Dark Secrets Ch 2
If you're still reading, I thank you and I have to wonder about your sanity!! haha Just kidding. So yeah, not only do I suck with titles, but also with summaries. So without further delay, I present to you the next part as the mystery continues.
Chapter 2
Since the incident, all gate activities had been suspended. Once Teyla had returned from her trip to the mainland, she was briefed on incident that had occurred hours earlier. McKay, Zalenka, and a few other scientists were still trying to determine what had happened. But none of the readings they were getting were making any sense. In passing, John had noticed that some of the minor damages had been repaired. But some damage was too much just to paint over. Stackhouse lay in the infirmary barely hanging onto life, having to be resuscitated two more times before the night was over. Drowning out the clatter in the control room, John made his way across to Elizabeth’s office. There, she herself was going over what little information that had been figured out and relayed to her laptop. Pausing at her door, unsure that his presence had been noticed, he knocked on the glass door.
Looking up at John, Elizabeth leaned back in her chair, put her hands on her face and started massaging the exhaustion out of her muscles. “John. Come in.”
Continuing over to her desk, John pulled out one of the chairs in front of her, taking a seat. “You look like hell,” he told her as he sat down.
“You don’t look any better.” She countered, placing her hands on her lap. “How’s Stackhouse?”
“Actually I was just on my way down to check on him. I just stopped by to see how you were.” John told her while doing his best to recline in the chair he was sitting in.
“Me?” she asked with a confused look on her face.
“Yeah. I know how you feel when someone gets hurt in the line of duty. I’m feeling the same way right now. Stackhouse is a part of both sides. You’re in charge of the expedition and I’m in charge of the military personnel.”
“Right. Actually, I could use a break. Mind if I join you?”
“Not at all. The more the merrier, I say.” Getting up, both headed towards the door and started their way down to the infirmary. Along the way they met up with Teyla. Although they were not close, Teyla had worked with Adam at times on a few missions and felt that she should also check in on his progress. In the infirmary, Carson was discussing the condition of another soldier when the trio arrived.
“Just keep your arm in a sling and ice it every now and then and it should be fine.” Carson told the young woman as she slid off the bed and positioned the sling that one of the other nurses had just handed her.
“Thank you, Doctor.” She told him in passing. “Colonel, Dr. Weir, ma’am.” The lieutenant acknowledged as she passed them on her way out.
“Oh good. You’re here.” Carson said when he noticed that they had arrived.
“Is something wrong, Dr. Beckett?” Teyla asked when she noticed the slight hint of concern in Carson’s voice.
“Not really, no. Stackhouse seems to be improving. But it’s going to take some time for him to wake up.”
“That’s good to hear.” Elizabeth said, a small feeling of relief in her voice. Glancing to her right, she saw John staring at Adam. Lying there, Adam looked so peaceful. They could only imagine the pain that he was in and what he had went through a few hours before. If it weren’t for the oxygen line, the multiple machines that were hooked up to his body, and the bandage around his head, John could have sworn that he was just sleeping off a long, boring night of watch duty.
“Do we know the extent of his injuries?” John asked, pulling his gaze away from Adam.
“He suffered a major concussion along with his chest being burned by whatever it was that hit him. The burn isn’t serious and shouldn’t leave a scar if properly medicated. I’ve also got him on a mild sedative to help him relax and speed up the healing process.” Carson told him, but moving over to get a printout that was on his desk. “However there is one thing that’s bothering me.”
“What?” John asked, immediately overtaken with concern.
“Well, this is a printout of Stackhouse’s last EEG taken on his last checkup.” He told them, handing Elizabeth the paper with John looking over her shoulder. “I hooked him up to another monitor to check for any signs of brain damage. This was done just a while ago.” This one, he handed to John. “Every now and then, his brainwave readings change drastically. I don’t know if it’s just his body trying to process the stress and physical strain or something else. But I do know I’ve never seen anything like it before.” The difference could clearly be seen. The radical changes in the charts were worrisome. All four looked at each other with concern, concerned for Adam and concern for themselves, wondering if whatever had happened would happen again.
He could hear voices. They weren’t clear but he could tell they were voices. He also felt pain. His head was throbbing so hard that it hurt when he even tried to think. Slowly, Adam tried to open his eyes. Big mistake. When the pain didn’t fully stop him, the light did. Suddenly he had a momentary flashback to the gate room. The light that he had seen just before he had passed out, quickly flashed in his mind before he clenched his eyes shut to avoid the pain. As his hearing began to clear up he could tell that one of the voices was that of Dr. Beckett; the Scottish accent standing out above everything else. While not fully up to par, Adam could tell that Carson had sent whoever was with him on an errand of some kind. Gathering what little strength he had, Adam opened his eyes again, but this time, more slowly than his first try. As the initial pain faded, all he could see were just bright blurs. Keeping his focus, his vision became clearer, albeit fuzzy. But fuzzy was better than his previous visual state. Opening his mouth to try and talk, no sound came out. He instantly regretted that. His throat was so dry that trying to talk caused him to feel like he was being strangled. Swallowing a few times to try and moisten his throat, Adam once again tried to speak. Although he was unsuccessful in getting Carson’s attention, he was able to go from nothing at all to an inaudible whisper. No sooner had he tried his second attempt, he heard the voice of Colonel Sheppard come in.
”Hey, doc. Teyla really did a number on me this time, so I’m gonna need some strong pain killers for tonight.” Hearing John’s complaining, Carson couldn’t help but laugh. Adam then heard him walk over to a table, apparently getting some type of pain medications. Carson’s footsteps could then be heard walking back towards John. “Thanks, Doc. You know, after all this time, you think I could figure a way to beat Teyla at her own game.” Mustering his strength, Adam gave it his all in trying to get Beckett’s attention.
