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Title: Bloodlust
Author: Chaps1870
Pairing: McShep
Rating: NC-17
Warning: Vampire AU
Chapter Ten
Rodney suddenly sat upright, his eyes wide as he glanced at the door then around the cage, as if contemplating escape. Carson instantly tried to calm him, “You need to lie down.”
Shaking his head, Rodney was already doing his best to scoot into one of the corners. Breathing faster and highly agitated, he grabbed for the metal supports of the cage to pull himself up. Carson rushed to his side, worried about Rodney’s leg. Rodney was mumbling, casting nervous glances towards the door. He struggled to get to his feet, “Stupid, stupid, stupid… knew he’d be pissed. Never learn…”
“Rodney, what are you goin’ on about?” asked Carson, exasperated by his friend’s change in mood as he tried to keep him from rising. “And stop moving around before you hurt yourself.”
Pushing Carson away, Rodney got his good leg under him and stood up, swaying, eyes glued to the door. Twitching nervously, he panted as his breathing increased. “He’s coming.”
Confused, Carson asked, “Who’s coming?”
Rodney looked at Carson, his body tensing as he answered on the verge of panic, “Jo... Colonel Sheppard.” The glow in his eyes intensified. Grabbing Carson to get his attention, he pleaded, “Don’t let him in here.”
“He’s in the infirmary, Rodney,” insisted Carson, frowning at his friend.
Shaking his head in earnest, Rodney mumbled, his hands waving anxiously, “No, no, no, no. He’s on his way here and I can’t have him here. Can’t... can’t stop it. Can’t have him here. Not like this. Too dangerous. Too... too... He looked a Carson, his eyes dilated and very blue. “You don’t understand. I won’t be able to stop.”
Carson stepped in front of Rodney, grabbing his arms to calm him and he whispered softly, “Oh, I’ve an inkling.” With a quick glance over his shoulder to where Ronon was standing, he dropped his voice lower, “Are you bonded to him, Rodney? Is that it?”
Eyes wide, Rodney stared at Carson for several long seconds before nodding frantically, nervously wiping his nose with the back of his hand. He rasped, still stunned, “How did you know?”
“I know a lot more than you think, Rodney.” With a gentle tug, Carson tried to get him to sit. “Come on, then. You need to sit down before you fall down and I’ll not be having too much sympathy if you bust your stitches again.”
Rodney shrugged out of his grasp and limped towards the opposite corner, relying heavily on the bars to keep him on his feet. “Can’t sit. Need to be ready.” His head shot up and his eyes stared at the door, “Aw shit. He’s almost here, Carson. Please don’t let him near me.”
Fearful Rodney would hyperventilate at the rate he was going, Carson barked at Ronon as he blocked Rodney in the corner, hoping to stop him from pacing. “Lock us in. Don’t let the Colonel in here.”
Noting Rodney’s mood shift, Ronon had other ideas and moved closer to the pair. Rodney lurched back, losing his balance as he tried to compensate for his bad leg. Carson grabbed for him, and glared at Ronon over his shoulder, putting every ounce of authority he had in to his voice, “Get out and shut the bloody door.”
Training took over and Ronon didn’t hesitate. Grabbing Carson by the back of the collar, he hauled him out of the cage and made it to the wall panel to shut the door just as Sheppard skidded into the room, looking furious and out of breath. Carson was livid as Ronon released him, but was cut off by the Colonel’s sudden arrival. Sheppard looked pale and drawn, not totally unexpected considering how much blood he’d lost. As Carson tried to approach, Sheppard gave him a look that left no room for doubt. Carson backed off.
Teyla was right on his heals and apologized immediately, “I am sorry but I could not keep him in the infirmary.” Any further explanations died as she watched Rodney slide down the wall to the floor. Looking at Ronon for some sort of explanation all she got was a quiet shrug.
Sheppard was standing stock still at the closed door of the cage, his jaw clamped tightly as he growled, “Open the door.”
Ronon didn’t move, watching as the scene unfolded. Rodney sat on the floor now, his legs stretched out in front of him, his hands and face clenched, eyes shining an eerie blue as he stared at Sheppard. Rodney was breathing fast and he gasped out between one breath and the next, “No. Stay out.”
Carson used the distraction to ease around the cage, closer to Rodney in case he was needed. Not that he could do much as long as he was on the outside.
John turned sharply towards Ronon, his voice low and dangerous as he commanded, “Open. The. Door.”
The two men stared at each other for several seconds. Teyla was moving forward to mediate when Dr. Weir and Dr. Zelenka burst through the door. Assessing the situation, Elizabeth calmly told Ronon, “Leave the door closed-- for now.”
