Chapter Twenty One

Smith stared outward, over the vast field of New Zealand, a swelling of pride going through him. He had served Sakar faithfully over the two millennium across the galaxy, waiting for his Lord and Master to give him the chance to do something. And here it was.

An army of Agents worthy of the Death Dealer. His army.

Heaven's network had only determined a small fraction of Sakar's forces and activities. In reality, he had been preparing for war against the Earth ever since he landed on this small dust ball. For here were two spirits who possessed the last all powerful energy force left in the Spirit System. And Sakar, who had been growing stronger with the destruction of each spirit, wanted that power.

But the transmission from Sakar made that a little more difficult than before. Without his connections to both Yggdrasil and Vandrasil, he was no longer a match for one spirit, let alone three. And with the Sunak coming ever closer to their plans for invasion, that was dangerous.

Fortunately, the Master had a backup plan in line. He would go to Neverland, and absorb the mystical energies of the world to bolster his own power. At the same time, he would deal with the Peter Pan and his little girlfriend, and anyone else who came with him.

Smith grinned. Even weakened, Sakar was still the definition of unbeatable. Nothing could stop him.

Not even Fire and Wind.

"We have searched and scanned this island at least twenty times," Sloane said. "We still haven't found that bitch."

Potter turned towards the Crystal Chamber, watching the people swarming around. "More than a hundred refugees altogether. An honorable man murdered on the altar of power. Sakar going after Keiichi's family and friends. What is the Deadly Alliance trying to do? Piss the Guardians off?"

"That's probably the plan. They bring your people into this, and everything you worked so hard to protect gets destroyed."

The Guardian of Magic was forced to concede that. It had always been evil's goal to do just that. If they could do that, then nothing could stop them. The Balance would be irrevocably destroyed.

James walked up to them, his gaze stormy. "Zephyer has been unable to acquire contact with the fleet. For all intents and purposes, he's dead to them."

"So they'll come."

"I'm afraid so, Dear."

Sloane turned towards the ocean, watching the sun set in the distance. "I hope we get a miracle, then," she said. "Otherwise, we're all in trouble."

Above Hope Island, like a god observing his world, Peter stared at the home of the Planeteers.

He had been up there for almost thirty minutes, unable to get the events that had occurred on that other Earth out of his head. Everything that had happened, everyone who had died, had died because he had been there.

No, that wasn't fair. His presence there merely had accelerated those plans. He should have been proud that he and the others managed to get those people from the camp out of there.

And yet... there it was. That feeling of guilt.

Peter had never felt guilty before in his life. In all of the years he had lived in Neverland, he had never had reason to feel that way. He never did anything to the Indians, the Lost Boys stayed together somewhat, and the pirates were justifiable, seeing as how Hook was the one who started the pseudo war between them.

But now, he knew that he was no longer the young boy who thought everything was an adventure. He was now a young man who had been given a rather large dose of reality.

And so here he hovered, deep in thought, trying to determine how he was going to be able to protect his home from a being who, even weaker, was still stronger than him, and more dangerous than anything before him.

"Peter?"

The young man turned his head to see Wendy floating next to him, looking rather concerned. "I'm okay," he said, seeing the question in her eyes. "I'm just trying to figure out what I'm going to do when we get there."

Wendy sat down next to him, knowing how he felt. She had been wondering the same thing. And, like him, she hadn't come up with anything. "Well, everybody is worried about you. You have been up here for quite a while."

"I know. I just..." Peter's eyes slid closed. "For the first time in my life, I have no idea what I'm going to do."

For a long moment, neither of them said, or did anything. They simply sat on that cloud, and looked over the island. Each of them knew that every decision they had made up to this moment, was a decision that would shape their lives forevermore.

Wendy turned to look at the young boy, and did not see the eternal youth of her childhood. The young boy to whom she gave her hidden kiss to. Instead, she saw a young man, one who was questioning himself... doubting himself. She smiled slightly, taking in his maturing features, before deciding on a move.

Peter, whose eyes were closed, was surprised when he felt a pair of lips connect with his own. His open flew open, catching sight of honey colored curls, before they slid closed again, gripping Wendy in a loose embrace.

The two of them slowly broke apart after several minutes, breathing a bit difficult. "What... what was that for?" Peter asked, looking decidedly happier than a moment before.

Wendy smiled, stroking a cheek, not answering. "Peter, what are your real feelings? What do you feel?" she asked in response.