“Dr. Beckett.” Finally, it came out. Barely a whisper but it was audible. However was it enough to get Beckett’s attention? Not really expecting it, Carson and John were kind of surprised when they heard a voice calling for Carson. Realizing that the only person in the room with them was Adam, both were immediately at his side.
“Sergeant? How are you feeling?” Carson asked while checking over his vitals.
“Like I’ve been hit by two freight trains and dropped off the side of the Grand Canyon.” Adam said with what little bit of a voice he had.
“You look the part.” John said, trying to get a smile out of him. Adam appreciated John's sense of humor.
“Do you think I could get some water? My throat is killing me.”
“I think that could be arranged.” John told him, then walking over to the side to let Carson tend to him. Activating his earpiece, he immediately contacted Elizabeth. “Dr. Weir, this is Sheppard.”
“Go ahead, John.”
“I just thought I’d let you know that Stackhouse is awake.”
“That’s great. I’ll be down there in a few minutes.” Walking back over to Carson and Adam, john joined in on the conversation. Despite his skin being very pale and the bandages, Adam appeared to be doing very well. Trying to sit up, Adam felt like his head was about to explode. Catching him before he fell back too hard, Carson and John pulled on him slightly to help him sit up. “Easy.” John told him, positioning a pillow behind his back to help support him. After he had been situated, Carson handed him a cup of water. Placing one hand behind his back, John used his other hand to help steady Adam’s as he was drinking. About that time, Elizabeth, along with Teyla, came into the infirmary. Looking towards Elizabeth, he had a slightly amused look on his face. “You must have ran to get here this fast.”
Smiling, she gave her answer. “Actually, I did. Plus I used the transporter. And Teyla was already on her way here so I just met up with her.” While giving her explanation, both she and Teyla had made their way over by Adam’s bed.
“Good enough for me.” John said, smiling.
“Sergeant, how are you feeling?” Teyla had asked after John and Elizabeth's amusing situation.
“Tired and sore. A little light headed but I think the pain in my chest is what hurts the most though.”
“That’s understandable. You had quite the ordeal.” Teyla said, voicing her concern and relief as well.
“What exactly happened last night?” Adam asked. Instantly, Adam noticed everyone’s expression. “Colonel? What’s wrong?”
“It’s been a lot longer than you think.” John told him.
“Sir?” Adam asked confused.
Stepping up to take over, Carson began. “Son. You’ve been unconscious for a little over a week. We nearly lost you three times, but you were able to pull through it. A little quicker than I expected, actually.”
Leaning back against the bed, Adam let the information he had just been told sink in. “What happened?”
“We’re still working on that,” Elizabeth began, “We don’t know much. There haven’t been any references to anything like that happening before the city was abandoned. We still haven’t fully reviewed all the information, but when we find something out, I’ll let you know personally.”
“Thank you ma’am.” Adam told her.
Placing her hand on his shoulder, Teyla started saying what needed to be said. “We should let you rest. I hope you are well soon, sergeant.”
“Teyla’s right. He needs rest.” Carson told them, beginning to usher them away. When the other three had left, Carson was the only one who was left. “Sergeant, if you need me, I’ll be around. Just call.” He told Adam after helping him lie back in the bed.
“Thanks Doctor Beckett. Oh, before you go. Do you think you could do something about the lights?” Adam asked.
“Sure.” When Carson left Adam’s side, he walked over to a control panel near the door. After hearing the tones of the crystals, the lighting above Adam instantly dimmed. The only light that was left was from the illuminated crystals on the column next to where he was lying. Closing his eyes, Adam tried to let sleep overtake him. Just as he had started to doze off, Adam suddenly heard what he thought was voices. Lots of voices near him. Opening his eyes and leaning up, Adam started searching around the room.
“Hello?” Nobody responded, however, Carson came around the corner.
“Is everything alright, sergeant?” He asked with a look of concern on his face.
“Was there anybody else in here just a second ago?”
“I’m afraid not. Other than you, I’m the only one in here.”
“I was sure I heard someone else talking.”
“Your body has been under a massive strain. What you heard could have been a trick your mind was playing on you while trying to process everything. Just try ignoring it and get some rest. But if persists, let me know and I can give you something to help you sleep.” Carson reassured him. Patting Adam on the shoulder, Carson gave him a smile then walked off. When Carson's footsteps could no longer be heard, Adam once again closed his eyes and drifted off into a deep sleep.
Around mid afternoon the next day, Adam’s strength was beginning to return to him. Although not fully back, Adam was able to regain more movement in his muscles, which had become stiff due to lack of activity. The bandage that was around his head covering the fracture at the back of his skull had also been removed. John had joined Adam in the infirmary while he was updating Adam on his physical condition. Eager to leave the infirmary, Adam desperately tried to talk John into convincing Carson into releasing him.
“Sir, please. I really need to get out of here.”
“Sergeant, you do realize what happened to you right?” John asked, not really wanting the younger man to over exert himself, but understanding where he was coming from.
“Yes, sir, I do. But these walls are starting to suffocate me. Plus, I’ve never really been one to be stuck in a hospital room for any length of time.” Adam pleaded.
“Stackhouse, have you happened to see a clock or calendar lately? You’ve been out like a light for a week only been awake for twelve hours. Twelve and a half if you include the thirty minutes you were talking while you were half asleep.”
“Yes, sir, but…”
“In other words, you haven’t been conscious in here long enough to be losin’ it.” John told him, still trying to convince him that he would be better off staying in the infirmary. Hearing the commotion, Carson came over to see what was going on.
