Unforgiving Misunderstandings
****DISCLAIMER: all characters belong to the rightful owners. My made up characters are my own creation. I don't claim to own the characters from Stargate SG1, Scarecrow and Mrs. King, Farscape and JAG, nor do I make a profit from this story. This was written purely for my own entertainment and the entertainment of others.****
Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado- July 12, 2003: 0900 hours
General George Hammond was returning to the base after visiting his granddaughters. "Morning General." Hammond just smiled and nodded slightly to the young officer who greeted him as he walked to his office.
As he entered his office he found Major Davis waiting for him. "General Hammond." Davis said as he stood and saluted.
"At ease Major." Hammond replied as he sat at his desk. "So what brings you out here?"
"General Hammond sir its about Dr. Snider," Major Davis started then hesitated almost as if he was thinking of how to say what was on his mind. "Sir, he's been murdered."
JAG Headquarters, Alexandria Virginia 0800 hours
Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie walked into the office smiling. "Morning Bud." She said as Lt. Bud Roberts approached her.
"Morning Ma'am. The admiral wants to see you in his office right away."
"Thank you Bud." Lt. Colonel Mackenzie said as she headed for the Admiral's office. She knocked on the door and entered when she heard him call from inside. She walked in to find Commander Harmon Rhabb Jr. sitting in front of Admiral A.J. Chegwidden. "You wanted to see me Sir?"
"Yes Lt. Colonel. Please have a seat." He motioned toward the seat beside the one in which Commander Rhabb was sitting. When Lt. Colonel Mackenzie was seated he continued, "I received a call from an old friend of mine, General George Hammond, a couple hours ago. He asked me to send my best officer to defend one of his officers."
"So why send both of us? I'm sure the General doesn't want you to send a prosecutor." Commander Rhabb inquired.
"No he doesn't Commander, but I'm sending the two of you to work together as a team. George is the Commanding officer of a research base in Colorado. The work done there is so top secret that I don't even have clearance for it. That's why I'm sending the two of you. I know I can count on you two to defend the officer and get to the bottom of all of this as quickly as possible. Especially seeing the President has expressed great concern about this."
"The President sir?" Lt. Colonel Mackenzie asked.
"Yes Lt. Colonel the President. It seems the officer murdered a very important scientist and with the fact that she's around a lot of highly classified material he's just a little concerned about this whole mess. George said he would brief you when you arrive."
"Sir if I may ask just who are we defending?" Commander Rhabb asked.
"He didn't say who she was. Only that he's positive she had no reason to kill Dr, Snider"
"Snider?"
"Yes Lt. Colonel. You know him?"
"Only by name sir." Lt. Colonel Mackenzie replied. "He's a leading scientist of Quantum Physics. A friend of mine attended a lector he and Major Samantha Carter were giving."
The admiral nodded. "Well you'll get a chance to speak with Major Carter. She's stationed at the base, but I don't know if she's the officer you'll be defending." The admiral stood and continued, "Your plane leaves in two hours. Major Davis will meet you at the airport and take you to the base from there. Dismissed."
"Yes sir." Harm and Mac replied in unison as they stood to leave.
"Good luck." Admiral Chegwidden called as they walked out the door.
Colonels Jack and Kath O'Neill's house, Colorado Springs 1100 hours
Jack O'Neill rolled over and smiled at his sleeping wife, Kath. He pulled her close and gently kissed her forehead and closed his eyes. Just as he started to drift back to sleep the phone rang. He groaned and reached over and picked up the receiver. "Hello."
"Jack. It's General Hammond. I'm sorry to interrupt your and Kath's vacation, but we've got a situation at the base. Is Kath awake?"
"No sir." Jack started but stopped when Kath sat up and looked at him. "Yes sir she just got up here she is." Jack handed Kath the phone and stood and started getting dressed.
"What's the problem General?" Kath asked knowing something was wrong.
"Kath Dr. Snider has been murdered, and from the evidence it looks like one of ours killed him." The General replied.
"Who?" Kath asked. She nearly dropped the phone when the General told her who was accused of murdering Dr. Snider. "Sir there's no way in."
"I know Kath." General Hammond said cutting her off. "That's why I've asked my friend Admiral AJ Chegwidden to send his best JAG lawyer to defend her. Major Davis and some other officers are heading over to get her. I'd like you to go with them and try to keep her calm and let her know that we're here for her."
"I understand sir. Jack and I are on our way." Kath said before hanging up the phone.
Captain Elena Stetson's house, Colorado Springs 1200 hours
Elena stood in the kitchen, still in her red satin nightgown, fixing bacon and eggs for Lee. It was late when Lee returned home from his latest mission the night before, and after saying "hello" properly to his wife, after being gone for almost two weeks, he fell fast asleep. Elena woke up at her usual early time and let Lee sleep, while she finished a report for General Hammond.
Lee tossed lightly in the other room as the smell of bacon and eggs started to wake him up. He slowly opened his eyes and looked to find Elena wasn't with him. He glanced at the clock and smiled knowing she had let him oversleep. He climbed out of bed and slipped on his robe and silently made his way to the kitchen, where he found Elena setting the table. He smiled and watched her for a moment before silently walking up behind he and wrapping his arms around her waist. "Morning beautiful," he whispered before kissing her neck.
Elena smiled and laid her head back against his shoulder. "Morning Love. Did you sleep well?"
"Mmmhmm very well. Thanks for letting me sleep late." He gently kissed up her neck to her ear, sending shivers down her spine, and whispered in a husky voice, "You wore me out."
Elena laughed and pulled out his grip just enough to turn around and face him. "Oh no you don't Stetson." Lee raised an eyebrow and smiled. "I told you to get some sleep. You were worn out when you got home last night." She wrapped her arms around his neck and her fingers played lightly with the hair on the back of his neck. "And I told you I've got all week off."
Lee smiled and wrapped his arms around her waist once more pulling her close. "I know but I missed you." He placed a gentle but tender kiss on her lips.
Elena pulled back breaking the kiss and gazed into his eyes smiling as she got lost in his hazel depths. "I missed you too." Lee leaned down and captured her lips with his once more and Elena wrapped her arms tighter around his neck deepening the kiss.
Forgetting about the dishes, the eggs, the bacon, and everything else but the woman he loved more than life and its self, who he was holding in his arms, Lee swept Elena off her feet and carried her to the bedroom. Just as he placed her gently on the bed and covered her lips with his, the doorbell rang. "Thought you were off?" Lee said as he pulled back and sat on the edge of the bed.
"I am." Elena replied as she stood and placed her robe on over her nightgown. "So who ever it is won't be here long." She said as she walked out to answer the door. Lee sighed and ran his fingers through his hair.
Elena slowly opened the door and sighed when she saw Jack and Kath in uniform. "Morning Colonels. It never fails does it? I'll get dressed and you can brief me on our mission on the way to the base."
She started to walk away but Kath stopped her. "Elena it's not a mission. It's Dr. Snider, he's been murdered." Kath nearly sighed with relief at the shocked look on Elena's face.
"What? Murdered? When?"
"Last night." Kath replied. Elena walked away, leaving the door open, and sat on the couch. Kath and Jack entered slowly and stood in front of her. "Elena we need you to come to the base with us and answer some questions."
"Questions? Why?"
"There's been a misunderstanding and apparently during the investigation some things have come up that seem to point to you." Elena started to speak but Kath cut her off. "I know that you didn't do it. Jack knows and so does the General, but we need you to answer a few questions so the officers investigating know you had nothing to do with Dr. Snider's death."
Elena nodded and stood. "I'll get dressed." She turned to go into her bedroom and saw Lee standing at the door. She just looked down unsure of what to tell him seeing she wasn't sure why she was a suspect in the Dr's murder herself, and walked by him with out a word.
Lee looked at his wife then at Kath and Jack. "Want to tell me what's going on?" He asked as he walked over to them.
"Lee it doesn't look good at the moment." Jack replied.
"There's a lot of evidence against her. I'm hoping she can just answer the questions and they'll drop it all. We know that she didn't murder Dr. Snider, but we have to prove that now. Just in case General Hammond has sent for the best JAG lawyers for her. They should be arriving later today." Kath said.
Major Davis walked in and avoided looking at Lee. "Ma'am we need to get back to the base."
"You can wait Major. You're accusing of her murder the least you can do is let her get dressed and eat her food." Kath said motioning to the food sitting on the kitchen table.
"Colonel I'm just doing my job." Davis replied.
"Well you can go to your job somewhere else. Jack and I will get her to the base after she has her lunch." Major Davis just stood there looking at Kath not sure of how to respond. "Go back to the base Major. That's an order."
"Yes ma'am." He turned and headed out the door.
Elena quickly changed into her uniform and returned to the living room where Jack, Kath, and Lee were waiting. She stood in front of the for a moment silent unsure of what to say. When no one else made a move she said, "Let's just go get this over with."
"Go ahead and eat your food Elena. I sent Davis and the others back to the base. If they're going to do this to you they're going to treat you with the respect you deserve as an officer. I'll make sure of that." Kath said getting a little upset about the whole thing.
"That's ok Kath. I've lost my appetite now. Let's just go to the base." Elena replied.
"Come on sweetheart you need to eat something." Lee said trying to convince her to have something before she left.
"Its ok Lee. You go on and eat. I'll be fine." Elena forced herself to smile in order to keep Lee from worrying. "I'm ready Kath."
Seeing there was no changing her mind Kath sighed and she and Jack stood and walked to the door and looked back. "We'll wait outside." The two stepped outside and closed the door.
Lee stood and placed his arms around Elena. "You want me to go with you?"
"No its ok sweetheart. I'll go and answer their questions and get this all straightened out." Elena replied trying to sound optimistic. She wasn't sure how bad things were but she had a feeling they were pretty bad if it got Jack and Kath out of their house when they were on vacation.
Lee just looked at her and nodded slightly. He hoped she was right and answering the questions would be enough to convince them she was innocent, but if it was as bad as Jack and Kath said it would take a lot more than a few answers to clear this up. "You sure?"
"Yeah." She said as she started to leave. Lee grabbed her arm and pulled her back in his arms and held her tight before kissing her gently. When they separated Elena looked in his eyes and saw the concern. She knew how serious things could be with Dr. Snider's murder, but she wasn't ready to give up hope that she wasn't the main suspect. She turned and walked outside joining Kath and Jack.
Kath watched as Elena walked slowly to the car and climbed in the back seat. She wished she knew what to say, but she couldn't think of anything. Seeing her concerned expression Jack placed his hand on Kath's shoulder. She simply nodded and they climbed in the car and headed toward the base.
Dulles Air Port, Washington DC 1000 hours
"So Harm any ideas on this case?" Lt. Colonel Mackenzie asked as they waited for the plane to take off.
"We don't even know any details yet Mac. So how can you ask if I have any ideas?" Commander Rhabb asked.