Peter blinked, surprised at the change in conversation... before remembering, all those years ago, in Neverland, that question being asked. Back then, he didn't understand what she had meant.

Now he did.

Frowning slightly, he mulled over the question. "Honestly... friendship, loyalty, and trust. Those I've known about for years. As for my feelings for you... I don't know. I've... never felt this way before."

Wendy's smile grew softer still. "How do you feel?"

"I feel... like I'm on top of the world. Like nothing could take me down. And, when you kissed me... I felt this fluttering sensation..."

"... Well, if you want my... opinion, I think you now fully understand what love is."

Peter chuckled, holding out a hand. "Well, come on. I get the feeling your father will start worrying about you."

Wendy smirked. "When does he not?"

"Fair point."

Wheeler frowned as he stretched his senses out, trying to find his nemesis. So long as Sakar remained on Earth, he would still be a threat to anyone he came across. And Blight was still a problem. Despite several sweeps of the island, their most danger Eco Villain had managed to remain elusive. Laura was dead tired, and so was Ma-Ti. So Clash and an entire platoon of sentinels were doing a physical inspection of every person presently there.

The Fire Planeteer leaned back, rubbing his eyes. A full week of hell, with another promised for them all. There was no way his family line was getting paid enough for this.

Katie walked in, seeing the expression on his face. "Oooookay, Brother, you need to get away from that screen," she said. "Otherwise, your eyes are going to stay glued open for the rest of your life."

Wheeler turned around, glaring at his sister. "Eleven years of not seeing each other, you spend the last three days insulting me."

"Catching up for those eleven years."

"Huh."

The younger Sloane frowned for a moment. "What's really bothering you, Wheeler?" she asked.

Wheeler turned around in his seat. "Sakar's obsession with me and Linka. You would think after a thousand years, he would take a hint, and run."

"Evil never truly rests. It may be defeated, but never destroyed. It's a cancer."

"It's necessary for the balance."

"Why?" Katie sat down next to Wheeler, gaze questioning. "Why is it so important that evil live?"

Wheeler smiled slightly, ruffling his sister's hair affectionately. "Katya, I'm going to tell you something that someone once told me. 'Good is the solution for evil. Evil is the task for good.' Neither can live without the other. If Good never existed, Evil would eventually destroy everything. If Evil never existed, Good would eventually become Evil."

"So... 'Evil' has to exist, so people don't walk down that road themselves?"

"Not as simplistic as we would like it to be, but there you have it."

Katie thought about it for a few moments. "What happens if evil were to become too powerful?"

Wheeler sighed. "Then may God help us." He turned around. "Babeuoska."

Linka smiled slightly. "Your mother told me that you were still in here, Yankee, looking for Sakar."

Wheeler nodded, grinning. "I haven't found him, yet. I probably won't, either." His grin grew. "Is this your subtle way of telling me that I should get something to eat?"

"My own, little subtle way," Linka replied, returning the grin. "Dinner is ready."

The Fire Planeteer shook his head, getting up. "Then, by all means, I should get something to eat. Coming, sis?"

Katie got up. "Sure. I was getting hungry."

"Come on, runt."

Belldandy stretched her arms out, testing them. Finding no pain coming from her joints, she smiled. "Thanks, Ex. I owe you."

Ex grinned. "Next time, don't get slammed into the ground at near the speed of sound. You going to be okay?"

"Go on. I'll be fine. And besides, I'm sure others could use some help."

"Alright... stay off your feet for a few hours more." The second class Goddess made her way out of the room., a skip to her step.

Smiling slightly, Belldandy laid back, letting her eyes close for a moment. Everyone else was busy trying to locate Blight, or helping the refugees. SG-1 was still at Stargate Command, mobilizing everything they could to prepare for the coming battle with the Sunak. Archer was onboard the Enterprise, coordinating with both NORAD and Thor. Peter and Wendy were preparing for their journey, as well as enjoying a few moments to themselves. Right now, she was just waiting for...

"There you are, big sis!"

The First class Goddess smiled as Skuld bounded into the room, looking very hyper. She had every right to be, seeing as how Sakar was no longer the danger he once was. A great victory, in any case. That, and the fact that she was in no danger of dying at the moment. "I take it you were worried," she said in understatement.

"You know it!" Skuld hugged her sister fiercely, as if she would never let her go. "You could have been killed, Belldandy!"

"No more than anyone else fighting there." Belldandy winced. "Skuld, could you let go of me? I'm still sore."
"Oh... sorry!" The young Goddess backed up slightly. "I'm just glad you're okay."

