-Year 23 of Settlement-
Palm leaves rustle overhead on the roof of their shelter, throwing dappled patches of sun and shadow over closed eyelids.
Becky stirs, yawning and stretching. "Daniel?"
"Hmm?" He raises a hand to rub at his eyes, only to smash the book over his face further against his nose. "Ow."
She snickers.
"Not funny," comes the muffled reply.
"It's a little funny. That's what happens when you fall asleep reading."
He sets the book aside and turns to hover over her, smirking. "Like you've never done the same. How often have you sacked out on the couch with a book, hmm?"
"I have no idea what you're talking about." Perfectly deadpan.
He chuckles and leans in for a long, tender kiss. Fifteen years together as life companions and parents, their passion not diminishing by one bit.
A playful shriek breaks the intimate moment. Becky grabs for her glasses and sits up, squinting across the sand to the shoreline.
Normally a favorite vacation spot for SGC families today they have the beach all to themselves. Sunlight sparkles on indigo waves, the roar of the surf and soft swish of palm trees counterparts to the tinkling laughter of their children. Wind churns water into sea foam, stirs up tiny whirlpools of fine pink sand and whips hair around their faces as they alternate between playing tag and flying a yellow kite, bare feet skipping along the water's edge.
All three have brown hair, but Allia's has blond highlights like Daniel's, her eyes a startling blue-green. That of her younger siblings is touched with auburn in the sun, their eyes as blue as the Gate's event horizon. She's fifteen, the twins twelve.
Thankfully none of them have inherited their parents' bad eyesight.
Allia has control of the kite for now, quiet and studious though with a broad mischievous streak cultivated by her uncles. Tomorrow begins her mandatory four-year apprenticeship period, splitting the time between Atlantis and New Earth then following her parents into the social sciences, though of course they would support her no matter what she chose to do with her life.
She hands the string over to Nicholas after he asks for it, face scrunching with the effort of keeping the kite aloft. His even temperament and intuitive sense of fair play mark him for diplomatic training under Elizabeth and Begay in three years' time. Hammond had passed away just before the twins were born, so Nick's middle name is fitting tribute for the "Gentle Gentleman General," as he was affectionately known by military and civilians alike.
In a surprise move Catherine snatches the kite string from him, trailing it behind her as she sprints ahead. More audacious, athletic, energetic and outspoken than either her twin or older sister, a future leader and motivator. Her favorite Uncle Jack is a big influence in her life, as evidenced by her desire to join the NEDF as a trainee.
Becky envies their youthful energy. Though she and Daniel keep their bodies in good shape middle age is beginning to trip them up in all manner of surprising and frankly disconcerting ways. For her part the faint puckered scar on her right shoulder aches when the weather gets bad, and nightmares invade her dreams now and again. Fortunately both are banished with ease in the arms of her raven.
Still, she can't complain. She has everything she needs- a fulfilling career, loyal friends and family, amazing children and a devoted husband.
Really, she ought to be content.
But there's a hole in her heart, devastating loss that brings her to her knees even now.
Christopher Melburn, their youngest. Her miracle baby. Died when he was three, fever from an offworld illness making the rounds of the settlement.
Today would've been his eighth birthday.
With a pang she recalls his bright smiles, his giggles every time they picked him up. All of their kids are sweethearts but he was surely the sweetest in her eyes.
A memory from long ago surfaces, Sara sitting at the kitchen table, bereft and alone after losing her son to a gun accident and her husband disappearing without a word, lost in his own grief. The suppressed rage and sorrow in her voice, the bleakness in her gaze for the injustice of it all.
Becky can finally relate. Parents should never have to bury their children.
Her eyes sting with tears. Or maybe it's just sea spray carried on the wind.
A gentle touch on her cheek, Daniel regarding her with loving concern. "What's wrong?"
"Just thinking about Chris. He would've loved being here today."
A shadow crosses over his face. "Yeah."
Nothing more needs to be said. He slips an arm around her shoulders and she leans into him, grateful for his support.
Youthful laughter drags her attention back to the present. She wipes her face, welcoming the distraction from her morbid thoughts.
Keep your feet on the ground, girl.
"They're having fun," Daniel fondly observes.
"Uh-huh. Reminds me of trips to the Oregon Coast growing up. Everything about those days so perfect and golden, I was certain they'd last forever."
"They do so long as you have the memories. Just like today's will for the rest of our lives."
She smiles faintly, reaching to cup his cheek. "When did you get so wise, raven?"
"The day you married me, hummingbird," kissing the palm. He rests his cheek on top of her head.
"Any gray up there?"
"Nope, only signs of your wisdom and courage."
She snorts. "Just means I'm getting old."
"Never." He checks his watch. "We should leave soon. They're dialing Atlantis early tomorrow."
She sighs and nods agreement, reluctant to leave the idyllic afternoon behind.
As they stand she takes a moment to appreciate her husband, trim with the slightest hint of middle-age spread, laugh lines crinkling around his eyes and the corners of his mouth. Hair touched with gray at the temples, its longer length secretly pleasing Becky as she loves playing with it during their intimate times.
He's everything to her. Loving partner and best friend, devoted husband and father. Essential in so many ways, their connection transcending the physical.
She doesn't know how she could ever live without him. She hopes she never has to.
As if aware of her appraisal he turns to her and smirks. "Like what you see?"
"Do I ever." Winding her arms around his neck, bringing his lips to hers for a passionate kiss.
"Ew, mushy stuff!" They pull away to find Catherine sticking her tongue out, hands on hips. "For crying out loud, do you really have to do that all the time? Kissing's gross."
Daniel laughs and ruffles her hair. "Your Uncle Jack's a bad influence. It's no different than when we kiss your cheek or forehead, to show affection."
"Are there cultures where people don't do that?" Nick wonders.
"Seems to be pretty universal but there are always exceptions. Why don't we do some research tonight at home?"
Becky clears her throat. "Speaking of which, it's time to leave. Get dressed and help us pack." She stops their protests with a raised finger, just like Jack and her own mom. "You know the rules- have fun, but clean up after yourselves. That way you show respect for the environment and others."
Their shoulders slump as they take in the towels, toys and picnic things scattered around their shelter, sighing in unison. "Yes, Mom."
Behind her Daniel snickers and she rounds on him. "You know I hate playing the heavy when it comes to the kids. You could back me up every once in a while."
"Oh, I could," he drawls, eyes twinkling. "Only watching you take charge is a real turn-on for me."
She swats him with a towel. "Not in front of the kids. Now get to work."
"Yes, my lady. Your every wish is my command." She rolls her eyes but lets him steal a kiss or two.
"Mom and Dad are being weird again," Catherine complains to Nick.
He shrugs. "Grownups are always weird. Uncle Jack and Aunt Sam act like that too, when they think we're not looking. Same for Uncle Mac and Aunt Janet."
She grimaces. "Oh, yeah. Adults and their mushy stuff. Yuck."
Becky can't help but smile.
As a condition of their treaty with the natives of PX7-248 (where she and Daniel had their first unofficial offworld marriage lest she be sacrificed to a volcano) a private beach and small collection of huts have been set aside for the use of SGC personnel and their families. From there it's a short walk on a well-kept pathway to the Gate.
"So, who wants to help dial us home?" Daniel asks by the DHD.
Nick raises his hand. "I do!"
"Come on over, then. Remember the address for New Earth?" Their son's tall enough to reach most of the glyphs save for the ones on the upper rim. It takes both of them to push on the central red crystal.
The kids cheer as the chevrons lock in sequence and the event horizon forms. None of their children find Gate travel the least bit scary, so different from her own initial apprehension before taking that first small step. They're much braver than she was growing up.
Hand in hand Nick and Catherine skip through the blue-white shimmer with ease thanks to their own IDC chips. Allia hangs back, head cocked as if listening.
