Ethical questions come up for Weir (Torri Higginson), though Sheppard (Joe Flanigan) doesn’t seem to have any in Poisoning the Well. Written by Damian Kindler from a story by Mary Kaiser this episode was first broadcast on 20 August, 2004.

Sheppard’s team have made contact with the Hoffans, a human race that welcomes the team, and reveals that they are developing weapons to stop the Wraith. Carson (Paul McGillion) finds himself working with Perna (Allison Hossack) to develop a drug that could, if injected into a human subject, could stop the Wraith from feeding off of them. In essence, poisoning the well.

Weir is shocked to discover that they want to move onto human trials, by using the drug on a dying patient, and exposing him to the Wraith that Sheppard has captured and is holding in Atlantis. A Wraith they have christened Steve (James Lafazanos).

Weir and Carson are troubled by the implications of what they are about to do, no matter the rewards, but Weir gives the go ahead. Steve has offered information in exchange for sustenance.

When the Wraith dies, things get troubling for the Hoffans. If the Wraith learn about this weapon, they may wipe out the entire planet. The inoculated people could destory all the Wraith, but what happens when those who are inoculated fall deadly ill?

Will the Hoffans risk their entire civilization? Or will there be a better way to stop the Wraith still out there? And what will the cost be in the end?

This is the first episode where Carson is practically front and center, and I think from here his character begins to show up more and more. Which is fine with me, as he is wonderful.

Underground was first broadcast on 27 August, 2004. It was written by Peter DeLuise (no cameo) and features Colm Meaney!

Atlantis is hoping to organize a food trade with the Genii, who are led by Cowen (Meaney). They seem to be a simple people, living a simple life. And strong negotiators when it comes to trading. But appearances, as is often the case, can be deceiving.

Apparently, they are advanced enough to have nuclear weapons, and they are planning an attack against the Wraith. Something that McKay (David Hewlett) and Sheppard discover, and are joined by Ford (Rainbow Sun Francks) and Teyla (Rachel Luttrell).

Teyla, of all of them, is surprised the most by the technology the Genii have. They aren’t as simple as she was led to believe.

Is there a chance that they could become allies against the Wraith? Not when the Genii find out that Wraith have been roused from hibernation by Atlantis.

Sheppard may have a tentative plan that could turn the Genii into not entirely trustworthy allies. Sneak onto a still sleeping Wraith ship, and blow it up. And you just know that isn’t going to go off without a hitch…

Can the Genii be trusted? Can they be allies?

And what of the Wraith? Even more are awake now, and they may be headed Atlantis’ way.