"I won't do something like that again if I don't have to." Belldandy gestured for her little sister to sit down. "Skuld, I want to ask you something."

"Yeah, what?"

"Well... I was wondering, what is it that you strive to be. You never mentioned your dreams, after all."

Skuld frowned. "You know, Mom asked me the same question. I really... don't know." She looked up at her sister. "I guess... I really want to be like you, Belldandy."

Belldandy's smile faded, and she looked out the window. "You should have a better role model than me, Skuld," she said. "Especially since of the past week."

"What do you mean?"

"I lied to you, Skuld. I left you and Keiichi at home. I placed you in danger without realizing it."

Skuld frowned. That didn't sound like the Belldandy she knew. She was always strong, steady. A pillar of calmness and self determination. She always listened to both Urd and herself on numerous occasions.

This woman before her, had had a life altering experience eleven years ago. It came back to haunt her over the last week. She had witnessed her hatred for Sakar come out on the Planet Vision. And it frightened her... but it also showed that her sister could feel other emotions than happiness.

Steeling herself, Skuld looked at her sister. "I don't think I do," she replied firmly, more firmly than she thought possible, considering the circumstances. "You did what you had to do to keep us safe. You taught me so much, about how to be kind and considerate about others feelings. And you didn't go looking for him. You went with your life." She smiled. "I'm proud to have you as my big sister."

Belldandy stared at her in surprise. "Skuld..." she got out. "... thank you." Impulsively, she leaned in, hugging her sister, tears running down her cheeks. "I couldn't ask for a better sister."

Trip observed the warp core for a moment longer, before turning to Berdanz. "Keep the plasma injectors purged as much as possible," he said. "I also want a full report on the left nacelle that was hit in the fight. We can't afford to have any problem when the Sunak show up."

Berdanz nodded. "See you tomorrow, Sir. And try to get some sleep. You're no good to anyone half awake."

"Thanks for the advice, Lieutenant." The Chief Engineer clapped his subordinate on the shoulder as he passed, heading out of Engineering.

The truth of it was, he was exhausted. The last week had been hell. He barely got around three hours of sleep on any given day, and that hadn't sat well with the Doctor. It didn't sit well with T-Pol, either, but she hadn't bothered him about it.

But he knew who to turn to. With that thought, he made for his quarters to grab his sleepwear.

Ten minutes later, he was outside T-Pol's quarters, chiming for entry. "Enter," her voice wafted from inside.

The Chief Engineer stepped inside, seeing T-Pol put her candle out, and correctly assumed that he had caught her at the end of her meditation cycle. "I was hoping that you could help me out," he said. "I need a good night's sleep tonight."

T-Pol smiled slightly, gesturing to the bed. "I was waiting for you to admit that, Trip. Let me see if vulcan neural pressure can help you again. You can tell what's bothering you."

Trip nodded, grinning. T-Pol was a great friend, and he was proud that he was her friend. She trusted him enough to wait until he was ready to talk.

Sitting down on the bed, facing T-Pol with his eyes, he felt the young Vulcan's hands touch his face, working the katra points there. He could feel the tension start to leave his face. "I've been havin' the dreams again," he began.

"The ones about your sister." It wasn't a question, but a gentle statement of understanding.

"They're getting worse."

T-Pol went to work on his neck, feeling a swell of sorrow go through her. Through the bond the two of them shared, one unlike a bond between two vulcans, she could feel his fear and grief. Or was it her own she felt? "The Xindi were manipulated by someone from the future, Trip," she reminded him gently. "It could have easily been the Klingons."

"I know... but they would have never created a weapon of that magnitude."

"... A very logical point."

Trip heard the slightly teasing tone in her voice, and smiled slightly as she started working on his shoulders. She was trying to cheer him up by poking fun at her own race. It was a testament of their friendship that she was comfortable enough to do that. "We're known for that," he replied, letting out a slight groan when her hands, slightly warmer than the surrounding skin, moved to his lower back. He felt his mental stress ebb away. "Thanks," he said.

T-Pol smiled. "It's the least I can do for you. I just wish... I just wish I could do more." Her smile faded. "No one should lose their family in that matter."

Trip smiled in return. "You've done a lot, T-Pol. I know I haven't been easy to deal with." He got up. "Thanks. I guess I'll go back to my quarters, now."

T-Pol grabbed his arm, though not enough to hurt him. "Stay," she said. "Why don't you tell me more about your family? You never spoke of them... to me, anyways."

