Hi everyone. Thanks for your reviews and comments, Djenie, dpdp and sam600sx. Also Schatxe8210 for your review and interesting pm. I Am Tzu thank you for putting this story on alert and favourites, glad you are enjoying the story.

And to all the others who reads my ramble and come back for more - thanks for taking the time and doing so.

The usual disclaimers, and reassurance that no character has been permanently injured or unfairly treated in this chapter …

Enjoy.

Jack sleeping?… The Mind Room

Chapter 11

As Jack's head gently touched the pillow and the cover was carefully tucked around him, but kept his arms resting on the top, he knew he'd lost his fight to stay awake, and that deep sleep was coming. Because he was too exhausted to talk and knew they wouldn't understand him anyway, he'd kept his sleepy gaze on Sam, jerking awake each time his eyes closed. But now they were too heavy for that, so he took her concerned loving image, as well as the knowledge that no matter what happened she would be there with him, down into the darkness with him.

At first it was the semi darkness of lighter sleep, where he could hear Teal'c's deep reassuring voice join hers as they started to talk, but could not break through that barrier and join in. Now; knowing Sam was not alone, and feeling the pull of the deeper level of sleep where he wouldn't hear anything, except the natural noise and pictures of dreams. As well as knowing this was the only way to gain his adult strength and return to them in one form or other, Jack let the strange dark comfort he could feel wrap around him, and followed the whispers he could hear in his mind into the darkness of heavy sleep.

He found it was not an easy feeling, certainly not as restful as sleeping in one's bed on a normal night, but not as traumatic as travelling the Stargate for the first time either. Was he still in his body, and this was just in his mind with all that Ancients' knowledge swimming around as he rested, got his strength back? And started to concentrate on the waves of whispers that came and went. Found he recognised some of languages and words ... they were modern so members of Atlantis chatting. So he was out of his body going somewhere, and suddenly seeing a golden light at the end of the tunnel he tuned out those waves of voices, and knowing he wasn't ready to face that room yet, turned back into the darkness.

The glimpse of the sketch he'd had on the computer in the Gate room was enough to tell him he'd end up there in a dreaded sleep chamber, and the cabinets on the wall were information boxes. So here he was technically a human USB waiting to be plugged in, and the information sucked out. Been there done that and yes it hurt. And, Atlantis was amongst other things a big travelling library and information centre … Yeah Daniel ... and Sam come that, would love that, and of course would want to have tickets or code words to the damn things.

Surprised he was having this conversation with himself or perhaps he shouldn't be, after all it was only his subconsciousness talking to himself. A way of reasoning things out ... what he usually did in silence as he planned his day, their next move as a team, or their escape route … scrub that, he was usually doing noisy distraction at the same time, or with deadly silence to plant C4 or in the past a sniper's rifle so an escape plan would emerge or job was finished. And felt again that deep urge … the need to know what was happening to his team, before he met that golden light and that room.

Doing his usual stubborn survival thing, he pushed his mind back into the darkness around him, and demanded loudly. "Atlantis. I need to know the boy is safe and so are my team, then I'll give you what you want so I can get back to who I am!" He knew above all else she was a computer and needed commands, just happened to be via his thoughts at the moment.

Feeling a rush of energy, air or whatever it was around him and seeing the golden light grow dimmer, the comfort that had been around him disappeared, and he suddenly felt as though he was being pushed through a very tight hole. Till finally and with a very loud pop that he was sure everyone in the City heard, he was out of that restraint and free. Half blinded by the bright light around him Jack yelled, not caring who heard him. "Forcyringoutloud! That is so old hat! Hey! Travelling the Gate was better than that! Not going to pop in or out of the bottle each time I want to move, you understand Atlantis!"

Then muttered to himself as he felt his body around him. "Daniel and I've done the invisible or out of phase man bit before, didn't like then don't like it now."

As his eyes got used to the light, he smiled at the four people crowded round watching the video in such a small patient's bedroom. Sam and Cassie were laughing their socks off and making comments, and the doctor's excuse for staying and watching. Was probably she needed to know what went on that morning … at least she was smiling. A happy doctor meant no needles so happy patient. As for the last person … the one who was ... no other word for it but of a gossip … was his stoic 'silent' Jaffa warrior brother, who was failing to hide his huge grin or laugh. Frightening to witness, but good.

And there he was, still a child sleeping deeply … wasn't going to say like a babe as that was tempting Fate… way too much. Realising time had moved on quite a bit, Jack thought about the young man he'd felt earlier and was badly injured.

Feeling nothing except what could have been a whisper of a laugh, a chuckle of glee, around him that was not made by a human or Jaffa. But could also be his own imagination and just the noise of energy moving in whatever dimension he was in. Jack realised he was now in the main infirmary, patients resting, doctor and nurses talking. And was glad they weren't in the operating room, halfway through whatever surgery was needed, and walked over to the bed where the young man lay sleeping. Listening in on Doctor Beckett and the nurse's conversation, he knew everything was going to be all right. Father and son would go back to their planet eventually, in the meantime new friends had been made with the team on Atlantis.

