Preservation of the Species

by RoczaDeb

Half the SGC disappears in a mysterious green light. What happened to them? How will those left behind cope with their loss? AU. Ship: JS CC DOther Cassie/Other Hailey/Other

4. Part 4: Going Home

Part Four: Going Home

(Six Years after the kidnapping)

Jack and Sam stood in the town square next to a raised platform. The others would be arriving shortly. They were waiting for the weekly correspondence from the SGC. Since making contact with the Furl'ing, the group of missing Tau'ri had finally been able to make contact with home. Granted it was only through the Furl'ing and no real-time communication was possible. But being able to send home letters, pictures, and videos made it worth the effort. Of course, receiving letters, pictures, and videos back from the loved ones on Earth was even better.

The platform had been built to serve as a pick-up and delivery point for the Furl'ing. As projects were completed or letters were written the residents of Zulu Site would place them in containers on the platform. By the end of a week, the platform was full of boxes and shipping containers. Right now, it was covered with equipment and boxes being shipped back to Earth.

When Jack had wrangled the promise from the Furl'ings for regular contact and supplies from Earth, he failed to understand the sheer volume of stuff that would be shipped between the two locations. Since the group no longer needed to dedicate themselves to growing food, they now used their spare time to work on various projects from the SGC. This particular batch of equipment included a new type of shield emitter developed by Sam's project team for use on the X-304's and an updated version of the Wraith weapon that had been so effective against the Ori ships. Daniel was sending back several translations he had been working on in relation to the search for the Sangraal. And, of course, the weekly mail.

For five years, the Furl'ing had been exchanging supplies and mail. And for five years, the frustrated Tau'ri at the Zulu Site tried to continue their lives.

"Why are you so grim?" Sam asked Jack quietly.

Jack waited before answering, organizing his thoughts, "I can't help but wonder if we could have won this war by now if we had been back home instead of…" he gestured to the town surrounding them. He glanced back at her quickly, "Not that I would change anything… or stuff… just wondering."

Sam gave him a small smile, "I don't know. I find that I like being able to research and develop technology free from NID influence. Not to mention, joining the kids for lunch when I feel like it. Oh, that reminds me, what are we doing for the twin's birthday next week?"

"Is that next week?" Jack replied casually. At Sam's glare, he relented, "Just kidding, I got it covered. Big party at the school. Huge cake. Everyone's invited."

Sam let out an exaggerated sigh, "Why do I put up with you?"

Jack smiled, "My wit? My charm? My dastardly good looks?"

"Nah," she laughed, wrapping her arms around him and tucking her cold nose into his neck. "More simple than that. You're warm."

Jack laughed, "Why Dr. Carter, with such low standards, no wonder I was able to sneak into your heart."

The platform was encompassed in a bright green light. When the light faded, all the equipment was gone. More people were gathering around the platform now. Finally, the green light returned this time with a humming noise. Once again the platform was filled with equipment and boxes. Jack smiled and stepped up to claim the white box on top. He didn't like many of the administrative duties he was required to do as de facto leader of the Zulu site. But, Mail Call was by far his favorite.

He grabbed a fist full of envelopes and started reading off names, "Jones, Oliver, Lauson, Reynolds…" In short order, the mail was distributed. Next, came the equipment and boxes. Again, the boxes disappeared quickly to their new locations. Leaving one final box of reports and forms. "Oh, joy. More paperwork."

Sam laughed at Jack, "Oh you are such a baby. I've got to get these to the lab. I'll see you tonight." She gave him a quick kiss before helping her project team carry several equipment boxes off.

"Fine," he shouted after her. "Abandon me for your doohickeys." He grabbed the box of reports and headed back to his 'office'. His office was really just a desk in their house. He had argued against a separate building for administrative functions. He didn't see a need for a building when he was the only one and the job was basically part-time. Jack had cut the paperwork down to a manageable size and used the excuse of the Furl'ing abduction to keep it manageable. He spent no more than a few hours a day sorting through the reports, findings, and requisitions forms leaving him free to help out other teams.

"Let's see what you have for us today, Hank." Jack pulled out a DVD from the weekly summary report from General Landry and popped it into the player.

The footage showed General Landry in his office behind his desk with a report in hand. "Morning, Jack. We have had quite a full week this time. Thank to Dr. Jackson's translations, SG-1 has finally found the Sangraal and word has gone out to the Ascended Ancients that they need to un-Ascend if they don't want to be caught in the back lash. From what we can tell, it is an all or nothing weapon. I hate to kick them out of the 'higher plane,' but they started this mess. They should just be glad that we gave them a heads up." Hank turned and picked up another report from his desk.

