Summary: Whilst ascended, Daniel finds someone to talk to about what he left behind and why he needs to help his friends. After his descension, his friend returns to help resolve the situation with Anubis, giving Daniel a sense of completion.
Spoilers: Meridian, Abyss, The Changeling and Full Circle
Disclaimer: The characters mentioned in this story are the property of Showtime and Gekko Film Corp. The Stargate, SG-I, the Goa'uld and all other characters who have appeared in the series STARGATE SG-1 together with the names, titles and backstory are the sole copyright property of MGM-UA Worldwide Television, Gekko Film Corp, Glassner/Wright Double Secret Productions and Stargate SG-I Prod. Ltd. Partnership. This fanfic is not intended as an infringement upon those rights and solely meant for entertainment. All other characters, the story idea and the story itself are the sole property of the author.
*-*
Confusion clouded his mind. He heard familiar voices. He struggled to remember and felt a strange compulsion to help them. After the fight, they took him with them, never letting him out of their sight. As he lay in the bed, memories flashed before him. Gradually, he began to remember how he'd got here and who he was.
*-*
He remembered Jack's words. 'So what...see you around?' He'd had no choice. He couldn't be healed, the damage the radiation had done to his body was too severe. When Oma had offered him the chance to ascend, he's honestly thought he could do more that way. He'd seen it as a chance to make a difference. A chance to help make things better. So many times during his life, during his time with the SGC, he'd wished he could have done more. As he'd sat with Oma and thought about his life, he'd been dismayed at the things he'd failed to do, things he wished he'd done and things he should have done. He'd believed his life had been a failure, despite of what his friends had told him. He remembered their words, as he'd been lying on his deathbed. Oma's words had finally made the decision for him. 'The universe is so big and we are so small...there is only one thing we can truly control...whether we are good or evil.'
He didn't know how much time had passed. He missed them. He felt a great loss inside him. For much of his life, he'd never known the love and comfort of family and friends. His team - SG1. His family - a family he'd been forced to leave behind. But things were never what they seemed. Oma had taught him many things since his ascension. And whilst he'd believed whole heartily in her belief that it was their duty to help others ascend - he was having trouble with the non-interference rule. He watched over his friends as best he could. He had all these powers and yet he was forbidden from using them. He knew that he couldn't break the rule, but when Jack was in trouble and faced death, Daniel knew he had to bend them slightly. That was the turning point. He'd appeared to Jack, desperate to save him, offering him the chance to Ascend. He should have known that it wouldn't be that easy.
He knew deep down that Jack wouldn't go for it...but he had to try. He also knew that he had to make sure that Jack knew Daniel was ok. He knew Jack carried guilt, mainly due to the fact that Jack had been asked to carry out Daniel's last request. To stop Jacob from healing him - allowing him to ascend. Daniel knew that he had to be there, in Jack's time of need, just like it had always been in the past - a reassurance that his friend was not lost. He'd talked to him, comforted him and had eventually given in to Jack's pleas. He'd visited Sam, Jonas and Teal'c, planting an idea in each of their minds, which resulted in Jack's rescue.
He left the 'Great Path' and headed for the place where this had all started. Kemp. He allowed himself to take his corporal form and sat down in the middle of the temple - as he had done long ago. He had at least found someone to talk to. Her name was Cleo. She had ascended a long time ago - her planet had been destroyed by the Goa'uld and she had lost all of her friends and family. He spoke to her whenever he could. She kept him grounded and sane. He spoke to her of his feelings for his friends, his frustration at his journey and his inability to help them. Mostly she just listened, sometimes, she gave him advice. He held onto her friendship - it anchored him and kept him from forgetting everything he'd strived for in this life. He closed his eyes and remembered. He felt a breeze and when he opened his eyes, he saw a beautiful woman sat opposite him in the temple. She smiled at him.
"Hello Daniel...I thought I'd find you here."
"Cleo?" She nodded. "You look different than I imagined."
"You too..." She looked around the temple. "...so this is where it all started. Where your journey began?"
"Yes - Cleo? I crossed the line didn't I?"
"No Daniel. You didn't. You weren't ready for this. Your situation didn't allow you time to prepare for this. Your heart contains a love for your friends that can't be measured. There is no shame in that." Her eyes met his. He felt the reassurance and comfort she was projecting to him.
"I wanted this Cleo...I wanted to do more. I wanted to be able to make a difference. I didn't know it was going to be like this. I can't stand back and watch my friends suffer...I won't..."
"I know...and Oma knows too. You just need to be careful. You know that I understand...and I will draw their attention away when necessary. You make a difference Daniel...in everyone's life that you touch. You just don't realize it."
"Promise me something Cleo...promise me you'll always be there for me."
