This has taken longer than expected but as it is still January good wishes for 2018 to everyone.

Huge thanks for dpdp, Schatze820, djenie and Kirbydo for your reviews and messages.

And to all the others who have read the other chapters ... thank you for taking the time.

All the usual disclaimers re ownership and language … and those that duck when I look for them.

Ever onwards ... Vala waiting for Daniel to wake up … which he does eventually.

Enjoy.

Chapter 13 – Vala and Daniel

In their Guest Quarters, knowing full well Daniel always took his own time regardless of the situation or who was nagging him to hurry up, Vala was totally bored and fed up waiting for the man to wake up. Needing to do something again, she got up from her chair and walked over to his bed, for what seemed like the hundredth time, and once there implored him loudly. "Come on Daniel! You've been there long enough!"while waving her hands in the air as she continued to make her point."It was only a tiny zapping! You've had worse ... Come back from the dead quicker!"

Getting no visible reaction from the unconscious man, or the computer screen on the wall above his head, Vala huffed loudly, shook her head in absolute disgust, and turned her back on him to prowl round the room … once again. For something to do she visually checked that nothing had changed since her last prowl round. Of course nothing had, and she had nothing to do. She'd unpacked and put everything away - not that there was much, they'd packed light and in a hurry. Hadn't done Daniel's unpacking ... she wasn't his slave and he could do it when he woke. If he was allowed to stay of course. And silently reckoned there had to be a large question mark over that bit, considering what had happened and what was broken, and wondered if that was why he wasn't waking up … he was hiding in sleep.

Passing the open arch into the passageway where Ronon still stood silently watching the room she glanced at him. Then shook her head conveying nothing had changed regarding Daniel. Getting no reaction from him either, she went back to her chair where she could watch them both with ease. Sitting down she mentally noted once again, the muscled, still and silent warrior was definitely this universe's version of their Teal'c. And this time could not help imagining the two warriors working out together … hand to hand combat or with staff rods… practice ones of course, after all a workout to the death would be utterly pointless for everyone concerned.

Then huffed the visions away knowing this was not the time to have them, but also knew it was better than her highly charged emotions of earlier ... and that argument with Daniel. Knew her mind would run round that block again as it certainly was not her finest hour or action … and to cap it all he managed to scare the living daylights out of her once again … NOT that she would admit it out loud. No way; she had after all her strong fearless female Space Pirate reputation to keep up. And couldn't help silently admitting, ... now she knew it had not been a fatal zapping, or a thrown across the room that ended in broken head or bones either… the stubborn, infuriating human had totally deserved it.

Intelligence, words and charm were his tools in trade, had them in abundance and knew how to use them to get his point across, just as intelligence and guile were meant to be hers. Yes, she could do 'cool and calm' to try and defuse a situation, as she'd been advised to do when trying to deal with his stubborn obstinacy. ... Did it, till he got too deep under her skin ... Hurting from his words she forgot everything and let rip. She had just bared her soul to him, told him how much he really meant to her, how good they worked together, and what did he do … throw it back in her face with really sharp barbs on.

She unconsciously fidgeted, shaking her head so her plaited hair brushed her shoulders as she ran through her side of his accusations. Knew it was true, she had used the man at the very beginning of their relationship, handcuffs and all ... But when she'd left him … she'd found a strange pull that made her want to go back to him … find out what he'd been doing, was doing … and could be of help to her again. Then she started working with him and the team, found they accepted her … faults and all… trusted her and she … well, started to trust them… that was certainly new for her. As time went on she knew Daniel had forgiven her, understood they both had difficult pasts and respected each other. Barriers to over come, were being overcome - till he started to grow away from her. Coming to the end of the cycle of memories knew she really did care for all of them … didn't want to lose them … or earth as a base… a home.

Sighing at the last thought she knew could go and explore this amazing city with Muslcles2 in tow as he was their guard. Knew the other watcher who was out of view at the moment could look after sleeping beauty. She itched to do it. This beautiful place was calling to her … And despite her reputation that she would lift anything bright, shinny and valuable or could be downright deceitful, she wouldn't dream of doing it here. She knew how to behave, had done so on missions … unless of course, she'd been given the nod to do otherwise… to gather information or to save her team and boy did they need saving. It was also true, she did like to handle things and to tease … it was so good to see their reactions … especially Daniel's. But that would all stop now, especially after the words they'd thrown at each other … he'd thrown at her … She needed him to take her seriously and be himself again. She wanted to repair the relationship she hoped to have with him … started to have with him. Even if he'd been the one to tear it apart.

And that was the reason she was sat here waiting for the stubborn man to wake up. To see if he was still the devious, isolating charmer he'd recently grown into or the zapping had reverted him back to the Daniel she loved and felt really safe with. The changes had been gradual and everyone else had put it down to Sam going to Atlantis and not taking him … the option of him going was really never there and he knew it. Would get over it with work as he had when SG1 had been disbanded before. She had given it time but it hadn't. He would show them his work 'face' and attitude they expected but isolated himself from her in their downtime, probably did that to Teal'c but he'd not been there all the time. And Daniel's work was always a good shield to hide behind because of the backlog, some of which she used to help him with. With Sam in Atlantis and out of bounds, she had decided to turn to the only other person who knew the man the longest of them all … The General in DC.

With that memory running through her mind she couldn't help smiling. She'd been in awe of the man, her best friend's husband, (that was a secret that would never pass her lips), their link with the President and the other deeply secret bases in the country, as well as a legend around SGC. Just drop the words 'The General' into a conversation with the established members of staff and they knew exactly who you were talking about, would with the deepest respect tell tales about him. Now she'd met him, she knew he didn't throw his weight around - his right to command came from deep within him, and he showed everyone (officers and civilians alike) his stern but affable face. Certainly wasn't one to cross ... and could wear his cover-story, along with it's personality and deflection skills like a second skin without a single flaw in any of them.

She'd done the same thing, her life had depended on it several times so she should have seen the signs of how shocked and totally exhausted he must have been, considering what he'd been through before he arrived at the mountain. Knew that everyone else who actually knew him had missed the signs as well. True, she hadn't known what to expect from the man till she'd actually talked to him face to face. Her phone call to him had been very short and guarded. No one in DC could know she existed and it was off the record this end, so Cam and General Landry didn't know she'd made it. Sam had given her the contact number and phone before she'd left for Atlantis, 'a just in case the need arose' neither of them believing it would be necessary ... He hadn't laughed at her, and told her to call him Jack, which didn't seem right as Sam was in Atlantis and he was a very high up General. Had admitted he knew something was off and promised to tackle Daniel on his visit, 'shouldn't be hard as the man was bound to bug him about the other trip' and then politely closed the call.

Considering where they were now, ... that hadn't gone too well… Daniel had definitely shown his devious side. He had hounded The General about that other trip, but always made sure there were no opportunities for a more private conversations between them. With Daniel dodging her and time running out, and the General not wanting an official manhunt, they tried Walter's evening call of "Doctor Jackson to the briefing room". When that didn't get the result they needed, she and The General left Walter in charge of the announcement and the briefing room they went off to track the man down.

Some hope that was. Lots of places to hide and any airman on the evening/nightshift who met the 'wanted' Doctor got the cool convincing charm treatment… that he'd either just come from or was just going to the briefing room, ... and obviously Walter hadn't got the message yet. Of course, the man promptly disappeared from the area in question, even with the help of security cameras and The General's knowledge of the mountain they were hunting a ghost. But that was better than waiting in the briefing room, and couldn't help smiling again as she remembered The General's exasperated expression and huff as they decided to call it a night. "Guess he actually listened to me and I taught him too well. He's promised to hand over the present for Sam to celebrate our anniversary. As he said, it might not be the actual day but at least we would be together. Didn't stop him from an extra dig how he should hand it over in person as it was a such a state secret. Then walked away as I tried to call him out on it. So I will definitely see him before I go."

He certainly did that, but not in the way he'd wanted it... And thinking back to the walk she had with The General that evening, she knew he wasn't only a good listener but could get under personal barriers without you realising it. Knew Sam was a bit like that as well, but he had it down to a fine art and she had opened up to him in a way she hadn't done to anyone else, or herself come to that. She had of course set out to use the time to get all the information on coping with Daniel ... she had that in the end as well, and found out she'd been doing the right things … sort of … just needed tone down on her attitude … Hence her earlier actions … before she'd let rip … and her thoughts while waiting.

