"Wow," Jack says softly, awestruck. "Would you look at those."
"I know, right?" Becky feels a quiet satisfaction. It doesn't take much to impress him these days.
They lean against the catwalk railing, staring out into the shadowy depths of a giant underground chamber easily the length of two football fields. Tall racks of weapons stretch out into the darkness, row upon row of what vaguely resembles Old Earth squids or jellyfish, albeit in a futuristic streamlined sort of way: three feet long with rounded yellow heads and small spikes jutting out to the rear, culminating in a silvery base with six long tendrils trailing behind.
Below them machines work on assembling the latest batch. No clue where the components are coming from but presumably they've been in storage for millenia, just waiting for the manufacturing program to be activated.
"You know, when you told me this morning you wanted some uncle-niece time I had no idea you were gonna show me something so cool."
"Huy-Braesealis told me the city was working on something, but had no idea what it was until yesterday. He thought you might want to see this."
"Thoughtful of him. So what did you call these earlier?"
"Arma pabula fucus. Drone weapons, basically. Apparently an automatic program implemented this as a contingency as soon as I accessed the chair for the first time."
"Gotta love those contingencies. We should have outings like this more often."
"Maybe we should." Becky looks askance at her uncle, studying his profile. Familiar rugged good looks, lines on his face comprised of laughter, concern and years of holding in secrets that don't need to be anymore. Brown hair fading quickly to silver. Left eyebrow bisected by a faint scar, one injury among many over the course of his long career in the Air Force.
He catches her looking, smirks. "Not too bad for an old guy, huh? Got anything else you wanna show me?"
"As a matter of fact, yes." Across the catwalk is a platform with a console and chair similar to those in the Astria emplacements. "Have a seat," keeping her voice as casual as she can. "Huy-Braesealis wants to say hi."
His brow furrows. "Why?"
"Because he thinks you ought to be in charge of the drones."
"And not you?"
She shrugs. "I'll have my hands full with the Astria. Besides, you're the one who's good at strategy and tactics. Sit down already. It won't hurt."
"Easy for you to say," he mutters but sits anyway. The chair lights up and tilts him back. She wonders if Daniel's ever felt this anxious when she goes under.
A sudden noise behind her makes her jump. One of the nearby drones glides out of its hexagonal cradle to face her, forward section glowing a soft yellow. It approaches her, forcing her to retreat until she finds herself bumping against the railing.
It nudges gently against her, tendrils waving slightly in the cool air. Looking for all the world like a cat wanting to be petted.
She gives an awkward pat to the surprisingly warm surface. "Um, good kitty?"
As if satisfied it backs away and slots neatly back in its cradle, going inert.
The lights on the chair turn off, raising Jack to a sitting position. His eyes open and he smirks at her, eyes twinkling in mischief.
She folds her arms and glares at him. "Not funny."
"Really? Not even a little? Thought it was pretty cute myself."
"Not even a little. So how was your chat?"
"Not bad. Might've been imagining things but he kinda sounds like your dad."
"Yeah, I noticed. Guess he picked it up from my mind during the initial contact. So he filled you in on the specs?"
Jack stands up and stretches. "Oh, yeah. Showed me a simulation and everything. These suckers pack more punch than any ballistic missile I've ever seen. Real sweet. Lots more precise than the aktina, too."
"Which makes sense, considering that system was intended for defense only. These are more for offense than anything else."
"I like that, shield and sword. Good thing ol' Huey-Braiser is on our side, huh?"
"That's Huy-Braesealis," she corrects him absently.
"Always a stickler for detail, aren't ya?"
"Details are important," she informs him in an arch manner. They grin at each other.
And then the absurdity of it all hits like a ton of bricks. So much so she starts to laugh, with a note of hysteria.
He raises a quizzical eyebrow. "Hey, you okay? I mean, you're not goin' nuts on me or anything, are ya?"
"Might as well be, all things considered. Three years ago I was happily working for the Phoenix Foundation, and my biggest concerns were if Mac would ever pop the question to Nikki Carpenter and what you'd do with yourself when you retired from the Air Force for good. Now I'm living on a different planet somewhere in the Milky Way and taking part in its defense, just by sitting in a chair and thinking about it."
"Does sound pretty wacko, when you put it that way."
"You said it. Never once imagined it'd happen to me for real, you know? That I'd be part of something bigger, even on a cosmic scale."
"Believe me, I know exactly what you mean. Gotta admit you've taken to all this a lot better than I expected. I'm real proud of you, Beck." He kisses her on the forehead and she flushes as usual at the praise.
Talk about weird. A well-earned family reputation for being notoriously reticent yet here they are, having what amounts to a heart-to-heart deep below a city thousands of years old.
Ironic that it's taken living on another planet and participating in its defense alongside to get to know him better. She's heard the rumors around the base, classified things he did before the Stargate Program that make even the most battle-hardened Marines look at him obliquely.
The awe in their voices not all that dissimilar to how those at the Phoenix Foundation spoke of Mac's talent for improvisation and his luck at survival, now she thinks of it.
Becky's proud of their accomplishments but at the same time grateful she knows them differently, as the sweetheart uncles who cheered her up and provided endless comfort and support when she needed it most. They still know her better than anyone else, including Daniel. And they love her anyway.
In return she's become fluent in reading the various flavors of their stoicism (the more distant or closed-off, the worse the physical or emotional pain) and keenly aware she's one of the precious few to be granted access beyond their self-imposed shields, as if entrusted with part of their souls. Even though it might be because she's the sole blood relative left, it's nevertheless an honor. She tries hard not to betray that trust.
These days people are speaking of her in the same fashion, calling her Witness and Lady of the Tower (her beloved raven can't keep a secret) with reverence in their voices, like she's especially blessed or something. For the life of her she can't figure out why, since both times were the result of pure happenstance.
All she's ever wanted is to live a quiet, peaceful life on a new world, working behind the scenes while others save the day. It's not like she asked to be saddled with a Destiny, for crying out loud.
Strange universe they live in, without a doubt.
"Lost in your thoughts again, huh?"
She blinks in surprise, looking up at Jack's knowing smirk. "Um, yeah. Sorry."
"It's okay. I'm used to it with Danny. Really appreciate the outing, Beck, but we oughta get back to base now. Man, the General's gonna be tickled pink when he hears about this. We need all the help we can get against Anubis once his fleet gets here."
"Do we ever. Gotta get to work on a whole lot of translating, anyway. And I need to fortify myself with cake before tonight's council meeting. Especially if Williams is gonna be there."
"The guy behind the Witness Society thing?"
"Yeah, a real nutjob. Gives me the creeps."
"So all that talk's not going to your head then, huh?"
She makes a face. "God, no. I don't mind people believing as they please, but I'd really rather it didn't involve me. You'd think folks have better things to do than worship me as some sort of prophet or savior, you know?"
