As he exited the wormhole it struck him that he had thought he would never see this planet again, and here he was, back after only a few days! Goes to show how impossible it is to predict the future, he thought.
His team somehow felt incomplete – minus Sam and with Janet (very weird that!). They were looking at him expectantly as he walked down the steps from the gate. At least they seemed confident in him – or at least two of them did. Janet had her "I'm the doctor and I'll tell you how you're doing' look on her face.
"Okay campers, let's hot foot it to the village. Hopefully we'll arrive before Ba'al. Teal'c, you take point, Daniel stick with the Doc. I'll bring up the rear. Keep your eyes peeled folks. We don't want any surprises."
Teal'c lifted the proverbial eyebrow at him but didn't say anything. He had long ago realized that humans used some unusual – but colorful sayings. Contrary to what he sometimes said, he usually always understood the connotation. He sometimes pretended he didn't, just to get a rise out of his teammates.
He immediately turned and headed towards the village with Daniel close behind. Janet stayed back, looking carefully at Jack.
He sighed. He knew this had been a mistake. He was going to have a babysitter on this trip if he didn't put a stop to it now.
"I'm okay Doc. You don't need to worry that I'm going to drop on my hands and knees and go into hysterics. We have a job to do and I'm fully capable of doing it. You can look after me when we return."
"It's not that Colonel. I just wondered if you'd noticed that you're speaking perfectly well now. It's quite amazing."
He stopped and looked at her in surprise. She was right, he hadn't even given it a thought. Maybe that's why he was speaking clearly – he had other things on his mind. Then again, as soon as he'd exited the gate he'd felt a surge of energy, almost as if he'd had a big cup of coffee or something similar. Suddenly, he felt great, at least physically.
With a little grin Janet continued. "Don't worry Colonel. I know you'll do just fine. Please, just tell me if you need anything or something doesn't feel right. If you promise me to do that, I'll promise not to watch you like a mother hen!"
Jack considered her for a moment and then gave a grin of his own.
"Deal Doctor. I'll tell you if I'm about the start drooling at the mouth or anything like that. Go on now, catch up to Daniel. We need to hurry."
"Yes Sir!", she turned on her heal and hurried after the younger man. So far, she was having a great time. It had been a long time since she'd been on a field mission and she appreciated the fact that the Colonel was allowing her to tag along (although she suspected he didn't really want her, he'd just thought it easier than arguing). Catching up to Daniel she gave him a smile and started asking him more questions about their previous time on Lyconia.
After a couple of hours they finally arrived at the village. From the looks of things, everything was fine so far with no evidence of Ba'al or any of his Jaffa. People were walking, doing business and generally acting as if it were a normal day like any other.
The three who had been here before did notice one difference however, and that was the fact that the rod that had been in the village square was gone and all evidence of it removed. They were working quickly, thought Jack.
As they grew near a shout could was heard. "Daniel, Teal'c, Jack – what are you doing back already. We did not think to see you again for a long time." Arman was hurrying to meet the visitors.
"Arman, hello. We didn't expect to be back so soon, either my friend, but there's something we have to tell you. Is there somewhere we can go to be private. We need to fill you in right away." Jack was able to get the words out quickly and clearly, much to everyone's surprise and his pleasure. God, it was good to be able to communicate properly again!
"Yes, of course. Come with me. We have been using Frotush' house as our headquarters. It is the largest house in the village and he no longer has need of it." This was said with a satisfied smile, although there was a touch of melancholy behind it. As much as Frotush deserved justice, Arman didn't like to see anyone suffer.
As he led the visitors from the gate to the house he turned and looked at Janet. "Where is Samantha and who is this lovely lady?", he asked.
Oooh, a charmer thought Janet. I wonder if he's taken? That question was almost immediately answered when a young woman rushed out towards them. Standing close beside Arman it was obvious they were a couple. Just her luck, all the good ones were taken!
"Teal'c, Jack, Daniel. What brings you here?" She was clearly happy about it as she had a big smile on her face.
"They have news for us Adia. I was bringing them back so we could talk."
"And who is this", Adia turned and smiled at Janet.
"This is Doctor Janet Frasier. She if our 'healer' and has come along to observe and help if needed. Sam has stayed behind working on some other things."
