Title: Stargate SG-1 – New Beginnings
Summary: Can career driven Samantha Carter finally lay to rest the ghosts of her past and find true happiness? A/U
Pairing: Lieutenant Colonel Samantha Carter & Original Female Character.
Rating: MA for realist sexual content and language.
Disclaimer: The following story is purely a work of fiction created by borrowing characters from a television series for the purpose of entertainment. Characters other than originals remain the property of creators Brad Wright & Jonathan Glassner. No profit is gained nor is any copyright infringement intended towards Sony Pictures Television, Gekko Film Corp & MGM Worldwide Television.
A/N: If you take the time to read, please be kind and review.
Chapter 1
Lieutenant Colonel Samantha Carter of the United States Air Force stood waiting patiently at her position on the bottom of the Gate ramp in the Embarkation Room. She was dressed in navy blue SG-1 battle fatigues and checking the weight distribution of the forty pound kit on her back. After ten and a half years of wearing the extra gear, it had become her second skin and at times, she still felt naked without it. Carter suddenly fidgeted with her long blonde pigtail, trying to suppress her nerves before returning her right hand over the butt of her P90 rifle. She was due to be introduced to the newly appointed Stargate Base Commander and no one throughout the complex had any inkling as to who it was.
Since the invasion threat to Earth and the near annihilation of the Milky Way Galaxy from the Ori had been nullified for over six months with the discovery of the Ark of Truth, there had been several changes to the Stargate Project, least of all the personnel. Major General Hank Landry had been transferred to Homeworld Security and his position had been filled in a caretaker capacity by Major General Peter Swain.
The fight against the Ori had taken a heavy toll on all SG teams based on Earth and the Pegasus Galaxy, and in the end, seventy two SG members had perished. They in turn, had been replaced by others eager to take up the challenge of defending their planet and her neighbouring worlds. SG-1 had remained stoic at the front line of defence with the other SG squads until the ultimate resolution had been discovered thus ensuring an end to the battle.
The SG teams had been hailed as heroes, but for the members of SG-1, the accolades did not sit well upon their shoulders. Lieutenant Colonel Cameron Mitchell and his team had been humble in receiving praise from the various sections of the Military and world Governments that were privy to the true functions of the Stargate Commands on Earth and Atlantis under the provisions of the Gate Alliance Treaty.
During the last stand against the Ori, Mitchell had received a serious leg injury and immediately requested a leave of absence. It was granted and he spent six months away from the Cheyenne Mountain Complex recuperating. Carter knew the real reason for such a long break - Mitchell was drained both physically and mentally and needed to regroup. He was burnt out and had nothing left to give to the SGC. Mitchell had spoken to Carter and discussed the matter at length when they had both been in the Infirmary during their last post-mission physical. Mitchell had felt he was beyond continuing with the Project and if he didn't take the time off, he would certainly resign. Carter gave him her full support and wished him well. The friends kept in contact regularly via phone or e-mails and after each conversation, Mitchell had sounded more positive, relaxed and had regained his passion for his career.
Lieutenant Colonel Sam Carter had been put in charge of SG-1 during Mitchell's absence and thoroughly relished being the Commanding Officer once again. The vacant position left by Mitchell on the team was backfilled on a mission to mission basis and it was with great relief, that SG-1 welcomed Mitchell back some two weeks earlier.
-o-
Twenty minutes prior to entering the Embarkation Room, Carter had been working in her laboratory situated on sublevel twenty one on samples that had been brought back during the current off-world mission by SG-1. Carter had sworn loudly when her work was interrupted by the phone ringing. She had just about finished cataloguing the last of the specimens on the table and wasn't happy about the intrusion. Pushing away from the table, the scientist had walked over to the wall phone and lifted the receiver to her ear.
"Carter!" she'd answered loudly with annoyance.
"Sorry to disturb you ma'am, but you are required to jump in thirty minutes and the new base Commander has asked that you meet him A-SAP in the Embarkation Room."
"On my way," replied Carter. She'd quickly finished up in the lab and run to the locker room to change into battle fatigues. Next stop had been a quick pre-mission medical check, followed by a visit to the armoury.