She smiled and as they both returned to their ascended forms, he felt her soul search his and returned her touch.
He'd known Teal'c was in trouble. He was powerless to stop it, controlled by that ultimate rule of theirs. He'd witnessed first hand what could happen if that rule was broken, but somehow it didn't make it any less frustrating. So he helped Teal'c in the only way he could. He took him where he needed to go, where he was comforted, where he felt safe. He helped him through the changes. And after he'd been rescued and treated, he'd visited him - just to tell him that he was watching over him, ensuring his journey would continue. He'd known that Cleo had drawn Oma's attention away from him, allowing him to help his friend. He was unsure of his feelings for his new friend. All emotions were heightened there. He felt compassion, friendship, passion and love. He felt reassurance, security and determination from her. He knew she stood by him and understood him. They shared many things...he knew her soul and she knew his. It was as if they were one at times.
When Abydos was being threatened, she knew she had to create a big diversion. After he'd assured Skaa'ra and the rest of the Abydonians they wouldn't be alone. He'd spoken to Jack and got SG1 involved. He'd told Jack he couldn't interfere but had pointed him in the right direction. He'd spoken to Cleo before returning to Abydos to watch over their efforts.
"Cleo...I'm not sure that I'll be able to distance myself from this. I feel responsible for the people on that planet. I can't allow Anubis to hurt any of them."
"I know Daniel...I will help you. No matter what - you must finish what you have started, at all costs. Do you understand me. We'll get through this - together. Call if you need me."
He'd returned to the planet, determined to watch from a distance. But as the attack began, his friends were no closer to finding the answers. Jack threatened to walk if he didn't help and had persuaded him to cross the line. The panic he'd initially felt at breaking the rule, quickly turned to an overwhelming feeling of belonging. Back among his friends, doing something that mattered - that made a difference. He was pleased when he found the tablet, describing the lost city of the Ancients. He'd thought all along that The Others were in fact The Ancients. He explained this to Jonas and Sam. He heard her call - loud and urgent. He searched out her essence and upon finding it, told his friends that he would be back, and to guard the tablet with their lives.
"Daniel...I can't distract them for much longer...whatever happens...follow through. You must finish this. Follow your heart."
"Why?"
"I can't explain right now...go...you know what needs to be done."
He'd rallied the System Lords against Anubis and then confronted him. Anubis revealed his true self to Daniel and Daniel was forced to make a choice - he made a deal, to save Abydos. He passed the knowledge onto Cleo and felt her angry response, which gave him strength. He also heard her warning. She couldn't stall them any longer. When he heard about Skaa'ra he felt Oma's presence and knew that he could not stand by and observe some rule that prevented them from dealing with a problem they had created. But Anubis knew Daniel was powerless. He taunted him, telling him his words meant nothing and daring him to take action. Daniel heard Cleo scream his name as he crossed the line, drawing on all his powers to destroy the Goa'uld and he felt her pain as Oma dragged him from the fight. He heard the message she sent as he felt himself falling.
'I will watch over you.'
*-*
He was kept in the infirmary for two weeks. Gradually, he remembered everything. He had to deal with the guilt of his actions and the consequences they had on the Abydonians. He also had to deal with the void that had been left inside him. He had to get used to the feeling of being alone again. He could no longer feel any of the others presence's. He couldn't hear their thoughts and he couldn't sense her.
*-*
"Morning people...please take a seat." Hammond sat down at the table and studied SG1 closely. A smile formed on his lips. Against incredible odds, these people stayed together. His best team. Colonel Jack O'Neill. Who always bounced back. The leader and Hammond's 21C. The man who vowed never to leave anyone behind. The man who would do anything for his teammates - including letting them go. Major Samantha Carter. Jack's 21C. The scientist who put in god knows how many hours a week. The one who would battle against certain defeat to ensure the safe return of her friends and team. Teal'c. The Jaffa who'd betrayed his beliefs, his fellow comrades and who had pledged loyalty to Earth and the SGC. And Dr Daniel Jackson. Back where he belonged. The civilian who had made all this possible. The man who had survived more death than most. His team was back and he couldn't be happier.
"Sir...Daniel and Jonas have finished the translation of the tablet. They're currently researching and cross-referencing all texts to try to find a location." Sam looked happier than she'd been in a long time. During Daniel's absence, Hammond had seen her struggle with her grief until she eventually shut down and hardened.
"General...as my memory improves, I am remembering more information. Teal'c is currently teaching me various mediation techniques, which may speed things up a bit." Daniel was more confident in himself. Initially he'd been confused and consumed by guilt over Abydos. But gradually, as he remembered more about his own ascension, he was beginning to reconcile himself with the fact that Anubis would have destroyed Abydos anyway...and at least the Abydonians were safe forever.