"On other fronts, the battle with the Ori's ground troops is stymied. I hope Colonel Carter has made some more progress with the wraith-based weapon. The Ori ships have finally found a shield to counter the weapon so we are once again at an impasse. The Free Jaffa Army under Teal'c's leadership has rallied and is making progress in reclaiming Chulak from the Ori."

"Thor sends his greetings from the Pegasus Galaxy. He says that the final sweeps are being done to ensure no wraith have escaped. The last of the hidden hive ships has been destroyed. Atlantis has not received any new wraith sightings in the last two months.

Hank put down the report he had been reading from and smiled, "So, that's the highlights from our end. Now, on to more important matters. Operation Scooby Doo is a go. The puppies should be available this week so they should arrive in the next shipment. I found a breeder for German Sheppard dogs that was able to make it happen. You will have 30 puppies of different lineage with a few mixed breeds tossed in. The breeder included recommended pairings to maximize genetic diversity." Hank smiled widely, "I want video footage of the party when you hand those puppies out. I can't help smiling at the imagined chaos. The real thing ought to be a hoot."

"Well, that's it from my end. Give my grandson a kiss for me. And tell Carolyn to stop being so stingy with the pictures. I can't play the proper Granddad without at least 10 new ones every week. Landry from the SGC, out."

Jack smiled, "Sweet. Best party ever."

He had been trying for the last two years to get the Furl'ing to authorized bringing dogs to the Zulu Site. Once he had cleared it with the Furl'ing he had to fight with powers that be on Earth. Earth authorities had only relented when the Security Forces troops pointed out how useful the dogs would be in security patrols. Now, they were finally going to get dogs for the kids. All the parents at Zulu Site had been in on the Operation and so far it was the only classified information on the planet. Of course, it was only classified so the kids wouldn't get wind of the plan.

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

Hank Landry approached the Gate Room after the Zulu Site supplies disappeared. He knew that the return shipment would arrive in a few minutes. After five years, the routine had become standard. He could already see the various department heads gathering in anticipation of what finished projects would be sent back.

Hank had to admit that the Zulu Site scientists out produced every other scientific team that Earth had established. Not only did they complete projects faster than other teams but they had more innovative project ideas than any other think tank team. While he was not sure what their secret to success was, he was sure that it had to do with Jack O'Neill's flexible leadership style.

The highlight of Hank's week was watching the video that Jack sent with his weekly summary report. The video had become a tradition between the two generals. They talked about important developments and personal updates. Hank considered it the closest thing to a phone call that the Zulu Site personnel had. And with this week's successes against the Ori, Hank was eager to hear news of his family, so far from home.

That first message from his daughter, Carolyn, had renewed his will to fight this war to the end. Her letter had been very long and very personal. It was the first time that he could recall that she had not thrown bitter accusations at him for the way she had been raised. Instead, she forgave him and asked that he forgive her for all the lost years. Her letter went on to explain that in that long hard year, she had found love. She had married Lt Colonel Cameron Mitchell and they would like his blessing.

Hank smiled as he remembered the euphoric feeling he had upon reading that letter. He went from giving up to top of the world a few minutes. Not only had he found his daughter, but she was doing just fine, and he had gained a son. Of course, this didn't stop him from giving Colonel Mitchell a hard time. But even his sternest dad lecture was given with a big dopey smile. That happy feeling was only surpassed when three years ago, they made him a grandfather for the first time. His will to fight the Ori had returned and with it an understanding that win or lose, his family was safe. But with a win he could one day hold his grandson in his arms.

The green light deposited a load of equipment in the Gate Room. He watched as his aide pulled off several boxes that appeared to have reports in them and handed the general the weekly summary report. Hank accepted it and continued to watch as the scientists sorted out the remaining boxes. By the smiles on their faces, the Zulu Site teams had come through again.

Hank made his way back up to his office with the weekly summary report and its accompanying DVD. He nodded at the gate technicians on his way through the control room. Finally, alone in his office, he started the DVD.

The scene did not open to the usual back drop of Jack's office. Instead it appeared to be Jack outside a house, holding the camera on himself. "Hank, I couldn't wait for this news till the end. It's too good." The camera was jiggled and Jack disappeared from view to focus on a door. The door was opened and Hank could hear Jack's voice, "Hey, kids, you decent?"

The picture showed a living room and then a bedroom. In the bed was Carolyn, holding a tiny bundle surrounded by her husband and her young son. She looked up at the camera and smiled. "Dad, I would like to introduce you to the newest member of our family, Harold James Mitchell."