And smiled, realising for the first time - The General had been making sure she was suitable for his friend, and would have acted differently if she hadn't come up to scratch. Could have her thrown out of SG1 or made earth off limits with just a couple of words to General Landry, had probably acted as the final word in letting her stay in the first place … And was glad she'd admitted to him that she was finding her true self … That wasn't easy considering her past and the 'people' she'd been to survive, willingly or forced to be. Was finding out what it was like to care about people again and trust them, not to just use them then run. Also and probably the most important thing ... that Daniel was the first one she truly felt at ease with, to want to be with for the rest of her life, to swap intelligence with. And remembered The General's supportive chuckle and added word 'obsessions' to which she nodded and explained she'd had her own obsessions so understood them and would always make sure Daniel was safe. Which had got a nod of understanding from him and a quite 'don't forget the sharp back chat and blame for being dragged away from the most important thing going.' She'd chuckled at that having seen examples on missions, but Cam or Teal'c were usually on the receiving end. Now she understood how it hurt, and that Daniel's recent actions could have destroyed something unique and precious, but not on The General's side at least. Regarding Daniel's side of that particular coin ... she would wait and see, but would not let him duck the issue as she would have done if she'd not met The General.

For her part at the beginning of that walk ... she'd been unsure of The General's reaction to her and being in awe of the man, she'd fallen back behind her personal shield … the bouncy, over the top, chatty innocent young woman shield. It had served her well in the past, even with the team at the beginning so no one knew what she was really thinking or feeling. Didn't this time, he'd seen right through it and gently eased the truth out of her, then told her she was just what Daniel needed even if he didn't want to admit it to himself. Also the man might like riddles and teasing out the truth from his artefacts and old languages, but because of all the losses in his past Daniel needed a steady emotional rock in his life that was open and on the level. She needed to explain her true feelings and be willing to wait him out, she could do that as their intelligence matched each other.

Thinking about the honesty and respect it was said, she remembered his other words … promise … that no matter what happened she would not be turned away from earth, this was her home for as long as she wanted it to be. And knew she wanted the same thing and if Daniel was allowed to stay on Atlantis then she would stay and make her home here as well. And suddenly felt the shiver of doubt/guilt shoot through her as her mind jumped back to the final stage of their bitter argument, and couldn't help wondering if she had tried harder she would have stopped him from getting zapped.

And saw him once again clutching the Ancient device to his chest as he spun away from her, declaring loudly that he alone could inform Colonel Shepard what to do and what they'd been doing wrong. With the earlier sharp verbal barbs he'd thrown at her - implying she didn't know anything, didn't care and didn't matter - stinging her into silence and immobility, she watched him go. Knew that though she found it hard to come to terms with the fact his closest friend looked like a 5 year old, could talk to the City as well as alter the Stargate and had more power than anyone else … Daniel was willing to disregard The General's order. Watching Daniel get closer to the archway she'd noticed red and green flickering lights suddenly appear along the edges of the archway, and realised immediately they were a stop warning. One that Daniel didn't take any notice of and when he got even closer there was a flash of a forcefield tinted red and green reaching across the gap in the archway in front of the angry young man.

He still didn't stop or pay any attention to the lights and she didn't call out to warn him. Should she have called out … Was it her fault then? … And saw once again Ronon's startled look and heard his warning cry just before the man stepped into the archway and the forcefield. … And saw once again the blue flash that zapped Daniel into unconsciousness, and realised nothing would have stopped him. It had taken her breath away then and did so again as she relived it. Instead of being thrown back into a crumpled heap like a Goa'uld zap would have, the red and green tinted forcefield seemed to wrap itself round him and deliver him gently on his side in the recovery position on the floor. Almost as if it was apologising for the action it had taken, before the forcefield and flashing lights disappeared completely back into the edges of the archway.

She didn't need to see the rest again as she could still feel the fluttering fear through her system. - Fearing the worst she had ran to the man's side and checked he was still breathing … he was, and heart beat was strong and steady … and in that moment she'd felt like swearing at him for being such a stupid stubborn idiot. Ronon having cautiously come through the archway and into the room, had radio'd it in, before then gently picked the man up to put him on the bed. There was no time for words as they both stepped away from the bed pretty sharpish because the wall at the head of the bed suddenly rippled and a screen appeared giving them life information with a note at the end - 'There is no danger to health now. He will wake when ready.' and so she'd been waiting ever since.

She knew the board was linked with the infirmary so if things went wrong there would be instant help. And she hadn't been surprised when Colonel Sheppard came by and looked at the Ancient device that Daniel had been clutching and found it, as he'd put it very heatedly … as dead as a dodo … She knew what that meant, Sam had spat it out in the same way when an alien device she'd been checking over had suddenly sizzled with a flash and a bang, ended up with black smoke and screen that wouldn't come back into life. Teal'c had been with them so they'd quietly left Sam and her lab, and he'd explained it's meaning and other odd sayings he'd come across. After that they'd spent time exchanging some of their own sayings and grew to respect one another.

Thinking it over she reckoned Colonel Shepard would have taken the news back to Sam and possibly Cam, and he'd already threatened to chuck Daniel off Atlantis if he broke an order … well he'd done more than that … he'd broken the Ancient device The General had given him to look after...

And realised there was movement on the bed and new words were flashing on the board … not in a bad way ... just alerting her and the nurses in the infirmary Daniel was stirring … was waking up.

Getting up, feeling all her emotions rippling through her once again she nodded to Ronon to indicate what was happening. Noting his nod but no other movement to indicate he would join her, she walked over to the bed trying to get her thoughts and emotions back under control. Enough for her to make the stubborn man understand what he'd done, and find out if being zapped had brought him back to his proper senses … and if not … not be so angry she would chuck him off Atlantis before anyone else could. She had to play it all cool, calm and collected ...

oxoxoxo

Daniel was slowly surfacing, his mind jumbled with flashes of memories he couldn't place or recognise yet. This foggy waking wasn't unusual for him, it happened when he'd been trying to translate artefacts of any kind for long stretch of time or even getting back after an emotional mission. This usually lead him to raid the coffee machine as soon as he was able to get out of bed, it would clear his head and let things fall into place … after he'd found his glasses of course. What he was waiting for and starting to miss, was the edginess in his being that had been growing and giving him strength. That inner voice that made everything he needed to do or find out extremely important, and he was right in his convictions regardless of what everyone else said. That he could and did stand on his own ... didn't need his friends or Team too close, and Jack was the one who stood between him and Atlantis and always would. And, the only way to crack that nut was to take everything away from him especially now he was relying on Jon.

Feeling those whispers disappearing into the strange quietness amongst the jumble mess of memories or dreams, Daniel started to recognise bits and pieces, and heard his quieter inner voice. The one he used to use to put flesh on the bones of the languages or histories of the past or present cultures he was studying, or hoping to study on the next mission. And instinctively knew he'd been on a bumpy ride to or from somewhere … through the Gate perhaps? … And wanting to stay in this new gentler quietness a little longer, he stretched then started to turn over and snuggle back into the deeper sleep knew he'd just struggled up from.

But he couldn't, that quieter inner voice or his senses started to niggle a few facts like … this was not his usual bed … he was not in his apartment or on the base, ... certainly wasn't the infirmary inside the Mountain or the Academy Hospital … the light fresh airy smell was soo wrong. His mushy mind then started to wonder just where Jack ... no he was in DC . So it had to be Cam, who was getting as bad as Jack, had pulled him away from his work ... and got clear flashes of a child in a chair of some kind in the Gate room of Atlantis. As that chunked into place, he realised it was Jack and he'd gone Ancient … but also knew he'd just been talking to the adult Jack. Had been reassured by him … and heard his own name being called … Not by Jack …but a female voice and reluctantly opened his eyes… and was immediately hit by the light in the room.

Screwing his eyes up and automatically starting to search for his glasses so he could see things clearly, and therefore get his mind completely into gear… He found his hand was grasped gently and his glasses put in it. Putting them on and what was in front of him came into focus he exclaimed in surprise. "Vala! What are you doing here? Were are we?" and found another large chunk of memory regarding the argument they'd had, smash into place, but not a lot around it … yet. Realising things would come clearer, and he needed to explain about that other voice as well as his talk with Jack. He did not blurt it all out in defensive mode as he usually would have … Her apprehensive expression and a strong whisper in his mind – that he needed to listen rather than take the lead on his explanations – but no idea where it was coming from made him stop and wait for her answers.

Taking in Daniel's rather blank expression, the lack of his usual rush of long winded explanations or resumption of that bitter argument the zapping interrupted, Vala bit back the very short and sharp retort that had instantly flickered through her mind. Instead and remembering The General's advice, as well as hoping she would do better than last time, she took a deep breath, quietened her 'bouncy' shield that was threatening to engulf her, and gave a polite factual answer. "We are in the Guest Quarters in Atlantis, and I've been waiting for you to wake up. Actually, everyone's been waiting for you to wake up. Food will be along very soon, which is just as well as you've been hours and I'm starving. I ordered light chicken salads for both of us as I didn't think you would want a heavy meal after being zapped while trying to leave the room against specific orders." and couldn't help herself as she finished sweetly. "You do remember that don't you? But don't worry, we know you are all right because the medical screen behind you says so."

