Ch 21
The Deadalus was cruising through hyperspace with the Travalers ship in toe. Dr. Elizabeth Weir was on a subspace call with Admiral Larrin Lebria of the Travalers. The rest of the Asuran people were helping out around the Deadalus and learning the different systems of the ship. Colonel Steven Caldwell was entertaining the delegation from the Pegasus Coalition with a private dinner in a conference room.
"Colonel how long have you been in command of the Deadalus," Dimas of Riva asked after taking a drink from his cup.
"Going on five years Ambassador," Steven said after wipping his mouth off with his napkin.
"And how long have you been a military man," Shiana of Santhal asked as she set down her fork.
"Almost twenty five years," Steven said before taking a drink of his coffee.
"Yet you have only been in command of this ship for five years," Shiana said as she folded her hands in front of her.
"That's because the Deadalus has only been around going on five years. Im the only commander she has had so far," Steven said as set his cup down and leaned back in his chair.
"This is very tastey what do you call it," Kelore of Latira asked as he picked up his pork chop with his fork.
"It is called a pork chop. It come from an animal called a pig. Its a domesticated form of an animal called a boar. Uh excuse me a moment," Steven said before tapping his ear piece, "Go ahead."
"Sir we just left the Milky Way we should be at our destination in just under four hours," Lieutenant Colonel Martin Marks said over the radio.
"Understood. Relay message to Dr. Weir. She is on a call with Admiral Lebria," Steven said as the Coalition delegation looked at him.
"Yes sir," Marks replied.
"What is going on Colonel," Dimas asked.
"We are a little under four hours from our destination," Steven said.
"And what exactly is our destination," Shiana asked as she leaned forward resting her arms on the tabel.
"The Lantean Warship Tria," Steven said. They looked at him baffled.
At the United States Air Force Academy, Major General Michael Kerrigan was sitting in his office going over some paperwork and enjoying a cup of coffee. Looking out the window of his office at the young cadets Kerrigan remembered why he enjoyed his job as Commandant of Cadets. Breaking the peaceful moment the phone on his desk beeped signalling his secritary was calling.
Kerrigan picked up the phone and spoke, "Yes Lieutenant?"
"Sorry to disturb you sir, but there is a Lieutenant General O'Neill here to see you," Kerrigan's secritary said.
"Send the General in," Kerrigan said before hanging up the phone and straighting up his desk. He stood just before the door to his office opened and the smiling face of Jack O'Neill walked in clad in his Class A Uniform, "Jack how are you?"
"Kinda good actually. You," Jack asked.
"About the same. Please sit," Kerrigan said as he sat back down at his desk.
"That's alright I wont be long," Jack said as he stuffed his hands in his pants pockets.
"So to what do I owe the pleasure," Kerrigan asked.
"Well I thought I'd stop by and see myself if he's around," Jack said.
"You know for being your clone that boy acts nothing like you," Kerrigan said with a laugh.
"Yeah well I always told myself that if I got the chance to do it over again I'd try harder," Jack said after blowing out a short breath.
"He certainly is living up to that. He's nearly at the top of his class," Kerrigan said before taking a sip of his coffie.
"So I take it he'll most likely be in the library," Jack asked.
"If he isn't there try the science lab or the training course," Kerrigan said.
"Thanks for the intel Kerrigan," Jack said as he left Kerrigan's Office.
Starting his search in the library Jack couldn't find the person he was looking for. Moving on to the science lab, the person Jack sought was still no where to be found. Stopping to ask a few cadets where the one he sought might be Jack only got pasty faced blank stares. Making his way to the finish line of the training course Jack was about to give up when he saw the person of search jogging towards the finish line. A young man in his late teens, early twenties. Brown hair cropped in a crew cut and a look of life long determination. Wearing the standard issue physical training sweats that looked soaked to the bone.
"General," The young man acknowledged as he stopped to catch his breath, "I didn't expect to see you."
"What's the matter Jacob? I can't stop by and wish you the best on our birthday," Jack asked, "Come on you should walk after a run to cool down."
"Thank you. Happy birthday sir," Jacob said as he and Jacked walked toward the dorms, "How are Sam, Teal'c and Daniel?"
"They are good. Sam and Teal'c are off world right now. Daniel has a new girlfriend," Jack said as he made sure no one was listening.
"Oh really," Jacob said with interest.
"Yup," Jack said.
"Another Goa'uld host," Jacob asked with a laugh. Jack noded, "How many is that now?"
"Three I think," Jack said as he kept checking to see no one was listening.
"No four," Jacob said. Jack looked at him with a puzzeled expression, "Hathor remember."
"Oh yes bad memory," Jack said as he felt his stomach.
"So brings you out here besides our birthday," Jacob asked.
"Your first assignment," Jack said.
"Oh let me guess being your secretary," Jacob predicted.
"Oh no. I have much better ideas then that," Jack said with a smile. They both broke into laughter.
In the void between galaxies the Deadalus, Tria and a Travalers ships sat facing one another. The Asuran Black and Blue teams were overseeing the hyperdrive transfer. They would disconect the old hyperdrive have it beamed to the cargo hold of the Deadalus. Then beam the new hyperdrive into its place and conect it. Red team was using Puddle Jumpers, found in hanger bay five of the Tria, to ferry supplies and the Pegasus Coalition delegation over from the Deadalus. The Asuran Brown, Gold, Pink and White teams split into pairs and searched the ship. The Grey team was in the power room installing the new ZPM. Elizabeth, Steven, Lia, Ava and the Green team were on the bridge. Elizabeth, Lia, Ava and Steven were talking as the Green team went about checking the systems at the different consoles. Mear was checking life support and enviormental systems. Franc was checking the communications, shields and weapons. Fred was checking a multitude of systems. Fran and Ava were running a few searches for Elizabeth.