"Sir...I respectfully request that SG1 have a weeks stand down time...we need to spend some time together as a team sir." Jack was a different person. Hammond knew how close he was to Daniel and how difficult that past year had been for him. It didn't surprise him that Daniel had chosen to appear to Jack.
"Request approved...you are all hereby denied access to this base for the next week. Dr Jackson...welcome home."
*-*
The week passed quickly. The team gathered at Jack's house daily and just talked about their feelings and what had happened in the past year. No one let Daniel out of their sight. It was towards the end of the week, when Daniel was alone in his apartment, making a pot of coffee. He felt her essence. He turned slowly but saw nothing. But he felt her presence. Those familiar feelings of comfort and love, the feeling of not being alone. She was keeping her promise. He understood that she had allowed him time to adjust and be with his friends. He knew she was letting him know that he was not forgotten and that she would watch over them all. He smiled and felt reassured. When he went to bed that night, he felt a light breeze and a soft kiss on his lips. She missed him.
The SGC hadn't changed much, Daniel thought as they kitted up for their latest mission. The klaxons sounded, making them get dressed quickly and head down to the gateroom. Hovering above the Stargate was a bright, white light, instantly recognizable as one of The Ancients. Hammond stood in the middle of the room, and turned as SG1 came running in.
"Friend of yours Dr Jackson?"
Daniel concentrated hard, willing himself to remember how to sense them. Finally he nodded and smiled. The General ordered the SF's to drop their weapons. The light slowly lowered onto the ramp and began to take human form. SG1 watched the process quietly. Once the image had been formed, they watched it solidify until a woman was standing infront of them.
She smiled. "SG1 and General Hammond. I am Cleo. I am an Ancient. I am here to assist you in your fight against Anubis!"
*-*
"I don't understand." Hammond looked over at their guest, who was sat next to Dr Jackson.
"I thought you guys couldn't interfere...I mean, they cast Daniel out on his ear for cryin' out loud." Colonel O'Neill was in play-safe mode. Although he trusted his friend's judgement, he'd been on the end of that particular argument a few times in the last year.
"Daniel's actions have prompted questions among our kind. It is now widely known what Anubis is and how he came to have so much power. I am afraid that between us and The Asguard...we have allowed the Goa'uld to become too powerful and they are almost out of control. I am here to prevent Anubis finding the lost city and to descend him fully - so he can be destroyed."
"Oh ain't hindsight a wonderful thing!"
"Sir...you're not helping." Sam turned to look at Jack.
"Carter - they screwed up...big time! And now...because Anubis is a threat to them, they've decided to take action. Tell me something...what are you getting out of this?"
Cleo looked from Daniel to Jack. "I don't understand?"
"Aw c'mon. You can't tell me that you're doing this off your own backs."
"Colonel...I can assure you. The Ancients are aware of their past mistakes. The incident with Orlin's people made them re-assess their policies. When they descended Anubis, they did not know the Goa'uld was still halfway between. The mask he wears to keep his form intact also prevents us from sensing him. It is thanks to you that we are now aware of this fact and can do something about it. Daniel's actions have forced the Elders to assess each situation on a separate basis. Hopefully, the balance of power will soon be restored to the Four Races. After this is completed...the Asguard will make you an offer to become the Fifth Race."
"So what...you going to tail us until we find him."
"I cannot stay here. You must find Anubis on your own. He still has the ability to sense our kind. You must complete the journey that Daniel has started. The lost city will enable you to destroy the Goa'uld and ensure your planets protection. However, you must be aware that the weapons and technology that is stored there is beyond anything you have previously encountered. Should it fall into the wrong hands...the effect would be devastating...to the entire universe."
"And The Others are just going to sit back and allow this to happen? I mean, Orlin told us that they frowned upon technology being given to inferior races...our intentions may be good...but we've seen what can happen. People get power hungry and end up destroying each other." Sam was remembering Orlin with a hint of sadness. She looked up at Cleo. "Is he ok?"
Cleo smiled. "He is well. Your planet will be allowed to keep the technology, but it will be monitored. Should any attempt be made to use this technology for purposes other than protection...you will be stopped. A few of The Ancients will remain in this galaxy to monitor the situation...myself and Orlin included."
"Are you aware of Anubis' movements?" Teal'c was intrigued by this turn of events.
"I am. I can give you a very good indication of where he is next likely to look." A confused look passed over her face. "I must go...I will return." Her image disappeared into light and she was gone.
"Dr Jackson...can she be trusted?" Hammond had a bad feeling about this. "We know from past experience that this race is extremely reluctant to interfere with a planet's natural progression. The fact that they are now going back on this, after you've been returned to us, is unnerving to say the least."