Trip's smile became a grin. "Well..."

Phlox sat at his desk, rechecking his findings. They were still the same from the last four times.

"Doctor Phlox?"

The doctor turned to see Mary and George entering Sickbay. "Ah, Mister and Mrs. Darling. Thank you for coming." He got up. "When I did a physical of your children, I also did a midi chlorian count, after Master Qui Gon showed me what to look for. I found something very interesting, and disturbing." He led them to the main screen. "For John and Michael's scans, I detected the usual antibodies from the Chicken Pox, and several different cold bacteria. Their midi chlorian count was a count of sixteen thousand."

"Equal to my own," Mary murmured. "At least they won't be envious." She frowned. "What about Wendy?"

"First, I have to ask you... has your daughter ever been sick? Ever?"

George frowned as well. "... No. I don't believe so."

"There is a good reason for that." Phlox brought Wendy's results up. "Your daughter is literally saturated with the creatures. They are infused throughout her being. I couldn't even get a count."

"So... what does that mean?"

"It means that Wendy is quite capable of doing... anything. Anything from stopping the fusion of the stars, to revitalizing a person's entire genetic structure."
Mary stared at him in shock. "Are you saying... that my daughter has infinite power?" she asked.

Phlox nodded. "I am afraid so."

The Jedi sat down on the bio bed, trying to absorb this latest development. She and Yoda were capable of lifting star fighters up in a crunch. She had no doubt in her mind that Anakin, given proper training, would be able to move small cruisers.

Her daughter, it seemed, would be able to move planets if she chose to. And she was already accessing that power. The memory of the one who she once deemed friend, but soon showed himself to be her enemy flashed through her mind. She was afraid that she would soon watch her own flesh and blood follow a similar path.

As if sensing her dilemma, Phlox smiled. "I wouldn't worry about it too much, Mrs. darling," he said. "Wendy has had a very strict upbringing by her aunt, and you have shown her nothing but love and trust. Those are your greatest weapons against the darkness. She'll be fine."

Mary looked at him. "It's just... I had a friend once who was once like Wendy. He couldn't control his anger, and... he became the most powerful Sith Lord in recent history... well, recent for me, that is."

Phlox nodded. "I can understand your concern... Mary, but the person in question, as well as how they were raised, are vital tools as to shape their personality. Your daughter is strong of will and mind, but kind, gentle, and has never wanted for anything except adventure, and the chance to grow into her own person." He observed them for a moment. "What did he do?"

George looked at him. "He almost destroyed this world."

"Ah."

Mary got up, her gaze on her daughter's stats. "I hope," she said, her worry in full force, "that you are right, Doctor. Because if you're not, then we will all be in trouble."

Archer shut off his Captain's Log, petting Porthos behind his ears as he gave him some cheese. If the next week was like this one, it may be the last moment of calm he would have.

Sakar was no longer on the planet. Silik was in their brig, stewing. More reinforcements were coming. For all accounts, they had the situation well in hand.

But... there were still problems. Doctor Blight was still unaccounted for. The Sunak were still posed to attack within the week. And the Xindi were on the verge of attacking his Earth. By all accounts, he should be on his way home. Except... Alania had said she would send word to Starfleet about the situation, and send a ship to Xindi space to take out the weapon. In short, their bases were being covered.

So why did he feel so uneasy?

Urd glared at Planet Vision as it began its tenth scan of Hope Island, trying to locate Doctor Blight. The two Heart Planeteers had finally turned in for the night, too exhausted mentally to continue. Gaia was doing a visual search of the island alongside Zarm and Clash.

Everyone that could look for her was doing just that. Peorth was even trying to obtain permission to use Yggdrasil's primary sensor grid to find her. Which left her and Ex trying to find her the old fashioned way.

"Tenth scan negative," Ex reported. "Initiating scan of quadrant 56... again."

"Search for the villain, Take Eleven." Urd sighed. "Oh, what's the use? We're not going to find her with this. The Asgard have swept this entire place from head to toe, and they didn't find anything." She sank down, rubbing her eyes. "Six hours of this, and for what? Not a damn thing. She's good."

Ex looked at her. "We'll find her. Maybe not immediately, but we'll find her." She sighed, rubbing her neck fretfully. "I just hope we find her soon. Otherwise, we won't be able to find out what she knows."

Urd frowned. "Maybe that isn't necessary... we can assume that she knows a great deal." Her frown suddenly cleared. "Hold on... that's it."

"What?"