Realising that it was probably his own energy he was feeling, and most likely his own delight at not being trapped in the deep sleep, Jack thought about the Gate room, still not ready to see if Daniel had disobey his orders to talk to Vala and sleep. While he was thinking hard about the Gate room, that little niggle thought crept through, that Daniel would have checked out the Ancient tablet and probably not got further than the first page or two, and then stopped those thoughts. Because he found himself in the Gate room, there had been no rush just a flick of a thought, and checked out where he was. Top of the stairs and at the entrance to the computer area, not far from his earlier confrontation with Rodney, and checked to see where the man was and saw he was one of the group round the computer he'd put the new battery in and woken it up.

Wasn't really surprised at that, and walked over to see what they were looking at, and from the banter going on that one was teasing the other, and Colonel Cameron Mitchell and Richard Woolsey were letting them get on with, no doubt having brought each other up to date on things, which was good.

And then smiled at John's innocent toned tease. "So 'It's all gone squiggly' is now an official technical term in computer language."

"That's not fair. You were the one talking to it at the time. Perhaps it was something you thought." Squeaked Rodney as he looked up from the screen, then added in excited defensive mode. "I'd not touched anything. It had been giving us details of what is in that new tower. Then the screen went...

"Squiggly." John put in with a chuckle, before adding seriously. "Yes we know. In fact everyone here knew as soon as it happened from your squeak. Matter of fact I'd stopped relaying your instructions as to how to make Atlantis put the energy in the right place, well before you got the squiggles. And, you were the one jumping up and down about the information you were getting, so you could have accidentally touched something."

Not waiting for Rodney's indignant huff, John couldn't resist pointed out. "Now those squiggles have gone, we can see what must be the real version of that diagram, that was shown on the screen before the General went to the infirmary. A large room with cabinets on the wall and a large column in the middle of it, that has a long arm coming of it, which looks as though it could link up with the cabinets when needed. Sort of a retrieving device, but with no way of gauging size we don't know how large it all is."

"And that beating red dot that appeared and stayed still could be the General, Jennifer said he was sleeping. So things should start happening ..." Cam butted in, enjoying the banter but wanting more information.

Feeling a shiver run through him, Jack knew it was Jon waiting for him and he would have to go, but he needed to check on Daniel, and started to think of him. Then stopped as Colonel Shepard quickly moved over to the communication's computer and flicked a switch that had just started to flash.

And the loudspeaker on it, announced. "Atlantis this is Colonel Steven Caldwell on the USS Daedalus."

"USS Daedalus this is Colonel John Shepard, any news from earth?" John asked knowing that Colonel Carter had asked them to be in a position to relay any ship to ship message from earth as the Gate had been shut down at the time.

"Two short ones. First one for General O'Neill and must be some kind of code. But it reads. Dominoes have been tipped and falling as planned with minimal damage and innocent causalities so far. The kids enjoyed the big scene. Secret and first family safe. Mopping up and may need a larger jail. Signed Special Agent Gibbs NCIS.

Over John Shepard's "Okay, will pass that one on. Next." Jack smiled knowing their plans were working.

"Second is from General Landry with a confidential data burst for Colonel Mitchell and Richard Woosley, to be passed on to General O'Neill and Colonel Carter when they are available. The open message to SG1 and guests reads. All safe and calm here. Our extra guests are staying while General O'Neill is with you, they have put in a request for a visit when dust has settled. We transferred goods from a certain basement to keep main guest happy and you're right, he does have a deadly aim. You two make a good pair and might have a boat to fish from if you have to stay there longer than thought. Contact via Daedalus till further notice or we contact you direct. End of open message, which will be deleted now I've passed it on. I'll now send you the confidential data burst."

Knowing the craft his friend had been working on Jack didn't stay to hear Colonel Shepard's reply. He thought of Daniel… nope the corridor outside the man's room.

He realised he'd arrived as he could hear a full scale argument going on between Daniel and Vala, and wondered if Ronon, who was standing in the corridor so he could see into the room through the doorway, was silently contemplating going in there and knocking their heads together. Or to arm lock one so neither hurt the other. He couldn't read Ronon as well as he could Teal'c, but knew those two were on the same level when it came to warriorship thingy. Also when Daniel and Vala got going it was never one sided, and that was why Vala was good for Daniel, with no disrespect to Sha're Daniel's first wife.

Then caught Vala's strained 'had enough' declaration. "Daniel! If you try and walk out of here against the General's orders, Muscles No. 2 out there will do what Teal'c has been itching to do, and knock you for six… on your six and it won't be heavenly stars you'll be seeing."

"You would like that, wouldn't you." Daniel answered though his attention was still mainly on what he had in hands and what he was going to do, knowing it was what he needed to do...had to do.

"No!" Vala spat back, but in an instant changed her mind and added. "Actually, yes, perhaps you should go and tell Colonel Shepard what's on that damn tablet, and what according to you, they've been doing wrong all these years. Then when you come round from that blow you might be yourself again. The Daniel I was handcuffed to in the beginning and fell in love with and want to be with, the one..."

Looking at her with that innocent look that smote a lot of women's hearts, and in the calm tone that should calm any angry person, he answered. "I'm the same Daniel, and you've been talking to Teal'c …

"Yes." Vala broke in quickly, and hoping to get under that tone and push some sense into the man, used her guile and quietened her tone while adding gently. "We both know no one can replace your dead wife Sha're. The love you had for her was something special, and you are angry at the cards that you've been dealt with in your life. I too come with a difficult history so understand that anguish. When we first met, and then worked together on SG1, we built up our own respect for each other and gained strength from that family feeling within the team. That's what's grown into a different kind of love, and at least on my part is still growing. I know you felt it, even started to admit it before you closed down on it. We both need to think forwards not backwards..."