Now, as she waited for the arrival of the new Commander Officer, she wondered why she was needed back on P4X-277. Mitchell, Daniel and Teal'c had the situation well under control, hence the reason she had returned twelve hours previously on her own with the examples.
Carter checked her watch; there were still ten minutes before the Gate was due to be opened and turned to face the nearest blast door to her right when she heard it slide open. A Security Force team entered and took up position around the room. She observed two other people enter closely thereafter and her face broke into a wide grin the instant she recognised one of the duo; it was Lieutenant General George Hammond. Sam immediately stood to attention and saluted her former Commander. No matter how hard she tired, she couldn't erase her smile, so gave up trying.
Hammond returned salute then directed, "At ease Colonel Carter."
Carter instantly relaxed and looked at the person standing beside the General. She noted they were wearing Colonel rank insignia and wearing black SG battle fatigues. Sam was strangely intrigued with the tall stranger and wondered who they were, why they were wearing an SG uniform with SG-1 badges on the sleeves and why they were with George? Her thoughts quickly returned to reality and she said, "It's good to see you out of retirement Sir."
Hammond winked at her and replied, "It's very good to be back at SGC Sam. I was starting to tire of being around the Oval Office advising the President."
Sam noted the casualness of Hammond's reply, but wasn't prepared when he stepped forward and drew her into his embrace and whispered into her ear, "I have missed you my dear girl."
Sam was close to losing her composure, but held herself in check, "I missed you too George. It wasn't quite the same around here without you."
George smiled broadly, "Well, let's change that, shall we?"
It took all she had to keep the tears at bay, "I am with you Sir."
When the pair separated, they both returned to military persona - although Sam was still grinning madly.
Hammond stepped back and introduced the other officer, "Lieutenant Colonel Samantha Carter, I'd like to introduce Colonel Dana Ridley. Colonel Ridley is joining us here at the SGC and is the newest member of SG-1."
Sam's smile disappeared instantly and was replaced by an inquisitive scowl. "Sir?" she inquired curiously.
Hammond grinned crookedly at her, "Colonel Carter, since the battle with the Ori highlighted the necessity for our existence, it seems the Government and Homeworld Security have had a shake up and have seen fit to provide us with extra funding and staff. Colonel Ridley is one of many new staff allocated to the Project."
Colonel Ridley, who had stood by quietly the entire time, finally moved forward and offered her hand to Sam.
Sam cleared her mind of Hammond's declaration and shook the proffered hand, "Pleased to meet you Colonel and welcome to SGC." The handshake was firm and controlled while Sam noted the dark green eyes staring back at her. She withdrew her hand slowly and waited.
"Thank you Colonel Carter, it's a pleasure to meet you."
Sam's knees buckled slightly as an inner thought made its presence, "Oh … my … God, that voice is sheer rhapsody." It had been over three years since she had been affected by another's voice; three years and six long painful months to be exact. After her best friend, lover and wife, Doctor Janet Fraiser, had been killed in the line of duty, Sam had initially struggled to overcome the enormity of her loss and grief. Janet had been slain while saving the life of another SG team member, but her heroic sacrifice offered little comfort for Sam as she tried to find a way out of the pain fog she had been engulfed in at the time.
She had finally come to terms with the sorrow twelve months ago, but it took a lot of hard work and support from her friends, Daniel, Teal'c, Jack, George, Sara and her adoptive daughter Cassandra. They'd managed to bring her out of the darkness that was slowly suffocating her and she returned to some semblance of the life she had known before Janet had loved her.
Janet had specified in her will that Sam was to have sole custody of Cassie. The condition had been made five years prior to her death, when Cassie was only thirteen and the codicil had been a moot point. Cassie had already turned eighteen and was preparing to attend University, but she had asked Sam if she could live in her house and not Janet's. Sam had agreed as the memories in the residence were too raw for both of them. It was where they had spent most of their time together as a happy family. Sam's dwelling had practically been empty for five years, but still held recollections of Janet and resulted in Sam selling the house and buying another for her and Cassie. Slowly over the past year she had begun to display more mementoes of Janet around her two storey abode. All of Janet's possessions, except for a few personal items, had been endowed to Cassie and placed in storage until she decided what to do with them.