"This is impresive," Steven said as he looked around the bridge.
"You've seen Aurora-class ships before Colonel," Lia said.
"Never from the inside," Steven said as he walked over to the Captain's Chair, "May I?"
"Certainly Steven," Elizabeth said. Steven sat down in the chair and got comfurtable.
"Not bad," Steven said as he relaxed into the seat.
"Ma'am," Commander Franc Green said as he turned to look at Elizabeth.
"Yes Commander," Elizabeth said.
"Removal of the old hyperdrive is complete," Franc said.
"Proceed with installation on the new hyperdrive," Elizabeth said. Franc nodded and turned back to the console he was sitting at.
"I have to admit the Ancients really did know how to blend function, comfort and style uniquely well," Steven said as he got up from the command chair.
"When you retire you could come command a ship for me," Elizabeth said, "We could always use ship commanders that have experience fighting the Wraith."
"Excuse me Dr. Weir," Ava said as she walked over to the group.
"Yes Ava," Elizabeth said as she looked at Ava with a smile.
"We've located Captain Helia's quarters as you asked ma'am," Ava said with her hands folded behind her.
"Thank you Ava. Now have Fran show you how to run diagnostics on the different systems," Elizabeth said.
"Yes ma'am," Ava said before returning to the console Fran was working at.
"Lia you have command till I return," Elizabeth said before turning to face Steven, "Care for a tour Steven."
"Thank you," Steven said as he and Elizabeth left the bridge.
On New Athos, Halling, Jinto and Kenny, Todd's second in command, were enjoying a private midday meal in Halling's tent. Halling wore a lose fitting tan sirt, brown leather pants and a pair of black leather Wraith boots bound with metal clasps. A Wraith Stun Pistol rested in a holster on his right thigh. Jinto wore a sleaveless tan top, lose fitting brown leather top and Wraith boots. Jinto was nearly as tall as his fater with the same rugged looks. Kenny wore no shirt but a long black leather over coat, black leather pants. A Wraith Stun Pistol sat in a holster around his waist.
"Thank you for the gifts you gave my people," Halling said before taking a sip from his bowl of Tuttle Root Soup.
"Thank you for sharing your crop," Kenny said as he set his bowl down.
"Think nothing of it Commander. Your men have been a huge help not only in training of my men but also in making sure the work in the fields gets done," Halling said as he set his own bowl down. A loud scream echoed throughout the whole settlement. Halling and Kenny stood each with a hand on their stunners.
"What was that," Jinto said as he set his bowl down and picked up a Wraith Stun Rifle. Halling walked over and opened the flap on the tent.
"Someone help," A woman screamed off in the distance. The three of them raced out into the settlement.
"What's wrong? What's going on," Halling yelled as he looked around.
"Halling," Balera said as she rushed up to him. Balera had long brown hair that came down to the middle of her back. Her tight brown leather clothing was torn in a few places and she had a shallow cut on her shoulder.
"Balera what has happened," Halling said as he looked her over.
"I was walking in the woods with some of the children and a pale green man with sharp pointed teeth jump out at us from a bush. The children ran back here as I wrestled with the man. He tore at my clothing like he was trying to eat me," Balera said as Halling examined the cuts on her body.
"Did he wear the armor of my men," Kenny asked as he continued to look around with his stunner held at the ready.
"Yes. Yes he did," Balera said as she looked at Kenny.
"Is there something you need to tell me Commander," Halling asked as he looked at Kenny fiercely.
"If you know how to get ahold of the humans of Atlantis it would be wise to do so," Kenny said as he pulled a steange device from the pocket of his coat.
"Why," Halling asked as he stopped examing Balera and approached a lone tree in the center of the Athosian settlement.
"Because we will need thier help if my fears are confirmed," Kenny said as he looked at the device in his hand. What little color that was in his pale face drained making him look a shade shy of pasty white, "We have a seriouse problem. Some of my men are ill. Those that are not will do what we can but we need help from Atlantis."
"Can I trust you with the lives of my people," Halling said as he raised his empty hand.
"Yes," Kenny said as he put the strange device back in his pocket and removed his over coat. Strapped to the inside of the coat were two tantos bound in black leather. Kenny gripped one in each hand.
Halling placed his hand on the tree and it turned into a grey cylinder. He tapped the side of the cylinder and two squar sections slid out. Halling opened one and affixed a ear piece to his ear. After pocketing the first box he looked to Jinto.
"Rally the men and open the Satedan Vault," Halling said. Jinto nodded and took off to the closest tent. Halling turned to Kenny and they nodded at one another. Halling pressed four buttons on the second squar box. In the distance the stargate could be herd dialing.
In the control tower of Atlantis Dr. Radek Zalenka and Senior Gate Technician Chuck Campbell were going over diagnostic reports. Chief Master Sergeant Walter Harriman was talking with First Sergeant Sylvester Syler. Richard Woolsey was in his office talking with Colonel John Sheppard and Dr. Rodney McKay. Dr. Jenniffer Keller was giving a briefing in the conference room to members of the medical staff. Major Evan Lorne, Captain Laura Cadman, Captain Adien Ford and Dr. Miko Kusanagi were in the gate room prepairing to go back to the Yonaguni site with a team of scientist. The gate began to dial in.
"Unscheduled off world activation," Chuck said over the city wide announcement system, "Raising gate shield."