Ronon gave her a small nod and took a short step back until his body blocked the panel, his eyes never leaving Sheppard’s. The Colonel whirled on Weir, barely restraining his fury. “Why the hell is he locked up?”
Elizabeth’s raised a brow in surprise. “Do you really need me to tell you that? Look at him, John,” she said, gesturing to cage. All eyes turned to where Rodney sat huddled in the corner. He was fidgeting, his fingers and hands rubbing at his arms as he stared at Sheppard. His breath was loud in the room and the glow of blue in his eyes was impossible to miss. Mouth open as he sucked in air, there was no mistaking the pointed teeth that had put him in the cell in the first place.
Drawn to it, John took an unconscious step towards the cage before he realized what he was doing. He jerked back to himself, turning his back on Rodney as he confronted Weir, missing the hurt look in the scientist’s eyes. “Was it necessary to put him in there? He’s not dangerous.”
“You don’t know that. You were unconscious through the worst of it.”
“So lock him up in his quarters, not in there like he’s the enemy,” barked John, infuriated that Rodney was being treated with no more consideration than the Wraith they’d confined in the same cage.
“We tried that when you were infected with the retrovirus and several men were injured during your escape. I’m not going to take that chance again,” stated Elizabeth, her arms crossed as she defended her actions. It took all her diplomatic training not to turn away from John’s angry glare.
“And I’m saying he isn’t dangerous,” countered Sheppard, his voice low and barely controlled.
“We have no proof that he isn’t. I’m not willing to take that chance,” insisted Elizabeth.
As Sheppard and Weir argued, Radek stepped away and joined Carson near Rodney. He squatted down opposite Carson at the outside corner of the cell, “Carson.”
Smiling weakly, Carson nodded towards the door where the Colonel and Elizabeth were arguing. “How did it go?”
Radek closed his eyes briefly and shook his head. “She listened but I am not sure she believes. Too much is clouded in hearsay. I tried to convince her he was not threat but I could not say what I should have,” he said guiltily.
“You did what you could,” consoled Carson, knowing too well how difficult the conversation must have been. There was a fine line between what they could say and what they couldn’t... wouldn’t.
Glancing at Rodney, who was looking decidedly miserable inside the cage, Radek asked with concern, “How is he?”
Carson shook his head, “Not good. He’s doesn’t want the colonel near him.”
“He’s right here,” Rodney scoffed, wiping his runny nose with the back of his hand.
“And as pleasant as always,” quipped Radek, resisting a smile. It was encouraging that Rodney had enough of his facilities to be sarcastic. “And to think I missed you.”
“I'm touched,” retorted Rodney. Frowning suspiciously, his voice rising, he asked, “Why are you here? Making sure I’ve gone off the deep end before you usurp my position.” The bite of his words were lost to the tremors that shook his frame, his knuckles white as his fingers clawed at the floor.
Radek snorted, “I have had your job for a month, Rodney. I am saving you to save myself from ulcer.” He watched Carson reaching to take Rodney’s pulse as he occupied the scientist with small talk.
Sweating heavily, his movements jittery, Rodney looked across the cage at Weir and Sheppard, who were still arguing. Ronon and Teyla stayed back along the wall, occasionally indulging in a silent conversation of shrugs and questioning looks.
“Oh please, I’ve already been convicted,” huffed Rodney. He glanced up at Sheppard then leaned his head against the bars that confined him, his voice dropping, “No way they’ll let me stay now. Besides, what can you possibly contribute that would save me?”
Radek sneered, “I could let you rot in cage like Wraith.” As Rodney paled, Radek felt bad for his comment and joked, “I think I will play hero for once. Take away your glory.”
“Like you could,” snorted Rodney. He added bitterly, his voice stuttering as he trembled, “Unless you have a miracle up your ass, I’m not buying it.”
With his back to the others in the room, Radek leaned closer and spoke in a hushed tone, “You are not only vampire here.”
Rodney eyes widened, his mouth opening and closing but no sound was forthcoming.
Carson squeezed his wrist. “Breathe, Rodney.”
With a sharp inhale, Rodney sucked in a lungful of air and then another before he gasped, “Who?” His eyes darted between Carson and Radek. “Which of you? Both?”
“Rodney, please. Not so loud,” pleaded Carson, hissing nervously and glancing towards the others in the room, hoping they hadn’t overheard.
Their conversation seemed to be waning as John turned, his eyes settling on Rodney. As if in response, Rodney’s breathing increased and he backed himself further into the corner and was muttering to himself. “Stay back, stay back. Oh god, don’t come in here.”