"Maybe we can force her hand. Make her force her hand." She turned. "I need Skuld."

Now Ex understood.

Silik observed the walls of his cell onboard Enterprise, fingering the small device he had acquired during his time roaming the ship. He had managed to enter the sealed quarters of the time traveler who plagued Archer so, acquiring the means of his freedom.

And now, he began his bid.

----

Archer looked up from his computer terminal as the lights flickered off for a moment, before coming back on. "Archer to Engineering."

"Sorry, Sir," Hess replied apologetically. "We had a power fluctuation in the plasma network. Everything was disrupted for about a minute. We can't seem to determine the source."

"Let me know when you do." Archer signed off, sighing.

"Detention block to Captain Archer!"

"Go ahead."

"Silik has escaped, Sir. He vanished into the Jefferies tubes before we could stop him!"

"Seal off all hatchways! Post teams at every access point! I'm on my way down!" He was out the door in an instant. "Malcolm, start scanning the ship! We need to find him!"
"Aye, sir." Malcolm quickly started running hi scan, but blinked. "Sir, the entire grid is offline!"
The Captain quickly put the pieces together. "Communications?"
Hoshi shook her head. "No good. All I'm getting is static."

Archer sat down in his seat. Silik had been preparing for this very thing. All Archer wanted to know was why. Why didn't he escape before?

Kwame sat crossed legged on his bed, watching Gi as she went through her relaxation exercises, amazed at how gracefully her body moved. His own exercises, which he used to wake up, were nowhere near as graceful.

The young Thai woman finally stood up fully, a serene smile on her face. She caught him watching her, and her smile took a more questioning feel. "Why are you staring at me?" she asked.

Kwame blushed. "I was watching you stretch," he replied. "You move like a cat."

Gi giggled a bit at this, blushing. "Thank you, Kwame. I've never been compared to a cat, before." She quickly sat down next to him, moving automatically so that he could enfold her in his arms. "So, why?"

"Hmm?"
"Why me? Besides convenience, I mean?"

Kwame looked at her. "Gi, convenience had nothing to do with it. As for why... well, you are strong, intelligent, beautiful, and full of joy. You kept my spirits up when I was down, and you let me see when you were hurt." He grinned. You also have a cute butt."

Gi laughed, kissing him. "You really sweet, you know that?"

"So I have been told... once... at this moment, in fact." Kwame maneuvered them both so that they were lying down, facing each other. "So, what do you think is going to happen? After we save the day again?"
Gi thought about it for a moment, trailing a hand over his cheek. "Well, I assume that Wheeler and Linka will become Guardians, and go on adventures that would these ones to shame. Ma-Ti and Laura will go find a quiet place to settle down, or stay here, where it is quiet. You and I will have this huge fight about where we'll live, either near my family, or yours, before deciding it peacefully. We'll most likely have ten kids to worry about."

"Ten kids?" Kwame murmured, leaning in to start kissing her neck. "Quite a large number..."
"Very large." Gi smiled in pleasure when he moved part of her nightgown down her body, exposing a breast. "We'd better get started, then..."

John had been wandering around Hope Island for several hours, attempting to find Tiger Lily. Which was, unto itself, was a difficult task. The Princess was an adept hunter, who knew how to hide. It wouldn't surprise him if she were to jump out and...

His musings were cut short when he was suddenly grabbed by the back of his shirt, and pulled into a nearby bush. "Hello," he managed to get out.

Tiger Lily giggled, letting him turn around. "Do you have any idea how long I was hiding in that bush, watching you walk by?" she asked, eyes twinkling. "I was about ready to leap out and scream... what is that phrase you people use?"

"Bloody murder?"

"That's it."

John shook his head, straightening his glasses out. "Well, I for one, am forever glad that you did not. The last thing we need is to incite a panic."

"Fair point."

The young man stood up, offering his friend a hand. "Well, you certainly have been keeping yourself at your absolute best."

Tiger Lily nodded as they started walking. "I see no reason why I should not. We are in a situation that is unlike any before it. Anyone who can fight shall be needed to do so."

"So you are planning to go through with your... going home?"

"Of course I am. I will not allow my people to die. Not if I can do anything about it."

John nodded, frowning in thought for a moment. "Then I am going with you," he said.

Tiger Lily stopped, turning to him in shock. "What?"

"I am going with you and Peter tomorrow."

"But... John... you have very little experience with sword fighting! There are still dangers there that even Peter and myself are unaware of in Neverland!" She looked at him. "Why are you willing to risk your life?"