"General...I felt her shock when she found out about Anubis. I couldn't sense him, so I believe that she is telling the truth. She helped me through my ascension. She diverted the attention of The Others each time I came back to help you guys. She understands the stakes. She would never place us in danger."
"That's good enough for me. Dr Jackson, work with Jonas and find the location of this city. Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter, put together some teams to do recon missions to all the locations they come up with. Teal'c...I need you to do me a small favor." With that Hammond dismissed everyone.
*-*
Jack was pacing his office. He didn't trust this woman and he definitely didn't trust The Ancients. Too much had happened in the past year.
"You don't trust her do you?" Daniel walked into his office and sat down. Jack grunted and walked behind his desk. Sitting down he stared at his friend. He knew that look well. It was the look Daniel used when he was willing Jack to trust him. He'd seen it many times before and he knew that he should trust it.
"No Daniel...I don't." Jack sighed. "We've seen what their 'policies' have done so far. They don't give a rat's arse about anyone but themselves. Daniel, we're trusting our future to people whose powers are so great, we have no defense against them."
Daniel watched his friend closely. He certainly understood that part. The powers he had obtained upon ascension had been overwhelming and he knew that if those powers were turned on Earth, nothing could stop them. "Well...we trusted The Asguard...maybe we should just proceed with caution."
Jack couldn't believe what he was hearing. He was sure that Daniel and Cleo had been involved on some level and had felt certain that his friend would go along with whatever was said.
"Jack...the people of Abydos suffered because of what I failed to do. I couldn't save Sha're, I couldn't save Sarah...and thousands more are going to suffer unless we do something. I feel responsible for so much of this...don't you see it. I worked out those damn symbols on the gate...I helped open this can of worms...I am responsible." Daniel's face showed his distress. Jack was at a loss for what to say. His friend was convinced that it was all his fault.
"Daniel...it was never your fault." Her voice was soft. Both Jack and Daniel turned and looked at her. She smiled gently as she leant against the wall in Jack's office. "When The Ancients moved on from this part of the galaxy, they were unconcerned with the fact they were leaving their technology behind. They were arrogant and felt that no race was evolved enough to decipher the codes and work the technology. It is because of their actions that the Goa'uld are what they are now and it is because of their arrogance that you are where you are now. Had they destroyed the Stargate system, none of this would be happening. The Goa'uld would still be safely contained in their part of the galaxy, unable to take human hosts and with no technology to allow them to advance. The Asguard would be allowed to continue their protection treaty against other races who would try to take advantage of lesser worlds. And Earth would not know what else lies out there. The Stargate would never have been found and you would never have had to suffer those loses."
"It hasn't all been bad. We wouldn't have met our allies had it not been for the gate." Jack countered.
"No...no you wouldn't. But then, you were never meant to advance this quickly. The Asguard have been keeping an eye on Earth for a long time. You were already approaching the stage where you would soon be aware of their existence. You would have learned of this eventually. You just weren't ready...and that is our fault." She sat down on a chair and looked at Jack. "I am here to ensure that Anubis is dealt with and that you are equipped to deal with any problems that should arise from the Stargate. I am here to ensure that we deal with our past mistakes."
Jack glanced from Cleo to Daniel. It was weird how his friends' presence seemed to change when he was around her. He became calmer and surer of himself. "I..."
"You still don't believe me do you." Jack shook his head. Cleo stood up and came to stand in front of him. She took his hand gently and pulled him up out of his seat. "I need you to believe this Jack. The success of this mission needs you to believe this."
"Jack...trust her...please." Jack looked over to Daniel and saw the pleading look in his eyes. "Allow her to show you she tells the truth."
Jack nodded and watched as Cleo turned into energy that surrounded him. He felt her inner most thoughts, her knowledge, he saw how she had helped Daniel and what they meant to each other, he saw her arguments with the Elders, he heard the reasoning and he knew that she would help them and fight for them until the end. As she solidified again infront of him, he realized exactly what she was giving up to help them. She shook her head in a warning and moved away.
"I knew you two were involved."
"It was another place and another time Jack." Cleo looked at Daniel sadly. "It could never be again."
"Cleo?" Daniel looked at her and noted the sadness in her eyes. "We need to talk." He took her hand and said goodbye to Jack, leading her through the halls, towards his base quarters. Once inside, he locked the door and came to stand infront of her.
"Daniel...what we shared together can never be...you must realize that."
He stared into her eyes and saw her sadness. He felt her sadness and that shocked him even more. "I can still feel your emotions...not as strong...but they are there. I know that things will be different...but I need to at least try. I remember every emotion between us, every touch, every shared moment. I can't shut that out."
"Daniel you have to. If we don't succeed, then it's all over, you know that. I can't help you do this unless you can detach yourself from what we once shared. This can't be resolved until after the battle is won!"