Rodney’s fear was real and Radek’s features tightened. Exhaling loudly, he patted Carson’s shoulder and stood, “Stay with him. I will talk to others.” He moved around the cage towards Sheppard and the others.
Carson reached through the bars, placing a steadying hand on Rodney’s shoulder. “Rodney, look at me.”
Rodney’s eyes were fixed on Sheppard. He pleaded desperately, “Don’t let him in here. I can’t be responsible if he comes in here.”
Carson tried to reassure him, “You won’t do anything he doesn’t want, Rodney.”
Tearing his gaze away from John’s, Rodney growled, “He doesn’t know what he wants. It’s like trying to figure out a two-year-old. He has the attention span of a gnat.” Rodney closed his eyes wearily and dropped his head with a forlorn sigh, “I don’t know what he wants.”
Their conversation was interrupted by Sheppard’s loud, terse voice, “I won’t let you send him to Earth.”
“I’m not saying we should,” countered Elizabeth, defensively.
Radek had joined them, slipping behind Sheppard so he was between the colonel and the door to the cell. He spoke calmly, “I do not think that will be necessary. This is only temporary.” Shifting nervously, Radek stared between the two of them, before settling on Sheppard. “Perhaps it would be better for Rodney if you left.”
John gave him a curious look while Elizabeth raised a brow. “Why?”
“He…uh…um…” Radek stuttered, casting glances in Sheppard’s direction, unsure what to say. He couldn’t very well explain the bond without exposing their relationship.
Elizabeth turned to Radek for an explanation. Flustered, he spoke quickly, “It is blood. When it wears off, so will this…behavior.” He turned to Sheppard. “You are making it worse being here. It was your blood he is reacting to.”
Frowning, John didn’t want to believe him but he knew it was true. As if to test it, he stepped towards Rodney’s end of the cage.
Rodney’s head snapped up and seeing John advance, panicked. He grabbed Carson through the bars, his fingers tightening in the material of his shirt as he pulled him closer. He panted frantically, “Sedate me. Restraints. Do whatever you have to, but don’t let me near him.”
Grabbing the bar with one hand, Carson leveraged himself to keep from slamming into the cage as Rodney tugged him closer. With his free hand, he tried untangling Rodney’s fingers from his shirt. Letting his accent thicken to a comforting tone, he drawled, “I’m not goin’ to sedate you. It did no good.”
Banging the back of his head against the bars, Rodney cried, “God, just shoot me then.”
Worried for Rodney, Carson glanced between him and the others, hoping for some sort of resolution. He was surprised to see Ronon rounding the corner, blaster raised at Rodney. Pressed against the bars, Carson realized Rodney was still holding his shirt collar. He paled and waved Ronon off. “He’s not hurting me.” Eying Rodney, his voice wavered, “Rodney, let go of me before Ronon shoots you.”
Rodney seemed alarmed at first and then his eyes flared bright for a long second. Carson panicked, grabbing for Rodney’s fingers as he pleaded, “Don’t you dare.” His head turned sharply to Ronon, who was advancing gun first. He gave a frightened shout, “Don’t shoot!”
Carson’s eyes darted between the hand that was pinning him and Ronon’s determined face. Rodney was tugging his shirt, growling, daring Ronon to shoot him and Carson cringed, eyes clenched tight as he moaned, “Aw, bloody crap.”
Voices came from all directions.
“Rodney, let him go or Ronon will shoot you,” said Teyla, calmly.
“Damn it, McKay. Let him go,” ordered Sheppard, sounding much closer than before.
“Shoot me!” Rodney shouted, frantically, his panting loud in Carson’s ear.
“No one is going to shoot you,” Elizabeth insisted.
Carson dared to open his eyes. Ronon was practically standing on top of him, his blaster inches from Rodney’s back. His look was dark, foreboding but his gun hand didn’t waver. Teyla was behind him somewhere. Carson couldn’t move enough to make sure. Even shifting his eyes didn’t help. Beside him, crouched close was Sheppard, his hand reaching out to Rodney, whose eyes were closed tightly. His breathing was coming fast and shallow, Rodney begged, “Get away, get away, get away.”
The hand on Carson’s collar was threatening to cut off his airway. Gasping open mouthed, Carson tried prying Rodney’s hand away, but the lack of air was making him lethargic. As John was about to make contact, Rodney lost it. He scrambled sideways, forgetting the hand still on Carson’s shirt. Carson’s red face was slammed into the bars. Moaning in pain, Carson’s eyes rolled back in his head and he went limp.
“Colonel, you need to leave,” shouted Radek irately as he and Teyla made a grab for Carson.
