It's all Daniel can do to keep up with Becky as she strides purposefully from the transporter alcove and through the vast hall of the Gateroom to the conference room. She's very quick when she wants to be.

No one's looking in their direction as they enter but it's clear they've interrupted a heated discussion. Sheppard's standing ramrod-straight with arms crossed, practically daring the others in the room to defy him. Elizabeth's hands are on her hips as she glares at him. McKay's jaw is set, his eyes flashing blue fire, building up a head of steam in indignation. Zelenka and Beckett look on in open dismay. Teyla, Ronon and Lorne are absent, but only because they're on the mainland defending the settlements.

Becky rounds on her brother-in-spirit with fury in her eyes. "Dammit, John! Are you really thinking of flying a Jumper rigged with a naquadria bomb into that Hive ship by yourself?"

He glowers at her in return. "I have to. Can't risk anyone else's lives on this."

"That's the dumbest thing I ever heard. Why does it have to be you, huh? What's the point in needlessly sacrificing yourself? There's gotta be another way."

"There isn't. Getting the Jumper in the right position to deliver the bomb requires a skilled pilot with the gene and I'm the most qualified."

"Oh, for crying out loud-"

"Enough! The discussion is over. There's nothing you can say that will make me change my mind. I'm done here," stalking past her to the door.

Which remains firmly shut.

"Hey!" His brow furrows in concentration but nothing happens. Spins back to face her, hands clenching into fists. "What the hell's going on? Since when do you have control of my city?"

"Since you and I are of equal rank as Domini." Her expression is grim. "And since both 'Lantis and Huy-Braesealis agree with me that you are most definitely not expendable."

He grimaces. "Don't talk nuts. My life isn't any more important than anyone else's."

"You're wrong. 'Lantis and Huy-Braesealis think it is. So does everyone else in this room, or the whole city for that matter. More importantly, I think it is," her voice softer as she places a hand on his arm. "I'm not gonna lose my big brother if I don't have to."

Under normal circumstances he could brush her off easily thanks to his training and obvious height advantage. Yet she stands her ground, holding on with a surprisingly tight grip.

Tense minutes pass as they stare each other down, the cold determination in his gaze countered by the heated steel in Becky's. Daniel knows well that stubbornness runs deep in her family.

"Why are they just standing there?" McKay hisses. "That Hive ship could be bearing down on us any minute!"

"Shut up, Rodney," he mutters in return.

Elizabeth shoots Daniel her own quizzical look but he shakes his head, as powerless to interfere as anyone else. This is between Domini, a conversation conducted on a level inaccessible to mere humans yet palpable all the same.

Eventually Sheppard bows his head and she releases him, his whole body sagging in defeat. "Fine, you win. What now?"

"As it happens I have an idea. Radek, is that dart you guys captured a while back to study still spaceworthy?"

McKay frowns but Zelenka nods, cautiously. "It is."

"Do you think you guys could rig it so John can control it remotely from the chair with the bomb inside?" Who looks thunderstruck, as if the idea had never before occurred to him.

"Like a Trojan Horse?" McKay's brow furrows, the wheels already turning. "Maybe. Possibly doable. We've been thinking about building a bridge between Wraith and Ancient technology anyway, for research purposes. A challenge, but not insurmountable with my considerable genius."

"Never doubted it for a second. If you need any specialized components not immediately found in stores ask 'Lantis and she'll produce it for you in one of the manufactories."

"But the power requirements-"

Becky waves away his protest. "She says the remaining ZPM's got enough energy for that and to maintain life support and the sensors. Work as quickly as you can, all our lives are at stake."

Rodney's eyes dart towards Elizabeth, who nods silent endorsement. He harrumphs and pulls himself together. "Yes, yes, of course. Really, when aren't they? Come on," gesturing peremptorily to Zelenka, "work this important can't be trusted to mere minions."

Carson clears his throat. "Right, I'd best be off to the infirmary myself. Casualties are coming in that need sorting."

Sheppard watches them leave with an unreadable expression, hands in pockets and shoulders slumped. Elizabeth approaches him carefully, placing a hand right where Becky touched him earlier. He flinches a little and she withdraws. "John, why don't you take it easy for a while? You'll be needed to man the chair again once the dart's ready, and you've already been through a lot," her voice calm and quiet as if talking him down from off a ledge, pulling him back from the brink.

"Sure." An almost furtive glance at Becky, jerking his head towards the doors. "So can I-?" She nods weakly and the doors open.

Elizabeth watches him flee with a thoughtful expression. "I've never seen him so chastened before. Then again, no one's succeeded in getting him to stand down once he's made up his mind either. That can't have been easy for you."

Becky looks glum. "It wasn't. He'll never forgive me."

"I'm sure he will, in time. You probably saved his life."

"I doubt he'll see it that way." She sways a bit. "Whoa-"

Daniel hurries to support her. "Here, I've got you. Why don't we pick up a late breakfast and relax at home for a bit?"

"It has been a pretty hectic morning," Elizabeth agrees with a sympathetic smile. "We'll let you know when everything's ready."

"Of course. See you then."

Becky makes no objection when he leads her away, just as drained as Sheppard by the confrontation.


The bedroom windows are slightly opaqued against the midmorning sun as they read in bed and nap for a bit, fully dressed on top of the sheets with one of the Athosian blankets draped over them to ward off the slight chill in the air. Not much else to do while Radek and Rodney prep the Trojan Dart and the city heals itself.

The mysterious Hive ship hasn't budged from its position on the edge of the solar system, as if biding its time. No one sees it as a good thing.

Frankly it's the least of Becky's concerns right now. She'd be as sound asleep as Daniel if not for the last-minute words from 'Lantis echoing in her mind.

Congratulations on your pregnancy.

She's not sure she's ready for motherhood, to be honest. As much as she admired her mom and how she juggled both work and family Becky's never once imagined becoming one herself. Then again there's an awful lot she's done over the past eight years that she once believed could only happen in fiction.

Besides, it wouldn't surprise her if Daniel didn't want to be a parent because of his upbringing. Not that they've ever seriously discussed having children before, being preoccupied with ensuring the settlement's future.

Maybe 'Lantis is wrong, the upset stomach and missed period just symptoms of overextending herself.

Her stomach gives a sudden churn. She sets her mouth in a thin line, closes her eyes and breathes slowly through her nose until the nausea passes.

On the other hand as a scientist she knows further speculation's often pointless without more data.

Daniel doesn't even stir as she climbs out of bed and heads for the infirmary.

Time for a second opinion.


"Well Becky, it appears 'Lantis is correct," Carson says cheerfully. "Thanks to your description of the symptoms and these test results I can diagnose you as being in the early stages of pregnancy. Congratulations."

She swallows. "You're sure?"

"I do have some experience in these matters," he says in gentle admonition. "You're welcome to ask Jennifer for another opinion, though I'm certain she'll come to the same conclusion."

"Of course, sorry. So how long have I been...?" A vague gesture at her body.

"Five weeks. Approximately the size of an apple seed, as an analogy."

Between the dream therapy and the wedding then, most likely when she and Daniel made love for the first time since before Sidon. She can't help smiling a little at the pleasant memory.

Funny how life can change in the blink of an eye when one's looking the other way.

The curtain is shoved aside as McKay barges in. "I need you to look at this," flourishing a smallish burn spot on his hand. "That crazy Czech hasn't the foggiest how to operate a soldering iron."