John fidgeted. "Because... I care about you, Princess." He blushed slightly. "I also want to get away from the Lost Boys. They heard about my... first kiss."

That did it. Tiger Lily cracked up, clutching her sides with hilarity. "They found out? From who?"

John started chuckling. "From Michael," he replied, finally giving in to his own hilarity. "He blew it completely out of proportion! They have been pestering me about it for the last several years!"

"The tribe had been asking me questions about that, as well! The females in particular!"
John shook his head, grinning. "Would you like to tell them that we were both only ten?" he asked.

"Better to let them wonder. They will have more fun." The princess smiled, hugging him. "Thank you, John. I really needed that."

John blushed, returning the hug. "Anytime." He turned around, looking toward the huts. "But now, I suggest that we get back to the huts. Otherwise, my aunt will have a nervous breakdown."

"An excellent idea."

Janet finished her analysis of the Agent corpse, shaking her head. She wasn't too happy about what she found out, that was for sure. Finishing with her notes, she leaned back, mentally preparing herself for the next part of her job.

Three minutes later, she was sitting in a chair adjacent to Hammond, watching as he went through her report. "Is this... even possible?" he asked.

"I'm afraid so, Sir. The Guardians have experimented in genetic engineering, but only to augment weak body organs due to birth defects, or to improve hand-eye coordination. To physically augment every single aspect of a human being, or any other type of lifeform, would be a foolish idea, not to mention immoral."

"And yet, Sakar, or at least this Smith character, is capable of doing just that."

"Yes, Sir." Now came the hard part. "I think it may have been done by an... old acquaintance of mine."

Hammond eyed her shrewdly. "This wouldn't happen to be the same 'acquaintance' you ran into on Chulak, now would it?"

"It is."

The general nodded once, setting the report down. "I don't need to remind you that we're only a week away from the invasion of the Sunak," he said. "I can't have my people keeping information from me that could help us in this fight."

Janet returned his gaze. "General, I have nothing that can help us win this battle," she replied. "Everything I have kept from you is strictly personal, and none of yours, or anyone else's business. Yes, I am a doctor. I am still mortal. And I am a major of the United States Air Force. Everything else is window dressing."

Well, when she put it that way... "Go home. Spend some time with your daughter. It'll probably be the last time you'll get for a long time."

"Thank you, Sir." Janet got up, and made for the door.

"Janet..." Hammond waited until she had turned around. "Senator Kimsi is planning on discussing a possible transfer for you to Washington."

"Tell Kimsi that if he tries, I will hand in my resignation immediately."

"I had a feeling you'd say that. I'll pass the message along."

Janet nodded. "Thanks, General."

----

Cassie finished up her math homework, double checking her answers. Satisfied, she declared her homework finished. Quickly getting up, she started down the stairs to the kitchen.

She had just gotten a cup of juice when the door opened, admitting her foster mother. "Hey, Cassie."

"Hi, Mom. And yes, I did finish my homework," Cassie added, smiling. "I thought Doctor Jackson was coming over, too."

"He'll be here. He's just finishing up some research."

"Which means he's trying to find out about you."

"Guilty as charged. He'll be here in about six minutes."

Cassie's smile became slightly mischievous. "He likes you, you know," she commented casually, sipping her drink.

Janet turned to her. "Of course he does," she replied, misunderstanding. "We're friends and colleagues."

"I meant more than that, Mom, and you know it." The young girl took great delight in watching her mother blush. "And you like him, too."

Janet chuckled, rubbing her kid's head affectionately. "What'd I ever do without you?" she asked.

"Work yourself to exhaustion," Cassie replied. "Mom, do you think... we'll win?"

It took a moment for Janet to answer, but when she did, it was with true conviction. "Beyond any shadow of a doubt." She grinned. "Now, if you don't mind, I'm going to get dinner ready, okay?"

Cassie nodded, smiling. "Sure." She left the kitchen, making her way to the living room. If there was one thing she liked, it was her mom's cooking.

She had barely settled herself on the couch, and was reaching for the remote control, when the doorbell rang. Smiling, she went over to the door, opening it. "Hi, Doctor Jackson."

Daniel returned the smile, giving the girl a big hug. "I'm not early, am I?" he asked.

"You are, but that's good." She pulled him in. "Come on. You can tell me about that necklace you gave Mom at her birthday." Anything to gauge how close she was to the truth.

Daniel grinned. "Well..."