"I hear ya, kiddo. It's sad but some are used to seeking irrational explanations or solutions to their problems instead of relying on their own common sense. Can't tell you how many civilizations I've seen out there convinced the Goa'uld are literally gods just because of their glowing eyes and impressive tech."
"I bet. Reminds me of a quote by Arthur C. Clarke."
"You mean the one that goes, 'Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic'?"
Becky smirks, tilting her head up. "You know something, Uncle Colonel? You're smarter than you look."
He puts a finger to his lips and winks. "Let's keep it between ourselves, okay? Wouldn't be good for my reputation if word ever got out, you know."
She chortles softly, patting him on the arm. "Don't worry, your secret's safe with me. I know you enjoy playing the dumb flyboy."
"Pretty perceptive yourself, for my favorite niece."
"I better be." As dry as Jack himself can get, though her lips twitch in amusement.
He laughs and gives her hair an affectionate ruffle. "C'mon, let's get outta here."
"So in conclusion, sir," Major Alvarez says at the council meeting, "the emergency shelters are ready to use in case of attack or natural disaster, barring a few refinements here and there."
"Thank you for your report, Major," Hammond says from his seat. "That's excellent news. Is there any other new business?" Silence greets his words. "Then I declare this meeting adjourned. We'll reconvene in one month, barring any significant developments. Thank you for your attendance." He bangs the gavel on the table.
Becky stands and stretches, looking forward to nothing more than a hot shower, late supper and some serious cuddling time in bed with her beloved archaeologist.
A stirring from within, unusual after being dormant for months.
~Domina? I'm detecting an issue with the aspida.~
What is it?
~The potentia in the southwest emplacement has been losing energy at an unexpected rate for a month now and is nearly depleted.~
Great. All this time keeping them safe and now this.
Will it explode?
~No. But the aspida is about to deactivate, as a safety measure.~
There aren't any redundancies in place to keep the shield active during repairs? How is that possible?
~I regret there are none, Domina. I did inform you the system had never before been tested. The designers had no idea this would become a possibility.~
Yes, you did. And I failed to take it under consideration. I'm sorry.
~No apology necessary. I recommend bringing Major Carter or Dr. McKay with you, as either one has the technical knowledge to perform a repair. You will also need to bring another potentia with you. I can have one manufactured if you like. ~
No, I know where we have a spare. That'll save me an extra trip. Thank you anyway.
~Of course.~ A pause. ~Domina, the aspida is now deactivating.~
Shouts of surprise and alarm from outside the building.
Becky sighs. Talk about timing.
All right, I'll see if I can get Sam to come with me in the morning. Thank you for alerting me.
~At your service, Domina.~
"Dr. Grahme. A moment of your time, please?"
Becky steels herself before turning to face the one man she's been trying to ignore throughout the evening. The Rev. Stuart Williams, florid and pot-bellied with a receding hairline. Former minister of a suburban church outside of Colorado Springs, who apparently underwent a religious conversion after hearing her speak at the Memorial.
A perpetual pain in the neck, not to put too fine a point on it.
"Reverend Williams." She always tries to keep her tone formal and distant, in the hopes of discouraging him. It never works.
"I was hoping you might say a few words at the Witness Society meeting next restday. It would be a shame if another opportunity passes by without reaping the benefits of your wisdom." The ingratiating tone makes her stomach churn.
"Look, for the last time I have absolutely no interest nor desire to participate in anything you've got set up. I happened to become Witness by pure chance, nothing more. It doesn't make me any sort of prophet."
Williams' unctuous smile and the fanatical light in his eyes set her teeth on edge. "Divinity moves in mysterious ways, my dear. You've been granted a vision, like the prophets of Old Earth. I have faith all will be revealed in due time. Good evening, Dr. Grahme."
Becky resists the impulse to splutter as he strolls off. The guy's absolutely nuts.
"I see what you mean about giving you the creeps." Jack comes up to her, hands casually in pockets. He'd been shadowing Hammond during the meeting, and she envies the way he'd managed to look both interested and bored at the same time. Obviously a talent he'd acquired over the course of many briefings.
She'll have to ask him to teach her the knack, one of these days.
"You don't know the half of it. Hey, can I borrow Sam and one of the Jumpers for a while in the morning?"
"Don't see why not. What's going on?"
"Apparently there's something wrong with the southwest emplacement."
He frowns a little but doesn't ask how she knows. Smart man. "Noticed the shield was down. That's the one McKay had trouble with during initialization, right?"
"Yeah. I need Sam to check out the console."
"Sure. I'll let her know."
"Thanks. Make sure she brings the spare full-power ZPM she's got in the lab along with the toolkit and computer and meet me at the Jumper pad around 0930, okay?"
He cocks his head, amused. "You sure like giving orders these days, don't ya?"
"I learned from the best," she quips lightly. "Don't worry, I'll make sure Aunt Sam gets back to you safe and sound."
"Now Beck, you know she's not your aunt." Jack says it sternly but with a decided twinkle in his eye.
"Not yet, anyway." She smirks right back at him and he chuckles.
"Mind if I tag along?"
"Nah, you don't have to. Shouldn't take us long, anyway. What you ought to do is stay here and study up on swarming behavior, to control those drones effectively. Now escort me home, Colonel, if you please."
He grins, offering his arm. "Yes, ma'am."
"McKay didn't do too bad a job, all things considered," Sam comments, her voice echoing from deep within the console. "Though a few wires are still crossed here and there. Luckily there wasn't a power surge during the testing phase."
"I'll refrain from pointing that out next time I see him," Becky dryly remarks. "He'd go ballistic if he knew you had to fix one of his quick fixes."
"Oh yeah, it'd be like correcting one of his equations. He'd have a heart attack for certain."
"Can't believe he called you a dumb blonde once. That must've made you mad."
"I'm used to it, unfortunately. Some men can't help but feel threatened by both my intellect and the fact I'm a woman in the military with a successful career as an officer. Believe me, I've faced off against far worse than Rodney McKay's insults."
"I just hate the thought of others putting you down despite all your accomplishments."
"That's just the way it is, Becky. I try not to take it too personally."
"I don't think I could, if I were in your shoes. I mean, it's not only the insults that bother me, but also the ignorance and small-mindedness behind them, you know? Good thing we've got a second chance to ensure that doesn't happen any more to anyone else."
"Absolutely. We can always hope for better." Sam pulls away from the console, closes the lid and replaces the depleted ZPM with the fully-loaded spare from the lab. The console lights up and she consults her laptop. "Looks good so far, I think we've got it. Why don't you see if you can reactivate the shield from here?"
"Sure." She sits in the chair, slipping into a familiar receptive state.
Nothing.
Huy-Brasealis? she inquires within.
~Apologies, Domina. I regret to inform you the aspida can only be reactivated from the primary control chair.~
Understood. Thank you.
~At your service, Domina.~
"Any luck?" Sam asks when Becky opens her eyes.
