For all of 30 seconds he lay there, filled with anguish.

"What have you done", he cried to the universe. "You said I'm the Chosen One – chosen for what? To be hurt and destroyed? To have that which means everything taken away? Why? Why are you doing this?"

As the first torrent of despair began to recede slightly he said again, but to himself this time. "The Chosen One? I am the Chosen One? So what the hell am I doing?"

With a deep breath he forced himself to calm down and began to concentrate. Why was he acting as if there was nothing he could do. Surely, now was the time to use what he had been given – to talk to Sam, to help her and his babies.

Without further thought he began to try and connect with her, talk to her.

"Sam, Sam are you there? Can you hear me?" For the next couple of minutes he tried to establish a connection with no luck. Focus Jack, come on – focus! He tried again.

This time, he felt something – a faint tingling as if he had reached a power source of some kind.

"Sam – come on, answer me!"

"Jack? Jack I'm here. Can you hear me?"

"Yes – are you all right? Did they hurt you?"

"No, I'm fine – just frightened. They have me in hand-cuffs, I can't get away. They're taking me somewhere, I don't know where. Jack, they said they want the baby. They don't know we're having twins. I'm so scared. What if they hurt them."

"Don't worry. We're coming soon. Do you have any idea of who they are?"

"No, although they seem to know a lot about us. I think some of them are ex-military. It's a well-run operation and they have the latest equipment so it's well financed."

"Sam, I'm going to get help. I'll stay connected so try to watch everything and let me know anything that might give me a clue. We'll get you soon, I promise. I'm not going to let anything hurt you or our babies. We have some serious fishin' time due – so you just hang on okay? Do whatever you have to to keep safe. We'll be there soon."

"Okay, I will. Are you okay? Can you handle this?"

"Ya sure. No more lazin around for me! General O'Neill is back at work and ready to kick some ass!"

"Welcome back General! I'll see you soon."

"Soon Carter! Out for now."

While he kept that connection as promised, Jack began to concentrate on his next steps. First, he knew he had to get help quickly. Although he could feel his mind and concentration returning, his body was still weak. He hadn't used his muscles for a number of months and so didn't have the strength to do anything.

Frustrated, he tried to figure out a way of getting help. The nearest phone was the other side of the room and he knew it would take forever for him to pull himself over. Okay, then, let's see if you can connect with someone else O'Neill. If he had to deal with all this crap over being chosen, he'd might as well see if there were some perks!

He concentrated fiercely, trying to see if he could contact Daniel or Teal'c to let them know he needed help. Focusing in on his two friends he simply repeated, over and over,

"I need help."

Five or Ten minutes passed and he finally collapsed back in exhaustion. He had used all his energy and couldn't do any more for now. He just hoped and prayed that they had heard him. After resting for a few moments, he realized he had to try and make it to the phone, just in case it hadn't worked. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath, and began a journey that, while short, would be an epic one for him.

"Teal'c, did you feel something?" Daniel paused in front of one of the exhibition booths and looked up at his friend.

"I did indeed Daniel Jackson. I feel like there is something important we must do. Something is wrong."

"Yeah, that's what I'm feeling too. I've got a really bad feeling about this."

The two men continued to stand still, puzzled as to what was happening, Suddenly, they both looked up at each other and, at precisely the same moment said,

"Jack/O'Neill!"

"We have to get back."

"Indeed and quickly. You should call Samantha and check to see if everything is fine."

Daniel pulled out his cell phone and dialed Jack's house. After 5 rings it immediately went to voice mail so he hung up.

"No one is answering Teal'c. I think we'd better call for some back up. Something is definitely wrong." The two quickly left the exhibit hall and headed to their car. On their way Daniel called David Ferris and explained the situation. David told them he would bring help.

On arriving at Jack's everything looked quiet. There was no evidence that anything was wrong but still, after year's of field experience, the two comrades approached carefully. Teal'c circled the house, looking for anything out of the ordinary, but found nothing. He finally took a careful look in through the front window.

"Daniel Jackson, quickly. I see O'Neill. He is on the floor and appears hurt. I do not see Colonel Carter."

At that Daniel pulled out his key and quickly unlocked the front door. Still being careful, the two men made their way into the living room.

"Jack, my God, are you okay", Daniel called as he ran over to where O'Neill lay on he floor. Covered with sweat and breathing heavily Jack looked up at him and gave a tiny grin.

"Bout time, Dnl. Been crawln frever."

"Jack, you can talk! Here, let me help." Teal'c and he together were able to lift Jack and put him on the couch where he leaned his head back and rested. Teal'c hurried to the kitchen to get a glass of water.

