Reviewers LadyMo, dpdp, and Guest ... Thanks for your reviews and interesting comments … you all wanted more so here it is…. Enjoy:)
Also thanks to reviewer Adelled, who a while ago mentioned an idea about photos and their meaning to us all. It has been meditating in the background all this time and now surfaces in this chapter. Hope you like way it has turned out.
Schatzel8210 As always a huge thanks for reviews, chats, help and support through out the chapter and story.
Now back to Jack, who is in the Gate room.
Chapter 28 – Atlantis Gate Room
With the security officers stationed at the lower exit, his officer guide guarding the other entrance way, and the officer of the Day Watch at the computer station keeping an eye on him, Jack was sitting on the stairway in the Gate room writing out orders and suggestions for Cameron to do on his return to SGC. Some were every day things like checking out the cabin and ordering fresh food from Jack's favourite local store for his and Sam's return. Sussing out the town with or without the team from Midway so he could advise future teams where the off base interests are. That would include Bert's diner and hotel and need Hank's, their special NCIS team and possibly Phoenix Corp's input, for background checks. He added an extra note for the group as a whole – Story for site needs to cover air activity and a mixture of civilian and service people turning up with or without noticeable transport. Perhaps there might be a need for suitable short term car and bike hire firm, locally based or brought in and set up as appropriate.
As he finished that group, he went on to the more personal orders rather than suggestions because he couldn't do the visits himself without causing attention to them or himself. One was to collect certain things from his DC apartment and deliver them to his cabin, the list was not too bad and SGC's removal men would do the less personal things. The other visit was to his injured driver in DC to find out his thoughts for his future when he was back to full health, - whether to stay in DC and move onto another General, he would recommend him to Hank and make it a natural progression, but couldn't guarantee that would happen without fallout within the group of special drivers the belonged to. Or leave DC to make a new start elsewhere or stay in service and move to the Waterfall site, the last two would mean mean uprooting the family as well. He owed the man a lot and would standby him whatever he and his family chose to do, and with that thought added, Cam re driver in DC - possible owner or in partnership of local vehicle hire firm and be our secure driver at Waterfall site?
Knowing would Hank debrief Cam and read the information passed on by General Shepard, other things would be dealt with or discussed, and could come back to him for comments, Jack started to deal with the notes for Hank. Because there had already been close contact between Paul Davis and Hank, Jack officially confirmed there would be a controlled change over in leadership of Home World Security, Paul's change in rank and where the confidential files were for the details of it all. Along with the inevitable list of current jobs that needed finishing or updating, with a brief input about what action to take, knowing Paul didn't need too much detail to get them done. Also confirmed they would have a three way virtual meeting as soon as he was at the Cabin or was in Earth's orbit. Then he went on to the more immediate orders that Hank needed to physically pass on and were to be kept under wraps till DC announced it all, that of course would mean more questions than answers at this point, fired at Hank as he would be there in person but wouldn't be able to answer. That was the official written introduction and brief outline from Jack, as Head of Home World Security, to The George Hammond's leading Colonel regarding Colonel Cameron Mitchell's new position with the space craft that would link them both with the Waterfall Site. Along with new orders and introduction of Brigadier General Samantha Carter as the overall commander of both, once everything was in place.
Smiling as he wrote Sam's rank and name, Jack knew his next note to Hank had to be handled carefully, as the recent events on Atlantis have given him a way he might be able to safeguard the meeting in the future without it being linked back to any SG1 mission or himself. He thought it over and not wanting to write a long monologue, he decided a few words would do. So started 'Not to be eaten, but destroy once read. Need to know only.' Knowing that would get his friend's attention continued. 'See General Hammond's private notes re future of SGC as an open museum. In my personal safe in the mountain, you know the code.'
Hank would have questions, the main ones would still remain unanswered as George and SG1 never officially recorded the fact SG1 met up with Cassie in the future to get back to their own time and return home, they wanted her to keep in the shadows and safe. They just recorded the fact they'd managed to use the Gate to return at sometime in the future and didn't know when it was, that bit was true. When the television crew made their visit to SGC and filmed there so their stories could be told in the future, he and George had put forward the recommendation that the Stargate and SGC must be kept together so members of the public would have a solid base and know the interviews were not fake. Both knew written suggestion could always be over turned, and even being Head of World Security hadn't helped either of them in getting it firmed up into solid fact. Now he knew who could and would be able to do it and wrote. 'Get General Roberta Green on board, she is our link to DC and can start to take 'invisible' measures to make that solid foundation happen and safeguard the future.' He knew Cassie had been the only one who knew that visit would happen, now with Atlantis's help Jack reckoned she would find out the date and it would stay that way. Then immediately with a slight smile silently corrected himself, 'what was he thinking, Jon and their family would know, probably be watching from a distance… known as Atlantis.'