"Nope. Can't do it from here. We'd better get to the city."
"Right." Sam collects her toolkit.
Becky picks up the carrying case for her, now containing the depleted ZPM. Once outside the emplacement she pauses to take in the view of the valley from the landing ledge.
The southern edge of the settlement is just barely visible off to the northwest, farms scattered here and there around it. The Hammond River leisurely wending its way through the center, the eastern range a dim smudge in the distance.
Reminds her powerfully of the valley where she grew up in Oregon. Probably why she feels more at home on this alien planet than most, even after three years of acclimation.
There's a touch of warmth in the air as well, native flora and fauna showing signs of life after their winter dormancy. Spring on New Earth.
Almost time for the Awakening festival in a week, akin to the Lunar New Year back on Old Earth. Nice to have something to celebrate after months of cold and dark. Should be fun.
"Nice day, huh?"
"Sure is. Thanks for coming with me. I like spending time with my favorite future aunt," grinning at her.
Sam chuckles. "Don't get your hopes up. I mean, I really enjoy being with Jack and all but we're not talking marriage anytime soon. Besides, what about Janet?"
"Her, too. Nothing says I can't have two favorite aunts, right? Hopefully Mac will work up the nerve one day to pop the question. And if Jack ever does-"
"You'll be the first to know, I promise."
"Thanks. I just want you guys to be happy, that's all. You're so good for each other. I'm really looking forward to you being my aunt as well as a friend."
Sam gently squeezes her shoulders in a little hug. "I'm looking forward to having you as a niece too. Now let's head to the city and get the shield back up."
"Absolutely. Jack said he'll hide both the blue and green jellos if I don't have you back on base by lunchtime."
"We'd better hurry then. That's a serious threat, coming from him. Remind me to tell you sometime about an AI on P4X-884 who got us to do some crazy things, like eat every dessert on base."
"Name of Urgo, right? Bet he drove you guys right up the wall."
"Oh, you've no idea..."
Uncle-niece bonding is important. But so is spending quality time with a prospective aunt, too.
The Jumper's three-quarters across the valley when the radio crackles to life. "Base to Jumper One. Jumper One come in, please."
Her hands busy at the controls, Sam nods at Becky in the copilot's seat to answer. "Jumper One here."
"What's your location, Jumper One?"
"En route to the city, to finish repairs on the shield."
"Change of plans, Jumper One. Return to base immediately. Repeat, return immediately. Direct order from General Hammond."
"Copy that, base. On our way." She shares an uneasy look with Sam, who shrugs and obediently turns the shuttlecraft away from the mountains.
A sudden shiver tickles along Becky's spine. This is it. Anubis and his fleet are here.
If only they could've gotten the shield up first.
The conference room's packed. Jack has no idea why the General's called this urgent meeting with everyone but his gut feeling says he should cancel his fishing trip with Mac in the afternoon.
Daniel comes up beside him, followed by Teal'c. Becky and Carter appear in the doorway, regarding the room with thinly-veiled apprehension.
Jack waves them over. "Got the shield working yet?"
"Yes and no," Becky grimly replies. "The console's working fine but apparently it can't be reactivated from the emplacement, only the main control chair. We were on our way to the city when the call came in. What's going on?"
"We'll soon find out," nodding over at Hammond by the doorway talking to an aide before coming to his customary place at the head of the table, briskly acknowledging everyone's salutes and nods.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he begins without preamble, "a short time ago Goa'uld vessels have been detected emerging from hyperspace near the edge of the solar system. At their current speed we should be expecting the first wave of attack within the next few hours."
A ripple of unease throughout the room. He lifts his hand and it subsides. "We've known this day would come for some time. There are already procedures in place and you've all participated in countless drills for this contingency."
Sam raises her hand. "Sir, what about the Prometheus?"
"As far as we know it's en route from Alpha Base via hyperspace. Until it arrives we'll have to depend solely on what defenses we have immediately to hand."
"What about the shield, sir?" another voice calls out. "It's been down since last night. We've all noticed."
Becky flushes slightly and looks down at the floor, as if it were her fault somehow.
"Our liaison with the city has that well in hand," he says smoothly. "Everyone report to their assigned duty stations to begin final preparations. I am confident we can meet this challenge as we have with every other we've faced before and after Zero Hour, with courage and a determination to protect our new home with everything that's in us. Dismissed."
As the rest of the room disperses he gestures Jack and Becky over. Carter, Daniel and Teal'c hang back with varying expressions of curiosity. "Dr. Grahme, how soon can you get the shield back online?"
"As soon as I can get to the city and in the control chair, sir."
"And you have control of the drone weapons, is that right Colonel?"
"Yes, sir."
"Very well. Please head for the city with the rest of your team in all due haste. It is vital we have those defenses in place when the fleet arrives." An airman comes up to him with a clipboard. "Good luck, both of you," he adds in dismissal before turning to the business at hand.
"O'Neill," Teal'c says unexpectedly. "I would like to stay behind and assist in the defense of the base."
"Fine by me if you think you can do more good here than with us, T. Let me tell ya though, you don't know what you're missing."
"I can surmise. I would merely be a superfluous circular object, of no immediate usefulness."
Becky bites her lower lip in an effort not to giggle. "I think you mean a spare wheel."
"Indeed."
Jack can't help but smirk. "C'mon, the rest of you. Let's suit up."
A klaxon wails and the PA crackles to life. "Your attention please. This is General-Governor Hammond. An invasion force is inbound to New Earth. Noncombatants and their families should seek the nearest underground shelter and remain there until given the all-clear. This is not a drill. Repeat, invasion is imminent, seek shelter immediately."
Personnel trade uneasy glances but remain oddly composed. MacGyver wonders just how often they've experienced life-or-death situations back under Cheyenne Mountain for this to be nothing new.
He's surprised he's not panicking himself, being his first alien invasion and all. Instead he feels the same frisson of excitement and readiness for anything that always preceded a Phoenix or DXS assignment.
As if deep down he's finally accepted the whole crazy sci-fi premise that's become his life in the past few years.
An air of controlled chaos pervades the base as personnel resume making their preparations. In each corner of the main compound Marines set up sandbags around temporary emplacements containing ground-to-air rocket launchers and the like, in case one of those death gliders ventures too close to the hangar containing the all-important Gate.
Becky, Jack, Sam and Daniel emerge from a door, suited up and mission-ready. Teal'c follows behind without his own kit for once.
Mac jogs over to meet them. "You guys heard the news?"
Jack nods. "On our way to the city now."
"Need backup or anything?"
"Nope. We're good, thanks." A brotherly clap on the shoulder. "You're better off here, especially if something's gotta be invented in a hurry. Besides, Jan could probably use some help in the infirmary once casualties start coming in."
"Good point." Not like he's willing to carry a weapon anyway, invasion or no.