While trying to take in Vala's attitude and this information in his still churning mind, Daniel recognised the City's architecture … and immediately felt the excited flip of success, before shifting round so he could see what she meant in that 'sweet' finish of hers. And for a moment was even more confused – it was not in Ancient as he expected, it was in modern English - and the chart on the screen confirmed in medical and layman's terms, he was 100% okay.

Then read the message that was under that information.

Hello Doctor Daniel Jackson.

Now you have rested you must eat, then you may explore my City with Vala and a guide. Please remember to obey ALL orders that have been and will be given to you. And NOT to touch my computers. Or I will zap you into unconsciousness AGAIN.

Atlantis

"It zapped me!" Daniel spluttered in heated indignation, remembering that sudden tingling shock before he had blacked out, and as he shifted back to face Vala other memories clicked in place.

Rather than screaming with fright as the messaged had flashed up while Daniel was shifting to look at the screen, Vala was biting back a smile at it's tone, and just managed to get out her comment calmly. "I think the City hoped you would stop at the red and green lights it flashed. When you didn't it zapped you and laid you gently on the floor. This screen rippled into existence when Ronon put you on the bed and the whole thing is linked to the infirmary." then couldn't help her self by adding. "On the bright side, you can walk through the archway into the City if you behave yourself. On the dull side, I'm afraid the Ancient Gadget you were clutching to your chest and obsessing about doesn't work any more." And felt a ripple of tension expecting his angry reaction because of his obsession with the Ancient Gadget.

Instead of flaring up Daniel swung his legs over the side of the bed, and still trying to sort out everything muttered more to himself than her. "Can't have been that long, need to pee." Standing and finding he was quite steady, he made for the bathroom and called back confidently. "Colonel Shepard will be able to deal with it."

Shaking her head at his words and actions but watching him closely, Vala realized he did look more at peace than of late, and this was more like his typical reaction than the earlier angry flare up. Was probably weighing up the points in his favour to counteract the minus ones, and pointed out firmly. "Nope! He checked it over and said it was as dead as a dodo. When Sam used that expression after one of her gadgets got fried, it meant no one could make it work again. And, we need to talk."

Having reached the archway of the bathroom suite Daniel spun round and reasoned out loud. "The Ancients would have protected all their devices from stronger shocks than that. Rodney will know how to connect it to one of the main machines so it will reboot, then Shepard will make it start up again as he's got the strongest gene and mind link. I've really got to go, and if I remember rightly these rooms are soundproof so we'll talk in a moment. I'm fine. We are fine." and disappeared into the short passageway leading to the bathroom.

Vala huffed and fidgeted not really believing what he said … that he could dismiss their argument with a 'we are fine' quote. She knew from The General's chat Daniel didn't do emotions well, truth was none of SG1 past and present did, and from Sam's comments 'that' quote could mean something was lurking under the surface. Truth was they all used it and she could guess what was lurking. The man didn't want to face what a toad he'd been, just wanted to close the chapter and move on. Pretend it never happened, wasn't his fault. Not going to happen this time. Because she needed to know whether it was the good Daniel or the other one was lurking … and if it was the case she would tell Atlantis to him zap again. She wanted her Daniel back, just as much as The General did.

Seeing Ronon step cautiously into the room Vala glanced over at him and said. "He has read the message on the screen. Says he's fine, we are fine. Have to admit he is looking more his old self, didn't hit the roof when I explained about the device. He suggested Rodney might know how to boot it up and with Colonel Shepard's help make it work. It's almost as though it doesn't matter any more, which is odd considering how he obsessed he was about it."

Ronon in his usual silent calm manner took note of it all, then with a nod of agreement he started to turn to return to his post and stated. "Food will be along shortly. If he breaks your honour again, he will have me to answer to." and carried on walking out of the room without looking back.

Vala couldn't help smiling as she silently compared him with Teal'c again, and found them equal, and said. "Thank you on both accounts." and walked over to the chair she'd been sitting on while waiting for Daniel to wake up. Arranged the other chair so the table was between them and they would be able to eat their meal in comfort. Also, Ronon would be able to keep an eye on them without being obvious about it … step in if need be, not that she couldn't defend herself, she just didn't want to add physically restraining Daniel into the mix of things between them. After pouring water from the jug on the table for herself and Daniel Vala turned and watching the man walk towards her, and repeated gently but firmly. "We need to talk."

The moments in private had cleared a few things in Daniel's mind, and weighing things up he missed that other voice, but also knew something had been off … that he perhaps could have done things differently. But if he had they .. he wouldn't be here on Atlantis, Jack would have kept him back on earth. Earth that Jack thought he'd need to defend from something he wouldn't talk about. Daniel also knew he needed to explain certain things, but from Vala's quiet but firm tone, rather than the bouncy one he was used to, he knew he needed to deal with this first.

Stopping just outside her personal space, pushing his glasses back into place, and refusing the temptation to hug himself as it would be an obvious sign he was unsure of himself. Which he knew he was, looking at her, he switched on his charm … voice and expression, and apologised. "I'm sorry for that argument, I should not have spoken to you as I did. I know we worked well together in the past and hope to do so in the future. We both know I will always love Shar'a, and you had strong feelings for Tomin and we both respect each others past. I might have been slow on the uptake, but I do believe there is room for another type of relationship just as binding and precious and I hope we can explore that possibility together here on Atlantis on a return visit. Or while working for Hank at headquarters or on future missions as we will not be bound by the same regulations that Sam and Jack were."

Pausing for a moment for air, but not long enough for Vala to interrupt, he added. "I have been edgy lately, working through day and night but, now that the remnants of past entities have been cleansed from my mind, it's all finished. I've talked to Jack and he's explained it all, and therefore understands I wasn't quite myself. And I've promised him that I will get to know Jon and understand him better. I agree he has a right to exist and I should have been there for him in the past. For both of them. Would have been if work and the entities hadn't got in the way."

Those puppy blue eyes and charming words said with real conviction were taking the fear and argument out of her mind. This was the real Daniel baring his soul, and Vala could feel her bouncy excitement starting to take over. She really wanted this … then mentally shook herself as she heard the last bit. As it sunk in wondered what game he was playing, was he buttering her up so she would not spot his tall story, and asked coolly. "What past entities? And who cleansed your mind? As for this promise about Jon, you've broken every order The General's given you and thrown respect back in his face. So I seriously doubt you would keep that promise. If it was at all real. Considering where he is at the moment, and the fact you've been unconscious on that bed over there. I know you have not spoken to him.

And, I know exactly what you are doing. Also worked out what's been eating you all this time, and it's not remnants of alien entities. It's good old jealousy, and that Daniel Jackson doesn't disappear with a few hours sleep. Or fanciful dreams you hope we will think are the truth, because strange things have happened to us in the past." then silently kept eye contact with him, weighing him up as she waited for an answer.

Fidgeting at that rebuke and gaze, Daniel was also noting this new Vala against the old one, and realised getting her to understand the truth wasn't going to be easy. He wanted to do it before the others woke up, get her on his side, he couldn't rely on Jon backing him up, he'd stayed silent through out the ordeal and would have his own agenda. Feeling the need to change tact Daniel went in to over drive, hands and all, and pointed out. "It's only military people who refer to Jack as The General, you obviously talked to him so you know you can call him Jack. I am not jealous of him and what I told you did happen, and Jon was there. Also Jack really should have explained everything when he came to the Mountain, all of us would have understood, word would not have got back to DC and he could have rested better. Instead he didn't trust us and we needed to go to the planet otherwise we wouldn't have found those batteries or made the changes regarding the ...

Vala wasn't having that and butted in sharply. "Daniel! When you were going back to your room after the returning medical I heard you muttering. That now he would really understand what it was like to have what you really wanted wrenched away from you and be powerless to do anything about it. Reckon that was about not going to Atlantis, but didn't understand it then. I knocked on your door to talk to you and find out what it was all about but you wouldn't answer. Nor would you believe the evidence in the morning that something was wrong. So, don't you dare say you were not jealous of The General finally being able to be with his mate and both being on Atlantis even for a short time."

Over and ignoring Daniel's spluttering denial, Vala changed to a gentler tone, not wanting to get into a heated argument again, and carried on. "We have all tried to get through to you that you are not alone and you are needed, but you shut us out, told us everything was fine. But it wasn't. In spite of everything that bond with The General hasn't broken. The both of us were looking for you but you deliberately hid or avoided us till you forced him to go to that planet. You deliberately chose the time and place knowing he couldn't go against The President orders."

