CH25 (late April 2013)
Part 1) Long Nights
Sam sat at the desk in her office, struggling to mull through a stack of reports that were continuing to pile up. Bill was busy splitting his time between the SGC and the rebuilding at Area 51. She had thought keeping things under control would have been easier. Back in the day, this would have been no problem. But now sleep deprived and sexually frustrated, Sam was rethinking allowing Aliana to go to Atlantis. She closed the file, put on her reading glasses and tried to focus on the e-mails on her electronic tablet.
Unfortunately all she could think about was her growing frustration with her family situation. Things had gone as smoothly as could be expected when the children first came to them. Now, with the new school at the SGC, Jacob seemed to be settling. He was still nervous and overprotective, but the nightmares were fewer. Johanna on the other hand seemed to be regressing. Janet said that the other Samantha Carter had just weaned the baby, and she was fully on the bottle and trying baby food. But with each passing day, Johanna became more adamant that she wanted Sam to nurse her, and refused to take a bottle from her. She still accepted the bottle from Jack, and Cassie, and even the child care workers at the school said Johanna was an easy to please baby. Sam couldn't help but worry that somehow Johanna knew that she wasn't her real mother.
Last night things had gotten heated between her and Jack. It wasn't his fault, but it hurt Sam, and she was feeling rejected.
~Sam spent 3 hours determined to put Johanna down for the night, but the child only wailed at the top of her lungs. It was well after midnight, and Jack realized, that they would be going another night without getting lucky, if she wasn't asleep soon. He had already offered 3 times to put the baby to sleep but Sam refused. He looked at is alarm clock with annoyance and Johanna belted out another series of weary cries.
-Jack: (calling into the other room) Sam, why don't you just let me get her.
-Sam: (clearly aggravated) I said I've got it!
One more scream, was all Jack could take. He jumped out of bed, threw on his robe and went down the hallway. One look at Sam, and he could see she was worn out, trying to gently cradle the uncooperative baby. He reached he's arms out to retrieve the child, and Sam looked at him with daggers in her eyes.
-Jack: Oh for crying out loud!
-Sam: (handing her over) Fine!
Sam walked away, devastated as she listened to the baby sobbing and huffing for breath. She crawled into bed exhausted, and within a few minutes the sobbing began to disparate. She pulled the covers up almost over her head and tried not to cry. A few minutes later Jack came in and got into bed. She rolled over giving him her back. He reached over and tried to cuddle up to her but she shrugged him off.
-Jack: Hey, come on, Sam...
-Sam: Don't.
-Jack: It's just going to take a little more time...
-Sam: I don't want to talk about it. It's late.
Jack turned over on his back trying not to let his frustration be heard. Sam was quiet. She hoped that he would think she fell asleep, but she didn't. She just couldn't shake the feeling that Johanna knew the truth.
She hadn't realized she was dosing off until her elbow slid across the desk, causing her head to bob quickly. She took a sip of her coffee, and tried to shake it off. She looked at the clock. Only 2 more hours and Aliana would be back, to take some of the workload. That would be a relief.
Jack was just leaving the school, having dropped off Jacob and Johanna, and made his way to the elevators. He was a bit surprised to see MJ and Jennifer step off the elevator onto this level. There was nothing here but the school. He hated to admit there was still an awkwardness around Jen Hailey. He figured there probably always would be. But he was her commanding officer, so the had to get over it.
-Jack: Hello Major... Lieutenant.
-Jen/MJ: (saluting) General!
-Jack: What brings you two this way.
-Jen: We ummm...
-MJ: We volunteer at the school, Sir.
-Jack: Right... Dr. Fritz says they're going to build a rocket today.
-Jen: Yes, Sir... It's a week long project. We thought it would be fun for all the age groups to get involved...
-MJ: We have some time, with Col. Mitchell being down for a while.
-Jack: Of Course. Let me know when the launch is. I'll be sure to schedule it in.
-MJ: Yes, Sir.
-Jack: (stepping into the elevator) As you were.
Jack closed his eyes for just a moment as he rode the elevator to his office. The thought had crossed his mind to see Sam, but she was barely speaking to him after last night, and she was falling behind on her work. He would send her a message to join him for lunch. Daniel would be back, so hopefully that would brighten her mood.
CH2) Welcome Back
Aliana hardly slept at all last night. She felt as if she were floating on a cloud. She laid across Daniels chest as he slept. She held out her hand and marveled at the ring sparkling in the early morning sunlight. Her thoughts drifted to the day before. Spending their last day in the Pegasus Galaxy on New Athose had been a treat. The small city was coming along nicely, and the outlying farm villages were thriving. But it was returning to Atlantis that had been the highlight.
~ Daniel took Aliana for a walk through some of the remote areas of the city. He held her hand tight as they walked. The sun had set hours ago, but they wanted to absorb every last moment they had in the city.
-Daniel: I want to show you something.
-Aliana: Where are we going?
-Daniel: You'll have to wait and see.
They went into one of the towers and took a transporter up. When they arrived at the top, Aliana stood in the rage round room looking with amazement. Large windows were perfectly placed to give views of the ocean and not the buildings. But the most spectacular was the glass ceiling. The stars shown overhead almost giving the feeling tat you could reach up and touch them.