"Oh, that is too bad", Adia then turned quickly and smiled at Janet. "I do not mean that about you. We welcome you to Lyconia. I just meant we will miss Samantha."
"That's okay. I understand. I know she would have liked to be here but she also wanted to stay back with the children since they'reunfamiliar with their new home."
"Of course. It was hard on them to be separated before so it is good that she has stayed back. And Jack, what is this I hear? You are talking again so clearly. It sounds good my friend."
"Yeah – well it feels good, believe me. I guess it's the air here."
All the while they were talking Adia and Arman were leading the team into the house and into a room where a table filled with papers and documents was set up. Studying one of the papers was Pere Frotush. He looked up as everyone entered.
"Daniel! It is good to see you again so soon. What brings you here?", he then realized that Daniel wasn't alone so turned to the others. "And you Colonel O'Neill, Teal'c and where's my pretty Samantha? Although I must say this one is just as pretty."
Daniel laughed – the old devil was flirting! Where was Fulanna he wondered? Just as the thought entered his head the old woman walked into the room. He couldn't believe the transformation. Gone was the old crone and in her place was an elegant, middle-aged woman. Boy, what transformation a haircut and new clothes could give!
"Jak! What are you all doing here? We thought you had gone back to your home."
"They're just about to explain Fulanna, Pere. Why don't we all sit down and listen."
Following Arman's advice everyone found a place to sit and Jack proceeded to explain about Ba'al and what that could mean for Lyconia. By the time he was done everyone in the room was looking worried. This was something they hadn't expected and so soon after the defeat of Frotush! They were certainly not prepared to handle an alien invasion!
"What advice to you have for us Jack?", asked Arman.
"Well, if you could I'd suggest that you get everyone away and hide them in the forest. I don't think that's feasible, however. Not enough time. What you should do though is gather all the children and young men and women and get them out of here. Ba'al will be looking for hosts and he'll want to take any young, attractive people. The Goa'ulds are a finicky race – no old or less than good-looking hosts for them! So - get them to the forest – back to your old village. Hopefully they'll only need to be there for a short time."
"What of the rest of us?" Adia asked.
The older one's can stay and try and stay out of Ba'al way. Agree to whatever he says, except for telling him where the younger ones are hidden. He'll try to intimidate and he may even use force. Hopefully he won't try that right away. My team will be here, hidden, so can help where possible."
"What do you mean Jack when you say your team? What about you?" asked Daniel suspiciously.
"I'm going to the Hummers Daniel. I need to see if they can help. If they can, maybe we can defeat that two bit …. Snake!"
"O'Neill, let me come with you. You should not go alone."
"No Teal'c they need you here. You can't go into the cave anyway, not with Junior. I need you guys to stay here and help protect the Lyconians. This could get pretty nasty."
"What about me Colonel?" Janet asked. "Why don't I come with you? I can probably be of more help to you than here. My combat skills are a little rusty!"
He considered her for a moment and then nodded. It would be good to have someone else present and she was right, she wouldn't be too useful in a fight.
"Alright Doc. You're with me. Pere, can you gather everyone and explain what's happening and get the young people moving? Fulanna, you can help – they'll listen to the two of you. Arman, bring in some of your strongest, best fighters. We have to plan for a stealth attack. Gather any of the weapons that Frotush and his men had. We've also brought some things from our world and we'll explain how to use them. We don't have much time so we'll have to work fast."
Everyone stood up to get going, knowing that speed was essential – Ba'al could arrive at any time. As she headed out the door Fulanna stopped briefly by Jack. Putting her hand out she touched his cheek.
"It is good to hear you speak and to command Jak. This is clearly who you were meant to be. You are a good man, a strong man and I am glad you were not destroyed this past year by all that happened to you. Instead, I think you are stronger and have been given a great gift." With a smile and another pat on his cheek, Fulanna left.
Jack stood for a moment, thinking about what she had said. For the first time since he'd been through everything on Lyconia he felt as if things were going to be okay. She was right – he hadn't been destroyed. As horrible as this year had been, he'd survived. No, he'd more than survived – he had been victorious. With the help of the woman he loved, his children, his SG1 family and his new friends he'd been able to survive that awful road to hell he'd been forced to walk and had come out stronger.
He had gained something wonderful this year – yes, a new family, but also a sense of who he really was and who he wanted to be. The burden suddenly felt like it had been lifted from his shoulders. Oh, he was realistic and he knew he could still expect some nightmares ahead, but finally, he was on the road to recovery.