Daniel sighed. "So what now?"
"We wait for Anubis to make his next move."
Spoilers: Meridian, Abyss, The Changeling and Full Circle
Disclaimer: The characters mentioned in this story are the property of Showtime and Gekko Film Corp. The Stargate, SG-I, the Goa'uld and all other characters who have appeared in the series STARGATE SG-1 together with the names, titles and backstory are the sole copyright property of MGM-UA Worldwide Television, Gekko Film Corp, Glassner/Wright Double Secret Productions and Stargate SG-I Prod. Ltd. Partnership. This fanfic is not intended as an infringement upon those rights and solely meant for entertainment. All other characters, the story idea and the story itself are the sole property of the author.
*-*
Confusion clouded his mind. He heard familiar voices. He struggled to remember and felt a strange compulsion to help them. After the fight, they took him with them, never letting him out of their sight. As he lay in the bed, memories flashed before him. Gradually, he began to remember how he'd got here and who he was.
*-*
He remembered Jack's words. 'So what...see you around?' He'd had no choice. He couldn't be healed, the damage the radiation had done to his body was too severe. When Oma had offered him the chance to ascend, he's honestly thought he could do more that way. He'd seen it as a chance to make a difference. A chance to help make things better. So many times during his life, during his time with the SGC, he'd wished he could have done more. As he'd sat with Oma and thought about his life, he'd been dismayed at the things he'd failed to do, things he wished he'd done and things he should have done. He'd believed his life had been a failure, despite of what his friends had told him. He remembered their words, as he'd been lying on his deathbed. Oma's words had finally made the decision for him. 'The universe is so big and we are so small...there is only one thing we can truly control...whether we are good or evil.'
He didn't know how much time had passed. He missed them. He felt a great loss inside him. For much of his life, he'd never known the love and comfort of family and friends. His team - SG1. His family - a family he'd been forced to leave behind. But things were never what they seemed. Oma had taught him many things since his ascension. And whilst he'd believed whole heartily in her belief that it was their duty to help others ascend - he was having trouble with the non-interference rule. He watched over his friends as best he could. He had all these powers and yet he was forbidden from using them. He knew that he couldn't break the rule, but when Jack was in trouble and faced death, Daniel knew he had to bend them slightly. That was the turning point. He'd appeared to Jack, desperate to save him, offering him the chance to Ascend. He should have known that it wouldn't be that easy.
He knew deep down that Jack wouldn't go for it...but he had to try. He also knew that he had to make sure that Jack knew Daniel was ok. He knew Jack carried guilt, mainly due to the fact that Jack had been asked to carry out Daniel's last request. To stop Jacob from healing him - allowing him to ascend. Daniel knew that he had to be there, in Jack's time of need, just like it had always been in the past - a reassurance that his friend was not lost. He'd talked to him, comforted him and had eventually given in to Jack's pleas. He'd visited Sam, Jonas and Teal'c, planting an idea in each of their minds, which resulted in Jack's rescue.
He left the 'Great Path' and headed for the place where this had all started. Kemp. He allowed himself to take his corporal form and sat down in the middle of the temple - as he had done long ago. He had at least found someone to talk to. Her name was Cleo. She had ascended a long time ago - her planet had been destroyed by the Goa'uld and she had lost all of her friends and family. He spoke to her whenever he could. She kept him grounded and sane. He spoke to her of his feelings for his friends, his frustration at his journey and his inability to help them. Mostly she just listened, sometimes, she gave him advice. He held onto her friendship - it anchored him and kept him from forgetting everything he'd strived for in this life. He closed his eyes and remembered. He felt a breeze and when he opened his eyes, he saw a beautiful woman sat opposite him in the temple. She smiled at him.
"Hello Daniel...I thought I'd find you here."
"Cleo?" She nodded. "You look different than I imagined."
"You too..." She looked around the temple. "...so this is where it all started. Where your journey began?"
"Yes - Cleo? I crossed the line didn't I?"
"No Daniel. You didn't. You weren't ready for this. Your situation didn't allow you time to prepare for this. Your heart contains a love for your friends that can't be measured. There is no shame in that." Her eyes met his. He felt the reassurance and comfort she was projecting to him.
"I wanted this Cleo...I wanted to do more. I wanted to be able to make a difference. I didn't know it was going to be like this. I can't stand back and watch my friends suffer...I won't..."
"I know...and Oma knows too. You just need to be careful. You know that I understand...and I will draw their attention away when necessary. You make a difference Daniel...in everyone's life that you touch. You just don't realize it."
"Promise me something Cleo...promise me you'll always be there for me."
She smiled and as they both returned to their ascended forms, he felt her soul search his and returned her touch.