-Aliana: this is absolutely incredible.
-Daniel: The city is filled with places like this.
-Aliana: Makes me never want to leave.
-Daniel: I know the feeling. Come have a seat. I picked up some fruit from the mainland.
They walked to the center of the room where Daniel had laid out some blankets that he picked up from New Athose. They laid back and watched the stars. They nibbled on the fruit and talked about how much they had enjoyed their time in Atlantis.
-Aliana: This is the perfect way to spend our last night here.
-Daniel: Are you looking forward to going home.
-Aliana: I can't wait to see Vala, MJ and Sam... And to tell Carolyn about the work here. But I really can't wait to see Cam. I feel bad that he's going through this not I'm not there. It means a lot to me to a part of SG1.
-Daniel: Best parts of my past were with SG1.
-Aliana: (smiling) I can understand that.
-Daniel: it's because of that, that I can look to my future... To better things ahead. To a life with you.
He handed Aliana a box, and slowly opened it exposing a ring
-Aliana: What... What is this?
-Daniel: I love you Aliana Sinclair. Will you marry me.
-Aliana: (gasp) You want to marry me.
-Daniel: (smiling) Yes, I do. Very much so. I never thought I could feel this way again. And our time here has made me realize, this is what I want... This life, with you.
-Aliana: ( whisper) Me too...
-Daniel: is that a yes?
-Aliana: Yes... Yes!
Daniel opened his eyes, and watched her for a moment as she admired the ring. She could get a better look at it now that the sun was up. It took him a moment to focus without his glasses.
-Daniel: Your not going to change your mind now that you've got a better look at the ring , are you?
-Aliana: Never. It's perfect.
-Daniel: you know we have to go finish packing. We leave in four hours.
-Aliana: (whining) I know. I kind of wish we could stay here, like this forever.
-Daniel: And miss my lunch date with Jack?
-Aliana: (laughing) No, we can't have that.
Jack spoke to Mr. Woolsey on the monitor as the blue glimmered through the Stargate. They went over a few things... Most of which Jack could review in detail via the data burst transmission.
-Jack: Well, Woolsey, I guess you can send my people back.
-Woolsey: They are on their way as we speak. And when will I receive my top Marine and my new Doctor?
-Jack: tomorrow afternoon. The IOA will review your updated and send their data burst back with Colonel and Dr. Lorne.
-Woolsey: Sounds like a plan.
A few seconds later, Daniel and Aliana came through the gate, and Jack walked down to meet them. As if right on cue, Sam met him at the blast door entrance and they walked into the gate room together.
-Jack: Welcome back.
Jack gave him a firm and friendly handshake, with a half hug.
-Daniel: Hello Jack. It's good to be back.
-Jack: Aw, you're just saying that, so you don't hurt my feelings.
Cam sat in his medical bed working on some physical therapy exercises. He slowly pulled himself up and then back down again, depending completely on his arms to get him up. He'd be a lot happier to be in his own quarters, but Dr. Brightman thought he needed more time. He looked a bit surprised when Carolyn came in. Cam lowered himself back onto the bed.
-Cam: What brings you here? Thought you'd be hangin out with your new husband.
-Carolyn: Evan went to see his sisters today. I'm just wrapping up some lose ends here.
-Cam: Oh... Right...
-Carolyn: We're going to Atlantis tomorrow morning.
-Cam: And I'm on the list of lose ends?
-Carolyn: No. You're my friend. Otherwise I wouldn't come see you everyday.
-Cam: Sorry. You shouldn't be wasting your honeymoon hangin out in the infirmary.
-Carolyn: I haven't been wasting my honeymoon. Evan and I have been enjoying ourselves. And I don't mind keeping an eye on you.
-Cam: Carolyn... I'm glad you found somebody. I'm glad you're happy.
-Carolyn: Thank you for saying that.
-Cam: Is she out there?
-Carolyn: Yup. She's out there everyday. Asking how you're doing.
-Cam: But she doesn't come in... I mean why would she. Look at me..
-Carolyn: Okay, stop it right there. Whatever is going on with her, has nothing to do with you. Sam, MJ, and I... We're here for you.
-Ali: (walking in) So am I, and Daniel.
-Cam: Hey, welcome back Kid!
-Ali: Its good to see you boss.
-Cam: Looks like I'm not your boss anymore.
-Carolyn: You two catch up, I'll meet you back here later.
-Cam: I'll be here.
Aliana went to his bedside and put her arms around him. He held on to her for a moment... Long enough to let Aliana know he was having a hard time.
-Ali: I'm sorry I wasn't there for the mission. If I'd been there maybe I would have seen something on the monitor...
-Cam: Hey, no... Don't go there. Sam was there, along with a whole science team. Nobody saw it coming till it was too late.
-Ali: How are you doing with all of this?
-Cam: Well, it sucks.
-Ali: How is your physical therapy going?
-Cam: It's going slow. I can't feel anything...
Cam patted the bed for Aliana to sit beside him. She grabbed his charts and started thumbing through it. Cam put his hand on the file and she lowered it.