As he signed and sealed Hank's papers, then put them with the others into the special travelling pouch he would hand over to Cam very soon, Jack could feel the mental whispers and mixed emotions he'd put to the back of his mind in order to concentrate on that job, come back in force. With the whispers becoming louder, could even hear his name in them. Alert and recognising it as Ancient in origin, he immediately checked that all was quiet around him and his watchers wouldn't be alarmed at his actions or inaction and looked down as though he was thinking rather than writing as he'd been doing. Closing his eyes and relaxing his breathing, he turned his thoughts inwards to that deep silent meditation Teal'c had taught him, and in seconds he was back outside the mental door where he'd left the Ancient gene to sleep. The door was closed now and Teal'c's energy gift of support was sat on guard as promised, and looking up at Jack stated in his familiar calm stoic manner. "We have and will rest well O'Neill. It is Atlantis who needs your attention."
Knowing the Ancient Gene was safe and not the cause of his rising emotions or the whisper in the back of his mind, Jack nodded his thanks to Teal'c and started the return journey back to wakefulness and Atlantis. He did it slowly this time so he could regain control of his emotions and have a clear mind. Like everyone else he'd slept well, but his emotions and mind were still a bit like a roll-a-coaster ride was just waiting to get out of control. He knew the cause of his heightened emotions, he was sending his friends, old team or as Lya called them family, and they were family to him, anyway… a way. It was also true he had sent them out on missions before and those nerves emotions of doing it never got old, but could cope with it. This time they were not going as a team, they were going to their own jobs and lives and would have others to back them up in the future. Also he was moving on, not only with Sam but also heading the Waterfall Site before handing it over to her and then being Earth's Ambassador to the Universe. As Daniel liked to tease him in the past that 'he was top man and could do anything he pleased.' They all knew the last bit was not true, and he was still the same small cog in a wheel, only this time that wheel was so much bigger, and unlike the other times he would be on his own.
As a colonel at SGC, he'd been General Hammond's deputy where they'd become close friends, family even, so when George became head of Home World Security he'd stepped into his friends shoes at SGC, and did the same when George retired from Home World Security. They'd worked together and George was there to talk to advise him, now though his friend and mentor was gone, so he would be on his own, and suddenly felt and heard his friend's gentle words. "You are not alone, they are waiting for you. God Speed Son." Feeling those words calm his fears, he knew he could do this, he was already gathering together his friends and space family around him, and knew Atlantis was calling him and felt his mind take another step forward.
In that moment, Jack knew he was still sitting on the stairway with his eyes closed, and part of his still buzzing mind was reliving everything about his walk to the gate room. His noting and acknowledging the passing civilians and service personnel giving amore relaxed "Morning Sir" or "Thank you Sir", none of them expecting to stop and chat, just happy with his nod of greeting, as well as his own silent agreement of Shepard's earlier observations about the City. Especially as on his previous visits, Jack had always felt the City was like a cold empty new house you'd just arrived in and not sure how long you'd be there, as well as not knowing what was round the corner or who the true owner was. This morning though the corridors they walked along looked the same, they felt like a warm home you felt welcome in, a safe place to be in and to come back to from missions,along with interesting new towers to explore, with the help of a friendly computer guide.
While the other part of his mind was conscious of the fact he wouldn't admit this to John Shepard or anyone else, the usual background Ancient whispering buzz he always felt when in the City, was not only stronger this morning, but was giving sort of happy buzzing shouts for attention to him. At least they hadn't been parade ground shouts for attention done by the Drill Sergeant, that would have had him instantly standing to attention and looking round for the Sergeant to see where and why he was yelling. He could cope with these mental happy shouts. He was not going to admit either that the remnant the Ancient Child was still active within him and might not fully die away with time. He could cover these things up, and perhaps if he felt it right would admit it to Lya when they were alone. Knowing time was short, and his emotions regarding his 'team' family leaving Atlantis to go their different ways needed calming, he mentally fed out to that happy shouting buzz the gentle but firm command "Not yet." And had felt the happy shout of many voices gradually tuck away into the background so he could concentrate on writing those orders.
Now he'd finished those orders, he accepted the hint the memory or the happy whispering shout was giving him, and sent the gentle mental order. "It is time to meet your new family before I leave you. They will continue to look after you." Realising the whispers in his mind were the multitude of voices gathered by the City's Ancient programme, Jack added. "On the command through our computers. Your true voice and answers. Mind links like this will come later when they have adjusted to your abilities and the ones they've just received. General Shepard and Jon first, though you may need to adjust your programme when dealing with Rodney and his ego or racing mind."