"I thought all off world team were reporting to the Alpha Site before gating back," John said as he Woolsey and McKay rushed into the control room. Evan, Laura and Adien took up positions with their P90's trained on the gate as the rest of their team scattered. Miko took up behind Laura with a pistol in hand. The event horizon formed behind the shield.
"They are," Woolsey said before looking at Chuck, "Do we have an IDC?"
Chuck looked at his computer then typed something and looked bewilldered.
"What is it Chuck," John asked as he grew concerned.
"Its the Athosian IDC sirs," Chuck said as he looked at them.
"Colonel Sheppard," A man's voice said over the radio.
"That's Halling," Rodney said as he saw Woolsey's curious look. Evan and his team stood down and listened to the conversation.
"Halling. How's everything going," John said after he tapped his ear piece.
"I am affraid we are in need of your assistance," Halling said. Sheppard couldn't identify the emotion in Halling's voice.
"What's going on? Is everything ok," John asked before whispering to Chuck, "Get Teyla, Kanaan, Ronon and Todd up here now."
"The one you call Kenny said we would need your help in dealing with men of his. One attacked and tried to bite one of my people," Halling said with a shaky voice. John and Rodney both went white as they looked at one another. They remembered the last time something like this happened. To the crew of the last Hive ship Todd used Keller's Gene Therapy on. Down in the gate room Evan ordered his team to retrive as much gear as they could carry and bring it back to the gate room. Laura and Adien ran from the gate room to the armory.
"One second Halling," John said before tapping his ear piece and looking to Woolsey, "I know you have a lot of questions but. . ."
Woolsey held up his hand stopping John mid sentance and the spoke, "Later Colonel. Take whoever and whatever you need." Teyla, Kanna, Ronon and Todd came running up the steps into the control room.
"What is it John," Teyla asked.
"Where is Torren," John asked.
"Amelia is watching him," Ronon said.
"Arkan is with them," Kanaan said.
"There is a problem on New Athos," John said. Fear flashed through the eyes of Teyla and Kanan. Todd had a look of bewilderment on his face. Ronon's face had the cold impression of steel as always. Jennifer and Carson joined them after hearing the conversation. Teyla and Kanaan looked to Woolsey as if they were going to ask a question.
"You don't need to ask," Woolsey said as he looked at them befor tapping his ear piece, "Halling this is Richard Woolsey. Commander of Atlantis."
"Are you sending help," Halling asked with anticipation in his voice.
"Yes. They will be there shortly," Woolsey said. John took his cue and headed down the main stairs to the gate room. Ronon, Teyla, Kanaan, Rodney, Jennifer, Carson and Todd flanked him as the gate shut down. Woolsey looked at Chuck, "Dial New Athos."
"Carson I need you and two medics," John said as the made it to the gate room. Adien and Laura were each pushing a kart. One was full of field vests. The other pilled with P90s, M249s, M4s, SPAS 12s and enough ammo for a small army. Solen, Sora and twenty marines ready followed after them and began suiting up.
"Already on it. Jennifer is gonna prep the infirmary encase we have to bring back any wounded," Carson said as he threw on a field vest. Two fully loaded combat medics came up behind the marines.
"Rodney, Miko neither of you need to come," John said as he clipped his sidearm holster to his leg. Carson clipped a P90 to his vest as he talked with his medics.
"You want me to stay? Shoot me," Rodney said as he picked up a M249 after attaching a box of ammo. Everyone looked at Rodney with a shocked expression.
"I have many friends among the Athosians, Colonel. I will go," Miko said as she picked up a P90 and loaded a clip. Kanaan picked up two loaded P90's after clipping on a vest. Teyla picked up a P90 after pulling on a vest. Todd picked up a P90 and looked at it with a puzzled expression. Ronon grabed the P90 from Tood's hands and showed him how to load in a clip.
"Here," Ronon said as he handed it back.
"Thank you," Todd said as he took the P90.
"Be safe," Jennifer said before she kissed Rodney and turned to go to the infirmary.
"Ronon," John said as he picked up his P90. The event horizon formed behind the still raised gate shield, "You, Solen, Sora and the marines will go in on foot. Make contact with Kenny and Halling and help put down anything that attacks you. Carson, Rodney and the medics will fallow after you. Take care of any wounded. If you need to bring any back have Halling dial the gate. Lorne, Cadman and Dr. Kusanagi you'll take Jumper Two. Ford, Todd and I will take Jumper One. We'll make our way up to the Hive to assess the situation in the ships. Once you clear the settlement radio us. Lorne and Kusanagi will come scoop you up in the jumpers. Everyone understand their assignments," Everyone noded, "Good. Let's move out," John, Adien, Todd, Evan, Miko and Laura made there way up through the control room to the Jumper Bay. John stopped and looked at Woolsey as the others continued on, "Woolsey I need you to put in a call to the Deadalus and ask for assistance. They should only be less then a day out."
"Understood Colonel. Good luck," Woolsey said as John turned to the stairs and headed back up to the jumper bay. John joined Todd and Adien in Jumper One. Evan and Laura were in Jumper Two. John lowered Jumper One into the gate room just as the medics walked through the event horizon. John counted to ten then accelerated the jumper through the gate. Jumper Two followed close behind.
In the void between galaxies, the Deadalus, Tria and Travalers ship were facing each other.