He'd known Teal'c was in trouble. He was powerless to stop it, controlled by that ultimate rule of theirs. He'd witnessed first hand what could happen if that rule was broken, but somehow it didn't make it any less frustrating. So he helped Teal'c in the only way he could. He took him where he needed to go, where he was comforted, where he felt safe. He helped him through the changes. And after he'd been rescued and treated, he'd visited him - just to tell him that he was watching over him, ensuring his journey would continue. He'd known that Cleo had drawn Oma's attention away from him, allowing him to help his friend. He was unsure of his feelings for his new friend. All emotions were heightened there. He felt compassion, friendship, passion and love. He felt reassurance, security and determination from her. He knew she stood by him and understood him. They shared many things...he knew her soul and she knew his. It was as if they were one at times.
When Abydos was being threatened, she knew she had to create a big diversion. After he'd assured Skaa'ra and the rest of the Abydonians they wouldn't be alone. He'd spoken to Jack and got SG1 involved. He'd told Jack he couldn't interfere but had pointed him in the right direction. He'd spoken to Cleo before returning to Abydos to watch over their efforts.
"Cleo...I'm not sure that I'll be able to distance myself from this. I feel responsible for the people on that planet. I can't allow Anubis to hurt any of them."
"I know Daniel...I will help you. No matter what - you must finish what you have started, at all costs. Do you understand me. We'll get through this - together. Call if you need me."
He'd returned to the planet, determined to watch from a distance. But as the attack began, his friends were no closer to finding the answers. Jack threatened to walk if he didn't help and had persuaded him to cross the line. The panic he'd initially felt at breaking the rule, quickly turned to an overwhelming feeling of belonging. Back among his friends, doing something that mattered - that made a difference. He was pleased when he found the tablet, describing the lost city of the Ancients. He'd thought all along that The Others were in fact The Ancients. He explained this to Jonas and Sam. He heard her call - loud and urgent. He searched out her essence and upon finding it, told his friends that he would be back, and to guard the tablet with their lives.
"Daniel...I can't distract them for much longer...whatever happens...follow through. You must finish this. Follow your heart."
"Why?"
"I can't explain right now...go...you know what needs to be done."
He'd rallied the System Lords against Anubis and then confronted him. Anubis revealed his true self to Daniel and Daniel was forced to make a choice - he made a deal, to save Abydos. He passed the knowledge onto Cleo and felt her angry response, which gave him strength. He also heard her warning. She couldn't stall them any longer. When he heard about Skaa'ra he felt Oma's presence and knew that he could not stand by and observe some rule that prevented them from dealing with a problem they had created. But Anubis knew Daniel was powerless. He taunted him, telling him his words meant nothing and daring him to take action. Daniel heard Cleo scream his name as he crossed the line, drawing on all his powers to destroy the Goa'uld and he felt her pain as Oma dragged him from the fight. He heard the message she sent as he felt himself falling.
'I will watch over you.'
*-*
He was kept in the infirmary for two weeks. Gradually, he remembered everything. He had to deal with the guilt of his actions and the consequences they had on the Abydonians. He also had to deal with the void that had been left inside him. He had to get used to the feeling of being alone again. He could no longer feel any of the others presence's. He couldn't hear their thoughts and he couldn't sense her.
*-*
"Morning people...please take a seat." Hammond sat down at the table and studied SG1 closely. A smile formed on his lips. Against incredible odds, these people stayed together. His best team. Colonel Jack O'Neill. Who always bounced back. The leader and Hammond's 21C. The man who vowed never to leave anyone behind. The man who would do anything for his teammates - including letting them go. Major Samantha Carter. Jack's 21C. The scientist who put in god knows how many hours a week. The one who would battle against certain defeat to ensure the safe return of her friends and team. Teal'c. The Jaffa who'd betrayed his beliefs, his fellow comrades and who had pledged loyalty to Earth and the SGC. And Dr Daniel Jackson. Back where he belonged. The civilian who had made all this possible. The man who had survived more death than most. His team was back and he couldn't be happier.
"Sir...Daniel and Jonas have finished the translation of the tablet. They're currently researching and cross-referencing all texts to try to find a location." Sam looked happier than she'd been in a long time. During Daniel's absence, Hammond had seen her struggle with her grief until she eventually shut down and hardened.
"General...as my memory improves, I am remembering more information. Teal'c is currently teaching me various mediation techniques, which may speed things up a bit." Daniel was more confident in himself. Initially he'd been confused and consumed by guilt over Abydos. But gradually, as he remembered more about his own ascension, he was beginning to reconcile himself with the fact that Anubis would have destroyed Abydos anyway...and at least the Abydonians were safe forever.