As Ronon zeroed in on McKay, Sheppard reacted, jumping in front of him to block the shot. Pale, he raised his hands defensively even as he glanced over his shoulder at Rodney. One look at him was all it took. Drenched in his own sweat, Rodney’s eyes were wide and dark as he met Sheppard’s gaze. The pure lust on his face was unsettling and John stepped back, his own heart racing. He backed away reluctantly, his voice harsh, unable to hid his frustration, “Alright, alright. I’m leaving.”
He stood to leave then turned to Elizabeth. Waving his hand at McKay he ground out, “And get him out of there.”
Elizabeth wearily closed her eyes and nodded. Watching John turn and storm away, she motioned for Ronon to follow. It was unnecessary. The big man was already out the door.
With a heavy sigh, she keyed her radio, “I need security and a medical team to the confinement area.”
Surveying the damage, she shook her head, stunned by how quickly things had gotten out of control. It was times like this when her training seemed wholly inadequate. No amount of diplomacy seemed to work when her own people were involved. Sometimes she felt more like a playground monitor than a leader. Today was no exception.
Carson was coming around with a moan. Joining Radek and Teyla, she asked worriedly, “How is he?”
Leaning heavily into Radek, Carson rubbed his throat and croaked, “I’ll be fine.” His face was red and slightly swollen where he’d come in contact with the bars. He’d have bruises tomorrow.
“Will someone please tell me what went on here?” sighed Elizabeth.
Teyla was on her feet, pointing to the cell. He tone held a hint of alarm. “I think perhaps we should help Rodney.”
Rodney was on his side, shivering from damp clothes that clung to his frame, but he was no longer agitated. Instead he appeared to have reached his endurance level and was curled up on the floor, staring blankly at nothing.
Shaking off his own hurt, Carson clambered to his feet with Radek’s help. Leaning heavily into him, he stumbled to the door that Teyla hurriedly opened. Elizabeth followed but stayed outside the cell, fearful of getting too close. Until security arrived, someone had to keep a level head. Teyla too kept her distance, allowing Radek and Carson to look after Rodney. Radek grabbed Ronon’s coat that had been cast aside earlier and draped it over his trembling form.
Reaching out, Carson clasped Rodney’s wrist and took his pulse. It was fast but steady, understandable considering the events of earlier. Carson was rather impressed with Rodney’s willpower with John present. Glancing at Radek, he saw the same thing in his eyes. Radek patted his Rodney’s shoulder fondly and whispered, “If you ever threaten Carson again, my friend, I will not be so forgiving.”
“S’rry,” said Rodney, buried under Ronon’s coat.
Elizabeth watched in amazement. Rodney was completely calm now with Sheppard gone, making her decision to release him to the infirmary easier. There was still the issue of him being a vampire, but she was forced to admit that he no longer seemed as edgy.
The medical team arrived to transport Rodney and at Radek’s insistence, look after Carson. Rodney meekly allowed their help, refusing to open his eyes or his mouth in their presence. As they prepared to transport him, Elizabeth spoke to Radek, “I think we need to talk. I could use a more thorough explanation and you seem to be the expert at the moment.”
Radek nodded shyly, “I will tell you what I can.” His eyes followed the retreating personnel. “I would like to join them in settling Rodney.”
Elizabeth nodded, “Of course. I would like a report as soon as he’s able.” She sighed, exasperated, “Maybe I can begin to make some sense of all this.” As he started to leave, she called after him, “Radek, thank you.”
He blushed and nodded, leaving Elizabeth and Teyla the only ones still in the room. Concerned, she asked the Athosian, “How are you doing, Teyla? You don’t seem comfortable with this new development.”
As they walked after the others, Teyla answered carefully, “I admit that I was uncomfortable at first and I am still wary of…vampires, but I sense no danger from Rodney.”
“I suppose the Wraith are the closest analogy in your world,” said Elizabeth. “And to be fair, vampires are not thought much better of on my own world.”
“I did not think they were real. That is what Colonel Sheppard told us after we watched Dracula.”
“Yes, well, I didn’t think they were real until Rodney came along. Apparently, Radek says they aren’t as uncommon as we were led to believe. In his home country, there are many stories. The fact that he isn’t alarmed by Rodney being a vampire is reassuring.” She chuckled lightly, “Dr. Zelenka can be very nervous at times.”
Teyla smiled, “Yes, I have noticed.” She hesitated, “Do you think others will be as understanding?”
Elizabeth thought about it and as much as she wanted a perfect world she knew better, “It would be like your people suddenly accepting a Wraith as harmless.”
“Hmm. So you won’t tell them the truth,” said Teyla.
“Not if I can help it.”