A sudden flash of light and a figure appears in the middle of the compound draped head to toe in black robes, only a dark, featureless void under the hood where a face would normally be.
One of the nearby Marines lunges forward in a foolish effort to grab him but winds up hitting the dirt for his trouble. Must be a projection.
"I am Anubis," the figure announces. "Humans of the Ta'uri, your end of days finally approaches."
"Hate to break it to ya," Jack mutters, "but been there, done that and we're still alive and kicking."
"There will be no mercy," Anubis drones on. "You will bow to my awesome power. There is nothing that can stop the destruction I bring upon you. Prepare to meet your doom." The image disappears.
If anything the pronouncement only encourages people to work faster. No time for fear and panic now.
Jack snorts. "For crying out loud. Is the guy a living cliché or what? Let's get goin'. The sooner we can shut him up for good the better."
Mac can only watch as they dash off in the direction of the Jumper landing pad. After giving him a quick hug Becky easily catches up with them, matching their longer strides despite her shorter legs.
If there's anything he's proudest of in his life it's her. There's no denying she's equal to any challenge put in front of her, and he had a hand in making that happen. He feels a warm satisfied glow at the thought.
"You should be rightfully proud of your che'sula, MacGyver," Teal'c says beside him. "She possesses a warrior's spirit though she walks the path of a scholar. Much like Daniel Jackson and yourself."
He grins at the Jaffa. "You bet I'm proud. C'mon, let's see what we can do around here to lend a hand."
The flight's conducted in silence save for significant looks shared with each other from time to time, volumes communicated without uttering a single word.
For which Becky's grateful, her stomach as tied up in knots as it is. She no longer harbors doubts of her competency in dangerous situations, nor of her place within the SGC. What bothers her now is the knowledge that the four of them in this one small ship might be all that makes the difference between victory and defeat, for their settlement in particular and the galaxy as a whole. If they can't stop Anubis in his tracks no one can.
About halfway to the city the Jumper comes under attack, shaking with the impact of every hit. Three roughly crescent-shaped fighters hover into view.
Goa'uld death gliders.
Jack curses. "Carter, get shields up and weapons online."
In the co-pilot's seat Sam pushes buttons, flips switches. "Fire when ready, sir."
One explodes in a most satisfying manner. Becky feels like cheering.
The return hits are mercifully absorbed by the shields, but not without more rattling.
"Mind getting us to the city in one piece, Jack?" Daniel's knuckles are as white as hers from gripping the sides of his chair.
"Don't you know by now I hate back-seat drivers, Danny? Hang tight kids, I'll shake 'em off." A series of turns and dives above the river leave Becky reeling. She'd be losing her lunch and then some if it weren't for inertial dampeners provided by the Asgard.
Two gliders remain, keeping pace despite Jack's best efforts. The Jumper rocks with one well-placed blast.
"That took out our shields, sir."
"And I'm out of ammo, too. Dammit!"
Becky swallows, sharing a concerned look with Daniel. He reaches for her hand, squeezes. She squeezes back. That will have to do for I love you, if they don't make it.
Not likely they will at this rate anyway, as vulnerable as they've become despite Jack's evasive maneuvers. More shots like that and they're done for.
From out of nowhere two F-302s swoop down behind the gliders, blasting them out of the sky. "Never fear, the Snakeskinners are here!" Mitchell's gleeful voice comes over the radio.
Becky could kiss him right now, even with her beloved sitting nearby.
"But you're with the Prometheus!" Sam exclaims. "It must have just emerged from hyperspace."
"You better believe it. Engaging the enemy as we speak."
"Sweet. Any more on our tail, Mitchell?"
"Three more gliders and an Al'kesh on the radar. Don't worry Colonel, we'll keep 'em away from you."
"Appreciate it."
"Blue Two to Blue Leader." Lorne's voice on the radio. "The gliders and the Al'kesh have veered off to the west. They must be headed for the base."
"Dammit. Quit lollygagging and get outta here, Mitchell. Don't let 'em near the place!"
"Copy that, sir. Good luck in the city." The F-302s do identical barrel rolls to the left and veer off.
"Showoffs," Jack grumbles good-naturedly. "All right campers, landing in five minutes. Let's hit the ground running."
The tower doors open at Becky's proximity without her even having to touch and murmur the password (a new development, but one she barely notices). They hurry through the corridors and into the central atrium, only pausing long enough to catch their breaths.
"Get that shield back up quick as you can," Jack says before they split off. "I'll release the drones soon as you say it's good."
"Will do." On impulse she gives Sam and Jack a swift hug each. "Good luck, both of you."
He drops a swift kiss on the top of her head. "You too, kiddo. Danny-"
"I know, Jack. Look after her or you'll kill me." Almost fondly.
"Got it in one. See ya later."
Becky winces at the distant sounds of aerial battle outside as they enter the control room, imagining the collateral damage done on both sides in the attempt to keep the gliders away from the settlement.
The long-awaited invasion is here. Everything could be lost at any moment, despite their best efforts.
If ever there was a time to be brave, it's now.
Yet before she sits in the chair there are things she must tell her beloved before it's too late.
Like how very much she loves him. How she can't live without him. How she wants to marry him someday, raise a family, grow old together.
"Daniel?"
"Hmm?"
She opens her mouth but nothing comes out. They've never talked about their future yet (if there is one), and she's afraid he's not ready to hear what she has to say.
Fortunately actions speak louder than words.
She settles for grabbing the collar of Daniel's jacket, tugging him down to her level, covering his mouth with hers for a long and deep kiss. His eyes widen in momentary surprise then he returns it with equal fervor, arms wrapping around to hold her tight. The urgency of the situation, the underlying fear only makes it hotter.
Reluctantly they pull apart, breathing heavily.
"I..." she swallows, tries again, "I just want to say..."
"I know. Me, too." A gentle kiss to her forehead. "Ready?"
"Ready."
She sits and closes her eyes. The chair leans her back.
Time to get to work.
Contact.
Huy-Braesealis?
~Ave, Domina.~
What's the status of the southwest emplacement now?
~Fully functioning. Ready to engage Astria on your order.~
Then do so.
~Firing laser. The system is now primed and ready.~
She reaches out, just like during initialization-
-finds Jack in the other chair, awaiting orders.
Testing, testing. One, two, three. Hey, is this thing on?
I hear you, Jack. Are the drones ready to go?
Barely keeping 'em restrained as it is. Just let me know when to let go of the leash, and the sooner the better.
Understood.
Two minds are better than one for this task, but it's not enough.
She reaches for two adjacent minds, linking them together, holding on with fierce intensity, even so not enough-
-until one more element is added to the mix.
Huy-Braesealis?
~Connection complete, Domina. The fleet is moments away from orbiting the planet. Soon the first wave of fighters will cross the boundary between outer space and the upper atmosphere.~
What do you think I should do, Jack?
Your call, Beck. Raise the shield or release the drones. You're in charge.
