ground, he is still out to it some blood coming from his head. It makes John freak out he puts his weapon down and punches Sven out while the girl is not looking.

Arianna tries to wake Rodney up, “Mr please wake up.” John thinks the same he wants Rodney to wake up, he rolls him over and checks his pulse. It was there but for some reason, he was not waking up. Arianna looks at John who tries to hide his worry from her,

“Do not worry John I will save him.” He didn’t know what she was talking about when he sees Arianna put her hands on Rodney, they start to glow and so does Rodney. Wow, John's seen this once before when Rodney healed Radek when he almost ascended. Looking at Rodney the wound on his head faded away and he was starting to open his eyes. Arianna smiles when quickly passes out landing on Rodney curled up. John was happy, to see Rodney was awake he moves the girl into his arms helps him to sit up.

Chapter Text

Sven was knocked out cold on the ground and Arianna passed out in John’s arms. Rodney was now awake moving closer to John and the girl. “It’s alright Rodney she saved you.” His eyes went wide in shock, hearing this new information surprised him. He reached out and felt for Arianna’s pulse it was there thankfully. “She’s still alive.” John gave a deep breath of relief and smiled.

All they had to do was get out of there and find Teyla and Ronon. The little girl starts to stir in John’s arms Rodney speaks, “Please wake up sweetie.” John thinks it’s nice seeing Rodney acting maternal with Arianna it was sweet. Rodney brushes some of the girl's hair out of her face, and that’s when she starts to open her eyes.

The rest of the villagers had gone back inside the other buildings in the town. John shifts Arianna onto Rodney’s lap, he gives Rodney a kiss on the forehead and goes to get the rest of the gear. John tried the radio again, hoping to get through to Ronon or Teyla. “This is Sheppard please Ronon or Teyla come in.” There was static again on the radio till Ronon’s voice sounded in.

“Sheppard we need your help some men are after us.” It surprised him to hear Ronon asking for his help but he was more than happy to.

“Yeah, we know. I’ll come and help you out.” This earned a frown from Rodney who didn’t want John to get hurt.

“Are you sure it’s wise it could be some kind of trap.” Arianna was sitting up now in Rodney’s lap. John was trying to act calm as he grabs the life sign detector, “It might be but Ronon and Teyla need our help, you need to stay with Arianna.” Rodney didn’t like the idea of having John go off alone but thought of something else.

Rodney is sitting up now holding Arianna, “How about we go to the gate and wait for you there.” He did like that idea better than Rodney having to hide somewhere waiting. “Ok, that's a better plan I like it.” He kisses Rodney's cheek not minding that Arianna saw.

“You want me to come with you,” Arianna said opening her eyes and looking up at them. She wondered what their place was like and if it would be better there. John's happy to see she is awake, “Yeah, we do our place is big but it’s great you would love it.”

“What if they don’t like me there like the others here.” Rodney’s heart broke hearing the pain in the little’s girls voice, he was going to make damn sure no one would hurt her again. Before they could go on in the conversation Teyla and Ronon came rushing in from the distance.

Chapter Text

Teyla and Ronon are still chased as John got up and starts to fire warning shots at them. John couldn’t figure out why Ronon wouldn’t stun them. Seeing Sven on the ground made the men stop in their tracks, also seeing the girl made them turn tail and runway back inside one of the houses. “Why didn’t you stun them.” John said trying to remain as calm as he can.” “Wasn’t able to get a good shot off.”

Oh, well that made more sense. “Ok.” That was all John said and the little girl was standing up now. “Can we go please?”

Arianna said in a shy quiet voice Rodney got up from the ground as well. “Yeah, let’s all go home,” John said and Arianna smiled.

“What happened here?” Said Teyla looking at Sven on the ground thinking what went down.

“He hurt Rodney and threatened Arianna I had to step in.” Ronon and Teyla looked at each feeling concern for the both of them.

“Are you both ok?” Said Ronon before Teyla could speak. “Arianna healed me she has powers which I’m curious about.” Said Rodney holding her close to him as she held her necklace. “Powers.” Muttered Ronon wondering if he should be concerned about them.

Teyla looked around to see some villagers coming out of the buildings. “Maybe we should move on.”

She says quickly hoping it would make Sheppard jump into gear. “Yeah, come on we can talk when we get home to Atlantis.” They gather the rest of their stuff and start walking towards the way of the Stargate. If all went well they would be home before dinner and have a new friend who would be more than welcome. They go to the gate and John tells Teyla to dial, before they leave John radios in and tells them to expect a guest.

Chapter Text

When they got to Atlantis with Arianna she was really nervous. Mr Woolsey made her go and have a full check-up with Carson, and Radek was told to run some tests on the necklace. Arianna wouldn’t take the necklace off so it had just to get scanned. It had some weird energy signatures to it that Rodney told Radek to go over. “I want to rest now,” said Arianna to Rodney she begged to stay by her side at all times.

“Sure I can take her to my room for a nap,” Rodney said feeling overwhelmed it was a lot to take in everything was so much.