Daniel butted in with the same calm reason. "Don't you see that is why we shouldn't listen to Teal'c and his hints of what happened. We were trapped in time and space for years, with no where to go till we solved the problem, here we can make up our own minds and go where we like. I know can make the difference, I need to, and Jack's orders are in the past so don't matter. Also I know from what I've translated on the first page I need to explain...

Jack sighed, knowing this would go round a few more blocks before either Ronon threw that punch or Vala walked out, and knew he too couldn't put off the inevitable, of facing that golden light at the end of the tunnel. And felt a sudden rush of energy around him, that was so strong it dissolved everything into a deep darkness ...

oxoxo

Opening his eyes and feeling his body around him again Jack looked at the change of scenery, and seeing the person sitting watching him, carried on walking towards him saying. "Nice place you have Jon."

"Glad to see you are looking like your old self." Jon bantered back. "Having a five year old uncle was not good. Thought you might like the familiar surroundings while we talk." then finished with a grin as he asked. "What took you so long old man?"

"Oh. You know, things to check up on and do." Jack answered back, and while wondering if he'd be creaky now he was himself again added. "Not sure Atlantis wants a camp fire in this room. You know health and safety crap. And you could have chosen chairs instead of logs to sit on."

Jon smiled and answered. "So you took long scenic route as a delaying tactic then. Didn't think Atlantis would appreciate your pond with no fish in this room. She's energy so fire is fine, and no heat anyway as it's all in our mind."

Hearing Jack snort and watching him sit down on the log opposite him, so the camp fire was between them, Jon asked. "Any news from up there, I've been here for ages."

Jack nodded his sympathy and commented. "You must admit it's strange knowing our bodies are sleeping up there while we are here. As for news. Well, Gibbs and the kids enjoyed swaggering into that big meeting I set up and arresting the big wig. Businesses and the odd bad guy finding they are broke or have new bosses, and the odd building or contents either gone up in smoke or disappeared off the face of the earth no doubt.

At Jon's knowing smile Jack nodded. "Yeah, factual and figuratively. Commented about needing a new jail … public or under the mountain not sure. Cam and Richard have a data burst from Hank that will probably be more informative than Gibbs' note. There was something about first family being safe so reckon that guess about them going after the family rather than the President himself was right. Hank's had to transfer the latest craft from the basement to keep Gibbs happy, so might have something to launch here if we are not back soon. Confirmed he's got good aim so they must have introduced him to the chair or some of the gizmos the lab boys keep at the mountain." then over Jon's chuckles he added seriously. "Have you decided about staying or going back, yet?"

Smiling at the tactic, Jon flipped it on its head by ignoring it and commenting. "It's nice to know the plans are working. Loved to know what the team think of Gibbs being Ancient. Two Ancients in a boat fishing as the evening draws in. Yeah… like that will happen. Are you going to show him the Waterfall and here or keep him in the dark."

Jack chuckled. "His team have asked for reservations for a visit, so they can bring it with them. Though you might be needed back on earth to cover for us if they do. Rodney and John are enjoying themselves, probably even more as you are a red beating dot on the screen, and I assume I'll show up as one as well now I'm here, of course they don't know who is who. Daniel and Vala are still arguing so we might have to wait a while for him to turn up."

Frowning Jon asked. "You expecting him down here?"

Jack shook his head in disgust that Jon had not caught on, before answering with a huff. "Well, how else do you think we are going to get rid of the rubbish in his brain!"

"All of it?" Jon asked knowing how cross Jack is at his friend's behaviour.

"Nah, I'll leave him with enough so he can tie his shoe laces and ask simple questions." Then Jack sighed and answered properly. "Just the bits of whatever has latched onto his stubborn, 'everyone is against me' side of him. Mind you, everyone is against him at the moment, but he's brought it on himself. Just have to hope the old wiser Daniel will come to the surface and not be too guilty about it all when he realises what's been going on."

It was Jon's turn to snort, then ask seriously. "How and where do we put the bad bits."

"Well, if you studied the room instead of playing boyscout, you would have seen one of the cabinets is a different colour to the rest. That is the trash bin and we put anything we don't want in there, and Atlantis will hit the delete button and it will go into oblivion without any explosions, or ever coming back in the future."

"And you know how?"

"Ohforcryingoutloud Jon! I don't. I ... just ... know ... All right! Like the last time I got down loaded, couldn't answer questions, just knew." Jack huffed back.

"Okay, Okay, keep your hair on! So what do we chat about while we wait for Daniel to turn up, could be ages if he was still arguing. He's got to calm down and then sleep, and we all know what he's like at sleeping."

"Perhaps we should change this to his lab or an ancient ruin when he turns up? Put some sand in his bed?" Jack pondered, he knew he couldn't wait too long. Don't ask why though.

"Could let him know we are waiting for him via that gizmo you left with him. I assume there was a reason you let him have it." Jon put in quickly as though sensing things were … hotting up. Though the camp fire was still burning steadily without any real heat coming from it.

"Distraction mainly, but there are some things John Shepard would be interested in, especially as it looks as though the waterfall is not the only place the single fighter planes are. If you decide to stay John is going to have to get used to using his full title when you are together, because Jon and John is going to be so difficult for everyone. So what's it going to be door 1 or door 2?" Jack finished knowing his clone would understand.