The whispering voices answered easily and without any hesitation. "We know all your questions and you from your visit to our mind room, and thank you for the downloads and your time with us. We will enjoy the challenge Rodney presents and talking to the others of your wide space family. We know General Shepard very well and spoke to him briefly during the gift ceremony, and look forward to getting know Richard Woolsey. He does not have the gene, but will be able to access all our computers while in the City you call Atlantis and all the space craft. So will Lady Cassandra as she is life-mate of Master Jon O'Neill and has strong mental abilities of her own. For us to gather the information you need for the future and match it with what you have left with us for safe keeping, she needs to enter the mind room willingly and Master Jon should be close by, but not in the same room. It will only take a minute or two and be painless. We will carry out our mission to protect that family as necessary as you have ordered.
We do not emotionally feel as you and your families of Earth and space do, but due to our programmes we understand them completely. We have welcomed back and enjoyed the happiness that comes from your 'family' this waking time, and do not wish to return to the dark loneliness we felt when the ones you call the Ancients left us without the necessary support we needed. General Shepard and Lady Lya have promised this will not happen again, we trust them as we trust you.Now we will go and find our true voice and wait for your command and hope you will return to us in the future. You have given us our true future and interesting spacefamilieswho will care for us as we care for them. Those you need to see are waiting for you, NightOwl and U Sang will arrive soon, as will Elder Ohper, Lady Lya and family."
Knowing his time was up and feeling he was leaving a close friend, even if it was a computer City, Jack mentally smiled knowing because of the Waterfall site there would be close contact between them, and felt the whispering ripples twist through his mind as they gradually disappeared into the distance and then to silence. Immediately feeling the return of the familiar gentle background Ancient buzz, Jack knew it was time to get the last bit on the road and opened his eyes. Looking around the gate room to make sure everything was as it should be, he knew he had not been in this strange state for very long.
Glancing over to his silent companion guide of earlier, who was guarding the main entrance to the gate room he commanded. "Allow them in. Only Generals Shepard and Carter along with Richard Woolsey are to come to the computer station, the others are to remain silent and at the back of the room. NightOwl and U Sang will joins us soon so make sure they have a clear entrance, they can join us at the front."
Getting up and walking over to the computer station and the Officer of the Watch, but keeping a safe distance from both, Jack stated. "Let the Nox family joins us when they are ready, they will no doubt know where to walk through without knocking anyone over. I need you to type in my commands to Atlantis word for word. And, be ready to hit the cancel key or icon on the screen should I or General Shepard tell you to do so."
The Officer of the Watch who had been there the day before, could feel a buzz of excitement running through him and taking a breath to calm them, replied firmly. "Yes Sir." then added. "Lady Lya has heard your statement and is now requesting entrance."
Smiling at that, and seeing the others walk towards the computer station with the correct ones staying near the back, but not so far as to miss anything, Jack announced towards the Stargate. "Elder Ohper and Lady Lya, you and your family are welcome back to Atlantis. We will be ready to leave once we have introduced the computer of Atlantis to General Shepard and Mr Richard Woolsey."
Immediately there was a rippling in the air and Ohper, Lya along with Anteaus and Nafrayu, appeared to step out of thin air into the nearby area where they stayed in their group. They were close enough to talk to Jack without harming him or touching the energy gifts that were rippling with extra brightness, and soon settled down again as the energy tensions from the Nox's arrival disappeared. Those who'd not seen this before realised the Nox's travelling gate could be invisible and they were a happy family group, even Anteaus was smiling.
Seeing Ohper's silent nod, Lya bowed to Jack and still smiling said. "Master Jack, thank you for allowing us to witness this auspicious occasion. We bring good news, some for which we will wait for NightOwl and U Sang to arrive. Before they arrive, I wish to inform you that Mya and baby, who was born just after the gift ceremony have had their first sleep time together and are full of life and strength. She will be named when the family return to our home planet Gaia, I also ask that they join their life-mate Anteaus on the journey with Masters Daniel and Teal'c and Lady Vala so they can bond as a family. Also after my discussion with Master Landry and receiving the information of the craft Destiny, crew and planned course along with both our messages to the them, my life-mate on Gaia is putting together and will head the families and crafts that will set out to find Destiny."
With a grin and seeing both Vala and Sam smiling at the news, Jack said. "Congratulations Anteaus, Mya and her baby will be most welcome on the trip. I think it will keep Vala on her toes and out of mischief. As well as good experience for both Daniel and Teal'c." Ignoring mutterings from the two men and Vala's soft chuckle, Jack carried on. "Elder Ohper and Lady Lya we are very grateful for your and your life-mate's help in trying to find our space family on Destiny and look forward to hearing the progress reports. Before NightOwl arrives and regarding her flight and story of last night, should her request be answered by your family on Gaia and you need help, Atlantis will give any assistance necessary."
With a slight bow of respect and surprise, then a huge smile Lya exclaimed. "You understood her story and realise how careful we must be in talking about the subject." Seeing his nod she carried on. "We will accept an offer of help, I will explain when she comes. You have such dragons on your planet?"