"Is Papa?" asked the toddler.

"Yes, dear," she replied.

The little boy gave a shy smile, "Hi, Papa. I gots a bwover." He pointed at the tiny bundle. The camera zoomed in on the little bundle to show the newborn up close.

"Don't worry, Hank. I made Cam take lots of pictures," Jack's disembodied voice added to the scene. "Well, we best leave them alone before I get thrown out."

The picture faded to black. Then back to color showing Jack's office. "Well, Hank, lots of excitement this week. Daniel had even more stuff on the possible locations of the Sangraal. Sam has several working prototypes of a shield emitter that she says can block 'damn near anything.' Dr. Lee has found a way to make the wraith weapon more effective and defeat all know shield technology used by the Ori. He said something about variable marbles or some such. Anyway, he was really excited."

"Mr. Oliver has found a way to make his organic fuel cheap to make. He recommends that the USAF consider making the process available to the public. For a price, of course. Dr. Jones thinks the new hybrid wheat will yield 3 times as much grain as the staple wheat. He sent a bunch back for additional testing." Jack put down the paper he was reading from and grinned at the screen.

"I need more to keep the SF's and the Marines busy. I am planning a weeklong training exercise for the SG Teams and all security personnel. I'm letting the team leaders spin up their teams for the next two weeks, then a week down before the exercise."

"Morale is up. No discipline problems from this end. Several of the civilians want to know when the Stargate project will go public. They are having a hard time corresponding with their families. They keep getting pressure to 'escape' from here."

"Now, on to more important matters. Harold James Mitchell was born on Tuesday. He weighs 9 pounds, 4 ounces. 15 inches long. A copy of his birth certificate is included with this report. Both mom and baby are fine and resting. I made sure that Cam took about 200 pictures and sent you the memory stick. Big brother Darren is impatient to show his brother the ropes."

"In other news, this week was the Zulu Site championship football game. The Black Sheep versus the Geeks. The Geeks took an early lead but failed to hold the determined Black Sheep back. Final score of 24 to 18. The baseball teams are now recruiting for our next season. That's all I got. Have a good week grandpa. O'Neill from Zulu site, out."

Hank sat quietly for several minutes. His big dopey grin was back. Grandpa, again, and this one was named after him. Yup, being made a grandfather for the second time was even better than the first time. Time to call Lynette and let her know she was a grandmother for the second time.

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

A few days later, Hank was in the briefing room with SG-2. They had engaged the Ori on one of the contested Jaffa planets when the Ori ground troops suddenly broke off and left in their ship.

"Sir, the Ori troops were led by the Orisii and had the clear advantage. We were holding them but then they just retreated. They didn't even attempt to recall their stranded troops. I think that something big is happening. We need better intel," Maj Valario reported.

Hank considered the team's report, "I agree. Something is up." He turned to his aide, "Jones, send out a subspace signal to all our allies. Let them know that something is going on in the Ori ranks. We need intel fast to counter their moves."

Technical Sergeant Malvis entered from the control room, "General, Commander Thor just sent a subspace communication. The Ori are amassing all their ships and heading towards Earth. He expects that they will arrive sometime tomorrow. He is trying to gather as many of the Asgard vessels as he can to assist us in the battle. He said that he is already contacting all our allies to come to our aide."

"Get me a copy of that message, stat. I'll brief the president. Recall all SG Teams and put all 302 and 304 crew members on standby. I want all 304's in orbit as soon as possible. Start the evacuation to the Alpha Site." TSgt Malvis handed a transcript of the Asgard message to the general and left to relay his orders. "Shit," Hank swore under his breath. "They must have found out that we have the Sangraal." He turned and stormed into his office to pass on the bad news.

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

"Well, Doctor, I want you to activate the damn thing as soon as possible. We can't wait for the Ancients to vacate the higher plain any longer. We only stand a chance against the combined Ori fleet if we nullify their Ori support."

Hank had spent the past 12 hours trying to figure out a way for a technology backwater world to defeat the Ori fleet. His only hope was that with the Ori gone from the Higher Plain, the Priors would lose their powers. This would still leave a large fleet on Earth's doorstep, but they could defeat the people. It was the all-powerful support network that defeated them every time.

As he turned to leave the lab, a soft glowing light filled the room and the hallway beyond. The empty hallway was now full of people. Directly in front of Hank were two people.

The woman at the front held up her empty hands as a gesture of peace, "General Landry, we want to thank you for considering us before unleashing the weapon. We," she gestured to the people around her, "are here to let you know that the ones you know as the Ancients have vacated the Higher Plain at your request. We stand ready to assist you in activating the weapon and defeating the approaching army."