In the Captain's Quarters aboad the Tria, Elizabeth and Steven were looking around. It was a spacious room with a full size bed, couch, large desk with a chair, small closet and a few cubby holes with a few books and articals of clothing in them. The bed sat with the head against the left wall. It was elegant but useful. Blue and gold silk sheets and blankets covered it. Along both sides were drawers for clothing. The white couch sat a the foot of the bed. Like all Lantean furnature it was firm yet comfurtable. The desk sat oposite the the bed pressed against the right wall. A small Lantean console sat on top of it and a screen was recessed into the wall above it. Elizabeth sat down and activated the console. The screen came to life and a picture of Helia appeared.
"Steven look at this," Elizabeth said. Steven was flipping through a book as he walked over and looked at the screen.
"What is it Doctor," Steven asked as he set the book down and leaned on the desk.
"It's a video file," Elizabeth said as she tapped the screen and the message played.
"I an Captian Helia of this Lantean Warship, the Tria. I recorded this message fot those from Earth that will one day recover and fix this ship. If you are watching this message that means that my crew and I were not able to come back and recover her ourselves. In which case we are most likely deceased. If that is the case then I leave the ship in your capable hands. May the Tria serve you well and stand as a beacon of hope to all who see her," Helia said before taking a ragged breath, "My only regret is that I did not go down fighting as so many of my people did. This is Captian Helia of the Lantean Warship Tria signing off."
"It seems she did plan on coming back," Steven said as stood back up.
"Well it's not like they would have left this ship floating here for the rest of time," Elizabeth said as an audible chime sounded in the background.
"Dr. Weir," Lia's voices said over the ships intercom.
"Yes Lia," Elizabeth said with a smile.
"Our new hyperdrive is installed and online," Lia said.
"Thank you. We are on our way to the bridge," Elizabeth said as she stood up from the chair she was sitting in.
"Understood ma'am," Lia said before a second audible chime was herd.
"Shall we," Elizabeth said as she looked at Steven.
"Ladies first," Steven said as he motioned to the door.
"Thank you," Elizabeth said as she walked towards the door followed by Steven. They made their way through the maze of halls towards the bridge. When they reached the hall leading into bridge, Dimas of the Coalition delegation was standing in the dorway talking with Lia. Dimas had a look of shame on his face, "Lia, Ambassador Dimas whats wrong," Elizabeth asked as she and Steven approached them.
"Ammbassador Shiana had to be detained to a holding cell," Lia said as she turned to Elizabeth.
"What," Elizabeth asked in surprise.
"What did she do," Steven asked.
"Commander Gold caught her trying damage several shield emmiters," Lia said.
"Please Doctor forgive me. Shiana acted without my knowledge or that of the other members of the delegation," Dimas said.
"Were any damaged," Elizabeth asked.
"No ma'am. Commander Gold and his team are standing watch over the Ammbassador's cell," Lia said.
"Ammbassador Dimas with you consent I would like to keep Shiana in a holding cell untill we drop you and the rest of the delegation off," Elizabeth said.
"Of course," Dimas said, "I won't be able to garenty she won't cause you anymore trouble."
"Lia have a sedative administered to Ammbassador Shiana," Elizabeth said.
"Yes ma'am," Lia said before turning and walking over to talk with Mear Green.
"Ava will you show Ammbassador Dimas to his room," Elizabeth asked.
"Yes ma'am," Ava said as she walked over to Dimas, "Ammbassador if you will follow me," The pair left the bridge an the door closed behinde them.
"Excuse me ma'am, sir," Commander Franc Green said as he approached the Elizabeth and Steven.
"Yes Commander," Elizabeth asked.
"The Deadalus just recieved an urgent subspace message from Earth and are requesting to forward it so Colonel Caldwell may here it," Franc said.
"Lets hear it," Elizabeth said. Franc nodded to Fred, who turned back to his console and pressed a few keys. A video feed of Woolsey appeared on the screen above him and began playing as Steven and Elizabeth walked toward Fred.
"This is Richard Woolsey of Atlantis Base. We recieved a distress call from the Athosian people. They are being attacked by the former Wraith Drone Warriors that have undergone the gene therapy. Colonel Sheppard took a response team ahead but reqested that you meet them at New Athos to assist," Woolsey said.
"Fred how long will it take for us to get to New Athos," Elizabeth asked.
"Twelve hours with the Travalers ship in tow," Fred said not looking up from his console.
"Steven," Elizabeth said as she turned to him.
"I take it your going to help as well," Steven said before tapping his ear piece, "Marks send word back to Mr. Woolsey that we will be assisting Colonel Sheppard."
"Yes sir," Marks replied over the radio.
"Doctor," Steven said with a nod.
"Colonel," Elizabeth said returning the nod.
"Beam me to the bridge," Steven said after tapping his ear piece. Steven disappeared in a flash of white light.
"Contact Captian Lebria on the Travelers ship and inform them we are good to go," Elizabeth said as she walked over to and sat in the Captains chair.
"Yes ma'am," Fred said not looking up from his console.
Elizabeth activated the ships inercom, "This is Dr. Weir. We have finished repairs and are ready to continue on our journey."
"Captain Lebria says that they are ready to go," Fred said as he looked over his shoulder.
"Commander position us to engage the tractor beam on the Travalers ship," Elizabeth said.
"Yes ma'am," Franc said as he typed a few commands into the console infront of him. The Tria moved with grace it had not seen in ages. It came to a halt just above the Travalers ship, "In position ma'am."
"Activate the tractor beam," Elizabeth said.
"Initiating tractor beam," Fred said as he touched a few keys on the console infront of him. An audible chime echoed through the bridge, "Tractor beam is set."
"Course is set for New Athos," Lia said as she looked at the navigations screen.
"Open a line of communication with the Deadalus," Elizabeth said. Fred touched a few keys on his console and nodded to Elizabeth, "Colonel Caldwell we are ready to go."