“Is there a problem gentlemen?”
“It seems you have an impatient patient, doc.” John told him, smiling.
“Eager to leave, are we?” Carson asked, looking at Adam with a grin on his face. “Am I that bad of company?”
“No, sir.” Adam told him, kind of embarrassed. “I really appreciate what you’ve done for me but I just really need to get some air.”
“Well I don’t see any harm in releasing you.” Carson began after giving it some thought. “However, I do want you to stop by periodically for follow ups. Colonel, would you be so kind as to get the wheelchair from around the corner?”
“No problem, Doc.” As John went to get the wheelchair, Carson walked over to his desk and picked up a small container and a medium sized box. Walking back over to Adam, he placed the container on the bedside table and began to disconnect the monitors that Adam was hooked up to.
“Doc, I really don’t think that a wheelchair is necessary.” Adam told him. Carson ignored him and just gave him a skeptical look, continuing to disconnect the equipment. After he had fully disconnected Adam from the electronics, Carson then proceeded to get the medical tape and some gauze off of the table next to the bed. Gently pressing the gauze on top of the IV, Carson began to pull needle out of the top of Adam’s hand. Adam couldn’t help but flinch slightly when the needle was fully out but as soon as it was out completely, Carson placed a strip of tape over the gauze to secure it. Then picking the small container again, he began to explain it.
“This ointment is for the burn on your chest. Apply it as needed, but mainly before you go to bed. These,” he said holding up the box, “are to help you sleep.” By that time, John had returned with the wheelchair, apparently having stopped to take the time to somebody. With John holding the chair steady, put one hand on Adam’s shoulder and the other around his waist to help try and steady him. Luckily he had made the right choice in taking those precautions. As soon as Adam’s feet were on the floor and he shifted his weight, he nearly fell face first onto the floor. Using his weight to pull him up, Carson eased Adam around to sit him down in the wheelchair. After making sure he was in properly, Carson reached down and pressed the foot props down for Adam to rest his feet on. “Now remember, the key is to get a lot of rest.”
“Dr. Beckett, when do you think I’ll be able to go back on active duty?” Adam asked before John started to wheel him away.
John couldn’t really believe what he was hearing. Either Stackhouse was incredibly stupid or admirably committed.
“Are you serious?” Carson asked, dumbfounded. “Son, do you even realize what’s happened to you? You were nearly killed, you can’t even walk properly yet and you’re asking about going back on duty? I can tell you this much, it won’t be for at least two more weeks.”
John noticed the expression on Adam’s face and knew he was getting ready to object, but quickly intervened. “Sergeant, take it from an expert. It’s not wise to argue with a doctor after he has spoken.”
“Yes, sir.” Adam said, defeated.
“Now remember, get ample amounts of rest and apply the ointment before you go to bed. And when possible, try to massage your muscles or do a light form of work to help get your strength back fully. But other than that no more off-world mission for a while.” Feeling that he and Carson together had won a small battle, John began wheeling Adam out of the infirmary and towards his quarters. After five minutes of being pushed in the wheelchair, Adam was still uncomfortable about his ordeal and not being able to go back on duty for so long. Finally, he just decided to let it go. Besides, with John being his superior officer, what he thought really didn’t matter. Sheppard put what was best for his people above everything else. Although getting closer to his quarters. Adam began to feel uneasy. However it was not about his health situation. Out of the corner of his eye, Adam thought he saw two figures in the corridor adjacent to the one they were in. Turning, what he saw had vanished as quickly as it had appeared, if it were ever there at all. Noticing and becoming concern, John thought he might inquire on the situation.
“You okay?” He asked after glancing down the other corridor quickly himself.
“Yes, sir. I thought I saw someone, but it was probably just my mind playing tricks on me again.”
“Again?” Not really wanting to go into great detail about the previous night’s experience Adam just gave John the same explanation that Carson had given him.
“You know, the whole stress deal. My mind trying to comprehend everything.” Just nodding and accepting it, John left it at that. Adam, not wanting to think about that anymore either, leaned his head back and closed his eyes for the remainder of the trip. Finally reaching Adam’s quarters, John pushed the wheelchair cattycornered to the door, reaching over and pressing the crystal to open the door.
Adam’s room was neatly organized, unlike his own, so it was easy to make his way over to the bed with having to steer the wheelchair. Leaning down and locking the wheels in place, John placed one arm around Adam’s back and used his other hand to gently pull on Adam’s non-bandaged hand. Still uneasy on his feet, Adam once again nearly fell, but his balance was better than it was earlier in the infirmary.
“Take it easy.” John told him. Helping him steady himself, John walked Adam over to his bed and eased him down. Still in the hospital clothes, Adam really wanted to change but he was still feeling groggy from the medicine that was still coursing through his veins. Deciding to wait on changing, he felt it was better for him to try and take a small nap before trying to adjust to life off duty.
“Thanks for the help, sir.” Adam told John, looking up at him.
“Anytime. Like the doc said, get some rest. Call if you need anything.” John said, heading back towards the door. Before he left, John paused and turned back to face Adam. “Oh, I nearly forgot. Dr. Weir wants you to stop by and pay her a visit when you feel up to it. She would come by but she’s really busy.”
“Yes, sir. I’ll do that.”
“Good. But get some sleep first. That’s an order.” John told him before leaving. As the door closed behind him, Adam glanced out the window next to his bed. The sun was still pretty high in the sky, but the lack of darkness didn’t keep him from getting to sleep. Gently lying back on his bed, Adam closed his eyes and once again let the peaceful feeling of sleep over take him.