"I was just asking what you thought about it. I mean an officer working at a Top Secret research lab murders a top scientist. Apparently General Hammond believes she's innocent. He called the Admiral and asked for the best."
"Yeah. We'll just have to see what the evidence is against her." Harm replied and she just nodded and looked out the window. "There's something else about this that you're not telling me isn't there?"
"Harm I'm just worried a friend of mine is stationed out in Colorado. I'm not sure if she's at this base or another one though."
"And you're worried the officer we're defending might be your friend."
"Yes."
"Mac if it is your friend I'll do what ever I can. But let's just wait until we reach the base to find out who it is were defending." Harm said taking her hand in his to reassure her. She smiled slightly and nodded.
"Ladies and Gentlemen we will now be leaving Dulles airport. Please fasten your seat belts and make sure all luggage is secure.." The flight attendant said as the plane started down the runway.
Colorado Springs Airport 1400 hours
Major Davis and two other officers waited in the lobby of the airport for the plane to land. Getting impatient Davis stood and started to pace. "Sir the plane isn't due for another 5 minutes." Lt. Michaels pointed out to him.
"I know that Lt., but I've got a lot on my mind. I don't want to believe she did, but there's nothing so far to say that she didn't." Davis said as he sat back down.
When the plane landed Harm and Mac prepared to exit the plane. "Well let's go and get started with this case." Harm said as he waited for Mac to go ahead of him.
She nodded slightly at his manners and proceeded to exit the plane. As they walked into the lobby Major Davis stood and approached them. "Lt. Colonel Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb. I'm Major Davis. If you'll follow me we'll head to the base and your luggage will be sent to your hotel."
Mac nodded and replied "Thank you Major." They walked to the airport parking lot and climbed into the limo that would take them to the base.
Major Davis sat in silence for a long time. Then he finally spoke up. "For the record I'd like you to know that no one at the base believes the Captain murdered Dr. Snider. She's a loyal and dedicated officer."
Mac almost sighed with relief at hearing the officer's rank. "Major can you tell us a little more about this case? All we were told was an officer from the Cheyenne mountain base is accused of murdering Dr. snider and that General Hammond called Admiral Chegwidden and requested the best lawyer."
"Well ma'am I don't have all the details myself. All base personnel have been ordered not to interfere in the investigation, myself included, due to the fact Captain Stetson is close to almost everyone at the base. The evidence I do know about is strong. Her field knife was the murder weapon and she was home alone on the night of the murder, and the officer I talked to said there's a lot more evidence that points to her."
"A field knife is a field knife Major. How can they be sure that it's the Captain's knife?" Commander Rhabb asked.
"Well sir in most cases you'd be right but the Captain has a knife different from the others. It was a gift to her from a friend when she was promoted to Captain. Her name is engraved on the side on the handle."
"I see." Harm looked at Mac and sighed, "This doesn't look like it's going to be an easy case."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 1430 hours - Guest quarters
Elena paced around the small room nervously. "What's taking so long?" She said to herself seeing there was no one else in the room. Two officers with guns guarded the door. Although she wasn't in the brig she was still a prisoner. Frustrated she ran her fingers through her hair.
As she started to sit down the door opened and General Hammond, Major Samantha Carter, Kath and Jack walked in. "How are you doing Elena?" The general asked.
"I'm being accused of murder, a murder that I did not commit, I'm being held at the base where I work, by the people I work for and with and risk my life for on an almost daily basis. How do you think I feel?" Elena said raising her voice slightly. "Sir." She added after a moment realizing she was speaking to the General.
"I understand Captain, but until we get to the bottom of this I'm afraid you'll have to stay here." Hammond replied.
"Sir, you don't think I murdered Dr. Snider. Do you?" Elena asked as she looked at each of them for some reassurance.
"Elena I."
"Elena none of us believe that. We know you had no reason to kill Snider, and even if you did we know you would never do that." Kath said cutting the General off.
"But there's a lot of evidence against you. Your field knife was used to kill Dr. Snider and Major Davis was told there's a lot more evidence that points to you that he wasn't given details on." Sam said.
"So in other words unless we find who really killed Snider and framed me I'll be punished for it."
"No that's not what I'm saying. Elena I."
"Elena what Sam means is it will not be an easy thing to prove you didn't murder him, but we will do it. The JAG officers that will be defending you are the best. They'll get to the bottom of this." Kath said.
"JAG officers?"
"Yes Captain. Seeing how close you are with almost everyone on base, we've been ordered not to interfere with the investigation. But I called in a favor or two and asked Admiral Chegwidden at the JAG office to send the best officers to defend you."
Elena nodded. "Thank you sir."
"They should be here soon. Major Davis just left a little while ago to meet them at the airport." Sam said.
"General what about Lee? Can he."
"Lee has already been called. He's bringing you some things and should be here soon. I'll send him in here as soon as you finish talking with your defense lawyers." Hammond replied knowing that Lee was the one person that Elena might find a little comfort in during this mess.
"Thank you sir."
"If you need anything just let the guard know and I'll take care of it." Hammond said before he turned and walked out.
Sam walked over to Elena and placed her hand on her shoulder. "If you need to talk or if there's anything I can do just let me know."
Elena nodded. "I will Sam." Sam nodded and walked out leaving just Kath and Jack.
Kath turned to Jack and whispered something and Jack nodded and walked out waiting by the door. Kath walked over to the bed and sat beside Elena. "We'll get to the bottom of this. I promise you." Kath said placing her hand on Elena's.
Elena nodded. "I know Kath I just hate having to stay in here. I should be out there clearing my own name, not relying on lawyers to do it for me."
"I know how you feel. All of us wish we could help, but we've got our orders."
"Does the whole base know?"
"Most yes. There may be a few who don't know yet. But I can tell you any one that knows you knows you didn't do this. When General Hammond called me this morning and asked me to accompany Major Davis to your house I knew there was a huge mistake." Kath sighed and then realized something. "Wait a minute. Lee was home last night wasn't he?"
"Yes but it was after midnight. His plane was delayed. He was supposed to be home around 9. I left the base early so I could go to the store and have a wonderful dinner waiting for him when he got home."
Kath nodded. "And none of the neighbors saw you at home?"
"My neighbors are elderly folks who get up at noon and go to bed at 8. If they did see me it was too early in the evening to prove I didn't leave the house."
Kath nodded. "You just hold on Captain. Things will work themselves out. Like the others said if you need anything."
"I know Kath. Thanks."
Kath stood and nodded. "Jack and I will check in on you a little later." She walked slowly out the door to where Jack was waiting. Elena couldn't make it out but she heard Kath mumbling something in a very angry tone.
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 1430 hours - General Hammond's Office
General Hammond returned to his office to find a tall brunette officer waiting for him. She stood and saluted him. "General Hammond Sir. I'm Lt. Colonel Amy Wilmington. I'll be running the investigation of Dr. Snider's murder. I understand you have the officer who murdered him in custody."
"We have Captain Stetson in a guarded room. It's your job to find who murdered Dr. Snider." General Hammond replied in a slightly annoyed tone as he sat behind his desk.
"Yes well Sir I've gathered the evidence. She's the one that murdered him all right. There's no doubt about it. What room is she in? I wish to speak with her."
Before Hammond could reply Harm and Mac came to the door. "I'm afraid you'll have to wait to see our client." Hammond and Wilmington looked at the door. "Sorry to interrupt sir. I'm Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie and this is Commander Harmon Rhabb. Admiral Chegwidden sent us to defend the Captain."
Hammond stood with a slight smile on his face. "Come in Lt. Colonel, Commander. This is Lt. Colonel Wilmington. She has just informed me that she will be running the investigation."
"I assume you're also the prosecutor if this should go to court?" Rhabb questioned.
"Yes I am. And believe me this will go to court. Now if you'll excuse me I have work to do. Once you've finished talking with your client please send for me. I'll be questioning some of the other officers." She walked and closed the door as she left, with out a nod or salute to the General showing just how stuck up she was.
"Please have a seat," Hammond said motioning to the chairs in front of his desk. "As you may have noticed things are a little hectic around here. Everyone's a little upset about our orders to stay out of the investigation."
"We understand sir." Harm replied as he sat down.
"Sir other than what little Major Davis told us we know nothing about this case." Mac said wanting to get to the point.
"I know Lt. Colonel." Hammond said as he handed her and Harm a folder. "That's all the information I have on this."
Mac opened the folder and looked at the reports and photos of the crime scene. "No sign of forced entry. Victim was stabbed in the back with a field knife. The blade entered his back and punched his left lung and then was twisted and entered the heart killing him."
"Sounds like the killer knew exactly what they were doing." Harm stated.
"Yes and according to the reports he was murdered around 9 pm." Mac closed the folder and looked at the General. "I'd like to speak with the Captain."
"Of course." Hammond said as he stood and walked to the door and called the officer that was standing outside. "Airman, take the Lt. Colonel and the Commander to the guest room where Captain Stetson is."
"Yes Sir." The Airman saluted and waited for Harm and Mac.
"Thank you sir." Mac said as she walked by nodding slightly.
Hammond nodded and returned to his desk. Harm and Mac followed the Airman to the room where Elena was laying on the bed counting the tiles on the ceiling. When they entered Elena jumped and stood at attention. "At ease Captain." Mac said as she placed the folder on the table and sat in a nearby chair. "I'm Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie and this is my partner Commander Harmon Rhabb. We've been sent from the JAG office to handle your case."
Elena nodded and sat back down on the bed. She looked at Mac and said, "Thank you for coming ma'am." She turned to Harm and added "You too sir. From what I understand I'm in a lot of trouble."
"I'm afraid so Captain. There's a lot of evidence against you. Can you tell me how you knew Dr. Snider?"
"Well ma'am Dr. Snider was assigned to a research project that I was working on with Major Samantha Carter, Dr. Daniel Jackson and Major Elizabeth Jackson. He and Major Carter had given lectors together on Quantum Physics and she introduce me to him when we started the project."
"And what was this project?" Harm asked.
"Sorry Sir. It's classified as is all the work done here on the base." Elena replied with out hesitating.
"Its ok Captain. I don't think we need the details of the project." Mac said looking at Harm. He nodded knowing she was right. "Did you ever see the Doctor off base?"
"No ma'am. Well there were a few times when Major Carter, Dr. Snider, and I left the base together for lunch, but it was always business. We discussed the project the entire time."
"Thought it was classified?" Harm asked
"It is sir. We always went to my house, Major Carter's place, or Major and Dr. Jackson's apartment. If we went any where else it was just to pick up the food, and then we returned to base."
Harm nodded and sat down beside Mac. "So you never socialize with any of the other officers?"
"Oh no sir. I'm friends with lots of the officers. From time to time we have dinner with each other and socialize off base. I see the members of my team and Colonel O'Neill's team almost daily on and off base. Our two teams are like on big happy family. Actually almost all of the two teams are related somehow."