"As are we Doctor," Steven said over the radio.
"See you there," Elizabeth said as she looked out into space at the Deadalus. A hyperspace window formed in front of it and the Deadalus jumped into it. Elizabeth smiled, "Activate hyperdrive."
"Yes ma'am," Fred said. A hyperspace window formed in front of the Tria for the fist time in ten thousand years. The Tria, with the Travelers ship in tow, jumped into the window on its way to New Athos.
On New Athos the ground teams got to work or their assignments. In the skys above Jumpers One headed for the Hive ship in Orbit and Jumepr Two circled the settlement before fallowing Jumper One.
"Recieving transmission," Ford said as he brought the HUD on screen. A live feed of a young Commander appeared. His hair was silvery whit. A tattoo ran across his jaw line and down the right side of his neck.
"Report," Todd demanded.
"The drones are experiencing negative effects from the drug we now take. Their minds have become closed to us. Isolated attacks begain a day ago," The young Commander said, "We had to kill a few of the Drones after they ate a scientist."
"Just how many drones are on your two ships," John asked. Both Jumpers established low orbit.
"Both are under maned so an acurrate count is," The young Commander began after Todd nodded for him to answer.
"Estimate for me," John said getting a little frustrated.
"Two hundred fifty," The young Commander said.
"I take it the Hive has the majority of them," John asked.
"Yes. Only fifty are on the Cruiser," The young Commander said.
"Does that Cruise have a Dart bay," John asked.
"Yes," The young Commander said.
"Standby," John said. Todd nodded and the young Commander nodded back before the feed cut out, "Todd I have an idea but you're not gonna like it. Lorne come in."
"Yes sir," Lorne said as a video feed of Jumper Two's cockpit appeared on screen.
"Listen up there are two hundred and fifty hungry Wraith Drones on the two ships and the planet. Majority are confined to the Hive, a handfull are on the ground. Roughly fifty are in the Cruiser. Our ground team and the Athosians are handaling the planet we have these two ship. First we clear out the Cruiser the we take care of the Hive," John layed out the details.
"What are you suggesting Sheppard," Todd asked.
"How much do you wanna keep your usefull men alive," John asked.
"Extremly so. Why," Todd asked.
"Have all those who are able to be saved evacuate to the Cruiser in Darts and Transport Shuttles. Have them start clearing out the Drones in the Cruiser. Lorne you and Cadman will coordinate with Todd's commander on the Cruiser. Miko will take the Jumper back down to the planet to assist our ground team. Once they are done they will join you on the Cuiser. Todd, Ford and I will board the Hive and set it on a colision corse with this systems sun," John explained the highlights of his plan.
"You do realise we will most likely have to fight our way through nearly two hundred hungry Warrior Drones to get to the bridge then back to the Jumper," Todd said.
"Yeah. That thought had crossed my mind," John said.
"Very well. I'll order it so," Todd said as he closed his eyes.
"We are being hailed again," Ford said. The HUD split into two video feeds. The young Commander looked annoyed.
"Order the evacuation of the Hive," Todd said flatly. The young Commander went white as a sheet.
"Are you sure sir," The young Commander asked.
"Have all able bodied men evacuate in the figthers to the Cruiser. Use the transport shuttles to ferry the injured and any essential supplies. Leave the dead," Todd ordered.
"If the bay on the Cruiser should become filled where should our men go," The young Commander asked.
"To the settlement on the planet. There is a river not far from the settlement, with a large clearing next to it. Have them land there," John said. Todd nodded to the young Commander.
"Understood," The young Commander said before his feed cut out.
"Alright lets go," John said.
"Good luck Colonel," Evan said before the video feed from Jumper Two cut out. In the distance Jumper Two was headed toward the Cruiser. John piloted his jumper toward the Hive and an erie silence fell over him. A cold shiver ran up his spine as he approached the Dart Bay. The Bay doors were open and dozens of darts were streaming out of the bay. An occasional Transport Shuttle emerged and headed for the planet. When the long line of Darts and Shuttles stopped, John piloted the Jumper into the Bay.
Twelve hours later the Tria, with the Travelers ship in tow, and the Deadalus dropped out of hyperspace.
On the bridge of the Tria, the Asuran crew was fast at work.
"The Infirmary is prepped and ready," Mear said as she got up from her station to look at another console.
"Tractor beam disengagued ma'am," Fred said over his shoulder.
"Two Wraith crafts on sensors," Franc announced as he turned in his chair.
"Do detailed scans of both crafts and open lines of communication to Admiral Lebria and Colonel Caldwell," Elizabeth said as she returned to her chair. Two holographic screens appeared before her with video feeds of Steven and Lia.
"Dr. Weir how's your ship doing," Steven asked.
"Better then it has in ten thousand years," Elizabeth joked.
"I hope this is a serious conversation," Admiral Larrin Lebria said.
"Sticking around to help Admiral," Elizabeth asked.
"I do owe you both," Larrin said flately.
"Ma'am we are being hailed by the smaller of the two Wraith vessels," Fred said not looking up from his console.
"Open a channel," Elizabeth said as another holographic screen appeared with a video feed of Teyla.
"This is Teyla Emmagan Leader of the Athosian People aboard the Cutaran Cursier calling anyone aboard the Tria or the Deadalus," Teyla's voice said over the radio.
"Teyla its Dr. Weir we got here as soon as we could. What's the situation," Elizabeth asked.