He glanced up at his three teammates who were all looking at him with concern. He simply grinned at them and gave a 'thumbs up' sign. Yup, Jack O'Neill was back in the saddle!
The others, including Janet, seemed to realize that something momentous had occurred. They weren't quite sure what it was, but they could see that Jack suddenly looked better. With a collective sigh, they all headed out to help the Lyconians.
By the time nightfall had come, all the younger villagers had left for the forest. Those who had not fled from the tyranny of Frotush, who had stayed safe in Lyconia, were frightened. Fortunately, there were a number who had lived in the forest. For once, they were the ones that were looked up to. They were the ones who were the leaders.
While Pere and Fulanna were organizing the young ones, the others were planning what to do to prepare for Ba'al. A number of the stronger men hid out in the forest just surrounding the town. Some hid in concealed basements and cubby holes. SG1 was surprised at how many of these there were. People had lived under a reign of terror with Frotush so many had built these in their homes to protect their goods and their families.
Daniel and Teal'c took up strategic positions in one of the hidden rooms in a larger home just off the village square. They would come out as a last resort if needed – a sort of 'secret weapon' if you will. They knew that if they were discovered it could cause more problems for the Lyconians - who knew what Ba'al would do if he thought SG1 were present. If needed though, they were there. They would do everything in their power to ensure the safety of their friends and the innocent people of this planet.
Once things were obviously in order in the village, Jack headed out with Janet to the cave. Giving a few last minute instructions he wished his team and friends good luck.
"Take care Jack. We'll watch things here. You too Janet – look after yourselves."
"We will Daniel, don't worry. You and Teal'c take care! I really don't want any new patients on this trip."
"Come on Doc. Let's go."
As he and Janet walked quickly through the forest he thought about what was going to happen when Ba'al arrived. He hated having to leave the Lyconians, and Daniel and Teal'c. If there had been any other way he wouldn't have done it. He felt like he was deserting his team and the whole village although realistically he knew he would be of greater help this way.
Worrying about what was happening in the village spurred him on to greater speed. Poor Janet was panting before long. Geesh, she thought, I figured I was in pretty good shape but the Colonel is going to kill me!
It wasn't until they'd walked another few minutes that Jack realized he was forcing a brutal pace. He glanced at Janet and saw that her face was bright red, she was sweating and breathing quickly.
"Gee, I'm sorry Doc. Why didn't you tell me to slow down?"
"I promised I wouldn't hold you up Sir", she panted "I know you need to get there quickly."
"Yeah – but I don't need to kill you in the process. Here, let's take 5 minutes." He glanced over and, seeing a fallen tree log, led her to it. He signaled that she should take a drink from her canteen and he did the same.
As they sat there Janet pulled an energy bar from her jacket and ripped the package open.
"Sir, you should have a snack." The truth was that Janet couldn't have felt less like eating. However, she wanted to keep Jack eating and knew this was the only way he'd agree.
He gave her a knowing look, but nodded and pulled a bar from his own pocket. He managed to force down a few bites but put it away long before it was finished.
Oh well, she thought. At least he had a little. Looking down at her half eaten bar she suddenly felt like she was going to gag so she put her's away as well.
"Sir, can you tell me a little more about the Hummers and what happened the last time you were here? We didn't get a chance to get that far in the briefing.
Not sure how much he should tell the doctor he gave her and 'abridged' version of events, downplaying his role in the whole thing. Halfway in the story he signaled that they should be going. This time he kept up a more reasonable pace.
"So, you're telling me that the Hummers are more powerful than the Ancients and they somehow were able to defeat Frotush and his forces through you? How did that work?"
"I think it was these marks. I think they acted something like a conduit. I'm not sure. All I know is is that they were able to defeat them."
"Do you still have any residual – power – from the Hummers."
"Not that I know of. There may be a little something lingering but I expect that I have to be close by for anything to work." Okay, a little while lie shouldn't hurt anyone, should it he thought.
"Look Janet, I don't really understand this whole thing. We didn't really have time to figure it out. All I know is is that if there's a chance to defeat Ba'al it's here. I just hope to God it works!"
"It will Sir. From what you've said these alien creatures seem to like you."