Adam’s rest did not last long however. Jerking wide-awake hours later, covered in sweat, he began having flashbacks to the pain of what happened a week earlier. He was unsure of the time but could tell it was late evening or early morning. The sun had disappeared beneath the horizon and the stars were shinning brightly in the sky above. Sitting up, Adam pulled off the shirt he had on. Wincing at the pain he felt from the burn on his chest, he reached over and opened the box with the sleeping pill. Swallowing two pills dryly, he then reached for the small jar, which he had also placed by his bed. Putting a small amount on his fingertips, he began to gently rub the ointment onto his burn. Immediately feeling a cooling effect, he replaced the jar back on the table by his bed. Before going back to sleep, Adam quickly began massaging his arms and legs to ease the tenderness out of his muscles. Leaning back, he laid there until the sleep medication kicked in.
When morning came, Adam felt relaxed and fully rested. Well, almost fully. His muscles were still sore and his chest still hurt like hell. Leaning up and moving to a sitting position, Adam once again began massaging his muscles. After a few minutes of rubbing his arms, legs, and back, Adam slowly got up. Still a little woozy, he steadied himself on the few objects tall enough for him to reach out and hold on to. Gradually, he made his way to his bathroom. Stripping off the rest of the hospital garments he was wearing, Adam turned his shower on to the hottest setting that he could stand. Once he had gotten the temperature adjusted to where he wanted it, Adam stepped in and began letting the hot water flow over his body. Instantly he could feel some to the tension begin to leave his muscles. He didn’t know how long he just stood there, nor did he care. It wasn’t like he had to be anywhere at a certain time. After about fifteen minutes in the shower, Adam turned the water off and stepped out. Drip-drying for a minute, he began to feel uneasy once again. Knowing that he should be the only one in his bathroom, Adam couldn’t help but glance around, just to make certain that he was in fact alone. Though he could not see anything, through the steam in his bathroom he began to hear talking. Not seeing anyone, Adam wrapped a towel around his waist and went back to the living space.
“Hello?” he called out. No one showed themselves to him. However, the talking he heard was still persistent. “Is anyone in here?” he asked once again. Still no one could be seen. The voices began to fade away after a minute more. Confused but wanting an explanation, Adam began telling himself that what he heard was coming from the hall. He continued to think that until he started to believe it, not wanting the thought that he was going crazy to begin slipping into his mind. After the whole ordeal, Adam went to his closet to get dressed and try to put what had just happened behind him. At first, he almost grabbed one of his uniforms but then remember that he wasn’t on duty for two more weeks. Grabbing a pair of gray cargo pants, a long sleeved white shirt with a black short sleeved one to go over it, Adam dressed as quickly as his muscles would allow. He felt uncomfortable not wearing his usual military attire but figured that he would have to get used to it. When he was fully dressed, he slowly made his way towards the control room in order to meet with Dr. Weir.
As Adam made his way to the gate room’s lower level, he took the steps one at a time, resting after he took a few at a time. Normally, he would have been able to conquer the steps in no time at all. But unfortunately, that was not the case this time. When he finally made it into the control room, Adam was unsure of all the stares he was receiving. Some were of concern; others seemed to be happy that he was up and about. And still, there were those who didn’t even notice that he was even in the control room. Through the glass, he could see that Elizabeth was in her office, sitting at her desk looking over some documents. Using the rails of the catwalk bridging, the control room to her office, Adam finally made it to her door. Knocking, not wanting to startle her, he made his presence known.
“Dr. Weir? You wanted to see me?” Looking up, she gave him a smile.
“Sergeant, please come in. Have a seat.” Allowing him to sit down and settle in, Elizabeth began organizing the many different folders and papers on her desk.
“I apologize for being out of uniform ma’am. But it’s doctor’s orders.” Adam told her apologetically.
Elizabeth really didn’t notice that at first. However, she did have to admit, it seemed a little odd seeing Stackhouse out of uniform. “Please, don’t worry about that. How are you feeling?”
“Better. Still a little sore though.”
”Well, it’s good to see you up and about. I’m sorry for making you come all this way up here in your condition but with everything that’s been going on, I just don’t really think that I could have found the time.”
“It’s okay, ma’am. The exercise will be good for me.” He told her giving her a small smile. Quickly returning the smile, her expression changed to one of seriousness.
“I wanted to let you know, we were able to get a reading from the gate’s data log. We’re cross-referencing the data from the Ancient database to see if we can find a match. If we can figure out where this incident originated, maybe I can give you the answers that I know you’re dying to know.”
“Thank you ma’am. Is that all?”
“No. Colonel Sheppard and Doctor Beckett told me about your eagerness to get back out there. Just know, that out of all the people here in Atlantis, you are one of the more hard working individuals I know. Take the time and make the most out of your time off.”
“Understood.” Adam told her nodding. Getting up to leave, Adam turned towards the door back into the control room.
“Oh and Sergeant?” Elizabeth began, stopping Adam before he could fully exit.
“Yes, ma’am?”
“Feel free to stop by any time if you need to talk or need anything.”
“Thank you, ma’am. I will.” With that, Adam made his way back into the control room and back down the stairs. Feeling kind of hungry and wanting some “real” food, Adam began to make his way towards the mess hall. Before heading directly to the mess hall, Adam decided that he would stop by the infirmary and ask Dr. Beckett about any types of side effects that the medicine that he had given him might have. Further down the corridor, Adam happened to see someone that he did not recognize turn off into another corridor. “Excuse me.” He called out to the stranger, but received no response. Reaching the corridor where the unknown person had turned, Adam looked down the hall but saw no one. But what confused him the most was that there were no doors or other access points until much farther down. And the stranger couldn’t have been more than a couple of minutes ahead of him. Not enough time to reach the first door. Standing in the hallway, confused, Adam did not know what to make out of what was happening.