Jon nodded then gently prodding the fire with a stick that magically appeared beside him, and answered. "Think we both know which one. Cassie and I want to stay if Sam will have us. Not sure what to do about the IOA or pay details."

"Sam's fine with that, and Richard will be when we explain everything and will make you disappear amongst the masses."

"And you?" Jon asked.

Jack looked across the flames at him and said. "Of course I am fine with it. Have you decided how Atlantis can help you apart from completely healing you so you can age properly. Thor was so nearly right when he tried the first time, and they didn't know how it would affect the human mind as the other clones died within hours of use. Any rubbish you want to throw in the trash while we are about it. Our childhood might be a good start."

"Was just hoping that your memories could be dulled to that normal forgotten level, so I wouldn't have to keep meditating them away. Don't think I want my past to go completely, though your nightmares can definitely go in there and that's for both of us. You might even get a good nights sleep, and being old again you are going to need it." Jon finished with a smile and got ready to move in case he needed to.

"You should watch that tongue of yours, could get you into some nasty scrapes…" Jack quipped back

"Got you into and out of enough." Jon immediately bantered back, then gave a sigh and added with some reservation. "So how do I go about it."

With a knowing nod Jack acknowledged the banter, then added seriously. "Simple, do a 'Teal'c' and concentrate on what comes through, and chuck out the ones you don't want. Grade down any you want to go in the natural way. I'll be here and keep watch." then with an innocent tone and straight face that hid the last quip, he finished. "You know you'll be able to visit the waterfall any time you want to ... once we find the right little jumper for you of course."

"Oh shut up." Jon laughed, and then nodded knowing Jack was serious, added very genuine feeling. "Thank you, for everything, past, present and future."

Seeing Jack's equally serious nod, Jon closed his eyes and started doing a 'Teal'c' … then getting to the right level he let the visions roll through his mind, understanding that some them would never come back again. Others would soften, even fade with time, and held on to the important ones … the family feeling at the cabin with most of SG1, and Cassie, their friendship and love. The knowledge and understanding he'd gained from Jack. As well as the ones made that morning, of Jack as a child, laughing with Teal'c and the swings they gave him ... the childhood he would have loved to have had.

Feeling the soft warmth, that words couldn't never explain, ripple through him then leave him … He felt a normal quiet peace inside his mind, rather than the harsh hole that being snaked then de-snaked did, or the sharp edge of the memories he had to meditate daily to tone down. Breathing in deeply and then out several times, Jon let his consciousness drift slowly upwards and then slowly opened his eyes. And straight at his other self, Jack his friend/uncle, and found those shadows were gone, he was not a clone of his older self - now he was himself and looking forward to a new secure future.

At Jack's gentle. "Finished nodding off or do you want to go up stairs and do the physical sleep thing."

Jon frowned sure he'd not been too long, and asked. "You know it's done?"

Jack nodded, then explained. "Well, you glowed and rippled a bit, which was disconcerting. But after the golden bubble left and dumped the rubbish in the trash you snored, so I didn't nudge you, just let you surface in your own time." then with a gleam in his eyes, and that disconcerting innocent tone of his, he finished. "And now, you are bright eyed and bushy tailed."

As Jon shook his head and resisted the temptation to look and check he didn't have a tail, Jack added seriously. "The sleep you'll get on the journey back will deal with the physical side of things, so you will be whole with any change of appearance you wanted as well. Don't ask how I know … I Just Know, okay."

"Yes Dad." Jon quipped, before they both looked to see what was crashing into their so called quiet area and time.

And both exclaimed together, in the same tone. "Daniel! Nice of you to turn up."

Daniel was furious as he continued storming into the room and spitting out sharply. "I suppose this is your idea of a joke! Payback for being right! Zapping me, black tunnels and now this charade. I need to go back."

Jack sighed and got up, signing Jon to stay put and be quiet, it was obvious the man was angry beyond reason as the energy, that was Daniel's mind, was rippling violently. He knew his friend could not explode as such, just wake up with a mind boggling migraine that would last a life time. And shot down his own 'the man deserved it' thought, and said sternly. "This is no joke. And as you want honesty I will spell it out to you. If you had slept as I told you to it would have been a gentle ride down here, and a quiet talk to sort things out. As you've not done that, I doubt you actually talked to Vala either. And found out how worried she's been about you, missed your reassuring grounding influence these past weeks, possibly months. I don't know who knocked you out but I'm glad they did, we've not got all day."

Everything about the angry man was Daniel as they knew him, right down to his glasses and arm waving, but with a harder edge that was coming to the forefront as he started his tirade back at Jack. "To do what, badger me into talking and accepting Jon! Grovel at your feet for forgiveness because you think you are always right! He should not be here, at your damn side all the time. He's a clone not a person. It should have been Sha're who was brought back, she had a right to another chance.

And no one knocked me out. I was going to see Shepard to explain what he needs to do, and was met by a forcefield in the doorway of our room. Atlantis doesn't have forcefields as door, but you can command them can't you. We saw that this morning, made it into a chair so you can swan around as though you know everything.

Don't forget it was I who made it possible to find the waterfall and come here with the extra batteries without them you would not be here."

With controlled anger Jack snapped back. "Damn right I would not be down here. I'd be with Sam and the others giving our officers and allies the support and honour they deserved. As for the waterfall that would have been found months ago if you had visited the cabin.