“Aye, just come back if anything goes wrong.” Said Carson to Rodney and John who hadn’t left Rodney’s side. John told Rodney to get a check-up after what happened on the planet. His results came back fine meantime, Teyla and Ronon decide to go and rest after getting checked over,

“Hey, mind if I tag along.” Says John looking at Rodney who was helping Arianna off the bed. “Ok. Aren’t you feeling tired?”

Rodney said shyly thinking about him and John in bed. “We should put Arianna in my room and let her have a radio if she needs us.” It could seem harsh to leave a child alone on their first night John was desperate for some alone time with Rodney to discuss all this.

“It's ok. I'm used to staying alone.” Her words didn’t sit well with Rodney he never wanted her to be alone again “You have all of us not alone anymore, are you sure it’s ok on your own?”

John looks between them and thinks it was like Rodney only wanted to spend time with her.

Arianna stood up and went to give Rodney a big hug. It surprised John to see her hugging him and it look like it shocked Rodney too. “That’s the biggest hug in the world.” Said Rodney wrapping his arms around Arianna. This was beautiful to see thought John who now had a smile on his face.

“I'm fine sleeping on my own. I know you need time to spend time together.” She was smart having already figured out about Rodney and John.

Rodney looks up at John who’s still grinning at them, “Ok, how bout I show you to my room.” She smiles and takes the Colonel’s hand he is holding out for her. When they leave he kisses Rodney on the cheek he faces the other way and turns around to meet his lips. Arianna giggles as they break apart then John waves and both leave room.

Chapter Text

Once Arianna was safe in John’s room he showed her how to work a radio. It was in case she needed them during the night. She got comfortable in John’s bed and snuggled beneath the covers, they kissed her together on the forehead. After they say goodnight both men leave the room happy that she is safe. John and Rodney felt very tired from the mission, so arriving in Rodney’s room there was a brief moment of tension till John spoke, “Hey, you think Arianna will be fine?” John said stumbling over his words not being able to come up with something else to say.

After a few beats, Rodney speaks thinking over his answer. “I’m sure she’ll be ok. I think Arianna is a very independent little girl.” John nods his head agreeing while moving closer to Rodney who watches intently. It shouldn’t be this weird suddenly it was, Rodney looks at John in front of him and he turns his head away as John speaks. Mmmm, Rodney was thinking the same thing, so many thoughts scrambled into his head.

“Me too.” He says between pants, John sucks a hickey onto his neck it makes him moan loudly his hips moving up again. Rodney touches John running his hands up his shirt feeling the muscles. His finger brushes against Johns's nipple making him gasp. Suddenly there was a burning passion, for things to move quickly so they both started removing clothes. Once both men had gotten naked, they looked at each other intently feeling no shame in doing so. John moves Rodney onto the bed with him on top, he pulls the covers on them no words spoken. Until John looks deeply into Rodney’s eyes and asks him, “Are you sure?”

For he needed this to be the one thing they don’t screw up, it takes a moment for Rodney to respond as he was feeling so many sensations right this minute. “I’m sure. I love you, John.” That earns Rodney a big smile from John who was most sincere about it. He leans back down and kisses him again deepening it pouring all of his love into it not holding back one bit.

“I love you so much,” John says after the kiss has ended catching his breath. They wasted no more time and got straight back to kissing, blow jobs and a lot more touching. On this first time, there was no penetration both decided they needed more time before that would happen. John and Rodney spent the rest of the night cuddled up spooning each other sleeping soundly.

It wasn’t until early morning about 6:00 am they heard the radio on the nightstand go off. “Dr McKay, Rodney please come in.” It was Radek’s voice sounding all in a panic next to Rodney’s radio, John’s goes off and it was Major Lorne. God! Please Rodney wished that whatever crisis was about to happen could just wait.

Chapter Text

Rodney got his radio, putting it on quickly, “Radek report?” It took a minute before Radek spoke.

“There are power fluctuations in the ZPM room; these energy readings are off the chart.” He could hear Radek typing something on his computer,

“Ok, we are on our way.” Oh! Rodney realised he said "Our" out loud. John looked at him weirdly. Before he had time to think about it, John got ready to head out. A few minutes later, things went by so quickly that they also sent a radio call to Colonel Carter to inform her of the situation.

John went to the armoury, grabbing his weapon just in case. He told Rodney to stay behind him as they entered the ZPM room swiftly.

The ZPM was glowing bright blue, and Arianna was on the ground next to it. Her necklace, which was connected to the ZPM, was also glowing.

“No, don’t,” John said, trying to stop Rodney from rushing to Arianna’s side. But he was held back by a force field protecting her. Before anyone could say or do anything, a bright light engulfed the room for quite a few minutes. When the light finally lifted, Arianna’s body was gone, and underneath the ZPM had risen, revealing more ZPM connected to the main one.

“OMG!” John was blown away by the sight before him. Rodney was upset that Arianna's body was not there; he knew it only meant one thing.