Needing to make his point Daniel insisted. "I'm not jealous of Jack or Sam, I'm happy for them and I wasn't hiding. I was working, so both of you could have found me. But no one did. And of course that friendship isn't broken, that's why he said things were fine between us. Though I don't see why he had to drag me down to that room with him and Jon to do it. He should have just asked, but he never does, he just drags me away when things are going right..."

Waving her hands in the air in disbelief at the man's words and attitude Vala exclaimed. "Daniel! Stop trying to spin a story to get out of it. They have all had to drag you out of your lab or on a mission so we all know how obsessed and stubborn you get. You lied when you met people in the corridors and I'm certain you have not just spoken to The General, and he's not dragged you down anywhere. As I keep saying. You've been asleep or unconscious from 'that' well deserved shock, and your mind has probably dreamt up this excuse to duck out of the truth. And it's not going to work!

Huffing at the fact she didn't get it, and using his arms and hands in his usual manner to emphasise his points, Daniel snapped out. "Yes! I've been asleep but not dreaming. My mind did travel to the room where Jon and Jack were. It looked like a wooded camp fire area probably near his family's cabin. I wouldn't have placed them there so that must have been their thoughts. But, behind that was everything shown on the digram we saw on the computer in the Gate room, before we were escorted here and shut in like unneeded luggage. The column unit was gold in colour with what looked like a door of some kind at the base and an arm near the top that must reach the cabinets built into the wall, that must be how information kept and then accessed when necessary. It was all solid and not a dream."

Needing a short breath he took it, but not long enough for Vala to interrupt him, then in the same intense manner desperate for her to understand he carried on. "Yes, I was angry and I'm sorry for that argument with you. But, that was a result of whatever entity or dregs of past ones that got stronger so slowly I didn't realise it was happening. So not really the real me." then sighed, and changed his tone as he accepted what his memory had been telling him, and admitted. "It must have been the energy and the voice I've been listening to as I've been working things out. … It sounded so like my own inner voice I always use I didn't notice the change." then with a shrug of his shoulders he added. "You all know I immerse myself in the work I'm doing to the exclusion of everything else, it must have kept one part of my mind occupied while it grew so went on undetected. However it was that is why I've not been myself recently. But, in that chamber in the room with Jack and Jon, Atlantis obeyed Jack's orders and took the entity and destroyed it, got me back to a clear mind and full health. So Jack understands about it all."

Still keeping contact with her sceptical gaze and glad she hadn't jumped in, Daniel paused again for a short breath, and instantly mulling it over felt that jolt of excitement as more things fell into place. And started off again, his tone and speed of speech quickening as he put these new exciting points across to her. "Don't you see! It's part of the City's job to gather information from all over the Galaxy or Galaxies... Some of the brains of the Ancients were trained or built for it, they are the messengers of their histories and information, others would be scientists and the healers would have the added gift. It's all part of their lives, the City knows what to do. Jack's mind had already adapted from the downloads the Asgard dealt with, he also got the extra bit when he healed Bra'tac so he will be fine. In fact it will be better because this is the right place to have it done.

I feel the gap where the entity has been because it was totally alien, but, I know it will never come back and I am my old self." Then stopped and sighed with frustration at Vala's look and reaction of scepticism, and realised, that once again no one was going to believe him, and silently churned over the hope he wouldn't be laughed at or thought mad as he'd been in the past. Was still laughed at in some quarters because he couldn't tell the people the truth. Then couldn't help wondering if Jon and Jack would gang up on him and pretend it had not happened, and instantly felt the soft inner-voice reassure him that would not be the case. They weren't like that …. And got distracted by movement at the archway into their room.

Seeing what it was, he immediately exclaimed "Food!" and glancing back to Vala for a moment, added. "We can eat and talk about other things till they wake up and confirm my story."

Glancing in the same direction as Daniel, Vala couldn't help her snort or shake of her head as she commented softly so only Daniel could hear. "You really think your tale is going to cover it. Get you a big collective hug and a pat on the back, and things go back to normal. It doesn't matter what the truth is, you've lied to us all. That includes Teal'c and Sam ... so why on earth should anyone believe your story, or that you are sorry. Because you certainly don't sound it."

Daniel sighed, sat down and silently mulled things over while their meals were put on the table and the officers walked out. He really hated not being believed, he felt insecure and wanted to go into greater detail, hammer the point home till he was believed, or leave the room and hide away. There was no place to hide here, so feeling very hungry he started his meal and tried to explain his side of things again. "I didn't knowingly lie to Teal'c or Sam. As far as I knew I was doing the right thing. They will understand. Jack already understands. We've been through some odd things over the years and regrouped. Perhaps if I hadn't been under that influence things might have been different. But, if I hadn't acted as I did, I would never have got here and Jack wouldn't have found the batteries …

Glad she hadn't been eating Vala cut in exclaiming sharply "Right! So now you are going to claim all the credit!" taking a quick breathe while pinning him with her sharp gaze, she added coolly. "Well, you can stop right now, which ever Daniel you are.

You see, while you were sleeping I worked out that if you had left well alone and not been jealous of The General and helped him when he asked you in the first place. The four of you, because Jon and Teal'c would have been with you, would have found the batteries and whatever else is under that waterfall they found this morning, months ago. You might even have been here on Atlantis if The General couldn't be spared from his covert work on Earth. Jon would have been healed and saved months of anguish and pain, that of course would have helped Cassie who also cares for you. As for that planet and people you dragged The General to, things would have gone on as normal … certainly would not have that scare about that self-destruct thingy going off as it nearly did ... or possibly did for all we know. And, The General would not have given his life energy to try and save the planet, people and don't forget the rest of the team with him, and that included you."

Seeing Daniel's expression she stopped any comment from him by adding sharply. "Yes, I have read past reports so know about self- destruct and life energy sucking devices SG1 came across, have actually seen a few you lot haven't heard of. Certainly wouldn't lock myself in the room with one against orders and the warning signs as you did! Also if none of that happened and The General had arrived here on time, the City Atlantis could have been whatever back up plan The General thought of to help Earth. Instead we have to hope Colonel Reynolds and his team can cope if things on earth go pear shaped. And we all know that can happen don't we."

Still not letting him butt in, she finished. "So, don't you dare try and claim none of this is your fault. Or you are the big hero who has saved the planet and is saving the City or Earth. Especially not to Teal'c or Sam, and I certainly wouldn't try handing over that anniversary present you told The General you wanted to before you snuck off and avoided us. And You Did Avoid Us!"

Sighing, knowing they would never agree, they were seeing it from their own actions and memories, and after a quick thought Daniel grudgingly admitted. "Granted I shouldn't have made such a fuss about the present, it was never going to be given on the right day anyway. I'll give it to both of them when things are back to normal. But I was not avoiding anyone, just extremely busy so couldn't stop to chat with Jack as he wanted. Not that he was telling us the truth about things so I doubt anything would have come of it if we had."

Refusing to feel guilty about the episode, Daniel immediately changed gear and with his usual confidence when he felt he was right and carried on. "In any case, Sam understands these things, sees the bigger picture and everything is going to be fine. The City is all geared up now. Also, if earth needed Atlantis, Hank would have called via the Stargate or our spaceships immediately he knew, and he hasn't. Of course, now we know the City came from Earth and can easily travel to different Galaxies, we can go back at any time and stay cloaked. Shepard's gene is strong enough to do it, all he lacks is the Ancient Knowledge that Jack had. He can get that from the new tower with Rodney's help as he is the one who understands the computer system. There is bound to be the City's own history as well as anything it picked up before it was abandoned, as well as anything taken from Jack, of course. The Ancients were probably so tied up with this ascending business they forgot the original reason for that room and tower. Not that we are likely to hear anything about the new tower or what is happening, we both know what the Military are like about keeping things to themselves, even if Sam is in control."

Sighing loudly at that attitude, Val stopped short at voicing the pithy comment that crossed her mind, and silently hoped these were the dying moments of the other devious Daniel, and his wild story was true. Because if it wasn't, she wasn't sure she wanted to be around him, no matter what new feelings she had about him and their future together.

Ronon moving in the passageway stopped her thoughts and kept Daniel quiet as they both watched with growing interest.

The reason was simple, Ronon being the silent type and since meeting them had shown little facial emotion at all. Was now relaxed and with a smile started to bow in obvious reverential greeting to someone in the corridor out of their sight. Who ever it was, was silent … verbally and movement. Then as Ronon straightened back up to guarding stature again, his serious expression and attitude were back in place, and he gave a silent nod with the right inclination to tell whoever was still out of sight, they could go in.