Hank was stunned. "And you are?"

She smiled warmly, "I am Moran La Fey. This is Merlin."

Hand finally recovered from his initial shock. "Well then, Morgan, Merlin, I need the Sangraal activated now. Then you can accompany me to the briefing room to talk about how you can assist us in the upcoming battle." He gestured to the Sangraal on the work table.

Merlin stepped forward and picked up the jeweled pendant. With a small twist on the clasp while pushing the flat bottom of the stone, the Sangraal was activated. The red stone began to glow with a pulsing red light. The light grew in intensity until it was painful to look at. Finally, with an audible pop, the light disappeared and the Sangraal became inert once again.

"That's it?" Hank asked, thinking that the weapon's discharge was a bit anticlimactic.

Merlin looked at him, a small smile curving his lips, "Yes. Of course, it is much more impressive on the Higher Plain. But…"

Hank smiled back, "I'll bet. If you folks will follow me please, we will discuss how you can help us in the upcoming fight." He led the group to the briefing room.

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

Jack sat at his desk finishing up his paperwork for the week. Just a few more reports and he was done for the week. As he signed one more requisition form, the humming green light flashed on the other side of his desk. Startled, glanced up to see Nazzir standing with a large envelope in its hands.

"Nazzir," Jack stated. Over the last five years, he had worked closely with the Furl'ing representative. "Something I can help you with?"

The Furl'ing carefully placed the envelope on the desk. "Greetingss, O'Neill. Mar'uss assked that thiss be delivered immediately. We will follow with a sshipment in 10 minutess."

Jack glanced down at the envelope confused, "Marrus?" He noted the quick scribbled not across the envelope in Hank's recognizable scrawl.

'Jack, Operation Scooby Doo is a go in 10 minutes. Sorry, I had to send early. Hank'

"10 minutes?" Jack looked back up to Nazzir. "At the usual delivery point?"

"Yess," it replied.

Jack nodded, "OK. We'll be ready."

Nazzir bowed its head and disappeared in another flash of green light.

Jack jumped up and began organizing the welcoming committee for the new puppies. The envelope forgotten at his desk. Several hours later, with the puppies safely stored in the caves, Jack finally returned to his desk. Seeing it, he smiled and opened the envelope and was immediately confused. Rather than the paperwork outlining puppy parentage, he found a stack of DVD's with hand written labels. Most of the DVD's had family surnames on them. But one was labeled Zulu Site. He popped it in the player and watched. When it was finished, his only comment was "Crap."

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

Later that evening, Jack called the entire community together. After a short ceremony giving the puppies to their new families, Jack addressed the assembled group.

"I think that we can proclaim Operation Scooby Doo a huge success." He started, smiling at the groups of children surrounding the puppies. "I know that we," he gestured to include all the adults, "didn't plan on the early delivery. But we were able to adapt fairly easily. However…" he paused, finding it difficult to continue, "however, the puppies were sent early for a reason." He turned to where Walter had set up the projector. "Walter, are we ready?"

Walter nodded and started the DVD. Jack started walking among the crowd, handing out DVD's as he found the individuals the DVD's were addressed to as the message started.

The screen showed General Landry sitting behind his desk. "Hello everyone, I hope that Operation Scooby Doo's early arrival didn't cause too many problems. I wanted to make sure that operation was completed before we got too busy here. Unfortunately, this will be our last communication for a while. As this is being recorded, the Ori fleet is arriving in Earth's orbit. The Ori discovered that we had found the Sangraal and directed their fleet to Earth to prevent us from using it."

"However, they underestimated our resolve and we activated the Sangraal with the help of the descended Ancients. The entire Ori fleet will arrive at Earth, but without the support of the Ori." The general paused and collected himself before continuing, "We face an even battle against the Ori fleet, with our allies at our side. With all due luck, this battle will eliminate the Ori threat in our galaxy once and for all." He gave a big reassuring smile, "We have taken all possible precautions and are supported by ALL our allies. We fully intend to win this battle and bring you home." His smiled grew, "I wanted to be the one to let you know that Plan B is officially underway."

He leaned back, his smile turning sad, "But war is full of uncertainties. To this end, I have sent my people out to get recorded personal messages from as many of your family members and friends as we could contact, given the time limit. We will reestablish contact as soon as Earth is free of the Ori. Until then, keep us in your thoughts. Landry, out."