"Okay, what's happening? Where's Sam? Teal'c and I suddenly got the feeling that something was wrong and we came back. David is on his way with back up."

"Gd job Dnl. Tried to call yu. Smms kidnpd. Help!"

"Did you say Sam's been kidnapped? When? Why? Do you know what this is all about Jack?"

"I suggest you give him a moment to rest. Here O'Neill, drink some water, it will help." After Jack had had a few sips he did indeed feel better. He was less shaky, although still exhausted. The good thing is that minute-by-minute he began to feel stronger, more alert. He just wished it was easier to speak. Another thought struck him. Maybe it would be easier in Ancient? Deciding to test that theory he looked at Daniel and began speaking.

"Daniel, I think this is easier for me. Can you understand me?"

"Jack? Yes I can understand. You're speaking Ancient again."

"Yes, for some reason it's easier right now. Look, some men, I don't know how many, came in and grabbed Sam when she was in the kitchen. They must have entered through the back door. They told her they wanted her for some tests and the baby for some tests – they obviously didn't know there were two. They sounded like they knew exactly what they were doing. She thinks some of them were ex-military. She also said it was a well-planned, well-financed operation. I'm thinking maybe remnants of the Trust or maybe the NID. Sounds like something they would do. They probably also have some connections still with the Air Force which enabled them to get the info on us."

Both Daniel and Teal'c simply sat staring at Jack for a few seconds. When they had left that morning he had barely seemed aware of the world around him – only responding in minimal ways. They hadn't said anything to Sam but both were worried that this was as much as he was going to improve. Now, all of a sudden, the old Jack had come roaring back. Okay, he was speaking in Ancient, but he obviously had all his faculties. Just too bad it took something like this. God, could these two never get a break!

Snapping out of his reverie Daniel responded.

"How did you get all this? Are you and Sam 'talking' again, you know, 'telepathically'?"

"Yes – I've been able to reestablish the link. We're still in communication with one another. I've told her to tell me anything she can to give us a clue. So far she hasn't seen much – they've got her in the back of a van …. hold on! She said they've pulled into a building. Wait." He sat concentrating for while, clearly speaking with Sam.

"They are in some kind of warehouse she says. It looks old – like it hasn't been used in a while. She says it smells damp, like they're close to water. Okay, based on the time it was when they left here, it looks like it took them about 40 minutes to arrive where they are. Can someone get a map? It's in the desk in the hall. Let's see if we can figure out where they could be."

"Jack."

"Yes, what Daniel?"

"Uh – you remember that thing about the Ori? You know, you thought maybe you and Sam were responsible for them leaving?"

"Yes, I remember. What about it?"

"Well, do you think that you could try something like that again? Who knows, it might work."

Jack sat back for a moment, thinking about what Daniel had said. He supposed it wouldn't hurt to give it a try but he was worried that it might waste valuable time. Also, he didn't want to get his or Sam's hopes up.

"Look Jack. Teal'c and I will keep looking. David is also on his way with more help. Just try it. You should know pretty soon whether or not it works."

"Okay I guess. Just keep looking." He had been sitting on the couch the whole time, looking at the map and speaking with Daniel in Ancient. Still unable to move beyond small movements, he continued to try and get his body to obey him. The inability to move made him frustrated, especially as he was so worried and wanted to rush out and find Sam.

He leaned his head back and closed his eyes.

"Sam, are you there?"

"Yes, they've put me in a room by myself. I think the guy who grabbed me is conferring with whoever's in charge. Have you discovered something."

"Not yet but we're still looking. Sam, Daniel suggested we try that thing we did with the Ori. Are you game?"

"You mean 'think' the bad guys away?"

"Yeah, something like that. Maybe we could convince them to let you go. What do you say? It may not work – the Ori thing could have just been a coincidence."

"No, I agree. Let's try it. There's nothing lost if it doesn't work and it will keep my mind off things."

"How are you doing? I'm so sorry I couldn't help when they came."

"Jack, I'm fine. So help me if you start to blame yourself for this I'll, I'll, well I'll think of something and you'll be very sorry! It was not your fault. Now, let's get moving General Sir!"

"Yes Ma'am. Okay, so how do we do this?"

"Uh, I don't know. Why don't we both close our eyes."

"Already there Carter."

"All right. Then just relax and let's both get the bad guys to decide to let me go."

"Bad guys let Sam go – you mean like that?"

"Yes. I don't know their names – but I'll try and picture the ones I saw. Maybe that will help."

"Okay Colonel. Let's go."

It looked odd to both Daniel and Teal'c to watch Jack just sit there, not moving. They could see the fierce concentration on his face and the growing frustration. Obviously, nothing was happening. Oh well, thought Daniel, at least they gave it a try.