Major General Jack O'Neill and Doctor Daniel Jackson had organised the move for Cassie and the eventual sale of Janet's house. Sam had been unable to enter the home and the already close bond she shared with Cassie continued to strengthen as they sought solace in one another's company.
To everyone's surprise, Sam had decreased the amount of time she usually spent at the base and when off duty, remained by Cassie's side. She had even resigned from the Stargate Command and taken up a position with Area 51 so as to have better working hours and be more available to her daughter. The talented scientist had been lured back to SGC two years ago when the threat of the Ori had intensified and she was now currently content with her life with Cassie and her career.
On the other hand, Cassie had matured rapidly during the past three years and was currently in her third year of a Medical Degree at Yale University. Sam was extremely proud of her achievements and missed her dearly while she was away from home.
-o-
As Sam stepped back from Colonel Ridley, she was overcome with her memories of Janet. Tears formed in her eyes as she chastised herself for being disrespectful to Janet and the love they had shared. She had no business being smitten by the Colonel's tone, so she lowered her cap to cover her eyes and the evidence of her betrayal.
Hammond noticed the tears, cleared his throat and explained, "Colonel Ridley comes to us via the Pentagon where she has spent the past five years with the Intelligence Section."
Sam tried to lighten her mood by saying, "Very impressive. I hope you are not here to spy on us for Henry Hayes' band of non-believers?"
Colonel Ridley laughed in a deep husky pitch, "Rest assured Lieutenant Colonel, I, like President Hayes, am an advocate for the work you do. I am here to be part of the action, five years behind a desk has done my body no favours."
In spite of herself, Sam giggled and retorted, "That's okay, because action is constantly on the menu here at SGC."
Ridley smiled back at Sam and nodded. Sam couldn't help but look the woman over as she was distracted with the Gate chevron sequence beginning.
"Two minutes to Gate opening," came the announcement over the speakers.
Ridley stood by in awe as the Gate's inner track started to activate.
"Chevron one encoded," boomed Chief Master Sergeant Walter Harriman over the intercom system.
With the diversion occupying Ridley, Sam took the opportunity to take a closer look at her new team member. She stood about three inches taller than herself, so had to be around the six foot mark. Ridley's dark brown hair fell just below the collar of her shirt and was slightly wavy. Sam had noted earlier that Ridley's eyes were a deep shade of jade, but now she noted they were surrounded by the longest black eyelashes she had ever seen. Sam's line of sight lowered and took in the broad shoulders, straight back, svelte waist, slender hips and long legs. She suddenly thought to herself, "I seriously doubt five years behind a desk had interfered with her physique." From what Sam could make out from under the fatigues and kit, Colonel Ridley had the build of a top class sportswoman. She appeared to be toned for strength and endurance and the look suited her well. Sam's examination was interrupted with the announcement that chevron six was encoded and locked.
Ridley turned to face Sam and spoke, "Colonel Carter, I want you to know that I am looking forward to being part of your team."
Hammond interjected, "Colonels, you are to rendezvous with Colonel Mitchell, Doctor Jackson and Teal'c at their latest base camp. Colonel Ridley has the coordinates. Colonel Carter, Colonel Ridley will be your third in command. I will leave it to you to make the introductions to the others. God speed Colonels." General Hammond stepped back and left the room to return the Control Room.
Sam took a step back and Ridley automatically followed. "A word of advice, you may experience some nausea your first few times through the Gate until you became accustomed to the sensation of feeling like you have been frozen solid, it's a result of your molecules being compressed while they undergo reconstitution for about a millisecond," elucidated Sam as she checked her G.D.O.
"Thanks for the guidance, but I have it covered. I read the experience is similar to pulling out of a bombing run in a fighter plane at 8-plus Gs." Ridley reached into her top breast pocket and popped a couple of multi coloured candies into her mouth.
Sam was about to inquire as to their origin and expand on the theory when the Gate activated. Ridley stood in wonder as the Energy Vortex appeared. Carter smiled at the other woman's reaction to the phenomenon.