"Colonel Sheppard, Captain Ford and Todd boarded the Hive twelve hours ago with the plan of putting on a colision corse with this systems sun. Two hours into their operation there was a massive explosion near the bridge of the Hive as they were fighting their way in. None of them were seriously injured but the bridge became inaccessible due to the explosion. They were on their way back to the jumper when another explosion occurred. They have been out of contact for several hours," Teyla explained.
"Steven can you scan for their transmitter signals," Elizabeth asked.
"Already on it Doctor," Steven said, "Well I have good and bad news on that front."
"What's the good news," Larrin asked.
"We have a lock on both Sheppard's and Ford's subcutaneous transmitters," Steven said, "There is also a Wraith Subspace Tracker near them. I'm guessing that's Todd."
"That would be likely. What's the bad news," Elizabeth asked.
"Our beaming capabilities are being jammed," Steven said.
"What's the plan then," Elizabeth asked.
"I'd noramlly suggest boarding parties but our sensors are showing nearly two hundred other life signs on that Hive between the Dart Bay and the location where Sheppard and Ford are," Steven said.
"Ma'am if I may," Franc asked as he stepped up behind Elizabeth.
"Go ahead Commander," Elizabeth said.
"Admiral, Colonel, Ms. Emmagan," Franc began as he nodded to each of them, "I am Commander Franc Green. I am prepaired to take a boarding party of volunteers to the Hive in an effort to resuce Colonel Sheppard, Captain Ford and the Cutaran Commander."
"How many Jumpers do we have on hand," Steven asked.
"We have three," Franc said.
"We have one here Colonel," Teyla said, "Colonel Lorne is volunteering to pilot it. As well Ronon, Dr. McKay, Captain Cadman, Dr. Kusanagi, Kanaan and I are willing to go."
"I have twenty men ready to go" Larrin said, "And I will be joining them. I owe Sheppard. Katana take over."
"Yes Admiral," Captain Katana Lebria said as she assumed Larrins place on the video feed from the Travelers ship.
"The twenty marines on New Athos can be of use as well as Solen and Sora," Teyla said before her video feed cut out.
"This is starting to sound like a plan," Steven said over the radio, "We'll beam the teams on the planet to the Tria."
"All nine of my Commanders have volunteered," Elizabeth said as Franc left the Bridge, "As well our infirmary is prepped incase of any injuries. Captain, Commander Blue will be arriaving shortly to gather your teams."
"This is Atlantis Jumper Two we are standing by," Evan said over the radio.
"Any specific location we are to transport voluteers," Steven asked.
"Sending coordinates Colonel," Elizabeth said as she received a nod from Lia.
"Transporting now," Steven said.
"Colonel this is Lia," Lia said.
"What can I do for you," Steven asked.
"I request you beam me aboard the Deadalus so I may augment you senors to pick up Asuran life signs encase an emergency beam out is needed," Lia said as she picked up an Ancient Life Signs Detector.
"Their jamming codes are on," Steven said.
"I may be able to deactivate them," Kanaan said over the radio, "But I can't garente anything."
"If you can then I should be able to beam our people out. Why didn't you bring this before," Steven asked.
"Because I might not be able to deactivate the jamming codes," Kanaan said, "And if I am able to, it will probably take as long as it will to fight our way to Colonel Sheppard and his team. Then once we get them out we still have to find a way to destroy the Hive."
"Well if you get the jamming codes deactivated I can beam a nuke straight into the heart of the Hive," Steven said.
"Or beam out any trapped teams," Lia said.
"Understood. Marks lock on to Lia's signal," Steven said. A whit light engulfed Lia and she disappeared from the bridge of the Tria. She reappeared behind Steven.
"This is Gate Ship Three we are in formation," Franc Red said over the radio.
"This is Gate Ship Two we just finished picking up Admiral Lebria's team and moving to formation," Franc Blue said over the radio.
"This is Gate Ship One we are standing by in formation," Franc Green said over the radio.
"Boarding party you have a go," Steven said over the radio. The four Jumpers accelerated towards the hive.
In the Dart Bay of the Cutaran Hive the four Jumpers set down next to one already sitting there. As the opened their rear hatches every one fanned out in a defensive circle.
"Ronon, McKay check Jumper One. See if it still works," Evan said as he looked around. Rodney and Ronon walked towards Jumper One. Ronon rounded on the open hatch fast with his Partical Magnum in hand.
"Clear," Ronon said as Rodney ducked inside.
"Colonel Lorne," Franc Green said as he looked around. Everyone relaxed their grip on their variouse weapons and looked to Evan.
"Commander," Evan acknowledge as he pulled out an Ancient Life Signs Dectector and looked at it.
"Boys," Larrin said as she holstered her Partical Magnum, "What's the plan?"
"Doctors Kusanagi and McKay will stay here with the marines. Your men will secure a path from the Jumpers to that coridor enterance," Evan said as Rodney approached them, "What's the news on that Jumper Doc?"
"Some small cosmetic damage but it's good," Rodney said.
"Alright you, Miko and the marines will stay here and secure the Jumpers," Evan said, "Admiral Lebria's men will secure a path way from the Jumper to that corridor enterance. Everyone else will stay together and make our way to Colonel Sheppard."
The marines formed a semicircle around the Jumeprs. The Travelers Security Teams spaced themselves evenly between the Jumpers and the corridor enterance. Evan and Ronon took point as the search party jogged off into the Hive. The fallowed the twisting and turning corridor.
"Which way," Larrin asked as they reached a intersection of five corridors.
"This way," Evan said as he moved towards the corridor to his left after looking at the Life Signs Detector, "Wait."
"What is it," Teyla asked.
