Believe it or not … I'm back … thank you for reading this far and waiting for the next chapter.
Also huge thanks to my two Guests, LadyMo, dpdp, djenie and Schalze8210 for your reviews, chats and support. Love knowing what you think and your take on the story and characters. Hope you have a good 2020 and onto the ramble.
Chapter 19 – Part 2 Midway and Stargate Command
Colonel Lou Ferretti felt the familiar feeling of his body returning to its solid state as he stepped out of the Stargate's wormhole and onto the solid ramp on Midway Station, and automatically checked to see how his companions were coping. In doing so he instantly noted, though obviously shocked and probably not quite believing the whole experience, they were … remarkably for first timers through the Gate ... still upright and capable of putting one foot in front of the other.
Remembering they might be on visual back home and who could be watching, Lou immediately reported quietly via his radio mic. "All arrived safe and sound Walter."
Getting Walter's acknowledgement back, confirming they were on visual till the Gate shut off, Lou closed radio connection in the usual manner. Then quietly but in his best 'colonel' tone to get his companions' attention, he commanded, "Don't think. Just take deep breaths and follow me. The coldness and queasiness will go." while taking the lead by walking down the ramp, just as if he'd done this particular journey before so knew exactly what to expect.
He hadn't and didn't, and could still feel his body and mind making those final readjustments to being whole again and was taking longer than usual. … He'd read about Midway from reports, but never ever wanted to visit ... It was after all, nothing more than a 'tin can' on it's side with rooms and stabiliser arms attached with a working Stargate at each end, all stuck out in Deep Space. … No, he liked to come out onto solid ground with clean air and places to run to, should the need arise. ... And, tried to squash those thoughts, knowing the first thing he needed to do was to make sure General Landry's instructions had been carried out. But, couldn't stop the fleeting thoughts of what to call this place, officers had their own nicknames for their workplaces and 'tin can' wouldn't go down very well. Spaceship hanger was way too long and Midway too official. Add to that he didn't know the crew, who might be casual or very officious about such things, or how they were going to react to this sudden off the record visit.
Then totally ignoring the familiar sharp snap of the Stargate closing down behind him as his group stepped from the ramp onto the metal flooring of Midway, Lou was slowly realising this so called 'tin can' didn't sound tinny under foot or otherwise nor did it look fragile ... Nope, this place was huge, really solid and unique.
Gibbs and Fornell still recovering from the deep cold and mind numbing experience of Gate travel, were feeling more than a bit travel sick, but would never admit it to themselves let alone others, so making sure they were not going to throw up they followed the Colonel's orders to the letter. But, at the strange sharp snap noise behind them, they immediately stopped and spun round wondering 'what now!, and found themselves looking through the now silent and empty ring of Midway's Stargate. So could see the closed solid metal complex docking mechanisms for spaceships not using the Gate to link with Midway, and sealed the wall panel when not in use. Registering the size of the mechanisms both men were silently glad it was not a clear portal thereby reinforcing the fact they were out in Deep Space, because the enclosed structure around them helped to fool themselves they were on solid ground, or even still in the tunnels under the Mountain.
With those thoughts and the years of their unique respect and friendship between them, they silently automatically glanced at each other, and gave a slight shake of their heads at the whole unbelievable experience. They also took in the fact they were still themselves, and with a slight nod of satisfaction to each other, both automatically switched to their respective 'work and protect' modes and spun back round to follow the Colonel, who not only took all of this in his stride, but most important of all was their ticket home.
It was not surprising Tobias and Jethro were also wondering, how on Earth the construction of this futuristic tunnel structure had been kept secret or even got there. The whole thing was bigger than the Stargate they'd just walked out of, and there was another Stargate and a ramp facing them at the other end of the tunnel. They both concluded these were entrance and exit Gates with the area in between them used for unloading goods and people, rather than just catering for that energy plume they had witnessed before leaving SGC. They also noted the walkways along both sides, and the walls seemed to be made up of two tiers of cabin like structures, before linking to the supporting curve of the ceiling. The lower level of the cabins had closed doors tall enough for people to walk in, so could be living quarters and house internal stairways to the second level. Silently contemplating this they watched with growing interest the group of three officers who were striding towards them, having come from an open alcove half way along the right hand side, and both men came to the conclusion that was the command station, so the stairway to the higher floor was most likely to be from that area instead.
As the two groups got close enough to talk, the leader of the Midway group, who was an imposing, well built six-footer, greeted them in his calm, warm and bouncy Jamaican tones. "Gentlemen, I am Major Darrian Peters, late of Jamaica and in the Science and Engineering branch of Stargate Atlantis, also in charge of this shift. The rest of my crew are Captian Mike Smith maintenance and cook from SGC, and medical assistant Pamela Drayson from Atlantis, the members of the later shift are sleeping so I will not disturb them unless you wish it."
Darrian's curiosity had been piqued, he'd been in service with SGA long enough to expect the unexpected, knew there had been trouble on Earth hence the silent Gate till now. Knowing Stargate history but not met the man before, he respected the Colonel's SG2 reputation and trusted him, so was checking over the two grey/silver haired male visitors. One was taller than the other one and had a slightly longer than regulation hair cut, the other one was going bald on top with the rest in a very close cut as though hoping you'd miss the balding area. Possibly similar ages, both medium built but not running to fat, so might not be desk bound. With no insignia giving away their name or rank on their standard 'guest' SGC uniforms, he reckoned they were civilians, but by their attitude had been officers or leaders at some point.
Probably new to this programme by the way they were silently sizing up them and Midway, but reckoned if they were IOA officials General O'Neill would be doing the honours, and more warning would have been given. It also didn't look as though this was an emergency call, more like a casual look and see mission, slipped in now the Gate to Earth was working again. So he relaxed while adding formally. "Colonel Ferretti, as instructed by General Landry this run of the Gate and visit has not been put on record or will be recorded in any way, and we are under your orders for the duration. We are intrigued and glad the Earth gate is up and running again so things are safe back at base and home." Then with a jovial smile he finished. "But first as your team mates get their land or space legs. Welcome to The Colonel Carter and Doctor Mckay Midway Motel and Diner, on route No 2 from Earth to Atlantis and back again. Accommodation and food are first class and ready for your use."
Hearing Lou's gentle chuckle and seeing the questioning looks from the two gentlemen, Darrian explained. "Route No 1 is straight through non stop from Stargate Command Gate to Atlantis Gate but rarely taken due to lack of Gate power both ends. Here the two Gates cut out the need for turning space, and enables travellers to face forward all the time. It takes half an hour in Earth time to get here and uses 17 gates and the same again to get to Atlantis, hence the compulsory rest-over and check up by our current medical officer. Though it has been done straight through with no stop over and no ill effects, but that was in an emergency."
Realizing the implications and getting extremely fidgety Tobias butted in, his higher than normal tone registered his astonished indignation. "17 Gates! We were told it was one step through the Gate not Gates." as he glared at Lou and then at Gibbs who was standing beside him, as though it was their fault.
Knowing Tobias Jethro met his friend's threatening glare with a very slight smile, that hardly touched his face but was in his eyes for the man to see, and countered back immediately. "Not my fault Tobias. And. It was one step that took us in and one out, also we have not changed you've still got that injury." As his friend didn't break his glare at him, Gibbs couldn't resist finishing off seriously. "You can always walk back if it was too bumpy for you. Might take a bit longer though, and we didn't bring air suits, only our 'go' bags."
Relaxing Tobias shook his head in disgust at his friend's comeback, and started to fidget again, though this time because his injury was aching. Not willing to admit it he stayed silent and tried to concentrate on what was going on so he wouldn't miss anything vital.
Recognizing the banter between the two men for what it was, Lou explained to the others. "It's their first ride through any Gate, and we didn't have time to give them the full briefing or a shorter test run to Alpha site." Then couldn't help asking. "Does Mckay know Midway's nickname?" He knew the Doc's reputation of being a know it all, and probably did, and had been around when the man had been at SGC and had got under Sam's skin, which very few people had managed to do.
The Midway group glanced at each other silently vying as to who would answer, Darrian grinned as he took the lead. "Oh yes, but we don't use it when he is around and he respects Colonel Carter as a friend and leader. Still believes he has the best brain and that will never change, so Colonel Shepard makes sure they are not left in a room together for too long. Of course, we should also add General O'Neill's name as he is the one who made sure everything came together at the right time and place, but we only point that out if Mckay really gets too much."