Don't you dare give me the crap about leaving you alone either. We have all tried to stop this barrier you've been building, but you wouldn't have it. You are the one who has hidden himself away and isolated yourself. And I don't know which blasted bit of Merlin, Ori or what ever being that has possessed you in the past, that has clung on to your stubborn, everyone has deserted me streak and been building on it, giving you voices in your head no doubt. It's going to stop, now!

As for Jon, he has every right to be alive and be himself. You are the one who gave SG1 its soul, proved to me that life was worth living and saving ... again and again, that Jon's life was … is worth saving. You lost Sha're and grieved, then found out how to live with that loss and move on, as I do with Charlie's loss … as does everyone else who loses someone special."

"You care of Jon far more than you every cared for me and my ideas. You've never listened to me." Daniel butted in sharply.

Trying to keep his temper toned down, Jack answered immediately. "Deep down Daniel you know that is not true. I listened and have acted on your words and advice when it's been prudent to do so, sometimes when it hasn't, as you well know. As for Jon, you accepted him in the beginning and when it suited you. He's needed my support … needed your support and guidance while trying to cope with the memories he shouldn't have got stronger instead of weaker, and forge a new life for himself.

And yes, I needed your support, guidance during that time as well, most of all needed your friendship, but each time I've asked for it you've turned me … both of us down. You're the one who has lied to all of us when we've tried to help you, not the other way round."

"No! You sent Sam to Atlantis. It should have been me! You made sure I was left behind." Daniel snapped even sharper back.

"So this is what it's all about. But you know the IOA makes decisions about Atlantis not me. They urgently needed an officer and a scientist to fill the gap when Weir disappeared, and you never fitted that bill. Sam kept in touch with you, and what did you do... You spun her stories when ever she asked how things were back at the mountain and DC. As for leaving you behind you, worked with Cam and Teal'c and did the lab work you wanted to do. So you weren't left behind or alone." Jack retaliated forcefully then added before Daniel could butt in again.

"As for that forcefield zapping you, not guilty. But I like it. At full power the City Atlantis has forcefield doors to give privacy and keep areas secure, she never had enough power to show us everything she is capable of or has. She's a computer that works via thought, voice or keyboard input so when I ordered you in the Gate room to stay in your room, and you obviously decided to disobey my order, it zapped you and only you. Anyone else can walk in or out of that room though Vala will need an escort.

For your information Daniel, your mind is down here and you are now lying on your bed unconscious and will wake up when you are yourself. And you will have a lot of fences to mend and bridges to cross because you allowed this to happen."

"You can not keep me here! I need the knowledge of the past..." Daniel shouted back, the anguish, anger of his past losses that had been caught up and built on over the past year or so by the remnants of the many beings that had inhabited his mind or body realising the trap, boiled even more. In doing so the energy around Daniel's form changed into layers of different colours.

Seeing this, Jack knew it was time and ignoring the continued outrage from his friend, called across the room. "Atlantis, take them and leave the original mind alone and heal him."

In a flash the room became its true self, and a golden light shot out from the golden chamber in the middle of the room and covered the irate yelling man from head to toe. In a minute or two it rose making a closed bubble as it did so and sealed itself, while Daniel collapsed in an unconscious heap on the floor.

The golden bubble became odd shapes as though something was trying to get out as it gyrated and glided towards the trash cabinet, but stayed sealed. The cabinet glowed as the bubble got closer then the two stunned watchers saw the bubble disappear inside without the door being opened. A couple of seconds later there was a brilliant flash of light before the cabinet returned to its original colour, and Jack knew all the bits and pieces of bad energy that had helped to turn his friend's mind were gone, and would never come back.

With a shiver going through him, knowing he would have to face the golden chamber soon, Jack turned back to check his friend's energy, hoping the man's mind had not been damaged.

Gradually coming out of shock Jon asked quietly. "Did that happen when I got rid of my memories."

Jack answered easily. "No. It was more like a little thought bubbly you see in cartoons that rested on your head, you wanted it done he didn't. I need you to understand Daniel needs to sleep to heal completely, then he will have to mend those fences regardless of the fact it was the bits left behind that stirred things up. A wilder version of the stress disorder, and as we both know Daniel always finds it hard to accept the hurt he causes when obsessed by an idea that has had some good points. This will be no different. I hope the two of you can find that path back to being tolerant of each other at the very least.

Jon sighed and then glancing at Daniel admitted quietly. "The friendship we've both had with Daniel was not one of the things I chucked away. ... Just took out the bad bits. Let everything soften so I can think and make my own memories." then over Jack's snort and shake of his head, asked. "What happens now?"

Glancing at him, Jack answered. "You sleep and heal. Be with Cassie then chat to Sam. I'll wait with sleeping beauty here. If he doesn't wake down here I'll get Atlantis to send him back and he'll probably wake up with a very large hangover, and will have to face Vala's anger at the very least."

"And Sam's, she never likes being lied to and Daniel did that." Jon commented then asked with real concern. "Will you be all right?" Knowing he didn't want to leave the man behind. They'd both known that kind of pain… even if that was one of memories he had chucked in the trash cabinet, the ethos of it was in his being.

Dodging the answer Jack admitted with some regret. "This is something I have to do alone. Both of you need to heal. Tell Sam what has happened and reassure her it will be okay."

"Like you know that?" Jon queried seriously.