Once the light blue wave retracted and settled into the Event Horizon, Sam stepped up onto the platform and Ridley followed. Sam took a quick glance at Ridley and giggled at the expression of pure delight on the Colonel's face; she resembled the proverbial kid in a candy store.
Overhead, Hammond's voice came over the speakers, "You have a go Colonels."
Ridley reached out with her left hand, touched the blue wave and watched the fluctuation of the Event Horizon. "Bloody hell," she whispered. "Colonel Carter you must explain to me how much energy the Gate has to create to form a stable wormhole when we have a spare moment."
Sam noted the other woman's hesitancy and was reminded of her first time through the Event Horizon and O'Neill's reaction all those years ago. She smirked at Ridley and said, "Welcome to SG-1 Colonel and watch that first step, she's a doozy." Just like Jack had done to her over ten years ago, Sam placed her hand on Ridley's back and pushed her into the rippling wave. She was still laughing as she stepped into the shimmering blue pool a nanosecond later.
-o-
When Sam exited the Gate, Ridley was standing in a defensive position at the bottom of the dirt ramp. The blonde had expected to see her doubled over and avoiding vomiting like she had. Sam notified command that they had arrived and to close the Iris.
"You can relax Colonel. There are no hostiles on this world. How you feeling?" said Sam was she stepped down from the top of the incline.
"I'm pretty good actually," Ridley answered with a sly smile. "What a rush and please, call me Ridley," she replied while surveying the unfamiliar terrain.
"All right, so tell me, what was it you took before you jumped?" inquired Sam intriguingly.
Ridley smiled cheekily at her companion, "I'll explain it to you later." She took out an electronic compass and added, "We better get moving and find the others. Here's the coordinates."
Sam was surprised when Ridley handed over the electronic compass and even more surprised by the tingle of desire she felt for the woman with the incredible smile. Totally flustered, she took the proffered device from her new team mate. "Thanks," she said, looking at the screen and getting her bearings.
Ridley just grinned at Sam's obvious nervousness, "Hey Carter, it's your team and I am the new kid on the block. My intention is to stand back and learn how the experts do it. Besides, I don't want to step on anyone's toes nor do I want you shooting me on my first mission for pissing you off or getting in the way."
Sam laughed heartily at the summation, "I respect that Ridley and you will fit in just fine." She checked the screen again and motioned to her right.
Ridley automatically took up a defensive six position behind Sam and followed cautiously, occasionally taking a moment or two to admire the view.
-o-
Two hours later the officers located the campsite surrounded by heavy foliage and lush grasslands.
Daniel spotted them exiting the undergrowth and yelled out, "HEY SAM, I DIDN'T EXPECT TO SEE YOU BACK SO SOON OR WITH COMPANY." He looked at the tall, eye-catching woman accompanying Sam and noted her rank. He automatically offered his hand in greeting, "Colonel, I am Doctor Daniel Jackson, welcome to P4X-277."
Ridley stretched out her hand and shook Daniel's, "Nice to meet you Doctor Jackson. I have read and heard some amazing reports about your impressive work. I am a true admirer of your accomplishments and am looking forward to working closely with you."
Daniel fidgeted with his glasses, looked at Sam and questioned, "Working?"
Sam patted Daniel on the shoulder and interjected, "I'll explain it all in a minute."
Daniel sneezed and took out a nasal spray from his top pocket, "Okay Sam, I can wait."
Sam looked around and inquired. "Where are Teal'c and Mitchell?"
Daniel pressed the spray into each nostril and inhaled, "They are off exploring, but should be back soon."
"Good, we need to have a team meeting," announced Sam as she off-loaded her kit. "In the meantime, we need to make a few changes to the sleeping arrangements."
Daniel adjusted his glasses on the bridge of his nose then nodded, "No problem."
"Daniel, can you bunk in with Teal'c? Ridley and I will utilise your tent."
"Super, mine is the one furthest on the left. I tried to get as far away from Mitchell's snoring as I could."
Sam and Ridley both laughed at Daniel's assessment. Sam laughed harder because she knew due to his allergies; Daniel was a bad snorer himself. She stopped laughing and asked, "I assume Teal'c had the same idea and that is his to the right?"