Jack once again stood in front of the quiet group. "With this news, I want everyone to take tomorrow off. Ongoing projects can be completed, but expect to catch up on local projects until we hear from Earth. In the meantime, I am cancelling the planned exercise. Instead, I want to spin up teams and training for Stargate duty. I'll meet with project and team leaders day after tomorrow." He plastered a big smile and his face, "We are almost home," he said with faked enthusiasm, before he joined his family to wait for news.

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

Several days later, Jack was refereeing a soccer game for a group of kids in the town square. The whole community had been subdued since General Landry's message. The second day after the message, Jack and the team leaders had prepared for the return of the Stargate. He could tell that several of the team leaders didn't think that Earth would prevail. But he remained stubbornly optimistic that not only would Earth prevail, but the victory would be decisive and they would all be able to return home soon.

Jack could see that his efforts were slowly working. First, the kids came around by believing in his positive outlook. They started to plan victory parties and other events they would celebrate upon their return. Next, the former SGC members started to perk up. They would reminisce about all the other times a 'positive' O'Neill had been proven right against even greater odds. Slowly, the others were coming around, and Jack was sure that the optimism of the rest would eventually bring them around.

While Jack was sure, beyond a shadow of a doubt that Earth would defeat the Ori, he was worried about the cost. In an even battle on home turf, Earth would win. But the victory would not be bloodless. In public, Jack would be the epitome of optimism, joking and laughing, but in private, he was already grieving the comrades and friends that had fallen in battle, as yet unnamed.

So, while they waited, life at the Zulu site slowly returned to normal.

Jack's focus on the game shifted when he heard a humming noise coming from the platform behind him. As his attention shifted from the game to the platform, he noted the telling greenish light. "Yes!" he hissed under his breath. He blew the whistle to stop the game, "Take a time-out everyone. I'll be right back," he said over his shoulder, his eyes never leaving the Furl'ing in front of him. "Greetings, Nazzir."

"Greetingss oncse again, O'Neill. I bring newss of Earth," the alien replied happily.

Jack started grinning, "Then you are most welcome here." He could hear the kids gathering behind him, listening.

"Earth is oncse again ssafe for u'manss." Nazzir paused as the kids cheered. "It appearss that the Lantianss underesstimated the u'manss ability to presserve themsselvess. The portal 'ass been returned to your dimenssion." Nazzir turned his head to examine Jack closely. "'Owever, the Furl'ing would sstill like to remain in contact with your racse. We undersstand now why the Lantianss would want to presserve it. We will remove all our devicsess, ssave this one," he gestured behind him to the blue tree. "And the one on Earth. Sshould you require our asssistancse, pleasse contact uss."

"Thank you, Nazzir. We will be in touch." Jack replied. Nazzir disappeared once again in the green light.

Jack turned back to the group of kids. "Well, what are you waiting for? Go tell everyone." The kids cheered and ran off in all directions, singing and shouting out their happiness. Jack picked up the radio he had taken to carrying around. He keyed the mic with a big smile, "Attention Team Leaders. The Furl'ing have just declared Earth safe from the Ori. Repeat. The Furl'ing have just declared Earth safe from the Ori. Gate Unit One, report to the Drop Zone immediately to secure the area from any incoming wormholes. O'Neill out."

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

Jack surveyed the group surrounding him. The entire community had turned out for this first contact with Earth. He had been surprised when several of the team leaders expressed an interest in seeing the Stargate in action. He had forgotten that even though they had been stranded on an alien planet for over six years, roughly half of his people had never seen the Stargate and more than half had never traveled through it intentionally. He had reluctantly agreed that anyone who wanted could be present for the first activation of the Stargate.

Now, surrounded by the festive atmosphere, he was glad he had agreed. He had serious doubts that he could have stopped people from coming if he had wanted to. Better yet, it made the perfect excuse to have his wife and kids here to see him off, should all go well.

Jack pulled his wife in for a tight hug. "You know, once they see it in action, you will have to give the 'Wormhole Physics for Dummies' lecture again," he whispered in her ear.

Sam chuckled, "Good thing I perfected that speech, years ago, on one particularly dense Colonel," she replied. She gripped him tighter, "Be careful. I love you."

"Always. I love you, too," he whispered back. He gave her one last long kiss. He turned to his three kids, "OK, kids, I expect you to take good care of your mother and Nibbler. I'll be back as soon as I can." He gave them each a long hug and a kiss on the head. He stood up and taking a deep breath, he slowly walked to the Stargate.

Cam joined him after a few minutes. "Ready, Sir."

"Let's get this show on the road." Jack turned to the assembled group. "OK, if I could have everyone clear the area directly in front of the Stargate." He waited until an area was cleared. "Mitchell, dial her up."