"Yes and No." Jack huffed and turned back to the unconscious form of Daniel, to show Jon the subject was closed.

Feeling he was slipping away, Jon ordered out loud. "Atlantis, keep the setting as it was, and keep him safe."

There was a ripple in the air and the camp fire setting became real again, so hid the chamber from him making Jack say quietly and with feeling. "Thank you, sleep well Jon." then added with a sigh. "Just hope I recognise you next time we meet." Before squatting down beside his friend and calling out gently. "Daniel, time to wake up and go back to your bed and sleep again."

Daniel stirred slightly and opening his eyes, still the feeling the rolling anger inside him as he realised what had happened, and was feeling that deep loneliness left behind, recognised Jack and blurted out. "What the Hell have you done! You've shot first with no regard for my wishes. They listened to me."

Moving out the way so their mind energy wouldn't touch, Jack said firmly. "Got rid of the bad bits for you as you wouldn't do it yourself. Daniel, they were the remnants of the beings that have inhabited your mind. You know right up to Merlin no doubt, left little nasty bits behind to feed on your own insecurities. We all listened to you. And you can't blame all this on Sam leaving for Atlantis, though I suspect that was the tipping point that brought those voices to the front of your mind and you slamming to door on us."

Seeing Daniel's expression change as the truth was striking home, Jack added sternly. "Don't even think of turning those puppy eyes on me or the others. Especially not Vala or Sam. You need to apologize and really listen to what people are saying, and start meditating again as Teal'c taught you to, so you can get rid of that hole in your mind, and get your real voice back."

Still needing to defend himself from the hurt, Daniel bit back. "But I was right to listen to them, and do what I did. If I hadn't you wouldn't have found everything you did today."

Jack shook his head, hoping that this was just the left over waves of anger and said firmly but quietly. "No Daniel, you intended to destroy that planet and everyone on it, or perhaps it was just me you were trying to destroy because you knew the reasons I didn't want to go in that building. And you had promised not to get carried away, you disobeyed mine and Cam's orders. The only reason we are here is because I risked everything to try keep the planet and everyone on it, including you safe. You should have listened to us and told us about the shadows in your mind and the voices you were hearing. I know your fears, and no one would have sent you to that padded cell again. I promised you it would never happen again and I don't make a habit of breaking that kind of promise.

We could have sorted things out so much earlier, might have visited that planet, but with Teal'c along as well so the self-destruct wouldn't have been touched. The same goes for the waterfall and its treasures because something around there was Ancient in origin and that was why I sent you the cryptic email that you never answered, and I know you got it looked at it because of the lies you told Teal'c and the note he saw on the screen when he sneaked in to your lab when you were talking to Hank that weekend. Before you hiss at him, I ordered him to do it and he was worried about you showing one face while working and the lying one to your friends.

If you are fit and everyone agrees, you will have that visit back here at the proper time. But as before it will be IOA's or Mr Woolsey's decision not mine. Most of all we need you back as you used to be … your true self. So you need to go back to your body, sleep and then wake and start really listening to what everyone says to you, and build those trust bridges you've been burning."

With ripples of the old Daniel and the original friendship he'd had with Jack starting to come through his confusion, Daniel admit quietly. "It really did feel as though you all left me."

"Vala and Cam never left you. Teal'c only when he was needed by the Jaffa Council, Sam and myself had no choice, we never do and we always kept our doors open. The only time I've really left you behind was near the beginning and you were fatally wounded on that Goa'uld ship, and I hated doing that, but you found a way out. Now find your way out and take note of what Vala is to you.

She can never replace Sha're and she knows that. What she brings to you is a different love and respect, and she'll protect your back when you travel through space digging up rocks and other treasures. She brings that spark back into your manner as you clash about ideas." And paused for a moment to clear the buzzing around his mind, and tamp down that extra energy that might tip the balance he was trying to keep so he stayed in his physical form ... and not a blob of energy that he could not control.

Remembering some of the clashes between himself and Vala, Daniel snorted and shook his head, then laughed at Jack's final comment before actually seeing what his friend was getting at, and voiced it. "She's sort of the old SG1 rolled up into one person ... her knowledge, fighting spirit and guile."

Seeing the essence of his friend was back again, Jack shrugged his shoulders and admitted. "Okay, so Teal'c might not have the figure, pigtails or cheekiness, but Vala's as stubborn as he is, which means you won't win anyway. Might even still have those handcuffs hidden away."

Over Daniel's giggles, Jack turned serious and added. "She loves you, and that is probably the first time she's felt safe enough to even feel it in her long life time. That is after she's skinned you alive for the way you treated her. Listen to her and your own feelings with the knowledge that you had before all this started, as well as acknowledging the fact Sha're wouldn't have wanted you to be alone for the rest of your life."

Daniel had stopped laughing and really listened to Jack, because he knew the man never gave out speeches of this kind willingly, and realising what he'd missed and the hurt he'd caused, said quietly. "I'm sorry." then added in his usual Daniel manner. "You will come back, you always do ... and we will talk then."

Jack eyed his friend, while saying firmly. "You'll talk and I'll listen, as I probably will not remember all of this. Now go, I don't want to have Atlantis send you back."

Knowing 'that' tone from his friend, Daniel nodded, not wanting that particular bumpy ride again and asked. "Will I be allowed out of my room? I'll need to see Sam and she'll not leave your side you know that."