"You got it," replied Daniel in between fits of laughter.
Ridley stood by and watched the comical interplay between Sam and Daniel. She realised they were more than just team mates and were close friends that obviously shared a strong bond.
Sam helped Daniel move his gear and Ridley took a moment to familiarise herself with the surroundings. After a moment she was lost in her own thoughts as they returned to a fortnight earlier. When she had been approached by senior Officers to join the Stargate Project, she had done her research on the Stargate Command from the classified files handed to her and was overwhelmed by the work carried out by the secretive joint forces' unit. She located the service files on all members of the SGC and paid particular attention to SG-1. She read as much as she could on them, including their past Commanding Officer, Major General Jonathon (Jack) O'Neill. Ridley had heard copious anecdotes about O'Neill around the Pentagon and was impressed with his file and outstanding service record. By the time she had completed reading all the dossiers, she had gained a healthy respect for all the members of the elite unit. The achievements the group had made over the past ten years were nothing short of extraordinary and she had jumped at the chance to work with them and return to active duty full time. Dana had been given the opportunity for more excitement then she could throw a cow at and there were many benefits to being posted to Cheyenne Mountain Complex. She was looking forward to embracing her new position and experiencing fresh adventures.
-o-
Once Daniel and Sam had re-located his belongings into Teal'c's shelter, Ridley followed Sam into the tent they would be sharing to store her gear.
"Which side of the bed would you like to sleep on?" asked Sam as she slipped her pack off her shoulders.
Ridley looked at the standard double blow up bed and replied, "Left side thanks."
"Perfect, I prefer the right." Sam stowed her kit in the corner and exited the tent. She was immediately greeted by her second in command.
Mitchell quipped, "Yo Carter! What are you doing back here and out of your lab?"
"I couldn't keep away from you."
Mitchell laughed gregariously, "Now, that's what I'm talking about."
Sam giggled heartily at his tomfoolery. She was glad to have Cameron back with the team and totally rejuvenated. She had missed him sorely and rejoiced in his vigorous laughter.
Teal'c stepped out of his tent seconds later and approached Sam, "It is indeed good to see you again Samantha."
"Likewise Teal'c. Listen guys, we have to have a team conference."
"Sounds rather serious Carter," joked Mitchell with a roll of his blue eyes. "I'll go give Daniel a hand and hurry him up."
"It is important and I advise you to be on your best behaviour when you return."
Mitchell entered the storage tent and Teal'c inched closer to Sam.
Sam patted him on the back and said, "I haven't had the chance to ask you yet, but how has Cameron been while I was away?"
"He has indeed been good Samantha, much like he was before the final battle with the Ori. He also stated it was good to be back with the band again."
Sam tittered at the comment. "Thank you Teal'c." Sam appreciated the fact that as a Jaffa, her friend had no propensity for lying.
"Indeed, you are most welcome Samantha." Teal'c excused himself and went to assist the others.
-o-
Ridley exited the bivouac moments later and took up position beside Sam. Removing her cap, Ridley secured it to the flap on her trouser leg. She ran her left hand through her layered brown hair and glanced towards the tent.
Sam watched out of the corner of her eye and grinned idiotically.
Ridley caught the other woman's observation, but chose to ignore it. It wasn't right of her to respond to Sam's curiosity. She was certain it was nothing more than an avid interest in ascertaining her suitability to be part of SG-1. Everything she did would be scrutinised by the team Commander and as the newbie, she expected no less.
Sam changed her line of sight and looked towards the three men exiting the storage marquee. Mitchell immediately turned his attention to Ridley. He remembered what Sam had said about behaving and realised the reason why when he looked at the stranger's insignia.
Saluting, Mitchell announced, "Welcome to camp Colonel, I am Lieutenant Colonel Cameron Mitchell."
After returning salute, Ridley replied, "Thanks for the welcome, but I believe this is the last place to stand on ceremony and please call me Ridley." A smile spread across her face and Mitchell relaxed.
"Phew, couldn't agree more," he replied. "Wicked!" he thought to himself. "What an incredibly sexy voice and how god damn beautiful is this woman?"