Carson rolls his eyes. "Och, Rodney. Have you completely forgotten doctor-patient confidentiality? You're supposed to wait your turn."

"I can't, there's too much to do. No doubt it's gonna leave a terrible scar on my hand for the rest of my life, and- Oh, hey," finally noticing Becky sitting on the exam table. "What are you doing here?"

"Nothing," she says quickly. "Any progress on the Trojan Dart?"

"Working on it." He frowns. "Really, are you sick? Is it contagious?"

Carson sighs. "For god's sake, Rodney. Even from here I can see it's only a minor burn, best treated by soaking in cool water and applying a salve. Nurse Velasquez will see to it. Now if you don't mind," shooing him away. He grumbles but withdraws, not without shooting a final suspicious stare in her direction first. "Sorry, where were we?"

"My pregnancy," the words startling her even as they come out of her mouth.

"Ah, yes. Now, before you return to New Earth I'd like to do a more comprehensive exam. Gate travel shouldn't be a problem until the third trimester, Teyla's done it many times herself with no harm done. I'll send a copy of your labwork to Janet with the next databurst, then Dr. Hayashi and her team will take over from there. I hear Cassie's becoming a fine midwife, she'd like the practice. No prenatal pills available of course but Janet and I have compiled a list of suitable foods in both galaxies full of all the nutrients required for healthy fetal development..."

His soft Scottish brogue washes over Becky, leaving a new reality in its wake as she contemplates the implications.

Even if she'd never considered motherhood before it's certainly time to do so now.

And what might Daniel think, for that matter? How would he react? Would he stand and gape at her, or turn and run the other way? Would he be overjoyed, or abandon her out of fear?

She has no idea. It's almost like being stranded on a world without access to Gate translation protocols.

A hand waves in front of her face. "Becky? Are ye all right?"

She gives herself a mental shake. "Yeah, sorry. Think I'm just a little in shock, to be honest."

His smile is warm and sympathetic. "Aye, I'm sure it's all a babble to you at this point. It'll take some time to sink in. Why don't I call Daniel and give him the good news?" reaching for his communicator.

"No!" she blurts out. "I mean not now, he's sleeping. I'll tell him later."

"Well, hopefully soon enough or he'll be in for a big surprise when it starts showing." He holds up a hand in a placating gesture. "I'm joking, sorry. No doubt Daniel will be thrilled at the news whenever you choose to tell him. You're free to go now, we'll talk more later."

"Right. Thanks for seeing me," as she hops off the table.

"Anytime, lass. Again, my heartiest congratulations."

Rodney's sitting on the next bed over, his injured hand soaking in a basin of water under the watchful eye of Velasquez as he pokes at the tablet laying flat on his lap with the other.

His eyes flick up at her then drop back down. "Hey." Uncharacteristically subdued for once.

"Hey yourself. Seen John lately?"

"Not since you stole his thunder. Most likely off sulking somewhere, he's got hidey-holes all over the city when he wants to be alone."

She winces. Great, something else to worry about. "I'd better go find him and apologize. Let me know when the Trojan Dart's ready, okay?"

"Sure." Another furtive glance. "Um, take care of yourself."

"You, too. See you later." His behavior's very un-McKay-like, so much she has a sinking feeling he eavesdropped. Even with the increased population Atlantis retains a small-town feeling, and Rodney's never one to keep things to himself anyway. Whatever he knows the rest of the city will too, sooner or later.

She takes zero comfort from the thought.


Searching all of John's hiding places could take hours so Becky relies on the connection they share as Domini, eventually arriving at a room bathed in orange-tinted light. He's sitting in a window seat, legs drawn up and a ceramic bottle of Pegasus ale dangling loosely from his hand. Staring intently at nothing, just like her uncles when they've got something on their minds.

She bites her lip, full of sudden misgivings. Intruding on his privacy seems so wrong right now, he'll probably see this as another confrontation instead of an apology.

Might be a better idea to seek him out another time, all things considered. Though she had no choice in the matter she's profoundly sorry for humiliating him in front of his friends. The look of hurt and rejection in his eyes cut her to the bone, like she'd betrayed her actual big brother if he were still alive.

"So, you gonna stand there the whole day or what?"

"Depends on if you want to kill me or not." Based on his hooded eyes and enigmatic half-smile she figures it could go either way.

"Nah, not on your honeymoon. C'mon over."

"Seriously?"

"Seriously. Cross my heart I won't bite your head off," making the motions over his chest.

"Sure." She joins him and draws up her legs on the opposite side. One glance out the window and she winces. "Long way down."

He chuckles, amused as always by her dislike of heights. "Found this the first month we got here, thanks to a tip from 'Lantis. The second-tallest building in the city next to the control tower. When not flying this helps me feel closer to the sky."

"I'll take your word for it."

They sit in silence for a while, John taking occasional swigs from the bottle. Through the tinted glass a flock of seabirds whirl among the towers and disappear.

"I'm not sorry for stopping you," Becky says finally, "but I am for pulling rank with 'Lantis. This is your city and I'm only a guest here. But you seemed so hell-bent on sacrificing yourself."

He waves his hand in an absolving gesture. "You did the right thing. Guess I got so used to haring off by myself to save the day it's become more reflex than anything. Real boneheaded of me, huh?"

"You could say. I mean, you do realize it's not all on you anymore, right? Lots of people around here would gladly go to hell and back for you if ordered."

"Which is why I never will," he says grimly. "Becoming Military Commander the first forty-eight hours here was never on my to-do list. But when the Wraith sucked Sumner dry the safety of Atlantis and everyone in it became my top priority, and that hasn't changed. There's no way I'll ever send anyone to face what I'm not willing to do myself." For one precious unguarded moment she catches a glimpse of the heavy weight of experience in his gaze- the pain for the impossible choices made in the name of survival, the deep regret for all the lives lost. Jack has the same look from time to time when he thinks no one's paying attention, and so did Mac back in the day.

She briefly wonders if she has her own version, considering what she's been through. And who else notices but doesn't say.

Then his expression shifts, from closed-off commander to slightly goofy big brother in seconds flat. "Hey, enough about me. Looks like you've got something on your mind yourself."

"How can you tell?"

"Call it a gut feeling. Nothing bad, I hope."

"More like life-changing."

"Now this I gotta hear. Lay it on me, maybe I can help."

"I seriously doubt it." She squirms a bit in her seat. Some aspects of Ancient architecture are more comfortable than others. "Not long after you dropped out of the link 'Lantis congratulated me on my pregnancy, and Carson just confirmed it."

"Hey, that's terrific! Have you told Daniel yet?"

"God, no. I'm still trying to wrap my head around it. To be honest it's kinda scary."

"Aw, what's to be afraid of? You're gonna be just fine. Now I'm really glad you talked me out of going on that suicide run, 'cause I'd make a great surrogate uncle- teach him how to surf and play football, tell him stories about Ferris wheels and flying jets and helicopters-"

She can't help but laugh. Trust him to cheer her up when she needs it most. "Okay, okay! You win. But what if it turns out to be a girl?"

"I'll teach her too, no problem. Even twins if you have 'em." He sobers. "Seriously Beck, there's nothing to worry about. I'm sure you and Daniel will be amazing parents."

"How can you be so certain? I'm not sure I have what it takes."

"Because I know my little sis. You can do anything you set your mind to, and raising a kid is no different. So relax, you got this."

"And here I thought I'd be the one giving you advice. So we're good now?"