"No. But in our mythology there is a fire bird that turns to ashes when necessary and returns out of their ashes when safe again. I believe yours and NightOwl dragon hatches their young in fire and you guard their secret with your lives. If we are to help we must talk to Atlantis." and started to turn his attention back to the Duty Officer.
But was interrupted by the loud owl hoot and flap of wings as NightOwl came into sight shortly followed by U Sang loping at great speed. She had hooted "I hope we are not too late to wish everyone good flights and fortune. I over slept as our ship is slowly taking energy and growing."
They both came to a halt in the gap between the two groups, and immediately upon landing NightOwl changed into her medium sized non-threatening tawny backed white fronted dragon self, and bowed to Jack and the Nox family, as U Sang, in his black with purple strips panther form, sat beside her and bowed slightly to them as well.
Being excited, happy and anxious NightOwl blurted out her request. "I hope you all slept well and Lady Lya you have an answer to my quest?"
Hearing Jack's immediate mental "Go ahead, we can bring Atlantis into the conversation when necessary." Lya nodded with a slight bow and started. "First of all, thank you from all the Nox family for the peaceful sleep time you gave us, and look forward to all the nights to come. We can give you good news of your dragon quest but have a problem. Our fire dragon can only come as far as Atlantis because we know where it is in this galaxy and the craft he will be in will not have enough power to carry on and return back to Gaia where he hopes his new dragon family will wish to live. If they wish to stay with their other dragon family he will do so as well. Master Jack has offered help in the matter of travelling and we assume you will be able to guide the craft to the right destination and introduce our dragon to the new mate so they can hatch the young and save them."
NightOwl, practically jumping with excitement while holding back her fire so it came out in wisps of smoke, exclaimed in dragon/owl grumble. "Our craft will not be ready for some time! But we will be in time if the craft offered is large and swift enough. I am sure there will be agreement from our dragon family to return to Gaia as our planet will be unable to sustain them for their life time. Elder Ohper and Lady Lya, we thank you for such a quick response." before asking in a more controlled manner. "Master Jack, is it possible for the City to do this, while keeping the family of Midway and the planet safe?"
From the whisperings in his mind, Jack knew Atlantis had already worked out what kind of craft was available from the information Lya had mentally given it as she'd spoken to NightOwl just now. As those whispers were getting agitated as things were going too slow for them, and not wanting the headache their agitation was threatening to produce, he glanced at NightOwl, and hoping to reassure the fearful but excited dragon said. "We will find out what the City has to offer."
Then immediately turning his attention back to the Duty Officer, Jack commanded. "Officer of the Day, type and enter the following orders into the computer. 'City of Atlantis. From the information Lady Lya has mentally passed to you, communicate verbally with General Jack O'Neill and this space family the type of transport needed for the dragon to travel to a planet in Pegasus Galaxy and return with the family to either here or to the planet Gaia. Transportation must allow for at least a pilot, a security unit, veterinary staff as well as NightOwl and U Sang be ready to leave within the next day or so.
Also, add shortcut icons to the computer interfaces so General Shepard, Mr Richard Woolsey and other personnel can communicate with you verbally if required, and keep visual, verbal and written records for the correct files within your systems.' End of orders."
Feeling Sam's mental gentle laugh at Rodney's squeak of disbelief in the background and the other quiet mutterings between the groups, Jack glanced towards them and seeing General Shepard's very excited expression stated, quietly but firmly. "The City is too big to assist in this matter. There are craft in the recently opened towers which will be suitable. You as joint leader with Richard will have to stay here to keep the City and Midway personnel as well as NightOwl and U Sang's craft safe, and I will be back on Earth so unable to assist."
Seeing John's immediate sigh and serious look at the reminder of his new added responsibilities, and before Jack could turn his attention to the person who could fill the post of pilot, the Duty officer, having finished putting in the orders looked up, and everyone's attention was immediately drawn to the Gate. The outer ring, though keeping still, was rippling a silver backed ribbon with large blue dots that started moving in circular rotation down to the bottom then round to the top On the second rotation it started to remind the watchers of the 'a programme is being loaded' pattern on a computer screen, that could be very frustrating if it went on too long. But on the Gate ...that ... was something totally different from usual.
Keeping totally still and a blank expression, Jack mentally chuckled the phrase, "Show off", and immediately got the familiar mental whispering chat back. "I need to show them I am thinking so they can adjust their thoughts and expectations. This is a familiar pattern to them all. You wanted me to do things slowly. This is slowly. I believe time is short if this mission is to be successful. As we are chatting, your mental command is required." With a mental sigh at that, Jack silently commanded. "Go on then." And the mental whispers disappeared with a very faint. "We will miss you. Son of Atlantis City." as they did so.