"So it wasn't all from Earth." Gibbs checked in his usual quiet manner, having worked out all the clues.
Realizing that Lou was not going introduce the guests just yet, Darrian answered. "No. The parts from Earth were made in small batches so no one knew what they were making or for whom. Some came from Atlantis and Alpha site, with the escape and life pods coming from the stock the Asgard left us, we rustled up the Gates from whatever source we could. But without the General's connections, backing and knowledge it would not have happened, and McKay is not willing to admit that fact just yet. If you have time we will give you our tour." then turning to Lou, he added quietly. "Your orders sir."
Lou nodded and then turning to his companions knowing they would not mind him shortening their full titles, said. "Firstly this is NCIS Special Agent Jethro Gibbs and Special FBI Agent Tobias Fornell and we are waiting for the Atlantis Gate to open..."
With tension immediately hitting the air as Darrian's team registered the significance of the visiting group, the Jamaican Officer paled as he asked. "Who are you going to arrest as they come through?"
"No one." Lou answered quickly and firmly, then added hoping to quell their fears. "We are friends of General O'Neill and he should be coming through the Gate when he is ready to meet us. Then he will return to Atlantis and we will go back to Earth. We were informed Atlantis will tell us when the time is right so perhaps we could have that tour, and if Tobias is still worried about his injury Pamela could check it over." Lou finished looking at the agent, who immediately stopped fidgeting as he stood by Jethro and tried to give off the air of total innocence, which had served him well in the past.
With a nod of acceptance Darrien couldn't help commenting quietly. "How? the Gate from Earth has been out of action and we know General O'Neill is permanently stationed on Earth."
Lou smiled as he answered, "Call it an SG1 thing, and they used route No1." but then turned serious as he continued "Not a word must ever come out of this or what you may witness now. We will need you to control the Gate for us and to act on our commands without question. Also on no account are you to physically assist General O'Neill unless I order it."
"That big then, and Ancient with it, no doubt as we can not assist him." Mike Smith exclaimed, he might have been in the lower ranks at SGC but he'd witnessed some of the history and knew the under tones members used.
Lou huffed at the man's comment and perception, then turning to Darrian said. "You should also know the Gate from Earth has been up graded so has visual capabilities when calling in, and has full power. Also if you know anything about SG1's history, you will know about the alien family of the Nox, they are the reason we are here." wanting to move things on he checked. "Do we need to be in the command area to communicate with Atlantis City or when they communicate with us?"
Taking note of, but also ignoring Mike's very quiet comment of "Lya of the Nox, she walked through the Gate unannounced once." Darrian answered. "We can do it through radio mics. Thanks for that warning about being visual. Guess that will run both ways and on request, I'll check the screens for information later." and reassessing the situation added. "Perhaps you should stay at command station Mike." Then addressing Fornell added. "Pamela will check that injury as it is bothering you while I give the others a quick tour to the other Gate, it will not take long."
Though Tobias huffed about it, he didn't mind being left behind, he could quietly quiz these two, ... Well, Mike really, after that comment about Nox being able to walk through the Gate unannounced. What on Earth did that mean… and knew Jethro would pick up anything from the chief officer.
As they left the others behind Darrian explained about the mess room, sleeping quarters and their other 'off the record' guests, who had been quietly let through Earth's gate weeks earlier, and were now waiting to know if it was safe to return to Earth, or would need to go on to Atlantis and a new life there. Lou and Jethro explained there was no longer a threat to aliens working at SGC and they could return with them. But would have to be kept in the dark about what was happening regarding the General. They were just coming up to the far Gate when the lights on it started to light up as the inner ring started to spin, so they stopped at a safe distance and waited to see whether this was all or it was a full call in, …. till Mike back at the command station immediately called out… 'Vocal only Sirs.'
Seconds later the question rang out across Midway. "This is Colonel John Shepard calling Midway. Have our guests arrived?"
Feeling the mixture of excitement and apprehension, Lou flicked his radio mic on and answered firmly. "This is Colonel Louis Ferretti. We have arrived and are waiting. When is your guest going to arrive?"
"Not long. The Gate will open just before he arrives in our Gate room, and will travel through when ready. He may need some help your end." John Shepard informed them.
"We understand and are waiting. Ferritti Out." and feeling slightly deflated it wasn't going to happen yet, he looked at his companions and asked Darrian. "Which time do you work with?"
Darrian gave a soft chuckle then said. "Our own, and we call them shift one and two, then there are project times for any other team staying here. All very confusing especially if you try to relate it to Earth and Atlantis time scale as well. So we don't, and Dr Mckay has written a computer programme that translates the time for all three parties so we can be on time for meetings on Atlantis or on Earth.
At that Gibbs and Lou shook their heads not willing to open that particular Pandora's box, then starting to walk back to the command station Lou asked. "How well does the Jumper fit in docking bay between the Gates? Then quickened their pace to a run as Mike called out. "Sirs, we have visitors on our communication screens. Friends not Foes."
Luckily it was not far enough for the three to get out of breath, or take too much time to get back to the group around the computer screen in the open alcove. On the communication screen was the smiling face of a young Nox male, who then immediately announced. "Ladies and Masters of Earth, Atlantis City and Midway. Lady Lya of our Nox family requested we make sure no harm comes to your station, while Master Jack continues his journey through the ritual that will enable him to have a long and fruitful adult life."
Lou couldn't help smiling at the young Nox, who reminded him of an elf, but without long pointy ears or the hat usually shown in pictures. It was the brown and green clothes, the short tan coloured hair with a round face and an excited almost cheeky smile, that did it. The dark eyes and smile definitely said 'I know a lot more than you' … and remembering the Nox lived for thousands of years, it was probably the case. Seeing there was now more than one looking at them, Lou greeted back. "Ladies and Masters of the Nox, I am Colonel Lou Ferretti with Masters Jethro Gibbs and Tobias Fornell from Stargate Command and we welcome you and thank you and the Nox family. We have just heard that Master Jack will be coming through the Stargate from Atlantis fairly soon, but not sure exactly when."
With a slight nod of acceptance the Nox male looked away from the screen and at the young female Nox just behind him, then glancing back at them he said. "Masters who have travelled from Earth we are glad you have arrived safely and are ready. Lady Lya has informed us that Master Jack will have to ride an Owldragon to make his way to the Gate room. We have never seen one, but believe they are energy creatures of great patience and understanding, also they can travel outside our time without disturbing it.
If this is true we are unable to inform you of the time this will take, but would like to reassure those who are working and living on Midway, we have charted this area of the galaxy and can inform you that this station is safe from unguided planet masses, travelling towards it on collision paths for the next thousand of your Earth years. Earth is also safe but there maybe some that will appear to be as Master Jack would say 'near misses' and cause your Earth families some concern. These will pass by giving displays of bright lights in the local sea of space, or the sea of air that surrounds your beautiful planet, but should do no harm to those who live on the land or in seas of water on that land."
"Thank you for that information." Lou answered back, wondering how they'd managed to gather that kind of data, or who would believe him when he got back to Earth and passed it on.
His thoughts were interrupted by the polite. "Master Lou Ferretti, if we quickly drop our travelling gate into Midway without disturbing any of your forcefield of protection, can we give you our communication twigs. One for Master General Landry for Earth and one to stay on Midway. This would mean your families can communicate with our families should trouble arrive after we have left this part of the Galaxy, and we can return to give assistance. We will also pass on our information about your planet's future safety through the twigs so your leaders will understand it is true."
Glancing at the others and receiving their nods of agreement, Lou answered. "We agree and thank you for the gifts."
The words were hardly spoken before a ripple of air tinged with green and blue appeared on the walkway near their alcove and reached up to the ceiling. It became a definite thread that got wider and thicker till they saw a square shape float down it and land on the walkway. The instant the square shape landed, the green and blue thread disappeared leaving a brown box behind.
As Lou started to walk towards the brown box, the Male Nox said. "Master Lou Ferretti as leader of this group, open the box, inside are two communicating twigs, to do so bend the twig as though breaking it in half, but it will never break. It will light up and you speak your message, to disconnect the communication you release the twig to the original position. The twig will light up should we use it to communicate with your Earth or Midway families. Be reassured no matter where we are in this universe, one of our many families will answer.