He pretends to seriously consider her question, then grins. "Yeah, we're good. Hey, feel like joining me for an afternoon snack? Don't know about you but chair-sitting always works up an appetite."

To her surprise she is pretty famished. "Sure."

His communicator chirps. "Weir to Sheppard. The Hive ship's in motion again, on the same trajectory though not at attack speed. Can you relay the news to Becky and ask her to join us in the Gateroom?"

"Will do, we'll be there directly. Sheppard out." He smirks over at Becky. "Great idea rigging the dart for remote control, by the way. Just like operating one of those toy racing cars."

She laughs, grateful that part of him never fully grew up. "More fun too, I hope. The universe would be pretty dull without you around, big brother."

"Feeling's mutual," he says with a grin, reaching over to ruffle her hair. "C'mon, let's get outta here."


Daniel stands off to one side while the others hover around Chuck's console in the Gateroom, staring uneasily at the on-screen view of the incoming Hive ship.

According to McKay cloak, weapons and shields are all exhausted so they're hardly in the best position to defend themselves in the face of another attack. The city's limping along only by the grace of one remaining ZPM and the naquadah generators, it'll take days for any replacements to be produced. The Trojan Dart's currently their only means of defense, and even that might not be enough.

As part of SG-1 Daniel's faced the worst the Milky Way has to offer. Yet the possibility of falling victim to a Wraith's feeding hand- or Becky, for that matter- frankly terrifies him.

Though it's interesting that on Old Earth the definition of Wraith was either a ghost or specter appearing just after a person's death, or some other kind of vengeful spirit. While the word itself has no clear etymology there's a relation to Scots warth and Old Norse vǫrðr, also vörður in Icelandic and Middle English wreien. The Ancients called them vitam vescentium, meaning life-eaters. And according to Ronon the Satedan characters for their name literally translated to-

He gives himself a mental shake. Jack's warned him often enough about losing himself in cultural and linguistic trivia in the middle of dangerous situations, and this is no different. Time to focus on the here and now.

Becky and Sheppard emerge from the transporter alcove together, grinning and winking at each other before separating. Yet the smile and kiss on the cheek she offers Daniel are tentative enough to make him wonder what happened while he was napping. "Hey."

"Hey yourself. Where have you been? You weren't around when I woke up."

"Couldn't sleep, so I took a walk and met up with John. We're good now." Going by her thoughtful expression there's more to it but he decides not to press for now.

"Dr. Weir?" Chuck blinks at the console in clear disbelief. "The Hive ship's stopped moving. It's now hailing us."

Elizabeth frowns. "Open a channel, audio only." She raises her voice. "This is Dr. Weir, leader of Atlantis Colony. Please state your business or leave our system immediately."

"Activate your screen and I will tell you," a male voice replies in a rasping tone.

She quirks an eyebrow in Sheppard's direction. "Is that who I think it is?"

A cautious nod. "Could be. Somehow I don't think his showing up here is entirely a coincidence."

"That makes two of us. Regardless it's worth hearing what he has to say." She plants herself in front of the screen and nods to Chuck.

Presently a Wraith appears, typical tattooed green skin, slitted dark eyes, white hair and goatee. A higher predator like New Earth direwolves yet far more intelligent and deadly. Becky shivers and leans into Daniel who slips a protective arm around her waist, instinctively seeking mutual reassurance.

The Wraith smiles, displaying pointed teeth. "Greetings, Sheppard."

"Hey, Todd. Long time no see. Come to borrow a cup of sugar?" His drawl reminds Daniel of Jack's deliberately nonchalant attitude in the face of danger.

"I see your sense of humor has not changed. Also that you have have emerged victorious from battle."

"Yeah, too bad you missed the party. You would've joined the others in getting your green butts kicked."

Todd waves a hand dismissively. "Their fate matters little to me. I am here on behalf of my queen and her Peace Faction with a proposition for Atlantis."

"Peace Faction?" Zelenka wonders. "First time I've heard of such a thing."

"You and me both." Sheppard looks to Elizabeth. "Good thing diplomacy's your bailiwick, not mine."

"Glad you approve." Very dry. Then to Todd, "Am I to understand you are authorized to negotiate a cease-fire agreement with us?"

"Yes. You have my word no darts or warriors will attack your city. As a further show of good faith I will beam down into your city alone."

Ever the consummate diplomat, her face gives away nothing of her emotions. "Your proposal is intriguing, but we require time to discuss this among ourselves. You understand our caution."

"I do. I await your reply but this is, as you humans say, time-sensitive. My queen's patience is not infinite."

Elizabeth stares speculatively at the blank screen. "John, call Evan and have him bring back Teyla and Ronon as soon as possible. Everyone gather in the conference room when they arrive. This is a matter for the Lantean Council, not a public forum. I'd rather not cause further panic in the city than today's events already have."

Daniel and Becky hang back as the group disperses. They may be considered honorary citizens and de facto Milky Way Ambassadors but ultimately this is none of their business. The colony's autonomous after all, they don't need guidance or approval from New Earth.

Sheppard glances at them and smirks. "So, you two up for a snack before the meeting or what?"


"Well, this is unprecedented," Elizabeth says dryly half an hour later. "Observations anyone?"

"What else is there except we can't trust him?" McKay demands. "This so-called 'Peace Faction' is obviously a sham to distract us while they close in for the kill. If we go ahead and allow him in there's no telling what havoc he'll cause. Better to sic the Trojan Dart at him- which is ready to go, by the way- and be done with it."

"I agree with McKay," Ronon says. "The only good Wraith is a dead one."

"Oh, come now," Beckett protests. "Clearly we must be doing something right for there to be a Peace Faction in the first place. This is the opening we've been praying would happen, to end the war once and for all. Please, think of those who've suffered by the culling before dismissing his offer out of hand. Let's at least hear him out."

"It is rare for groups of Wraith to join together for anything in their best interests as a species, not merely as individual Hives," Teyla notes. "This may be worth pursuing, if treated most carefully."

"We will," Elizabeth promises. "I don't entirely trust his motives either, but if the Wraith are divided this is the perfect opportunity to sound out the intentions of Todd and his Peace Faction. For the continued survival of the colony it is imperative we seek any possible advantage, by diplomacy as well as armed force."

McKay snorts. "Honestly, I wonder who's taking advantage of whom here. Here we sit, effectively grounded and at minimal power instead of riding high with energy and weapons to spare and he just waltzes in talking about peace. Don't tell me I'm the only one who sees the cosmic irony in this."

"Nothing like the famous Rodney paranoia, folks." Sheppard's quip is lightly mocking but there's no denying his own underlying concern.

"John, you know Todd better than the rest of us. What's your take on this?" Elizabeth asks him.

He rubs his chin thoughtfully. "Hard to say. See, he's smarter than the average Wraith, with a twisted sense of honor for his kind. But also opportunistic enough to take advantage of us however he can. In a sense that makes him less predictable, not more. We'd better keep a close eye on him."

She steeples her fingers together. "Understood. Still, we ought to keep an open mind that he will play fair with us, at least for now. This could be the beginning of an era of peace- or at the very least a much-needed detente- between our races. Not to mention an end to a very dark chapter in the history of this galaxy."

McKay waves a dismissive hand. "Yes, yes, hoping for peace is all very well and good but at the very least why aren't we holding this at the beta site? Wouldn't that be much safer than putting the city at risk?"

