[ At least John is talking, which Charles takes as an opportunity to attempt to reach him the usual way-- but distance or something else, or both, make this a short lived attempt. ]
I do understand. I know what it's like to want to help people, having failed them once before. But you're part of Security, they have a way of doing things, yes?
Their way of doing things--you mean you think I need backup? [ He laughs, almost too easily. ] It's only Teer.
[ The calling is more urgent, and for almost forty seconds Sheppard says absolutely nothing at all, though the line is still open, made obvious by the sound of his feet in the corridor, footsteps occasionally pausing as he listens. ]
Deck 40. I think. It could be anywhere. Listen, it's going to be fine. I do this sort of thing all the time. Rescuing the beautiful damsel in distress, saving the day... You don't have to worry about me.
No, [ He says, answering a question that wasn't asked. Maybe he asked it of himself, firmly enough that it took shape-- ] It has to be Teer, who else could it be?
[ Chaya, Teyla, Larrin or Elizabeth. It feels like a woman's voice. Maybe it's Colonel Carter, but it feels... He wants to recognize the voice. He wants to with enough determination that he's convinced himself it's Teer, but there is so much room for doubt, and no time to let it in. ]
It doesn't matter about me. I have to go to her. I know you understand. [ Then he amends: ] You will understand, Charles.
No--no, I have to go. I have to go. [ A pause, and then it's very clear that Sheppard isn't talking to Charles any more. ] I'm coming. [ The sound of rushed footsteps and suddenly a heady whirl of static. ] Don't go -------- -- com---.
If you're about to tell me that you're going to follow the will-o-the-wisp into the bog too then I should put on record that I really would appreciate you didn't.
Lupin. William sent me a distress signal. Kate got through to Claire and Darcy. Over half a dozen more checking in from Nathan's total, and more people dropping offline as time goes on.
Then measures have to be taken to ensure we do not step so far into the trap that we are ensnared. I don't know what those are yet. Petrelli understands. I don't know how Tyke operates wrt ship behaviours.
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