Becky shares a concerned glance with Daniel and lightly touches her arm. "What is it, sweet?"
"It's singing to me," a faint note of wonder in her voice.
According to Carson she's the only one of the three to have a strong expression of the ATA gene, which comes as no surprise. When she was five she carried on whole conversations with imaginary friends called Huey and Lannie, who were later revealed to be the AIs of both cities. Becky has a gut feeling they inserted a portion of themselves into Allia's mind once her brain was sufficiently developed.
Huy-Braesealis?
~Yes, Domina.~
Am I right in assuming she's going to succeed me as Domina someday?
~You are. I recommend a formal induction once she completes her apprenticeship. When the time is right she will be prepared to assume your duties.~
Such a heavy responsibility to rest on her shoulders. I hope she'll be up to the challenge.
~Do not fear for your daughter, she will do very well as my representative. Indeed, our destinies are forever linked through her descendants. Rest assured your people are under my protection for all time.~
Understood. Thank you.
~Your servant, Domina.~
"Becky? You okay?" She blinks at Daniel waving his hand in front of her face. He's used to her internal conversations with the AI but he still worries.
"I'm fine. C'mon Allia, they're waiting for us. Do you want me to hold your hand?"
"Only if Dad does, too," smiling shyly up at him.
He beams down at her. "Always, agapiménos."
As they emerge Ed Perkins and his team are indulgently listening to Catherine's breathless recitation as they wait to be dialed out. "-So we made a huge sandcastle but the tide started coming in and we couldn't do anything to stop it and then we had lunch and flew the kite Uncle Mac made for us and-"
"Enough, Catherine," Daniel says, suppressing a smile. "Let's not take up any more of the Major's time. Sorry about that, once she gets started she doesn't know when to stop."
"No worries, Dr. Jackson," Perkins cheerfully replies. "I'm used to it at home. Jolene's a regular chatterbox these days. By the way, her birthday party's in a week when you guys get back from Atlantis. She and Tyrell would really like Catherine and Nick to stay the night if that's okay."
Nick's eyes light up, and Catherine practically bounces on her toes. "Yay, a slumber party! Can we go, Mon and Dad? Please?"
It's hard for Becky to deny them anything when they deploy that wide-eyed pleading look inherited from their dad, who's fortunately more immune. "We'll talk about it later," he promises.
"Good luck with your apprenticeship," Ed says to Allia. "I'm sure you'll do your parents proud."
"Thank you, Major. I hope so."
"So where are you guys off to?" Becky asks, winking at Ellington, Chandani and Morales who grin right back at her. She'd helped Ed select them when he was first forming his secondary diplomatic team, ensuring he had the best possible candidates.
"Tarraka. Bringing the worlds in their trading network further into the commonwealth's fold."
"Good. Give my best to Guildmaster Barranco and Penarra, and tell them they're welcome to visit anytime when we get back."
"Will do. Have fun in Atlantis."
"Major Perkins, we're ready to dial you out for Tarraka now," Trainee Campbell pipes up from the control area. The daughter of the Atlantis chief Gate technician, spending half of her apprenticeship on New Earth as is the custom. "Dr. Grahme, General O'Neill says to remind you the kids will be here at 0900 sharp, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. So be sure to get a good night's sleep with no fooling around." She looks a bit flustered.
Becky offers a sympathetic smile. No doubt Jack gets a kick out of ordering the trainees to relay his messages verbatim for just this reaction. "Thanks, Alys. C'mon fledglings, let's leave them to it. Time for dinner."
Gateway's bustling even on a restday, a thorough mix of pedestrians, ATVs, equines pulling carts and wagons and even the occasional self-propelled electric streetcar. Over the years the population of New Earth has swelled thanks to both the high birthrate and immigrants from former Goa'uld domains willing to take their chances for a better life on a new world. As a result it's become a pretty cosmopolitan place with everything accessible, open to full public view.
While the majority live in the settlement a loose network of communal farms, resource concerns and small towns have spread throughout the valley, connected by roads maintained by Alvarez and his crew to facilitate distribution. A committee determines the proper economic mix and crops to grow but everyone uses the barter-and-fav system to exchange goods and services, a local version of the commonwealth's larger Gate economy.
The Jackson-Grahme residence is deliberately an oasis of peace and quiet in comparison. When the twins were born they decided to cash in their accumulated favs (saving the world several times earned its own unique cachet) and hire local craftspeople to build them an airy and comfortable single-story house. Eschewing their SGC-issued Quonset dwelling for a courtyard garden surrounded by bedrooms, an office and library, kitchen and living area with a view of the Hammond River and Western Parenthesis Range off in the distance.
Child care has been available as a free community service since Allia was born. But early on Daniel declared his preference to do most of his work from home while taking care of the kids, unless his expertise is specifically required on base. For her part Becky spends most of her time at the SGC, supervising the training of their apprentices and fact-checking the work of the journeymen in the field when not on her own special diplomatic missions with Begay's or Perkins' teams.
Hardly the traditional division of parenting but most Old Earth traditions have been long since discarded anyway. The Memory Preservation Project run by the SGC's sociology team collects the ones that matter in story and song.
Their children are among the first generation fully born and raised on New Earth having no psychological or cultural ties to their former homeworld. Which Becky can only see as a good thing.
Better to start over with a clean slate than one cluttered with the detritus of the past, after all.
Daniel's lost the thread of Catherine's story several names back.
"So then I said 'Well, maybe he likes Angie,' because he's always looking at her during social studies but then Jolene said that Tyrell told her that Justin likes me! I was so freaked out I asked her to ask Kaylee to ask-"
"Catherine, less talk and more eating please," Becky warns in an amused yet stern voice.
"But Mom, this is important! Don't you care about my life?"
"Of course we do." pouring her a glass of fruit juice. "But finish what's on your plate first before you continue, okay? And remember to chew this time, don't just inhale it."
Catherine grumbles but digs in. Though he loves his children equally Daniel sees a lot of himself in her. She shares his own penchant for willful stubbornness, not to mention his tendency to be both talkative and tactless at times. Hopefully she'll outgrow this awkward stage soon, especially if she wants to join the NEDF when she's old enough. More than once she's expressed her desire to be a leader of her own Gate team someday.
He can't help but admire her determination, even as he wonders if she'll ever find someone who can keep her grounded, as her mother has done for him.
Becky quirks a knowing eyebrow at him over the kids' heads and he gives himself a mental shake. Time to stop woolgathering and pay attention.
He clears his throat. "So, you guys looking forward to tomorrow?"
Catherine nods enthusiastically. "Uh-huh. Can't wait to see Grace again, she's my second best friend in the universe next to Jolene."
"Great. How about you, Nick?"
"Sure am. Issac promised he'd show me his dad's pet flagisallus while we're there. And Satar said I could learn tracking in the woods with him and Uncle Ronon."
Catherine rolls her eyes. "He's not Dr. McKay's pet, dummy! Just hangs around Atlantis and vocalizes to him."
"Don't call your brother a dummy," Daniel admonishes her. "And you, Allia?"
She nods. "Aunt Alex is a good teacher, and I'll learn a lot about the Ancients from her. Uncle John promised he'd grant me access to the city's database for research."
"That's not all she's looking forward to," Catherine blurts out.
Allia shoots her a look. "Shut up. You don't know what you're talking about."
"Yes, I do," in a mocking, sing-song voice. "Allia has a crush on Tor-ren!"
"Sedatos esse, ilíthios! Et reversus est ut iam!" Raising the bread in her hand as if to throw it.
Catherine sticks out her tongue. "Éla kai me, et faciam!"
Nick groans. "Kai oi dýo, non prohibere! Vestri 'agendi sicut a duobus ilíthioi."