"I see. So that explains the no interference order." Mac said looking at Harm. "Captain..."
"Ma'am please call me Elena. Seeing that I'm suspended until this is settled I'd rather not be referred to by my rank."
"Ok Elena. Now can you tell us what happened when you last saw Dr. Snider until the time you were brought to the base this morning?"
"Well after we finished working for the day we were packing our gear up. Sam asked if I'd like to join her for dinner."
"Sam?" Harm interrupted.
"Yes. Major Carter. She's known as Sam to most of us."
"I see." Harm said. "Please continue."
"Well I told her I couldn't because I had to get home and fix a special meal for Lee." Elena saw a hint of confusion in Harm's face and before he could speak she said, "Lee's my husband sir." Harm nodded in understanding and she continued, "Dr. Snider asked me to say hello to Lee and then I left the base. That was the last time I saw him."
"What did you do after leaving the base Elena?" Mac asked
"I went home and looked in the frig. Seeing there wasn't much I went to the store and bought some things then returned home and started cooking."
"What time did you arrive home from the store?" Harm inquired.
"Around 7:30 Sir. I saw my neighbor Patty in her garden when I cam home. She can verify the time."
"Can she also verify you were home the rest of the night?" Mac asked hoping this might be the break they needed.
"No ma'am. Patty and my other neighbors are elderly folks. They go to bed at 8 and get up at noon the next day. So I doubt they saw me after that. You can ask them if you wish though."
"And you didn't leave the house after returning from the store?" Harm asked
"No sir. I started cooking steaks and potatoes."
"Steak and potatoes? So you were expecting your husband home soon?" Harm asked
"Yes sir. I expected him home at 9, but his plane was delayed it and was almost midnight when he got home."
"So what happened while you waited?" Mac asked
"Well I didn't know the plane was delayed so I changed out of my uniform showered and waited for Lee. By 9 the table was set and the food was ready. I sat on the couch waiting for a long time. I finally fell asleep and I woke up when Lee came in and carried me from the couch to the bedroom."
"So you were home alone waiting for your husband. He got home late and there's no one who can testify you didn't leave the house. This is definitely not going to be an easy case."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 2100 hours - Guest Quarters
After talking for several hours with Elena, Harm and Mac sent for Lt. Col. Amy Wilmington. Lt. Col. Wilmington walked in with a smirk on her face. "Well, well it's about time I met the murderer."
Elena jumped up. "I didn't murder Dr. Snider!" she yelled. Mac placed a hand on Elena's shoulder and told her to sit back down.
"That's what they all say." Wilmington replied as she placed her brief case on the table."
"And I say innocent until proven guilty." Mac said in a stern voice.
"Ah yes that old saying. Well I suppose that's what happens when you trust your clients."
Mac started to protest but harm stopped her. "Look we're here to do a job," Harm said. "Now why don't you do yours?"
"Gladly." Wilmington replied as she sat down in front of Elena. "Now Captain, tell me why you murdered Dr. Snider."
Mac stood. "Out client is innocent until proven guilty. So unless you have evidence to prove with out a doubt that she murdered snider change you line of questioning." Mac paused and looked at her watch then Elena. "On second thought just leave. It's late and Elena needs her rest." Mac gathered her things and stood. "We'll continue this in the morning." She and Harm walked to the door and waited for Wilmington.
"Very well then." She said as she stood and walked to the door. Harm and Mac walked out the door and down the Hall to General Hammond's office, but Wilmington stopped at the door and waited until the were both out of site. The she turn to the Airman whom was guarding the door. "Airman, no one is allowed to enter this room other than myself, Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb and General Hammond. Is that understood?"
"Yes ma'am." The airman replied.
"Good." She said as she walked away.
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 2115 hours - General Hammond's Office
General Hammond was sitting in his office talking with Lee when Harm and Mac arrived at his door. As they entered he and Lee looked at them. "Ah Lt. Col., Commander. Finished talking with Captain Stetson?"
"Yes sir. We plan to do more investigating in the morning. We just wanted to let you know before we left the base." Mac said.
"Thank you Lt. Col." General Hammond turned to Lee and said, "Lee this is Lt. Col. Mackenzie and Commander Harmon Rhabb. They're Elena's lawyers. Lt. Col., Commander this is Lee Stetson, Captain Stetson's husband."
"Ah its nice to meet you Lee. Been hearing good things about you." Harm said as he held out his hand to shake Lee's.
Lee nodded and shook Harm's hand. "Just wish it was under better circumstances commander." Lee looked at General Hammond. "Sir is it ok if I see her now?"
"Go ahead Lee. Stay as long as you like." Hammond replied.
"Thank you sir!" Lee said with a smile. "It was nice meeting you two. Thanks for helping Elena." Lee said as he turned to Mac and Harm.
"Just doing our job Mr. Stetson. Now go see that wife of yours. She's been waiting for you all day." Mac said with a smile.
Lee nodded and left and hurried to Elena's room. When he got there he found the airman standing in front of the door. "I'm sorry sir I can't let you in."
"My wife is in there. Move aside." Lee said trying to be nice.
"I'm sorry sir but I have orders not to let anyone in." the Airman said.
"I just came from General Hammond's office he told me I could see her. So I know he didn't give that order."
"No Sir he didn't, but an order's an order and I have to follow it sir. Now please I'll have to ask you to leave."
"Look one way or another I'm getting in there." Lee stated as he started to lose his temper.
"No I'm afraid not sir." The Airman said as he raised his gun to point it at Lee.
"Look Buster move or I'll." Lee started but was cut off by another officer that was passing by.
"Whoa Lee. Take it easy. What's wrong?" Kath asked.
"This officer claims he has orders not to let anyone in there, but I just came from General Hammond and he said I could stay as long as I like." Lee said as he ran his fingers through his hair.
"That's correct ma'am. Lt. Col. Wilmington."
"Lt. Col.?" Kath questioned interrupting the Airman.
"Yes ma'am. She told me no one was to see the Captain other than herself, Lt. Col. Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, and General Hammond."
"Well here's new orders for you Airman. Since I out rank Wilmington I'm now ordering you to ignore any order she tries to give you or any one that is guarding the Captain. Captain Stetson is allowed to have any visitor that wishes to see her, other than Lt. Colonel Wilmington. She can only enter if myself, Lt. Col. Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, or General Hammond accompanies her inside. Is that understood?" Kath said in a firm commanding voice.
"Yes ma'am!" The airman replied as he saluted.
"Thanks Kath." Lee said with a smile.
"Don't mention it Lee. She needs you right now more than ever and I'm not going to let some stuck up lawyer keep you or any of us from seeing her." Kath replied placing a hand on his shoulder. "Now go on in." The airman moved aside and opened the door for Lee and he walked in and the door was closed behind him. "Oh and Airman you make sure that all officers that guard this door know my orders and if Lt. Col. Wilmington has a problem with it tell her she can take it up with me." The Airman nodded and Kath walked down the hall.
Lee entered the room slowly hoping to surprise Elena, although after all the yelling outside he knew that would be almost impossible. To his surprise he found her on the small cot that served as a bed. He walked slowly over to her and smiled seeing she was sound asleep. He gently lifted her and he climbed on the bed and held her in his arms. Elena slowly woke up and opened her eyes and smiled up at Lee. "Hmmm and who says dreams don't come true?"
Lee smiled and kissed her gently. "Dreaming of me?" He said teasingly.
"Of course. What other strong handsome man do I know that gives a wonderful massage?"
"Oh I see how it is now. You married me for my massages." Lee said as he started to tickle her.
Elena laughed and grabbed his hands to stop his tickling. "That and much, much more Lee." Elena replied as she gazed into his hazel eyes getting lost in their depths. Lee gazed into her sweet brown eyes and then down at her tender lips. He smiled slightly when she darted her tongue out to moisten her lips. He looked back up at her eyes and never broke eye contact as he slowly lowered his lips to capture hers in a passionate, but tender kiss.
Elena wrapped her arms around his neck and deepened the kiss. When their lips finally parted Lee tightened his grip around her waist and pulled her closer. He placed his mouth beside her ear and in a low husky voice whispered, "I love you Mrs. Stetson."
Elena smiled and shivers ran up her spine as Lee started gently kissing her neck. "I love you too." She whispered as she played with the hair on the back of his neck.
When Elena started to rub his shoulders and gently nibble on his ear Lee pulled back and she looked at him with a curious expression. "You keep that up and I'll forget about your massage." Elena smiled knowing what he meant. She nodded and tried to hide a yawn. "Tired?"
"Yeah. It's been a long day and I didn't get a lot of sleep last night." Elena replied with a teasing grin.
Lee shook his head and laughed lightly. "Oh no you're not blaming me for that. You could have slept in with me. You got up bright and early on your own."
"Then I guess it's a good thing I let you sleep in. Other wise you might fall asleep in the middle of my massage."
Lee smiled the infamous Stetson grin "And we wouldn't want that now would we" he replied as he lowered his lips to hers once more. The kiss was slow and tender, but full of passion. When Lee pulled back he smiled and kissed her forehead gently and held her in his arms. "But before we get to that massage we need to talk."
"I had a feeling this was coming."
"Elena this is serious."
"I know Lee, but right now it's the last thing I want to think about" Elena replied as she placed her head on Lee's shoulder. "I've been talking with Lt. Col. Mackenzie and Commander Rhabb for hours. Not to mention I have to put up with Lt. Col. Wilmington."
"Yeah I'd like to give her a piece of my mind" Lee said remembering it was Wilmington that gave the order for Elena to have no visitors.
"Why what happened Lee?"
"She gave the guard at the door orders not to let any one in here to see you other than the General, your lawyers and herself. If it hadn't been for Kath I'm not sure what would have happened."
"God she's so.." Frustrated she groaned.
"I take it she wasn't too polite to you."
"Polite? Lee she called me a murderer! She asked me why I killed Dr. Snider. As far as she's concerned I'm guilty."
"What did Lt. Col Mackenzie and Commander Rhabb say?"
"They weren't too happy with her either. Lt. Col Mackenzie said we'd start tomorrow with more questions and that I needed my rest. I really don't want to see Wilmington in the morning."
"Well I'll do my best to make sure they let me stay with you while she's here. I don't care if she's a Lt. Col, a General or the President, she has no right to talk to you like that." Lee said and then he gently kissed her forehead and continued, "And I'm not going to let any one talk to my wife, the woman I love more than life its self, like she's a criminal."
Elena smiled as a single tear made its way down her cheek. "Oh Lee what would I do with out you?"
Lee gently wiped the tear from her cheek and kissed her gently. "I'll never leave you Elena, and no matter what happens I'll always be here for you." He said as he held her tight and caressed her cheek. Elena smiled and gently kissed his cheek and laid her head back on his shoulder and closed her eyes, happy just to be in his arms.
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado- July 13, 2003: 0900 hours - General Hammond's Office
General Hammond sat in his office reading over some papers when there was a knock on the door. "Come in." He called as he looked up.