Sam smirked at Mitchell's reaction, she was certain he was blushing. "Mitchell and Teal'c let me introduce Colonel Dana Ridley."
"Indeed, it is a pleasure to meet you Colonel Ridley," responded Teal'c.
"It's nice to meet you Teal'c." She held out her hand to both men and accepted their strong handshakes in turn.
Sam noted the look of question on Mitchell's face and continued, "Ridley joins us from the Pentagon and is the latest addition to our team."
"Ahh, enemy territory," ribbed Mitchell.
"You could say that, but I am with the good guys now," bemused Ridley. Her remark made the others relax with laughter.
Daniel stepped forward, "In that case, welcome to SG-1 Ridley."
"Thank you Daniel."
"So where does that leave me in the chain of command?" inquired a nonplussed Mitchell.
"Exactly where you are Mitchell, there is to be no change," answered Sam.
Mitchell chuckled with relief, "It's all good Sam."
Daniel took the opportunity to change the subject, "Now that we have two extra pairs of hands, we should be able to wrap up this expedition in the next two days, if not sooner."
Mitchell sighed, "That's the best news I have heard all day Sunshine. I have a cold bottle of Coors anxiously awaiting my return."
That comment brought a collective chuckle from the group and a slap on Mitchell's back from Teal'c.
-o-
The sun was starting to set and Ridley checked her Black Hawk Special Ops watch, "As I am the new kid in town, how about I cook dinner tonight?"
Mitchell patted Ridley on the shoulder, "Hallelujah, you just saved the others from my disastrous lack of culinary skills."
Teal'c produced a rare smile, "Indeed Colonel, I thank you."
"I second that," joked Daniel.
Sam chose to be diplomatic, "No comment."
Ridley scoffed, "In that case, I best make a start." She left the others and entered the mess tent.
Sam watched her walk away before saying, "Guys I forgot to mention we have a new base Commanding Officer."
Mitchell screwed up his face, "Great, another one to break in."
"No, we are spared all that crap thank goodness. It's Lieutenant General Hammond," replied Sam excitedly.
Mitchell exclaimed animatedly, "WHAT!"
Daniel was grinning madly at the comment, "Brilliant news."
"Indeed, this is good news for us all," added Teal'c.
"It sure is guys," remarked an enthusiastic Carter. "It was so good to see him again, it's been a while. We have also been given more funding from the government."
"Is that the reason we have Ridley joining us?" asked Daniel.
"Yes, but I believe from what little Hammond told me, the SGC has been given an increase in staff in other areas too."
"It sounds like all that Ori business finally woke them up," noted Mitchell impressively.
Sam nodded, "It would appear so, but it's all to our advantage."
Daniel laughed before speaking, "Remind me to make a list of all the new equipment I need for my Lab."
Mitchell raised his hand, "I'll get in on a piece of that action."
"Actually, it will be good to have an extra team member," noted Sam reflectively.
"And it doesn't hurt when that person happens to be gorgeous and has an incredibly raunchy voice," remarked Mitchell with more than a glint in his eyes. "Ridley is very easy on the eyes," he added. "She is absolutely stunning."
Sam stopped herself from commenting and stating the obvious about fraternising with a superior.
Daniel chimed in, "Don't worry Sam; Mitchell says the same thing about you."
"Nice Cam, I didn't know you noticed," teased Sam.
Mitchell stared at Daniel, slapped him on the shoulder and said, "For letting that bit of info slip out, you can help me set the table."
After the team had eaten their meal, Mitchell offered to help clean up and do the dishes while Daniel volunteered to help him.
As the pair moved away, Teal'c stood up from the table, "I will see you all in the morning. Colonel Ridley, thank you for a most enjoyable meal."
"You are welcome Teal'c, see you."
"Night Teal'c," Sam called as he exited the tent. "How about we go sit by the fire," she suggested. "It gets fairly cold here overnight."
"Count me in," replied Ridley eagerly. "It will give me the chance to learn more about all of you."
-o-
After settling in a chair opposite Sam, Ridley admitted, "I like Teal'c and his file certainly makes for some interesting reading."