Gee, thanks for reminding me. Huy-Braesealis, activate aspida.
~Yes, Domina.~
No need to see out the window this time. They can recall the star outlined in beams of shimmering blue light, expanding upwards into a clear dome.
Just in time, too.
Death gliders rapidly descend from the upper atmosphere, firing staff cannons in their strafing runs. The aspida performs just like in the test, absorbing the energy generated by the attack and strengthening itself with replenished reserves at the same time. Several even dive bomb the shield in the hopes of damaging it head on, only to explode on impact.
Will you look at that! Thing of beauty, I tell ya.
We're not out of the woods yet, sir. More gliders and Al'kesh coming in the second wave, along with the first of the Ha'taks.
The shield holds steady as the invasion redoubles their efforts, until an Al'kesh unexpectedly crashes into the western mountain range and it flickers.
Not a good sign.
Huy-Braesealis? What happened?
~The ship crashed not far from the northwest emplacement, Domina.~
Any survivors? Is the emplacement all right?
~No survivors, Domina. Minimal damage sustained to the emplacement, though the aspida remains intact for now.~
Sure rattled the shield, though. Let's hope no one else has the same idea.
A second crash by the southeast emplacement, another flicker.
You and your big mouth, Jack. Any suggestions, guys?
~Domina, the power stored in the emplacements is almost depleted and potentia levels are decreasing rapidly. It will not hold for much longer, and I fear no reserves will remain even for aktina mode if it is not deactivated soon.~
He's right, Becky. Dropping the shield and releasing the drones is our best option.
Agreed, Sam. Huy-Braesealis, deactivate aspida and activate the arma pabula fucus.
~Yes, Domina.~ The shield winks out. ~Armas are awaiting orders to launch.~
Through the AI and Jack she senses the drones in their cradles, active and fully energized. Ready to fulfill their purpose.
You're the sword, Jack. Fire away. Do be sure to avoid anything belonging to us, okay?
Yes, ma'am. Launching 100 drones...200...300...400...500 away. Multiple targets.
~Domina, I can provide an exterior view if you would like to see their progress.~
Please do.
A constant stream of drones- half-transparent, glowing golden from within- emerge from concealed underground shafts around the tower, streaking upwards-
-deftly avoiding the Prometheus and the F-302s-
-piercing the invading fleet, hitting their targets with precision only a trained pilot can achieve-
-cutting the enemy fleet to shreds by filling every nook and cranny-
-then exploding simultaneously.
Sweet!
Next wave approaching, sir.
Got it, Carter. Launching 500 more. Man, look at 'em go.
You're enjoying this way too much, Jack.
You bet, Danny. This is so cool!
~Colonel, I must remind you it will take the city many months to manufacture replacements if you continue to launch them at this rate.~
Darn it, H-B. You take all the fun out of this.
~I merely advise a pragmatic approach, Colonel. And my name is Huy-Braesealis.~
{smirking} Sorry. My mistake. Carter, what's our status?
The majority of the fleet's been decimated, sir. Only a few ships remain. There's one Ha'tak holding back, though. Coming into range now.
Must be Anubis. Right, the Prometheus and the F-302s can take care of the mop-up. Beck, time to break out the space ray.
Got it. Should I open fire now?
Not just yet. Wait for it...
In slow, stately fashion the Ha'tak approaches the planet.
Wait for it...
Inexorable. Inevitable.
Now.
Huy-Braesealis, activate aktina.
~Yes, Domina.~
The beams of light come together as before, shooting upwards through the atmosphere towards the mothership in orbit-
-where Anubis has been watching in disbelief as his entire fleet is utterly destroyed by the unexpected combination of swift Tau'ri ships and powerful Ancient weaponry-
-sending him a simple, forceful message before impact:
This is our world now, our home. You are not welcome here. Be gone!
Detonation.
The tower rocks top to bottom with the force of the massive resulting shockwave over their heads. Strong enough to knock Jack, Sam and Daniel out of the link.
Huy-Braesealis, what's our status?
A brief moment of panic as the AI's presence in her mind blanks out.
Huy-Braesealis? Are you there? Answer me!
Darkness. Darkness and silence.
Huy-Braesealis, what happened? Are you okay? Speak to me, please!
The shimmer reappears in her mind, amber and russet and pale gold.
She breathes a sigh of relief. Thank goodness. Are you all right?
~My apologies, Domina. The impact briefly disrupted my functions but I was able to reboot. I am better now.~
I'm glad. What's the status on both systems?
~All the emplacements remain intact, though they require fresh potentias before resuming operation. It will also take time to manufacture more of the armas. Something unexpected has occurred with the reset, however. A file heretofore hidden in a minor directory has just presented itself with an urgent flag for your immediate access.~
...You mean it wants to download itself into my mind? I don't like the sound of that much. Is it safe? No Trojan horses or anything?
~Horses...? Ah, I see the references in your mind. I understand your concern, Domina. It has been scanned for hidden traps or viruses and there are none. You will waken as soon as the download is complete. It will take time to process the data, but only on an unconscious level.~
And I need to see this information because...?
~I believe you and your people will find it interesting, perhaps even useful as a contingency plan. Trust me, Domina. You will come to no harm.~
All right. Go ahead.
Even as the download begins she has the sudden premonition something big is happening at the settlement, though for good or ill she cannot tell.
She can only hope everyone's okay.
Dodging strafing fire, Mac springs in the direction of one of the compound emplacements, rolling against the sandbags to hide from the latest barrage. Winces as his knees ache with the impact.
Times like these he wishes he had a younger and more resilient body. Not long ago he'd thought his adventuring days far behind him. Go figure.
Janet's squatting nearby, tending to a Marine's leg and sending him off on a stretcher to the infirmary before turning to the next casualty for triage. Definitely not combat-shy, though he secretly harbors misgivings about her willingness to serve in the line of fire. But then he'd worry about her even if they weren't romantically involved.
"Hurry up, Mac," Ferretti says, kneeling beside him. "Gotta get that thing workin' before we're toast."
"Yeah, got it." He pulls out his Swiss Army Knife, gets to work on unfreezing the jammed tripod stand for what they call a staff cannon. After some finagling it pivots freely once more.
"Thanks." Ferretti takes hold of the weapon, fires at the Al'kesh hovering overhead. It retreats after being damaged from two shots with the staff cannon, but not before dropping down three horizontal rings, a Goa'uld transporter. Three figures in black armor appear in a flash of light and immediately begin firing once the rings depart, their weapons emitting energy beams into the compound.
Ferretti curses. "Kull warriors. Great, just what we need."
"Come again?"
"Shock troops for Anubis. Saw one without its helmet once, ugly pale fella. Gave me the creeps." The major turns to his SG-2 teammates hunkered down nearby. "Okay guys, we got those special rounds to deal with these suckers, so let's put 'em to good use."