Part 11
Author: Chaps1870
Pairing: McShep
Rating: NC-17
Warning: Vampire AU
Chapter Ten
Rodney suddenly sat upright, his eyes wide as he glanced at the door then around the cage, as if contemplating escape. Carson instantly tried to calm him, “You need to lie down.”
Shaking his head, Rodney was already doing his best to scoot into one of the corners. Breathing faster and highly agitated, he grabbed for the metal supports of the cage to pull himself up. Carson rushed to his side, worried about Rodney’s leg. Rodney was mumbling, casting nervous glances towards the door. He struggled to get to his feet, “Stupid, stupid, stupid… knew he’d be pissed. Never learn…”
“Rodney, what are you goin’ on about?” asked Carson, exasperated by his friend’s change in mood as he tried to keep him from rising. “And stop moving around before you hurt yourself.”
Pushing Carson away, Rodney got his good leg under him and stood up, swaying, eyes glued to the door. Twitching nervously, he panted as his breathing increased. “He’s coming.”
Confused, Carson asked, “Who’s coming?”
Rodney looked at Carson, his body tensing as he answered on the verge of panic, “Jo... Colonel Sheppard.” The glow in his eyes intensified. Grabbing Carson to get his attention, he pleaded, “Don’t let him in here.”
“He’s in the infirmary, Rodney,” insisted Carson, frowning at his friend.
Shaking his head in earnest, Rodney mumbled, his hands waving anxiously, “No, no, no, no. He’s on his way here and I can’t have him here. Can’t... can’t stop it. Can’t have him here. Not like this. Too dangerous. Too... too... He looked a Carson, his eyes dilated and very blue. “You don’t understand. I won’t be able to stop.”
Carson stepped in front of Rodney, grabbing his arms to calm him and he whispered softly, “Oh, I’ve an inkling.” With a quick glance over his shoulder to where Ronon was standing, he dropped his voice lower, “Are you bonded to him, Rodney? Is that it?”
Eyes wide, Rodney stared at Carson for several long seconds before nodding frantically, nervously wiping his nose with the back of his hand. He rasped, still stunned, “How did you know?”
“I know a lot more than you think, Rodney.” With a gentle tug, Carson tried to get him to sit. “Come on, then. You need to sit down before you fall down and I’ll not be having too much sympathy if you bust your stitches again.”
Rodney shrugged out of his grasp and limped towards the opposite corner, relying heavily on the bars to keep him on his feet. “Can’t sit. Need to be ready.” His head shot up and his eyes stared at the door, “Aw shit. He’s almost here, Carson. Please don’t let him near me.”
Fearful Rodney would hyperventilate at the rate he was going, Carson barked at Ronon as he blocked Rodney in the corner, hoping to stop him from pacing. “Lock us in. Don’t let the Colonel in here.”
Noting Rodney’s mood shift, Ronon had other ideas and moved closer to the pair. Rodney lurched back, losing his balance as he tried to compensate for his bad leg. Carson grabbed for him, and glared at Ronon over his shoulder, putting every ounce of authority he had in to his voice, “Get out and shut the bloody door.”
Training took over and Ronon didn’t hesitate. Grabbing Carson by the back of the collar, he hauled him out of the cage and made it to the wall panel to shut the door just as Sheppard skidded into the room, looking furious and out of breath. Carson was livid as Ronon released him, but was cut off by the Colonel’s sudden arrival. Sheppard looked pale and drawn, not totally unexpected considering how much blood he’d lost. As Carson tried to approach, Sheppard gave him a look that left no room for doubt. Carson backed off.
Teyla was right on his heals and apologized immediately, “I am sorry but I could not keep him in the infirmary.” Any further explanations died as she watched Rodney slide down the wall to the floor. Looking at Ronon for some sort of explanation all she got was a quiet shrug.
Sheppard was standing stock still at the closed door of the cage, his jaw clamped tightly as he growled, “Open the door.”
Ronon didn’t move, watching as the scene unfolded. Rodney sat on the floor now, his legs stretched out in front of him, his hands and face clenched, eyes shining an eerie blue as he stared at Sheppard. Rodney was breathing fast and he gasped out between one breath and the next, “No. Stay out.”
Carson used the distraction to ease around the cage, closer to Rodney in case he was needed. Not that he could do much as long as he was on the outside.
John turned sharply towards Ronon, his voice low and dangerous as he commanded, “Open. The. Door.”
The two men stared at each other for several seconds. Teyla was moving forward to mediate when Dr. Weir and Dr. Zelenka burst through the door. Assessing the situation, Elizabeth calmly told Ronon, “Leave the door closed-- for now.”