"It will take how long?" Sakar asked, glaring at the Jaffa before him.

The Jaffa was a credit to his race. He stared Sakar straight in the eye as he replied, "The chaapa'ai on the other side has been buffeted by various forces throughout its five millennium rest. So, it will take a week for the address commands to reach the other DHD."

The Death Dealer stormed away, infuriated. A week was all that remained of the Sunak deadline. When they discovered that he was no longer on Earth, they would continuwe their hunt of him, and it would be too late.

But if they attacked, then he would lose his chance of killing Gaia and Zarm, and absorbing their powers. Every plan he had ever made, every strategy he had created, were on the verge of falling apart. He needed to find a way to tip the scales in his favor.

Fortunately, he had such a plan to use.

When he had learned of Neverland, and that a young woman had be allowed to go there, he had begun keeping an eye on the Darling family, learning everything he could of them. His operatives, one who was onboard the Enterprise, masquerading as a member of the crew, had begun watching Commander Tucker and Subcommander T-Pol, watching as their friendship began to grow into something more.

The Xindi threat gave them the opening they were hoping for.

Peter, hovering with Tiger Lily at the Darling window, had given them another such opportunity. The Agent discovered what she needed to enter Neverland, and used her entry to send the whole lot of them into the future. At the same time, the Agent onboard the starship used her unique abilities to open a portal between the two realms, removing the only obstacle the Xindi would have had to worry about.

Afterwards, though, everything started going wrong. The Force, sensing the change in Existence, had resurrected Qui Gon Jinn. His return, as well as Lily Potter's return to the fold, had thrown quite few crimps in his plans. James Potter had also returned, and Janet Fraiser revealing herself to be a Trainee had added even more problems to the equation.

And finally, the battle at Nekomi, where he relearned what it meant to feel pain. And his main source of power, the energy lines connecting him to Yggdrasil, was cut off from him forever.

Which now meant he would have to go to Neverland, and absorb the mystical energies that had created it. It would destroy the world in question, but it was a small price to pay to reclaim that which was rightfully his.

Then, all would fall before him.

Zephyer cursed in Telazian, leaning back in his seat. "I am unable to reach the fleet," he said. "My communication array is not powerful enough to reach them."

Bra-tac nodded, not surprised. "You would have to be closer to them for the signal to translate," he inquired.

"Unfortunately." The pilot turned around. "I will need to speak to Captain Archer about taking me to the fleet, so I can make my report in person."

The Jaffa Master nodded, sitting down. He knew all about the frustrations of trying to coordinate with his fellow warriors, or even warn them of traps. "Then I shall join you on this endeavor."

"You? Commander Karken would never listen to a Jaffa warrior."

"Ah, but a Jaffa warrior and one of his own officers, telling him the same thing? He will have no choice but to agree with us?"

Karken turned to him. "A little optimistic, do you not think?" he asked. "He may not believe either of us."

"It is a chance we will have to take. Any chance that we get to stop this invasion, we must take it."

"... You raise an excellent point."
Bra-tac nodded, standing back up. "I shall make the arrangements. Perhaps you should keep trying to contact them. We may become fortunate."

Zephyer nodded, reactivating the communication grid. "Zephyer to Crusher. Commander Karken, please come in..."

Samantha sat back in her seat, rubbing her eyes fretfully. Today was just one emergency too many for her.

Jacob looked at her for a moment longer in silence, fork hovering over his dinner. "Tired, kid?" he asked.

"Like you wouldn't believe," Sam muttered. "I really need to find another way to earn my paycheck."

"Well, look at it this way. At least you're still alive to complain about it, despite the various situations you've found yourself in."

"... Good point, Dad."

The retired General observed his only child for a moment more. "Tomorrow, what exactly does Hammond want you to do?"

"He wants to start research the Naquadah long term effects if we go ahead with making it a weapon." Sam took a drink of water, rubbing her neck fretfully. "Afterwards, Colonel O'Neill and myself will be reporting to Hope Island, and coordinate with military leaders from across the planet."

"Then you need some sleep," Jacob stated. "So go to bed."

"I can't Dad. I have to finish the calculations for that Supergate in orbit, and find a way to attach it to our computer systems..."

"The Potters can take care of that. They don't need to worry about losing sleep as much as you do. Now, as your father, I am telling you to go to sleep. Okay?" He saw the argument already forming in her eyes. "Don't make me get Jack in here," he added.

That shut her up real fast. "One of these days, you're going to want me to like you when you finally retire from diplomatic work," she said instead, weary humor shining through.