Immediately the familiar rotation stopped and became a thin static silver and blue glowing ribbon linking the unlit chevrons in the Gate ring, and a voice that was in middle vocal range, easy to listen to and understand, came from the base. It was nothing like the gentle multi toned whispers Jack heard in his mind, but it caught his and everyone's attention, and from Ohper and Lya smiles as they listened to the greeting, Jack knew this was the right one. "General O'Neill, space family of the City you call Atlantis and the Nox family. I am the voice of that City and built by the people you call the Ancients, and deserted by them because they forgot their true mission and their physical input would always be needed to keep the City functional. Unlike other information computers linked to this system there is no hologram. While on reserve energy this computer has been able to carry out the mission of protect life, gather information from those within, store it in what you call the mind room for future use and learn by the families' within interactions to each other and those they returned with from other planets.
"The need to reserve energy so the space family would survive in this city, meant Iwas unable to communicate in this manner or give extra assistance when needed to help rescue the space family or stop intruders entering this City.With the power units the Ancient child brought through the Gate, and the right input from the space family, this City computer and those connected with it will fulfil all duties to retrieveand retain information gathered internally, or from other planets via downloads or observations in situ. Will keep this City and space family safe as we travel through the seas of the Universe to carry out your future physical or scientific missions to learn and protect life as commanded.
"With the update the Ancient child downloaded as he passed through the Gate of Atlantis,I am as requested able to show on the forcefield screen within this Gate, the relevant space craft NightOwl of the Dragon Planet requires to carry out their mission."
Immediately there was a ripple of a white forcefield filling the centre of the Gate, which then showed the relevant space craft in 3D form, which slowly spun round to show all sides of the craft. As the Atlantis team watched they realised the craft looked similar to the space Jumper, but was much larger with living and storage quarters, as well as an empty space that could be utilized in many ways. Recognising it, Jack commented more to John than anyone else. "There is one in pieces at the Waterfall Site so a team can use this one here as a master copy and make our work easier."
As the screen rippled and disappeared, the Atlantis voice butted in. "What you call the Waterfall Site is a maintenance station with details and parts for all space craft ofthe travelling and the city type. Key in 265505 in the main computer on site and the maintenance crew from this City will be able to assist in completing the craft. The suggested personnel for the dragon mission has been logged to General Shepard's and Richard Woolsey's main computer for their information and confirmation and can then be dispatched to the relevant personnel information stations.Due to lack of information regarding the planet destination I am unable to plan the exact route and time to be taken so suggest emergency food packs be taken from your stores and those of NightOwl and U Sang's craft. Enough room should be left for the dragon's food. Elder Ohper of the Nox familymay wish to accompany the dragon on this mission.
"Records taken from NighOwl's and U Sang's craft or their memories of their journey can be transferred into the craft to determine relevant details of their past journey. It should be noted that craft is capable of protecting all humanoid and energy beings when going though what you call the Stargate and from hostile forces. Should it be required, there is another form of transporting the craft to other parts of the galaxy or Universeat speed.Details will be made available once the team are on board and destination is known.This craft has full power and is in working order. It is in tower 10 on level 9 with an exit straight into the atmosphere of this planet. It is suggested the commander of the craft should take it out for a spin before leaving on this mission, if they have not flown what you call an Ancient craft or Jumper before.
Finally. Quick access to verbal communication icon and explanation about use is now on top left hand corner of all computer screens through out the City. Once pressed, a blue spinning disc will appear in the top right hand cornerif the message cannot be taken and a suggestion of next available time given. The red spinning disc is for emergency use only and will cut through all other computer duties within this City and the ordered action will be taken immediately. This includes medical emergencies detected by what you call the nurses station in infirmary.End of message."
Smiling and feeling Sam's gentle mental laughter, Jack realised everyone now knew this computer was nothing like anything they'd used before, and couldn't help wondering if there was a similar one at the Waterfall site, and hoped it would be as friendly as this one. Before turning his attention back to the Stargate saying. "Thank you, voice of Atlantis. Stay on verbal standby, collating information as we discuss the matters in hand and we get ready to leave Atlantis. After we have left Atlantis, follow General Shepard's orders regarding storage or destroying records of these conversations and actions." The silver and blue ribbon flashed brightly before toning down and pulsating gentle in the background.
With a nod of acknowledgement, John Shepard quickly walked towards the Duty Officer's computer to check out the details already given, silently wondering if this was all real, especially with this very strange talking computer and felt a gentle reassuring familiar buzz in his mind, which though comforting was also weird. While the rest of the watching group near the entrance were also quietly talking and taking everything in, Elder Ohper was excitedly insisting to Lya, NightOwl and U Sang he was going to go on this mission so there was a familiar figure on board for the dragon. It wouldn't be a dangerous journey and they could bring back equipment needed to mend NightOwl's craft. And luckily got nods of agreement so he didn't have to insist on using his higher status in the family to stop Lya saying no.