-Cam: Hey, I have a doctor. Brightman takes care of that. Same as I told Carolyn... If you're here as my friend...
-Ali: Okay, I'll put it away.
As he brushed his hand over hers, he couldn't help but notice the ring on her finger. He took her hand and held it up.
-Cam: What is this? Don't tell me...
-Ali: (grinning) Yes... He asked me last night. I still can't believe it.
-Cam: That's great. It's happening for you kid.
-Ali: It's going to happen for you too.
-Cam: (stretching his hands over his legs) Oh, I think I kind of messed that up.
-Ali: Don't say that. (pause) I saw Vala waiting outside the infirmary.
-Cam: She hasn't come to see me since I've been in here.
-Ali: Cam, are you serious? I had no idea.
-Cam: It doesn't matter...
-Ali: Cam...
-Cam: Tell me about Atlantis.
-Ali: (smiling) It was incredible. The city is amazing... And working there, with doctor Becket...
-Cam: How's the ATA gene therapy thing going?
-Ali: I think we've found a way to make the recessive gene permanently dominant. And I'm working on a way to splice the ATA gene into ordinary DNA.
-Cam: So in theory... Anyone could be given the gene.
-Ali: That's hat we're hoping.
There was a knock on the door and TJ came into Cam's medical room. She held up an electronic tablet, and Cam looked as if he knew what it was for.
-TJ: Colonel, your parents are ready to Skype in. The line is secure.
-Cam: Thanks TJ.
-Ali: I'd better go. But I'll see you later.
-Cam: Thanks for stopping in.
She gave his hand a quick squeeze before making her way out. She looked round for Vala, but there was no sign of her. It didn't matter anyway. She had to meet Daniel for lunch with the O'Neills.
Part 3) Old Friends
Daniel was glad Jack chose to have lunch in his quarters. It was nice to be able to talk without having to watch what was said. They all exchanged stories about their time in the City of the Ancients, before Daniel and Ali recalled the marriage proposal. Sam's enthusiasm was genuine but Daniel saw the dark circles under her eyes.
-Sam: Oh, Daniel, you couldn't have picked a better spot in the city. It suits you... Both of you.
-Daniel: It was all I could do to keep from showing her the North Tower solarium sooner. But it all worked out.
-Jack: So it has... Damn it! Yes... (Getting up and walking from the table)
-Daniel: Was it something I said?
-Sam: (smiling) No... We're switching over to the ear piece radio, verses the traditional intercom system.
-Ali: Like the ones utilized in Atlantis.
-Daniel: Landry never liked them, so he preferred the old way of doing thing.
-Ali: I've got to go. I have MJ scheduled for an appointment, and I need to go over his progress for the last few weeks.
-Sam: You're going to miss desert.
-Jack: Looks like im going to have to skip desert too.
-Ali: thank you for lunch.
-Jack: I'll walk out with you.
Daniel waited for them to leave, before speaking up. Sam looked tired. More like worn down. She got up and busied herself clearing the table. He gently tapped her arm and motioned for her to sit down. The sympathetic look on his face let her know she was hiding nothing.
-Sam: Come on. I don't look that bad do I?
-Daniel: Actually... You want to tell me what's going on?
-Sam: Nothing... Everything is fine.
-Daniel: No, it's not.
Sam sat in her chair defeated. It didn't take much more coaxing for her to tell Daniel about her struggles with motherhood. Daniel listened carefully. Admittedly he found it difficult to understand how she was feeling. The closest thing he had to a child was Shifu, whom he'd only been permitted to see a handful of times.
-Daniel: Maybe it's Norman for babies to have a hard time transitioning from nursing to the bottle.
-Sam: Great. So even you think I'm over exaggerating the situation.
-Daniel: No, I'm not saying that...
-Sam: Daniel, I'm not crazy. She knows I'm not her mother. And it kills me that she doesn't want me. She won't let me feed her, and she cries all night, until Jack comes to put her to sleep.
-Daniel: Patience and time.
-Sam: I'm trying to be patient, and we've had the kids for over almost two months.
-Daniel: When I first was able to visit with Shifu, I didn't understand him. He and I spoke a different language. Words had different meanings. And the riddles, didn't make much sense.
-Sam: I remember.
-Daniel: Well I kept studying. Listening... Trying to understand him. It's not perfect, but the last time I visited, he called me father, even though he knows...
-Sam: that you're not his real father.
-Daniel: Yup.
-Sam: So I shouldn't give up. I just need patience and time.
-Daniel: You're a great mom Sam. I know this is going to work out.
Alina looked over MJs charts, after she took blood samples. She was pleased with his progress while she was away, but he was not. The reduction of the hormone treatment halted his progression and dimmed his telepathic abilities.
-Ali: I know you're not happy with the reduction in treatment, but it was the right thing to do.
-MJ: Tell that to Col. Mitchell.
-Ali: What is that supposed to mean?
-MJ: Its our fault he's paralyzed. Char tried to get me a message, and... I couldn't hear her.
-Ali: I'm your doctor. Your health and safety are my responsibility. This treatment is changing you in ways that we don't even come close to understanding. If Gen. O'Neill knew everything that was happening to you, he would have made us stop this a long time ago. And you know it. I'm already pushing this more than I'm comfortable with.