Colonels Jack and Kath O'Neill stepped in and stood in front of his desk. "Morning Sir." They said together.
"Morning Colonels. Have a seat. What can I do for you two?"
"Its about Lt. Wilmington." Kath replied.
"What about her?"
"Sir she been doing everything she can to make this hard on Elena. Last night as I was leaving the base I saw Lee ready to hit the Airman guarding Elena's door. Apparently she gave him orders to let no one in to see Elena other than herself, Lt. Col. Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, and you."
"I assume you corrected that order." The General said.
"Yes sir." Kath smirk slightly "I made sure he understood Elena was allowed to have visitors."
"What else has she done?"
"Well I heard that she also told the officers taking Elena food that she was to have no dessert and nothing that could be considered real food." Jack replied.
"But you know that won't happen with Lee around sir." Kath added
"I see. Well other than that has she said anything that might given reason for her actions?"
"She called my wife a murderer."
General Hammond, Kath, and Jack turned to see Lee standing at the door. "Lee I thought you were with Elena."
" I was until I saw the tray of so called food they brought Elena." Lee replied as he walked in.
"Lee, Kath and Jack were just telling me about what Lt. Col Wilmington is doing. Now what is this about her calling Elena a murderer?"
"Well I asked Elena how things went with her lawyers and she told me that Wilmington came right out and asked her why she killed Dr. Snider."
"She What?" General Hammond said nearly yelling. He stood and paced a bit. "I'll have to have a nice long talk with her about what she can and can not do around here. Thank you all for bringing this to my attention."
"General Hammond if at all possible could you give an order to make sure that she can't see my wife alone. I'd like to be with Elena when Wilmington is questioning her."
"No problem Lee. I took care of that last night. I gave an order allowing any one to see Elena other than Wilmington. If she wishes to see Elena myself, Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, or General Hammond has to accompany her." Kath said with a smile.
Jack shook his head. "I knew there was a reason for your smirk a moment ago when you said you took care of things."
"So what will she do when she learns of Kath's new order?" Lee asked
"Probably come complain. I told the Airman to tell her if she had a problem with my order to take it up with me." Kath replied "I can't wait to see the look on her face when she finds out about my order."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 0930 hours - Guest Quarters
A new Airman was guarding the door, but he had been informed of Col O'Neill's orders. As Lt. Col. Wilmington approached she smiled thinking of the questions she would ask the Captain. She stopped at the door and looked at the Airman. "Is Lt. Col. Mackenzie or Commander Rhabb inside?"
"No ma'am." The Airman replied.
"Good." She started to enter but he raised his gun. "What are you doing?"
"I'm sorry ma'am but I have orders not to let you in with out Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, Col. O'Neill, or General Hammond here to accompany you inside."
"And just who gave this order?"
"Col O'Neill ma'am, and I was told to tell you that you can talk to her about this if you have a problem."
"And I intend to do just that." She said as she marched angrily to Hammond's office.
When she arrived at General Hammond's office she found Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, Col. Kath O'Neill, Col. Jack O'Neill, Major Samantha Carter and Lee were already with the General. Not bothering to knock she barged in. "General Hammond I demand to know the meaning of this."
"Lt. Col. sit down." General Hammond ordered. "We need to talk about your behavior at my base."
"My behavior? Sir I'm just doing my job. I went to question the Captain and was told I'm not allowed to see her unless your self, Col. O'Neill, Lt. Col Mackenzie, or Commander Rhabb is with me. I was told Col. O'Neill gave this order. And you want to talk about my behavior?"
Kath smirked and looked to the General who just shook his head. "Col. would you care to explain to her the reason you gave that order?"
"Gladly General." Kath stood and walked over to Wilmington. "After you tell me why the devil you gave the order for Elena to have no visitors!" Kath barked. Not in the mood for her attitude.
"Murderers have no right to see visitors." Wilmington replied.
"My wife is not a murderer!" Lee yelled as he moved toward Wilmington.
"You better be able to back that statement up." Kath said in a firm voice.
"She's got you all wrapped around her little finger so tight you can't see the fact that she's a murderer." Wilmington said.
Lee went for her, but Sam stopped him. "Easy Lee." Sam said as she held him back.
Kath's temper flared and her eyes turned a dark green. Seeing that Jack got in front of her. "Easy love. Don't need to lose your temper. You'll only get yourself in trouble."
"I know but hitting her will make me feel a lot better."
"Col. Stand down! That's an order." Hammond bellowed as he stood up. Wilmington moved slowly back toward the door. "Lt. Col Wilmington stay here. Jack take Kath and let her cool off. Lee why don't you go and make sure your wife is ok."
Jack nodded and Kath mumbled as he led her out the room and Lee glared at Wilmington as he walked out with Sam. "Sir we're going to talk with Elena some more." Harm said before he and Mac headed out after Lee and Sam.
Hammond nodded and turned to Wilmington. "Now Lt. Col. sit down and let's clear a few things up." General Hammond said as he sat back down. He waited until Wilmington sat down and then continued. "Now I don't know how you run things at your office, but here we have certain rules and regulations that we follow. And we follow the chain of command. Now Col. O'Neill told me about your order. I agree with her order."
"Sir she had no right."
"She had every right to over rule that order. If she didn't I would have. Now as for your behavior towards Elena that's inexcusable. I will not allow you or any one else to harass or disrespect any officer under my commander no matter what their rank. Now if you wish to continue your investigation and walk around the base with out a senior officer with you at all times I suggest you first apologize to Captain Stetson and her husband, and second unless you have evidence to back up what you say keep your opinions to your self. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes sir."
"Good," He stood then continued. "Now let's go."
"Go sir?"
"Yes I'm going to personally accompany you to see Captain Stetson so you can apologize to her and Lee." He walked over to the door and waited for her. "Let's go Lt. Col."
"Yes sir." She stood and followed him to the room Elena was being held in.
The airman opened the door and allowed Hammond and Wilmington to enter. Hammond walked over to Elena and when she started to stand he said, "Remain seated Captain. We won't be here long. I believe Lt. Col. Wilmington has something to tell you and Lee."
Wilmington walked over slowly trying to think of something to say. "I.. uh.. I apologize for the way I treated you. I apologize for giving the order for you to have no visitors. I should have checked with the General Hammond first before giving an order like that."
It wasn't exactly what Hammond wanted to hear but he guessed it would have to do. "Thank you Lt. Col. Now I'll leave you to do your work." He turned and left.
Elena glared at Wilmington, and she glared back at Elena. She knew that Hammond had ordered her to do that and that she didn't mean a word of it. Mac noticed the tension between the two and she spoke up. "Elena why don't we go over what happened the night of the murder again."
Elena nodded. "Alright." before Elena could continue there was a knock on the door.
"I'll get it." Sam said as she stood and walked to the door. She opened the door to see Major Davis. "Major is there something you needed?"
"Yes ma'am. You have a visitor Major Carter. He's in General Hammond's office."
Sam nodded and followed him to the General's office. When she entered the room she was surprised by who she saw. "Dad? What are you doing here?"
Retired General Jacob Carter, who was now blended with the Tok'ra Salmek and served as an ambassador for Earth, stood and smiled. "Hi Sammy. I came as soon as I heard about Elena. I need to speak with you and the rest of SG1 and SG2."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 1100 hours- Briefing room
Colonel Jack O'Neill, Colonel Kath O'Neill, Dr. Daniel Jackson, Major Elizabeth Jackson, Major Charles Kawalsky, Major Stephanie Kawalsky, Teal'C, and Jonas Quinn took their seats and waited for General Hammond and Major Carter to arrive. A few moments later General Hammond, Major Carter and Jacob Carter walked in and Sam took her seat. "SG1, SG2 Jacob has some information for you." Hammond said as he sat down.
"While working undercover in the ranks of a Goa'lud System Lord I learned that another Goa'lud has approached the System Lord and suggested an alliance." Jacob said as he stood in front of them.
"Which snake is it this time?" Jack asked.
Jacob's eyes closed and he bowed his head as his symbiot Salmek took over. "It is Sekhmet. To prove her loyalty she has offered to rid the System Lords of SG1 and SG2."
"Sekhmet the slayer, eye of Ra." Daniel said. The others looked at him and he continued, "She was a giant lioness. According to myth she was sent by Ra to kill all the wicked men on Earth. But after tasting blood she couldn't stop and continued to kill every thing she saw. Ra tricked her by having beer mixed with red ochre. Then she became Hathor, the cow headed love goddess."
"Whoa wait. Hathor's dead. So shouldn't this seckment be dead too?" Jack questioned.
Jacob's eyes glowed briefly as he took back control. "Its Sekhmet Jack and no she's not dead. What Daniel said is the myth that was handed down by the ancient Egyptians. As far as the Goa'lud go that's not exactly how it happened. True Ra sent her to kill man and she found after a while she couldn't stop. Not wanting to lose all his slaves Ra tricked her and locked her away in a tomb on another planet. Apparently someone found her and released her."
"And now she's vowed to get rid of us. Just great." Lizzy said shaking her head. "First Elena's framed for doc Snider's murder now this. Please don't tell me any more bad news."
"That's why I came as soon as I heard about Elena. I was able to slip in during the last meeting of the System Lords. Sekhmet was there, but I couldn't get a good look at her. She wore a hood and concealed herself. She told them she would destroy you from the inside out."
"So you're saying that Dr. Snider was killed by Sekhmet?" Jonas asked.
"I believe so." Jacob replied.
"Great we'll just tell the lawyers a frelling snake killed the doc. They'll believe that alright." Kath said sarcastically.
Jack just shook his head and mumbled, "Oh for crying out loud."
"Well people we have to do something. What I'd like to know is how this Goa'lud got on the planet and how she got on base to get Elena's knife with out our knowing." Hammond said
"Sir its possible she didn't actually do it herself. She probably has a person that has access to the base working for her. If she was on base I would have been able to tell. Since my experience with Jolinar I have been able to sense when a Goa'lud or Tok'ra symbiot is present." Sam replied.
"So what do we do? I mean we have orders not to interfere with the investigation." Jonas inquired.
"We do what ever it takes." Kath replied. "Orders or no orders if a snake is behind this we have to find out who is working for her and stop them and Sekhmet."
Jacob nodded "I'll get you all the information I can. I have to speak with the Tok'ra high council about this. Maybe some of our other operatives have some information that could help."
Hammond stood and nodded. "In the mean time keep your eyes open. If someone was able to get on base to get Elena's knife chances are he or she is still around."
"Sir should we tell Elena about this?" Lizzy asked.
"I'd wait a while. At least until we're sure Sekhmet is behind this. At the moment it's just a suspicion. For now just tell her we may have a lead." Jacob said. "I'll return as soon as I get some more information."
"Thank you Jacob. SG1, SG2 dismissed." Hammond said before walking with Jacob to the gate room.