"We have incoming," Evan said. Larrin, Ronnon, Solen, Sora, Laura, Teyla and Kanaan readied their weapons and the Asurans took defense stances. Roars echoed from the three corridors in front of them.
"What the hell was that," Sora asked.
"Nothing good," Ronon said. Streams of Warrior Drones came charging at them. The Asurans took the corridors infront and to the right while everyone else fired into the corridor to the left. Drones dropped to the ground one after another as weapons fire poured into them. The Asurans ripped some limb from limb as they came at them.
"Go my men and I will hold them off," Franc Green said as he and Franc Brown moved behind the rest of the search team.
"You herd the man push forward," Larrin said as she and Ronon began firing shots in rapid succession dropping Drone after Drone. Soon the stream began to thin. They pushed into another intersection.
"Which way," Teyla yelled as she reloaded he P90.
"This way," Evan yelled as he turned right. Larrin and Ronon took point beside Evan as the rest of the group laid down cover fire behind them.
"There is a work station in this room," Evan yelled as he looked into a room along the corridor, while Larrin and Ronon continued on.
"Let me see what I can do," Kanaan said as he ducked into the room. He approached the console and began scrolling through pages of data, "I can do it from here but its gonna take time."
"We can't all stay here," Evan said after her fired off a burst from his P90.
"Go find Colonel Sheppard and the others. I will stay with Kanaan," Teyla said as she ducked into the room.
"You sure," Evan said as he and Laura covered Solen and Sora as they reloaded.
"Yes. We will meet you back at the Jumpers," Teyla said as she pressed the door cotrol panel and the door shut.
"Hey you guys coming or what," Larrin yelled from up the corridor.
"Go, go, go," Teyla said as she laid down more cover fire. Evan, Laura, Solen and Sora ran to catch up with Larrin and Ronon.
Back in the Dart Bay Rodney and Miko were checking and rechecking each Jumper.
"This one is good Dr. McKay," Miko said as she pushed the crystal tray back up into the Jumper.
"So are the others," Rodney said as he walked into the Jumper. A roar echoed throughout the bay. Rodney and Miko looked at each other. They came out of the jumper and looked around. Two massive groups of Warrior Drones were running from either side of the bay, converging on the thin line of men.
"This is McKay. We have a problem here," Rodney said after tapping his ear peice.
The Traveler's Security Teams opened fire on the charging Drones. One after another charging Drones toppled over as red bursts of energy hit them. The marines took up positions along side the Travelers and began drilling the drones with their own bursts from their P90s.
Deep in the ship fighting hand to hand against diseased Warrior Drones, the Asuran Commander Frac Brown intercepted Rodney's transmission.
"We have to get back to the Dart Bay. They need help," Franc Brown said as he snapped the neck of a Drone.
"Take Red and Blue with you. We'll clear a path for the search team to get back," Franc Green said as he knocked a Drone back. Without another word Franc Brown, Red and Blue took off down the corridor towards the Dart Bay at blinding speed.
Elsewhere in the ship Evan, Larrin, Ronon, Solen and Sora found themselves without any targets for the time being.
"Which way," Solen asked as he inserted a new clip into his P90.
"Looks like just down this corridor," Evan said as he pointed with his P90.
"Come with me we'll scout ahead," Larrin said as she motioned for Laura and Sora to fallow her.
"Look behind any doors you find," Evan called after them.
"This is McKay. We have a problem here," Rondey's voice said over the radio.
"What's your situation Doc," Evan said after tapping his ear piece.
"We're about to be over run," Rodney said as gun fire echoed in the background noise of his transmission.
"Colonel Lorne this is Commander Brown. My self and two of my brothers are on are way to assist Dr. McKay. Continue your search for Colonel Sheppard. Commander Green is clearing a path for your team to get back," Franc Brown said over the radio.
"We found them," Laura said as she came into the intersection with an unconscious Ford on her sholders. Blood was dripping from his head and a couple bandaged wounds on his arms.
"Hey Chewy give me a hand will ya," John said as he and Larrin helped Todd walk. John and Todd both had several blood soaked bandages on their arms and legs.
"You look like hell," Ronon said as he lefted Todd onto his sholders.
"I'll be fine. I lost my radio in the explosion and someone took a bite out of Ford's," John said as he leaned against a wall and looked from Larrin to Evan, "I take it the Deadalus got here?"
"Yes sir," Evan said.
"Can we beam off," John asked.
"Not yet. Kanaan and Teyla are working on it," Evan said as he handed John a full clip for his P90.
"Radio," John said. Solen handed him his radio, "Kanaan, Teyla."
"John," Teyla responded.
"How's that beam out coming," John asked
"Almost there Colonel," Kanaan said.
"Are you alright," Teyla asked.
"I'll live but Ford and Todd are really banged up," John said.
"We need to move. Now," Sora said as she came running up to the group.
"Why," John asked. A loud roar echoed through the hall. Sora and John looked at each other, "That's good enough for me. Move it now."
They group took off at a run. Sora, Solen and Evan took point. Laura and Ronon fallowed behind with their passangers on their sholders. John and Larrin brought up the rear. They quickly made their way back to the hall where Teyla and Kanaan were trying to deactivate the Jaming Codes.
"In here," Teyla said as she motioned for Ronon and Laura to set Todd and Ford down.
"Incoming," Larrin yelled before firing off two blasts from her Partical Magnum. John unleashed a burst of bullets from his P90.
"Kanaan how's it coming," John asked as he ducked into the room while Ronon took his place in laying down cover fire.
"Shit. I'm out," Larrin yelled as she ducked into the room.
"Ronon look out," Franc Green yelled as he slipped passed Ronon and begain cutting through the Warrior Drones filling the hallway, "The path to the bay is clear. Go now."