"Yeah, later. For now, bed."

"Yes, Sir." The Air Force captain got up, leaving the Mess Hall. Jacob finished his meal, and made his way out as well. He was going to find a quiet place to collapse for a few hours before he spoke to the Tok'ra High Command. Sel'mac had a great deal to report.

They'd both need their shut eye for that. Otherwise, the Council will probably decide to face off against the Goa'uld and their allies alone.

And in this instance, that would be fatal.

Galaxia stood, almost rigid, as she watched the Goa'uld fleet slowly consolidate around the Supergate at their command. She was alone, as her Sailor Animates were busy cleaning up her chambers. Soon, though, the System Lords would all converge on her, demanding reports upon reports.

The Golden Senshi hated all of them. Only true immortals like herself and Sakar deserved to be called rulers of the galaxy, not parasitic creatures that had to use alien technology to prolong their life spans.

But they had their uses. Unlike herself and the Death Dealer, they had fleets and planets that they could use. Their Jaffa were among the most feared warriors in the universe, and most would follow their god's every order without complaint. In short, they were the perfect expendable proxies in this battle.

The device coming through the Gate, on the other hand, was indispensable.

Galaxia grinned evilly. The Xindi were geniuses in when building weapons and propulsion. They were capable of utilizing transwarp for short periods of time, which allowed them to reach areas faster then conventional ships, and their weapons were capable of destroying everything from insects to entire planets.

The massive sphere that came out of the wormhole, about three quarters the size of the Death Star, fell into the latter category.

Hearing sounds coming down the hall, she steeled herself, and turned around as the System Lords entered the area.

Morning came, none too quickly for some, too quickly for others.

Mary and George hugged their children, both fighting tears from entering their eyes. To see them, heading off to the world that they had been to once before. "John, I want you to keep an eye on your sister," George said sternly.

John smiled. "Knowing Wendy as I do, she will be keeping an eye on me, instead of the other way around," he replied.

"Good point." The elder Darling turned to his daughter. ""You never were comfortable with the Way Things Were. So, all I can say is, be careful."

"I'll be as careful as the three legged mouse, because that's how I feel. And, watch after yourselves, Father." Wendy sighed. "Sakar's forces are still out there, and so is Blight. They could attack at any time." She turned to Wheeler. "I wish you luck, warrior."

Wheeler grinned, clapping her on the shoulder. "I plan on it. And you two save Neverland. There's still a lot of children out there who will want to read your story."

"Will do."

George turned to Peter. "I want you... to protect my daughter, young man. And bring her back."

Peter nodded, having had the same thought. "I will, Sir," he said firmly. "You can count on it." He held out his hand.

George clasped it firmly, sealing their pact. It was a pact that he knew Peter would hold to. "And, I hope you find something about your family there."

The young man nodded, breaking the grip. He pulled out a small bag of pixie dust which he had at all times, and sprinkled John and Tiger Lily with it. "Let's go," he said, levitating.

Wendy turned to her family. "I'll be back, Mother."

Qui Gon walked up. "Remember what you've learned. It will aide you in this battle."

"I will. I promise." She turned around, and took off, her brother and Tiger Lily following suit. All four of them shot off like bullets, disappearing into the horizon.

Wheeler turned around, eyeing them all for a moment. "Come on, guys," he said. "We have work to do."

Slowly, everyone followed him.

From a secret area of Hope Island, Blight watched as the Eternal Youth and his friends left the area, grinning to herself. She had been waiting for this moment to make her move.

Still grinning, she pressed one button. It sent a signal directly to the Agent forces near Florida coastline.

They are gone. Prepare for the final phase.

MAL sent the message directly to Smith's personal communicator. "Shall I send the virus, Doctor?" he asked.

Blight grinned. "Go right ahead, MAL baby," she replied. "Yggdrasil can't be allowed to interfere now." Her grin distorted the scarred tissue on her face. "Time to break Earth Mama and Lilith Sloane once and for all. Send the other signal."

Revenge would be hers, in one week.

And here is Chapter Twenty One. Chapter Twenty Two will begin Week Two of this story, where the majority of the Eco-Villains and Sakar's minion's begin to tighten the noose. There will be guest appearances from my other story for this one, as well as another appearance from the Dark Guardian, and another character. Peter, Wendy, Tiger Lily, and John will be appearing in the next installment of Yu-Gi-Oh: Redemption, and Peter's family heritage will begin to reveal itself to them. Please review.