"Allia Sharon! Catherine Claire! Nicholas George! Est satis, hic nunc manere," Becky says sharply. All three startle and look guilty, having forgotten their parents are equally fluent in Ancient. "Catherine, apologize to your sister. This is her last night with us for a while. You don't want her to leave with bad feelings, now do you?"
Catherine scowls but Daniel gives her a warning look of his own. She slumps in her seat. "Sorry, Mom and Dad. Sorry, Allia."
Allia offers a smile of peace. "I know, squirt. It's okay."
Nick only sighs, relieved his sisters are no longer fighting.
And just like that it's over. Catherine resumes her rambling story from earlier without missing a beat. Allia picks at her food and stares out the window with a dreamy look in her eyes. Nick squirms in his seat, eager to leave the table.
Once dinner's cleared away Daniel and Nick go to the library to conduct the promised research while Becky supervises the last of the packing for tomorrow. The kids are then sent off to bathe and get ready for bed as the adults wash the last of the dishes and finish preparing the house for their absence.
A warm breeze wafts through the open window over the kitchen sink, carrying with it the smells of other families' dinners and distant laughter. Daniel watches from the doorway as Becky gently sways to oldies from Radio Gateway with a towel in her hand, humming along with the music.
This is what amazes him, more than any other discovery. This family they've created together, alive and thriving because of their abiding love, leaving joyful chaos in its wake. He never fails to be astonished by his children's endless curiosity, their sensitivity to the hidden wonder and importance of everything around them, their preternatural mindfulness and concern for others. Through them he constantly sees their adopted homeworld and community in a whole new light.
He comes up behind his beloved, wrapping his arms around her waist, following her movements. She smiles and leans back against him. "Hey."
"Hey yourself."
They dance in place for a while longer until he stops and turns her around, gently cupping her chin. Delighting in the soft full lips against his own, the outward flowing of the day's tensions and the peace that follows one of their most favorite rituals at the end of the day.
"Amica mea," he whispers into her hair, lightly frosted with silver.
Her arms tighten around him. "Amicus meus."
And he is content.
Late at night, hours after the kids have been finally tucked in bed. They may be growing fast but even now they can't get enough of Daniel's stories and Becky's songs.
He makes his way to Allia's room, her door ajar as usual, habit leftover from childhood. Unfortunately she's inherited Becky's sensitivity to nightmares.
He takes the chair from her desk and sits beside the bed, with a wry mental thanks for Jack's lessons in stealth. Allia's hair falls across her face as she stirs in her sleep, restless. He reaches over, smoothing and stroking until she eases further into slumber.
The first night he kept watch was when she was three years old with a fever, volunteering to look after her while Becky bundled the year-old twins off to Mac and Janet's overnight as a precaution. He's done the same with each of the kids in turn, even poor little Chris. Taking comfort in their soft, even breathing, reassuring himself of their safety. Swearing to any passing deity or Ascended being he'll be more conscientious and attentive than his own father ever was.
Tomorrow Allia's leaving home to begin her mandatory four-year apprenticeship in Atlantis. Seems like only yesterday she'd been a baby, staring up at him with wide blue-green eyes like his mother's that captured his heart from the very beginning and never once let go.
Her first name is for Allison, Becky's mom. But her middle name is in Sha're's honor, so he'd never forget his first wife from Abdyos. His hummingbird had given him two priceless gifts, that day.
Her sturdy duffel bag and backpack sag against the dresser, packed and ready for the morning. She may be in another galaxy for the next two years but her presence will remain, palpable in the keepsakes scattered around the room: Seashells from Milky Way and Pegasus beaches. A planetary mobile of the New Earth system made by Jack and Sam that once hung over her crib. Strings of stone beads coiled in one of Jack's pottery bowls. A Tarrakan brocade jacket draped over the chest at the foot of her bed. Haphazard stacks of books on every flat surface. Athosian taleweavings adding pops of color to the whitewashed walls.
Taken together they form a record documenting the first fifteen years of her life. Nothing like practicing family archaeology, Daniel thinks with a smile.
A familiar small hand rests on his shoulder. He covers it with one of his own.
"Thought I'd find you here," Becky says softly.
"Just wanted to watch over her one last time."
"I know but it's time for bed. You need your beauty sleep too."
"You know, I seem to recall telling you that more than once."
A quiet chuckle. "C'mon, morning will be here soon enough."
They slip back under the sheets together. His body trembles, a quiet sob escaping him. Her arms come around him and he rests his head on her breast, clinging to her.
"Hush now, raven," she soothes, stroking his hair. "I'm here. Talk to me."
How many times have they shared these late-night confessions while their children sleep? "I'm afraid Allia won't need us anymore after this. And that someday Nick and Catherine won't either."
"So am I. But we're their parents, they'll always need us. We do what we can to set them on the right path, sooner or later we have to show them we have faith that they can handle themselves."
"You're right. But I'll still miss her."
"Hey, I carried her for nine months, don't forget. I'll miss her too."
"You carried all of them. And you were gorgeous every time. You still are."
"Flatterer."
"I only tell the truth." He kisses the soft skin nearest him, caressing her slowly at first then with increasing urgency, feeling her body quiver under his restless, seeking hands.
"You're in a randy mood all of a sudden," she notes in wry amusement. "Been a while since we had a late-night quickie."
"Don't tell me you're too tired for this," lacing together kisses under her jawline.
"Oh, I'm not complaining." Her hands smooth along his shoulders and back, trailing down to his thighs, heat spreading in their wake. "One of the advantages of being night-owls, don't you think?"
"Couldn't agree more," as their lips meet.
Becky sits up, blinking into the darkness. Suddenly certain one of her children is also wide awake.
Not the twins though, as sound asleep as their father. But her oldest isn't in her room, and the kitchen light is on.
Allia sits at the table, writing in her journal. Like her parents born with a lifelong love for words, picking up languages at a very young age and speaking in complete sentences before she was a year old.
"Like mother, like daughter," as Jack once quipped. Meaning more than just her verbal skills. So curious and clever, kind and thoughtful. All her children are but she sees herself the most in Allia.
Fifteen already. Where did the time go?
Becky clears her throat. "Can't sleep, huh?"
Allia startles, blinking at her. "Mom? How'd you know I was up?"
"Mother's intuition. Nervous about tomorrow?"
She caps the pen and shuts the journal, setting both aside. "Maybe a little," she admits.
"There's nothing to worry about. Think of it as embarking on your very own adventure. You'll love it."
"If you say so." Definitely inherited her skepticism.
"I know so. Why don't I make us some tea?"
"Sure. Aunt Alex says there isn't a problem in the universe that can't be solved over a nice cuppa."
Becky chuckles at the unconscious imitation of her friend's soft English accent. Original nationalities and cultures might have gone the way of Old Earth but some customs die hard. "Coming right up."
She fills the kettle and places it on the induction sheet, one of the Atlantis conveniences adapted for Gateway homes. When the water's ready she tosses in two packets of Athosian Evening Blend and lets it steep before pouring into two of Jack's handmade pottery mugs, decorated with patterns of Gate glyphs. Allia opens the cookie jar and takes out some Athosian spiced wafers as a perfect accompaniment.
They sit, wrapping their hands around the mugs. The night air is faintly chill yet tea has a comforting quality that eclipses any temperature.
"So," Becky begins, "any questions about the apprenticeship program itself?"
"Not really. In social studies Mr. Miller told us to think of it as the next step to adulthood and full citizenship in the community. Did you have anything like this on Old Earth?"
"Not exactly, it was just school. Though I was going through some pretty heavy stuff of my own back then."
"Like when your parents died and you moved in with Uncle Mac? I, um, may have overheard him and Aunt Janet talking about it once when I was nine. It was raining and we were playing hide-and-seek with Ian and Jamie. I hid in the closet and kept quiet. They had no idea I was even there."