Chapter 3
Chapter 2
Since the incident, all gate activities had been suspended. Once Teyla had returned from her trip to the mainland, she was briefed on incident that had occurred hours earlier. McKay, Zalenka, and a few other scientists were still trying to determine what had happened. But none of the readings they were getting were making any sense. In passing, John had noticed that some of the minor damages had been repaired. But some damage was too much just to paint over. Stackhouse lay in the infirmary barely hanging onto life, having to be resuscitated two more times before the night was over. Drowning out the clatter in the control room, John made his way across to Elizabeth’s office. There, she herself was going over what little information that had been figured out and relayed to her laptop. Pausing at her door, unsure that his presence had been noticed, he knocked on the glass door.
Looking up at John, Elizabeth leaned back in her chair, put her hands on her face and started massaging the exhaustion out of her muscles. “John. Come in.”
Continuing over to her desk, John pulled out one of the chairs in front of her, taking a seat. “You look like hell,” he told her as he sat down.
“You don’t look any better.” She countered, placing her hands on her lap. “How’s Stackhouse?”
“Actually I was just on my way down to check on him. I just stopped by to see how you were.” John told her while doing his best to recline in the chair he was sitting in.
“Me?” she asked with a confused look on her face.
“Yeah. I know how you feel when someone gets hurt in the line of duty. I’m feeling the same way right now. Stackhouse is a part of both sides. You’re in charge of the expedition and I’m in charge of the military personnel.”
“Right. Actually, I could use a break. Mind if I join you?”
“Not at all. The more the merrier, I say.” Getting up, both headed towards the door and started their way down to the infirmary. Along the way they met up with Teyla. Although they were not close, Teyla had worked with Adam at times on a few missions and felt that she should also check in on his progress. In the infirmary, Carson was discussing the condition of another soldier when the trio arrived.
“Just keep your arm in a sling and ice it every now and then and it should be fine.” Carson told the young woman as she slid off the bed and positioned the sling that one of the other nurses had just handed her.
“Thank you, Doctor.” She told him in passing. “Colonel, Dr. Weir, ma’am.” The lieutenant acknowledged as she passed them on her way out.
“Oh good. You’re here.” Carson said when he noticed that they had arrived.
“Is something wrong, Dr. Beckett?” Teyla asked when she noticed the slight hint of concern in Carson’s voice.
“Not really, no. Stackhouse seems to be improving. But it’s going to take some time for him to wake up.”
“That’s good to hear.” Elizabeth said, a small feeling of relief in her voice. Glancing to her right, she saw John staring at Adam. Lying there, Adam looked so peaceful. They could only imagine the pain that he was in and what he had went through a few hours before. If it weren’t for the oxygen line, the multiple machines that were hooked up to his body, and the bandage around his head, John could have sworn that he was just sleeping off a long, boring night of watch duty.
“Do we know the extent of his injuries?” John asked, pulling his gaze away from Adam.
“He suffered a major concussion along with his chest being burned by whatever it was that hit him. The burn isn’t serious and shouldn’t leave a scar if properly medicated. I’ve also got him on a mild sedative to help him relax and speed up the healing process.” Carson told him, but moving over to get a printout that was on his desk. “However there is one thing that’s bothering me.”
“What?” John asked, immediately overtaken with concern.
“Well, this is a printout of Stackhouse’s last EEG taken on his last checkup.” He told them, handing Elizabeth the paper with John looking over her shoulder. “I hooked him up to another monitor to check for any signs of brain damage. This was done just a while ago.” This one, he handed to John. “Every now and then, his brainwave readings change drastically. I don’t know if it’s just his body trying to process the stress and physical strain or something else. But I do know I’ve never seen anything like it before.” The difference could clearly be seen. The radical changes in the charts were worrisome. All four looked at each other with concern, concerned for Adam and concern for themselves, wondering if whatever had happened would happen again.
He could hear voices. They weren’t clear but he could tell they were voices. He also felt pain. His head was throbbing so hard that it hurt when he even tried to think. Slowly, Adam tried to open his eyes. Big mistake. When the pain didn’t fully stop him, the light did. Suddenly he had a momentary flashback to the gate room. The light that he had seen just before he had passed out, quickly flashed in his mind before he clenched his eyes shut to avoid the pain. As his hearing began to clear up he could tell that one of the voices was that of Dr. Beckett; the Scottish accent standing out above everything else. While not fully up to par, Adam could tell that Carson had sent whoever was with him on an errand of some kind. Gathering what little strength he had, Adam opened his eyes again, but this time, more slowly than his first try. As the initial pain faded, all he could see were just bright blurs. Keeping his focus, his vision became clearer, albeit fuzzy. But fuzzy was better than his previous visual state. Opening his mouth to try and talk, no sound came out. He instantly regretted that. His throat was so dry that trying to talk caused him to feel like he was being strangled. Swallowing a few times to try and moisten his throat, Adam once again tried to speak. Although he was unsuccessful in getting Carson’s attention, he was able to go from nothing at all to an inaudible whisper. No sooner had he tried his second attempt, he heard the voice of Colonel Sheppard come in.
”Hey, doc. Teyla really did a number on me this time, so I’m gonna need some strong pain killers for tonight.” Hearing John’s complaining, Carson couldn’t help but laugh. Adam then heard him walk over to a table, apparently getting some type of pain medications. Carson’s footsteps could then be heard walking back towards John. “Thanks, Doc. You know, after all this time, you think I could figure a way to beat Teyla at her own game.” Mustering his strength, Adam gave it his all in trying to get Beckett’s attention.