-MJ: I know... I'm sorry.
-Ali: Now that I'm back, I feel comfortable increasing your treatment again.
-MJ: ( relieved) Thanks.
-Ali: Wed better hurry. The general is expecting us at the meeting at 1600 hours.
-MJ: (grinning) Getting used to the military lingo, I see.
-Ali: (smiling) I'm trying.
Part 4) Broken Ties
After lunch Sam actually managed to get a nap. Aliana agreed to go through the files from the science team, affording her some much needed alone time. She awoke to the sound of Jack calling to her on the ear piece.
-Jack: Hello... Sam. Wake up.
-Sam: (groggy) I'm awake...
-Jack: Just thought I'd remind you that we have a guest arriving in, oh, 10 minutes.
-Sam: Darn it... I forgot. I'll meet you in the gate room.
Sam only needed a few minutes to pull herself together and meet Jack and Daniel at the control room. She was just in time to watch the last chevron light up and then the splash of the Stargate's vortex. A familiar face appeared on the monitor.
-Kegan: Stargate Command this Ambasador Kegan Tirshak of New Hammand. Our delegation is ready to embark.
-Jack: Send them through.
They walked down to the gate room to great Kegan, Gen. Yan Lenoxx, and Senator Gamen Ralin. They exchanged polite greetings before gathering in the conference room. MJ, Aliana and SG 5 were already in there reading over the file on P3R-118 also know as Agerra. SG1had been kidnapped and had their memories erased and stamped. They were forced to work in the mines and engineering facility beneath the surface. Jack introduced everyone, before the group sat down and began the briefing.
Kegan explained the situation on Agerra. Over the past 12 years, the Dome City had fallen into disrepair. And instead of trying to improve the city or rebuild their civilization, they wanted to relocate to Hammond.
-Kegan: We have worked hard over the past 12 years to build the City of Serena on Hammond. We have been building interstellar spacecrafts and selling them through out the galaxy. This has made us quite prosperous.
-Ali: I'm sorry, but I must ask... If you're advanced enough to build spacecrafts, why would the others chose to stay on a planet that is in the midst of an Ice Age.
-Ralin: It began almost thirty generations ago, our geologist foresaw the coming ice age. They began to devise ways for our people to survive. One group believed we should put our resources into building space ships and leaving Agerra. But another faction of scientists believed that venturing into space was a death sentence. Our leader at the time Administrator Henlot agreed. They began building the Agerra Dome City. As the ice age began, people became desperate. There was a huge divide between those who wanted to go, and those who wanted to stay. Administrator Henlot declared those who opposed him, to be committing an act of treason. They rounded up the all those who dare oppose living in the domes and imprisoned them. That is how it began.
-Lenoxx: Over the next 200 years, anyone who came against the administration was locked away in the slave labor camps beneath the city. Now that they don't have slaves to do their dirty work, they want to leave.
-Jack: So they can leave. We've already offered them an uninhibited planet, were they can start all over on their own.
-Kegan: They continue to refuse.
-Daniel: They don't want to do the hard work required to rebuild.
-Ralin: Correct. They want us to help them find a way to keep the City of Agerra running. Or they want to move to Serena Hammond with us. I can promise you, we will not allow them to come to our home. Not after what they did to us.
-Daniel: No one will ask you to do that.
-Sam: Why not leave them to figure it out on their own?
-Lenoxx: many of us wish to do just that.
-Kegan: But there are others of us who are not so sure.
-Aliana: why would you con cider helping them, after everything they did to you?
-Kegan: Because some of us were not born beneath the surface. we lived uptop before we were taken and had our memories erased. We have family left behind.
-MJ: You're family left you down there? They made you a slave... I'm sorry but that's not my idea of family.
-Lenoxx: And some of us have children. Children that were taken from us and raised by those above the surface.
-Jack: Oh. There is that.
-Kegan: There is one other reason that you may want to get involved. Agerra has been contacted by the New Alliance. They are desperate for help.
-Jack: So if we don't help them, they'll run strait to Thena.
-Sam: The Agerrans may be lazy, but they're still very advanced. Last thing we need is them working with the New Alliance.
-Kegan: I thought you might feel that way. I've arranged a meeting with Administrator Calder for tomorrow.
-Jack: I'm sending Daniel and Sam to mediate for you. SG5 will be your security detail. Aliana, can get an assessment of the city's power situation. And MJ you stay with Aliana.
-MJ: Yes Sir.
-Cam: I'm not getting in the wheel chair.
-Carolyn: If you don't get in the chair, you're going to stay stuck in this room.
-Cam: C'mon! At least let me use a walker.
-Carolyn: You can't use a walker, because you have no feeling below your waist.
It didn't surprise Carolyn that Cam didn't want to be led around the base in a wheel chair, but he didn't have any choice. If he was going to get around, this was his best option.
-Cam: I get in that chair, and that's it. I'm admitting what everyone else already knows. I'm not going to walk again.
-Carolyn: I don't believe that. And I don't think you do either. There's a chance that the damage to your spinal cord is not permanent. Give it time.