Jack snorted at the typical Daniel attitude of pushing the boundaries the second he thought he could get away with it, then said. "Only to talk and listen to people, mend bridges and fences and that includes Jon. No spouting off your theories or touching the computers unless under close supervision from John. That will be for your next visit, if there is one, of course. Cam is your boss as head of SG1 so do as he says. It's not going to easy getting their trust back and don't even think of trying your puppy dog eyes on Richard Woolsey."

"Have I got your trust and friendship back?" Daniel asked almost timidly, knowing in a strange way they anchored each other, even if they did bicker and disagree...

"Some of it never left me Daniel, it never can. But you've got to prove to all of us, that you can listen and take it in, or we will think it's the 'deceitful you' covering his tracks again."

"I guess you could say I learnt how to hid from the Master, and I will try to do as you've asked." Daniel quipped back before adding with a sigh.. "I'm ready."

And as Daniel faded into nothing, Jack called out. "Atlantis, let him through the doors but not on the computers unless supervised by John Shepard." Then added softly. "Watch and protect him, and them for me." and then with a sigh he went back to sit on the log by the camp fire, hoping to feel some warmth ... and less lonely.

Not knowing what kind of reaction there would be when he went into the golden chamber, which he knew as lurking behind the bushes Jon had kindly left him, Jack decided he would wait a while. Let Daniel and Jon sleep and recover just in case Atlantis had an overload because of what just happened … or would have an overload when he went into the chamber. And admitted he was stalling … Sometimes stalling was good, it provided another way ... on this occasion it was because he knew damn well from past experience. Having stuff sucked out your head/mind wasn't fun … been there done it twice and it hurt … The sleep chamber as they nicknamed it in the reports wasn't good either. Didn't admit to the others he didn't sleep ... too much chattering in his mind, too many shadows, and way too much exhaustion in his body. Thor's recovery chamber wasn't any better either, even if he did tease the team a bit when hooked up to the ship's computer.

With a sigh he knew he had to face the damn thing … his energy was fit to burst … and wished the damn thing wasn't golden ... looked too much like the Goa'uld's influence … golden spaceships … and nothing good came out of them. Well, except Teal'c and the free Jaffa … they were, are good. And chuckled thinking about Bra'tac being a father … no matter if there was peace that child would have that fighting spirit … it was in Bra'tac's blood. Was in the mother's as well considering she'd been a warrior as well. That lead him on to Teal'c and his family, and hoped he would be with them and Sam at the birthing as he'd promised that morning when sitting on Teal'c's shoulders.

Flicking through earth's morning memories, that had immediately filled his mind, Jack shook his head acknowledging he only had them because of Daniel's actions, and his fear sent a shiver through all of them so he said out loud but quietly. "Atlantis, leave me with this morning's and other good memories if you need to take mine as well as the Ancient ones." He knew deep down that was a possibility. That he'd turned too 'Ancient' this time round and the downloads were too embedded to actually leave him.

Thor had warned him they couldn't be sure all the Ancient knowledge one and two had been extracted, and had made some kind of undetectable barrier so it wouldn't take over his mind, and could not be picked by any other detector. But it looked as though his trip to the planet and making sure the self-destruct got turned off, could have blown that protective barrier to pieces. Also enabled him to pick up any other knowledge that was flying around in that room before he and Cam had dragged Daniel out of there. Or even pick up bits from that Planet's Gate not to mention the waterfall cave that had been zinging with vibes. So, the whole lot was now a big pudding of energy in this room, that could keep him in human form and still keep the camp fire that Jon had dreamed up….

His pondering stopped as he felt a new, shielded wave of energy enter the room.

Looking up from the camp fire, surprise and recognition rippled through him making him smile with relief, and exclaim softly. "Lya!"

Watching Lya of the Nox walk over to the camp fire, Jack couldn't help asking. "Are you really here or is this my mind energy working. Like Jon produced this camp fire and bushes so he was comfortable in the room. And I'm keeping it before I go into that golden chamber lurking behind me and get my head sucked. Because you are exactly as I remember you when we first met, not a day older, clothes and hair style right down to the twig in it? But I wasn't consciously thinking of you."

Smiling Lya gave a gentle tinkling laugh at his comments, then answered softly. "I'm real, and need to know what has happened to bring you to this mind room on the city of the Ancients. And I've come to...

"To make sure I go in that thing." Jack finished for her, and then knowing that sounded rude added. "I know I've got to do it Lya, and I will. Just giving Jon my clone and Daniel time to sleep off the effects of being down here before I do. Can you tell me I will come out all right?"

Settling down on the log opposite him, Lya answered honestly. "We can not see the future Jack, you know that." And waving her hands over the 'flames' made a picture materialize, that was so firm and close it felt real and you could walk straight into.

Jack knew it was her home planet Gaia, and they were outside their family huts with her lying dressed in the same clothes, and asleep on a log table. With Opher and Anteaus at her head and others he didn't recognise around her, all linking hands, heads down and concentrating hard. Then he spotted the youngest lift his head and smile straight at him… Lya more likely as they were her mind links. And watched as the youngster immediately duck his head back down as Opher, the oldest growled some words to him.

Remembering Opher's words on their first encounter, Jack couldn't help chuckling and commenting. "See the young still don't do what they are told." Then as the picture disappeared he added, "I guess they know you've arrived safely." before asking. "How is Nafrayu?"