With their expectations rising …Vala and Daniel both silently considered it was either Sam or Jack and their doubts, arguments disappeared … But then their thoughts were momentarily frozen with more than a hint of disappointment as they became aware it was not Sam or Jack … Unless they'd been transformed into a different form. And they doubted that because Ronon obviously knew the being who, though walking up right, practically bounced into view and was now bowing to them. On straightening up and facing them, they understood Ronon's smile because a wave of great happiness, excitement and pure delight seemed to fill the room.

Feeling it, Daniel fleeting decided that if the being raised and clapped it's paws/hands together and started chanting happy words - he was getting out of there regardless of what the City might do, or perhaps he should cut himself to make sure there was blood in his veins and not white lubricant. And found that fear and memories were washed away by a feeling of peace and a huge amount of curiosity and conviction rushing in. That this was just one of the many strange native species of this Galaxy and was obviously a member of staff. Wow! … and his mind closed the old chapter and went into new chapter and questions observations ...

Vala on the other hand, though curious was quickly silently ticking the major assessment boxes before the being had time to actually greet them. 'It' as there was not obvious sign on gender, had to be friendly and house trained… So no eating guests or staff. On the short side … say 4ft odd standing upright … on all fours, medium build so a 'big cat'. Unable to see a tail as the 'cat' was wearing short sleeved white doctor like overalls and trousers, it could be hidden by them or just lost it during evolution, because it was no longer needed. No shoes … rounded paws with naturally hard wearing padded soles ... hence silent approach. Claws if any were well tucked in out of sight.

Beautiful short soft looking fur, colour the full spectrum of purple from light to dark in stripes around the body not up and down. With sparkles of gold on the very tips of the head fur, possibly arms and legs if they were not caused by the light in the room. Any brighter and be a dead give away if hunting. Short slender fingers from paws instead of sharp retractable claws. That had to be a plus point regarding meeting new races or each other come to that, therefore a bit like us in technology etc … Cooked food rather than on the bone and raw or hunting it. Unless of course this was the City's rat catcher here to tell them there was a problem … and that was why Ronon was smiling and bowed, relief the problem was going to be cleared up at last.

And, instantly discounted that as she concentrated on the face … just like humans but with a smaller nose and big eyes, skin was smooth, without fur but light brown with a hint of green running through it … emerald green rather than a sickly yellow green … strange but not off putting, good camouflage in wooded area. But why purple fur then. The ears were definitely catlike, small pointed and at the top of each side of the head where the fur started again, probably good for hearing. So how was it going to talk … cat meows and purring, like the one she had befriended on earth in the Mountain, or like their own learnt through contact with the crew. Or via a translating device as Ronon hadn't come in to act as guide and helper. Glancing across at Daniel to see how he was, she couldn't help smiling with a silent sigh... The man was totally entranced and their previous discussion completely gone out of his mind. … A new race, new meet and greet … Oh great!

And immediately turned her attention back to the catlike being, because having straightened up from the bow, it gave a long blink and then spoke. - The language was modern English, the tone was sing song, not so high it was uncomfortable to hear or so low it could not be understood, it ranged between the two with growing bubbly excitement rippling through it and the being – A bit like an excited teenager who'd just won his dream and was trying to curb their enthusiasm and delight while talking to them. And failing, but as she listened Vala could sense there was great knowledge in the being, so nothing should not be dismissed lightly.

"I am U Sang a holistic doctor of mind and body of all beings of a planet in the far corner of what the Sons and daughters of earth and of the City Atlantis have called Pegasus Galaxy. The translator in my neck is linked to my mind and will allow us to understand each other, and I apologise for my slight and occasional hesitation. I have been in Atlantis for only a short while and there are so many languages it gets indigestion and can hiccup on me. The good doctors of Atlantis City have asked me to confirm all is well with you both."

U Sang stopped and with a shrug of his shoulders and a light exclamation added. "Opps! … My humble apologies I should have greeted you properly first." and after a quick duck of his head in apology, he tilted his head slightly to the side as he registered his translator, satisfied he looked at the couple then chatted on brightly. "Oh dear, oh dear, I'm so excited at this great honour I am tingling so much that I U Sang forgot my manners. U Sang is the name son of earth, the Ancients and City of Atlantis Colonel John Shepard, and his honourable team gave me when they rescued my poor damaged craft and brought me to this beautiful and honoured City. My distress call reminded them of singing but could not be understood, but they came anyway, and U Sang was a phrase they used when talking and as I like it and everyone can pronounce it, I am keeping it. I should make clear it is the letter U rather than the word You as in you and me, and is in two parts though said together as though it was one word. Each one honouring my two birth names."

Starting to walk towards them and though taking some control of his emotions, he bubbled his greeting to the pair, so it came out with hints of trills and purrs in the right places. "Greetings son and daughter of the planets of all universes, Doctor Daniel Jackson and Vala Mal Doran, and life long partners to each other. I am U Sang" and stopped again, this time putting his hand-like paw to his mouth seeing the couple's stunned expression and then trilled gently almost to himself. "Oh! I think I've put my paw in it again." then louder with a gentle purr in his words added. "I apologies and ask if son and daughter of…

Vala managed to find her voice and stopped him gently but firmly. "Vala and Daniel will be fine U Sang, and it's an honour to meet you. We belong to SG1 and work together and are not partners in the way you seem to mean."

"Perhaps you mean friendship as we have been that. U Sang." Put in Daniel before asking. "You say son of earth, the Ancients and City of Atlantis Colonel John Shepard, but I also come from earth." wondering why the greeting term was different.

With a slight bounce running though his body, glad he'd not made a really bad mistake, U Sang explained. "Ah! I see you do not feel it yet. My species can sense many things that others can not see or feel. Perhaps once you have got over your experiences Doctor Daniel, and you Lady Vala realise you can trust him once again, now the hybrid Entity has been cleared from his mind and body. I do see you want to trust him and that is a good way to help re-build and cross the bridge that has been broken between you, and this should be done together rather than one at a time."

Leaving the couple speechless again, U Sang tilted his head slightly as he quickly sorted out his thoughts then turning slightly so they would know who he was addressing carried on in his bouncy, purry manner. "Doctor Daniel, having had many life changing experiences in the past they have left their mark on you. This means you are no longer just son of earth but now of all planets and universes."

He stopped bowed slightly and turning his attention to Vala and added. "Lady Vala though your experiences are different you too are daughter of all planets and universes." then he blurted out in rush of excitement. "It was so exciting when you all arrived, though very disturbing to see that the hybrid Entity had taken hold of you, Doctor Daniel. But good it was restricted in you by Ancient binding and most satisfactory to find out it can be destroyed without harming you, and I am given the honour of making sure this is so."

Vala butted in sharply. "We did not see you there and you said hybrid Entity."

Very excited U Sang explained. "That is so Lady Vala and now he is free from it. You did not see U Sang as I was tucked out of your sight and you were only expected to see humans. Observing the scene I noted Doctor Daniel was in a protective circle and your team were checking on him, no doubt ready to restrain him further if the need arose. It did not because the bindings were strong enough and were still growing. Once those bindings were made within Doctor Daniel it would have been unwise for the one who made them to travel with him, because they might have fought within the Gate and this time neither might survive. It was also possible the Gate would not have survived either. Of course the first time through they would have been all right, because that could have been when the bindings were made with or without either participants knowing about."

Vala was stunned into silence by the statement and started to realise Daniel's wild story might possibly be true.

Feeling elated that his explanation was being proved right rather registering the brief details of it, Daniel's thoughts were stopped in their tracks by what he was seeing and exclaimed sharply. "U Sang! You are glowing gold rather than just sparkling at the tips of your fur."

"Oh! Oh!" U Sang exclaimed as he looked at his arms and paws that were definitely more gold than purple and rushed on. "That is not good. I must meditate and calm myself. Soon it will be the beginning of my 200th year of my second life and I should be calmer after that. In my first life I was a life giver so had a family and looked after our planet's libraries." Glancing up again and concentrating on the couple, but still obviously excited carried on without a break. "I know you Doctor Daniel and I will have lots to talk about in the coming Atlantis weeks. For my second life I decided I would be a doctor and travel the dark sea of space in my ship. The argument with the meteorite when coming out of fast flight is the reason I am here rather than finding a life giver for my second life. I hope when my ship is repaired we might contact my planet and find one who will travel the dark sea of space as I so excited to be here, especially as I nearly lost all my future lives ..

"U Sang!" Vala interrupted very sharply, realising he was another Daniel when in full song … And couldn't help smiling at that word because there was music in the tone of his voice … Also as U Sang stopped and looked at her with a smile, rather than a snarl Daniel might have done recently … it brought her up with a jolt … she was starting to accept the story might be true. Especially as The General had given Cam the order to zap Daniel if he started to miss behave so could that mean … and stopped her thoughts to listen to U Sang again.