-Cam: I got nothin but time.
-Carolyn: Cam. Get in the chair.
She gave him a look that let him know she wasn't messing around. He let out a long breath and tipped his head back against the pillow. He really didn't want to do this, but Carolyn wasn't going to give up. She locked the wheels, and waited for him. He lowered the bed to try and match the height of the chair, and clumsily maneuvered his way onto the chair. Carolyn did her best to advise him, but allowed him to do it on his own.
-Cam: Now that was a workout.
-Carolyn: Not bad for your first time. Mind if I drive.
-Cam: Go for it.
They exited the small private medical room, and made their way through the infirmary. Cam's face lit up when he saw Vala down the hall, and their eyes met. He was about to call out to her, but she looked away quickly, then walked off.
-Cam: Well, I guess we know what she thinks.
-Carolyn: Don't give it a second thought.
-Cam: Okay... Where are we going?
-Carolyn: I thought you might want to get a few things from your quarters.
-Cam: Oh, man... That would be great.
When she opened the door for him to wheel in, he was shocked. His bed had been changed out and fully equipped. There were straps hanging down to assist him in physical therapy exercises and lifting himself.
-Carolyn: The emergency call buttons are here and here. The bathroom is also ready, and there's a call button in there as well. The nurse showed you how to take care of your...
-Cam: Yup... I know how to go to the bathroom.
-Carolyn: Good.
-Cam: Did you do all this?
-Carolyn: I talked to Dr. Brighman first... But yes. My farewell gift for you.
-Cam: Thanks... For everything.
-Carolyn: I'm glad I could help. I'm going to run a few errands and give you some time to get used to your room. Do you need anything before I go?
-Cam: No, I think I can handle things from here.
-Carolyn: (smiling) Okay. I'll see you later.
In truth, Carolyn only had one errand. Find Vala and give her a piece of her mind. Sure enough, she found her hanging around the infirmary, flirting with one of the male nurses. She walked right up to her.
-Carolyn: What are you doing here?
-Vala: I was hoping to find out how Mitchell is doing.
-Carolyn: If you want to know how he's doing, you should ask him.
-Vala: Oh... Well I...
-Carolyn: How do you think it makes him feel, when you ignore him? Whatever is going on with you... You need to put in aside. Try thinking of someone other than yourself for a change.
-Vala: I tried... But I can't.
-Carolyn: Why not?
-Vala: Because, it's my fault.
-Carolyn: He needs you Vala... Vala... wait...
She tried to call after her, but Vala turned and walked off too fast. She thought about going after her, but what would have been the point. She needed to let Dr. Brightman know that Cam was settling into his quarters. She was surprised to see Dr. Lee leaving her office.
-Bill: Wrapping up some last minute details before you head out tomorrow?
-Carolyn: Yes. I think Lisa will do just fine.
-Bill: I'm certain she will. And don't worry about Mitchell. He's in good hands.
-Carolyn: If all the swelling goes down and there's no permanent spinal cord damage... He may very well walk again.
-Bill: It's too bad about the Goa'uld healing device though...
-Carolyn: (with a questioning look) You were trying to use a healing device?
-Bill: Yea... You didn't know. It was Vala's idea. She's really mastered the technique. Unfortunately, the one recovered at Area 51 is not functioning, and the other two are lost in the debris.
-Carolyn: No, I wasn't aware that Lisa was going to try it.
-Bill: She probably didn't mention it to Mitchell for this very reason. No need to get his hopes up only to be disappointed. I had to break the news to Vala. Shame she blames herself for his condition. I better get back to the lab.
Carolyn finished up in the infirmary. She had a couple more boxes in her office she would pick up in the morning. There was a feeling of sadness, but it was quickly overshadowed by the excitement of going to Atlantis, with her husband. She couldn't help but smile every time she thought of Evan as her husband. She had one more thing to take care of. She grabbed the e-reader from the desk and made her way to Vala's quarters. She took a deep breath as she knocked on the door and waited for her to answer.
-Vala: (opening the door) Here to chastise me some more.
-Carolyn: No, I'm came to apologize. Can I come in.
Vala moved out of the doorway allowing Carolyn to enter. She motioned for her to have a seat but, Carolyn chose to stand. Vala plopped down on the bed, fully expecting more of a lecture than an apology.
-Vala: Ok, let me have it
-Carolyn: ( handing her the e-reader) Here.
-Vala: (furrowing her brow) What is this.
-Carolyn: I'm sorry I was so hard on you early. It's hard to see someone you care about suffering.
-Vala: And even harder when that person is suffering because of something you've done.
-Carolyn: You need to stop blaming yourself. He could've taken that shot trying to save anyone.
-Vala: And it just so happened to be me.
-Carolyn: That's right. But he needs you, and I have a feeling you need him too.
Vala picked up the tablet and glanced at the information on it. She was more than a little intrigued.
-Vala: 'Dating a Paraplegic'... 'Intimacy After Spinal Cord Injury'... I think Mitchel and I are far from this.
-Carolyn: You're not as far as you think. But you have to start somewhere. I know about the Goa'uld healing device.