For the information regarding the future of your planet, twist the largest end of the twig to either side then rest it on any computer linked with the Gate to the Stars, a visual report in the manner your families can understand will appear on the screen. Information from your computers can be fed into the twig in a similar manner and sent to us. The communication twigs do not need any special treatment and will last for many thousands of years regardless of use. Our family sister, Honourable Lady Lya, believes this is the best way of giving your Earth families this present, as she knows from Master Jack, some things are best kept on a need to know within the family unit."
While Lou tucked one twig in his pocket to pass on to General Landry and would hand the box and the other one over to Darrian for safe keeping, the Nox male turned his attention to the others giving a slight nod of respect and a smile as he addressed them. "Master Jethro Gibbs, it is an honour to meet with you on this special journey of knowledge and life. Master Tobias Fornell, we of the Nox family look forward to meeting your daughter, Lady Emily, as she becomes Earth's ambassador and travels the great seas of this galaxy and universe during her life time."
Before anyone could react to the comments, the Nox male nodded again and formally announced. "Ladies and Masters of Earth and Midway. We will not watch the rest of the ritual as it is a private matter, but will watch over Midway, keep it safe and give any assistance should you require it. This request can be made through your communication computer rather than the twigs you have just received. When we sense the Gates to the Stars have opened back to Atlantis, and Master Jack's journey is taking place we will communicate again." before immediately disappeared from view.
Totally agitated by the Nox's comments about his daughter, Fornell started to mutter and pace, giving glaring glances at Gibbs as he did so, and once or twice wincing as he forgot his injured shoulder and arm while waving his hands around. He then stopped realizing Gibbs wasn't there to glare at, and he'd come up against an object in front of him ... Was not an immovable object as it moved in front of him when he tried to walk around it … Realizing it was a body not a pillar he heard his friends' firm but gentle command. "Stop Tobias, and settle down."
Taking a step or two back from the man, and his mind shouting 'How dare he!' Tobias exclaimed sharply "It's all right for you!" His mind spinning with all kinds of pictures of the future without the firm knowledge that would anchor it in sensible pictures he could cope with, he rushed on. "You haven't got a daughter with a so called special gene, who's going to be whisked off to goodness knows where by alien people in weird clothes …"
With his own mind spinning about his past and family he'd lost, tying in with this new knowledge and what might have been for the future had his wife, Shannon, and daughter, Kelly, lived, Gibbs cut in gently but firmly. "No I haven't, and it looks as though you are going to have to accept the future. Just as I have. Tobias."
Tobias stopped his tirade mid breath, realizing in his own fear and anger he had twisted a knife in his friend's memory of the daughter and wife he'd lost. Two wives if he counted Diane … Emily's mother… the wife/ex-wife they sort of shared, and in their own way still mourned her loss. Looking at his friend, expecting anger in his face or the look that could bring the strongest of men to their knees, Tobias saw total understanding and support, and huffed out. "What the Hell do I put on my leave request… and how long for heaven's sake! A week ... a thousand light years?"
Seeing Gibbs give his own sigh and slight shake of his head, and hearing Lou's soft chuckle Tobias turned on the Colonel exclaiming. "You're all right … been doing this caper for years and bosses who understand.."
Interrupting him by putting his hand on to his friend's uninjured shoulder and guiding him away from the edge of the walkway, Gibbs suggested softly. "Join Homeworld through Homeland Security or be seconded to NCIS Navy Yard and join that way. Either way, General Landry or General O'Neill will sign the note and let you go with her. Or of course, as you were complaining about being stuck behind a desk and all that paper work you do now, leave and be your own boss. The Nox talk of families Tobias, so they are not going to separate you from her ... and we both know how strong minded Emily can be."
Feeling it all sink in and knowing he didn't actually know the half of what went on in the world or universe, Tobias stepped away from his friend, sighed, then looking back at him asked. "Come with us?" Seeing that small hesitation in his friend Tobias added. "You are family if not by blood by life at the very least. And you are right, she is strong minded and will love all this."
Seeing Jethro's silent nod of agreement, Tobias huffed the truth. "I keep hoping to wake up and find this is all a nightmare brought on by that mammoth session of watching Wormhole Extreme with her after I got injured first time round, and then when I got shot this time round." Taking a breath and pointing his finger at his friend he exclaimed vehemently. "And that is your fault. You gave her the box set when she asked for it. Bad enough watching her laughing when it was shown on tv first time round, can't count the number of times she … we've seen it since ... and she still rolls round laughing her socks off at it..." and stopped because he saw Lou's huge grin and heard Mike ask. "You tell him or shall I? Sir" that also had a tone of a laugh in it.
Hearing and seeing that, Tobias exclaimed heatedly "What?!" at them both, realizing he was missing something.
Jethro having twigged it smiled, then nodded to his friend, as he seriously and softly quoted from the write up on the series DVD cover. "They travel through the Gate to other planets."
"Oh Hell!" Tobias exclaimed as it all dropped into place, then turning to his friend he hissed. "You can explain it all to her."
"Think she worked that one out when she saw the Stargate for real." Gibbs replied straight faced but eyes twinkling with laughter.
"That big grin of hers." Tobias sighed, remembering his daughter's reaction.
"Oh yes. And that small controlled bounce and flick of her head and hair she uses to stop herself really bouncing off the walls when totally excited. So nothing is going to stop her now." Gibbs finished with a rare open smile, then turning to Lou who was still grinning, Jethro added gently. "Bet it's not one of Jack's favourite programmes."
Lou gave a chuckle, then turning serious added. "All SG1 hated it, didn't know it was being produced at first, how they found out is a story he can tell you as it is off the official records." but couldn't resist adding. "Those spacecraft in the sky scenes that got those special affect awards was totally real. SG1 ran their legs off on that mission to save the alien who started the series, and the film guys who were all humans and didn't know what was going on, just kept the cameras rolling as the spacecraft appeared and when the baddies flew away empty handed. As it is such a success the series continues hiding the truth in fiction." then turning his attention to Darrian who'd been silently watching it all, Lou said. "Before all this kicked off, we were talking about enough space in here for the Jumpers." Hearing Tobias's snort and seeing Gibbs's knowing smile, Lou turned back to Tobias and added. "As in Spaceships that are called Jumpers or puddle jumper because it goes through the Stargate that looks like a blue puddle.." and stopped because the Atlantis Gate was starting to light up and the sequence carried on this time, …. right through to the magnificent energy plume shooting out and being pulled back again to make the blue puddle of energy in the middle of the Gate, Lou had just been talking about.
And Mike calling out. "It is linked through for transportation. Sirs."
Lou was already running down the walkway and hearing too many feet following him commanded back over his shoulder. "Stay there watch and listen. But do not remember anything or mention it to anyone, that includes back chat to each other ever." Grabbing a breath he then added. "Tobias and Jethro we wait at the bottom of the ramp till he comes through."
They stopped as planned and waited, and as time passed Lou keyed in the radio back to Darrian saying quietly. "General O'Neill found a larger version of the Jumper Colonel Shepard uses, it was not complete so will need working on to finish the job, it is in a new hidden site on Earth that seems to be a maintenance depot. He reckons Atlantis might have one or two completed Jumpers in the unexplored towers. We found batteries so they now have power to explore the remaining Towers. We believe there is extra storage and living accommodation on the new Jumper and is likely to be longer rather than wider so it could use Stargates when needed. Do you think it could pass though Midway without being hit by either Gate? Providing they don't fire up at same time of course."
Though greatly excited and mind racing about the find as it was in his field of expertise since he joined Atlantis, Darrian admitted calmly. "Sounds an intriguing vehicle and one I wouldn't mind checking over. Doc Mckay put in a fail safe so only one Gate can open at a time, and extra length for a longer ship or a Jumper towing something." then added. "We can tell you what is happening at the moment."
"How?" Lou checked, having noted the man's comments and knowing the only thing they had in front of them in the alcove were the computers and screens.
With a hint of a chuckle in his voice, Darrian explained. "Well, that excited Nox male has been on the line to say there has been an energy spike in Atlantis City's Gate, and he's traced it through to the next gate and it is travelling on down the line. So General O'Neill is coming. Don't worry, we will forget all this once he's gone back and the Nox have shut off their link."
Quickly glancing back at the alcove and the group of three officers now standing on the walkway watching them, Lou returned his gaze back to the Gate not blaming them all. Could feel his own excitement rising as the Gate's puddle was now starting to do what Earth's Gate had done when Jack as the Ancient child had entered it on route to Atlantis. … But in reverse as the rainbow colours were faint, but were getting stronger with each passing minute …. When the colours were vibrant to almost blinding Lou reckoned Jack was very close, and believing his friend and fellow Officer would walk out at any second, couldn't stop his grin as the ripples of expectation running through him got even stronger.