Abruptly, they saw O'Neill's expression change. His face totally relaxed – there was no tension, worry, anything. It almost looked like he was sleeping.

"Teal'c", whispered Daniel. "look, somethings happening."

"I believe you are correct. It appears so."

A sound at the door made the men realize that David and the reinforcements had arrived. Letting them in, Daniel indicated that they should be quiet. They moved to another room to try and continue to figure out where Sam could be.

"Carter, you with me?"

"Yes Sir. I feel like something is happening. Do you feel it? It's almost like an energy that I can control."

"Yes, I feel it too. I think we're doing it together. Focus on the main guy, the one who spoke with you. Can you communicate with him?"

"I'll try. Hey you, bad guy!"

"Uh Sam?"

"I don't know what else to call him and that's what he is."

"Ah, okay. Just don't anger him."

"No, if I wanted to do that I'd call him much worse. Now let me concentrate General."

"Okee, dokee, he's all yours."

"Bad Guy! Listen up. You don't want to keep me here anymore. This is a very bad idea. You will end up in big, big trouble. So, I think the best thing is for you to let me go."

"Keep trying Sam – I'm helping."

"Maybe if you threatened to zat him a few times, that might help."

"Do you think he knows about zats?"

"Definitely! I'm pretty sure he's NID or Trust."

"Hey, ass-hole!"

"Jack – what about making him mad?"

"Okay fine – hey, donkey hole! Let Colonel Carter go or you're gonna be real sorry. If you hurt her or the baby I promise I will track you down and disintegrate you. You just get your butt in to her and let her go. Make sure no one tries to stop you. You hear me?"

"Jack, someone's coming. It's him – it's Mr. Bad Guy."

"Okay lady, I think it's time for you to go."

"What do you mean? Go where?"

"I want you out of here. You're way more trouble than you're worth. The Senator can do his own dirty work from now on. Me, I just want to live happily without some crazy Air Force General after me. You tell O'Neill that I'm letting you go and I haven't hurt you. Tell him I won't touch either of you again so he doesn't need to come after me. I'll also give you information on who is behind this – just don't tell anyone where you got it or my life is over."

"Thank you! Don't worry, we won't tell and I promise the General won't come after you. Can you tell me where we are?"

"Yeah – we're at Rotman's warehouse on Peers Street – over by the river. Come on now – give me your hands." The 'bad man' unlocked the cuffs and helped her to her feet. She had grown very stiff sitting for so long and desperately needed the bathroom.

"Follow me real quietly. We can't let the others know. They're eating and watching TV in the other room. I'm gonna let you out the back door. Just head down the alley and walk about two blocks south – you'll hit a main road."

Sam turned to her kidnapper and thanked him again (although she realized he only did what he did as a result of Jack and her).

"Can you tell me who was behind this?"

"Yeah. It was Senator Blackburn. He found out about you getting younger when you traveled to some planet. He wants to know what did it and whether he can reproduce the substance using your child. Watch out. He's an evil man and won't stop at this to get what he wants."

By this time, they had reached the back door and no one had seen them. The man (she still didn't know his name) took a key from his pocket and quickly opened the door.

"There you go – get going. I'm sorry about this, it was nothing personal you know. I just needed the money."

"I think there are other, better ways to make some money but thank you. You might want to get out of here yourself. I expect the police might arrive soon." How soon he had no idea, she thought. She had already given Jack the information as to where she was. She was sure help was on the way.

She then exited the bulding and quickly made her way down the alley.

"Sam, you okay? Did it work?"

"Yes, it worked! I'm fine – I'm heading away from the building. But Jack,"

"What? What's wrong", he asked, noticing the desperation in her voice.

"I really have to pee!"

He burst out laughing, greatly relieved – both that she had gotten away and that there was nothing wrong other than the fact that she had two babies (and O'Neill's at that!) bouncing on her bladder.

Teal'c, David and Daniel all looked up, startled to hear Jack laugh out loud. He had sat totally still, concentrating completely on his connection with Sam. He had only acknowledged them when he had briefly spoken to Daniel in Ancient, giving him Sam's location.

The men now waited anxiously for news of Sam. When the phone finally rang they all jumped and looked at it – although Jack obviously knew what some of the news was already as he appeared suddenly more relaxed. David finally reached over and picked up the receiver.

"They've got her! She's okay. They've also stormed the building and found four men – no one was injured. It's all over."

"No, not ovr", the General managed. "Gnna kill Bllckrn."

"Yeah, you and me both" declared Daniel.

"Yes, I will also want to take part in that, O'Neill. We must make sure he does not harm Samantha or your children again."

