Hang On

John Sheppard couldn't sleep despite Carson's urgings and near threatto have him removed from his current room. That was something Sheppardrefused to do. His stomach churning he tilted his head to stare at thesmall frame of the expedition's commander. Usually so strong and firm,her unconcious form quivered and shook. Small beads of sweat escapedfrom her pours.

Dr. Beckett had insisted that she'd be fine, that this ordeal wouldhave no effect on her physically. But it seemed like the entity thathad taken Elizabeth Weir over had different plans. She didn't want tolet go, even if it brought her host down with her. He couldn't help butwonder if Carson had merely been trying to mask the truth from him.

The Lt. Colonel risisted the urge to throw up. He had done this to her.Well, no, technically if either were to blame she had done this toherself. Still, he had agreed to coninue. He had shot her.

But you had no choice He tried to reason with himself, withminor sucess. No matter who or what was at fault he couldn't help butfeel guilty. He was supposed to protect the people of Atlantis. Andhere he was, unable to protect one of the most important people of themission.

Maybe Carson was right. Maybe he shouldn't have stayed here. No. Don't leave her alone. another shot from his - truly his- mind rang out.

"Elizabeth..." He whispered, as to not draw Carson's attention. "I knowyour in there. Listen, you've got to fight her. She can't be thatstrong now. I've seen you shoot down some of this galaxies biggestcreeps with that mouth of yours, I've seen you face a lot. Don't letthis old hag get the best of you." He spoke, hoping his words might atleast reach his friend.

"Please. Hang in there. We can't loose you to something like this. Hang on. Come back to me." He rambled.

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Based on a line from "The Long Goodbye".