"That's my girl. It was a weird arrangement but we figured it out and made it work. Even had some fun adventures along the way."
"I'm glad he was there when you needed him most. Uncle Jack, too."
"So am I, sweet. Just like your dad and I will be here for all three of you. And so will the rest of the family if you need anything. I hope you understand that no matter what happens none of you are alone. Not ever."
"I do, Mom. Thanks. Can I ask you something more personal?"
"Fire ahead." They've always encouraged trust and honesty in their children, it's only fair to return the favor.
"How did you know Dad was the one?"
"Mmm, is this about you and Torren by any chance?"
"Aw, Mom." Ducking her head, a flush tinting her cheeks.
"Sorry." Becky pauses, sipping at her tea. "Allia sweet, you're mature for your age in many ways and you have a good head on your shoulders. But you know you're not old enough to pursue any serious relationships. Not until you're eighteen, at the very least."
Allia rolls her eyes in exasperation. "Sheesh, I know that already! But seriously, was it love at first sight like in the movies and romance novels at the public library or what?"
"Nothing so dramatic. We knew we had a connection right from the start. But neither of us believed that we would ever find someone to love, being a couple of shy, bookish geeks."
Allia grimaces. "That's nuts. You and Dad are the smartest, bravest, most beautiful people I know. Everyone loves you."
Becky shrugs. "Well, that's what we thought at the time. You understand we didn't see each other again until after the Big Quake, in the original SGC base under Cheyenne Mountain. Even after that it took us a while to get together."
"Because Zero Hour happened and you and Uncles Jack and Mac were left behind when the Gate overloaded, then rescued just in time by the Asgard before the mountain collapsed. That's when Thor asked you to bear Witness to the end of Old Earth."
"I see someone's been paying attention to their family history."
"I overheard one of those Witness Society people preaching on a corner last restday, claiming you'd been chosen as a prophet by the Ascended Ones. But you didn't even know you had the ATA gene back then, right?"
"You've definitely been paying attention."
"And it wasn't until after you and Dad made Recontact with Atlantis that you asked him to marry you in the infirmary. Uncle John tells that story every time we visit. Only Uncle Jack keeps insisting he did the real matchmaking."
Becky chuckles. "He would. Does that answer your question?"
"More or less." She toys with the handle on her mug. "Sometimes I envy you and Dad. I mean, you love each other so much and it doesn't get old or anything. How do you do it?"
"Well, it helps that we have things in common. And we work well together. It's not all smooth sailing but we make a good team. Anything else you want to know?"
"Actually-" She hesitates, biting her lip. "Sometimes I wonder if I'll have to go through with Torren what happened to you and Dad before you got married."
Becky almost chokes on her tea. "Absolutely not! And before you ask I'm not ready to talk about it until you're older."
"Okay, but Mom-"
"Allia Sharon-"
"-I already know what happened. You were kidnapped by the Goa'uld Ba'al and the Traitor Norris, then rescued later by Dad and Uncle Jack and everyone."
So matter-of-fact, like when she told them about her imaginary friends. All the same it takes a while before Becky can regain her composure. "When did you hear about that?"
A sheepish look. "Last year, from Dad and Uncle Jack. You were offworld and Nick and Catherine were sleeping over with the Perkins kids. I had the window cracked open for the breeze and overheard them talking outside while they were drinking beer. Dad mentioned how awful he felt when he heard the news, as if the bottom had dropped out of his world. Then Uncle Jack admitted he'd felt the same way. It stood out to me because he wasn't brushing it off with snark like he usually does."
"I see. Do the twins know?"
Allia's eyes widen. "For crying out loud, Mom! That would be real boneheaded of me."
"Such language. Jack's clearly been a bad influence."
Allia giggles behind her hand, which turns into a yawn.
"Bedtime, huh?"
"Guess so." She looks around the kitchen with a little smile. "I'm gonna miss this place."
"No you won't. You'll be learning so many new things you won't have time to miss us. Besides, you've been to Atlantis already, you know it better than anyone in the group except for your cousins."
"I know. It's just that when I step through the Gate I'll be leaving my childhood behind for good. I always felt safe here, knowing you and Dad were looking out for us."
A warm feeling of pride and love expands in Becky's chest. "We'll always look out for you and the twins, it's our job as your parents. This is your home no matter what. Now c'mon, Flutterby. Time for bed."
Allia groans. "Not that silly old nickname again."
"Why not? You were really interested in insects when you were nine."
"Only because of that report I did for biology class. If it wasn't for Ian teasing me you'd never have heard of it."
They rinse their mugs in the sink and turn off the light. At the door to her bedroom Allia hesitates for a moment.
Then her arms come around Becky in a fierce hug. "Thanks for everything, Mom. I love you so much."
She swallows the lump in her throat as she holds her daughter tight. "Love you too, sweet. Sleep well."
To Becky's consternation most of her cousins are morning people, an annoying trait no doubt inherited from their fathers. What's even more perplexing is how two of her own flesh and blood turned out to be early risers. For some reason Nick and Catherine love getting up early.
The Gateroom's buzzing with activity, full of techs and SFs on duty as well as the new apprentices and their families and well-wishers seeing them off. One of the main objectives of the program is to offer a broad exposure in different learning environments, along with sharing and reinforcing knowledge between galaxies.
"Allia!" Amelia Grace waves her cousin over to join her peers, all wearing Sciences blue tunics with gray pants and duffel bags slung over their shoulders. As blonde as her mother with Jack's big brown eyes, a prodigy in science and math which comes as no surprise to anyone. She and Allia have been close growing up, almost like sisters.
Her younger brother Jacob watches from the sidelines, hair brown like his dad's with Sam's sapphire eyes. Thankfully he bears no resemblance to Charlie.
Catherine frowns in his direction. "Mom, is it okay if Nick and I go talk to Jacob? He looks kinda lost."
"Good idea. Be sure to come back to us when the Gate starts dialing, we don't want to lose you in the crowd."
Ian and Jamie ruffle their cousins' hair in passing. Ian looks to be acquiring Mac's lanky height, with Janet's light auburn hair and wide-set brown eyes. In contrast his adopted brother's frame is shorter, with bronze skin tone, green eyes and thick dark hair, also his elder by eight months and two weeks. Yet despite their physical differences they're as close as any biological brothers could be. Ian has designs on being an engineer like Mac while Jamie's nursing his own ambitions to follow in Janet's footsteps as a Healer.
Ian grins at them. "Hey, Uncle Daniel, Aunt Becky." Though she's technically their first cousin all the kids persist in calling her Aunt due to the age gap. She doesn't mind.
"Hey yourselves. You guys ready for this?"
Jamie nods. "As we'll ever be. Mom and Dad are having a tougher time accepting it, though," nodding to where Mac and Janet are chatting with Sam.
"Don't let the parental act fool you. They're looking forward to peace and quiet at home for a change."
Ian laughs. "I can believe it."
"Ian! Jamie! Get your butts over here!" Amy calls out.
Jamie ruefully shakes his head. "Bossy as ever. C'mon, we'd better do what she says or we'll find bugs in our luggage like last time."
Becky can't help but chuckle. Amy inherited her dad's penchant for practical jokes, though she would never dare to try them on the adults.
Once the boys are gone Jack bounds over, his hair gone white and more wrinkles line his face, though his mind remains as sharp as ever. He's been making noises about retiring for good within the next few years, handing any duty over to Sam that he can get away with. "Hey, kids. Ready for your vacation?"
Daniel rolls his eyes. "We're only gone for a week, just to see Allia and the others settled and check in with Alex and Diana." Goodwin retired from SG-9 years ago, taking Xiaoli's place in Atlantis after he died. "It's not like a regular working vacation."