Sam smiled across the bonfire at her, "In time, you will come to love him like we do. By the way, he likes you too. I have never heard him talk so much to someone he has just met."
Ridley was chuffed by the comments, "I feel privileged then."
Daniel and Mitchell joined the two women and sat down. All four chatted for another two hours before deciding to retire to their respective tents for the evening.
Sam stood and pointed towards a smaller tent semi-hidden in the line of surrounding trees, "The mobile bathroom is over there. I suggest you use it now before Mitchell uses up all the hot water."
"Thanks Carter and I appreciate you making my first day a smooth transition."
"Welcome, but I really don't think it was me that made it easy. I think you did that all on your own. Mitchell never offers to do dishes or clean up. He was trying to impress you."
Ridley snickered, "That's a waste of time." She excused herself and entered the tent. Seconds later, she emerged carrying clothing, a toiletries bag and headed towards the bathroom.
Sam watched her go by and noted the Colonel had taken off her vest, long sleeved shirt and boots. She couldn't help but notice the way Ridley's muscles flexed in her arms as she strutted along. They were left uncovered by her tank top and were in plain sight. Her arms were well developed and gave Teal'c and Daniel a run for their money in the toned department. Sam averted her eyes away from the bathroom and busied herself by adding more wood to the fire.
As the planet was inhabited with only non-threatening fauna and flora, there was no need for a night watch. Sensors had been set up around the perimeter of the camp and any curious or hungry animal would soon be detected. Besides, Teal'c didn't sleep. He would be in the meditation state of kel'no'reem and would be quick to respond to any sign of threat or danger.
-o-
After checking the sensors for a final time, Sam made her way to her tent. She retrieved her toiletries; Air Force issued shorts and tee shirt. Looking up from her kit when she heard Ridley enter, she burst out laughing when she saw the brunette dressed in a bright pink tee shirt and matching shorts.
"Yeah, I know," acknowledged Ridley embarrassingly. "They were a farewell gift from the guys and girls from my section. Apparently, they were specially made for me."
Sam stopped laughing long enough to say, "Very fashionable Ridley."
"Well, I thought I would wear them at least once, besides they are the only ones I have available at the moment."
Sam was still tittering as she exited the bivouac.
Ridley smiled at the blonde's apparent amusement. Setting aside her trousers and other clothing, she turned down the portable light. Going to the bed, she pulled back the covers and slid inside. She made herself comfortable, lying on her back with her fingers interlocked behind her head. Ten minutes earlier, she had been tired, now she was wide awake. Ridley patiently waited for Sam's return, she had a few questions she wanted to ask.
-o-
The first thing Sam noticed when she entered the tent was the lack of lighting. Obviously Ridley had turned it down because she wanted to sleep. The shelter was dimly illuminated, but Sam had no trouble in making her way around.
Ridley quietly asked, "Can you see all right?"
Sam started to organise her clothing, "Yes. By the way, no one probably had time to tell you before we left, but we don't wear rank insignia on missions."
"Thanks for the heads up," replied Ridley gratefully as she watched Sam neatly fold her undershirt, shirt and trousers, draping them over a nearby fold up chair. She giggled softly, "You are a little anal retentive, aren't you?"
Sam turned in her direction, "You could say that. It's just from habit."
"I used to be that particular about it too, but I soon learnt that when you are out in the field nobody gives a toss what you look like. Of course, needless to say, I am just as meticulous as you when it comes to my uniforms when on base."
Sam chuckled, "You have a good point. Usually after an off-world mission you return smelling and looking like a pig on most occasions."
"I have no doubt about that. I must say, I am looking forward to the experience."
"You are fortunate your first mission is to an uninhabited world. This camp is a luxury. We don't usually have a mobile bathroom, supplies, cooking equipment or tents. So live it up while you can."
Ridley laughed in reply, "I will Carter."
Sam turned off the light and felt her way to the top of the bed. Easing under the covers, she relaxed. "Mind if I you a question Dana?" she asked, rolling onto the back.
"No, go ahead Sam."
"How did you end up in the United States Air Force with that accent?"