Daniel looked over at Jack and noticed that the man looked exhausted. It had been quite a day for him. Hopefully, this was the beginning of a new start – maybe he and Sam could simply enjoy some time together without evil people, kidnappings, attacks, and weird psychic communication. They simply needed some peace and joy in their lives for a change.

"Jack, why don't you rest for awhile? Sam will be back soon. We'll handle everything for now. Teal'c can help you to your room."

"No, I'l wait fr Sm.."

"Okay – but I'm going to fix something to eat and drink. You need something. You look like you're going to pass out."

"Fine! Mthr Hen!"

It was almost an hour before they heard the outer door open and in rushed Sam, surprisingly looking little worse for the wear. She immediately ran up to Jack and threw her arms around him, knocking him flat on the couch.

"Hey, beautiful! You okay?" he thought/spoke to her.

"Yes, I'm fine! The police took me to a donut shop and I used their bathroom – plus I had a donut – so I'm great. How about you? You look tired. Why didn't you go to bed?"

"Cause I was waiting for you. Now, however, I am ready for bed. Coming?"

"Jack O'Neill! You're barely back to yourself and already thinking of bed! Well General, all I can say to that is it sounds like a wonderful idea. Shall we get one of the guys to help you up?"

"I guess, although I must say that takes some of the romance out of it! In fact, it's kind of creepy."

"Just don't tell them what you're thinking about."

"Ha! I'm sure they figured that out a long time ago. All they have to do is take one look at you to know where my thoughts are going."

"General! Just because of my big belly …'

"No, no, no – I didn't mean that (although I am kinda proud of that!) I meant your beautiful looks and personality!"

"Personality! Yeah, I'm sure that's what you're thinking about right now!"

He reached out slowly, still unable to move quickly, and gently touched her cheek.

"I'm thnking I luv you", he said softly, out loud. "I did come back fr you Sm. Nvr doubt it."

"I know Jack – thank you – and thank you for getting me out of this mess. Now, Daniel, Teal'c – let's get the General to bed. He's tired and so am I so I think we're going to rest" (Jack O'Neill, she thought to him – keep your mind out of the gutter – I'm trying to talk and you are distracting me – she looked over to see him grinning wickedly)

Together, the two men helped Jack to his room, which was fortunately on the main floor. As Sam went to wash up after her ordeal, and change clothes, he looked at his two friend.

"Thank you!"

"It is nothing O'Neill. That is what friends and family are for."

"You know we're always here for each other Jack!"

Jack turned to Daniel and again spoke to him in Ancient, as for now it was easier – although he knew his English was improving.

"Daniel – I need a favor. Look in my night table drawer. There is a piece of paper with a picture on it. Can you get it?"

"Sure". Daniel opened the drawer and after a moment pulled out a folded piece of paper.

"This it?"

"Yes – can you ask Vala to help you get this? I want to give it to Sam."

Daniel looked at Jack in puzzlement and then unfolded the paper. On it was the drawing of a ring. Written underneath were detailied specifications as to material, etc. Daniel looked up at Jack..

"About time General!"

"Yes O'Neill – we have been waiting a long time.", agreed Teal'c as he looked at the picture.

Jack just grinned, knowing things were in good hands. Settling back into bed he waved to his friends, thinking once again how lucky he was.

A few minutes later a clean, slightly damp Sam came into the room. Shedding her robe she climbed into bed beside him and snuggled against Jack – the Jack she had loved and who had come back to her, for her.

She knew it was still going to be a while before he was 100% back – but he was well on his way. The essence of who he was had returned and she was looking forward to some good times. Content, and surprisingly unscarred by the day's events, she rested her head on Jack's chest and sighed.

"Okay?"

"Yes, wonderful!"

"Good – then why are you just lying there?"

She raised her head and looked at him with a question in her eyes.

"Lying here? What else should I be doing?"

He waggled his eyebrows at her.

"Well, it's been a few months ….."

"You were serious? Jack! I just thought you were kidding. Are you up to this."

"No, but with your help I will be." Again he waggled those brows suggestively and grinned! "I'm sorry – I can't do too much here – but I've always had a fantasy about a certain blond Air Force officer having her evil way with me. I think now would be a great time to fulfill that fantasy."

"Well, okay – as long as I was the blond subject of those fantasies! Jack – you are incorrigible and I love you for it." She leaned over and kissed him with a non-gentle, very passionate kiss.

Yup, Jack O'Neill was back! And the rest isn't for any of us to know.

Sorry folks – I had planned more whump and adventure in this chapter and just found I couldn't do it to them again! I wanted them to have some good times already and to start and discover some of the power from the Joining. So, my apologies to any of you wanting some real whump - I think I'll save it for another time! Hope you are okay with that!