One dies in a hail of bullets, the second not long after. The remaining warrior feints in the direction of Janet, who's just standing up with her back to him, oblivious to the weapon carelessly aimed at her-
Janet!
Without sparing a thought for his own danger Mac sprints to her side, knocking her to the ground and out of the line of fire. The energy beam glances off his left shoulder, a searing burn.
"Do not worry, MacGyver. I will defend you and Doctor Fraiser." Teal'c steps forward, raises his staff weapon. "Major Ferretti, if you will assist?"
"You got it." A combination of bullets and well-placed energy blasts shorts out his armor and puts the warrior down for good.
"Um, Mac?" Janet's voice is muffled. "Usually I love it when you're on top but I can't breathe."
"Sorry." Leaning heavily on his uninjured arm he scoots up and away from her, gritting his teeth at the pain in his shoulder.
Her eyes widen. "You've been hit!"
"It's nothing. I'm fine." Almost by reflex, his wince putting the lie to his words.
She frowns. "That's not nothing, Mac. Sometimes you're too much like your brother. Let me see," getting to a kneeling position to better examine the wound and pulling on fresh gloves. He gasps as she gently prods. "Must've just glanced off of you. No worse than a second-degree burn."
With his other hand he gingerly fingers the burnt edges of the fabric, frowning. "Still hurts like heck."
"It will for a while. Even so you're lucky. Energy weapons can be nasty." She rummages in her bag, takes a pad of gauze from her medkit and secures it over the wound with paper tape. "I'll check it out more carefully when I can get you to the infirmary but this will have to do for now. The bandage will have to be changed every day. That means a lot of house calls, I'm afraid," giving him a cheeky grin and a wink.
"Good thing you know where I live then, huh?"
A familiar faint rippling shimmer appears in the sky. Gliders and Al'kesh descend from the upper atmosphere, their attempts thwarted by the impenetrable shield.
"Looks like Becky and Jack made it," Janet remarks.
"And just in time, too." Mac grins in relief, the pain of his shoulder momentarily forgotten. "I knew they could do it."
After enduring several waves the shield abruptly disappears. Then a stream of golden sparks shoots upwards from the mountains to the east, deftly avoiding their own ships but decimating what remains of the enemy fleet.
Ferretti grins. "Talk about a light show, huh? Beautiful."
Even as he hates war and destruction Mac can only agree. If it weren't for those Ancient weapons at their disposal- and his own brother and niece at the controls- the settlement would be a crater by now.
One by one the last few ships are destroyed. A few moments of stillness, then the sky darkens as a immense pyramidal ship briefly blocks out the sun.
Mac swallows. He's seen images of Ha'taks before, though never one in person until now. It's terrifying.
A massive blue beam shoots straight up into the sky. The Ha'tak explodes in a bright burst of actinic light.
Stunned silence prevails before the entire settlement reverberates with the sounds of celebration.
"They did it," Janet breathes. "We're safe now."
Mac slips his uninjured arm around her shoulders, smiling down at her. "Yeah we are, aren't we?"
She beams at him. God, she's amazing. Gorgeous, vivacious and brilliant. Fearless in the face of danger. Kind and compassionate. He's never known anyone like her before.
To think he could've lost her today. "Jan-"
She places a finger against his lips. "Hush, I know. You saved my life, Mac. That's something I won't forget. I owe you big time."
"Marrying me might be enough to cover it," the words startling him even as they come out of his mouth.
Janet gasps. "Mac, did I just hear you right? Are you seriously proposing to me?"
Teal'c says nothing but raises an inquisitive eyebrow. The space around them has gotten pretty small, what with Ferretti and other personnel suddenly paying close attention, almost holding their collective breath.
Mac's almost tempted to say he's joking, citing adrenaline rush and the heat of the moment. Must've been, to make such a reckless statement.
And yet at the same time he desires nothing more than to spend the rest of his life with this incredible woman, loving her with all his heart and soul. They're perfect together, in ways he never expected. He wants to ensure she and Cassie are forever safe, happy and loved.
So why not take the chance? THey've just survived an alien invasion, after all. Anything's possible now.
"Yeah, you did. I love you, Janet. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?"
She regards him with an expression so serious he fears he's screwed up their relationship beyond repair.
Then she bestows on him one of her most radiant smiles and he feels immense relief. "Oh, Mac. I love you too. Yes, I'll marry you." He meets her halfway as she stands on tiptoe. Their arms wrap around each other- though mindful of his injury of course- for a long, heated kiss, pulling back with a faint blush to their cheeks as personnel cheer for a second time, if anything even louder than before.
Teal'c nods in satisfaction. "Felicitations, MacGyver, Doctor Fraiser." He holds out his hand. "I believe this is the Tau'ri custom for such an occasion?"
Mac can't stop grinning as he takes it. "Yeah, it is. Thanks, Teal'c." His smile fades. "Oh, no. What am I gonna tell Jack and Becky?"
"I believe they will be most heartened by the news. Indeed, I am certain they have been anticipating this development for some time." He can almost swear he sees a glint of humor in the Jaffa's eyes, even a faint trace of a smile on his lips. Guess he's been expecting this as well.
Janet laughs outright. "Bet Cassie feels the same way. She'll be so thrilled."
Oh, yeah. He's gonna be an instant dad, too. How about that.
For a moment he has trouble breathing, certain he's about to freak out (talk about making a major commitment) but Jan's arms come around him again and they're kissing and everything's perfect.
Even so he can't shake this gut feeling Becky's not out of the woods yet, though why or how he has no idea.
Daniel staggers as the tower sways, gripping the side of the control chair. Beside him Becky remains unconscious, her vital signs stable though he wonders for how much longer.
His beloved should have awakened by now, surely. It's worrisome.
The radio set crackles to life. "Hey Daniel? You kids okay?"
"I'm fine Jack, but Becky's still under. How about you?"
"Still alive and kickin', but barely. So what's going on with her, Danny? Think you can wake her so we can get outta here soon?"
"I'm looking into it. I'll let you know."
"Understood. Though I gotta catch my breath before Carter and I meet up with you, if that's okay. Controlling those drones left me kinda winded."
"Got it, Jack. See you later."
A flash of light and a dark-robed figure appears in the middle of the control room.
Anubis. For real this time, Daniel realizes with a chill down his spine.
"Surrender, human," Anubis demands without preamble. "I will have this planet one way or another. Give it to me or the chair and the female Tau'ri in it will be destroyed."
"Not by the hair of my chinny-chin-chin." Daniel's surprised by his own flippancy. Jack's definitely been a bad influence.
"You amuse me, Tau'ri. So I will give you a choice. Yield to me and die quickly and quietly or resist and prepare for a long and horrible death." Just like a typical Goa'uld, vain and arrogant to the bitter end.
Not much of a choice either way.
Becky's still unconscious in the chair, Jack and Sam nowhere in sight.