“Dr. Beckett.” Finally, it came out. Barely a whisper but it was audible. However was it enough to get Beckett’s attention? Not really expecting it, Carson and John were kind of surprised when they heard a voice calling for Carson. Realizing that the only person in the room with them was Adam, both were immediately at his side.
“Sergeant? How are you feeling?” Carson asked while checking over his vitals.
“Like I’ve been hit by two freight trains and dropped off the side of the Grand Canyon.” Adam said with what little bit of a voice he had.
“You look the part.” John said, trying to get a smile out of him. Adam appreciated John's sense of humor.
“Do you think I could get some water? My throat is killing me.”
“I think that could be arranged.” John told him, then walking over to the side to let Carson tend to him. Activating his earpiece, he immediately contacted Elizabeth. “Dr. Weir, this is Sheppard.”
“Go ahead, John.”
“I just thought I’d let you know that Stackhouse is awake.”
“That’s great. I’ll be down there in a few minutes.” Walking back over to Carson and Adam, john joined in on the conversation. Despite his skin being very pale and the bandages, Adam appeared to be doing very well. Trying to sit up, Adam felt like his head was about to explode. Catching him before he fell back too hard, Carson and John pulled on him slightly to help him sit up. “Easy.” John told him, positioning a pillow behind his back to help support him. After he had been situated, Carson handed him a cup of water. Placing one hand behind his back, John used his other hand to help steady Adam’s as he was drinking. About that time, Elizabeth, along with Teyla, came into the infirmary. Looking towards Elizabeth, he had a slightly amused look on his face. “You must have ran to get here this fast.”
Smiling, she gave her answer. “Actually, I did. Plus I used the transporter. And Teyla was already on her way here so I just met up with her.” While giving her explanation, both she and Teyla had made their way over by Adam’s bed.
“Good enough for me.” John said, smiling.
“Sergeant, how are you feeling?” Teyla had asked after John and Elizabeth's amusing situation.
“Tired and sore. A little light headed but I think the pain in my chest is what hurts the most though.”
“That’s understandable. You had quite the ordeal.” Teyla said, voicing her concern and relief as well.
“What exactly happened last night?” Adam asked. Instantly, Adam noticed everyone’s expression. “Colonel? What’s wrong?”
“It’s been a lot longer than you think.” John told him.
“Sir?” Adam asked confused.
Stepping up to take over, Carson began. “Son. You’ve been unconscious for a little over a week. We nearly lost you three times, but you were able to pull through it. A little quicker than I expected, actually.”
Leaning back against the bed, Adam let the information he had just been told sink in. “What happened?”
“We’re still working on that,” Elizabeth began, “We don’t know much. There haven’t been any references to anything like that happening before the city was abandoned. We still haven’t fully reviewed all the information, but when we find something out, I’ll let you know personally.”
“Thank you ma’am.” Adam told her.
Placing her hand on his shoulder, Teyla started saying what needed to be said. “We should let you rest. I hope you are well soon, sergeant.”
“Teyla’s right. He needs rest.” Carson told them, beginning to usher them away. When the other three had left, Carson was the only one who was left. “Sergeant, if you need me, I’ll be around. Just call.” He told Adam after helping him lie back in the bed.
“Thanks Doctor Beckett. Oh, before you go. Do you think you could do something about the lights?” Adam asked.
“Sure.” When Carson left Adam’s side, he walked over to a control panel near the door. After hearing the tones of the crystals, the lighting above Adam instantly dimmed. The only light that was left was from the illuminated crystals on the column next to where he was lying. Closing his eyes, Adam tried to let sleep overtake him. Just as he had started to doze off, Adam suddenly heard what he thought was voices. Lots of voices near him. Opening his eyes and leaning up, Adam started searching around the room.
“Hello?” Nobody responded, however, Carson came around the corner.
“Is everything alright, sergeant?” He asked with a look of concern on his face.
“Was there anybody else in here just a second ago?”
“I’m afraid not. Other than you, I’m the only one in here.”
“I was sure I heard someone else talking.”
“Your body has been under a massive strain. What you heard could have been a trick your mind was playing on you while trying to process everything. Just try ignoring it and get some rest. But if persists, let me know and I can give you something to help you sleep.” Carson reassured him. Patting Adam on the shoulder, Carson gave him a smile then walked off. When Carson's footsteps could no longer be heard, Adam once again closed his eyes and drifted off into a deep sleep.
Around mid afternoon the next day, Adam’s strength was beginning to return to him. Although not fully back, Adam was able to regain more movement in his muscles, which had become stiff due to lack of activity. The bandage that was around his head covering the fracture at the back of his skull had also been removed. John had joined Adam in the infirmary while he was updating Adam on his physical condition. Eager to leave the infirmary, Adam desperately tried to talk John into convincing Carson into releasing him.
“Sir, please. I really need to get out of here.”
“Sergeant, you do realize what happened to you right?” John asked, not really wanting the younger man to over exert himself, but understanding where he was coming from.
“Yes, sir, I do. But these walls are starting to suffocate me. Plus, I’ve never really been one to be stuck in a hospital room for any length of time.” Adam pleaded.
“Stackhouse, have you happened to see a clock or calendar lately? You’ve been out like a light for a week only been awake for twelve hours. Twelve and a half if you include the thirty minutes you were talking while you were half asleep.”
“Yes, sir, but…”
“In other words, you haven’t been conscious in here long enough to be losin’ it.” John told him, still trying to convince him that he would be better off staying in the infirmary. Hearing the commotion, Carson came over to see what was going on.
“Is there a problem gentlemen?”
“It seems you have an impatient patient, doc.” John told him, smiling.