Lya laughed again, spreading her confidence around the room and to include Jack as she did so. Then answered truthfully. "Since your first visit to us he's been touched by your influence and though trouble at times, we are pleased with the difference. Though Anteaus still tuts about it, I think he too likes the difference SG1 brought to us."

"How did you know there was trouble?" Jack asked, knowing the Gate to their planet had been buried but also knew they could travel without it, so they might have called in at SGC and Hank explained...

Lyal answered straight away cutting off his thoughts. "Nafrayu likes to watch your part of the galaxy, and he spotted a flare from earth that would have contacted a City of the Ancients if had it not been cut off. We were intrigued and consequently tracked you to this city you call Atlantis. From the state of your mind's aura we have little time, but I must know what has happened recently to bring you to this state. The City recognises me as a friend and no one else can sense I'm here so they will not try to rush in or contact us."

With a nod of acceptance Jack brought her up to-date and answered her questions about his team, Atlantis, as well as the fateful trip to the planet and all its consequences. With a gracious nod Lya reassured him that they had not felt the vibrations of a planet coming to a sudden end, or its occupants dying en mass. Then added that they were pleased that he had found his companion for life, and would look forward to meeting the other people at SGC, though he would be the one they would prefer to deal with, they understood humans shorter time line.

Knowing Lya couldn't give him the reassurances he needed, Jack's resolve deepened as the buzzing of the Ancient knowledge was becoming too much and knew it was time to face that golden chamber.

Getting up, and with the deep respect he felt for the Nox, and Lya especially, he said quietly. "You must go. Thank you for staying with me, and for everything. Have a long life and a safe journey back home."

Lya stood, and as they both turned the bushes and camp fire disappeared so they faced the large golden chamber that seemed to have grown bigger, or just closer than before, and a door materialized then silently opened ... ready to receive him. The golden glow that came from inside didn't give any of its secrets up … such as what it was like inside … just that it wasn't blinding him or so frightening now the time had come.

With a final nod of farewell to him, Lya added gently. "We will check on the planet and see they are safe and let you know via Atlantis. Trust in yourself and sleep well."

Jack nodded and walked towards the open doorway, knowing in truth he was not walking but gliding ... he had already become that golden energy that could not be stopped.

Watching the ball of energy disappear into the chamber and the door close on him, Lya immediately raised her arms in a circle, clapping her hands together above her head and said firmly. "Atlantis, retrieve the knowledge as you have been programmed to do and take care of him. …. Of all of them ... They are your future now." Knowing it was not safe stay she disappeared back to her family. Who greeted her with smiles and hugs, as well as a large meal to regain the energy they had all used… and listened to her story.

oxoxo

Atlantis had immediately obeyed the command by setting up a protective forcefield around the tower and link to the infirmary room, as well as the computer in the Gate room. It would let humans in and out of the rooms, but they would be unable to use the computer to change any commands to the tower and the mind room or the where the child slept.

In the room where time and a physical presences didn't matter it was silent, and the golden chamber shone brighter than before. The top part of the golden chamber gently moved round slightly so the golden connector rods linked to one of the large cabinets on the wall. The door to it glowed and received it …. after while it flickered and went back to its original colour, the rod disconnected then moved on to the next cabinet and repeated the performance, and the next until all the knowledge was extracted.

At that point the rod retracted back into the golden chamber and the glow of the whole thing spiked into one short extremely bright burst of light, before the room and everything in it went dark. And the energy link that had joined the infirmary rooms to the tower instantly vanished.

Oxoxo

In the Gate room officers were responding to the immediate reports of the explosion of bright light from the tower and the vanishing of the energy link.

While on the computer to the tower and infirmary in the Gate room – the screen had cleared the static diagram of the mind room and the pulsating dot the watchers had thought could be the General's energy - immediately flashed up the words.

Phase 1 completed.

Rebooting.

Entry to the mind room and tower is forbidden.

And did it.

On restarting, the keyboard and pad seemed to have a very faint tinge of green and red forcefield rippling on it or over it. And, the following words flashed up on the screen.

Starting Phase 2.

Entry to the mind room and tower is forbidden.

Gate, defence and communications operational.

On standby

Will reboot when Phase 2 is complete.

And promptly cleared the screen leaving only the following message

Entry to the mind room and tower is forbidden.

Gate, defence and communications operational.

on all the screens through out the City.

With a huff of worried frustration Colonel John Shepard looked across at Rodney and called out. "The infirmary is on red button emergency only, so either hit or leave a message and they will call back later." Letting his glance rest on the others as he got up from the main communication console, he added. "From latest reports we know Jon and Doctor Jackson are awake and walking and the energy to the tower and link has gone. That leaves the General's condition unanswered.

Mr Woolsey, stall as we agreed if anyone calls. Colonel Anderson and Peterson you are in charge here, don't open the big door and call me if you need any answers.

Rodney you'd better come with me, before you get zapped like Doctor Jackson did when he tried to disobey an order. At least we can see the forcefield this time." and left to go to the infirmary to see how the General and Colonel Carter were, for the second time that day, only this time at a quicker walk as this was not a catch up chat as the other one had been.

And for once that day Doctor Rodney Mckay didn't have a sharp comeback, so kept silent and ran to catch up with him.

oxoxo

If you've got this far … thank you for taking the time and reading ... comments welcome.

As usual will be back when real life and muse allow.

Next chapter we will catch up with Sam and the others, while this was going on.