That left Jon and Cassie who'd quietly left the group near the door and were walking determinedly towards Jack and Sam, who'd moved slightly nearer to Jack, as she could mentally feel whispers of his emotional state, and knew how she felt about leaving these two behind on Atlantis. Watching the couple and noting their deeper contentment since being on Atlantis and their huge smiles, though Cassie's was a bit tearful, no doubt after earlier chats and hugs of goodbye with Sam outside the Gate room, Jack could feel their mental excitement start to ripple through his natural fears of leaving the couple in Space rather than somewhere on Earth. Knew they would be in good hands with this Space family, especially after things he'd noticed that breakfast time now fall in place with his older memories of Cassie meeting them at SGC in her future and their past. And, instantly tossing the pros and cons of what was flashing through his mind, forcefully mentally, huffed to himself. "Oh Forcryingoutloud ! Of course you would do it!" as he came to his decision, to do it. Catching Jon's mental flicker of concern as the couple stopped because they were close enough to talk to him and Sam, Jack immediately used mental distraction/reassurance by flicking back to him. "We are okay and I like the new you. Follow my lead and trust me."
Not giving Jon a chance to throw a comment mentally or verbally back at him, Jack continued verbally. "Before you ask Jon, Cassie is not going with you. She is needed here. Your Ancient gene is strong enough for you to do this even though you've not flown this or any craft before. You'll need to fly it round the City to get a feel for it, pack and get to know your crew, all within the next hour or so." Feeling Jon's quick mental quip. "I know your tricks old man, but I'll follow your lead. Cassie needs to tell you something before you go."
With a slight smile and nod Jack answered out loud. "We need to do this first." and immediately started to confirm and explain what he needed Jon to do. "You trust and know our mind link." Knowing that was a statement not a question, and like everyone was wondering what was going to happen, Jon nodded and waited in silence as Jack carried on. "I need you on the count of three to close your eyes and open that link. Through it Shepard and I will mind flash our experiences of flying a Jumper. You will be able to control the craft verbally and mental as well as accessing the information we give you. The Atlantis computer has already linked with the computer on board to make sure you will have fast input to all information needed as soon as you enter the craft."
Controlling that ripple of excitement and knowing how much they trusted each in and out of their unique link, Jon immediately took a breath. Then letting it out slowly, calming that excitement and himself, he nodded his acceptance before gently giving Jack the required mind nudge to start the connection. Knowing Jack would complete the process when ready.
Feeling the mind nudge and welcoming it in the usual way, Jack carried on verbally. "Cassie, step away from him. But, be ready to help him if he falls."
Trusting Jack completely, Cassie nodded and controlling her emotions she stepped away from Jon and noted Ohper and Lya were paying close attention to what was happening as was John Shepard who'd obviously caught the conversation or tension she could feel rising around them.
Looking over at John, Jack gave him a gentle mind nudge without the full connections so the man recognised what it was, feeling John's tentative acceptance of it Jack mentally secured it and verbally explained. "I need you to clear your mind and think of actually flying the Jumper while accepting my mental voice on 3."
Mentally feeling her support Jack added vocally. "Lya" She called out immediately "Ready and will count to three with you." then clapped her hands as she secured the mind linked with Jack. They counted to three together and the group closed their eyes. Lya then expertly guided John and Jack's mind flashes into Jon's mind, sorting them out and tucking them at the back of Jon's mind so they would integrate into his true memories without harming him, as well as other information Jon might need for the journey and the future. Knowing Jack expected her to do so.
Not surprisingly the room was silent and the watchers hardly breathing, definitely not moving as they waited the short time it was happening. Then they relaxed as the group gave little shakes of their heads, opened their eyes and registered where they were and nothing had physically changed during the process.
Glancing at Jon and John and seeing Lya give a nod to indicate everything was alright, Jack immediately turned his attention back to the two men and verbally checked. "You both alright?" Knowing his voice would ground the two men, reassure the watchers Sam and Cassie in particular as they'd both seen the way Jack and Jon could link in the past.
Adjusting to the buzz they'd got from the experience, Jon and John nodded they were and looking at each other, Jon exclaimed with a smile. "That was quite an experience, thanks for the information." His links with Jack had always been quiet being one to one, a four way link was a bit like opening and pouring out a fizzy drink, lots of soft bubbles along with the liquid and then calm.
Registering the new experience and enjoying the ride of Lya's voice as he felt her gently guide the information Jon needed and gave him other reassurances and other information, John gave a heartfelt sigh saying softly."You are not kidding." glancing at Lya and then Jack, he asked. "Is that what happened during the gift ceremony when I heard a whisper that seemed to be Atlantis?"