****DISCLAIMER: all characters belong to the rightful owners. My made up characters are my own creation. I don't claim to own the characters from Stargate SG1, Scarecrow and Mrs. King, Farscape and JAG, nor do I make a profit from this story. This was written purely for my own entertainment and the entertainment of others.****
Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado- July 12, 2003: 0900 hours
General George Hammond was returning to the base after visiting his granddaughters. "Morning General." Hammond just smiled and nodded slightly to the young officer who greeted him as he walked to his office.
As he entered his office he found Major Davis waiting for him. "General Hammond." Davis said as he stood and saluted.
"At ease Major." Hammond replied as he sat at his desk. "So what brings you out here?"
"General Hammond sir its about Dr. Snider," Major Davis started then hesitated almost as if he was thinking of how to say what was on his mind. "Sir, he's been murdered."
JAG Headquarters, Alexandria Virginia 0800 hours
Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie walked into the office smiling. "Morning Bud." She said as Lt. Bud Roberts approached her.
"Morning Ma'am. The admiral wants to see you in his office right away."
"Thank you Bud." Lt. Colonel Mackenzie said as she headed for the Admiral's office. She knocked on the door and entered when she heard him call from inside. She walked in to find Commander Harmon Rhabb Jr. sitting in front of Admiral A.J. Chegwidden. "You wanted to see me Sir?"
"Yes Lt. Colonel. Please have a seat." He motioned toward the seat beside the one in which Commander Rhabb was sitting. When Lt. Colonel Mackenzie was seated he continued, "I received a call from an old friend of mine, General George Hammond, a couple hours ago. He asked me to send my best officer to defend one of his officers."
"So why send both of us? I'm sure the General doesn't want you to send a prosecutor." Commander Rhabb inquired.
"No he doesn't Commander, but I'm sending the two of you to work together as a team. George is the Commanding officer of a research base in Colorado. The work done there is so top secret that I don't even have clearance for it. That's why I'm sending the two of you. I know I can count on you two to defend the officer and get to the bottom of all of this as quickly as possible. Especially seeing the President has expressed great concern about this."
"The President sir?" Lt. Colonel Mackenzie asked.
"Yes Lt. Colonel the President. It seems the officer murdered a very important scientist and with the fact that she's around a lot of highly classified material he's just a little concerned about this whole mess. George said he would brief you when you arrive."
"Sir if I may ask just who are we defending?" Commander Rhabb asked.
"He didn't say who she was. Only that he's positive she had no reason to kill Dr, Snider"
"Snider?"
"Yes Lt. Colonel. You know him?"
"Only by name sir." Lt. Colonel Mackenzie replied. "He's a leading scientist of Quantum Physics. A friend of mine attended a lector he and Major Samantha Carter were giving."
The admiral nodded. "Well you'll get a chance to speak with Major Carter. She's stationed at the base, but I don't know if she's the officer you'll be defending." The admiral stood and continued, "Your plane leaves in two hours. Major Davis will meet you at the airport and take you to the base from there. Dismissed."
"Yes sir." Harm and Mac replied in unison as they stood to leave.
"Good luck." Admiral Chegwidden called as they walked out the door.
Colonels Jack and Kath O'Neill's house, Colorado Springs 1100 hours
Jack O'Neill rolled over and smiled at his sleeping wife, Kath. He pulled her close and gently kissed her forehead and closed his eyes. Just as he started to drift back to sleep the phone rang. He groaned and reached over and picked up the receiver. "Hello."
"Jack. It's General Hammond. I'm sorry to interrupt your and Kath's vacation, but we've got a situation at the base. Is Kath awake?"
"No sir." Jack started but stopped when Kath sat up and looked at him. "Yes sir she just got up here she is." Jack handed Kath the phone and stood and started getting dressed.
"What's the problem General?" Kath asked knowing something was wrong.
"Kath Dr. Snider has been murdered, and from the evidence it looks like one of ours killed him." The General replied.
"Who?" Kath asked. She nearly dropped the phone when the General told her who was accused of murdering Dr. Snider. "Sir there's no way in."
"I know Kath." General Hammond said cutting her off. "That's why I've asked my friend Admiral AJ Chegwidden to send his best JAG lawyer to defend her. Major Davis and some other officers are heading over to get her. I'd like you to go with them and try to keep her calm and let her know that we're here for her."
"I understand sir. Jack and I are on our way." Kath said before hanging up the phone.
Captain Elena Stetson's house, Colorado Springs 1200 hours
Elena stood in the kitchen, still in her red satin nightgown, fixing bacon and eggs for Lee. It was late when Lee returned home from his latest mission the night before, and after saying "hello" properly to his wife, after being gone for almost two weeks, he fell fast asleep. Elena woke up at her usual early time and let Lee sleep, while she finished a report for General Hammond.
Lee tossed lightly in the other room as the smell of bacon and eggs started to wake him up. He slowly opened his eyes and looked to find Elena wasn't with him. He glanced at the clock and smiled knowing she had let him oversleep. He climbed out of bed and slipped on his robe and silently made his way to the kitchen, where he found Elena setting the table. He smiled and watched her for a moment before silently walking up behind he and wrapping his arms around her waist. "Morning beautiful," he whispered before kissing her neck.
Elena smiled and laid her head back against his shoulder. "Morning Love. Did you sleep well?"
"Mmmhmm very well. Thanks for letting me sleep late." He gently kissed up her neck to her ear, sending shivers down her spine, and whispered in a husky voice, "You wore me out."
Elena laughed and pulled out his grip just enough to turn around and face him. "Oh no you don't Stetson." Lee raised an eyebrow and smiled. "I told you to get some sleep. You were worn out when you got home last night." She wrapped her arms around his neck and her fingers played lightly with the hair on the back of his neck. "And I told you I've got all week off."
Lee smiled and wrapped his arms around her waist once more pulling her close. "I know but I missed you." He placed a gentle but tender kiss on her lips.
Elena pulled back breaking the kiss and gazed into his eyes smiling as she got lost in his hazel depths. "I missed you too." Lee leaned down and captured her lips with his once more and Elena wrapped her arms tighter around his neck deepening the kiss.
Forgetting about the dishes, the eggs, the bacon, and everything else but the woman he loved more than life and its self, who he was holding in his arms, Lee swept Elena off her feet and carried her to the bedroom. Just as he placed her gently on the bed and covered her lips with his, the doorbell rang. "Thought you were off?" Lee said as he pulled back and sat on the edge of the bed.
"I am." Elena replied as she stood and placed her robe on over her nightgown. "So who ever it is won't be here long." She said as she walked out to answer the door. Lee sighed and ran his fingers through his hair.
Elena slowly opened the door and sighed when she saw Jack and Kath in uniform. "Morning Colonels. It never fails does it? I'll get dressed and you can brief me on our mission on the way to the base."
She started to walk away but Kath stopped her. "Elena it's not a mission. It's Dr. Snider, he's been murdered." Kath nearly sighed with relief at the shocked look on Elena's face.
"What? Murdered? When?"
"Last night." Kath replied. Elena walked away, leaving the door open, and sat on the couch. Kath and Jack entered slowly and stood in front of her. "Elena we need you to come to the base with us and answer some questions."
"Questions? Why?"
"There's been a misunderstanding and apparently during the investigation some things have come up that seem to point to you." Elena started to speak but Kath cut her off. "I know that you didn't do it. Jack knows and so does the General, but we need you to answer a few questions so the officers investigating know you had nothing to do with Dr. Snider's death."
Elena nodded and stood. "I'll get dressed." She turned to go into her bedroom and saw Lee standing at the door. She just looked down unsure of what to tell him seeing she wasn't sure why she was a suspect in the Dr's murder herself, and walked by him with out a word.
Lee looked at his wife then at Kath and Jack. "Want to tell me what's going on?" He asked as he walked over to them.
"Lee it doesn't look good at the moment." Jack replied.
"There's a lot of evidence against her. I'm hoping she can just answer the questions and they'll drop it all. We know that she didn't murder Dr. Snider, but we have to prove that now. Just in case General Hammond has sent for the best JAG lawyers for her. They should be arriving later today." Kath said.
Major Davis walked in and avoided looking at Lee. "Ma'am we need to get back to the base."
"You can wait Major. You're accusing of her murder the least you can do is let her get dressed and eat her food." Kath said motioning to the food sitting on the kitchen table.
"Colonel I'm just doing my job." Davis replied.
"Well you can go to your job somewhere else. Jack and I will get her to the base after she has her lunch." Major Davis just stood there looking at Kath not sure of how to respond. "Go back to the base Major. That's an order."
"Yes ma'am." He turned and headed out the door.
Elena quickly changed into her uniform and returned to the living room where Jack, Kath, and Lee were waiting. She stood in front of the for a moment silent unsure of what to say. When no one else made a move she said, "Let's just go get this over with."
"Go ahead and eat your food Elena. I sent Davis and the others back to the base. If they're going to do this to you they're going to treat you with the respect you deserve as an officer. I'll make sure of that." Kath said getting a little upset about the whole thing.
"That's ok Kath. I've lost my appetite now. Let's just go to the base." Elena replied.
"Come on sweetheart you need to eat something." Lee said trying to convince her to have something before she left.
"Its ok Lee. You go on and eat. I'll be fine." Elena forced herself to smile in order to keep Lee from worrying. "I'm ready Kath."
Seeing there was no changing her mind Kath sighed and she and Jack stood and walked to the door and looked back. "We'll wait outside." The two stepped outside and closed the door.
Lee stood and placed his arms around Elena. "You want me to go with you?"
"No its ok sweetheart. I'll go and answer their questions and get this all straightened out." Elena replied trying to sound optimistic. She wasn't sure how bad things were but she had a feeling they were pretty bad if it got Jack and Kath out of their house when they were on vacation.
Lee just looked at her and nodded slightly. He hoped she was right and answering the questions would be enough to convince them she was innocent, but if it was as bad as Jack and Kath said it would take a lot more than a few answers to clear this up. "You sure?"
"Yeah." She said as she started to leave. Lee grabbed her arm and pulled her back in his arms and held her tight before kissing her gently. When they separated Elena looked in his eyes and saw the concern. She knew how serious things could be with Dr. Snider's murder, but she wasn't ready to give up hope that she wasn't the main suspect. She turned and walked outside joining Kath and Jack.
Kath watched as Elena walked slowly to the car and climbed in the back seat. She wished she knew what to say, but she couldn't think of anything. Seeing her concerned expression Jack placed his hand on Kath's shoulder. She simply nodded and they climbed in the car and headed toward the base.
Dulles Air Port, Washington DC 1000 hours
"So Harm any ideas on this case?" Lt. Colonel Mackenzie asked as they waited for the plane to take off.
"We don't even know any details yet Mac. So how can you ask if I have any ideas?" Commander Rhabb asked.
"I was just asking what you thought about it. I mean an officer working at a Top Secret research lab murders a top scientist. Apparently General Hammond believes she's innocent. He called the Admiral and asked for the best."