But still nothing happened.
Then just as Lou was going to check his Earth watch to make sure the allotted travel time had well and truly passed, and he could contact Atlantis through the radio link to check in. The energy puddle rippled in the same way water does when a stone is thrown in it, from the other side rather than theirs ... and from its centre, out rolled a large purple and silver striped, slightly fizzing energy ball, which seemed to take all the colours of the rainbow with it, leaving the now calm plain blue smooth energy puddle of the Stargate in place.
Watching the large purple and silver striped, slightly fuzzing energy ball roll out then come to a stop, a safe distance from the Gate and from them, so they couldn't reach out and touch it, but it still had room to move or do whatever it needed to do. Quickly taking it all in, Lou realized it was not a standing up adult size energy ball … more like child sized, and possibly a fidgety child at that by the movements it was making, but was not actually rolling around … more like something inside was testing the top and sides to see if they would give, so it could get out but was not succeeding. Glancing at Jethro, who was beside him, to see what he was making of it, Lou saw the man silently glance back at him and was about to comment. But their attention was snapped back to the fizzing energy ball by the low hum that had started coming from it.
In less than a minute with the hum getting higher the fizzing energy ball rippled then split down the middle, a clean line top to bottom with the sides opening outwards and as soon as the two sides touched the floor they rippled and disappeared revealing a child, with with his knees bent and hands on the ground, as though steadying himself having just fallen hard on his backside, rather than one standing ready to calmly greet them in a dignified manner. Raising his head the child turned his disgruntled angry gaze up at the watchers with all the dignity he could muster, hoping to quell any comeback from his so called adult sized comrades/friends watching him.
Immediately recognizing the Ancient child was Jack, and through the surprise and expectation of seeing his friend again as an adult, Lou noted the child was now covered in multi coloured translucent shapes, with little golden balls kept bouncing away from him then returning as though on a very fine thread ... and realized they were actually on very fine threads. Also as the child was still looking at him, Lou also realized those shapes, threads and little golden balls, that didn't bounce away from him were on his skin and in his hair, and only those dark brown eyes of his friend were clear and true.
Trying hard to suppress his sudden attack of the giggles from surfacing completely and sort of failing, Lou flicked his mic on and announced. "This is Colonel Ferretti, ... the General has arrived, and will return in due course. … Out." And was glad the Gate closed down cutting off his now unstoppable giggles … brought on by relief, friendship and knowing what his friend was feeling being found on the floor in such a state.
"Captain! Ferretti!" Jack exclaimed cutting into his so called friends giggles with a General's glare and command that came out in his child voice, while also noting the other two's reactions of shocked puzzlement at what they were witnessing.
"Jack!" Lou immediately shot back not afraid of the implied threat of loss of rank, and making sure the other giggles did not surface, managed to add calmly. "Lya of the Nox thought we might be able help you back into the Gate for the final joining." then after taking a breath asked. "How was the trip?" before grinning to stop the wayward chuckle from surfacing, knowing it wasn't really fair on his friend all things considered. But knew he would hold this situation in his mind for future teases and wished he could have filmed the whole thing … and was brought back to here and now by Jack's answer.
"Bumpy. Worse than the ride in the Tokra's box thing." which was stopped by Jack's petulant huffy exclamation of "Oh forcryingoutloud!" as six golden energy balls bounced away from him again, and getting to the end of their threads this time, twanged back at speed. But didn't hit him, instead they just slowed enough to land short and bounce to a stop in a line in front of him, as though waiting to be dismissed by their officer in command. Through the buzz Jack would never be able to explain to anyone, he could feel the unique 'need' the balls had to answer, and knowing Gibbs and Fornell needed time to adjust to all of this, he looked at the gently bouncing balls in front of him and huffed out the order. "Oh. Go on then. go!"
Hearing what was obviously a command from the child, the others watched with amazed fascination as the six golden energy balls spun back out to full stretch till this time they broke away from their threads, which instantly disappeared into thin air rather than twanging back to the child. The golden energy balls then bounced up from the floor, and instead of spreading out in all directions they grouped together in mid air, and became a translucent, golden, energy butterfly, that seemed to get bigger with each beat of the beautiful wings and the higher it got. Then it flew the length of Midway in three sweeps making sure it ducked into the alcove and over the heads of the stunned and slightly bemused watching officers, and as it flew a very fine dust fell from its wings and body till it eventually disappeared into the framework of the station.
Watching the butterfly and guessing what was happening and knowing his friend's need to care for all those under his command, Lou turned back to the child saying quietly with some concern. "You will need that for growing up."
"Nope, miles too much energy. Gifts from the team, Atlantis and the Nox families." then Jack grouched. "Now, all I have to do is to stand up and return to that thing behind me … and be bounced around again like a toy in washing machine no doubt." Still sounding like a 5 year old child, but for those who knew him there was more than a hint of the adult General starting to show.
"Hope the Gate didn't hear that or you'll get wet this time round." Lou quipped back easily, before adding more seriously. "I take it, 'it' is working?" wanting his boss and friend back as an adult.
"No idea." Jack lied easily not wanting to go into details. Then understanding the other reason they were here, and feeling his other friend's pain at seeing a young child no matter how strange the situation, quipped easily, "Jethro, you two been arguing again? Missed his butt and got his shoulder or arm this time?"
Before Gibbs could say anything, and in spite of this strange situation, Tobias sighed and glaring at Gibbs, accused him heatedly but quietly. "You told the whole world so I wouldn't live it down, didn't you."
"Nope. TV news and your colleagues did that." Jethro answered back easily, before adding, "At least you lived to tell the tale." feeling the tension deep within him easing, realizing the General he'd been working with and considered a friend was there, most of all if the man could cope with this whole weird situation so could he. Turning his attention back to the child he talked to the adult he could sense rather than see, and with a slight smile at the irony that he'd confined the man to the Mountain in the first place explained. "I was stuck in SGC Mountain 'thanks' to your orders Jack, so I was miles away from what happened and totally not guilty. He on the other hand," giving Tobias a slight sideways nod as acknowledgement, and ignoring the man's silent protests, he carried on in same serious tone. "was off duty and going to the bank, just like anyone else does. Didn't get there in time to get trapped and be a hero, actually didn't know it was happening till the getaway car came into view and police and security guards were trading bullets with them. Never could learn how to duck properly or keep out of trouble."
Still ignoring Tobias's near silent huffs Gibbs gave shake of his head as he added with straight faced glee. "Out of uniform and unarmed he was considered to be a very pissed off middle aged 'innocent' injured bystander, so was placated as such and packed off to hospital." Feeling the adult Jack's total understanding while seeing the child smiling back at him, Jethro finished. "Emily rang me, I talked to Hank and it was decided they should be brought into the mountain for their protection and the rest I expect you know."
Smarting from that explanation Tobias forgot about the strangeness of talking to a child with strange patterns on his skin and energy balls around him, and snapped out at him. "Did you know Emily had the Ancient gene and the Nox want her to visit them?"
Needing to move Jack slowly stood up, and the energy balls bounced all around him before settling either on him or around his feet, and with a smile, a childlike chuckle and voice he admitted. "Yes to the first bit, and Sam told me the rest in our mind link." then carried on seriously. "Emily will be fine Tobias, the Nox are strong on family so you can go with her. She needs you, will always need you… so instead of attracting lead or close encounters with death all the time, you should retire and take up gardening."
With Tobias spluttering beside him Gibbs smiled, trying to imagine his friend doing such a thing especially as he lived in an apartment with no garden in sight, and noted Jack's dark brown eyes were showing that calm understanding with deep intelligence that was often hidden in the adult, so people missed it and just saw the official side of him he showed them. Then Jethro's smile turned into a gasp and everyone including Lou and the officers by the alcove took a step back, but no one looked away from the child.
Who, with a shimmering light rippling through him suddenly morphed into the full sized adult General O'Neill they knew and respected, and then in a heartbeat or two he returned to the young child as before. But now with a cloak of flickering energy gifts and the balls bouncing around him rather than calmly resting on him or on the floor at his feet as they had been.
Feeling that strange Ancient Gene connection with Jack, that Jethro now realized had given them a deeper understanding of each other when they first met, and his own natural father's concern for a child's welfare rising above everything else, he asked. "Should we send you back now?"