"Yeah", he grinned, "they're good guys! I think you'll like them too. I'm just sorry you're going to have to get wet!"
"Yeah – it's been awhile since I've done much swimming. Thank goodness it's a warm day."
The two officers continued to walk in silence after that, both filled with thoughts about what was going to happen when Ba'al arrived.
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We should be arriving at the planet in two hours my Lord. All has been prepared."
"Excellent!" Ba'al sat with a distracted look on his face, his hand steepled in front of him, thumbs touching his mouth. Drakor, his First Prime, stood silently, knowing it was dangerous to disturb his Lord when he was thinking. Suddenly, without warning, Ba'al sprang to his feet. Turning to Drakor he asked,
"Have we heard anything more from that little man Frotush?"
"No, my Lord. We have been trying to contact him but are getting no reply."
"Hmmm. That is strange. What did his last message say?"
"He said that he was taking his men and was going to destroy those who opposed him under the leadership of O'Neill."
"Oh my dear Frotush", Ba'al spoke softly to himself, although the First Prime stayed attentive. "I fear you have made a grave error. You thought you could defeat O'Neill but I expect he was too much for you! He needs someone much more powerful to defeat him!"
Turning to Drakor he looked surprised to see the man still standing there. All it took was a simple raised eyebrow for the man to start to sweat. He immediately bowed and backed from the room. He knew the hatred his Lord had for this O'Neill – he could not wait for him to defeat his enemy for ever since O'Neill's escape Ba'al had been like a lion with a sore tooth.
As the First Prime walked down the corridor he gave a fleeting thought to the human. He wouldn't want to be in his shoes!
sg1sg1sg1sg1sg1sg1sg1sg1
Sam had finally been given permission to leave the Mountain with the children. The General had warned her not to go too far until the children's status was finalized but he agreed underground was no place for them.
She had been extremely touched to learn that Hammond had asked for volunteers, shortly after SG1 disappeared, to look after their homes until they returned. There were so many volunteers that they had set up a roster, with someone new going every week to clean, maintain the yard, and simply ensure everything was safe. It showed the level of confidence everyone had had that SG1 would return!
This meant that she could return to a house that wasn't dirty or musty after having been shut up for a year. As she was driven home by an Airman she had a sudden thought – the children would probably prefer Jack's house. There were sure to be things there that reminded them of him which they would most likely find comforting. Also, his house was simply better suited for children, being larger and with a great yard.
It was as she was thinking this that it dawned on her – these children didn't really even know the meaning of 'house' other than their brief stay in the forest village. They had spent their entire, short lives, in caves.
With this thought she thanked God that they'd escaped the valley. Hopefully these children would never know such a life again.
After arriving at her house she took the children with her to her bedroom. Once there, she gathered a few things in a small suitcase. She knew the clothes would be a bit big but at least they were hers – and they weren't rags!
Grabbing Jack's spare keys (they all had a copy of each other's keys in case of emergency) and her car keys she headed out to where her car was parked in her small garage. Siler had already informed her that he had been over the day before and had put in two children's car seats so she was ready to go.
Strapping the children in, to the accompaniment of wails from Hannah who was frightened at being restrained, she headed over to Jack's house. Although she had told herself that it was for the children, the fact was she needed the comfort of being around his things every bit as much!
By the time they'd driven a little while the children were both quiet, fascinated by everything outside the windows of the car. Finally, they arrived at his warm and inviting house. She'd always thought it had the look of a cabin, rather than a house in the city.
As she opened the door, holding the children's hand, the first thing she noticed was that it still 'smelled' like Jack's place. There was something safe and warm – and very, very manly, about his place. She guided the children inside and told them to wait while she ran back to get her things.
The children stood silently, unsure of what to make of this new change. They couldn't figure out what anything was, not recognizing the furniture, lamps – and certainly not something like the TV.
Sam laughed to herself – they were soon to discover the joys of modern American life! She bet it wouldn't take long for them to adapt and to fall in love with whatever was the latest cartoon for children.
For now, however, she had to get them settled. She also had to get food and buy clothes and other items for them. She felt overwhelmed! Wormholes, aliens, evil System Lords – those things she knew how to handle! The dressing, eating and playing requirements of two toddlers felt like rocket science!