-Vala: I wanted to help him. I thought if I could make him better.
-Carolyn: That would have been great, but there are other ways you can make things better. Starting with going to see him. Avoiding him only hurts him more. And I can see it hurts you too.
-Vala: I wouldn't know what to say.
-Carolyn: I think you could figure it out. I'm leaving tomorrow, and he's going to need help adjusting to getting around his quarters, and getting through physical therapy.
-Vala: There's Sam, Daniel, MJ, and Ali...
-Carolyn: And he's going to need them... But I can see he's going to need something more. He's going to need someone to lean on when it's the middle of the night and he's ready to give up... When he starts thinking that maybe living this way isn't worth it...
-Vala: I don't know if I can be that person.
-Carolyn: Yes you can. You're a hell of a lot stronger than you think.
Part 5) For The Ones We Love
Daniel, Aliana, Sam, and Kegan sat in the officer's lounge having a drink and talking about the time beneath the surface. Hearing them describe the work conditions sent a shiver down Aliana's spine. She couldn't imagine being stuck in such a horrible situation.
-Ali: I don't know how you all didn't lose your sanity.
-Sam: Honestly we didn't know any different.
-Daniel: We were only down there for weeks though. Kegan was there for years.
-Ali: Do you mind if I ask how you ended up down there?
-Kegan: I was a criminal... A terrorist in the eyes the Administration. I was a science and engineering student. Graduated top of my class. Like all Agerrans I was told about the slave labor beneath the surface when I reached the age of twenty. I was appalled... Disgusted. I knew that there was a better way. And I learned that there were others like myself. We tried to come up with ways to improve the city and end the slavery. A group of us took our findings to the administration, but they were rejected. When we voiced our disagreement, we were taken away.
-Sam: And your family didn't protest your incarceration?
-Kegan: And risk being taken. No. People living in the dome didn't question the way things were done. They were happy to pretend we didn't exist.
-Ali: Left alone with no memory of your previous life, living in those miserable conditions...
-Kegan: when you're existing like that, you find ways to make life worth living. We worked 10 sometimes 12 hours a day, but we did find time to get away from it all. Time to be close to someone who could help us forget our pain and hardship.
Kegan, Daniel, and Sam gave each other knowing glances. Each could recall the other times... The private moments... Jack and Sam had been together more than once, when she was Thera and he was Jonah. Daniel had also been with Kegan. She was his one friend, the only person he cared about for weeks, before he regained his memory. But he thought his name was Karlan then.
-Kegan: it's no wonder there were so many children born beneath the surface.
-Ali: That's what 1st Officer Lenoxx was talking about.
-Kegan: Yes. There were strict population controls in the City. A couple was allowed two children. If they wanted a third child or if they were unable to have children they could chose a child from the orphanage. The children born Beneath the Surface. Pregnant women were taken away until they gave birth. The babies were placed in the orphanage, and the women returned to work.
-Ali: Why didn't you all take your children back, when your memories returned?
-Kegan: Some did. The ones with babies. But others... The children only knew the parents that raised them.
-Sam: It would be devastating to take them away from the only parents they've known.
-Kegan: And that was our dilemma. We did what we thought best for the children. I didn't truly understand the gravity of that decision until I had my own child.
-Sam: I can understand that. Speaking of children, I should spend some time with mine. Tomorrow may be a very long day away from them.
-Ali: I should go too. ( kissing Daniel on the cheek) I'll see you tonight.
-Kegan: I should meet with my delegation. I want to review a few things with them before tomorrow.
-Daniel: I'll walk you to your quarters.
They left the lounge and headed for the elevator. It never ceased to amaze Daniel, how different people were according to their environment. Kegan and the others were once beat down, struggling to survive, and now they were thriving. And more advanced that the people of Earth.
-Kegan: I can't thank you enough for coming with us to mediate these discussions.
-Daniel: We're happy to help. Before you leave, I've compiled a journal with some additional Ancient studies to help your daughter with her exploration of Hammond.
-Kegan: Thank you. She would really appreciate it.
-Daniel: I'm glad that she can get some use out of my work. I don't know if many kids are this interested in Ancient artifacts and geological exploration.
-Kegan: She is a very special girl. Goodnight Daniel.
-Daniel: Good night.
Kegan went inside her guest quarters and closed the door. Her heart was pounding heavy in her chest. It was never easy to talk to Daniel about her daughter. Karlana was the first child born on Hammond, and she never had the courage to tell him the truth about the girl. After all, their time together was not real... Not to him anyway.
Both of them had their memories stripped away and altered. They had been drawn together out of a need for friendship, and escape from their harsh reality. Often stealing away in the middle of the night for a quick taste of passion. And then when they had been set free, their memories returned... He went back to his life on Earth while she and her people needed to build a life on a new planet. It was weeks later before she found out she was pregnant, but there was no time to seek out Daniel and tell him.
It was Tirshak who was there for her throughout the pregnancy and helping to rebuild their society. When he asked her to marry him, of course she accepted. Still she had intended to tell Daniel the truth. But after Karlana was born it was months before she was able to meet with Daniel, to speak with him in person. Unfortunately, that meeting never happened. She was informed that Daniel had died of radiation poisoning. And so she and Tirshak raised Karlana together. By the time Daniel returned from ascension, it was too late.