"Same difference where you two are concerned." He looks around the room, smiling at their children gathered together, chatting and laughing. "Can't believe this day's finally here, ya know? Seems like only yesterday the rugrats were running around the ol' fishing pond, doing cannonballs into the lake from the dock and scaring off the fish."
"That was last weekend. And there are no fish in your pond to speak of, anyway."
"Literalist," Jack sniffs. "Try not to get into trouble this time, huh? Seems you two are always having scrapes over there."
Becky smirks. "Speak for yourself. Remember the last time you visited Pegasus? You stepped into a transporter in the Ancient outpost we were exploring and found yourself on another planet entirely. Poor John was ready to tear his hair out after his people had scoured the planet and couldn't find you."
"Not my fault the thing had only enough juice for a one-way trip. Never caught the name of that planet but the natives sure were a friendly bunch, showing me their Gate so I could get back to Atlantis."
"You know, McKay was certain they would've made you their chief."
"Nah, watching over this zoo is more my speed." He checks his watch. "Whoops, better get this show on the road. See ya in a week."
Mitchell and Vala come over, their daughter Vanessa trailing behind, dark-haired and cheerful like her parents. "You guys ready for this?" he asks Becky with a grin.
"For going to Atlantis, yes. For letting Allia go, not so much. But she can take care of herself, and so can the others. Honestly I think they're looking forward to it more than we've been."
"Sure they are, it's a new experience after all. Just like Nessie here will get to do in a couple years, huh?" grabbing her for a swift tickle. She shrieks playfully. "Call us when you get back and we'll host dinner at our place. Give our best to the gang."
"Will do. See you next week."
Jack taps twice on the microphone. "All right, everyone look sharp. We're dialing for the first leg of the Gate bridge so parents say your goodbyes now. No one mess with anything on Midway Station or Lieutenant Fletcher and Sergeant Orti will be forced to turn the thing around."
Amy rolls her eyes. "For crying out loud. Dad makes the stupidest jokes sometimes."
Chevrons lock and the event horizon forms to cheers and applause. "There you go, campers. Work hard but don't forget to have fun. And your folks would appreciate it if you dropped them a line once in a while." He and Sam smile, locking gazes with their daughter. Amy smiles and winks back at them, equally adept in nonverbal communication.
Becky and Daniel hold on to the twins' hands as they follow behind the apprentices filing through the Gate. Once on Midway Station the kids cluster around the viewports, exclaiming over the spectacular view of both galaxies while Daniel signals Fletcher and Orti in the control room to dial for Atlantis.
The Pegasus-side Gate engages and everyone steps through.
Emergence into the Atlantis Gateroom never fails to take Becky's breath away. The immense size, the striking architecture, the paean of joy and welcome from an Ancient city recognizing two of its Prognati.
Allia's eyes widen. "The city's singing to me! How come I never noticed before?"
"Happened the first time I arrived in Atlantis, too. Just about floored me." John beams down at them from the balcony to their left, hands on hips. "Hey there, kids."
"Hey, Uncle John!" the twins chorus, waving at him.
"Man, the incoming personnel sure are looking younger these days. Must mean we're getting older. Right, Rodney?" elbowing his partner in the ribs.
McKay spares them a glance from his tablet and groans. "Oh, god. The twin terrors. Time for my week-long migraine."
John laughs and bounces down the stairs. Wiry and snarky as ever, touches of gray in dark unruly hair. "You know," he drawls, "when I said I'd teach twins if you had 'em I didn't know you were gonna take me literally."
"They were a surprise to us too," Becky reminds him, embracing her big brother-in spirit. "How's it going? Anything new in the galaxy since we were here last?"
"Nah. Same old, same old. You know, peace and quiet."
Alex grins as she comes up to them. "For Lantean values of peace and quiet, naturally. I'll fill you in later. Ready to begin your apprenticeship, Allia?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"No need to be so formal off-duty, I'm still your aunt. I just wanted to say welcome. We'll have a chat about your lessons once you get settled into the dormitory and had your orientation. Becky, Daniel, lunch with me and Evan? We simply must know everything about how Nora's doing."
"It's a deal." Her eyes widen at the sight of the young man with russet hair standing behind Alex. "Wow. Torren, is that you? You've grown since we last saw you."
He grins. "Hi, Matertera Becky and Patruus Daniel. Hi, Allia."
She blinks at him, flustered. "Um, hi. You're leaving for your apprenticeship on New Earth soon, right?"
"With your parents at the end of the week. Maybe we can spend some time together before then."
"Sure, I'd like that." Eyes only for each other, like they've forgotten anyone else is even present.
Alex discreetly clears her throat. "Torren, don't forget you have sparring practice soon."
"Right, sorry." A wry smile. "Time to get beat up by Patruus Ronon again. See you later, Allia."
"See you later." A flush tints her cheeks.
Catherine opens her mouth to tease but Daniel shakes his head and she subsides.
A young woman of medium height with dark blond hair and dressed in Science blue descends the central staircase, brandishing a tablet. "Attention all apprentices! Please gather around me with your gear."
Allia bites her lip. "Guess this is it."
"Yeah." Becky swallows the lump in her throat. Hard to believe this is the same baby Janet placed in her arms fifteen years ago, tiny and beautiful and perfect. Now she stands before them, blue-green eyes shining with excitement, ready for the next stage of her life.
"Love you, sweet," pulling her close for a hug. "Do well. Be brave."
"I'll do my best, Mom. Love you too."
"Keep your feet on the ground, papilio meum," Daniel says in turn, kissing her on the forehead. "Don't forget to write."
"I won't, Dad. I'll try to include something in every databurst."
Tears well up in Catherine's eyes. "Do you really have to go? Will we ever see you again?"
"Sure will, squirt," hugging her and Nick. "I'll be home for Longest Night and Arrival Day, guaranteed. You guys look after Mom and Dad for me, okay?"
"We will," Nick promises.
Allia steps back, wipes away tears with the back of her hand. Then takes a deep breath and squares her shoulders before hefting her duffel bag and joining the others.
"Welcome to the next four years of your life," the woman says with a grin. "I'm Journeyman Madison Miller, your advisor while you're here in Atlantis. Who's in the physical sciences?"
Amy raises her hand, along with Ian and three others. "Will we really have to be work under Dr. McKay?"
"His title is Artifex here, not Doctor. Yes, he'll be one of your supervisors, along with Artifex Zelenka. Despite what you're heard Uncle Rodney's bite these days isn't as bad as his bark, and I should know," she adds with a wink. "You'll be fine so long as you pay close attention and do exactly what they tell you."
"Artifex means Artisan in Ancient," Allia volunteers.
"That's right. The Ancients believed there was an art to their sciences, and a science to their arts. In that spirit we use it as an honorific in Atlantis. You must be Allia Jackson. Anyone else in the social sciences?" Two others including a black-haired boy from Kelowna that Jonas recommended raise their hands. "You'll be taking lessons with Artifices Lorne and Goodwin. Biology or Healers?" Jamie and three more nod. "You'll report to Artifices Parrish, Beckett and Keller. Everyone got it?" Madison takes a breath before continuing, "Okay then, let's head to the dormitory. You'll have time to unpack and freshen up before your orientation to the city and instruction in safety procedures. After that is a small get-together with some of your instructors and the other apprentices. Since tomorrow's Rising Day lessons don't begin until the day after so you can have some fun before work. Now, everyone please follow me."
Allia hangs back for a quick smile and wave before before disappearing with the group.
Becky dabs at her eyes and Daniel slips an arm around her waist, kissing the top of her head. "She'll be fine. There's nothing she can't handle."
"I know. Our little girl's grown up so fast, that's all."