It's all up to him.
"Decide now, Tau'ri," Anubis says. "Surrender or suffer the consequences."
He reaches for his sidearm, knowing full well bullets would be useless against the powerful Goa'uld. Better than nothing, though.
He'll protect his beloved, or die trying. That's the only real choice here.
~Download complete.~
Thank you, Huy-Braesealis. You have given me much to think about. Until next time.
~At your service as always, Domina. I strongly recommend you wake now. My sensors indicate Dr. Jackson is in grave danger.~
...What?
Becky's eyes fly open, widening in disbelief at the sight before her: Daniel all alone facing down Anubis, of all things.
"Decide now, Tau'ri," Anubis says in that doubled voice that always gives her the creeps. "Surrender or suffer the consequences."
She can tell by the set of her beloved's shoulders and the determination in his stance as he draws his gun that he's about to do something stupid. Sacrifice his life for hers, most likely.
No way. Not gonna happen. There's no losing him now, not after all they've been through together.
Summoning her strength she leaps out of the chair and forces herself between them, arms outstretched in a protective gesture. "The hell you will! You'll have to kill me first before you get anywhere near him!"
Daniel's eyes go wide. "Becky, no-"
Anubis chortles, an ugly, hollow sound. "Very brave, little Tau'ri! But your defiance has only sealed your doom." He raises his gloved hands, power crackling between them.
A bolt of red energy flies from his hands. Becky pushes Daniel out of the way, joining him on the floor. The beam rakes over them in a glancing shot and she cries out at the sharp, intense pain on her shoulder. Daniel moans and goes limp. She realizes with a sinking feeling he must've been hit worse.
Gritting her teeth at the burning pain she stands and pulls her zat out of its holster, pointing it at the Goa'uld. Might as well go down fighting. "I've had enough of you, you slimy snake! Go and pick on someone your own size."
A blaze of yellow within the dark void. "Foolish little human. No one can defeat me! Now I shall destroy both you and your pitiful planet, once and for all."
"I wouldn't if I were you." In a flash of white light a man stands before them, dressed in a cream v-neck sweater and tan slacks. An uncanny resemblance to her Daniel, though without the glasses. A sense of serenity about him, also unlike her raven. "Harm them again and be prepared to face the consequences."
"Preposterous! You are Ascended. There are rules against interfering."
"Ah, but technically I'm not from this universe so the rules don't apply to me. Besides, I have a personal interest." A slow, deliberate wink in Becky's direction, leaving her thoroughly confused.
She can only gape, her gaze flicking between him and her own unconscious Daniel. Same yet totally different. Weird.
"Stop me, if you can," Anubis taunts. "Strike me down. Do it now or I will destroy this planet and everyone on it. Starting with these pathetic humans." Red energy flickers in his hands.
Balls of actinic light streak towards the Goa'uld before he can make good on his threat, black robes swiftly engulfed in white flames. Screaming as he burns, host and parasite both, until all that remains is a pile of ashes.
Becky ought to be appalled but can't summon up even a smidgen of remorse for him. Good riddance.
She turns back to her beloved. Her shoulder hurts like hell but Daniel's wound on his abdomen is much worse off. She frowns, wondering what she could use as a bandage. She checks her pockets, panicking when she fails to find even the usual emergency medkit stashed in her vest.
Her beloved may well die, and it'd be all her fault.
A large hand settles on her uninjured shoulder, gentle yet firm. The Ascended version smiles down at her in sympathy. "Please, let me take care of that," he says softly. His hand moves to her injured shoulder and he places the other on her beloved's abdomen, fingers lightly splayed.
"Who are you? What are you doing here? Where did you come from?"
"Sssh." He closes his eyes, concentrates. His hands glow and the wounds knit themselves back together, the pain fading quickly. Even the burnt holes in their clothing are repaired, like they had never been.
Becky blinks in surprise. "Wow. Thanks a lot. And for getting rid of Anubis too, by the way."
"My pleasure. I've broken so many rules already but I feel responsible. I should never have let him out of my sight."
"Are you from a parallel universe? How and why did you Ascend?"
"Yes to the first question. Can't answer the last one, sorry. Suffice it to say my circumstances were quite different, and I had to make some tough decisions." He stands up, wiping his hands on his slacks. "I have to go."
She stands with him, placing a hand on his arm. Very warm and solid for an energy-based being. "Not yet, please. You saved our lives. I don't know how to thank you."
His smile is warm and gentle. "Just love him and take care of him, with all your heart and soul. He'll do the same for you, trust me."
"Will I ever see you again?"
"Maybe one day." He bends and kisses her cheek. "Take care, Becky." A bright flash of light and he's gone.
There's a soft groan behind her. Daniel's eyes open, blink up at her in confusion. "Um, hi?"
She grins in relief. "Hi. How are you feeling?"
"Got an awful headache. And I could've sworn I got hit by an energy bolt," he adds, absently patting his abdomen. He takes in the room with a slightly puzzled frown. "What happened to Anubis, anyway?"
She's not about to tell him an Ascended alternate version of himself saved them, he'd never believe it. "Got what was coming to him, don't worry. We'll never see him again. Here, let me help you sit up." She kneels, slipping an arm around her shoulders.
One of his slides around her waist, tugging her until she's sitting in his lap. She giggles. "Very smooth."
He looks smug. "I thought so. Thanks for saving my life."
"Honestly, I didn't do much."
"You saved me from worse, I'm sure of it. You were there by my side, and you didn't back down. That means a lot to me. Mere bahaadur pyaare," he whispers before meeting her lips.
She melts into his embrace, overwhelmed by the warmth of his body surrounding hers, the sensations evoked as they taste each other. His hands caressing her back, his own muscles flexing under her hands as she smooths them beneath his jacket. Slowly savoring the sheer miracle of being alive and together.
Perfection.
"Sheesh, you two. Celebrating already?"
Jack strides forward to meet them with Sam not far behind, both smirking. Their feet trail through the pile of ashes and Jack frowns down at the floor. "You oughta bring a broom next time, Beck. This place sure needs a spring cleaning."
"I'll be sure to keep that in mind." Very dry. "How're you feeling?"
"Terrific." He breaks into a wide grin. "You did it, kiddo."
"We did it," she corrects firmly. "All four of us." She holds out her hand. "Help me up, Uncle Colonel?"
"You bet. Carter, give Danny a hand, okay?" He easily pulls her to her feet. "So what were you two doin' on the floor, anyway?"
Daniel opens his mouth to speak and she throws him a quelling look. "Long story. Let's get outta here, okay? Bet there's a lot of cleanup to do back at the settlement."
The MacGyver-Fraiser wedding's held a week after the battle. Captain Andrea Sedgewick officiates in her capacity as chaplain while vows are spoken and improvised rings of electrical wire exchanged, to everyone's amusement. Becky's already working on making them more permanent bracelets of braided and dyed leather at their request, a bit more practical and easier to come by than proper wedding rings right now.