Ridley cackled throatily, "Easy. I joined the Royal Australian Air Force when I was seventeen and I worked my arse off to become a pilot. Fifteen years ago, I was involved in a training exercise with you guys and blew your planes out of the sky. My skills caught the eye of the top brass that were there and they asked the RAAF to second me to the States. That led to a permanent position and I obtained dual citizenship years ago and have been here ever since."
Sam exhaled loudly, "That's very impressive."
"Apparently," Ridley replied with a hint of sarcasm.
Sam noted the lack of bravado and inquired, "What about your family, don't you miss them?"
Ridley sighed heavily before answering, "I do but not for the reason of being separated by distance."
Sam heard the sadness in Ridley's voice and let out a soft, "Oh."
"My parents perished in a bush fire a year after I joined up."
"Oh Dana, I am so sorry," offered Sam sincerely.
"Don't be. These things happen, as you well know."
"You know about my mother then?" asked Sam, intrigued that Dana had taken the time to learn such a detail.
"I certainly do. I have read up on all the SGC personnel files."
"That makes sense considering your last appointment."
Ridley shifted slightly in the bed, "Well, I wanted to know as much as I could about you guys. It made for some very fascinating reading."
"You know, I will be looking up your records when we get back to base. I can't have you one up on me," humoured Sam.
Ridley sniggered at the bold statement, "I would be disappointed if you didn't Sam. I have to say, your service record and file are exceptional."
Sam blushed and humbly replied, "Thank you Dana."
"I was particularly impressed with you playing hardball with the men and winning. I respect you for that and for the fact you made Lieutenant Colonel before the age of forty."
Sam turned a brilliant red and was thankful for the mask of darkness, "Thanks again. It's been a struggle at times, but my attitude has never changed – they play hard, I play harder."
"I applaud you Sam and I know where you are coming from."
"Of course, you do. I mean, I have only known you for half a day and already know you must have been just as determined to make it to where you are. You can't be older than me and you have a higher rank. That's a stellar accomplishment."
"Thank you and by the way, you are the elder at thirty nine. I turned thirty seven in March."
Sam yawned and muttered, "That wasn't a bad guess then."
"Yes and I'm sorry for keeping you awake with all this chatting."
"It's okay. I am enjoying our talk."
"I doubt you will think that in the morning when your eyeballs are hanging out of your head."
Sam giggled and conceded, "True."
"On that note, I will bid you goodnight."
"Goodnight Ridley."
-o-
Sam took a while to fall asleep. She hadn't had to share a bed with someone for over three years and she found it a little daunting. She finally surrendered to slumber's pull and before long; visions of Janet invaded her dreams.
Ridley's quest for sleep continued for a little longer. She couldn't stop thinking about the woman lying beside her. Two weeks earlier, after seeing Sam's photo in her dossier, she had been sunk. She found the woman to be beyond beautiful and fell hard. It was not something she had ever felt before, especially without actually meeting the person. She was surprised by the fact she had felt an instant attraction for the good looking, short haired blonde with amazing blue eyes.
After studying Sam's file, Dana had been left with a deep respect for the Lieutenant Colonel. She had achieved so much in her ten years with the SGC and her previous active duty tours as a pilot and her stint with the Pentagon painted a picture of a determined, fiercely loyal and hyper intelligent woman – qualities Ridley admired. As a member of SG-1, Sam had been instrumental in saving Earth from the threat of invasion or extermination on numerous occasions and only a handful of people outside of the SGC had knowledge of the extent of SG-1's accomplishments. Ridley had known nothing of their existence until she was asked to join the team. When made aware of their work, she had been shocked initially, but then was left in awe and grasped the opportunity to be a part of SG-1.
When Ridley had walked into the Embarkation Room hours ago, she'd called on all her strength to avoid making a fool of herself and saying something stupid. She had felt like a school girl facing the object of a teenage crush and had to remind herself to remain professional and not lose her head. Dana did however, notice something different about Samantha Carter, her hair was much longer and she wore it in a lengthy pigtail. The look completely changed her appearance and Dana was more than taken with the transformation. Dana's thoughts finally gave way to sleep and were replaced with dreams of Samantha Carter.
-o-