Cam walked over to the DHD and confidently hit the address for Earth. Jack had turned on the jimmied radio that Sam had setup next to the 'gate. It had also been setup with a repeating station so that radio signals could be sent all the way to the town.

"Sierra Golf Charlie, this is Zulu base. Do you copy?"

A reply sprinkled with static was clearly heard. "Copy Zulu. This is Sierra Golf Charlie. Standby."

A new familiar voice took over, "Jack is that you?"

Jack smiled, "Of course it is, Hank. I've got the gang all here. They want to know if we could come for a visit."

"Negative. The house is a mess. But we could accommodate a couple guests," came the easy reply.

Jack had expected it, but to hear the news of problems back home still made Jack a bit sad. "No problem. We expected as much after the size party you threw. Do you mind opening the door?"

"Door's open. And we have your return address."

Jack glanced over at his family. "See you soon." He handed the radio mic to Walter and picked up a small pack. "Reynolds, you're the DO until I get back." Steve Reynolds just nodded. Jack glanced over to Cam to see that he was ready to go. He nodded at Cam and headed for the wormhole, "We're off to see the wizard…" and disappeared. A few seconds later the wormhole shut down.

Colonel Reynolds stepped up. "Alright. Time to go home. Remember that from now on this area is dangerous. Contact the security team if you need to be in the area. They can escort you through. All further radio contact from Earth will be routed to the Control Center in town. I'll let you know as soon as we hear from the General."

SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG-SG

Hank greeted Jack and Cam at the bottom of the ramp with a shit eating grin. Jack returned the grin, "Hank."

"Jack. Colonel Mitchell. Fancy meeting you here."

"Ah. Funny man." They started to walk towards the infirmary. "So, Hank, heard from a little birdy that you all kicked some serious alien ass."

Hank's smile turned sad, "We did. But… we lost a lot of good people."

Jack placed his hand on Hank's shoulder, "I know… But they will be remembered." He turned a sad smile at his friend, "After all, they saved the world. The galaxy even."

Hank returned the smile, "Yes, that they did." Hank glanced over at Cam, "But, I feel guilty. My family was safe when so many others were not."

Jack laughed, "Hank, you spent the last six years worrying about the safety of your family. Trust me. You have nothing to feel guilty about." Jack threw a wicked grin at Cam, "Besides, don't you have like six years' worth of son-in-law harassment coming to ya? I bet that could keep your mind busy."

Hank laughed back, "Yes, I do. But, I'll let him off a bit longer. Did you know he hasn't been home in six years?" he said as they entered the infirmary. "Doctor, these two gentlemen need a full work up, including DNA." He turned back to Jack and Cam. Come up to my office when you're done here." He left one worried Colonel and one amused General in Dr. Michael's capable hands.

Several hours later, Jack knocked on Hank's office door. "Enter."

"We have been poked and prodded to the satisfaction of your resident quack. You ready to debrief?" Jack asked.

Hank sighed, "Yes and no. Yes, I'm ready to hear about Zulu site, but I don't quite know where to begin for the Earth-side story."

"Good, then we'll make it easy for you. We'll go first." Jack motioned Cam to enter and sit down in Hank's office. "We got your message and were able to successfully pull off OSD. We got lots of video for everyone. Then we showed everyone your message and everyone was a bit down for a while. Things started to perk up when the kids decided to plan a victory party. Next thing we know, the Furl'ing Nazzir shows up to tell us that Earth is safe for humans, the Stargate is back in our dimension, and we can go home." He paused, "Oh yeah, Nazzir said that he wants to maintain contact with us, so he is leaving the camera in the Gate room and the main one at Zulu operational, but will remove the remaining cameras." Jack frowned at Cam. "Did I forget anything?"

Cam cleared his throat, "Uh, the… um… the new gate security protocols… Sir."

Jack smiled at Cam's unease. He had gotten used to the lax military protocol at Zulu Site. Cam was his friend now. He was sure that the 'general's and 'sir's would get old really quickly. "Geez, will you just call him 'Dad' already?... Right… security at the 'gate. We established a perimeter around the 'gate and will need radio confirmation for any travelers. We are here to request an iris and whatever doohickeys Sam needs to make it work." Jack made a thoughtful face, "Um, yep, that's it. So, your turn."

Hank sighed, "Where to begin? Well, the Ori fleet made it into orbit and began systematically trying to subdue the planet. The priors were useless without their Ori powers, so we didn't have any zombies or plagues. The space battle was intense. We lost the Odyssey but most of the crew were able to beam away in time. Our 302's were superior to their smaller craft, but they had so many more fighters… We evened out the numbers with conventional fighters… Our heaviest losses were among the fighter pilots."

