Lingerings Chapter 2

The next day 40 minutes past 0900

Jack was tapping his pencil impatiently on a pad of paper. He had given up on his doodles, let alone note-taking. His right leg was shaking in a frustrated and anxious manner. Boredom did no justice at describing his present state of mind.

"Aerial drones did a fly over and I noticed there is a village less than a mile from the gate. They seem to be an inquisitive race of beings as further exploration with the M.A.L.P. led to first contact with a humanoid by the name of Fasithe. Fasithe seemed genuinely glad to have SG-1 visit them on their world which they call Cresh'ua." Daniel paused, seeking questions from his teammates and General Hammond. Noting the 'here we go again' look on the general's face, he added, "Fasithe mentioned some caves full of pictographs; he said he would be happy to show us. They seem friendly enough." He couldn't hide the 'Can we please, please go?' look in his eyes.

"Very well, Dr. Jackson. That will be all." he said looking at the extremely off task Colonel O'Neill. He then directed his attention to the lost in thought Major Carter. "Major, before you go, I need you to finish your preliminary report on that," The General paused, as if searching for the right word, "piece of technology that SG-3 brought back yesterday. Without objections you have a go, first thing tomorrow morning. Dismissed."

As General Hammond headed for his office, SG-1 began to collectively stand up and gather their paperwork, coffee mugs, and other standard issue effects.

"Sounds like the usual meet and great, eh Carter?"

"Actually Colonel, I am looking forward to this meeting. The atmospheric readings were intriguing and I can't wait to..."

"That sounds really interesting Major;I am just abounding with joy." O'Neill's face scrunched up and his eyebrows furrowed. "I hear Teal'c can't wait to watch you play with your new alien doohickeys..." Teal'c arched his eyebrow as O'Neill sauntered off and out of the briefing room.

"Well that was... weird," stated Daniel, eyebrows knitted into a frown. He took off his glasses, wiped them on his shirt, inspected them, and placed them back on his face.

"No kidding," Sam agreed, blue eyes staring off toward the exit.

"Perhaps O'Neill is bored with the lack of action from our last few mission rotations." Teal'c inclined his head before he passed through the doorway, leaving the two scientists with bewildered looks on their faces.

"Y'know, I think that was sarcasm," said Daniel.

"Well, he has a point," stated Sam flatly. She too was beginning to feel the effects of routine.

Later that day after most of the base had felt the agitated annoyance that was Colonel O'Neill…

"O'Neill, would you not like to engage in physical activity with me?" The Jaffa loomed as Jack abruptly ran into him as he turned the corner.

"Hey, T. If you're trying to sneak up on me, you should try a little harder next time." O'Neill stepped back and jammed his hands in his pockets.

"Indeed."

"Well, only if you're sure you're up to it, big guy. I wouldn't want to tire you out now that you don't have ol' Junior to keep you going."

Teal'c let a small smile slide across his face as he slightly inclined his head, motioning the Colonel forward, as the two set off down the corridor for what passed for a gymnasium under Cheyenne Mountain.

"Soon, Dr. Frasier assures me, I will be free of any residual pains from the loss of my symbiote."

"Hey! That's great news, T! I betcha' can't wait!"

"Indeed."

"So, ya heard from Bray'tac lately?"

"Master Bray'tac is well. He is gaining more intelligence among the false gods, and is spreading the word amongst the ranks of the Jaffa."

"That sounds like him. How's Ry'ac?"

"He, too, is well. He soon expects to join the ranks of Free Jaffa."

"Ah. Tell him I said 'hi and congrats'."

"I will send him your regards."

The pair fell into a comfortable silence. When they reached the gym, Teal'c outfitted himself for the activity the Taur'i called 'kick boxing.' Jack felt more at ease sparring with Teal'c despite the fact that Teal'c could kill him with only a few swift movements. Jack did his best thinking while they sparred. It was easier to let his bottled up feelings out. Teal'c was accommodating to his friend's style of combat training. He seemed to sense when Jack needed to let off some steam.

"You ready?"

"I am indeed ready to begin." Teal'c raised his targets and awaited contact with Jack's gloved fists.

Right hook. Your fault.
Left jab. Charlie's dead.
Uppercut. Not good enough.
Right roundhouse kick. Stupid Frat Regs.
Left high kick. Samantha Carter.
Head butt. There's nothing you can do, dammit.