"There I got it," Kanaan said.
"Deadalus this is Sheppard beam Todd and Ford out now. We'll make our way to the Jumpers," John said as he squeezed the radio he had. Todd and Ford disappeared in a flash of white light, "Fall back to the Jumpers," Everyone made a break for the Dart Bay while Franc covered them. John set up a C4 charge on a thirty second timer, "Move it Commander that's an order."
John and Franc took off toward the bay, rounding a corner just as the charge went off.
In the Dart Bay the bodies were piling up as wave after wave of Warrior Drones charged the men guarding a path to the Jumpers. The Asurans had made a significant difference as the made quick work of some of the more persistent Drones. As the search team emerged from the corridor they joined in the effort to drive the Warrior Drones back.
"Where's Sheppard," Rodney asked as Evan and Larrin came up to him.
"He was right behind us," Evan said. The echo of a load explosion pulsed through the ship.
"And what the hell was that," Rodney said. Just then the remaining Asuran Commanders charged into the bay fallowed by John.
"Everyone fall back to the Jumpers," John yelled. The marines and Travelers security teams began pulling back towards the Jumpers.
"You herd him. Move," Larrin said as she aimed a AT4 at a group of Warrior Drones. Everyone jumped out of her line of fire. She fired the rocket and incinerated dozens of Drones.
"Nice shot," John said, "Now get in the Jumper," Everyone rushed into the Jumpers.
"Maybe I should drive," Rodney said as he entered John's Jumper fallowed by Larrin.
"Not now Rodney," John said before activating the ships communications system, "Jumper One ready to go."
"Jumper Two, ready to go," Evan said over the radio.
"Gateship One, Two and Three are ready," Fran Green said over the radio.
"Lift off," John said. Without another word the four vessels lifted off and headed for the bay doors.
"Sheppard why aren't we taking off," Larrin asked. John shook off her question as he made the Jumper lift off and head for the bay doors.
"Deadalus now," John said as his Jumper cleared the bay accelerating at maximum sublight.
"Deploying warhead," Steven said over the radio. A second later the hive exploded in a vibrant burst of color and light. What little that survived burned up in the atmosphere of New Athos. John visably relaxed as he say the flaming pieces burn up. He slupped forward on the control.
"McKay take over," Larrin said as she pulled John out of the pilots seat and Rodney took his place.
A couple days later John was laying on a bed in the Atlantis's Infirmary. A few bandages covered parts of his arms. Nurses and doctors were going about their normal duties. Rodney, Jennifer, Teyla, Kanaan, Ronon and Arkan were sitting around John in chairs.
"How's he doing," Woolsey asked as he and Lieutenant General Hank Landry walked into the Infirmary.
"Carson says he should be back on active duty in a week or so," Rodney said.
"Personally I think I might take some leave after I got out of here," John said as he sat up. Everyone smiled at the sound and sight of John in good spirits.
"Colonel," Arkan said as he rushed over and hugged John, "I was worried about you."
"John," Teyla said excited.
"Hey buddy," Ronon said.
"How are ya feeling son," Hank asked.
"I'm fine. Trust me I've had worse," John said as he and Arkan released the hug.
"That's good to hear," Hank said as he patted John on the sholder.
"How are Ford and Todd," John asked as he looked around for them.
"Captain Ford and Commander Todd are fine. They were both treated by Dr. Weir's medical team. Apparently the Mear's had been working on a nanite medical treatment," Woolsey said.
"What," John said with a puzzled expression.
"Its an injection of a massive dose of preprogrammed nanites to repair a wide variety of physical ailments. Once they are done they are removed in a unit of blood," Rodney explained, "It's quite ingenious really."
"They are also working on a topical version," Jennifer said.
"So why didn't I recieve that treatment," John asked.
"Actually you did, however your dose wasn't quite ready. They did as much work as they could before they had to be removed before they did any damage. So you still have some natuaral healling to do," Carson said as he walked over to join the group, "Captain Ford and Todd are both on their feet and doing fine."
"That's good to know," John said, "Has Deadalus made it back yet?"
"Colonel Caldwell volunteered to assist with a few issues before coming back. Everyone sends their reguards and wishes you well. Now as far as you leave request is concerned," Woolsey began. Everyone had looks on their faces as if Woolsey was going to give John bad news, "I insist that you take a month and introduce you son to the rest of his family. Lieutenant Colonel Lorne can fill in while your gone. I myself am taking two weeks off, though I'm not leaving the city. However General Landry has volunteered to fill in for me."
"Sounds like a plan," John said as he leaned back against his cot.
"Alright everyone lets give the Colonel some space so he can rest.," Hank said.
"Get well John," Teyla said as she and Kannan stood to leave.
"I'll bring dinner by later," Jennifer said as she and Rodney stood to leave.
"I'll make sure she brings you a beer," Rodney said.
"You will do no such thing," Carson said, "Now go on out with you."
"Come on Arkan lets go spar," Ronon said as he patted Arkan's shoulder. Arkan looked from Ronon to John.
"I'll be fine. Go ahead and have some fun. I'll be fine," John said in a reassuring tone.
"Alright," Arkan said as he got up and fallowed Teyla, Kannan, Woolsey, Hank, Jennifer and Rodney out of the Infirmary.
"Ronon," John said as Ronon went to fallow Arkan out of the Infimary.
"Yeah," Ronon asked as he looked back at John.
"Go easy on him. I don't need him to wind up in a bed next to me," John said.
"No promises," Ronon said as he turned and fallowed everyone out.