Hank took a moment to collect himself before continuing, "We lost several capital cities. Extensive civilian casualties in DC, Moscow, Beijing, London, and Paris. Berlin was spared, but only just. The Odyssey was able to take out the last mother-ship before it fired from orbit… We spent the next few days cleaning up the debris in orbit. Thanks to Thor, that job has made our skies safe once more… Key government officials, including the President were safely evacuated before the fleet reached orbit…"

"I guess that the biggest question is: Now what? The world now knows that we were attacked by aliens. The Gate Alliance Nations held a press conference yesterday to tell the world that they have been secretly protecting the world from alien attacks for over a decade. Thor made an appearance and told the reporters how Earth had saved his race from not only their enemies but extinction. He stated that not only was Earth an ally but also a friend… That was pretty nice. Next, Teal'c and Master Bra'tac, in full Jaffa armor, told of how the Tau'ri had freed their people from slavery to false gods and helped them to create a free Jaffa Nation."

"Oddly, enough, the press conference didn't mention you, the others missing, or the Stargate. But, I doubt that will last. Since the press conference, the media has been a complete circus. Public debate about truth and fiction, aliens or a mass hoax… Well, it's enough to drive a man crazy. As it is, I've taken to staying on base to avoid the reporters mobbing the complex." He laughed, "They are besieging Cheyenne because of NORAD. How's that for irony."

"So, what does the President want to do?" Jack asked, trying to absorb all the information. "About us?"

Hank's smile turned evil, "How does the phrase 'public spectacle' sound?"

Jack groaned, "It sounds a lot like 'sacrificial lamb.' I'm going to hate myself for this, but what does he have in mind?"

"Oh, he wants to use the whole kidnapped by aliens thing to recoup public support. I talked it over with him while you were having fun with the good doctor. In short, he wants to reunite the Zulu Site residents with their families by sending the families to the Zulu site and record the whole shebang for the common good," Hank summarized.

"What? Is he bonzo?" Jack ran his hand over his face, "I know. I don't have a choice. Joy… Have you started to collect family members? I take it they are willing participants, not kidnapped in the night."

Hank chuckled, "Of course, they are willing. Mr. Bergman should be arriving in a few hours with a complete USAF filming crew. Everyone should be here, courtesy of the Asgard, by tomorrow morning. YOU get to brief them before heading back tomorrow."

"Does the fun ever end?" Jack asked no one in particular.

"Wait, there's more," Hank added.

"Great."

Hank's tone softened, "Look, Jack, the President knows that if you guys return, regardless of how or why, the lot of you will be hounded by the press. You were all heroes well before this final battle. He plans to declassify the Stargate shortly. To give you all a measure of peace, he is turning Zulu site into an official, autonomous, Tau'ri research colony. All the military personnel are being offered full military retirement and the opportunity to 'join' the colony before anyone else is offered a chance. He wanted to give the SGC members, past and present, a chance at a quiet life before the public gets a hold of all of us. You don't have to stay, but he would like you to be the new colony administrator."

Jack sighed, "So the Stargate will finally be public knowledge? Along with all our suffering along the way… Well, we knew it had to happen someday." He looked his old friend in the eye and smiled, "To everything there is a season… Hank, can I use your Stargate? I need to make a phone call."

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The next day Jack stood at the base of the ramp one more time. He smiled as he remembered his conversation with the Zulu Site. They had been less than excited about the media frenzy, but were oddly accepting of the idea to make their former prison their new home.

Now, briefing given, the large group of concerned family members and close friends were waiting to be reunited with their lost kin. On his right was Teal'c's solid presence. To his left, was his good friend Hank, eager to see his daughter and grandchildren at last. Behind him stood his bother-in-law, Mark.

The gate activated with its usual flair, eliciting a gasp from the waiting crowd.

"That just never gets old," Jack said into the following silence. He picked up his hand-held radio, "Zulu base, this is Papa Bear."

"Go ahead Papa Bear.

"Are we cleared for travel?"

"Yes, Papa Bear, you are cleared for travel."

"Copy, Papa Bear out." Jack turned back to the crowd, as he started up the ramp. "Shall we?"

Jack exited the wormhole softly, which is more than he can say for his brother-in-law. Jack caught him before he could fall. "Easy," he whispered, "Don't worry. Sam got sick her first time, too." He caught Mark's grin and turned to the clearing. "Oh, boy."