"Yeah. We'll just have to see what the evidence is against her." Harm replied and she just nodded and looked out the window. "There's something else about this that you're not telling me isn't there?"
"Harm I'm just worried a friend of mine is stationed out in Colorado. I'm not sure if she's at this base or another one though."
"And you're worried the officer we're defending might be your friend."
"Yes."
"Mac if it is your friend I'll do what ever I can. But let's just wait until we reach the base to find out who it is were defending." Harm said taking her hand in his to reassure her. She smiled slightly and nodded.
"Ladies and Gentlemen we will now be leaving Dulles airport. Please fasten your seat belts and make sure all luggage is secure.." The flight attendant said as the plane started down the runway.
Colorado Springs Airport 1400 hours
Major Davis and two other officers waited in the lobby of the airport for the plane to land. Getting impatient Davis stood and started to pace. "Sir the plane isn't due for another 5 minutes." Lt. Michaels pointed out to him.
"I know that Lt., but I've got a lot on my mind. I don't want to believe she did, but there's nothing so far to say that she didn't." Davis said as he sat back down.
When the plane landed Harm and Mac prepared to exit the plane. "Well let's go and get started with this case." Harm said as he waited for Mac to go ahead of him.
She nodded slightly at his manners and proceeded to exit the plane. As they walked into the lobby Major Davis stood and approached them. "Lt. Colonel Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb. I'm Major Davis. If you'll follow me we'll head to the base and your luggage will be sent to your hotel."
Mac nodded and replied "Thank you Major." They walked to the airport parking lot and climbed into the limo that would take them to the base.
Major Davis sat in silence for a long time. Then he finally spoke up. "For the record I'd like you to know that no one at the base believes the Captain murdered Dr. Snider. She's a loyal and dedicated officer."
Mac almost sighed with relief at hearing the officer's rank. "Major can you tell us a little more about this case? All we were told was an officer from the Cheyenne mountain base is accused of murdering Dr. snider and that General Hammond called Admiral Chegwidden and requested the best lawyer."
"Well ma'am I don't have all the details myself. All base personnel have been ordered not to interfere in the investigation, myself included, due to the fact Captain Stetson is close to almost everyone at the base. The evidence I do know about is strong. Her field knife was the murder weapon and she was home alone on the night of the murder, and the officer I talked to said there's a lot more evidence that points to her."
"A field knife is a field knife Major. How can they be sure that it's the Captain's knife?" Commander Rhabb asked.
"Well sir in most cases you'd be right but the Captain has a knife different from the others. It was a gift to her from a friend when she was promoted to Captain. Her name is engraved on the side on the handle."
"I see." Harm looked at Mac and sighed, "This doesn't look like it's going to be an easy case."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 1430 hours - Guest quarters
Elena paced around the small room nervously. "What's taking so long?" She said to herself seeing there was no one else in the room. Two officers with guns guarded the door. Although she wasn't in the brig she was still a prisoner. Frustrated she ran her fingers through her hair.
As she started to sit down the door opened and General Hammond, Major Samantha Carter, Kath and Jack walked in. "How are you doing Elena?" The general asked.
"I'm being accused of murder, a murder that I did not commit, I'm being held at the base where I work, by the people I work for and with and risk my life for on an almost daily basis. How do you think I feel?" Elena said raising her voice slightly. "Sir." She added after a moment realizing she was speaking to the General.
"I understand Captain, but until we get to the bottom of this I'm afraid you'll have to stay here." Hammond replied.
"Sir, you don't think I murdered Dr. Snider. Do you?" Elena asked as she looked at each of them for some reassurance.
"Elena I."
"Elena none of us believe that. We know you had no reason to kill Snider, and even if you did we know you would never do that." Kath said cutting the General off.
"But there's a lot of evidence against you. Your field knife was used to kill Dr. Snider and Major Davis was told there's a lot more evidence that points to you that he wasn't given details on." Sam said.
"So in other words unless we find who really killed Snider and framed me I'll be punished for it."
"No that's not what I'm saying. Elena I."
"Elena what Sam means is it will not be an easy thing to prove you didn't murder him, but we will do it. The JAG officers that will be defending you are the best. They'll get to the bottom of this." Kath said.
"JAG officers?"
"Yes Captain. Seeing how close you are with almost everyone on base, we've been ordered not to interfere with the investigation. But I called in a favor or two and asked Admiral Chegwidden at the JAG office to send the best officers to defend you."
Elena nodded. "Thank you sir."
"They should be here soon. Major Davis just left a little while ago to meet them at the airport." Sam said.
"General what about Lee? Can he."
"Lee has already been called. He's bringing you some things and should be here soon. I'll send him in here as soon as you finish talking with your defense lawyers." Hammond replied knowing that Lee was the one person that Elena might find a little comfort in during this mess.
"Thank you sir."
"If you need anything just let the guard know and I'll take care of it." Hammond said before he turned and walked out.
Sam walked over to Elena and placed her hand on her shoulder. "If you need to talk or if there's anything I can do just let me know."
Elena nodded. "I will Sam." Sam nodded and walked out leaving just Kath and Jack.
Kath turned to Jack and whispered something and Jack nodded and walked out waiting by the door. Kath walked over to the bed and sat beside Elena. "We'll get to the bottom of this. I promise you." Kath said placing her hand on Elena's.
Elena nodded. "I know Kath I just hate having to stay in here. I should be out there clearing my own name, not relying on lawyers to do it for me."
"I know how you feel. All of us wish we could help, but we've got our orders."
"Does the whole base know?"
"Most yes. There may be a few who don't know yet. But I can tell you any one that knows you knows you didn't do this. When General Hammond called me this morning and asked me to accompany Major Davis to your house I knew there was a huge mistake." Kath sighed and then realized something. "Wait a minute. Lee was home last night wasn't he?"
"Yes but it was after midnight. His plane was delayed. He was supposed to be home around 9. I left the base early so I could go to the store and have a wonderful dinner waiting for him when he got home."
Kath nodded. "And none of the neighbors saw you at home?"
"My neighbors are elderly folks who get up at noon and go to bed at 8. If they did see me it was too early in the evening to prove I didn't leave the house."
Kath nodded. "You just hold on Captain. Things will work themselves out. Like the others said if you need anything."
"I know Kath. Thanks."
Kath stood and nodded. "Jack and I will check in on you a little later." She walked slowly out the door to where Jack was waiting. Elena couldn't make it out but she heard Kath mumbling something in a very angry tone.
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 1430 hours - General Hammond's Office
General Hammond returned to his office to find a tall brunette officer waiting for him. She stood and saluted him. "General Hammond Sir. I'm Lt. Colonel Amy Wilmington. I'll be running the investigation of Dr. Snider's murder. I understand you have the officer who murdered him in custody."
"We have Captain Stetson in a guarded room. It's your job to find who murdered Dr. Snider." General Hammond replied in a slightly annoyed tone as he sat behind his desk.
"Yes well Sir I've gathered the evidence. She's the one that murdered him all right. There's no doubt about it. What room is she in? I wish to speak with her."
Before Hammond could reply Harm and Mac came to the door. "I'm afraid you'll have to wait to see our client." Hammond and Wilmington looked at the door. "Sorry to interrupt sir. I'm Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie and this is Commander Harmon Rhabb. Admiral Chegwidden sent us to defend the Captain."
Hammond stood with a slight smile on his face. "Come in Lt. Colonel, Commander. This is Lt. Colonel Wilmington. She has just informed me that she will be running the investigation."
"I assume you're also the prosecutor if this should go to court?" Rhabb questioned.
"Yes I am. And believe me this will go to court. Now if you'll excuse me I have work to do. Once you've finished talking with your client please send for me. I'll be questioning some of the other officers." She walked and closed the door as she left, with out a nod or salute to the General showing just how stuck up she was.
"Please have a seat," Hammond said motioning to the chairs in front of his desk. "As you may have noticed things are a little hectic around here. Everyone's a little upset about our orders to stay out of the investigation."
"We understand sir." Harm replied as he sat down.
"Sir other than what little Major Davis told us we know nothing about this case." Mac said wanting to get to the point.
"I know Lt. Colonel." Hammond said as he handed her and Harm a folder. "That's all the information I have on this."
Mac opened the folder and looked at the reports and photos of the crime scene. "No sign of forced entry. Victim was stabbed in the back with a field knife. The blade entered his back and punched his left lung and then was twisted and entered the heart killing him."
"Sounds like the killer knew exactly what they were doing." Harm stated.
"Yes and according to the reports he was murdered around 9 pm." Mac closed the folder and looked at the General. "I'd like to speak with the Captain."
"Of course." Hammond said as he stood and walked to the door and called the officer that was standing outside. "Airman, take the Lt. Colonel and the Commander to the guest room where Captain Stetson is."
"Yes Sir." The Airman saluted and waited for Harm and Mac.
"Thank you sir." Mac said as she walked by nodding slightly.
Hammond nodded and returned to his desk. Harm and Mac followed the Airman to the room where Elena was laying on the bed counting the tiles on the ceiling. When they entered Elena jumped and stood at attention. "At ease Captain." Mac said as she placed the folder on the table and sat in a nearby chair. "I'm Lt. Colonel Sarah Mackenzie and this is my partner Commander Harmon Rhabb. We've been sent from the JAG office to handle your case."
Elena nodded and sat back down on the bed. She looked at Mac and said, "Thank you for coming ma'am." She turned to Harm and added "You too sir. From what I understand I'm in a lot of trouble."
"I'm afraid so Captain. There's a lot of evidence against you. Can you tell me how you knew Dr. Snider?"
"Well ma'am Dr. Snider was assigned to a research project that I was working on with Major Samantha Carter, Dr. Daniel Jackson and Major Elizabeth Jackson. He and Major Carter had given lectors together on Quantum Physics and she introduce me to him when we started the project."
"And what was this project?" Harm asked.
"Sorry Sir. It's classified as is all the work done here on the base." Elena replied with out hesitating.
"Its ok Captain. I don't think we need the details of the project." Mac said looking at Harm. He nodded knowing she was right. "Did you ever see the Doctor off base?"
"No ma'am. Well there were a few times when Major Carter, Dr. Snider, and I left the base together for lunch, but it was always business. We discussed the project the entire time."
"Thought it was classified?" Harm asked
"It is sir. We always went to my house, Major Carter's place, or Major and Dr. Jackson's apartment. If we went any where else it was just to pick up the food, and then we returned to base."
Harm nodded and sat down beside Mac. "So you never socialize with any of the other officers?"
"Oh no sir. I'm friends with lots of the officers. From time to time we have dinner with each other and socialize off base. I see the members of my team and Colonel O'Neill's team almost daily on and off base. Our two teams are like on big happy family. Actually almost all of the two teams are related somehow."
"I see. So that explains the no interference order." Mac said looking at Harm. "Captain..."