"Perhaps, but setting all that up will take longer than I have a feeling we have time for. This could be a once-in-a-lifetime offer and his queen may withdraw it if we hesitate much longer. Becky, I'd appreciate your assistance with this."

"Absolutely not!" McKay blurts out before she can reply. "No way should she be sitting in front of a Wraith in her condition. It'd be like offering an appetizer plate."

Daniel frowns. "What are you talking about? You know she's a skilled negotiator."

"So? She still shouldn't be in there with him. He could probably smell it on her, or however they sense life forces. Besides, how could you not know? She's pregnant with your child!"

"She's what?"

Becky groans, slapping her forehead. "Dammit McKay, I knew you were gonna do this. Couldn't you have just kept your big mouth shut for once?"

"Well, it's not like you swore me to secrecy or anything. You should be grateful I just saved you from being a Wraith's lunch." He looks rather put out.

Carson rolls his eyes. Sheppard just smirks slightly, as if he already knew.

For his own part Daniel can only stare at Becky, thunderstruck. For some reason his usually quick mind is struggling to process the concept.

"That's wonderful news," Elizabeth says. "But in light of this new development Rodney's right, we should err on the side of caution. Teyla, you and Becky will observe remotely through a closed-circuit feed via 'Lantis, along with Rodney and Daniel. John and Ronon, I'd therefore like you to attend in their stead should Todd decide to try anything despite his promise. I am well aware inviting him into the city is a risky move, and we should take every precaution possible."

Sheppard nods agreement. "Fair enough. According to 'Lantis there are adjoining rooms in the most isolated section of the city that we can use. I'll also have two squads of marines assigned for guard duty as an additional safeguard."

"Good idea. Any other questions?"

"No, but plenty of misgivings," McKay grumbles. "It'll end in disaster, I just know it."

"Duly noted. Let's inform Todd he's got his meeting. And I think we should give the expectant parents some privacy," with a wink for Becky and Daniel. The group breaks up but not before bestowing congratulations on the way out, leaving them alone.

The silence stretches.

She squirms in her seat. "Well c'mon, say something. You're making me nervous."

"You're pregnant."

"Yeah."

"We're having a baby."

"Yeah..." More wary now.

"Are you..." clearing his throat, "are you sure? I mean, it's not showing yet." A vague wave in the direction of her abdomen.

"Considering 'Lantis told me and Carson confirmed it, yeah, I'm sure. And it's not gonna show for months yet, it's only been five weeks."

He does a quick calculation. Must've been the night of the dream therapy session, after Jack and Mac stopped by. Their first lovemaking since before Sidon.

She looks at him, biting her lip in apprehension. "Um, are you okay with this? I know it must be a shock to you, because it sure is to me. We've always been careful."

Is he okay? All of a sudden Daniel's not really sure.

From time to time he's wondered about being a father someday, at least in a hypothetical sense. But now that it's a distinct possibility he's having a hard time coming to grips with the notion.

He takes a deep breath, struggling to quell a rising sense of panic. It doesn't work.

When he was five his nanny at the time- a local woman who also taught him to speak Egyptian- took him to visit his parents at their dig site, a newly-discovered underground tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Which- by either an amazing coincidence or accompanying curse as later rumored- indirectly claimed their lives while prepping for the exhibit two years later.

The cool air and dim light in the antechamber was so startling in comparison to the heat and brightness of outside it was like the very ground was closing in on him, threatening to swallow him whole. Fortunately the nanny distracted him by pointing out the paintings on the walls- the funny people facing sideways, the gods with bird and animal heads, the strange symbols he later learned were hieroglyphs from the Middle Kingdom period.

Though he's never suffered from claustrophobia then or since he swears the walls of the conference room are closing in on him now, just like they seemed to back then.

"Daniel?" Becky's staring at him, brow furrowed in concern. "Is something wrong? You've gone awfully white."

He stands, wobbling on unsteady legs. "Sorry. I, um..." He swallows, tugging at the collar of his shirt. "I, uh, I need some air-"

He barely remembers knocking the chair over in his haste to sprint out of the room.


The bracing wind's a slap in the face as he steps out on the balcony, which is good.

He leans on the railing, taking in great gulping breaths of salt-laden air. As the panic dissipates and his heart settles into a calmer rhythm he backs away and settles onto a nearby bench. Wishing he could stop the reeling of his thoughts as easily.

A father. He's gonna be a father.

They've never discussed raising a family before yet he honestly believed he'd be ready for the news when the time came. To his chagrin it just about floored him instead.

Though it shouldn't really come as a surprise, he thinks with a rueful smile. For a long time he believed himself too damaged to seriously consider parenthood. Even now he harbors some bitterness towards his parents and Nick for their negligence, their arrogance and inattention, their obliviousness to anything happening right in front of their noses. Daniel's painfully aware he has those same traits in abundance.

In his more brooding moments he's believed himself nothing more than a mere tool of fate, a hapless survivor of multiple tragedies. But lurching from one disaster to another is hardly living, and ever since Zero Hour he's determined to do better, to look forward with hope instead of wallowing in the memories of the past.

Having Becky in his life's a major step in that direction. So is starting a family.

She must be devastated by his hasty retreat. He wouldn't blame her for believing he intends to leave her in the lurch.

Not that he ever would. Not his own beloved hummingbird.

He ought to seek her out, go down on his knees and apologize profusely. He really should.

His heart speeds up again. He leans over with his head in his hands, fingers pressing against his temples. Taking slow, deep breaths.

Then again, maybe it's better to stay put a while longer. Until he can get his head on straight.


Becky fidgets in her seat as she watches the interview on the monitor. Todd (John's purposefully ironic nicknaming in action, no doubt) appears unflappable against the triple threat of Elizabeth's tactful curiosity, John's snarky cunning and Ronon's blatant hostility.

Thankfully she's never seen any Wraith in person before now, not even offworld. One glimpse of him- even surrounded by a full squad of marines for everyone's protection- is enough to give her a serious case of the creeps.

She glances at Rodney slouching on the opposite side of Teyla, ostensibly paying more attention to his tablet than the monitor. She's grateful for his outburst, though of course she'll never tell him to his face. Wouldn't do to admit he's right twice in one day after all, it might go to his head.

The meeting's taking place in an isolated- and as yet unexplored- section of the city, so as not to induce further panic among its already-stressed citizenry. The three of them are sequestered in a seperate room with closed-circuit feed provided by 'Lantis and two marines stationed outside as per John's orders.

Daniel never showed up for the meeting, and he's not answering his radio hails either. Must've been pretty spooked by the news; no doubt he's hiding somewhere, trying to wrap his head around the idea.

She doesn't blame him. They really should've discussed the possibility of having kids before now. Hopefully he isn't scared off for good.

Surely he wouldn't just panic and abandon her-

-Of course he wouldn't. Out of the question. Not her own beloved raven. They're married for crying out loud, soulmates bound together for better or worse.

Right?

Teyla frowns at the screen. "Even as I feel obligated to be attending in person I must admit I am also glad not to be. I do not like the idea of him sniffing around me or my unborn child." She shifts uncomfortably in her seat, wincing.

McKay's eyes flick from the tablet to her. "Hey, you okay? You're not in labor or anything yet, are you?"

"No, Rodney. My son is quite restless today, that is all. I think both of us are more than ready to give birth soon."

Becky can't stop staring at Teyla's expanded belly in fascination, realizing she'll be in a similar condition months from now. "May I?"

"Of course."