Without hesitation Jack shook his head, which in turn disturbed the energy cloak sending more bouncy balls out and back again, he could feel the tingling within him as they did so, and sighed then huffed. "Need a moment or two for everything to settle." Seeing Lou's widening smile and not wanting to explain certain things Jack took control of the situation, and in his General's tone but child's voice commanded rather than asked. "Lou. How are things at the Mountain?"
Understanding 'that' tone Lou stood more attention than before and reported, with a slight smile as he knew Jack would understand the shorthand being the General's idea in the first place. "Calming down, can't say back to normal as there will be a shift in groups, Griff and Dixon are going up in the world ... rank wise eventually, but for now upstairs to fly to safer planets as they will be training newcomers rather than going through the Gate on dangerous missions. Alpha site is fine and our 'friends' will be returning to base once the all clear is given from Atlantis, and you have returned home. We can take the ones you slipped into Midway back with us if you like."
Seeing the child's nod of agreement, and trying to ignore the energy ripples around the child Lou carried on. "General Landry is continuing to train up Colonel Coburn ready to become a Brigadier General and run SGC, his second in command is in place. Hank will be ready to go to Homeworld when you return as Paul has been keeping him up to date in that area as well as the IOA recommendations. The main one being Richard Woosley stays as their representative and at Atlantis with Colonel Shepard. Obviously General Landry has been in touch with the President who is beginning to accept you will not be returning to DC anytime soon, he still wants you back at some stage and has been informed about the new Waterfall site. But not the finer details of what has been going on of course, talks and security about that site are on going." then smiling broadly he added. "Gossip is you and Colonel Carter will run it and there is a long list of hopefuls for posting there from the Mountain and will probably be joined from some on Atlantis as their expertise will be needed."
Jack nodded glad the transition with Hank in command was going smoothly, then feeling himself morph into adulthood and the added seconds before going back to the child again, he knew his time was coming to an end. Not trusting himself to speak for the moment, but keeping men's attention by eye contact Jack held his hands out in front of him, opening them palm up wards he then looked down at them knowing the others would follow his gaze.
They did, and watched twelve small energy balls bounce gently in and as they touched the child's hands nudged each other to allow the others in while flickering with many colours. All the time Jack's mind was racing with knowledge and understanding, and knew how much of his special energy was needed without leaving him too depleted for the next stage in his journey and his future.
Taking a breath, letting his mind settle, Jack then said quietly, while looking at each one in turn to reinforce the message. "Tobias, Jethro and Lou ... hold out your hands."
They did it without question and watched the energy balls gather themselves into three separate groups as they gently bounced out of Jack's hands. Once in the air the groups nudged each other and made space, becoming three separate translucent butterflies with multi coloured bodies and very tiny golden balls outlining their silver threaded wings. They then flew to the others landing gently on their hands and stayed there slowly beating their wings, as if waiting for the final command.
In that moment of the butterflies landing on their hands a mind link was formed between them - so they heard and saw the adult General O'Neill, wearing the same BDU the child, standing behind the child without any gap between them, and felt perfectly calm about the whole weird experience.
And heard Jack's soft gentle chuckle before he greeted them. "Welcome to my world of speaking through your mind rather than reading them gentlemen. It will only take a minute or two as far as the others are concerned and you are watching the butterflies so they will not trouble us. My time is short so I will get to the point. These gifts in your hands are to be passed on so the future generations will be safe. Tobias, when you return to Earth give Emily an extra hug and her gifts will be passed on. She is strong like her mother but needs you now and on into the future so be there as a father and a friend and do not doubt your own strength."
Hearing the words, but keeping silent as his grief for Diane threatened to over whelm him again, Tobias suddenly felt her presence beside him in a way he'd never felt it before and heard her say gently. "Trust in what we had and your own future now; be strong and be there for her. Tell her not to be afraid when she sees me in her mind." and he felt his lost wife's gentle kiss of his cheek as she left him, and knew deep down she wouldn't be gone completely. That his grief and hidden anger was settling in a way it would not over whelm him as it had in the past. Then felt a warm healing strength ripple through his body, and the bullet wound and other physical aches and pains along with mental unsteadiness disappear completely.
Knowing what was happening Jack continued round the group. "Jethro, your NCIS family need you to be there for them and the gifts need to be passed on to them."
Already feeling the warming strength rippling through him repairing old wounds and feeling the odd oneness with Jack, Jethro recognized the Ancient Genes were gathering what was needed within him and commented. "Not going to hug my team Jack."
Jack chuckled and added. "No. Gather them at MTAC or in the Mountain and the butterfly will return and fly to them. It is time to bring Vance into the fold through his children as they are the ones who carry the Ancient Gene not him. Not as strong as ours or Emily's but it is there, and he will be able to cover for the times you need to disappear." Then he added with a mischievous smile. "You were wondering where you could keep the boat you are finishing in the Mountain basement. There is a lake at the cabin and I'm sure Abigail will accept the offer of a break from the high seas this time."
Jethro smiled knowing Tobias would be nagging him for answers at the end of this, and realized why Jack had always been reticent about Vance, and said softly. "Leon doesn't know about his children's Ancient Gene, did his wife?"
"No. She had no reason to know, and I only found out when I visited him in his office after her death and they were there with him. I felt the gentle tug from them and heard her voice in my head, and recognized it for what it was because of my connection with Charlie in the past, and the strength of the Ancient Gene. It was not the right time to tell him. Now he needs to know for their protection and your future work."
Then turning to Lou, who'd been watching all this knowing he'd already been given his gift, Jack said in a serious tone and expression"You need to hug General Landry and give him the strength he needs to watch out for us all, and then his daughter so she can help the ill and injured…
"No way am I going to hug those two. Jack!" Lou spluttered in horror.
Jack laughed, then relented saying. "The butterfly will know how to divide and where to go. As you are taking Nyan and his friends back, Hank and his daughter should be there in the Gate room." Knowing Lou had taken over his office in the Mountain Jack added."In my safe in your office there are the pendants that Jethro and his team will need to keep them safe. You will know the combination when you see the safe."
Turning back to Jethro knowing time was really short now Jack added. "You will know who to give them to and who to have on your team as they change over the months and years to come. Because of your Gene you can govern where you will reappear, but use it wisely and don't deliberately get into trouble ... you can still die. The others will turn up at SGC or the cabin panic room. Just remind them it is a small room and the cabin will be in use. Get Hank to contact the Phoenix Corp, they have the original plans for the cabin site and own the two houses at the beginning of the track to the cabin so the area can be secured without too much trouble. The town's people will not talk as they are used to keeping secrets."
Feeling the familiar rush of energy fighting his mind and body Jack stopped, then ordered. "Lou you need to send me back."
The mind link was instantly broken and they were back on Midway in proper time, the butterflies had vanished and there was only the child looking at them. But then the child morphed into the child and adult they had seen in their mind link before returning to be the single child again, making Lou spin round to face the open alcove. Seeing the group still there he called out "Major Peters open the Gate to Atlantis and I will inform them we are sending General O'Neill back through." then emphasized the earlier order. "Remember everyone nothing has happened here today, and we will take your special guests back home with us so get them ready to leave."
"Yes Sir!" Major Peters instantly confirmed, though like the others in the group he was still trying to get his head round what he'd seen, were seeing and entered the Gate dialling code. Instead of calling out the code as the lights locked he turned to Captain Smith and ordered. "Tell our guests to get ready to move out in the next quarter of an hour, this group will want to return to base as quickly as possible. But they are not allowed in here till the Gate to Atlantis has shut down."
Jack, like the others silently moved further away from the end of the ramp so they wouldn't feel the plume of energy that would come out and then go back in to form the wormhole. He could hear and feel energy and words buzzing through and around him as though they were looking for something substantial to hold on to, and knew he was becoming pure energy rather than body energy he needed to keep human. He could feel all the other Gates hum as they started to link in sequence all the way through to Atlantis.
Focusing on his internal separate energy of child and adult to keep them together in their own identities as they couldn't merge into one just yet, Jack heard the commanding call of his friend. "Atlantis City this is Colonel Louis Ferretti at Midway. General O'Neill is ready to return. Can you confirm it is clear to do so."
Then from the speaker via the Gate came the confident reply. "This Colonel John Shepard of Atlantis City. I confirm that we are ready and waiting for the General's return. Thank you for your help. Have a safe journey home."