"Sir...I respectfully request that SG1 have a weeks stand down time...we need to spend some time together as a team sir." Jack was a different person. Hammond knew how close he was to Daniel and how difficult that past year had been for him. It didn't surprise him that Daniel had chosen to appear to Jack.
"Request approved...you are all hereby denied access to this base for the next week. Dr Jackson...welcome home."
*-*
The week passed quickly. The team gathered at Jack's house daily and just talked about their feelings and what had happened in the past year. No one let Daniel out of their sight. It was towards the end of the week, when Daniel was alone in his apartment, making a pot of coffee. He felt her essence. He turned slowly but saw nothing. But he felt her presence. Those familiar feelings of comfort and love, the feeling of not being alone. She was keeping her promise. He understood that she had allowed him time to adjust and be with his friends. He knew she was letting him know that he was not forgotten and that she would watch over them all. He smiled and felt reassured. When he went to bed that night, he felt a light breeze and a soft kiss on his lips. She missed him.
The SGC hadn't changed much, Daniel thought as they kitted up for their latest mission. The klaxons sounded, making them get dressed quickly and head down to the gateroom. Hovering above the Stargate was a bright, white light, instantly recognizable as one of The Ancients. Hammond stood in the middle of the room, and turned as SG1 came running in.
"Friend of yours Dr Jackson?"
Daniel concentrated hard, willing himself to remember how to sense them. Finally he nodded and smiled. The General ordered the SF's to drop their weapons. The light slowly lowered onto the ramp and began to take human form. SG1 watched the process quietly. Once the image had been formed, they watched it solidify until a woman was standing infront of them.
She smiled. "SG1 and General Hammond. I am Cleo. I am an Ancient. I am here to assist you in your fight against Anubis!"
*-*
"I don't understand." Hammond looked over at their guest, who was sat next to Dr Jackson.
"I thought you guys couldn't interfere...I mean, they cast Daniel out on his ear for cryin' out loud." Colonel O'Neill was in play-safe mode. Although he trusted his friend's judgement, he'd been on the end of that particular argument a few times in the last year.
"Daniel's actions have prompted questions among our kind. It is now widely known what Anubis is and how he came to have so much power. I am afraid that between us and The Asguard...we have allowed the Goa'uld to become too powerful and they are almost out of control. I am here to prevent Anubis finding the lost city and to descend him fully - so he can be destroyed."
"Oh ain't hindsight a wonderful thing!"
"Sir...you're not helping." Sam turned to look at Jack.
"Carter - they screwed up...big time! And now...because Anubis is a threat to them, they've decided to take action. Tell me something...what are you getting out of this?"
Cleo looked from Daniel to Jack. "I don't understand?"
"Aw c'mon. You can't tell me that you're doing this off your own backs."
"Colonel...I can assure you. The Ancients are aware of their past mistakes. The incident with Orlin's people made them re-assess their policies. When they descended Anubis, they did not know the Goa'uld was still halfway between. The mask he wears to keep his form intact also prevents us from sensing him. It is thanks to you that we are now aware of this fact and can do something about it. Daniel's actions have forced the Elders to assess each situation on a separate basis. Hopefully, the balance of power will soon be restored to the Four Races. After this is completed...the Asguard will make you an offer to become the Fifth Race."
"So what...you going to tail us until we find him."
"I cannot stay here. You must find Anubis on your own. He still has the ability to sense our kind. You must complete the journey that Daniel has started. The lost city will enable you to destroy the Goa'uld and ensure your planets protection. However, you must be aware that the weapons and technology that is stored there is beyond anything you have previously encountered. Should it fall into the wrong hands...the effect would be devastating...to the entire universe."
"And The Others are just going to sit back and allow this to happen? I mean, Orlin told us that they frowned upon technology being given to inferior races...our intentions may be good...but we've seen what can happen. People get power hungry and end up destroying each other." Sam was remembering Orlin with a hint of sadness. She looked up at Cleo. "Is he ok?"
Cleo smiled. "He is well. Your planet will be allowed to keep the technology, but it will be monitored. Should any attempt be made to use this technology for purposes other than protection...you will be stopped. A few of The Ancients will remain in this galaxy to monitor the situation...myself and Orlin included."
"Are you aware of Anubis' movements?" Teal'c was intrigued by this turn of events.
"I am. I can give you a very good indication of where he is next likely to look." A confused look passed over her face. "I must go...I will return." Her image disappeared into light and she was gone.
"Dr Jackson...can she be trusted?" Hammond had a bad feeling about this. "We know from past experience that this race is extremely reluctant to interfere with a planet's natural progression. The fact that they are now going back on this, after you've been returned to us, is unnerving to say the least."
"General...I felt her shock when she found out about Anubis. I couldn't sense him, so I believe that she is telling the truth. She helped me through my ascension. She diverted the attention of The Others each time I came back to help you guys. She understands the stakes. She would never place us in danger."