Jack answered immediately. "Yes. Your strong Ancient gene enables you to mind link with the computer of Atlantis. Lya was shielding us because it takes energy from you and concentration away from what you are doing and what is going on around you. If you need to do it make sure you have someone to watch over you and should only be done when you are in the City or Ancient space craft and totally safe. Broken mind links are damaging to both parties and dangerous. The usual mental conversations are less taxing but don't over do those either, best way of communication is through the computer stations and keep conversations or mind flashes for emergencies only. "
They were immediately interrupted by the Stargate ring flashing and the computer voice stating. "I wish to confirm the words of General O'Neill ... that conversations should be through a computer unit on Space craft or in this City to safeguard yourself and Master Jon O'Neill. Especially while you master the ability of mind talking. Information on how this ability willbe activated and used safely has been sent to both your personal information terminals and will answer any questions you may have."
Hiding his smile as he reckoned Atlantis was going to enjoy conversations with the physical Atlantis family in the future, Jack turned his attentions to Cassie, and realised Sam who'd kept in the background till now was beside her. Giving her reassurance perhaps, which would be good considering what he needed her to do and said quietly. "I need a favour from you Cassie." and raising his voice he carried on. "And for everyone here to remember this is on a need to know bases, and kept within our future close blood families. But no one else."
A ripple of anticipation ran round the room as the Nox's privacy forcefield appeared and sealed the room. Immediately turning to Lya, Jack checked. "I trust Atlantis computer is not shut out of your privacy shield?"
Without any hesitation but with a slight smile Lya answered. "The voice of Atlantis is within the shield and can react to orders. Nothing will be recorded unless you mentally or verbally order it."
With a nod of acceptance Jack asked her. "Your twig communicators can they be attached to material so they look like an ordinary broach or clasp that wouldn't attract undue attention when worn, and can still transmit or receive information without giving away what it was doing?"
Though intrigued by the question, Lya answered immediately. "The twig communicators can be less obvious and work without being detected by anyone or machine nearby. They can be secured to any surface, even someone's skin if needs be. The owner covers the communicator with their hand while placing it onto the surface they wish to attach it to and think it about it staying there." she paused for a brief second before adding. "Command it rather than asking it. To remove it, they do the same but think about removing it. Only the owner can do this process, in any form it will send out a silent alarm if it is taken by the wrong person."
Taking a breath and wondering in which order to do things, Jack decided to check out his thoughts first by asking. "Could it leave an unconscious impression in someone's mind?"
More puzzled Lya answered slowly. "Yes, the owner could order it to do so. May I ask why?
With a nod Jack explained. "This morning John Shepard used the twig communicator when we talked with General Landry, it wasn't till I saw Cassie walking towards me that I realised what I caught a glimpse of on her clothing in the future, when she helped us to return to our proper time in the past. Atlantis has the details of my memories of that visit so it can check it out and she should wear it again so we know the link is complete. Didn't know all this at the time of course, there was no obvious welcoming committee so the knowledge was kept tight and should be the same now and in the future, hence my warning." Over the gasps around the room from those who took part in the mission and those who didn't, Jack added with a slight smile. "I have a feeling our future families will be watching from Atlantis at a safe distance, even the Nox family, Lya."
Seeing her nod of understanding, that so much depended on it they were likely to be there to make sure SG1 returned to their own time should things have gone wrong. Jack turned his attention to the couple who were smiling and itching with questions and got in first, saying. "Cassie, I need you to enter the mind room so Atlantis can work out when the meeting will take place, I doubt it will be accurate to the day or hour so you will have to wait it out. Also, Jon, you can not enter the room or be in the corridor while Cassie is in there." glancing over to the other group he finished. "Tela will you watch over her?"
Without any hesitation already knowing she liked Cassie, Tela called across the room. "I will be honoured to do it. General."
Jon and Cassie turned towards her, smiled and nodded their thanks, before turning their attention back to Jack, and full of excitement Cassie exclaimed. "I will Uncle Jack! And I know what I want to do while I'm here on Atlantis. Last night I dreamt I returned to my home planet and saw my parents in the doorway of our home, all was well. We chatted and they told me how proud they were and their continued love for me. They were people of the earth, knew and loved plants and I know now I have inherited that love and knowledge and want to join the team who will explore the agricultural area found here in the City. Also from what I learnt from Janet I can help out if anyone is injured, it will combine my two lives and families, and help others as my SG1 family does." and stopped as she'd run out of words and was surprised by the tears running down her cheeks, which she tried to wipe away.
Hearing her and seeing Jon and Sam reassure Cassie, Jack became Uncle rather than General in charge and said gently. "I agree with you. You've always loved plants and been enjoying the courses you've taken while Sam's been on Atlantis." and paused as an idea came to him, then continued. "You shall not forget your parents or your home. Go into the mind room today and remember that dream." Seeing what Jon held in his hands and knowing their parting should be soon, he glanced away from the couple and checked. "Voice of Atlantis is it possible to take Cassie's dream memories of her parents, and with Rodney McKay's help produce either digital or on paper photos so she has them and her future family can see them?"