Ronon gave her a small nod and took a short step back until his body blocked the panel, his eyes never leaving Sheppard’s. The Colonel whirled on Weir, barely restraining his fury. “Why the hell is he locked up?”
Elizabeth’s raised a brow in surprise. “Do you really need me to tell you that? Look at him, John,” she said, gesturing to cage. All eyes turned to where Rodney sat huddled in the corner. He was fidgeting, his fingers and hands rubbing at his arms as he stared at Sheppard. His breath was loud in the room and the glow of blue in his eyes was impossible to miss. Mouth open as he sucked in air, there was no mistaking the pointed teeth that had put him in the cell in the first place.
Drawn to it, John took an unconscious step towards the cage before he realized what he was doing. He jerked back to himself, turning his back on Rodney as he confronted Weir, missing the hurt look in the scientist’s eyes. “Was it necessary to put him in there? He’s not dangerous.”
“You don’t know that. You were unconscious through the worst of it.”
“So lock him up in his quarters, not in there like he’s the enemy,” barked John, infuriated that Rodney was being treated with no more consideration than the Wraith they’d confined in the same cage.
“We tried that when you were infected with the retrovirus and several men were injured during your escape. I’m not going to take that chance again,” stated Elizabeth, her arms crossed as she defended her actions. It took all her diplomatic training not to turn away from John’s angry glare.
“And I’m saying he isn’t dangerous,” countered Sheppard, his voice low and barely controlled.
“We have no proof that he isn’t. I’m not willing to take that chance,” insisted Elizabeth.
As Sheppard and Weir argued, Radek stepped away and joined Carson near Rodney. He squatted down opposite Carson at the outside corner of the cell, “Carson.”
Smiling weakly, Carson nodded towards the door where the Colonel and Elizabeth were arguing. “How did it go?”
Radek closed his eyes briefly and shook his head. “She listened but I am not sure she believes. Too much is clouded in hearsay. I tried to convince her he was not threat but I could not say what I should have,” he said guiltily.
“You did what you could,” consoled Carson, knowing too well how difficult the conversation must have been. There was a fine line between what they could say and what they couldn’t... wouldn’t.
Glancing at Rodney, who was looking decidedly miserable inside the cage, Radek asked with concern, “How is he?”
Carson shook his head, “Not good. He’s doesn’t want the colonel near him.”
“He’s right here,” Rodney scoffed, wiping his runny nose with the back of his hand.
“And as pleasant as always,” quipped Radek, resisting a smile. It was encouraging that Rodney had enough of his facilities to be sarcastic. “And to think I missed you.”
“I'm touched,” retorted Rodney. Frowning suspiciously, his voice rising, he asked, “Why are you here? Making sure I’ve gone off the deep end before you usurp my position.” The bite of his words were lost to the tremors that shook his frame, his knuckles white as his fingers clawed at the floor.
Radek snorted, “I have had your job for a month, Rodney. I am saving you to save myself from ulcer.” He watched Carson reaching to take Rodney’s pulse as he occupied the scientist with small talk.
Sweating heavily, his movements jittery, Rodney looked across the cage at Weir and Sheppard, who were still arguing. Ronon and Teyla stayed back along the wall, occasionally indulging in a silent conversation of shrugs and questioning looks.
“Oh please, I’ve already been convicted,” huffed Rodney. He glanced up at Sheppard then leaned his head against the bars that confined him, his voice dropping, “No way they’ll let me stay now. Besides, what can you possibly contribute that would save me?”
Radek sneered, “I could let you rot in cage like Wraith.” As Rodney paled, Radek felt bad for his comment and joked, “I think I will play hero for once. Take away your glory.”
“Like you could,” snorted Rodney. He added bitterly, his voice stuttering as he trembled, “Unless you have a miracle up your ass, I’m not buying it.”
With his back to the others in the room, Radek leaned closer and spoke in a hushed tone, “You are not only vampire here.”
Rodney eyes widened, his mouth opening and closing but no sound was forthcoming.
Carson squeezed his wrist. “Breathe, Rodney.”
With a sharp inhale, Rodney sucked in a lungful of air and then another before he gasped, “Who?” His eyes darted between Carson and Radek. “Which of you? Both?”
“Rodney, please. Not so loud,” pleaded Carson, hissing nervously and glancing towards the others in the room, hoping they hadn’t overheard.
Their conversation seemed to be waning as John turned, his eyes settling on Rodney. As if in response, Rodney’s breathing increased and he backed himself further into the corner and was muttering to himself. “Stay back, stay back. Oh god, don’t come in here.”