Her eyes widen as the baby kicks under her hand. "Wow, he's active. I gotta admit I really admire you, having a child in a dangerous galaxy, with the Wraith-" She catches herself, flushing. "Sorry."

"-With the Wraith as a constant threat?" A gentle, understanding smile. "I take no offense at your words, for Daniel wondered much the same the other day. While I appreciate your concern I have faith in the future. Life goes on no matter the circumstances or degree of danger, though caution is always well-advised."

Teyla's right, of course. Becky wishes she could be as serene in accepting the upcoming changes to her own body in the next seven months. Or the rest of her life, for that matter. From now on she has to think not merely in terms of her and Daniel but the new life growing within, making them a family.

And she's painfully aware of her own flaws, to boot. Ordinarily she takes pains to plan ahead as best she's able, envisioning solutions to problems that don't yet exist. But now a host of unknown variables lie ahead, so many choices to make on the best way to provide for their child. Knowing how she gets when bogged down in details- as with Operation Astria- just adds to the anxiety.

Not to mention the bigger picture. Though there's finally a chance for peace in both galaxies no doubt some new threat might come along at any moment to threaten everything they've worked so hard to achieve. How can she possibly handle having a baby in the face of such uncertainty?

Is this what her own parents worried about, raising her and Chris? Does the feeling ever go away?

All of a sudden it's too much. She's swallows hard, mouth going dry, breathing in quick ragged bursts, heart pounding faster.

Rodney gapes at her. "Oh god, you're having a panic attack, aren't you? You can't get hysterical now, I'm the one who's supposed to get hysterical. Stop usurping my hysteria!"

"You are not helping," Teyla says in mild reproof. Bronze-skinned hands rest lightly on her shoulders. "Becky, listen to my words. Take deep breaths and calm yourself. Forget the past and the future, focus only on the present. Open your mind and embrace the silence..." The pacifying words wash over her, helping her to relax and get her emotions under control again.

"Okay, I'm better now. Thank you."

"You are welcome. Are you concerned about your own pregnancy?"

"Yeah. I don't know why I'm reacting this way. It's a sign I'm gonna be a terrible mother, isn't it?"

McKay snorts. "Please. Hysteria is SOP for motherhood. My sister Jeannie was in tears for most of her pregnancy with Madison, just ask her when you get back to New Earth."

Becky blinks at him. "Jeannie Miller in Astrophysics is your sister? I completely forgot about that."

He shrugs. "Yes, well. We prefer not to make a big fuss over the connection. Notoriety, family ties, that sort of thing."

"Well, even if it is SOP it's not what I expected. Instead of being happy and excited- or even calm and rational- I'm having a panic attack."

"Your anxiety is perfectly natural," Teyla says reassuringly. "It does not mean you are unfit. You are strong in body and spirit. There is nothing you cannot overcome, especially with Daniel by your side."

"I wish I could believe you. We're such introverts, we may never really be comfortable sharing our lives with a child for the next eighteen years."

"I do not see that happening. You and Daniel are both adaptable, caring and compassionate, with a great capacity for love. You may even surprise yourselves by how much you enjoy it. And you have friends and family in two galaxies ready to assist when you need it. Most importantly, you have each other. Rodney and I are certain you will be excellent parents. Are we not?" shooting him a pointed glance.

He absently waves a hand, attention already back on his tablet. "Yes, yes, of course. Brilliant and conscientious, though one can only hope any children you have will choose to be real scientists when they grow up."

"Gee, thanks for the vote of confidence." Becky shares an exasperated look with Teyla. "Seriously, I'm sorry for breaking down like this. I don't know what came over me."

"There is no need to apologize. My pregnancy was also unexpected and like you I was once full of doubt. But Kanaan and I have come to see this as a rare and precious chance to bring new life into the universe. You and Daniel have been similarly blessed. Be at peace, Ring-sister, and have faith that only good will come of this."

Becky nods, taking heart from her optimism. "I'll try to remember that. Thanks for the advice."

"It is my pleasure," as they clasp hands and touch foreheads.

The door slides open. John and Elizabeth enter, her expression thoughtful, his bemused yet cautious.

"Did you get an agreement?" Becky asks.

"A start, at the very least," Elizabeth says. "Todd's beamed back aboard his ship with our initial terms and they should be leaving orbit shortly. Hopefully his queen and the rest of the Peace Faction will accept, though undoubtedly there's a lot more work ahead of us before an agreement can be reached. Who knows how the other Hives will react once word gets out, but for now we have reason to hope for the best."

"Even as we keep one hand on our weapons all the while," John adds with a wry smile.

"A wise decision," Teyla agrees. "This is wonderful news- Oh!" She winces, clutching at her abdomen.

He blinks at her. "Hey, you going into labor?"

"I already asked her that," Rodney grumbles, annoyed.

She's panting now. "I do not know. Jennifer said I ought to be having what she calls Braxton-Hicks contractions any time now but this does not feel like false labor to me- Ah!" She grimaces and liquid trickles down her legs.

John swallows. "I'll say. I think your water just broke."

"Then we haven't much time to get you to the infirmary." Elizabeth smiles and reaches for her communicator, unruffled as ever in a crisis. "In light of the circumstances we'll hold off on the debriefing. I'll let Carson and Jennifer know you're coming. Is Kanaan offworld today?"

"Yeah, a trading mission with AR-4," he replies, slinging Teyla's arm around his neck in support. "They should be back directly. I'll tell the Gateroom to pass the word along. C'mon Teyla, let's get you outta here."

"Yes, I believe that is a very good idea," she says faintly.

Ronon's waiting in the hallway with the marines, his eyebrows lifting in surprise to see Teyla groaning and nearly doubled over. "The baby?"

"Yep." John's grinning. "We're gonna be uncles soon, big guy. Rodney, you might want to stay in the waiting room when we get there."

A toothy grin as Ronon supports her on the other side. "Yeah, he hates the sight of blood."

Rodney rolls his eyes. "Oh, hardy har har. I'll be right there in the delivery room with you two. Someone has to keep an eye on the voodoo Carson and Jennifer are bound to perform on her."

Teyla groans. "Your concern is appreciated but could we please go to the infirmary now? I am in dire need of lying down."

"Of course you are! You're in labor! Really, why are you two just standing around like a couple of oafs? Let's get her out of here."

Elizabeth watches the four of them trundle in the direction of the nearest transporter alcove with a fond smile, shaking her head.

Becky bites her lip and hangs back, for the first time feeling like an outsider.

"Hey, little sis." John's smirking at her over his shoulder. "You coming or what?"


After a round of wandering the city Daniel winds up in the Gateroom, studying the pointillated patterns that make up the Gate's glyphs without really looking at them.

He really should've been present at the negotiations with the Wraith but he'd been too ashamed to face Becky, much less respond to her on the communicator. Even though the isolation helped him come to terms with everything he fears she'll see his running away as a betrayal, the very thing Mac had cautioned against during the bachelor party.

He can only hope she'll forgive him, someday.

"Dr. Jackson?" Chuck queries from his console. "You might want to step away from the Gate. AR-4 is due to arrive any minute now."

"Oh, of course. Sorry." Obediently backing away, then turning and heading for the stairs up to the gallery.

Elizabeth's working in her office as he passes by. She looks up and beckons to him.

He enters, uncomfortably reminded of being called in to see the principal when he was thirteen. "Um, hi. How did the negotiations go?"

"Fairly well, I think. Only time will tell if anything really changes concerning the Wraith."