She pushed the guilt of her secret away. There was no reason to dwell on it now. She only hoped that if the truth ever came to light, that he would forgive her.
Cam strolled down the corridors of the SGC in his wheel chair. He had increased confidence with Aliana and MJ walking by his side. He was nervous about how he would be perceived in the chair, by the SGC personnel. But everyone seemed supportive, and genuinely happy to see him getting around. It did a lot to boost his self esteem, but still, he wished desperately that he were walking. He put on his best face, determined not to show that he was cracking under the weight if his problems.
-Cam: I can't believe you're back for 1 day and already going on missions without me.
-MJ: It's not much of a mission, Sir. I get to baby-sit geek girl, while she looks around at a bunch of broken down engines.
-Ali: Every mission can't involve shooting guns and blowing up stuff.
-Cam: She's right. We gotta let the nerds have their fun too.
-Ali: Make fun all you want, but I'm pretty excited.
They were laughing and enjoying each others company, until they turned the corner to approach Cam's quarters. There was Vala, waiting outside his door. Cam's demeanor changed as they approached more slowly. MJ and Aliana looked at each other awkwardly, not sure if they should stay or go.
-Cam: What are you doing here Vala?
-Vala: I was hoping... I mean... Can we talk?
-Cam: I've got company right now...
-MJ: Actually, Sir, we should probably get going...
-Ali: We have to be up early for the mission. I'll come see you as soon as we get back:
-Cam: Ok, I'll catch you two later.
There was an even more awkward silence as they waited for MJ and Aliana to leave. Vala paced nervously, while Cam tried not to look annoyed. He brushed past her to open the door and wheeled into his room.
-Vala: Are you going to let me in?
-Cam: Come on in.
She closed the door behind her, still uncertain how to begin.
-Vala: I've missed you, Cam.
-Cam: Well, I've been in the infirmary for 3 weeks. Kinda had a hard time getting out to go see people.
-Vala: I know... I... Wanted to come see you, but...
-Cam: Don't worry about it. It's no big deal.
He adjusted his chair beside the bed, locking the wheels so the chair wouldn't move. He carefully began to lift himself onto the bed. It wasn't yet a smooth transition, as he was still getting used to o it on his own. Vala instinctively wet to his side.
-Vala: Let me help you.
-Cam: No, I got it. I have to get used to doing it on my on. I can't count on someone being here for me all the time.
She watched as he positioned himself on the bed. She hadn't planned on how painful it would be to watch him drag his legs onto the bed one at a time.
-Vala: I'm so sorry, Cam.
-Cam: Why because my legs don't work?
-Vala: It was my fault...
-Cam: No. It could have been anyone. You don't need to be sorry. So if that's all you wanted to tell me...
-Vala: What do you want from me?
-Cam:(shaking his head) You know what Vala... I don't want anything from you.
-Vala: Oh... I see.
-Cam: No... I don't think you do. I've had a lot of time alone in the infirmary. Just layin in bed... Unable to go anywhere. The only thing that seemed to help is when Sam or MJ, or Carolyn would come visit. But when I was alone, I kept thinking... I wish Vala was here. I didn't want an apology, or some grand gesture.
-Vala: I should have known... I've been so...
-Cam: You're here now, so thanks.
-Vala: You should be furious with me! I haven't been there for you.
-Cam: I admit, it did hurt, but... I know you well enough to know you were doing the best you could.
-Vala: Really...
-Cam: (half smiling) Sometimes, I imagined that you were devising some crazy scheme to fix things somehow. And that any minuted you'd come bustin' in all excited about your plan.
-Vala: The Goauld healing device...
-Cam: What?
-Vala: That was my crazy scheme... But it didn't work out.
-Cam: Thanks...for trying. Look, I don't want to keep you. I know Malcolm will be waiting...
-Vala: We broke up, After the mission. I called off the engagement.
-Cam: I didn't know... Sorry to hear that.
-Vala: Are you?
-Cam: I hope you find someone who makes you happy. I'm sorry it wasn't him, and I know now, that it can't be me. I know that I wasn't enough for you before, and now it's not even possible for me to give you what you need.
Vala turned away from him, biting her lip and fighting back the tears that stung her eyes. His words struck her to her core. Was he right? She had needs... A voracious sexual appetite. She read through some of the literature that Carolyn left for her. Yes, even Carolyn knew.
-Cam: Hey, it's okay... I wasn't trying to upset you. I just wanted you to know that I'm glad that your here. Even if its just as friends... It means a lot to me.
-Vala: (whisper) But I want more...
Cam wasn't sure what she had said, she spoke so softly. She turned back to face him, and sat beside him on the bed. They were silent for a moment. Vala could feel her heart racing. She was drawn to him. Her lips met his. And for a moment, he allowed himself to take in the pleasure of her kiss. But then he realized that something wasn't right. He held her back, breaking the kiss.
-Cam: Don't...
-Vala: But I want to.
-Cam: I can't...
-Vala: We can try.