U Sang had ducked his head slightly again, then glancing back at them said. "I apologies for going on like a waterfall in full spate. Son of earth and the City Atlantis Doctor Rodney Mckay, complained greatly when I babbled on the first time without a break, which made Colonel John Shepard laugh a great deal. I will only take a moment to calm myself back to purple then I will examine you Doctor Daniel or your food will get too warm and be uninteresting."

With that U Sang turned so he was side on to the couple and then bowed his head and closed his eyes.

Vala couldn't suppress her quiet giggle and Daniel hissed "What?" She turned to him and said quietly. "You two together. There would be no stopping either of you."

Daniel smiled, knowing that was true his mind had already jumped from the entity to U Sang's history and commented in his own version of bubbly rush. "True. Wonder how many lives he has, might be 9 like a cats are reputed to have. Wow! That could be where the folk stories come from … we don't know if he's always been in this Galaxy. He said life giver does that mean they can change sex or both sexes reproduce I wonder … "

Vala butted in "Or he just looked after his family, house-husband a bit like the male Seahorse looks after the young if you want the an..." And stopped.

Amazed she would know that kind of information Daniel's mind immediately changed tack as he exclaimed. "That's certainly different!"

Vala certainly agreed as she remained silent and watched U Sang.

Eyes still shut and standing perfectly still U Sang was now exclaiming to himself. "Oh! Oh! ... Too far. Too far ... Must go back!"

His fur had turned jet black and the green and brown of his skin had also darkened, facial features more catlike than human, fingers gone into sharp claws and in his feet as well, lastly a bulge in his white overalls showed he did indeed have a tail. A large panther like cat, one you wouldn't want hunting you... Then in a ripple of black and purple through out his body he was back to his purple stripped gentler being, with hand/paws rather than claws and his toe claws hidden … and the golden glow had gone completely.

Opening his eyes U Sang turned to the couple and noticing they were fascinated rather than horrified by the process and knowing Ronon had seen it all before was about to apologise.

But was stopped by Daniel's statement. "You are an ancient who can change shape."

U Sang shook his head as he answered. "No, we are not of the Ancient family. But in the distant past our ancestors were friends with them and many others including ones who could changed shape. There was a great war and our ancestors fled their planet and galaxy to survive. They were small in number and lucky enough to find our present planet and made friends with the dragons of the land, and mammals of the sea that live there. Unable to contact their friends they concentrated on survival and protection of the planets around them. We are now back up to the stage where we feel safe enough to again travel the dark seas of space, make new friends and possibly visit other galaxies. In my first life I was honoured to study their stories and now I am meeting your people and the city of the Ancients you call Atlantis. And through you and this City I hope to hear the stories of the descendants of friends and others who survived the great war.

We share everything with our friends the Dragons and Mammals of the blue water seas as we can manipulate the technology with our paws. The large Dragons who own the mountains and breath fire protect us when we flee to the jungle in our black cat form and wait for the danger or strange visitors to pass. Our cities are camouflaged so are easily missed by intruders or friendly visitors. The large vessels that cross the local air seas or blue water seas are crystal based and have technology to guide and move them. The Dragons' smaller brothers and sisters are our companions when we travel in our small wind sailing boats on the local blue water seas at our leisure. They are not only wise but wake in the later part of the daylight and watch the stars for us as we sleep for a while, their alarm hoots travel great distances, and the sea mammals and other dragons or our own brothers and sisters can rescue us if we get into trouble. The middle sized Dragons live on the plains of our planet all are a delight to watch in flight and the sea mammals of various sizes jump the waves as they swim in the many seas. There are of course other types of animals...

And with a purr and a shake of his head U Sang came back to himself and exclaimed. "Oh! but I digress again, Doctor Daniel and Lady Vala. And wish to examine you Doctor Daniel before I start again."

As Daniel also came out of the spell of listening U Sang with all sorts of ideas whizzing round his head, he started to get up assuming he would need to go over to the bed.

Seeing this U Sang said quickly. "No. No don't get up. All I need is to put my paws on your hands and you to sit still. I can not read minds but I will know the state of your mind and body by doing this. I also beg the honour of doing the same to you Lady Vala."

As she couldn't see any danger in it Vala nodded agreement, and as U Sang started to walk over to their table she blurted out. "He insists he visited The General and Jon in the special room, but I know he's not travelled anywhere since he was zapped unconscious by the City for disobeying an order to stay in this room."

U Sang stopped then asked and in a reassuring purring tone. "Is this true Doctor Daniel?"

"Yes" Daniel huffed, and expecting to be challenged added."I know it was not a dream, and Jack was his adult self and Jon stayed silent. But I don't know what happened to me except I was very angry so he and I argued, then something covered me and when I woke still down there I felt calmer. That was when Jack and I talked. Then I woke up in the bed over there. I also know I have no way to prove it till the others wake up."

U Sang didn't challenge his words, instead he nodded then changing direction started to walk towards the bed, and his words came out in quiet purring tones, as though he was checking things out for himself, so both Vala and Daniel stayed quiet and watched him."The electrical charge would have enforced the Ancient bindings and knocked you out so you could not run .."Without touching the bed U Sang looked at the head of it where the pillows and mattress rested against the wall just below the computer screen before suddenly jumping back away from it.

Immediately turning back to the couple, hardly controlling his excitement, so the higher pitched song in his voice was uppermost, U Sang exclaimed. "Oh! Oh! I am honoured … so honoured. And you could be right or Atlantis could have projected the images to you. Because you travel to different places you believe you travelled to them." Pausing for a moment to calm himself he then went on in a quieter song and purring tone. "Though it is not as large as the golden forcefield that links the tower with the special rooms and beds were the Ancient child and his clone lay, the finer one I can see must link this bed through the crystal lines to the infirmary and on to the main one. It is fading now as you are awake and according to Atlantis fully fit. This is amazing and good news, and Atlantis is a very clever City to do this."

"So his wild story could be true." Vala exclaimed softly still getting over talking to a purple stripped cat who seemed to know everything … and actually trusting it.

Daniel felt elated and amazed as well as the thrill that people would believe him and watched U Sang walk over to him.

Calming his excitement so he could do his job U Sang said. "Doctor Daniel, I need you to be calm but do not fight any thoughts that come through your mind. I will not harm you. You will feel my body warmth through my paws."

Daniel pushed his glasses back in place and took a calming breath then opened his hands and let U Sang place his paws/hands gently on his hands feeling the warmth as he did so. Then watched U Sang close his eyes and give off a gentle rumbling purring sound.

After a moment, satisfied at the information he was getting through his touch, U Sang kept silent so as not to disturb the vibes and broke contact with Doctor Daniel before turning his attention to Vala asked in his gentle purring reassuring tone. "Lady Vala?"

Like Daniel, Vala felt the warmth and smoothness of the under paw pads as well as the slight tickle of the soft fur as it touched her hands. Curiosity peaked she also noted how the stripes of different shades of purple combined to make such a beautiful coat, and started to wonder if they were all purple cats on his home planet. Or were there different breeds, sizes and colours just as earth had. And was surprised to hear his gentle. "Thank you. Lady Vala."

U Sang bowed, feeling his excitement starting to bubble again but contained it and stepped back to address them both. "Doctor Daniel and Lady Vala I'm honoured to tell you that though you might not feel like life partners now, ... it will happen in the near future. Your life span Doctor Daniel is adjusting to the longer one of Lady Vala's so you will not leave each other before the allotted time. Unless, of course an accident or an illness that can not be treated or prevented be falls either one of you. But, if you look out for each other as life partners should do, these things are unlikely to happen and you will find adventure and happiness with the addition of a family is you so desire and their offspring." and paused for a moment seeing their silent stunned reaction.

True Vala was stunned but was also feeling a ripple of excitement for her future, she'd hope they might be together … U Sang had just said 'they would be together'… and oh children … she'd have to get Daniel to behave first...

Again though shocked Daniel was putting the idea on the back burner and worrying about what came next … the second part was always the bad or worse news … and was brought out of his brooding thoughts by U Sang's calm address.

"Doctor Daniel, the hybrid entity that would have ended your life and all of those around you is gone, and you like your life partner are now in good health. But, you should mediate so the gap the entity has left behind in your mind can be closed and disturbed thoughts put to rest. I would like to assist in this matter and suggest that Lady Vala also attends, not only to help you but also to be reassured you are returning to your original personality and soul.

Son of Chulak and leader of the new Jaffa families Master Teal'c can also support you in mediation if you wish. But not at the moment as he is supporting daughter of earth and leader of the City of Atlantis and life mate of the son of the Ancients …

"Whoa!" Daniel exclaimed loudly making both U Sang and Vala jump slightly.