"It always does." He digs the toe of his boot into the Ancient flooring material. "Sorry for not showing up earlier."

"It's okay, Becky explained why. Came as quite a shock, didn't it?" Her look is sympathetic. "For what it's worth I think you both will make wonderful parents."

"Thanks, I sure hope so. Where is she now?"

"In the infirmary with John, Rodney and Ronon. Teyla's gone into labor."

He blinks in mild surprise. "Already? I knew she was close, but not that close."

"Babies come on their own schedule, not ours," she wryly notes. "Or so my mother told me once."

Behind them the Gate makes its usual kawoosh as it activates. Neither pays it any mind until there's a whoop and they catch a glimpse of Kanaan making a beeline for the transporter with direct access to the infirmary, the rest of AR-4 cheering him on as they lag behind.

Daniel stares after him, worrying at his lower lip. "Um, guess I'd better head there myself."

Elizabeth smiles. "A very good idea."

Time to face the music.


When he arrives Kannan's already in the delivery room, the waiting area filled with curious personnel and well-wishers, among them Zelenka, Cadman, the Lornes and Xiaoli.

Becky's sitting apart with a hand on her abdomen, her expression distant. His brave, beautiful hummingbird, as ever lost in thought.

Daniel feels a surge of tenderness. He'll do whatever it takes to ensure their child- and any that might follow in future- grow up happy, safe and above all loved.

A few quick steps and he takes her hands to pull up from her seat, enfolding her in an embrace and capturing her lips for a long, slow and deep kiss.

She draws back, blinking. "Oh. Hey. Where have you been?"

"Had to clear my head for a while. Sorry about running off like that, I didn't mean to hurt you."

"It's okay, I'm sorry about spooking you too." A wry smile. "Seems to be my day for making grown men run away from me."

"Well, you can be pretty intimidating." She swats him lightly on the arm and he chuckles. "How's Teyla?"

"Hanging in there, last I heard. Listen, about earlier-"

A finger rests lightly on her lips. "We'll talk later. For now I just want to sit here with you, okay?" He settles her back onto the bench, kissing the top of her head. She leans gratefully against him and links their hands together.

Half an hour later Teyla cries out in triumph, followed by a baby's wail. Everyone turns expectantly towards the delivery room door as it opens.

John stands there with hands on hips, looking smug. "It's a boy. His name is Torren John and he's perfect. Teyla's doing great. And Rodney's completely speechless!" He breaks into a wide grin as everyone cheers and applauds.

"Wow, what a day," Becky remarks, blinking away tears. "Starts off with an invasion and ends in a miracle. Life's pretty amazing sometimes, isn't it?"

Daniel beams at her, his hand lightly caressing her cheek. "Yeah. It is."


The main room is bathed in the vivid colors of sunset outside the large picture window when they return to the apartment late afternoon, after congratulating Teyla and cooing over newborn Torren.

Early autumn in Atlantis. Once more ZPMs are grown the city will embark on its twice-yearly migration, John flying the city for a short hop over the equator, relocating to the southern hemisphere before the long winter sets in.

Daniel leans back against the deceptively soft cushions of the couch, contemplating the new adventure in front of him. One that will last the rest of his life if he's lucky.

He's ready to accept whatever the future holds but can't help wondering if Becky feels the same. She's prone to self-doubt, requiring a lot of reassurance when it comes to life-changing decisions. He wants to prove his devotion to her, and to the child growing within. Anything she needs, whether in words or deeds, he'll gladly provide.

She comes in from the bathroom and sits at the other end of the couch, picking up her book then setting it down just as quickly. Glances at him and bites her lip, desiring contact yet reluctant to initiate.

He holds out his hand in invitation. "Come here."

She slides onto his lap, resting her head on his shoulder as his arms encircle her. "We won't be able to do this for much longer," she observes with a wry smile. "Or at least not so comfortably."

"Best enjoy it while we can, then, hmm?" Stroking her hair and planting a kiss to her temple.

They lapse into a familiar companionable silence. One of the best things about their relationship, no undue pressure to talk if neither feels like it.

"It's my fault," she says at length.

"No, it isn't. My running away had nothing to do with you. Really."

"Then what was it? Thinking about your parents?"

"Mostly. Also something that happened on Abdyos."

"I'm all ears."

"Once Jack, Ferretti and Kawalsky disappeared through the Gate I started to think seriously about putting down roots and raising a family with Sha're, a sentiment eagerly endorsed by Kasuf. But she never got pregnant. I was disappointed for a while but she accepted it as the will of the gods. And after discovering the temple room with the Gate addresses I'm ashamed to admit I stopped giving it any more thought.

"Then Jack showed up again with Sam and the others, and I lost Sha're to Apophis. When I saw her a few years later she was bearing a child that wasn't mine and it bothered me to no end. I didn't know if I was to blame, somehow.

"It wasn't until much later I recalled how every night we drank what Sha're called a 'special tea' just before bedtime, made specially for us by Ira'shu the settlement's herbalist and her aunt, a crotchety and suspicious old woman if ever there was one. While the rest of the community hailed me as their savior she was certain I'd tire of her niece and disappear through the Gate, even went so far as saying it to my face one time. I callously thought it a refreshing change from everyone bowing to me and paid it no mind." A rueful smile. "Never imagined she'd actively interfere by slipping us a contraceptive brew, though."

"So when Sha're was taken to be host for Amaunet she lost access to the tea," Becky muses. "Which is why you found her pregnant later with Shifu the Harcesis."

He nods, his eyes stinging at the unexpected surge of bittersweet, painful memories. Becky squeezes his hand in sympathy, patiently waiting for him to recover his composure. "After he was born I had a vision and realized anyone would see him the same way, as a potential weapon instead of an individual, the temptation to use his inbred knowledge was that great. Fortunately an Ascended Ancient woman named Oma Desala tabled the issue, placing him under her protection and spiriting him off to who knows where. Sometimes I wonder what happened to him- What is it?" at her thoughtful frown.

"Dunno, but I swear I've heard that name somewhere before. It's probably nothing." She's shivering all the same.

He picks up a nearby blanket, wrapping it around them. She protests but he stops her from shaking it off. "Leave it on for me, please? I know you hate being cold."

She sighs. "Just because I'm pregnant doesn't mean you have to treat me like some fragile flower, for crying out loud. I thought you knew better."

"I can't help it. The well-being of my assistant's very important to me."

A faint smile at the old joke. He's always seen her more as an equal than a subordinate, and she knows it. "Clearly, I married a lunatic."

"Don't let Jack find out. I like to keep him guessing." He winks outrageously and she chuckles.

"Too true." She pauses. "You never did answer my question from earlier, whether you're okay with this or not."

"I am, but it matters more to me that you are. It's your body after all, I'll respect your wishes no matter what. Do you want to have children?"

Her gaze turns inward, less like communing with the AIs and more like seriously considering the question. "I think I do, though until today I've been under the impression you didn't. Guess I figured you'd be afraid of history repeating itself, given what you went through as a kid."

He shrugs. "Have to admit I did, for a while. But after Zero Hour I've come to believe our lives don't have to be defined by the past. We have the freedom to learn from our mistakes, make smarter choices, take better chances. And if we fail at least it'll be the consequence of our own decisions."

"Sounds like you're paraphrasing someone very wise."

He smiles, stroking her hair. "She is. You said that, during the Memorial."