Just then, her cell phone rang. Both the children started and looked around, trying to figure our where the sound was coming from. When she lifted it to her mouth and started to speak their eyes grew big. Boy, they had a lot to learn!
It was Siler who was calling, asking if she needed help settling in. His wife, Maryann, had offered to take her shopping, figuring she'd need stuff for the children. He offered to babysit.
"Thank you Siler. That would be wonderful. No … I'm at Jack's house. Yeah – I figured it would be better for the children" (your nose is going to grow Sam!). "Right now? … Yes, that would be perfect. Thanks."
So, Siler and his wife were on their way over. She could get some groceries and supplies for the children. It was ironic, she had lived with them for months and yet had no idea what to feed them. There had been no choice – and not enough – in the valley. So now, she had to figure out what to provide for toddlers.
The children laughed in delight when Siler showed up. He was one of their favorite people! Sam explained that she'd be gone for a little while but they barely noticed, both riding on Siler's back as he crawled on the floor.
As she got in the car with Maryann it was the first time she had a moment to relax. She closed her eyes and instantly began worrying about Jack and the way they'd left things.
She still felt angry and hurt that he'd treated her the way he had. However, she also felt ashamed that she'd allowed those feelings to cause her to act childishly. She knew that if anything happened to him she would never forgive herself. Not saying goodbye had been silly and mean. Even though she'd felt legitimately angry, that should have waited until he returned. She sighed, knowing it was going to be hard not knowing what was happening on Lyconia.
"It's hard looking after toddlers", Maryann was driving them to the store but had left Sam a few minutes to relax.
"You can say that again. I feel like a complete idiot when it comes to the kids. I don't have the first clue what to buy."
"Oh, you'll figure it out quickly. It isn't difficult. You already have a wonderful relationship with them and that's most of the battle right there."
"I guess so. It's just that I never had to worry about cooking or shopping. Living in a cave didn't allow for a trip to Target!"
"I can't imagine what that must have been like. Siler has told me a little – you must have been very strong." Maryann worked part-time in the mountain as a nurse so had full clearance.
"Well, I had help. The people were wonderful, especially a couple of the women. Colonel O'Neill was also there and that helped too." Okay, that was carefully neutral!
Maryann looked at her curiously for a minute.
"Yes, the Colonel is an amazing man. He's also so good with children. Ours adore him."
"Oh, I didn't know he knew your kids."
"Oh yes. We often have the Colonel over for holidays and such – unless he's spending them with SG1. Now that he doesn't have any family, at least none close by, we like to have him over. The kids always love it. Although honestly, I don't know who is more the kid when he comes over – my three or Jack! Oh, sorry – he insists we call him that when he's off duty."
"That's fine. I'm sure he gets tired of being the Colonel all the time!"
"So, I hear he's the one that originally adopted the kids? Typical. They're attracted to him like the proverbial bees to honey! I've never met a man before who was such a natural at fatherhood, that's what makes his tragedy so much worse."
"I know. Every time I've seen him with a child I've thought the same thing. That's why it is so wonderful to see him with Hannah and Jon. They adore him and it's mutual!"
"I bet! Okay, here we are at the grocery store. Do you want help or would you rather do it on your own?"
"Oh, help please!"
She spent the afternoon with Maryann and was incredibly grateful for the woman's help. She also realized that she could easily become a good friend. They had a lot in common, even more now with the children. What really made it nice was that they both had clearance so didn't need to hide what they did or lie about it. That always made outside friendships difficult.
By the time Maryann had dropped her off and picked up her husband, Sam was dead on her feet. She hadn't had to do much shopping in the last few years and found herself exhausted by the endeavor. At least she'd managed to get a number of things for the kids.
As she entered Jack's house all she could hear was silence. Siler had managed to put the kids down for a nap – for which she was grateful. She looked in on them, both sleeping deeply in the guest bed. Siler had thoughtfully brought over some bed rails from home, figuring she hadn't had time to purchase proper beds for the children.
Gently kissing them on the cheeks Sam realized she wanted to sleep as well. At first she headed for the second guest room but then stopped and turned to Jack's bedroom. Somehow it felt wicked, but she didn't care. Kicking off her shoes and pulling her pants and shirt off, she climbed into his bed. As she burrowed her head into his pillow she almost imagined she could still smell him on it.
Her last thought, as she drifted off to sleep was, "be okay Jack and come back to us."