Looking at Daniel, U Sang stayed silent and tilted his head slightly to let the translator run ideas through his mind to understand the expression, then with a purr in his voice commented. "Doctor Daniel I see no horse to stop ... and I am not a horse … But I was talking … so I think you must wish me to stop." and finished with a slight bow.

Reminding her of Teal'c when needing clarity or was teasing Daniel, Vala hid her smile and found it strange her mood was lightening ... till Daniel's apology and comment brought her back to the bit she'd missed.

"Yes please! Sorry. We use the expression generally rather than just to stop runaway horses." Daniel gabbled before pointing out. "You just said son of the Ancients. But surely Jack is son of earth rather than just son of the Ancients. He might have the knowledge but has the same Gene as Colonel Shepard and you addressed him as son of earth first. So why the different address?"

U Sang bowed his head for a moment letting his thoughts clear through the translator, then looking at Daniel explained. "When he came through the Great Gate into the City of Atlantis he was and still is a child of the Ancients. Like you he was born of earth and has been through many life changes, each one has left it's mark, the most recent one has reversed his life DNA. That means it is the Ancient Gene and inheritance that is now dominant and will stay that way as he grows up. The City of Atlantis with it's own knowledge will endeavour to download the Ancient knowledge he carries into the special cabinets as programmed. After that, the City will try and reverse his DNA back to what it should be and bring him back to his proper life and his life mate. I do not know if this has been done before as I have not accessed the City's history files."

"Do you know how it happened?" Daniel asked doubting he would like the answer, and seeing Vala's puzzled look wasn't sure if he'd missed something important or she was thinking he was trying to trick her. Which was not surprising if he'd been as extreme as she thought he'd been. And wasn't too sure out of Sam and Teal'c who would be the hardest one to convince everything was all right. He'd never felt he'd been doing anything wrong, still was not sure he had considering what new finds were coming out of it all. But knew he needed U Sang's version of it all especially to get Vala's faith in him restored and her on his side….

Vala stayed silent weighing things up. U Sang was calmer since that mediation and there was something in his purring voice and manner that made her want to listen and trust this way-out story and life mate thing. These two hadn't met before so couldn't be trying to fool her, she hated anyone who doing that, especially now she'd turned over a new leaf and had trusted SG1. Had had that chat with The General ... And started to worry about him. He was close to Sam who was her friend, and that was a new experience and one she liked, hoped it would get stronger. But if Atlantis couldn't reverse the DNA what would happen to the couple … would they both have to stay in the City … one a child and Sam would be his adult wife. Would that break up their new friendship … make them both angry with Daniel and react badly. And promptly brought her wayward thoughts back to U Sang hoping he would say something good.

U Sang had again ducked his head to gather thoughts and control his increasing excitement while recalling events and get the correct translation. He was better at mixing his own language of song and tones with the complicated words the humans and Ancients, so let the hints of purrs and higher notes of song come through as he raised his head, looking at the couple started to explain. "Doctor Daniel, I will go in detail what I have touched on earlier. Firstly I have conversed with son of earth and 2nd leader of SG1 Colonel Mitchell. He explained the events at your SGC Headquarters and on the planet you visited before you all came to the City of Atlantis as well as the hill top on earth's morning."

As Daniel started to butt in. U Sang raised his paw/hand to stop him and said politely. "I do not wish to visit that time, or your history regarding entities that you have been in contact with in detail Doctor Daniel. But from the information it is my belief the hybrid entity was of many parts, including Ancient possibly ascended/descended Ancient, rather than just one energy source that was at full strength from the beginning. It would have started small, gathering the energy as it went along, including each time you travelled through the Gates to the Stars or even touched an artefact that gave off some energy of it's own. When it was strong enough it manipulated your mind and actions for the main goal of getting you and The General to the planet and the final action."

Seeing Vala's fidget U Sang shook his head, which made his purple stripes more prominent and his countenance sterner thereby silencing her as he went on. "Doctor Daniel because of your past and intelligence you would have noticed the differences or warning signs and sort help. I do not know whether it was out of curiosity or obsession about your work or plain stubbornness you refused to take note or answer your team mates and friends' concerns. And allowed yourself to be manipulated and isolated. It is because of these actions you will need to mend and cross those bridges back to your team mates and friends to regain their trust, and you need to do it with your life mate Lady Vala if you are to have peace of mind and live the life you both stride for and deserve."

Seeing U Sang's purple stripes turn back to their original tone, Vala didn't hold back her shocked butt in this time, exclaiming. "You mean Daniel needed to blow up the planet and The General in order to rule the Universe! How could he ... the entity needed Daniel's body. Could The General have sensed the entity if it was Ancient in origin?"

U Sang smiled at her understanding of the matter, and with a slight nod at Daniel who'd stayed shocked and silent, answered her. "Indeed Lady Vala you have understood the final action, and it would not have needed an earth based body after it was completed. I do not know what form it would have taken to travel the dark sea of space or possibly suck in the dark sea of space. But with the energy from the destroyed planet and those around it, add in the knowledge and power of the child of the Ancients as well as the entity's own power and gathered intelligence, it would have been totally unstoppable."

Seeing their shocked expressions as the enormity hit them, U Sang added gently. "Hold on to the fact it did not happen and it has been totally banished for good."

Before carrying on in his normal purring singsong tone. "I believe it is possible that The General in his adult earth form unconsciously knew you Doctor Daniel needed to go to the planet, but not the true reason why. He uses his instincts to find out what is going on and get himself, friends and team mates out of trouble, and he knew you were in trouble. I'm told he did not wish to enter the building where the Ancient artefacts and self-destruct machine were, but did so to save you and the planet. By doing so and stopping the machine I have no doubt any barriers masking his Ancient knowledge from all those around him, possibly even to himself were broken. And new knowledge was gained from the planet or the Gate to the Stars and all this started the steps that turned him into a child of the Ancients.

This included the binding of the hybrid entity either when he shut down the self destruct machine or as you both travelled in the Gate to the Stars from that planet to your headquarters. If the stories of the Ancients I have been studying in my first life are correct, then it would have been unwise for both of you to travel together after that or have close contact until the entity was banished. As I said earlier the bindings grow stronger in time so at first the entity does not realise it has been caught till they are strong enough to do their job. And to travel the Gate of the Stars together after that could mean a fight between the entity and the child of the Ancients as both would become atoms and would feed on the Gate's energy to vanquish the other. That is why he chose to let you and SG1 with instructions to stun you should you signs of misbehaving come through first and I suspect the Great Gate of this City understood his actions as he apparently is able to talk to this lovely City.

Before this change and full understanding I believe his human adult instincts made him leave you alone, because though a warrior and can kill to protect he would not have wanted to kill you. So he found a safe and meaningful place to sleep and would work things out in the morning. He woke as child because his life strength had been used on the planet and binding the entity, but his mind stayed adult because it is capable of holding and access necessary the Ancient knowledge that with the help of those who love and hold him in great respect around him could make things right.

All of this gives me great hope that with the help of the Atlantis the City of the Ancients, he will indeed have the strength to return to us and take his rightful place amongst up once again. " Stopping, U Sang raised his head in expectation and hunting the sound he'd just caught in the air, and glancing towards the entrance archway he waited for the others to hear it.

Instantly catching the change Daniel and Vala came alert wonder what they should expect and heard a very faint 'tuwit, tuwoo … tuwit, tuwit tuwoo' bird call, which was odd as Atlantis didn't have any resident birds being so far away from land.

At the end of the call U Sang immediately let out an answering high pitched "Mee-oow, mee … mee meow" which though high pitched so it would travel the distance, didn't grate on the ears of the listeners and peaked their curiosity even further.

Daniel had been mortified by what he'd been hearing, but was also doing his natural thing of closing the chapter by racking up the good points. He would be believed, it wasn't all his fault and Jack had forgiven him and would recover. Jon would be cured so everything would be all right. He had after all promised to put things right... And immediately turned to this new curiosity they would be introduced too …. and his next thoughts of what it could be ..

Vala had also been ticking boxes realising she needed to take things in hand if this life mate was right, and if The General was right during their chat, she would indeed become SG1 in one person where Daniel was concerned. And with U Sang's reactions and call shut down those thought but would come back to them later and waited with excitement to see what was making that call.

Glancing at each other they both silently pondered … U Sang was an intelligent talking purple stripped 'cat' who had mentioned dragons as travelling companions and protectors while on small boats. But he'd been in a spaceship of some kind, large enough to travel this galaxy and that had been a bird call. ... So what was it …

But before they could comment or ask questions U Sang turned back to them with an excited exclamation. "Doctor Daniel and Lady Vala it is later than I thought! I must retire and let you have your meal. We will see each other in the morning for our first session together. Lady Vala please contact me via one of the doctors or the screen on the bed if you think Doctor Daniel needs my attention and I shall come no matter the time."