"Ma'am please call me Elena. Seeing that I'm suspended until this is settled I'd rather not be referred to by my rank."
"Ok Elena. Now can you tell us what happened when you last saw Dr. Snider until the time you were brought to the base this morning?"
"Well after we finished working for the day we were packing our gear up. Sam asked if I'd like to join her for dinner."
"Sam?" Harm interrupted.
"Yes. Major Carter. She's known as Sam to most of us."
"I see." Harm said. "Please continue."
"Well I told her I couldn't because I had to get home and fix a special meal for Lee." Elena saw a hint of confusion in Harm's face and before he could speak she said, "Lee's my husband sir." Harm nodded in understanding and she continued, "Dr. Snider asked me to say hello to Lee and then I left the base. That was the last time I saw him."
"What did you do after leaving the base Elena?" Mac asked
"I went home and looked in the frig. Seeing there wasn't much I went to the store and bought some things then returned home and started cooking."
"What time did you arrive home from the store?" Harm inquired.
"Around 7:30 Sir. I saw my neighbor Patty in her garden when I cam home. She can verify the time."
"Can she also verify you were home the rest of the night?" Mac asked hoping this might be the break they needed.
"No ma'am. Patty and my other neighbors are elderly folks. They go to bed at 8 and get up at noon the next day. So I doubt they saw me after that. You can ask them if you wish though."
"And you didn't leave the house after returning from the store?" Harm asked
"No sir. I started cooking steaks and potatoes."
"Steak and potatoes? So you were expecting your husband home soon?" Harm asked
"Yes sir. I expected him home at 9, but his plane was delayed it and was almost midnight when he got home."
"So what happened while you waited?" Mac asked
"Well I didn't know the plane was delayed so I changed out of my uniform showered and waited for Lee. By 9 the table was set and the food was ready. I sat on the couch waiting for a long time. I finally fell asleep and I woke up when Lee came in and carried me from the couch to the bedroom."
"So you were home alone waiting for your husband. He got home late and there's no one who can testify you didn't leave the house. This is definitely not going to be an easy case."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 2100 hours - Guest Quarters
After talking for several hours with Elena, Harm and Mac sent for Lt. Col. Amy Wilmington. Lt. Col. Wilmington walked in with a smirk on her face. "Well, well it's about time I met the murderer."
Elena jumped up. "I didn't murder Dr. Snider!" she yelled. Mac placed a hand on Elena's shoulder and told her to sit back down.
"That's what they all say." Wilmington replied as she placed her brief case on the table."
"And I say innocent until proven guilty." Mac said in a stern voice.
"Ah yes that old saying. Well I suppose that's what happens when you trust your clients."
Mac started to protest but harm stopped her. "Look we're here to do a job," Harm said. "Now why don't you do yours?"
"Gladly." Wilmington replied as she sat down in front of Elena. "Now Captain, tell me why you murdered Dr. Snider."
Mac stood. "Out client is innocent until proven guilty. So unless you have evidence to prove with out a doubt that she murdered snider change you line of questioning." Mac paused and looked at her watch then Elena. "On second thought just leave. It's late and Elena needs her rest." Mac gathered her things and stood. "We'll continue this in the morning." She and Harm walked to the door and waited for Wilmington.
"Very well then." She said as she stood and walked to the door. Harm and Mac walked out the door and down the Hall to General Hammond's office, but Wilmington stopped at the door and waited until the were both out of site. The she turn to the Airman whom was guarding the door. "Airman, no one is allowed to enter this room other than myself, Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb and General Hammond. Is that understood?"
"Yes ma'am." The airman replied.
"Good." She said as she walked away.
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 2115 hours - General Hammond's Office
General Hammond was sitting in his office talking with Lee when Harm and Mac arrived at his door. As they entered he and Lee looked at them. "Ah Lt. Col., Commander. Finished talking with Captain Stetson?"
"Yes sir. We plan to do more investigating in the morning. We just wanted to let you know before we left the base." Mac said.
"Thank you Lt. Col." General Hammond turned to Lee and said, "Lee this is Lt. Col. Mackenzie and Commander Harmon Rhabb. They're Elena's lawyers. Lt. Col., Commander this is Lee Stetson, Captain Stetson's husband."
"Ah its nice to meet you Lee. Been hearing good things about you." Harm said as he held out his hand to shake Lee's.
Lee nodded and shook Harm's hand. "Just wish it was under better circumstances commander." Lee looked at General Hammond. "Sir is it ok if I see her now?"
"Go ahead Lee. Stay as long as you like." Hammond replied.
"Thank you sir!" Lee said with a smile. "It was nice meeting you two. Thanks for helping Elena." Lee said as he turned to Mac and Harm.
"Just doing our job Mr. Stetson. Now go see that wife of yours. She's been waiting for you all day." Mac said with a smile.
Lee nodded and left and hurried to Elena's room. When he got there he found the airman standing in front of the door. "I'm sorry sir I can't let you in."
"My wife is in there. Move aside." Lee said trying to be nice.
"I'm sorry sir but I have orders not to let anyone in." the Airman said.
"I just came from General Hammond's office he told me I could see her. So I know he didn't give that order."
"No Sir he didn't, but an order's an order and I have to follow it sir. Now please I'll have to ask you to leave."
"Look one way or another I'm getting in there." Lee stated as he started to lose his temper.
"No I'm afraid not sir." The Airman said as he raised his gun to point it at Lee.
"Look Buster move or I'll." Lee started but was cut off by another officer that was passing by.
"Whoa Lee. Take it easy. What's wrong?" Kath asked.
"This officer claims he has orders not to let anyone in there, but I just came from General Hammond and he said I could stay as long as I like." Lee said as he ran his fingers through his hair.
"That's correct ma'am. Lt. Col. Wilmington."
"Lt. Col.?" Kath questioned interrupting the Airman.
"Yes ma'am. She told me no one was to see the Captain other than herself, Lt. Col. Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, and General Hammond."
"Well here's new orders for you Airman. Since I out rank Wilmington I'm now ordering you to ignore any order she tries to give you or any one that is guarding the Captain. Captain Stetson is allowed to have any visitor that wishes to see her, other than Lt. Colonel Wilmington. She can only enter if myself, Lt. Col. Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, or General Hammond accompanies her inside. Is that understood?" Kath said in a firm commanding voice.
"Yes ma'am!" The airman replied as he saluted.
"Thanks Kath." Lee said with a smile.
"Don't mention it Lee. She needs you right now more than ever and I'm not going to let some stuck up lawyer keep you or any of us from seeing her." Kath replied placing a hand on his shoulder. "Now go on in." The airman moved aside and opened the door for Lee and he walked in and the door was closed behind him. "Oh and Airman you make sure that all officers that guard this door know my orders and if Lt. Col. Wilmington has a problem with it tell her she can take it up with me." The Airman nodded and Kath walked down the hall.
Lee entered the room slowly hoping to surprise Elena, although after all the yelling outside he knew that would be almost impossible. To his surprise he found her on the small cot that served as a bed. He walked slowly over to her and smiled seeing she was sound asleep. He gently lifted her and he climbed on the bed and held her in his arms. Elena slowly woke up and opened her eyes and smiled up at Lee. "Hmmm and who says dreams don't come true?"
Lee smiled and kissed her gently. "Dreaming of me?" He said teasingly.
"Of course. What other strong handsome man do I know that gives a wonderful massage?"
"Oh I see how it is now. You married me for my massages." Lee said as he started to tickle her.
Elena laughed and grabbed his hands to stop his tickling. "That and much, much more Lee." Elena replied as she gazed into his hazel eyes getting lost in their depths. Lee gazed into her sweet brown eyes and then down at her tender lips. He smiled slightly when she darted her tongue out to moisten her lips. He looked back up at her eyes and never broke eye contact as he slowly lowered his lips to capture hers in a passionate, but tender kiss.
Elena wrapped her arms around his neck and deepened the kiss. When their lips finally parted Lee tightened his grip around her waist and pulled her closer. He placed his mouth beside her ear and in a low husky voice whispered, "I love you Mrs. Stetson."
Elena smiled and shivers ran up her spine as Lee started gently kissing her neck. "I love you too." She whispered as she played with the hair on the back of his neck.
When Elena started to rub his shoulders and gently nibble on his ear Lee pulled back and she looked at him with a curious expression. "You keep that up and I'll forget about your massage." Elena smiled knowing what he meant. She nodded and tried to hide a yawn. "Tired?"
"Yeah. It's been a long day and I didn't get a lot of sleep last night." Elena replied with a teasing grin.
Lee shook his head and laughed lightly. "Oh no you're not blaming me for that. You could have slept in with me. You got up bright and early on your own."
"Then I guess it's a good thing I let you sleep in. Other wise you might fall asleep in the middle of my massage."
Lee smiled the infamous Stetson grin "And we wouldn't want that now would we" he replied as he lowered his lips to hers once more. The kiss was slow and tender, but full of passion. When Lee pulled back he smiled and kissed her forehead gently and held her in his arms. "But before we get to that massage we need to talk."
"I had a feeling this was coming."
"Elena this is serious."
"I know Lee, but right now it's the last thing I want to think about" Elena replied as she placed her head on Lee's shoulder. "I've been talking with Lt. Col. Mackenzie and Commander Rhabb for hours. Not to mention I have to put up with Lt. Col. Wilmington."
"Yeah I'd like to give her a piece of my mind" Lee said remembering it was Wilmington that gave the order for Elena to have no visitors.
"Why what happened Lee?"
"She gave the guard at the door orders not to let any one in here to see you other than the General, your lawyers and herself. If it hadn't been for Kath I'm not sure what would have happened."
"God she's so.." Frustrated she groaned.
"I take it she wasn't too polite to you."
"Polite? Lee she called me a murderer! She asked me why I killed Dr. Snider. As far as she's concerned I'm guilty."
"What did Lt. Col Mackenzie and Commander Rhabb say?"
"They weren't too happy with her either. Lt. Col Mackenzie said we'd start tomorrow with more questions and that I needed my rest. I really don't want to see Wilmington in the morning."
"Well I'll do my best to make sure they let me stay with you while she's here. I don't care if she's a Lt. Col, a General or the President, she has no right to talk to you like that." Lee said and then he gently kissed her forehead and continued, "And I'm not going to let any one talk to my wife, the woman I love more than life its self, like she's a criminal."
Elena smiled as a single tear made its way down her cheek. "Oh Lee what would I do with out you?"
Lee gently wiped the tear from her cheek and kissed her gently. "I'll never leave you Elena, and no matter what happens I'll always be here for you." He said as he held her tight and caressed her cheek. Elena smiled and gently kissed his cheek and laid her head back on his shoulder and closed her eyes, happy just to be in his arms.
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado- July 13, 2003: 0900 hours - General Hammond's Office
General Hammond sat in his office reading over some papers when there was a knock on the door. "Come in." He called as he looked up.