Rodney’s fear was real and Radek’s features tightened. Exhaling loudly, he patted Carson’s shoulder and stood, “Stay with him. I will talk to others.” He moved around the cage towards Sheppard and the others.
Carson reached through the bars, placing a steadying hand on Rodney’s shoulder. “Rodney, look at me.”
Rodney’s eyes were fixed on Sheppard. He pleaded desperately, “Don’t let him in here. I can’t be responsible if he comes in here.”
Carson tried to reassure him, “You won’t do anything he doesn’t want, Rodney.”
Tearing his gaze away from John’s, Rodney growled, “He doesn’t know what he wants. It’s like trying to figure out a two-year-old. He has the attention span of a gnat.” Rodney closed his eyes wearily and dropped his head with a forlorn sigh, “I don’t know what he wants.”
Their conversation was interrupted by Sheppard’s loud, terse voice, “I won’t let you send him to Earth.”
“I’m not saying we should,” countered Elizabeth, defensively.
Radek had joined them, slipping behind Sheppard so he was between the colonel and the door to the cell. He spoke calmly, “I do not think that will be necessary. This is only temporary.” Shifting nervously, Radek stared between the two of them, before settling on Sheppard. “Perhaps it would be better for Rodney if you left.”
John gave him a curious look while Elizabeth raised a brow. “Why?”
“He…uh…um…” Radek stuttered, casting glances in Sheppard’s direction, unsure what to say. He couldn’t very well explain the bond without exposing their relationship.
Elizabeth turned to Radek for an explanation. Flustered, he spoke quickly, “It is blood. When it wears off, so will this…behavior.” He turned to Sheppard. “You are making it worse being here. It was your blood he is reacting to.”
Frowning, John didn’t want to believe him but he knew it was true. As if to test it, he stepped towards Rodney’s end of the cage.
Rodney’s head snapped up and seeing John advance, panicked. He grabbed Carson through the bars, his fingers tightening in the material of his shirt as he pulled him closer. He panted frantically, “Sedate me. Restraints. Do whatever you have to, but don’t let me near him.”
Grabbing the bar with one hand, Carson leveraged himself to keep from slamming into the cage as Rodney tugged him closer. With his free hand, he tried untangling Rodney’s fingers from his shirt. Letting his accent thicken to a comforting tone, he drawled, “I’m not goin’ to sedate you. It did no good.”
Banging the back of his head against the bars, Rodney cried, “God, just shoot me then.”
Worried for Rodney, Carson glanced between him and the others, hoping for some sort of resolution. He was surprised to see Ronon rounding the corner, blaster raised at Rodney. Pressed against the bars, Carson realized Rodney was still holding his shirt collar. He paled and waved Ronon off. “He’s not hurting me.” Eying Rodney, his voice wavered, “Rodney, let go of me before Ronon shoots you.”
Rodney seemed alarmed at first and then his eyes flared bright for a long second. Carson panicked, grabbing for Rodney’s fingers as he pleaded, “Don’t you dare.” His head turned sharply to Ronon, who was advancing gun first. He gave a frightened shout, “Don’t shoot!”
Carson’s eyes darted between the hand that was pinning him and Ronon’s determined face. Rodney was tugging his shirt, growling, daring Ronon to shoot him and Carson cringed, eyes clenched tight as he moaned, “Aw, bloody crap.”
Voices came from all directions.
“Rodney, let him go or Ronon will shoot you,” said Teyla, calmly.
“Damn it, McKay. Let him go,” ordered Sheppard, sounding much closer than before.
“Shoot me!” Rodney shouted, frantically, his panting loud in Carson’s ear.
“No one is going to shoot you,” Elizabeth insisted.
Carson dared to open his eyes. Ronon was practically standing on top of him, his blaster inches from Rodney’s back. His look was dark, foreboding but his gun hand didn’t waver. Teyla was behind him somewhere. Carson couldn’t move enough to make sure. Even shifting his eyes didn’t help. Beside him, crouched close was Sheppard, his hand reaching out to Rodney, whose eyes were closed tightly. His breathing was coming fast and shallow, Rodney begged, “Get away, get away, get away.”
The hand on Carson’s collar was threatening to cut off his airway. Gasping open mouthed, Carson tried prying Rodney’s hand away, but the lack of air was making him lethargic. As John was about to make contact, Rodney lost it. He scrambled sideways, forgetting the hand still on Carson’s shirt. Carson’s red face was slammed into the bars. Moaning in pain, Carson’s eyes rolled back in his head and he went limp.
“Colonel, you need to leave,” shouted Radek irately as he and Teyla made a grab for Carson.