Hard to believe that out of the three of them Mac's the one to get married first. Ironic, for a man who once considered himself incapable of making a commitment, the years serving as her guardian notwithstanding.
Judging from the faint bewildered look in his eyes he can't believe it either, though he repeats the vows willingly enough and his smile for his bride is warm and fond and genuine. After decades of bachelorhood and failed relationships he's finally taking a chance, allowing hope to triumph over uncertainty at last.
Janet beams at her beloved as she speaks in turn, with sure certainty she has the man she's been waiting for.
Cassie can't stop giggling, fit to bursting with happiness. She grins at Becky who winks back at her, cousin to cousin.
From their positions as best man and maid of honor Jack and Sam can't stop trading their own long, lingering looks. She wonders just what kind of shenanigans it'll take to get them to finally see reason and tie the knot.
Standing behind Sam she notices Daniel watching behind Jack, a small, wistful smile on his face. Their eyes meet and the smile turns warmer, even sultry. Her cheeks flush at the naked yearning in his gaze, like he can't wait for them to get home so they can ravish each other thoroughly. Since the incident in the control room it seems their passion has only gotten stronger.
Mac and Janet finally seal their bond with a kiss, and Becky joins in the enthusiastic applause.
She hugs them with tears in her eyes. "Congratulations. I'm so proud of you, Unc. Of both of you."
Mac grins, kissing her on the forehead. "Thanks, Beck. Maybe someday soon I'll be giving you away, huh?" nodding in Daniel's direction.
"Maybe someday," she agrees.
They will marry, she's sure of it. But not just yet.
There's a settlement to rebuild first, after all. Not to mention a whole galaxy needing to be set right.
Alvarez and his team are already hard at work repairing the damage, along with a host of volunteers. After tending to casualties and burying the dead in the settlement's cemetery people- military and civilian alike- are coming together with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to help each other however they can and pass along their knowledge to others. A true cooperative society.
Too bad it took the destruction of their homeworld- and almost losing this one- to bring it about.
Despite good reasons for secrecy Becky's convinced there's a strong argument to be made in favor of opening up to the rest of the galaxy. The Goa'uld as a species has been all but eliminated as a power now, what with most of the System Lords and their planetary strongholds reduced to tatters. An unprecedented opportunity exists to reach out to all these newly-vulnerable worlds, tip the balance firmly in favor of freedom and an end to millennia of oppression. Encourage trade between worlds, both material goods and ideas. Create a galactic confederation- a commonwealth, even- with Gateway as a trading hub and clearinghouse of information, thanks to the protections left by the Ancients. Bring them under the protection of New Earth lest some worse power comes along, seeing them as easy pickings to conquer and exploit.
They may laugh at her ideas in council but she's positive it'll happen, sooner or later.
There's all the time in the world, now.
A glorious night for the festival, the first hint of warmer weather during the day lingering into soft twilight, streetlights shut off so the entire settlement glows instead with paper lanterns everywhere. In each doorway sit handmade pots overflowing with flowers, both native and Old-Earth-adapted varieties.
Becky strolls arm in arm with Daniel through the central forums (which he says reminds him more of Middle Eastern bazaars than anything), marveling together at the joyful chaos surrounding them. Music on every corner, people walking around munching on special filled dumplings or kebabs of grilled proteins and vegetables or ices flavored with preserved fruits in paper cups from the food stalls. Loud and colorful, laughter and happy conversations and kids running around and playing.
Spring Awakening indeed. Life and light returning to the world after a long winter, even more precious when it could've all been taken away in an instant. A night of celebration, love and fellowship and good cheer in abundance.
The way things should be, all the time.
Twenty-eight hours later they relax on top of blankets in front of the woodburning stove. Lying on their sides, face to face and body to body, clinging to one another. Sharing warmth and breath.
Becky knows she ought to be at peace next to her beloved. But now she's had time to think the realization's hit her like a ton of bricks.
Surely there were sentient beings on those ships, along with the Kull warriors. Granted their sole job was to do their master's bidding; they would've destroyed New Earth and everyone on it without a moment's qualm.
But still.
If there were warriors like Teal'c aboard they must've had families at home who will never, ever see their fathers again. And she had a hand in making that happen.
She used to be a pacifist. Now she's a killer. And the shame burns in her like nothing else.
"You're thinking about last week, aren't you?"
Daniel's soft question startles her. They haven't said a word to each other for the past hour, content as they both have been to silently savor each other's presence after lovemaking. One of the best things about their relationship, no pressure to make conversation if they don't feel like it.
"How can you tell?"
The corner of his mouth turns up in a wry smile, the look in her beloved's beautiful blue eyes reminiscent of his Ascended version (she'll carry the memory of his appearance with her to the grave). "I know my hummingbird. You feel responsible for what happened, all those lives lost."
"I do," she admits, grateful for the firelight concealing her blush. "I know there's a war on, and we have to defend ourselves. Things would be a whole lot worse if we'd failed, and yet-"
"-and yet you feel remorse all the same," he finishes. "I understand, believe me. When Ra punished the Abdyonians for daring to defy him a lot of innocents were killed and it broke my heart. I knew down to my bones it was our fault- mine and Jack's. I was terrified of what we were facing, but I also knew it was our duty to set things right."
"And in doing so you brought down an alien god, freed an oppressed people and eventually changed the course of history for an entire galaxy." A wry smile of her own. "Not bad for a shy archaeologist and a full-bird colonel with bad knees."
Daniel chuckles. "I surprised even myself, back then. You know I've never considered myself brave, same as you. But I've learned that bravery is more than acting without fear. It's doing what needs to be done despite the fear. And you've proved you can do that, in spades."
"If you say so," she mutters, looking away from him into the fire.
He turns her face back, tenderly cupping her cheek. "I know so. Your compassion and caring for others is what gives you the strength to be brave, Becky. It's one of the things I love the most about you. Don't ever give that up."
"I'll do my best not to." She takes heart from his words, brooding banished for the moment. "You said that's one of the things you love about me. Are there others, by any chance?" She playfully bats her eyes.
A low, aroused chuckle as he reaches for her. "Plenty of time for a demonstration. Why don't I show you?"
He's right, she thinks before losing herself in rekindled passion. Plenty of time now.
Time to rest, rebuild, repair. Set a galaxy to rights.
To process a ton of downloaded information, which will take a while to sort even with assistance from the portion of Huy-Braesealis in her mind.
Already it's pervading her dreams, visions of tall graceful spires floating above the waves of an unknown ocean, gleaming pink and gold in an alien sunset.
No idea yet where it is in the universe but she knows it's out there, waiting for them. She knows its name.
Atlantis, the City of Water.
Notes: Quick reference to S3 E16, "Urgo." Anubis' speech in the compound is, of course, from S7 E22, "Lost City Pt. 2"