Part 6) The Enemy
Back At The New Alliance Camp
It had been a while since Prime Administrator Thena had made a strike against Earths Stargate Program. Odai Ventrell was appointed her 1st Commander and Bronus was officially her chief Science Officer. Char's lounge was a hub for the many men who visited from the Various planets within the alliance. The Alliance had grown. Many of the planets that were at odds with Earth, sided with Thena and her vision for the Galaxy. Each planet sent a delegation to sit on the NA Councel, and serve in Thena's Army.
But there was still a great deal of distrust between her and these rogue worlds. Recently in order to ensure compliance, Thena had plotted the overthrowing of governments who were on the fence or weak in her yes. She was still convinced that she had a spy within her camp, and was taking drastic measures to weed out any subterfuge. Thena had taken a liking toMatther Scott who's alias was Vimmel. But her fondness of him would only get them so far. Any sign of betrayal, and Thena would not hesitate to report to the Jaffa High Council that Baal was alive and well.
Still it was a surprise to Vanessa when Col. Young, Lt. Scott and SSgt. Greer were called away in the middle of the night. when they did not return in the morning, she went to Char, worried about their sudden absence. They were careful and only spoke in public, just outside of Char's Lounge, to keep from rousing suspicion. Char was accustom to using using her alias. And Vanessa was grateful for the memory implants which allowed her to easily play the role of Sashia from Lorrase.
-Char: What brings you here so early in the morning Sashia.
-Vanessa: I was considering working here at the Lounge.
-Char: I think you'd make a fine addition. Come inside and we'll discuss it further.
Char escorted Vanessa to a table by the stage and poured her a drink.
-Char: So what is it that you really need?
-Vanessa: Last night Cody, Vimmel and Ross were summoned by Thena's security team. At first Niya and I thought they were being called to a meeting, but... They haven't returned. And no one has seen them since. What if we have been found out.
-Char: I see your reason for concern. Give me some time. I will see what I can find out.
-Vanessa: Thank you. I'm worried.
-Char: We should try not to worry too much just yet. If she was suspicious, she would have called for you and Niya as well.
-Vanessa: I hope you're right. But what if she's having us followed and trying see if we are who we are working with?
-Char: Well it is a good thing you are here to see my about occupation as a dancer.
The door at the entrance of the lounge opened, letting the sun light pour in for just a moment. The women glanced toward the door and saw Odai Ventrel walk in. He saw the ladies talking and slowly strolled towards them. He considered himself Thena's number two, though there were others who wanted the position. Still Odai had brought much of the former Lucian Alliance into the fold, warranting Thena's trust. They remained calm as he approached, though Vanessa was uncomfortable around him. He was the spitting image of Varro, but the brothers were nothing alike. Altho Vanessa didbwhat she could to discourage his attention, he seemed to be overly fond of her.
-Vanessa: (under her breath) Great.
-Char: Odai, what can I do for you. We aren't open for business until this evening.
-Odai: I was wondering the same thing about Sashia when I saw the two of you come in here.
-Vanessa: I've been thinking about joining Char and the ladies here at the lounge.
-Odai: You...work here?
-Char: I believe Sashia would make a fine addition here. She is quite lovely, and suitably built to attract patrons.
-Odai: That she is, but I'm sure we could find a better use of your time and talent.
-Vanessa: Well, you haven't found anything for me yet.
-Odai: You're acting as a liaison for your people.
-Vanessa: And what does that entail exactly. Thena may keep you in the loop about what goes on within the Alliance, but I have nothing to report back to Baltazzar and the Lorrasian people.
-Odai: The New Alliance is strong and growing...
-Vanessa: Which is what I have reported back for weeks now.
~Char: ( mentally to Vanessa) be wise and cautious with your words dear friend.
-Vanessa: ( understanding) I'm just a little bored. If you have no further use for me here, perhaps I should return home.
-Char: why don't I give you two a moment alone.
Odai had no intention of letting Sashia work at the lounge, and Vanessa knew it. She was very good at pushing back his advances, and yet he hadnt been discouraged. The thought of other men paying to wath her dance, or worse... paying her for sex, did not set well with him. He wanted her for himself. She only hoped that she had found a way to force his hand and let her into the inner circle.
-Odai: You're not seriously considering working here are you?
-Vanessa: I am. I've seen you in here plenty of times. I don't see why you have a problem with this place.
-Odai: What is this really about?
-Vanessa: I am here to take part in this Alliance, not to be a figure head for the Lorrasian people.
-Odai: Is this about you not being chosen for the mission?
-Vanessa: Mission? Is that where Cody and the others are? Why haven't Niya and I been kept informed.
-Odai: You know that Thena is keeping each mission on a need to know basis.
-Vanessa: But you know everything that's going on.
-Odai: even I don't know everything. I can tell you that your friends will be back. And if they prove themselves worthy, then they will be moved into the inner circle.
-Vanessa: And what about me?
-Odai: I can't make those decisions. It's up to Thena who she chooses...
-Vanessa: Well then working here is better than nothing. Besides, if I have no reason to be here then I'll go home. (calling to Char) I'll take whatever position you have available.
-Char: Wonderful. Return at mid day and we can prepare for tonight.
To Be Continued...