"Tell me about it." They turn to find John behind them, a rueful smile on his face. "Seems like only yesterday I told Ada to share her cookies with Issac and she kicked me in the leg."
"Ah yes, good times," Rodney says absently without looking up from his tablet. The three adults shoot him a pointed glare. "What?"
"Ada's doing fine on New Earth," Becky notes to John. "Working hard under Jeannie and Sam. She promised to write something for the next databurst."
"Looking forward to it. Teyla said she'd look after the twins for you this afternoon so you have time to rest up before your lunch date with the Lornes. After that we're going on a little field trip. Got something that'll knock your socks off, and it's practically in our own backyard."
"Sounds like a plan. See you guys later."
On the way to their latest residence- a coveted corner apartment near the west pier, the square footage alone rivaling the Gateway house- they wander through the tents and colorful stalls of the southwest pier marketplace. Above the bustling crowd the spires and towers of Atlantis gleam in the sunlight, Jumpers and other small craft flitting among them. On the water fishing boats and pleasure craft pass by, people waving and calling out greetings to one another.
The Wraith Civil War ended years earlier. Warmth and vitality are now the prevailing moods, an almost palpable sense of possibility belonging to a people testing their newfound freedom from their common foe. The first stage of a true Pegasus Renaissance.
And they owe it all to Atlantis, which is well on the way to regaining its former functions under the Ancients as a galactic trading hub and clearinghouse of information. Much like Gateway does for the Milky Way.
Because of the detour it takes two more transporters and ten minutes of walking through corridors to reach their residence. At one junction Daniel stops in his tracks, jaw tightening. "We've got company."
Becky follows his narrowed gaze, her blood running cold. Silently cursing the fact her zat's probably sunk to the bottom of her duffel bag by now.
She gestures to the children skipping ahead. "Catherine, Nick. Come here and stay close to us. Now."
A Wraith approaches from the right-hand corridor, black robes with characteristic white hair, green tattooed skin and wispy white goatee. He pauses, cocking his head and appraising them as they in turn watch him carefully.
The five of them are alone in the corridor.
Finally he offers a smile she can only think of as sardonic, showing pointed teeth. Gives a peculiar bow, curling his right hand in front of his chest, concealing the feeding maw from sight. "Good morning."
"Good morning." Daniel's voice is calm but Becky can hear the underlying wariness. She presses her lips in a thin line, not trusting herself to make a civil remark. Nick whimpers softly and clings to her.
There's a faint scar near Daniel's heart where a Wraith had almost succeeded in taking a few years from him the last time they went offworld in Pegasus. Forcibly returned at gunpoint thanks to Ronon but she's certain she aged the same amount herself just from witnessing the deed.
With the civil war over there's a marked reduction in cullings throughout the galaxy. Yet she remains unsure of any Wraith's intentions, Peace Faction or not.
A predator remains a predator, even after choosing to become civilized.
The Wraith smirks as if he knows what she's thinking, then nods and continues on his way. They watch until he disappears from sight.
"Huh," Daniel finally says, rubbing the back of his neck. "That's something you don't see every day."
"You think?" Becky taps her communicator. "John, why is there a Wraith strutting around the city without an escort?"
"What are you talking about?" He groans. "Oh, hell. You guys ran into Billy, didn't you?"
"Who?"
"One of the Peace Faction's scientists. Researching retroviruses with Carson to wean his kind from feeding off human life force. He's harmless. Mostly." Rodney gives a derisive snort in the background.
"Harmless or not he gave us a serious case of the creeps, walking around by himself. Jamie won't come in contact with him when he studies under Carson, will he?"
"No, we're keeping the apprentices as far away from him as possible."
"Good. Janet would have my hide if anything happened to him or Ian." She refrains from adding And I'll have yours if anything happens to my daughter on your watch. Her brother-in-spirit's adept at reading between the lines.
"I hear you." "You have my word we'll keep them safe. See you at 1500."
Teyla's waiting by the door to their residence, serene as ever. Russet hair long and frosted with silver, lines crinkling around her eyes as they exchange forehead touches. "John just told me what happened. I am sorry you had such an unsettling encounter. Are you all right?"
"A little shaken but fine," Daniel says. "Thanks for looking after the kids."
"It is my pleasure. Eliya and Rodaan are looking forward to playing with their friends from the Milky Way," smiling down at the twins.
Catherine tugs on her skirt. "Aunt Teyla? Can you show me how to fight with those double sticks of yours?"
"You mean my bantos? Yes, but you must ask your parents for permission first."
Daniel frowns. "Um, I'm not sure that's a good idea."
"I understand your concern," she quickly reassures him. "My mother taught me when I was her age. I promise I will take the utmost care in teaching her."
Catherine bounces from foot to foot in her eagerness. "I promise to be careful too. So can I, please?"
Becky sighs, sharing a look of fond exasperation with Daniel. "All right, but listen closely and do everything she says, okay? And don't pout when she says it's time to stop."
Her lower lip- so much like her dad's- quivers but she nods reluctant agreement. "Okay."
Teyla smiles as she takes the twins' hands. "Did you know tomorrow is Rising Day? I believe there are some costumes you can wear for the morning parade. And Rodney and Radek have been busy all week preparing something special for the party afterwards, though they have been quite secretive about it."
"Bound to be spectacular, then." Becky quips. "See you later, kids. Have fun but remember to mind your Aunt Teyla."
"Yes, Mom," they chorus in reply. The door closes behind them, leaving blissful silence in their wake.
Becky and Daniel sink into the couch cushions, uttering a huge sigh of relief. Savoring the rare luxury of having the place entirely to themselves.
"Peace and quiet at last," Daniel presently remarks.
Becky yawns and stretches. "Nice, isn't it? I mean I love the kids but they're exhausting."
"Know what you mean. What should we do now?"
"Oh, I can think of one thing."
"Mmm, so can I."
They do what any parents would, given the opportunity. Stretch out on the couch, cozily entwined, an Athosian blanket covering them to ward off any chill.
'Lantis holds off waking them from their nap until it nears time to join the Lornes for lunch.
Daniel's eyes widen. "Has this been here the whole time?"
From a distance it looks just like another ring around the gas giant Atlantis astronomers have named Bellerophontes, after the Old Earth hero who tamed the winged horse Pegasus of Greek mythology.
Up close is another matter.
A veritable fleet of derelict Ancient ships hangs in orbit above swirling bands of russet, tan and cream. Every meter of the planet-spanning ring crammed with the broken hulls of vessels in various shapes and sizes, battered and worn after millennia of combat and relentless exposure to cosmic radiation.
"As far as we know," John says. "This planet's hardly ever aligned with ours and the energy readings blend into the background so we never had an inkling it was here. Even 'Lantis had forgotten until one day when Madison noodled around with the Riemann Hypothesis for fun and solved it."
Becky whistles. "One of those big unsolvable math problems, right? I remember the Phoenix Foundation offered a substantial cash prize to anyone who succeeded."
"Yeah, only hers turned out to be a decoding key for a set of encrypted coordinates in the database. Apparently this is one of several stashed all over the galaxy, used vessels saved for later recycling."
"Good for Madison. You must be really proud of your niece, Rodney."
"Yes, well, let's just say I'm not surprised," he says modestly. Strange to believe but parenthood has mellowed him. Though only somewhat. "She obviously inherited the genius from her mother's side of the family."
Daniel opens his mouth to defend their children's teacher but Becky shoots him a warning look and he subsides. It's useless debating Kaleb Miller's IQ with his brother-in-law. "You've spent years trying to acquire a ship for the colony's use, haven't you? Looks like you finally hit the jackpot."
John's eyes sparkle with excitement. "Oh yeah, every holiday and birthday ever rolled into one. Sit tight, I'll show you our pride and joy."