Colonels Jack and Kath O'Neill stepped in and stood in front of his desk. "Morning Sir." They said together.
"Morning Colonels. Have a seat. What can I do for you two?"
"Its about Lt. Wilmington." Kath replied.
"What about her?"
"Sir she been doing everything she can to make this hard on Elena. Last night as I was leaving the base I saw Lee ready to hit the Airman guarding Elena's door. Apparently she gave him orders to let no one in to see Elena other than herself, Lt. Col. Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, and you."
"I assume you corrected that order." The General said.
"Yes sir." Kath smirk slightly "I made sure he understood Elena was allowed to have visitors."
"What else has she done?"
"Well I heard that she also told the officers taking Elena food that she was to have no dessert and nothing that could be considered real food." Jack replied.
"But you know that won't happen with Lee around sir." Kath added
"I see. Well other than that has she said anything that might given reason for her actions?"
"She called my wife a murderer."
General Hammond, Kath, and Jack turned to see Lee standing at the door. "Lee I thought you were with Elena."
" I was until I saw the tray of so called food they brought Elena." Lee replied as he walked in.
"Lee, Kath and Jack were just telling me about what Lt. Col Wilmington is doing. Now what is this about her calling Elena a murderer?"
"Well I asked Elena how things went with her lawyers and she told me that Wilmington came right out and asked her why she killed Dr. Snider."
"She What?" General Hammond said nearly yelling. He stood and paced a bit. "I'll have to have a nice long talk with her about what she can and can not do around here. Thank you all for bringing this to my attention."
"General Hammond if at all possible could you give an order to make sure that she can't see my wife alone. I'd like to be with Elena when Wilmington is questioning her."
"No problem Lee. I took care of that last night. I gave an order allowing any one to see Elena other than Wilmington. If she wishes to see Elena myself, Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, or General Hammond has to accompany her." Kath said with a smile.
Jack shook his head. "I knew there was a reason for your smirk a moment ago when you said you took care of things."
"So what will she do when she learns of Kath's new order?" Lee asked
"Probably come complain. I told the Airman to tell her if she had a problem with my order to take it up with me." Kath replied "I can't wait to see the look on her face when she finds out about my order."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 0930 hours - Guest Quarters
A new Airman was guarding the door, but he had been informed of Col O'Neill's orders. As Lt. Col. Wilmington approached she smiled thinking of the questions she would ask the Captain. She stopped at the door and looked at the Airman. "Is Lt. Col. Mackenzie or Commander Rhabb inside?"
"No ma'am." The Airman replied.
"Good." She started to enter but he raised his gun. "What are you doing?"
"I'm sorry ma'am but I have orders not to let you in with out Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, Col. O'Neill, or General Hammond here to accompany you inside."
"And just who gave this order?"
"Col O'Neill ma'am, and I was told to tell you that you can talk to her about this if you have a problem."
"And I intend to do just that." She said as she marched angrily to Hammond's office.
When she arrived at General Hammond's office she found Lt. Col Mackenzie, Commander Rhabb, Col. Kath O'Neill, Col. Jack O'Neill, Major Samantha Carter and Lee were already with the General. Not bothering to knock she barged in. "General Hammond I demand to know the meaning of this."
"Lt. Col. sit down." General Hammond ordered. "We need to talk about your behavior at my base."
"My behavior? Sir I'm just doing my job. I went to question the Captain and was told I'm not allowed to see her unless your self, Col. O'Neill, Lt. Col Mackenzie, or Commander Rhabb is with me. I was told Col. O'Neill gave this order. And you want to talk about my behavior?"
Kath smirked and looked to the General who just shook his head. "Col. would you care to explain to her the reason you gave that order?"
"Gladly General." Kath stood and walked over to Wilmington. "After you tell me why the devil you gave the order for Elena to have no visitors!" Kath barked. Not in the mood for her attitude.
"Murderers have no right to see visitors." Wilmington replied.
"My wife is not a murderer!" Lee yelled as he moved toward Wilmington.
"You better be able to back that statement up." Kath said in a firm voice.
"She's got you all wrapped around her little finger so tight you can't see the fact that she's a murderer." Wilmington said.
Lee went for her, but Sam stopped him. "Easy Lee." Sam said as she held him back.
Kath's temper flared and her eyes turned a dark green. Seeing that Jack got in front of her. "Easy love. Don't need to lose your temper. You'll only get yourself in trouble."
"I know but hitting her will make me feel a lot better."
"Col. Stand down! That's an order." Hammond bellowed as he stood up. Wilmington moved slowly back toward the door. "Lt. Col Wilmington stay here. Jack take Kath and let her cool off. Lee why don't you go and make sure your wife is ok."
Jack nodded and Kath mumbled as he led her out the room and Lee glared at Wilmington as he walked out with Sam. "Sir we're going to talk with Elena some more." Harm said before he and Mac headed out after Lee and Sam.
Hammond nodded and turned to Wilmington. "Now Lt. Col. sit down and let's clear a few things up." General Hammond said as he sat back down. He waited until Wilmington sat down and then continued. "Now I don't know how you run things at your office, but here we have certain rules and regulations that we follow. And we follow the chain of command. Now Col. O'Neill told me about your order. I agree with her order."
"Sir she had no right."
"She had every right to over rule that order. If she didn't I would have. Now as for your behavior towards Elena that's inexcusable. I will not allow you or any one else to harass or disrespect any officer under my commander no matter what their rank. Now if you wish to continue your investigation and walk around the base with out a senior officer with you at all times I suggest you first apologize to Captain Stetson and her husband, and second unless you have evidence to back up what you say keep your opinions to your self. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes sir."
"Good," He stood then continued. "Now let's go."
"Go sir?"
"Yes I'm going to personally accompany you to see Captain Stetson so you can apologize to her and Lee." He walked over to the door and waited for her. "Let's go Lt. Col."
"Yes sir." She stood and followed him to the room Elena was being held in.
The airman opened the door and allowed Hammond and Wilmington to enter. Hammond walked over to Elena and when she started to stand he said, "Remain seated Captain. We won't be here long. I believe Lt. Col. Wilmington has something to tell you and Lee."
Wilmington walked over slowly trying to think of something to say. "I.. uh.. I apologize for the way I treated you. I apologize for giving the order for you to have no visitors. I should have checked with the General Hammond first before giving an order like that."
It wasn't exactly what Hammond wanted to hear but he guessed it would have to do. "Thank you Lt. Col. Now I'll leave you to do your work." He turned and left.
Elena glared at Wilmington, and she glared back at Elena. She knew that Hammond had ordered her to do that and that she didn't mean a word of it. Mac noticed the tension between the two and she spoke up. "Elena why don't we go over what happened the night of the murder again."
Elena nodded. "Alright." before Elena could continue there was a knock on the door.
"I'll get it." Sam said as she stood and walked to the door. She opened the door to see Major Davis. "Major is there something you needed?"
"Yes ma'am. You have a visitor Major Carter. He's in General Hammond's office."
Sam nodded and followed him to the General's office. When she entered the room she was surprised by who she saw. "Dad? What are you doing here?"
Retired General Jacob Carter, who was now blended with the Tok'ra Salmek and served as an ambassador for Earth, stood and smiled. "Hi Sammy. I came as soon as I heard about Elena. I need to speak with you and the rest of SG1 and SG2."
Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base, Colorado 1100 hours- Briefing room
Colonel Jack O'Neill, Colonel Kath O'Neill, Dr. Daniel Jackson, Major Elizabeth Jackson, Major Charles Kawalsky, Major Stephanie Kawalsky, Teal'C, and Jonas Quinn took their seats and waited for General Hammond and Major Carter to arrive. A few moments later General Hammond, Major Carter and Jacob Carter walked in and Sam took her seat. "SG1, SG2 Jacob has some information for you." Hammond said as he sat down.
"While working undercover in the ranks of a Goa'lud System Lord I learned that another Goa'lud has approached the System Lord and suggested an alliance." Jacob said as he stood in front of them.
"Which snake is it this time?" Jack asked.
Jacob's eyes closed and he bowed his head as his symbiot Salmek took over. "It is Sekhmet. To prove her loyalty she has offered to rid the System Lords of SG1 and SG2."
"Sekhmet the slayer, eye of Ra." Daniel said. The others looked at him and he continued, "She was a giant lioness. According to myth she was sent by Ra to kill all the wicked men on Earth. But after tasting blood she couldn't stop and continued to kill every thing she saw. Ra tricked her by having beer mixed with red ochre. Then she became Hathor, the cow headed love goddess."
"Whoa wait. Hathor's dead. So shouldn't this seckment be dead too?" Jack questioned.
Jacob's eyes glowed briefly as he took back control. "Its Sekhmet Jack and no she's not dead. What Daniel said is the myth that was handed down by the ancient Egyptians. As far as the Goa'lud go that's not exactly how it happened. True Ra sent her to kill man and she found after a while she couldn't stop. Not wanting to lose all his slaves Ra tricked her and locked her away in a tomb on another planet. Apparently someone found her and released her."
"And now she's vowed to get rid of us. Just great." Lizzy said shaking her head. "First Elena's framed for doc Snider's murder now this. Please don't tell me any more bad news."
"That's why I came as soon as I heard about Elena. I was able to slip in during the last meeting of the System Lords. Sekhmet was there, but I couldn't get a good look at her. She wore a hood and concealed herself. She told them she would destroy you from the inside out."
"So you're saying that Dr. Snider was killed by Sekhmet?" Jonas asked.
"I believe so." Jacob replied.
"Great we'll just tell the lawyers a frelling snake killed the doc. They'll believe that alright." Kath said sarcastically.
Jack just shook his head and mumbled, "Oh for crying out loud."
"Well people we have to do something. What I'd like to know is how this Goa'lud got on the planet and how she got on base to get Elena's knife with out our knowing." Hammond said
"Sir its possible she didn't actually do it herself. She probably has a person that has access to the base working for her. If she was on base I would have been able to tell. Since my experience with Jolinar I have been able to sense when a Goa'lud or Tok'ra symbiot is present." Sam replied.
"So what do we do? I mean we have orders not to interfere with the investigation." Jonas inquired.
"We do what ever it takes." Kath replied. "Orders or no orders if a snake is behind this we have to find out who is working for her and stop them and Sekhmet."
Jacob nodded "I'll get you all the information I can. I have to speak with the Tok'ra high council about this. Maybe some of our other operatives have some information that could help."
Hammond stood and nodded. "In the mean time keep your eyes open. If someone was able to get on base to get Elena's knife chances are he or she is still around."
"Sir should we tell Elena about this?" Lizzy asked.
"I'd wait a while. At least until we're sure Sekhmet is behind this. At the moment it's just a suspicion. For now just tell her we may have a lead." Jacob said. "I'll return as soon as I get some more information."
"Thank you Jacob. SG1, SG2 dismissed." Hammond said before walking with Jacob to the gate room.