Covering his radio mic as he looked across at his friend, who'd stepped onto the ramp and glanced back at him, Lou could imagine the twinge of unease … that flicker of thought as you stepped into the wormhole … the what if, and knowledge you had to go through with it no matter what. They had all suffered them, learned to live with it, and gave a nod of support to his friend. Saw the child smile back at him before turning to face the Gate ready to take those final steps towards the energy puddle and Lou announced into the mic. "General Jack O'Neill is stepping through now."
Getting closer to the Gate Jack could feel the fizzing of the two energies getting stronger and rippling through him, and knowing how he'd exited this Gate called out loudly to the Atlantis one. "I'm walking in this thing and walking out the other side. Understand!" He knew it would be different this time both energies and his adult DNA left in his previous travels should lock him together into one, but he also know it was not a certainty. This part had not been done before ... and felt himself morph into his adult and child selves, ... this time they were completely separate and side by side, both wearing BDUs and energy cloaks. With the protective purple and silver forcefields starting to form around them the adult and child glanced at each other then with a nod held hands and took that final step into the energy puddle together.
For those left behind on Midway it was an amazing unbelievable sight, and as their minds processed the whole thing the energy puddle which was now silver and purple rather than the usual blue rippled and then Gate shut down … way too early as far as the watchers were concerned. They also didn't know that this time the purple forcefield would protect the child and adult's gifts and energy, while the silver forcefield of the Atlantis Gate would allow the right DNA traces left behind in Gate travel would slip in and merge together and with the gifts to complete the ritual and their job, they had just seen it as a purple and silver energy ball, so had to trust everything was as it should be.
Major Darrian Peters had been watching the Gate and his computer link to Atlantis so immediately called out. "Sirs, transit is carrying on. It is not a fault, each Gate appears to be shutting down in sequence as it should. I also have a message that the Gate to Stargate Command will open for transit of personnel in ten minutes."
With a shake of his head to clear it, and silently guessing the answer Lou called back. "Who sent the message?"
"General O'Neill as he walked into the gate apparently." Darrian replied with a smile.
Smiling at the confirmation his friend still had that 'Ancient' capability, Lou turned to Tobias and Jethro adding quietly. "He never liked anyone hanging around unnecessarily." then raising his voice to command mode, so both groups would pay attention, he continued. "Gentlemen shall we walk. The others will join us at the other end and anything left behind will be returned to Earth later. I've no doubt they have kept any important things in their 'go bags' they brought with them in case they needed to move on at a moment's notice."
Recognising it was an order, Darrian passed it on and then stayed halfway between the alcove and the Colonel's group in case he was needed in either direction.
Tobias and Jethro still feeling their own energy buzz of full health and their minds accepting the unbelievable, were holding onto the belief it was all going to plan and they were getting their ride home. No more surprises, so turning away from the silent Atlantis gate to start their walk to the other one Jethro kept pace with Lou and knowing time was short and questioned quietly. "Seeing adult and child together was good, right?"
Lou nodded guessing it was, and feeling his own tension lessen added. "At least they weren't arguing as they went in, so they must be happy to be joining up again. It would have been nice to see what happens the other end. Know that the adult Jack has taken over again and actually walked out rather than rolled out as earlier." Then with a slight huff finished. "Guess we will just have to wait for them to check in at headquarters and tell us."
Tobias had dropped behind to discard his sling and carry it in his hand as he walked on. He hated the thing, didn't need it any more, felt on top of world and let his mind run through what had just happened. Found it strangely reassuring that Emily would have the comfort of her mother sometimes, couldn't help wondering if Jethro saw Shannon in his times of need or whether that would be too painful for him. And started putting 2 and 2 together regarding his friend's recent past, the bits the clam of a man wouldn't let on about.
Then quickening his pace to catch the two up he made it to his friend's side, and waving his arms around as he did when he got excited or wanted to make certain points, exclaimed with a smile and almost a chuckle. "So that's how you got your boats out that basement. Help from what these people call 'upstairs'. Beamed up at dead of night no doubt and they've been up there for goodness knows how long."
Using his steely look, that usually stopped people in their tracks at his friend, who was slightly shorter than he was, Jethro said curtly. "They wouldn't waste dollars doing that and I've not known about 'upstairs' as you put it for very long. They only moved this last one to the Mountain because General O'Neill ordered it." then with a shake of his head, knowing nothing was going to stop his friend pestering him about that point, added. "And you can stop waving your arms around and looking so cheerful. You've been shot and still need weeks to recover," and smiled as he finished. "not to mention therapy and shrink chatting too." His friend might be one of the top level agents in FBI and off duty at the time, but there were still forms to be filled in, not to mention the comments from workmates about being an innocent bystander when he returned from sick leave. The man certainly was not innocent and everyone thought he'd been transferred to a secret nursing home rather than a top secret base in a mountain.
Tobias huffed realizing he'd have to go back to his grumpy self and would be stuck on dreaded light duties, when all he would want to do was to get out there and do his job or be with his daughter. Not only that he'd have to lie to the shrink … not that was new, and probably the reason he hit rock bottom after Diane was killed. Worse he would have to stick his arm back in the sling, and hit back at Jethro exclaiming. "Your doctors and shrinks are going to ask questions. Especially Taff that surgeon who put you back together again, he's not going to be fobbed off and is going to wonder why you are walking without pain, and you are aren't you? See you can't hide it either."
Jethro silently admitted he was feeling great, not a ripple of pain in his body and energy he'd forgotten about, so returning to his usual banter tone and attitude he kept for the private times with his friend, he glanced at the man as they walked together and quipped back quickly. "That's easy, Taff can join the programme. I'm sure he's ready to face a new type of job at the Mountain or in the City now he's back from his sabbatical with his wife to find closure over the death of their son. Jimmy Palmer can be our doctor as he's fully qualified to treat dead and live patients, that will leave Ducky to decide what he wants to do in the future now he's got that extra energy and partner in his sights." Turning his tone to deadly serious he added. "Of course, you come under that umbrella if you join us, that will mean a new cover story for your mates at FBI and more paperwork." Seeing his friend's expression he added with smile. "Can't see retirement and tending to your very tiny balcony box is going to keep you out of mischief for long."
At that dig Tobias chuckled and quipped back. "No, Emily would be worried I'd go to seed too quickly."
As Lou and Jethro groaned loudly at that one, Tobias decided to tackle 'that' subject Jethro was trying to walk away from, and started with a disarming huff. "Going independent my own might be hard work at the moment, so I guessing I'll see who of the two gives me the better offer." then quickly sprung his trap with a slight tease in his tone. "You sly dog. Still in contact with Coast Guard Special Agent Abigail Borin, thought she was still literally and figuratively at sea between you and Agent Pride. Mind you she likes boats, water and can match your pithy nature any time of the day, so a good match."
Meeting his friend's sideways glance without flinching or missing a beat as he cheerfully niggled his friend again. "We know how your boat will leave the Mountain. That must have given your neighbours something to talk about or have they got used to the experience over the years, so ignore strange lights or the noises it makes when disappearing 'upstairs' from your basement?"
Jethro shook his head giving a slight smile, sort of pleased his friend might actually join them and was back on his natural track of picking up information ... sometimes too quickly … a grumpy Tobias burying his sadness in the bottle when it got too much was always a handful and in truth rarely seen … This one with new found energy and grief settling down properly would find his own way. Get his own practice when he got bored with either NCIS or Homeworld or having to keep silent about everything, not that he talked about his undercover work to outsiders. They both knew when to keep silent like a clam, quickly glancing over at Lou who'd remained silent through out, and seeing his slight nod back, Jethro knew it was time for him to open up on a certain subject ... and it wouldn't be his relationship with Abigail that was personal.
The other he still found unbelievable even though he'd been part of it and met the other friend concerned, and quietly admitted. "That boat in the basement at the Mountain is the only one they got out via the spaceship 'upstairs', and you will no doubt get that trip to see the Earth from space some time when we get back. We got the original boat out the old fashioned way, through the false side, which I'm not going to explain or show you when we get back. I've only known the other special way for a year or two but that's not an option now because Jack's friends are no longer around. But they did leave Jack a couple of spacecraft, one is hidden on Alpha site the other belongs to Doctor Jackson and on another planet."
Feeling certain things fall into place, absences and the recent round up of the bad guys over a wide area of the country and done in a short time Tobias nodded. He had helped in some of it not knowing the whole story obviously, and now looked forward to hearing the whole truth as his security clearance had to be top notch and there would be time to do so. His mind jumping to the Wormhole Extreme season he'd watched with Emily he exclaimed. "Naked little green men with large dark eyes and ten legs or arms. Or was it the men dressed in white that loved plants."