As he expertly maneuvers around the wreckage Becky's reminded of images in the databases of Huy-Braesealis and Atlantis, mostly utilitarian in accordance with the Ancients' typical conservative approach.
And then something completely different comes into view.
Glittering spears bound into an arrow shape, the fractal geometric qualities of ice crystals as viewed under a microscope. Like Atlantis itself, undeniable proof that even a million-year-old civilization can have the occasional flight of fancy.
The interior of the ship proves to be just as beautiful, copper and bronze fixtures and panels shading from verdigris to cerulean. The bridge in the central spear is circular, consoles hugging the walls, one forming a huge crescent before the central viewscreen. Even with the muted indirect lighting stars are visible through a domed ceiling of pure, unbreakable vidrium.
John reclines in the captain's chair, beaming. "So, what do ya think?"
"It's impressive," Daniel admits, his fingers twitching. Becky can tell he's dying to get access to one of the monitors, mine the system for all the information it can provide. Yet McKay's murderous glares are sufficient incentive to hold off for now. "Is this the only one of its kind?"
"As far as we know. Didn't even get a shakedown cruise before the Ancients quit Pegasus for good according to 'Lantis. Most everything was intact save for the power supply and a few key components, we just had to install a ZPM and two Mark 6 naquadah generators to bolster the shields. Rodney and Radek made its restoration from top to bottom their pet project last year."
"Does it have a name yet?" Becky asks. "You know Jack would suggest the Enterprise if he were here."
"Of course he would," McKay mutters from a nearby console. "No imagination."
"I considered naming it Thunderbird for a while," John confesses, "but Alex suggested Triton instead."
Daniel nods. "The son of Poseidon, the patron deity of Atlantis in Old Earth Greek mythology. Appropriate."
"Yeah. Thought it had real pizzazz."
Rodney snorts. "Pizzazz. I was perfectly happy to call it the Einstein but no, you have to have your way as usual."
"Hey, you've had your turn already. Thanks to you our kids are Ada Marie and Issac Galileo."
"Well, I certainly wasn't going to stand by and let you name them Rosanne and John Carter, for god's sake. Honoring prominent Old Earth scientists to reflect their future genius made more sense than the children of a country singer. As I recall brilliantly arguing with my typical irrefutable logic."
"Funny, all I remember was the threat of cold showers for life if I didn't give in," John counters with a smirk. "Though you provided a better incentive later in bed."
"Sex was what convinced you? Why am I not surprised?" with an outstanding eye roll only McKay can pull off.
"Hey, you know I love you for your brains as well as your body."
"Oh, like that makes me feel any less exploited."
"Um, Colonel Sheppard?" One of the other scientists frowns down at her console. "We're picking up a distress call from a Traveler ship, judging by the frequencies."
Rodney shoves her aside to tap on the screen, frowning in suspicion. "What are they doing here? They're not supposed to be passing through our sectors anytime soon. Unless they veered way off-course just for kicks."
"Could be they're genuinely in trouble." John rubs his chin thoughtfully. "How far away is it?"
"A handful of parsecs, not long by hyperspace." His brow furrows. "Why?"
"Well, to me it sounds like the perfect opportunity to use this as our shakedown cruise, and do a good deed at the same time."
Rodney stares at him as if he's nuts. "Seriously? The ship's not ready to deploy. We don't even have a full crew on board. This is anything but perfect."
"We got tractor beams, right? That's all we need for towing the ship back to Lantea for repairs."
"You mean the gravitic spiralling system I installed the other day? Granted, I made significant improvements from Janus' original design and the simulations are very promising but I hardly think now is the time for a field test."
John shrugs. "No time like the present. Becky, Daniel, better make yourselves comfortable. Dr. Singh, let Atlantis know what's going on. Rodney, set a course for the Traveler ship. Let's show them some Lantean hospitality."
"Don't say I didn't warn you. This is completely moronic, not to mention reckless."
"That's the spirit. You know I love you for your unbridled optimism."
Their tenure on a Gate team with Ronon and Teyla has been over for years. John now wears glasses as he reads the daily reports while Rodney's hair has receded over time, and both have been known to wear cozy handknit cardigan sweaters and matching socks when relaxing off-duty. But their wits remain as sharp as ever, thanks to raising two precocious incubator-made children, marathon chess matches and of course trading their familiar banter.
Daniel sits on a nearby bench, patting the space next to him. Becky cuddles in close, watching the John-and-Rodney show unfurl before them in relative comfort.
It never gets old.
Katana Labrea and her crew are grateful for the assist, no surprise since the spacefaring nomadic nation has been allies of Atlantis for years. Offering apologies for venturing into Lantean space without warning, welcoming John's suggestion to tow the ship back to the city for repairs. McKay's gravitic spiralling system works as advertised.
John shrugs off their profuse words of thanks. "We were just in the neighborhood. Your timing is perfect, actually. Tomorrow's a holiday for us- lots of food and drink, music and dancing. Fun for the whole family. You're welcome to join in."
Becky jumps at the gentle tap to her shoulder. She spins around to face a dark-skinned man, scarred and whip-thin but a familiar gleam in his eyes.
He steps back, hands raised in placation. "Sorry about that, Dr. Grahme. Didn't mean to startle you."
Daniel blinks at him, brow furrowed. "Um, do we know you from somewhere?"
"Should hope so, Dr. Jackson. Remember our mission to Huy-Braesealis?"
Becky gapes at him, eyes widening. "Aiden Ford? Is that really you?"
His seamed face creases into a smile. "Sure am. Sorry I haven't kept in touch but you know how Traveler ships are, always on the move."
"That's okay," accepting his strong handshake. "We knew you were in contact with Atlantis, and John told us you'd recovered from your addiction to the Wraith enzyme. But he never said anything about where you wound up."
"Healer Taravis found me on a market world trying to pick his pockets," nodding to a brown-haired man of medium height chatting with Labrea and Sheppard. "He caught me in the act. He's a former Wraith worshipper so he recognized my withdrawal symptoms and knew how to administer the right treatment. After I recovered I told Lady Katana where I was from and she offered me a place on the crew. Ship's security, nothing fancy like Atlantis but it gives me something to do. I have a wife and son, by the way."
"That's wonderful. We should talk more during the party tomorrow, if you can get planet leave."
"No problem. Sheppard told me you two have kids of your own, can't wait to meet them either." His chronometer beeps. "Whoops, time for my shift. Gotta go, just wanted to stop and say hi."
"Aiden-" On impulse she steps closer and gives him a hug. He returns it, gently patting her on the back. "It's so good to see you again. We've been worried."
He beams at her. "There's no need, I'm doing just fine. See you at the party."
Daniel purses his lips, watching him melt back into the crew. "Huh. Never thought we'd see him again."
"Me neither," Becky admits. "Small galaxy, huh?"
Due to Atlantis' increasing influence in galactic affairs many worlds believe a new era began with the expedition's arrival, in the colony's honor adding the abbreviation P.R. (Post Resurgens, or After Rising) to their calendars.
Rising Day itself- or more simply Rising- is much like the quarterly holidays that bracket Gateway's social calendar, replacing those native to Old Earth. According to Alex and Diana the date coincides with both an old Athosian holiday honoring children and the continuity of their people and the day Atlantis rose from the bottom of the ocean. Sufficient reason in either case for celebration by Lantean standards.
In the morning an informal parade winds through the public areas of the city. Children- including Nicholas and Catherine- sing joyful songs and wave colorful streamers, wearing mini adaptations of the expedition's early uniforms or the traditional costumes of their various former homeworlds. The procession ends in a large open-air square where Elizabeth gives a brief inspirational speech and Athosian elders invoke blessings for their offspring with John dressed in Ancient-style garb, taking reluctant part as the Ancestors' representative.