"That's good enough for me. Dr Jackson, work with Jonas and find the location of this city. Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter, put together some teams to do recon missions to all the locations they come up with. Teal'c...I need you to do me a small favor." With that Hammond dismissed everyone.
*-*
Jack was pacing his office. He didn't trust this woman and he definitely didn't trust The Ancients. Too much had happened in the past year.
"You don't trust her do you?" Daniel walked into his office and sat down. Jack grunted and walked behind his desk. Sitting down he stared at his friend. He knew that look well. It was the look Daniel used when he was willing Jack to trust him. He'd seen it many times before and he knew that he should trust it.
"No Daniel...I don't." Jack sighed. "We've seen what their 'policies' have done so far. They don't give a rat's arse about anyone but themselves. Daniel, we're trusting our future to people whose powers are so great, we have no defense against them."
Daniel watched his friend closely. He certainly understood that part. The powers he had obtained upon ascension had been overwhelming and he knew that if those powers were turned on Earth, nothing could stop them. "Well...we trusted The Asguard...maybe we should just proceed with caution."
Jack couldn't believe what he was hearing. He was sure that Daniel and Cleo had been involved on some level and had felt certain that his friend would go along with whatever was said.
"Jack...the people of Abydos suffered because of what I failed to do. I couldn't save Sha're, I couldn't save Sarah...and thousands more are going to suffer unless we do something. I feel responsible for so much of this...don't you see it. I worked out those damn symbols on the gate...I helped open this can of worms...I am responsible." Daniel's face showed his distress. Jack was at a loss for what to say. His friend was convinced that it was all his fault.
"Daniel...it was never your fault." Her voice was soft. Both Jack and Daniel turned and looked at her. She smiled gently as she leant against the wall in Jack's office. "When The Ancients moved on from this part of the galaxy, they were unconcerned with the fact they were leaving their technology behind. They were arrogant and felt that no race was evolved enough to decipher the codes and work the technology. It is because of their actions that the Goa'uld are what they are now and it is because of their arrogance that you are where you are now. Had they destroyed the Stargate system, none of this would be happening. The Goa'uld would still be safely contained in their part of the galaxy, unable to take human hosts and with no technology to allow them to advance. The Asguard would be allowed to continue their protection treaty against other races who would try to take advantage of lesser worlds. And Earth would not know what else lies out there. The Stargate would never have been found and you would never have had to suffer those loses."
"It hasn't all been bad. We wouldn't have met our allies had it not been for the gate." Jack countered.
"No...no you wouldn't. But then, you were never meant to advance this quickly. The Asguard have been keeping an eye on Earth for a long time. You were already approaching the stage where you would soon be aware of their existence. You would have learned of this eventually. You just weren't ready...and that is our fault." She sat down on a chair and looked at Jack. "I am here to ensure that Anubis is dealt with and that you are equipped to deal with any problems that should arise from the Stargate. I am here to ensure that we deal with our past mistakes."
Jack glanced from Cleo to Daniel. It was weird how his friends' presence seemed to change when he was around her. He became calmer and surer of himself. "I..."
"You still don't believe me do you." Jack shook his head. Cleo stood up and came to stand in front of him. She took his hand gently and pulled him up out of his seat. "I need you to believe this Jack. The success of this mission needs you to believe this."
"Jack...trust her...please." Jack looked over to Daniel and saw the pleading look in his eyes. "Allow her to show you she tells the truth."
Jack nodded and watched as Cleo turned into energy that surrounded him. He felt her inner most thoughts, her knowledge, he saw how she had helped Daniel and what they meant to each other, he saw her arguments with the Elders, he heard the reasoning and he knew that she would help them and fight for them until the end. As she solidified again infront of him, he realized exactly what she was giving up to help them. She shook her head in a warning and moved away.
"I knew you two were involved."
"It was another place and another time Jack." Cleo looked at Daniel sadly. "It could never be again."
"Cleo?" Daniel looked at her and noted the sadness in her eyes. "We need to talk." He took her hand and said goodbye to Jack, leading her through the halls, towards his base quarters. Once inside, he locked the door and came to stand infront of her.
"Daniel...what we shared together can never be...you must realize that."
He stared into her eyes and saw her sadness. He felt her sadness and that shocked him even more. "I can still feel your emotions...not as strong...but they are there. I know that things will be different...but I need to at least try. I remember every emotion between us, every touch, every shared moment. I can't shut that out."
"Daniel you have to. If we don't succeed, then it's all over, you know that. I can't help you do this unless you can detach yourself from what we once shared. This can't be resolved until after the battle is won!"
Daniel sighed. "So what now?"
"We wait for Anubis to make his next move."