A faintly derisive snort. "Kinda naive, considering everything that's happened since."

"I don't think so. People have really taken your words to heart since then. Look at everything we've accomplished so far- building the settlement and defending it, discovering and colonizing Atlantis, developing the Stargate Commonwealth. All of that living proof anything's possible once we set our minds to it."

"I'm so sorry about you and Sha're. I don't know what I'd do if you were taken from me like that."

"You don't need to worry about me. I'm not going anywhere."

She pulls back, reaching up to cup the side of his face. "No, it's more than that. I'd be lost without you, raven. You're my other half. You understand me like no one else, not even my uncles for all the sympathy in the world. There's nothing in the universe I would trade for being by your side the rest of our lives."

"Neither would I," melting a little inside at her heartfelt words, the quiet conviction behind them. "I don't know what I'd do without you either. You're the only thing keeping me grounded. I'm looking forward to raising a family and growing old with you."

"So am I." Tears well up in her eyes, trickling down her cheek. "Dammit," she mutters, wiping them away with the back of her hand. "You're not gonna want me when my whole body's out of whack, what with the weight gain and backaches and loss of bladder control and emotions all over the place and never finding a comfortable position to sit or lie down and-"

Daniel knows from experience the best way to silence Becky when she gets flustered and starts to babble is with a kiss. After a moment's hesitation she responds willingly.

When they finally pull apart he cradles her face in his hands. "Oh, my hummingbird. I'll always want you, no matter what the mirror says. I intend to worship every inch of you as often as possible to prove it."

A flush tints her cheeks. "Flatterer. You really think we'll be okay?"

He thinks of Teyla's words in the marketplace, the voice of a survivor growing up with hardship and devastation yet dedicating her life to a brighter future for her child and the galaxy as a whole. "More than that, I have faith. And besides, whatever happens the two of us will figure it out like we do everything else. Together."

"The three of us, you mean."

"You're right, the three of us," linking their hands and setting them on her abdomen. Almost certain he can feel a connection to the new life growing within, conceived in purest love.

She curls up against his chest and he rests his chin on her head. "So we're having a baby, huh?"

He smiles softly, blinking away his own tears. "Yeah. We are."


Becky tugs on the zipper of the go bag, wondering how to cram the last few remaining items in their luggage. Both she and Daniel have accumulated many souvenirs since they arrived in Atlantis- trinkets from market worlds, wall hangings by Deyna, Ancient artifacts loaned for study and assorted wedding gifts.

On the floor beside her lies a wicker hamper, gifted by Teyla yesterday on behalf of the Athosians and filled with enough soft woven bedding, baby wraps, carrying slings and cloth diapers to last for two or more pregnancies. After hearing about the custom from Alex she and the other ladies threw her an early baby shower, followed later that night by a citywide celebration for the cease-fire agreement with Todd as well as a farewell for her and Daniel. No one knows how to party like the Lanteans, though Gateway comes a close second these days.

Since infighting has broken out between the Peace Faction and other Hives, the last four weeks of their 'working honeymoon' have been calm and uneventful by Atlantis standards. Though just last week she, Daniel and McKay finally accomplished their primary objective, locating one of Janus' secret labs in a remote section of the city. An offhanded remark by a young lab assistant led them to a secret suite of rooms concealed by holographic projection in a dead-end corridor, and Rodney wasted no time in cracking its musical lock through harmonic resonance. The wealth of discoveries in the lab are sure to keep him and his minions happily occupied for a long time to come.

Daniel's a little irked that McKay grabbed most of the credit for himself but she takes it in stride, reminding him these days the only incentive is their continued survival. As it is those in the know just roll their eyes when he won't stop boasting to all and sundry.

They're more than ready to return home anyway. Even Daniel's had his fill of Ancient knowledge for a while, having collected enough material for several papers plus articles for Rosetta, the SGC's in-house multidisciplinary scientific journal.

Daniel comes in, suspiciously keeping his hands behind his back. "Um, I found something you left behind in the other room."

She scowls down at the bulging bags. "I'm not surprised. Always happens when I'm packing last minute. What is it?"

"This," flourishing what uncannily resembles a stuffed teddy bear, covered in off-white fur with black button eyes. With help from Daniel it waves its right paw at her. "Hi. Can you help me? I'm looking for a friend to cuddle."

Her lips twitch. "Gee I don't know, Mr. Bear. Do you mind waiting a few more months?" She takes it from him, admiring the handiwork. "He's adorable. Don't tell me you found him in this galaxy."

He nods. "Right here in Atlantis, actually. One of the refugees is a tailor who repairs the colony's uniforms, and when Teyla announced her pregnancy John put in a custom order. The tailor was very intrigued by the notion of making a variety of stuffed Old Earth and Pegasus creatures to comfort the children, and he's been flooded with orders ever since. In fact he's had to hire extra staff."

"Good for the tailor, and good for John, too. He's lobbying hard to be the Cool Uncle for our kid, though he'll have to get in line behind Jack and Mac. You know, I think he wants to be a dad someday himself, even though his relationship with his own father wasn't all that great."

"Really? Maybe he and Rodney should adopt one of the refugee kids."

She grins. "You haven't heard the latest, then. The other day Teyla took Torren to his month-old checkup and they tagged along. Naturally they started bickering- over what, Radek had no idea. Quite by accident they managed to touch one of the Ancient artificial incubators at the same time, which immediately accepted both samples of their DNA."

His eyes widen. "You don't mean-"

"Uh-huh. Their child is developing in an incubator as we speak. Radek said he's never seen them so flabbergasted at the same time before."

He groans, lifting his glasses to rub at the bridge of his nose. "A Sheppard-McKay child. God help us."

"Only in Atlantis," she agrees with a wry smile. "The universe will never be the same. Good thing we don't have to stick around to watch any potential progeny develop. As much as I love it here I must admit I'm looking forward to getting back home to New Earth."

"I never thought I'd hear myself say it either, but so am I," he admits. "Never mind that for now, I have a very important question for you. Which would you rather cuddle- me or the bear?"

"The bear," she says promptly, then with an impish grin at his dejected expression, "while you cuddle me."

He beams at her, pulling her close with the teddy still in her arms. "As my lady commands."

Teyla's right, she's hardly alone. Not with friends and family in two galaxies to support her.

And most importantly her own beloved husband. Partners in every sense now- professionally, romantically, and as parents-to-be.

Until death and whatever lies beyond.


The gang's waiting for them when they return to New Earth. Daniel's grateful Chuck agreed not to spill the beans before they left, as it allows him and Becky the opportunity to break the news themselves. It's the first time he's ever seen both Jack and Sam rendered completely speechless without alien influence.

Even though Carson gave Becky a clean bill of health before they Gated back to New Earth Janet nevertheless insists she spend the afternoon in the base infirmary, going over the results with Dr. Hayashi as head of the OB/GYN unit and Cassie as midwife-in-training.

The next night Jack and Sam host a casual combination welcome-back-and-congratulations dinner in their honor, then afterwards sit outside around the firepit in their middle of their residential square. Each couple is wrapped up snug against the chill in the air, cuddling and sipping at mugs of klah.

Daniel draws Becky close and tenderly nuzzles her ear, smiling at the delicate flush tinting her cheeks. Good thing they brought back more of those Athosian blankets.

It's the perfect time to catch up on all the latest New Earth gossip. Things are peaceful so far in the Milky Way, their trading network and nascent commonwealth regaining the power and influence lost to Ba'al's machinations. Though he hasn't surfaced lately no one doubts he's plotting his comeback in some dusty corner of the galaxy.