Chuckling Lou couldn't resist butting in. "Nope. Very advanced, hairless, silver grey small stature humanoids, with large heads and big black eyes and two arms and two legs. At first they didn't have a sense of humour, then they met Jack and one grew over the years. Thor and the Asgard have been around for too many thousands of years to count because they cloned themselves, sadly that was their downfall and we miss them and their technology."
Wide eyed at the implications of it all Tobias gasped. "Really?" and saw Jethro nod a silent confirmation.
Stopping in front of the Gate to Earth and hearing the guests coming to join them, but still out of ear shot, Lou finished quietly. "Now you are cleared and recovering from that gunshot wound, you will have time to read up about all SGC's past exploits. Just remember nothing has happened here as far as the group is concerned, you are here to look at Midway and bring them back to the Mountain."
Jethro and Tobias nodded their agreement and looking at the Gate towering over them Tobias sighed and then huffed out. "Emily will want to re watch every episode and point out what is true and what is not." and glancing at his friend added with true feeling. "Save me Jethro!"
"Nope, she is your daughter Tobias." Jethro shot back knowing full well he would be roped into either watching or listening to a verbal waterfall about what she'd now found out and what her new life would entail…. And wouldn't mind a bit, even if he would moan about it at the time.
At that moment all wondering thoughts stopped because instead of the Gate lighting up as expected, the familiar slightly excited voice came out of the speaker in the alcove. "Ladies and Masters of Midway, we would like to inform you that the energy spike Master Jack produced has entered the last Gate to Atlantis City safe and sound. And we ask for your attention."
In the short pause that followed the listeners smiled, realizing the Male Nox had had to pause for breath and control, as he continued in a much calmer tone. "The Nox family wish you all a safe journey home. To this end, we the Nox ask to lower our gateway of travel in front of your Gate so you and your gifts can travel safely back to Earth. We have cancelled the order that would open this Gate, also we would like to reassure you your future trips through the Gates that travel the seas of space to other planets, will be smoother than the number you have travelled to Midway."
Feeling that jolt of that reminder of how powerful and knowledgeable the Nox are, Lou couldn't help smiling at the fact the cat had been let out the bag, and Nyan and the others would be full of curiosity now they realized they'd missed something. Glancing back at the alcove so his voice would carry he answered clearly. "Ladies and Masters of the Nox thank you for your help and we accept your offer of travel. We have other guests who need to return with us."
And got the chirpy answer. "We welcome fellow travellers of the sea of space and will lower our Gateway. Master Louis as soon as the gateway appears you will be connected to Stargate Command through the usual communication channel of your Stargate, please inform them how you will be travelling. After that the receiving Gateway, on our sister ship that has been looking after Earth, will be lowered so you will be able to walk through in comfort. I would add we already sense the officers and daughters you wish to meet will be on hand."
At that revelation Tobias whispered to Jethro. "Certainly not going to argue with that lot if they know what is going on down there and we are up here. It has to be smoother than the ride here."
Smiling at that Jethro silently watched the green and brown square unfold just in front of the Stargate and hearing Lou's announcement couldn't help wondering what was really best … a solid looking Gateway with a blue energy puddle or something that can be rolled up and down. And hoping the Nox were not reading his mind concentrated on what was happening so he wouldn't be left behind.
Lou's confidence in the Nox showed in the firmness of his voice as he announced. "This is Colonel Louis Ferretti on Midway requesting entrance to Stargate Command via the Nox travelling gate instead of the Stargates. Their Sister ship in your area will lower their receiving gate on your approval."
And immediately heard Walter's calm reply. "We approve of that arrangement and thank the Nox families for their help. The area in front of our Gate is clear."
There was a short moment of silence, then Walter's voice returned again as calm as usual as he added. "We now have the Nox travelling Gate open and ready to accept you. We can see you and our friends on Midway and welcome you all back home."
Seeing the ripple of blue mix with the brown and green in the Nox's gate, Lou turned to Major Darrian Peters and his group who'd joined them, and said. "Thank you for help. SGC will be in contact when it is clear to use Midway again, and give you a brief update."
Darrian smiled and as he and his team handed Lou and his team their go-bags, they'd left in the alcove, he added. "Safe travelling and we agree it has been a very boring day."
With a chuckle and a nod of thanks Lou then looked at the group, who'd lined up behind them with their hurriedly packed bags beside them while beaming with anticipation, and said quietly. "This trip is off the record and has not happened. So there are no answers to any questions you might have or may run through your minds."
Seeing the bright smiles of curiosity turn into serious understanding nods from the group, Lou hitched his bag on his shoulder, had a final look at Midway reckoning he would not be coming back any time soon. Then noting Jethro was doing the same while Tobias was ramming his arm into his sling, toning down his expression to a more down beat one and hitching his bag on his shoulder and caught Jethro's shake of his head. Smiling and giving a slight nod back Lou turned his attention to the travelling gateway in front of them and ordered. "One step in gentlemen and guests and we will be home."
With that they followed him through the Nox's Gate and felt as though they literally stepped from one room to another as they walked out into Stargate Command Gate room. It was a very smooth journey.
Back on Midway as soon as the last of the group stepped into the Nox's Gate the chirpy male Nox announced "Lady and Masters of Midway, we wish you well during your stay here and on Atlantis city and bid you farewell."
Darrian said with a smile that carried through to his voice. "We thank you and hope all your journeys in the universe are safe ones."
As the Nox's gate disappeared all three turned away from the empty silent Stargate and walked back to the alcove to get on with the jobs that needed to be done, even if their minds were still buzzing with what had been happening. Settling in his seat with the others around him and trying to focus on his work Darrian exclaimed softly. "Don't know about you two, but I'm going to ask for a transfer to that waterfall site they will need my expertise." then with a soft warm chuckle added. "If that was a 'boring' day can't wait for an exciting one, from what I've heard about The General he's a magnet for adventure."
The other two laughed in full agreement before adding. "We will be with you on that one." They both knew their term on Midway was coming to an end so they shouldn't have any trouble getting a transfer to a new project.
oxoxo
On Earth as soon as the last one in the group had stepped out of the Nox's Gate and into Stargate Command's Gateroom there came the announcement from the female Nox on the sister ship. "Ladies and Masters of Earth we will take our leave of you and give you wishes of long life, fair winds and smooth waters, with a warm fire to come home to till your finally resting place in your Mother Earth."
Still trying to take it all in General Landry just managed to reply. "Thank you." before the Nox's travel gate disappeared and everyone knew they were alone again.
Looking at the group walking towards him with some amusement Hank shook his head, then turning to the two officers beside him ordered in a serious tone. "Take Nyan and his group to the infirmary for the usual check up and then the mess room." before switching his attention back to the group and with a warm smile and adding. "Welcome back, I am glad to say your homes and jobs here are safe. The officers will fill you in on what has been happening since you left us, and I ask you to keep whatever you saw or heard on Midway to yourselves."
Seeing understanding nods and smiles from the group Hank waited till they left the Gate room before silently eyeing the trio who'd stopped near the bottom of the ramp. Instead of ordering them to come closer Hank gave the quiet but firm command of "Wait a moment." to Emily Fornell who was standing next to Carolyn, Hank's daughter. Then glancing at his daughter asked so everyone could hear. "What do you think you would find if you gave this lot a medical?" She was the medical officer on the base after all.
Finding Emily's giggles slightly infectious Carolyn just about managed to contain hers in a half smile as she commented. "Kids on a sugar rush Sir. Or more likely a certain Ancient General has been up to his tricks again." before raising her voice and trying to sound serious added. "Mr Fornell I believe you were advised to keep your left arm in the sling and not use the arm to carry anything till your recent injury was completely healed."
They all smiled as Jethro glancing at his friend beside him commented straight faced and in a staged whisper. "You never did know your right from your left. Did you?"
Realizing his mistake Tobias slipped the bag off his so called injured shoulder with ease, and hissed back. "Could have told me before we came through."
"Nope. You always brag you are the master undercover agent of the FBI so why spoil it." Jethro ending with a smile while watching his friend discard the sling with a huff.