“Eager to leave, are we?” Carson asked, looking at Adam with a grin on his face. “Am I that bad of company?”
“No, sir.” Adam told him, kind of embarrassed. “I really appreciate what you’ve done for me but I just really need to get some air.”
“Well I don’t see any harm in releasing you.” Carson began after giving it some thought. “However, I do want you to stop by periodically for follow ups. Colonel, would you be so kind as to get the wheelchair from around the corner?”
“No problem, Doc.” As John went to get the wheelchair, Carson walked over to his desk and picked up a small container and a medium sized box. Walking back over to Adam, he placed the container on the bedside table and began to disconnect the monitors that Adam was hooked up to.
“Doc, I really don’t think that a wheelchair is necessary.” Adam told him. Carson ignored him and just gave him a skeptical look, continuing to disconnect the equipment. After he had fully disconnected Adam from the electronics, Carson then proceeded to get the medical tape and some gauze off of the table next to the bed. Gently pressing the gauze on top of the IV, Carson began to pull needle out of the top of Adam’s hand. Adam couldn’t help but flinch slightly when the needle was fully out but as soon as it was out completely, Carson placed a strip of tape over the gauze to secure it. Then picking the small container again, he began to explain it.
“This ointment is for the burn on your chest. Apply it as needed, but mainly before you go to bed. These,” he said holding up the box, “are to help you sleep.” By that time, John had returned with the wheelchair, apparently having stopped to take the time to somebody. With John holding the chair steady, put one hand on Adam’s shoulder and the other around his waist to help try and steady him. Luckily he had made the right choice in taking those precautions. As soon as Adam’s feet were on the floor and he shifted his weight, he nearly fell face first onto the floor. Using his weight to pull him up, Carson eased Adam around to sit him down in the wheelchair. After making sure he was in properly, Carson reached down and pressed the foot props down for Adam to rest his feet on. “Now remember, the key is to get a lot of rest.”
“Dr. Beckett, when do you think I’ll be able to go back on active duty?” Adam asked before John started to wheel him away.
John couldn’t really believe what he was hearing. Either Stackhouse was incredibly stupid or admirably committed.
“Are you serious?” Carson asked, dumbfounded. “Son, do you even realize what’s happened to you? You were nearly killed, you can’t even walk properly yet and you’re asking about going back on duty? I can tell you this much, it won’t be for at least two more weeks.”
John noticed the expression on Adam’s face and knew he was getting ready to object, but quickly intervened. “Sergeant, take it from an expert. It’s not wise to argue with a doctor after he has spoken.”
“Yes, sir.” Adam said, defeated.
“Now remember, get ample amounts of rest and apply the ointment before you go to bed. And when possible, try to massage your muscles or do a light form of work to help get your strength back fully. But other than that no more off-world mission for a while.” Feeling that he and Carson together had won a small battle, John began wheeling Adam out of the infirmary and towards his quarters. After five minutes of being pushed in the wheelchair, Adam was still uncomfortable about his ordeal and not being able to go back on duty for so long. Finally, he just decided to let it go. Besides, with John being his superior officer, what he thought really didn’t matter. Sheppard put what was best for his people above everything else. Although getting closer to his quarters. Adam began to feel uneasy. However it was not about his health situation. Out of the corner of his eye, Adam thought he saw two figures in the corridor adjacent to the one they were in. Turning, what he saw had vanished as quickly as it had appeared, if it were ever there at all. Noticing and becoming concern, John thought he might inquire on the situation.
“You okay?” He asked after glancing down the other corridor quickly himself.
“Yes, sir. I thought I saw someone, but it was probably just my mind playing tricks on me again.”
“Again?” Not really wanting to go into great detail about the previous night’s experience Adam just gave John the same explanation that Carson had given him.
“You know, the whole stress deal. My mind trying to comprehend everything.” Just nodding and accepting it, John left it at that. Adam, not wanting to think about that anymore either, leaned his head back and closed his eyes for the remainder of the trip. Finally reaching Adam’s quarters, John pushed the wheelchair cattycornered to the door, reaching over and pressing the crystal to open the door.
Adam’s room was neatly organized, unlike his own, so it was easy to make his way over to the bed with having to steer the wheelchair. Leaning down and locking the wheels in place, John placed one arm around Adam’s back and used his other hand to gently pull on Adam’s non-bandaged hand. Still uneasy on his feet, Adam once again nearly fell, but his balance was better than it was earlier in the infirmary.
“Take it easy.” John told him. Helping him steady himself, John walked Adam over to his bed and eased him down. Still in the hospital clothes, Adam really wanted to change but he was still feeling groggy from the medicine that was still coursing through his veins. Deciding to wait on changing, he felt it was better for him to try and take a small nap before trying to adjust to life off duty.
“Thanks for the help, sir.” Adam told John, looking up at him.
“Anytime. Like the doc said, get some rest. Call if you need anything.” John said, heading back towards the door. Before he left, John paused and turned back to face Adam. “Oh, I nearly forgot. Dr. Weir wants you to stop by and pay her a visit when you feel up to it. She would come by but she’s really busy.”
“Yes, sir. I’ll do that.”
“Good. But get some sleep first. That’s an order.” John told him before leaving. As the door closed behind him, Adam glanced out the window next to his bed. The sun was still pretty high in the sky, but the lack of darkness didn’t keep him from getting to sleep. Gently lying back on his bed, Adam closed his eyes and once again let the peaceful feeling of sleep over take him.