And stopped as another now louder 'tuwit,tuwoo … tuwit tuwit tutwoo' echoed down the passageway. Without hesitation U Sang gave lower pitched 'mee...ow' call back, before continuing to the couple via the translator.

"She has come to find me as I was not with her when she woke, as I have been since our arrival. She is my companion Dragon, or NightOwl as she has been named by the ones who found us. Do not fear she appears larger in flight and dark form than she really is, and does not breath fire because she has not fed on the right minerals recently. I could not risk her fire breath as we rode the dark sea of space. I hope if we visit the landmass she will find the right ones and will also be allowed to breath it again, out of sight of the people who live there and catch her own food. At the moment I must throw her the meat she needs from one of the piers so she can stretch her wings. We usually walk the passageways together so as not to worry anyone. Unfortunately the translators are unable to deal with her language so she relies on me, and mine automatically shuts down when I converse with her."

Totally intrigued Vala and Daniel saw Ronon quickly step out of view to get out the way of whatever was flying towards him, and then fully understood why ... as there was a loud 'tuwit, tuwoo' as a very large black shape filled the archway as it did a majestic turn and then flew towards them. They both resisted the natural urge to duck, because U Sang was standing in front of them with his arm stretched out and raised at shoulder level. And because amazingly the large threatening creature was indeed getting smaller the closer it got to U Sang and themselves.

The dragon was totally black, with wide wings and piercing eyes, beak rather than wide jaws and a pair of talons that aimed for U Sang's arm to perch on. Ones that could penetrate the hide of an animal.

It was majestic and awe inspiring as with another silent flap of her wings she gently glided onto U Sang's raised arm and gave a soft couple of 'tuwit, tuwoos' possibly of greeting, before shaking herself top to the end of her feathers and settling down.

Vala and Daniel watched in silence taking in the amazing sight, not only because the dragon was now smaller … a large owl size rather than filling the archway and very threatening in size and looks. But with that final shake of her feathers, her colour changed from pure black to white flecked with brown, before finishing her transformation, and probably was the reason she'd been re-named NightOwl. And reminded Daniel of the beautiful and haunting Tawny Owl he'd seen on a nature programme he had sat through with Jack.

Rather than the definite stripes of U Sang's fur, NightOwl had the full range of browns from light to dark blending in with each other along with intermittent white flecks, these were more dominant on her chest and head while her wings and back where the shades of brown. Her face was now rounder with reddish brown round her large dark owl eyes, which watched every movement and added to the look of a wise owl, and her beak – though knowing it was just as sharp and could tear her prey to bits it seemed less threatening. Unless of course you were very small and her next course on her meal list.

Giving a slight bow to the couple U Sang then said. "NightOwl greets you with the wish of great fortune in your lives together, and asks that we may leave so she may feed." Giving a long blink and a short gentle purr as he added. "I too ask that we leave now, rather than par take in the talk that is usual on first greetings. When we walk she will sit on my shoulder and my arm will not ache so much, also and more important her belly is starting to rumble and that will get very loud very quickly."

Both Vala and Daniel couldn't help smiling because that purr sounded like a sigh and there was possibly a slight tone of desperation in his voice, so they both nodded their agreement.

As they nodded, NightOwl turned her head towards U Sang and let out another set of tuwit, tuwoos

Immediately thinking she might have interpreted their nods and silence wrongly, Daniel quickly added. "NightOwl it is an honour to meet you and we look forward to our future meetings, and wish you and U Sang a good evening.

To which U Sang gave a mixture of purrs and meows, then through the translator admitted. "Doctor Daniel, NightOwl was explaining that she is not heavy only hungry. She has telepathic capabilities but doesn't use them unless given permission to do so. Even without using them she senses you have a great curiosity and questions and is very anxious to answer them before we leave. From our talks I know this will be true so please only ask one and I will answer it on her behalf."

Daniel's mind was over crowded with thoughts and questions before he could channel mind for a good one he blurted out. "Are the boats that sail your small inland water seas green?"

For a moment U Sang looked totally confused and the little 'tuwit, tuwit ... tuwoo' from NightOwl brought him out of his fugue so U Sang answered his tone questioning perhaps the sanity of it all. "NightOwl and I expected a different question Doctor Daniel, but to answer this one and none other. The small craft that we use for pleasure can be round and made out of bark of trees and woven leaves so they are often green. Some are long being made from hollowed out logs or ones tied together. As they are small we use the natural power of the wind, and crystal power with stronger materials for the larger craft that we use on all the seas." and stopped in embarrassment.

Because they all heard the very loud growl coming from NightOwl who didn't look at all embarrassed.

Hiding her smile at seeing U Sang's purple fur flicker, Vala said quickly. "Thank you U Sang and NightOwl, and give you good wishes for the evening. I will let you know in the morning why Daniel asked that question."

To which, U Sang bowed his thanks over another longer louder growling rumble from NightOwl and turned to face the archway and start to leave. NighOwl gave them a long blink and gracefully hopped from U Sang's arm up to his shoulder and settled down, with a few tuwit tuwoos, which as they walked on out the room were interspersed with U Sang's meows in various forms and tones, and the translator stayed silent. Both gave a bow to Ronon and then walked out of sight leaving the area to silence and normality.

At Daniel's sigh Vala turned to him in disbelief and commented. "Of all the questions that must be running round that mind of yours … why that one? They may be odd but they are not story book characters!"

Unable to answer why it had been running though his mind along with his other thoughts Daniel blurted out. "You know the poem?" Surprised she did.

Back in her bouncy character Vala smiled and enlightened him. "Yes, an old one, written for children about an Owl and Pussy Cat who go to sea in a beautiful pea green boat. Many versions with beautiful drawings and has no bearing on space cats or dragons visiting our galaxy or any other galaxy. And, before you ask how I know. Teal'c introduced me to the story along with many others of all types, and it was The General, though he was a Colonel at the time who introduce them to him. It is another side of their unique friendship you've always discounted for your own obsessions and ideas about them."

Seeing she was getting through to him, Vala turned serious and added softly. "I don't know about this life mate thing U Sang talked about, but I do know a couple of things that you and I are going have to get straight. Main one if we do have a future together you are going to have to pay attention to what I say and act accordingly. Without moaning, and that will go for anyone else we work with, especially Cam being the leader of SG1, you should give him the respect he deserves as well. And we ask each other for help if we need it whether it is to do with artefacts or our feelings for each other or another situation. No hiding or holding back as we have so much intelligence and companionship we can share together."

Feeling ruffled by her words, but could not deny the whispers that were creeping into his mind and body that were saying … 'this was right, what he really wanted … needed ... could do' ... he decided he had to go with his instinct, even if he didn't know where it came from, and with a sigh asked. "Is that all?"

Hearing the sigh Vala couldn't resist saying seriously. "Yes." then seeing Daniels slightly 'down' look as he obviously expected bad news, she smiled and with her bouncy manner added. "We have our meal and chat things over, because my belly is starting to rumble like NightOwl's and that is not a good thing."

Daniel laughed and feeling the tension in him break and better feelings surface again picked up his knife and fork to start to eat and added seriously. "I do need to see Sam and tell her what happened."

Before putting a forkful of salad in her mouth Vala sighed, then added. "I know, and that is why we chat and eat. You can not just waltz in as though the past is a closed chapter and all is right with the world. It is not. Her husband is a sleeping child and we do not know if he will come back to us the man she loves and married. And before you ask, Sam told me before she left for Atlantis and swore me to secrecy, which I can break as you know it." and stopped any further conversation by eating the food.

And Daniel followed suit, silently reckoning that with Vala now on his side, U Sang backing up his story Sam and Teal'c would be okay. And he would really try and get to know Jon, who being a clone still felt odd to him. But if he could talk and respect a talking purple cat, want to get to know all about dragons that changed into owls he could get over his hang ups and get on with Jon …

After a while conversation started between them concerning what to do next and how Daniel should face the others as well as their natural curiosity about their visitors. By the time they finished and decided they would leave their quarters and see the others, Daniel couldn't stop the whispering tiny itch in his mind ... that if he knew about Jack's family history he would feel more settled about Jon, and get back that feeling of being included in the group again. Not be the only one who didn't know. …

oxoxoxoxox

If you have got this far ... Thank you for reading this ramble … hope you enjoyed it.

As always comments are welcome and the next chapter will come, but I have no idea when due to characters and real life tucking into time that goes far too quickly.

If you wish to look at it

The Owl and the Pussycat Poem was written by Edward Lear published about 1871 and has been re worked many times since with pictures and variations.

But U Sang and NightOwl have nothing to do with it, not read or thought of it for a great many years. U Sang came first and out of nowhere and NightOwl flew in later and then Daniel's thought and question. … Goodness know what comes next.

Take care.