Ignoring the gasps round the room, Jack turned to Jon and feeling through their unique connections the emotions regarding the film Jon held, as well as their parting, he said gently but firmly. "We both know those moments we shared and shown on that film are precious to us and can never come to Earth or fall into the wrong hands. I have those memories stored in my Ancient memory and can recall them as I wish, they will never fade. The film is yours to keep safe here on Atlantis and perhaps be seen by your adult children when the danger to us and the ones we love is passed." Seeing and feeling Jon's understanding of those words, and feeling that familiar closeness and gentle ripples of emotions of their leaving and what it meant to both of both, Jack confirmed verbally. "Like Cassie it would be nice for you to have family photos. If it is possible to make photos and alter them if necessary, go to the mind room with your own memories or show the film to Atlantis. If not then you have the film, along with your own and our shared memories of those precious moments with Tealc's and the Ancient child. … our moment of childhood."
The words were hardly finished when the Gate ring flashed and the voice of Atlantis announced. "With help of our Space family in the City we shall make photos for both Lady Cassandra and Master Jon."
With a sigh knowing time had come, and to settle his emotions Jack took a breath and said to the couple. "Though you can not go with him Cassie, both of you should go and find the craft before NightOwl explodes or flames with excitement and we all get wet." Seeing them smile and NightOwl was indeed having trouble standing still, he added softly to Cassie. "As we can't hug goodbye, hug Sam then go with my blessing."
With a nod Cassie and Sam hugged, quickly but warmly and with quiet words of support and agreement they would keep in touch somehow, before releasing each other. Sam gave a nod and smile to Jon knowing how much this was affecting him and watched the couple hold hands as they turned to walk away.
As Cassie and Jon got near the entrance archway, the privacy forcefield lifted, Teal'c sensing his warrior brother's emotional mood dipping, announced in his familiar manner. "O'Neill, this is not a true farewell as Lady Cassandra, Masters Jon and Cameron are family and invited to the birthing ceremony. Therefore, I, Teal'c of the Jaffa Council command Atlantis, General Shepard and Lady Lya of the Nox family to make sure they are able to attend.
That lifted the mood with smiles all round as everyone knew no one would disobey Teal'c's official order. The smiles widened as the voice of Atlantis immediately answered. "Master Teal'c of the Jaffa Council. General Shepard. The City of Atlantis and the Nox family will be honouredto obey that command."
Smiling, Lya nodded her acceptance of the command then said. "Lady Cassandra and Master Jon I will demonstrate all the workings of the twig communicators upon my return from Earth.
Seeing Jon and Cassie hesitate in the archway and were still holding hands, so they would get a mental nudge aimed at Jon, Jack sent it. "Go! you have an important mission to lead and good back up for the future. We can keep in touch. NightOwl is nearly exploding with impatient energy and I don't want to get wet or have a wet U Sang nearby when Atlantis puts out the flames!"
With a soft laugh and slight cough to clear the lump in his throat, Jon nodded his acceptance and glancing at Cassie said. "We need to go." and as they walked through the archway he added loudly. "Stay safe Old Man!"
As Jack smiled at that familiar retort, NightOwl exclaimed "We must fly Master Jack, we need to see this craft and get ourselves ready for the flight. We will meet again." then flipped into hovering flight and her larger dragon form and U Sang purred to them all. "We thank you for your help and trust. As NightOwl says we will return. If our craft is ready we will take you to the birthing ceremony or just visit Earth." Then crouching in pouncing mode, he leapt into the air aiming for NightOwl's back and flipping into his humanoid form so he landed on her back and tucked expertly into the flying pouch, then they flew through the archway and out the way NightOwl had brought the Ancient child in.
It was over in moments and Jack still taking it in, had to ask. "Voice of Atlantis. Do they know where they are going?"
"They do, I have lit the tower up in orange and the flight door in green, which is open so they can enter safely. Master Jon and Lady Cassie are on the express route marked for them and will arrive shortly. Elder Ohper it is safe for you to use the Nox personal travelling forcefield if you wish to join them."
With a smile and a chuckle Ohper looked at Lya who nodded and sighed, and with a flourish and smile he raised his hands above his head, making that familiar circle and clapping his hands together disappeared.
Looking at the empty space Lya said with a sigh. "He is going to be impossible to live with till he goes." Glancing at Jack she added softly but firmly. "I suggest we move on." and waited for his nod of acceptance, knowing what all of this was costing him.
Oxoxo
We will leave them there for the moment or two. Okay till real life and the characters left behind sort themselves out and get ready to move on.
Thank you for reading and hoped you enjoyed the ride.
As always comments and thoughts are welcome. Most of all stay safe and enjoy yourselves.