The clearing had been transformed into a huge party. Balloons and banners hung from every tree. Jack could see that everyone had once again flooded to the Drop Zone. Just then he heard a squeal and turned in time to catch his youngest, Janet.

"Daddy, Daddy, Daddy!" She hugged him tight as if afraid to let him go. "You was gone, fo'ever, and Nibbles ate my dolly and… and…"

"Easy, munchkin," Jack soothed her. He took in the sight of his family approaching, "Hey kids, look who I brought back… This is your Uncle Mark and your Uncle Teal'c."

"Greetings, JanetO'Neill, JacobO'Neill, and GraceO'Neill." Teal'c gave each of the kids a bow before turning to Sam. "I am very pleased to see you again, Samantha."

At his gentle tone, Sam started crying. She grabbed the Jaffa in a big bear hug, "Oh, Teal'c, It is sooo good to see you again." She turned to her brother and gave him a huge smile, before encompassing him in another huge hug. "Mark," she said simply holding him tight.

All around them similar greetings were taking place as friends and family were reunited after their long separation. Tears, hugs, and kisses were seen all around the clearing at the joy of their reunion. And off in the corner, a tearful camera crew recorded it all. Bergman was already finding his inspiration for this new chapter in documenting the sacrifices that these people had made for their planet. Where his last documentary had been about sacrifice and loss, this new film would be about duty and hope.

The End.

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Anyone is welcome to continue this story line with my permission and blessing.

Deployed military members when stuck with too much time often play the Wish Game. Rules vary by service, location, and participants. Scoring is optional.

Security Forces troops are often called the Black Sheep of the Air Force. This term is used to demonstrate that they are essentially USAF Infantry and different from the rest of the USAF career fields. They also frequently use the term Sky Pig to denote on their roles as police officers on Air Force Installations. When the USAF uses the term 'SF' they mean the Security Forces troops not Special Forces.

Work Title: Preservation of the Species

Summary: Half the SGC disappears in a mysterious green light. What happened to them? How will those left behind cope with their loss? AU. JS CC DOther Cassie/Other Hailey/Other

Rating: Teen (T)

Rating: AO3 [Teen (T)] [Teen (T)]

AO3 Archive Warnings: AO3 [No Warnings Apply]

Fandom Category: Stargate SG-1: Season 10

Spoilers: Stargate SG-1: 0107 The Nox, 0202 In The Line of Duty, 0301 Into the Fire, 0321 Crystal Skull, 0606 Abyss, 0717 Heroes Part 1, 0718 Heroes Part 2, 0918 Arthur's Mantle, 1005 Uninvited

AO3 Relationship Categories: AO3 [F/M]

AO3 Pairing: Samantha 'Sam' Carter/Jack O'Neill, Daniel Jackson/Other, Carolyn Lam/Cameron Mitchell, Cassandra Frasier/Other, Jenn Hailey/Other

Characters: LG Jonathan 'Jack' James O'Neill, LtC Samantha 'Sam' Jean Carter, Dr. Daniel Jackson, Master Teal'c (Apophis) of Chulak, LtC Cameron Mitchell, Vala MalDoran, Cassandra 'Cassie' Frasier, MG Hank Landry, Dr. Carolyn Lam, Col Steve Reynolds, Lt Jenn Hailey, Dr. Bill Lee, CMSgt Walter Harris Harriman, Supreme Commander Thor, Maj Paul Davis, Dr. Jay Felger, Pres. Henry Hayes, Malek, Master Bra'tac (Apophis) of Chulak, Morgan La Fey, Merlin, Lya, Antenaus, Agent Barrett, Kanan, Dr. Werner, Dr. Rodney McKay,

Original Characters: Janelle, Benny, LtC Johnson, Col Ted Thompson, Maj Vasquez, Maj Pope, Maj Dilecce, Sandra Reynolds, Bryson Reynolds, Shelly Reynolds, Derek Reynolds, LtC Jeffries, Lt Jones, Dr Jones, Jenny Lauson, Tom Wilcox, Capt Yan, TSgt Matheson, MSgt Jessica Kern, SSgt Ted Garrett, Joseph Oliver, Sally Wimple, Melissa Frasier, Janet O'Neill, Jacob O'Neill, Grace O'Neill, Dr. Michaels, TSgt Malvis, Maj Valario, Nazzir, Lynette Lam,

FF Genre: Mystery, Adventure,

Additional Tags: Adventure, Angst, Alternate Universe, Kidnapping, Mild Language, Spoilers, Mystery

AO3 Additional Tags: Adventure, Alternate Universe, Angst, Kidnapping, Mild Language, Spoilers, Mystery, Family,

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