A late afternoon party caps off the day's events, at a permanent campsite on a bluff overlooking a perfect half-circle cove, the spires of Atlantis just visible on the horizon. Canvas shelters and circular yurt-like tents surround a huge firepit, everything arranged Athosian style, rustic and cozy yet tidy and organized.
Becky takes a deep breath of the salt-laden breeze, delighting in the sounds of easy conversation between friends, the clink of bottles, the soft tinkle of driftwood-and-shell windchimes. The delicious smell of roasting meat wafts from the cooking pavilion, setting her stomach to rumbling.
She shades her eyes against the sun, smiling at the activity below on the beach, the joyous shouts and laughter.
Teyla, Alex, and Elizabeth sit as chaperones on wicker chairs under a huge canvas umbrella. Ronon squats nearby digging in the sand with his daughter Zoe, yelling encouragement to his sons Satar and Doran as they play seaweed tug-of-war with Rodaan and Rya'c's son Jada'c of Dakara, Teal'c having been so taken with the notion of an intergalactic exchange program he encouraged his grandson to participate.
Closer to the water Nick's recreating his Ancient city in sand from the other day with help from Issac and Caleb. Catherine hunts for seashells along the shoreline accompanied by Grace, Eliya, Eliska and Rachel.
Becky shakes her head in wonder at the amazing, sprawling, extended family they've become. Soon they'll be passing the torch to this next generation, exploring and discovering things she can't even imagine. Along with the cities of Lavondis and Caeris the Ancients left other legacies out there, waiting to be reclaimed by their latter-day inheritors.
The databases of Huy-Braesealis and Atlantis contain tantalizing references to seeder ships, million-year-old vessels designed to explore the greater universe and deposit ready-made Gates onto planets with the potential for supporting oxygen-based life. Apparently nine-chevron addresses are required for gaining access to one of these ships.
According to Sam forming a wormhole utilizing all nine chevrons will take an incredible expenditure of energy, more than the available power sources on New Earth combined. Their best bet is a world with a core of pure naquadria to provide sufficient power. But the odds of finding one and safely tapping into it without destroying the planet in the process seem well nigh impossible.
Then again, discovering the address for Atlantis had also been a one-in-a-million fluke. They're experts now at rendering the impossible into improbable, breaking it down further into merely difficult to achieve.
Moot point anyway. No matter how eager Sam and McKay are to tackle the problem it won't be solved overnight. Better to hand the mystery off to their children, or possibly even their children's children.
They've gotten this far by raw talent, hard work and sheer luck. It's only fair to let future generations see how much further they can go.
After dinner there are stories and music and dancing around the campfire until it gets dark enough for Rodney and Radek's surprise, a fireworks display set off from the beach. Kids and adults alike gather on the bluff to marvel at the brilliant splashes of color over the water, accompanied by shrieks and pops and booms.
Catherine jumps up and down, clapping her hands. "Better than the ones back home the week before Awakening!"
Becky sinks onto the blanket with a sigh. Daniel lifts his arm and she snuggles in, laying her head on his shoulder. "Reminds me of Independence Day and New Year's Eve displays in L.A., over the Pacific Ocean."
"I was thinking of the Atlantic myself. When I was six we visited Nick staying at a friend's beach house in the Hamptons on the Fourth of July. The only time I ever saw my parents relaxing between digs."
"I hope we're better parents than they were."
"I hope so too."
More music and dancing fill the night afterwards until the kids settle into a tired heap, warm and snug among blankets while a mixed squad of Lantean Guard and Athosians keep watch.
The adults talk for long hours, nothing to interrupt save for shooting stars.
Daniel leans against the entrance to their tent, clad only in moonlight and enjoying the night breeze on his skin. The campsite is silent as he regards the vastness of space above the trees, stars and nebulae and the galactic arm a pale streak across the darkened sky. No matter how many times he's visited Atlantis over the years the view never fails to leave him breathless.
When he was younger he used to wonder about the whole point to his life, at rock bottom believing it an utter failure. No family or friends, no academic career, not even a place to live. No one to love, or be loved by in return.
Then he met Catherine Langford one rainy afternoon, who gave his life purpose and meaning, vindication and direction. Showed him the coverstone, encouraged him to find the seventh symbol that unlocked the Stargate and the larger universe beyond. Setting the stage for everything that followed.
None of this would've come to pass if not for her wisdom and quiet fortitude, her ability to see potential in others, including himself. He and Becky could do little else but name their youngest daughter in her honor.
The flap is pushed aside and Becky joins him, hair mussed and a blanket loosely tucked around her body, leaving her shoulders bare. She's never looked more beautiful. "There you are. You're not cold like that?"
"I'm fine so long as you keep me warm," throwing her a playful leer beneath lowered lashes.
She laughs softly, unwinding the blanket just enough to drape it around his waist. "Better?"
"Much," tugging her even closer.
"Allia's with the other apprentices. And Evan took the twins back to Atlantis for a sleepover with Grace and Caleb."
"Meaning we have the tent all to ourselves for the night?"
"Uh-huh."
"Well, in that case we'd better make the most of it." Taking her hand and kissing it before leading her back inside, the tent flap swishing shut behind them.
Afterwards their hands idly trace words and patterns of love on each other's skin, smoothing over familiar angles and contours. Reverently kissing scars and stretch marks, the unwritten lexicon of a life navigated together as friends and partners, lovers and parents.
"This is nice," she says. "It's rare for us to have a free night without the kids. They always take priority."
"They always will. Wouldn't have it any other way."
"Me neither. Amazing, isn't it? How far we've already come, how much further our children are bound to go once they're grown. A whole universe waiting for them to discover."
"It was waiting for us, too." His hand lingers on her hair, weaving it between long fingers, lustrous silver in the moonlight. "We're here because of you and Huy-Braesealis."
"And you and the seventh symbol. Did it really happen over twenty years ago? I feel old."
"Nonsense. You're as beautiful as the day we first met. My brave and brilliant hummingbird."
"And you're just as handsome, my wise and clever raven." They share a soft, sweet kiss. "Dulce somnia, amicus meus."
"Dulce somnia, amica mea."
As they settle into slumber Daniel reflects on their first meeting in Seattle.
Guileless blue eyes behind glasses, blinking at him above a tall stack of paper. Shy, sweet smiles and tinkling laughter. Conversations sparkling with wit and intelligence. A blow struck against a bully. First kiss in front of a hotel room door. Gifts exchanged, raven journal and hummingbird necklace.
Against all odds finding each other again, under the Mountain and before the end of the world. Fitting together right from the start, perfectly matched in mind and body and soul. Standing by each other despite the challenges placed in their way as they work to ensure the settlement's survival. Clasping hands in the Atlantis Gateroom, sharing vows with family and friends as witness.
Their children heading inexorably towards adulthood, one day raising families of their own. The generations to come expanding the boundaries of knowledge, searching for their place and purpose in the cosmic scheme of things.
He used to believe life could only be defined in terms of success or failure. Now he knows such arbitrary definitions are of little consequence in the end.
The journey itself matters, more than the destination.
He's come a long way from a geeky archaeologist with outlandish theories. Now he's a friend and teammate, a husband and father. Above all a well-loved man.
Everything he wants and needs is right here in his arms, sharing these golden days and months and years together.
His life- and his heart- have never been so full.
An endless source of wonder.
Notes: For a comprehensive guide to the next generation see both chapters of Timeline and Who's Who in Ad Astra. As always for translations and explanations of certain concepts see A Linguist's Guide to New Earth. Both works are in my series Ad Astra on AO3.
See the Encyclopedia Britannica for the Riemann Hypothesis and Wikipedia for tractor beams in both real life and science fiction.
Ford's fate in the Pegasus Galaxy is adapted from the SGA tie-in novel The Third Path. I thought it was fitting he finds some peace in my 'verse as well.