As Ronon zeroed in on McKay, Sheppard reacted, jumping in front of him to block the shot. Pale, he raised his hands defensively even as he glanced over his shoulder at Rodney. One look at him was all it took. Drenched in his own sweat, Rodney’s eyes were wide and dark as he met Sheppard’s gaze. The pure lust on his face was unsettling and John stepped back, his own heart racing. He backed away reluctantly, his voice harsh, unable to hid his frustration, “Alright, alright. I’m leaving.”
He stood to leave then turned to Elizabeth. Waving his hand at McKay he ground out, “And get him out of there.”
Elizabeth wearily closed her eyes and nodded. Watching John turn and storm away, she motioned for Ronon to follow. It was unnecessary. The big man was already out the door.
With a heavy sigh, she keyed her radio, “I need security and a medical team to the confinement area.”
Surveying the damage, she shook her head, stunned by how quickly things had gotten out of control. It was times like this when her training seemed wholly inadequate. No amount of diplomacy seemed to work when her own people were involved. Sometimes she felt more like a playground monitor than a leader. Today was no exception.
Carson was coming around with a moan. Joining Radek and Teyla, she asked worriedly, “How is he?”
Leaning heavily into Radek, Carson rubbed his throat and croaked, “I’ll be fine.” His face was red and slightly swollen where he’d come in contact with the bars. He’d have bruises tomorrow.
“Will someone please tell me what went on here?” sighed Elizabeth.
Teyla was on her feet, pointing to the cell. He tone held a hint of alarm. “I think perhaps we should help Rodney.”
Rodney was on his side, shivering from damp clothes that clung to his frame, but he was no longer agitated. Instead he appeared to have reached his endurance level and was curled up on the floor, staring blankly at nothing.
Shaking off his own hurt, Carson clambered to his feet with Radek’s help. Leaning heavily into him, he stumbled to the door that Teyla hurriedly opened. Elizabeth followed but stayed outside the cell, fearful of getting too close. Until security arrived, someone had to keep a level head. Teyla too kept her distance, allowing Radek and Carson to look after Rodney. Radek grabbed Ronon’s coat that had been cast aside earlier and draped it over his trembling form.
Reaching out, Carson clasped Rodney’s wrist and took his pulse. It was fast but steady, understandable considering the events of earlier. Carson was rather impressed with Rodney’s willpower with John present. Glancing at Radek, he saw the same thing in his eyes. Radek patted his Rodney’s shoulder fondly and whispered, “If you ever threaten Carson again, my friend, I will not be so forgiving.”
“S’rry,” said Rodney, buried under Ronon’s coat.
Elizabeth watched in amazement. Rodney was completely calm now with Sheppard gone, making her decision to release him to the infirmary easier. There was still the issue of him being a vampire, but she was forced to admit that he no longer seemed as edgy.
The medical team arrived to transport Rodney and at Radek’s insistence, look after Carson. Rodney meekly allowed their help, refusing to open his eyes or his mouth in their presence. As they prepared to transport him, Elizabeth spoke to Radek, “I think we need to talk. I could use a more thorough explanation and you seem to be the expert at the moment.”
Radek nodded shyly, “I will tell you what I can.” His eyes followed the retreating personnel. “I would like to join them in settling Rodney.”
Elizabeth nodded, “Of course. I would like a report as soon as he’s able.” She sighed, exasperated, “Maybe I can begin to make some sense of all this.” As he started to leave, she called after him, “Radek, thank you.”
He blushed and nodded, leaving Elizabeth and Teyla the only ones still in the room. Concerned, she asked the Athosian, “How are you doing, Teyla? You don’t seem comfortable with this new development.”
As they walked after the others, Teyla answered carefully, “I admit that I was uncomfortable at first and I am still wary of…vampires, but I sense no danger from Rodney.”
“I suppose the Wraith are the closest analogy in your world,” said Elizabeth. “And to be fair, vampires are not thought much better of on my own world.”
“I did not think they were real. That is what Colonel Sheppard told us after we watched Dracula.”
“Yes, well, I didn’t think they were real until Rodney came along. Apparently, Radek says they aren’t as uncommon as we were led to believe. In his home country, there are many stories. The fact that he isn’t alarmed by Rodney being a vampire is reassuring.” She chuckled lightly, “Dr. Zelenka can be very nervous at times.”
Teyla smiled, “Yes, I have noticed.” She hesitated, “Do you think others will be as understanding?”
Elizabeth thought about it and as much as she wanted a perfect world she knew better, “It would be like your people suddenly accepting a Wraith as harmless.”
“Hmm. So you won’t tell them the truth,” said Teyla.
“Not if I can help it.”
Part 11
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