Not wanting the banter to turn into a full scale argument Lou immediately butted in. "Sir. Atlantis will get back to us when they are ready. General O'Neill asked me to pass on presents from himself and the Nox family to you and your daughter. Please hold your hands out in front of you." and dropping his go-bag by his feet opened his hands palm up and waited. …. and hoped … reckoning if nothing happened they would probably send in the men in white coats on the double.
But something did happen … small energy balls formed in his hands ... then bounced into two groups. As their gentle bounces got higher they nudged each other to form two little translucent butterflies with multi coloured bodies and very tiny golden balls outlining their silver threaded wings. When fully formed they flapped their wings and flew towards at Hank and his daughter, who watched in awe and trust as Lou continued quietly. "Sir, they will give you the strength you need to work in Homeworld Security for years to come, and Carolyn's will help her as she runs the infirmary here. Knowing Jack I suspect the butterflies will also leave energy dust here and in the infirmary which will help our people now and in the future."
As he finished, the butterflies still hovering in front of Hank and Carolyn divided again ... two stayed small and landed on their hands before vanishing into the couple, who then felt the energy surge gently ripple through them and steady down to a gentle feeling of well-being. The other two became bigger as they flew higher and around the Gateroom covering both levels till they both vanished ... one into the ceiling the other into the door to the rest of the Mountain.
Almost immediately the internal alarm phone from the infirmary rang, rather than the main alarm that would have sounded through out the Mountain, guessing what it was Hank called up to Walter, who was on the second level and about to answer it. "Tell them the butterfly is a gift from General O'Neill and to be immediately forgotten by everyone, and log the alarm call as a successful routine test call." Hearing the Officer's "Yes Sir." they all waited for confirmation or that there was a different emergency.
After a moment of quiet talking Walter put the receiver down then called out. "Sir! The butterfly arrived and is forgotten as ordered."
Hank smiled at that, and seeing Emily bouncing with impatience and curiosity took pity on her saying. "Go to him and be careful, we don't want that arm injured again." then paused for a second before adding. "Or perhaps we do to put the records straight, so we don't lie when we say he is still on sick leave."
Chuckling Emily ran to her father and into his warm happy hug, … all pretense about injuries totally forgotten he was so glad to see her waiting for him, and as they released each other Emily trying to smoother her grin asked. "Don't I get a butterfly?"
Keeping his hand on her arm, needing to know she was close, Tobias said softly. "He said to give you an extra hug." Seeing a start of a pout from her added quickly, "How about two old men accompany you when you visit the Nox."
Breaking away from her father, Emily turned to look at Jethro and saw his nod, trembling with excitement, knowing how difficult all this was for her father she went back into her father's arms for a gentler side by side loving hug and said softly. "Thank you. I know this is where I should be. Earth looks so beautiful from the spaceship ..." and stopped as she heard her mother's gentle laugh in her head and felt warm ripple through her body and something really deep inside she couldn't explain click into place. ...Wow!
Worried Tobias exclaimed softly. "Em?"
Stepping away from her father but keeping her hand on his arm, needing that kind of security it would give her, Emily said softly. "I hear Mom laughing and feel her beside me. She's telling me to trust everything I feel … is this the gift?" and stopped again as a small energy butterfly emerged from Tobias's arm where her hand was resting. It flew up and around the pair and then gently settled on her hand before disappearing into her. Looking at where it had been Emily carried on softly in awe. "Will she always be with me?"
Jethro answered gently. "She will be there for you in times of need. I see Shannon and Jack sees Charlie his son. Listening to her will give you the strength you need to get through the situation." Knowing the rest needed to be done in private Jethro turned to General Landry adding. "I need to get in touch with my team at The Yard and we need to bring Leon Vance into the programme because Kayla ad Jared also have the Ancient Gene through his wife."
"To hug them?" Landry asked with a smile.
"No. But I would like them here rather than do it through MTAC and as soon as possible." Jethro answered with a slight smile.
Hank sighed remembering the team's curiosity and said. "Right. Tony and family are still here but get the rest of them to meet at your house and we will beam them over. Unless you want to beam over and return with them." and added. "A security team will go with you, of course."
With a shake of his head Jethro accepted the fact he would have one of some kind where ever he went till Jack got back, and starting to walk towards the steps to Walter's level heard Hank reminding the group. "Medicals are needed, and we will meet up again afterwards for a full verbal debriefing of what went on at Midway and how General O'Neill is, assuming that is all you need to report now."
Knowing this needed to be done now Lou took the twig he'd been keeping safe in his pocket and said. "Sir, the Nox gave us this communication twig, fold it in half and we will be in contact with them verbally. To retrieve or feed in information via the computer you twist the end and place it on the keyboard of a computer that is linked to the Gate. There is a message for you regarding Midway and Earth."
Thinking he'd heard it all as the twig was so small, Hank checked Lou and the others out for any sign of a hoax ... and finding none he sighed and added. "Right. I'll get the tech lads to run through it while you lot go with Carolyn for that medical check up of verbal truth and lies on paper." then with a slight smile added. "While you are about it, any bright ideas about pulling the wool over the outside world eyes will be welcome. Jethro catch them up after your phone call." and watched them start to follow his daughter out of the Gateroom, till she hesitated, stopped then turning back to him said. "Sir, you should receive one as well considering the gift you have been given." and finished with a smile.
Hank sighed with a shake of his head, he knew that tone, she was pulling the Medical Officer rank on him, so he couldn't refuse her. Starting to catch up with them he said quietly. "You'll need one as well even if they are not written down as official ones." Hearing her chuckle of acceptance, he raised his voice and ordered. "Walter! you have the Gate till I return."
"Yes Sir!" came the confident reply and Walter smiled a greeting as Jethro reached his level and walked over to the communication terminal, and added to him. "Navy Yard or Mr McGee's special phone Sir?"
Jethro checked the time and realized Tim would be at work … it was a toss up and decided. "His desk and if he's not there his special phone." and waited pondering how Tim was going to order Leon Vance and family to his house for the pick up. Also he should include Taff and Tim's wife in this trip or should that wait till he'd cleared it with Hank first..
His thoughts stopped as he was handed the phone and heard Tim's greeting. "Boss I've got Mr Vance with me and the team are close by, but the rest of the pen is empty so we've put you speaker."
Jethro gave a soft chuckle at Tim's head's up and imagining the scene said. "On the prowl Leon."
"Kicked out of my office as Kayla and Jared are in for the day due to school and daycare troubles. What do we owe this pleasure Jethro, coming back to us?"
Jethro saw the opening and replied. "No Sir. I need the team, you and the kids to meet up at my house as soon as possible. Not sure for how long so bring go-bags for an over night stay."
Full of suspicion Leon came back immediately. "Who is giving the orders Jethro?"
"The General in charge of a department in Homeland Security Sir, and Tim is to ring General Hank Landry when he arrives at my house. He has the number on speed dial and knows what to do."
Watching the team and remembering the brick wall he'd come across regarding that department Leon answered. "That cagey lot and a brick wall as to where you are. By McGee's and Bishop's smiles they know what is coming and it is not a pile of paperwork." Seeing the man coming out from the lift he added. "Oh! your favourite surgeon is back again, apparently you've missed an appointment or meeting again, I think must be bored if he is chasing you for a third time."
Jethro chuckled and deciding what to do added. "Bring him along. Tim. Abby, Ducky, Jimmy of course, and your wife can tag along as well. You can explain the travelling arrangements after you've made the phone call at my house and not before." and disconnected the call before there could be any comeback from his team leader or Leon. He reckoned curiosity would drive Leon in the right direction.
Then turning to Walter who'd been standing quietly beside him checked. "I take it transport will be standing by and Tim's wife is in a wheelchair."
Walter nodded his understanding and added. "I'll arrange it, along with a watch on your house to make sure they arrive okay."
Thinking back to their own arrival Jethro asked. "How long have the Nox been watching over Earth?"
"Not long after you left. Sir. Said she would keep a watch over Earth till the time was right for them to leave us. I suspect that will be just after General O'Neill returns to us."
"You are positive he will."
"Oh yes Sir. He always does." Walter said with complete confidence, then added. "The officer over there will escort you to the infirmary and it is good to see you looking so well."
With a nod Jethro accepted the dismissal and followed the officer out the room, knowing Jack had been right - as long as Walter was around SGC was in good hands and wondered about the man's knowledge and unflappability as nothing seemed to phase him.
Oxoxo
That is it for the moment.
Thanks for reading and hope you enjoyed it.
Love to hear from you, but no pressure and will be back when life and muse allows.