Cam and Vala are having a ball along with Jonas and Holt as the all-new, all-different SG-1, the scrapes they get into rivaling those of the original team's early days.

Sam's settled in comfortably as both Head of Science and Deputy General-Governor, enjoying the freedom that comes without the constant pressure of regular missions, save for when her expertise is required offworld. Daniel plans on adopting a similar scheme for him and Becky in their own modest department.

Teal'c is currently with his family in Dakara, serving as informal ambassador to New Earth and seconding Master Bra'tac who is presiding as Chief Elder of the Council of Tribes. (When he hears later about Becky's pregnancy his return message reads simply Felicitations, Daniel Jackson and Becky Grahme-Jackson. Your progeny will be most fortunate to have you as parents, and bring you much honor in return. I await the introduction with great anticipation. He always did have a way with words.)

In retrospect Daniel's glad the team broke up when they did, as their current peace and prosperity allows for other activities to take priority- consulting on the occasional mission, further cultivating the alliances and treaties that comprise the framework for the burgeoning Stargate Commonwealth, and instructing the department's latest crop of apprentice scientists.

And raising a family, which appears to be on everyone's mind lately. All night Jack's had this rather goofy smile on his face, and Sam's eyes never stop twinkling. Janet also looks like she has a secret to share.

For his part Daniel can't seem to stop smiling either. And while Becky hasn't started to show there's this glow about her now that she's accepted her new status as mother-to-be.

"So," Jack says to Mac. "Guess you and I are gonna be granduncles, huh? Dunno if I'm ready yet to be a grumpy old man, though."

"Know what you mean. Remember how Harry always told us not to call him Grandpa 'cause it made him feel old?"

"He said I could," Becky chimes in with a laugh. "Apparently being called Great-Grandpa made him feel even older!"

Mac grins at her. "Well since you put it that way, maybe it won't be so bad. How about you, Jack?"

"Lemme get back to you on that," with his trademark smirk. "By an amazing coincidence Sam and I have something similar to tell ya."

She flashes her own megawatt smile. "We honestly didn't expect to have kids, considering what our bodies have been through in the past eleven years. So for me being pregnant is nothing short of a minor miracle."

"And you're doing great," Janet asserts. "Both of you are. I asked a personal favor of Hayashi, she's assigning Cassie to both your cases. She'll run herself ragged looking after you two but I'm certain she'll love every minute of it."

"Good thing she's found a job she can enjoy," Becky agrees. "Judging by that smile on your face I bet you and Mac have news of your own."

Her smile is impish. "Well, as a matter of fact I did receive some test results yesterday..."

Mac gapes at her. "But we just adopted that abandoned baby boy we found offworld during a vaccination mission two weeks ago. Don't tell me you're pregnant for real?"

"Yep. For the last six weeks- Mac, are you about to faint on me?"

"Just a little dazed, I think," swiping a hand over his face. "Wow. Guess we've got our work cut out for us."

Jack chortles. "Admit it, you'll have the time of your life looking after a baby and a toddler at the same time. Good thing Cassie can take care of herself." His twin throws him a baleful glare.

"Yeah, Unc," Becky adds with a smirk. "Sounds like all those years of bachelorhood are catching up with a vengeance. And how about you, Jack? You ready to be a dad again?"

"I sure am." A hint of sadness in his eyes but his voice is calm and certain. Sam takes his hand in hers and squeezes it as he kisses her hair in return. "Kinda wacko, isn't it? The universe sure has a twisted sense of humor."

"No kidding. Three pregnancies around the same time, go figure." Mac shakes his head. "I mean sheesh, what are the odds?"

"Astronomical, or pretty close to it," Sam notes with a wry smile.

"But not surprising either," Janet points out. "Considering our menstrual cycles have been synced for years. It's known to occur among women in close proximity to each other."

Jack squirms in his chair. "Aw c'mon. Enough already. Can't we talk about fishing instead?"

"Yes, please," Mac groans.

"Anything but that," Daniel finds himself agreeing, even as Becky pins him with a raised eyebrow. He shrugs.

She rolls her eyes. "Jeez, you guys are pathetic! Ready to take on whatever bad guys the universe can throw at us but completely grossed out when we talk about our periods or anything else related to our bodies."

"Part of our charm," Jack quips.

Sam socks him on the arm. "You better get used to it for the next several months, buster. And if you think we'll be shirking our regular duties at the same time you've got another thought coming. We're not some fragile invalids, you know."

"That's just what I told Daniel," Becky notes with a wry smile. "Somehow I don't think he entirely believes me."

He nearly chokes on a mouthful of klah. "I just want to make sure you're warm enough! You've been complaining of being more sensitive to cold than usual, that's all."

Mac nods sagely. "Doesn't surprise me in the least. Allison was the same with both her pregnancies."

Becky's face falls at the mention of her mother. "God, I wish she was here to give me advice."

Both uncles share a sympathetic glance. Mac reaches over, touching her shoulder. "We do too, Beck. But you're not alone, we're here for each other. Just like always."

She smiles faintly, her hand covering his in return. "I know, Unc. Thanks."

"Ladies, we'll do our best to keep your independence firmly in mind so feel free to smack us at any time if we ever slip up," Jack says, slipping an arm around Sam's shoulders. "But know that we won't take a back seat either. We're in this for the long haul. Right, guys?"

"You bet," Mac holds Janet close, his eyes shining.

"Absolutely." Daniel beams adoringly down at his beloved, acutely aware he's one of the three luckiest men in two galaxies. All that time growing up without real family, to wind up in the middle of one bound together by love, shared experiences and a fierce loyalty.

The universe is truly a remarkable place.


Becky wakes in the night, her eyes darting around her surroundings. Blinking at the contours and textures of their bedroom highlighted by lavender moonlight trickling through the curtains, hearing soft footsteps marking the night watch on their rounds, domesticated felines yowling to each other in the distance, and faint music and laughter from the neighborhood eatery and gathering spot two squares over. She relaxes, completely at ease with the familiar, comforting sounds of nocturnal settlement life.

No presence of quasi-telepathic Ancient conveniences here, but that's okay. Though she and Daniel are proud to be honorary citizens of Atlantis their true work is here in the Milky Way, with the SGC and Huy-Braesealis.

New Earth is home. Their planet, their responsibility. There's much to do.

Daniel mumbles something half-awake, one arm flailing in her direction, seeking her. She scoots over, letting him tug her against his lean, muscular form.

"Raven," she croons, her hands lightly smoothing his hair and trailing along his neck and shoulders down to his arms. Kissing the smooth skin nearest her as he curls around her in instinctual response.

"Hummingbird," he breathes. "And our fledgling."

"The size of a kumquat now, according to Cassie."

"Growing all the time," rubbing his hand over her abdomen in sleepy blessing. "Love you both."

"We love you too." She snuggles in even closer, perfectly content to be surrounded and supported by her beloved. Soaking up all the warmth and strength he has to offer.

This is where she belongs, safe and secure in his arms. Anticipating the arrival of their child-to-be and future cousins.

This is everything she wants, everything she needs.

This is perfection.

It really is.


Notes: Quick mention of S03 E20, "Maternal Instinct"

Hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday season, dear readers. May you and your loved ones (close by or socially-distanced) enjoy some well-deserved peace and tranquility after the wild year we've all had.