Adam’s rest did not last long however. Jerking wide-awake hours later, covered in sweat, he began having flashbacks to the pain of what happened a week earlier. He was unsure of the time but could tell it was late evening or early morning. The sun had disappeared beneath the horizon and the stars were shinning brightly in the sky above. Sitting up, Adam pulled off the shirt he had on. Wincing at the pain he felt from the burn on his chest, he reached over and opened the box with the sleeping pill. Swallowing two pills dryly, he then reached for the small jar, which he had also placed by his bed. Putting a small amount on his fingertips, he began to gently rub the ointment onto his burn. Immediately feeling a cooling effect, he replaced the jar back on the table by his bed. Before going back to sleep, Adam quickly began massaging his arms and legs to ease the tenderness out of his muscles. Leaning back, he laid there until the sleep medication kicked in.
When morning came, Adam felt relaxed and fully rested. Well, almost fully. His muscles were still sore and his chest still hurt like hell. Leaning up and moving to a sitting position, Adam once again began massaging his muscles. After a few minutes of rubbing his arms, legs, and back, Adam slowly got up. Still a little woozy, he steadied himself on the few objects tall enough for him to reach out and hold on to. Gradually, he made his way to his bathroom. Stripping off the rest of the hospital garments he was wearing, Adam turned his shower on to the hottest setting that he could stand. Once he had gotten the temperature adjusted to where he wanted it, Adam stepped in and began letting the hot water flow over his body. Instantly he could feel some to the tension begin to leave his muscles. He didn’t know how long he just stood there, nor did he care. It wasn’t like he had to be anywhere at a certain time. After about fifteen minutes in the shower, Adam turned the water off and stepped out. Drip-drying for a minute, he began to feel uneasy once again. Knowing that he should be the only one in his bathroom, Adam couldn’t help but glance around, just to make certain that he was in fact alone. Though he could not see anything, through the steam in his bathroom he began to hear talking. Not seeing anyone, Adam wrapped a towel around his waist and went back to the living space.
“Hello?” he called out. No one showed themselves to him. However, the talking he heard was still persistent. “Is anyone in here?” he asked once again. Still no one could be seen. The voices began to fade away after a minute more. Confused but wanting an explanation, Adam began telling himself that what he heard was coming from the hall. He continued to think that until he started to believe it, not wanting the thought that he was going crazy to begin slipping into his mind. After the whole ordeal, Adam went to his closet to get dressed and try to put what had just happened behind him. At first, he almost grabbed one of his uniforms but then remember that he wasn’t on duty for two more weeks. Grabbing a pair of gray cargo pants, a long sleeved white shirt with a black short sleeved one to go over it, Adam dressed as quickly as his muscles would allow. He felt uncomfortable not wearing his usual military attire but figured that he would have to get used to it. When he was fully dressed, he slowly made his way towards the control room in order to meet with Dr. Weir.
As Adam made his way to the gate room’s lower level, he took the steps one at a time, resting after he took a few at a time. Normally, he would have been able to conquer the steps in no time at all. But unfortunately, that was not the case this time. When he finally made it into the control room, Adam was unsure of all the stares he was receiving. Some were of concern; others seemed to be happy that he was up and about. And still, there were those who didn’t even notice that he was even in the control room. Through the glass, he could see that Elizabeth was in her office, sitting at her desk looking over some documents. Using the rails of the catwalk bridging, the control room to her office, Adam finally made it to her door. Knocking, not wanting to startle her, he made his presence known.
“Dr. Weir? You wanted to see me?” Looking up, she gave him a smile.
“Sergeant, please come in. Have a seat.” Allowing him to sit down and settle in, Elizabeth began organizing the many different folders and papers on her desk.
“I apologize for being out of uniform ma’am. But it’s doctor’s orders.” Adam told her apologetically.
Elizabeth really didn’t notice that at first. However, she did have to admit, it seemed a little odd seeing Stackhouse out of uniform. “Please, don’t worry about that. How are you feeling?”
“Better. Still a little sore though.”
”Well, it’s good to see you up and about. I’m sorry for making you come all this way up here in your condition but with everything that’s been going on, I just don’t really think that I could have found the time.”
“It’s okay, ma’am. The exercise will be good for me.” He told her giving her a small smile. Quickly returning the smile, her expression changed to one of seriousness.
“I wanted to let you know, we were able to get a reading from the gate’s data log. We’re cross-referencing the data from the Ancient database to see if we can find a match. If we can figure out where this incident originated, maybe I can give you the answers that I know you’re dying to know.”
“Thank you ma’am. Is that all?”
“No. Colonel Sheppard and Doctor Beckett told me about your eagerness to get back out there. Just know, that out of all the people here in Atlantis, you are one of the more hard working individuals I know. Take the time and make the most out of your time off.”
“Understood.” Adam told her nodding. Getting up to leave, Adam turned towards the door back into the control room.
“Oh and Sergeant?” Elizabeth began, stopping Adam before he could fully exit.
“Yes, ma’am?”
“Feel free to stop by any time if you need to talk or need anything.”
“Thank you, ma’am. I will.” With that, Adam made his way back into the control room and back down the stairs. Feeling kind of hungry and wanting some “real” food, Adam began to make his way towards the mess hall. Before heading directly to the mess hall, Adam decided that he would stop by the infirmary and ask Dr. Beckett about any types of side effects that the medicine that he had given him might have. Further down the corridor, Adam happened to see someone that he did not recognize turn off into another corridor. “Excuse me.” He called out to the stranger, but received no response. Reaching the corridor where the unknown person had turned, Adam looked down the hall but saw no one. But what confused him the most was that there were no doors or other access points until much farther down. And the stranger couldn’t have been more than a couple of minutes ahead of him. Not enough time to reach the first door. Standing in the hallway, confused, Adam did not know what to make out of what was happening.
Chapter 3