Title: Affairs of the Heart
Author: Anaika Skywalker
Rating: R
Disclaimer: Don't own it, wish I did, I just like to play with them once and a while. I'll put them back when I'm finished. I promise.
Thanks to: Winjan, sexyirishBeep, MsJonyReb, Shal Valentine,
Affairs of the HeartChapter Three: Here, there be dragons
PXC - 81799"Run!" Daniel yelled, he grabbed hold of Ceri's vest and forced her along with him, she stumbled as she changed direction but his quick reflexes kept her from falling and she soon regain her footing keeping up with him. Behind them a twenty or thirty Jaffa were catching up, staff weapons firing all around them.
"Dial the Gate!" She yelled into the radio attached to the front of her vest.
"What's wrong, Ceri?" Jack O'Neill's voice came through clearly over her earpiece.
"For God sakes, Jack, just open the god damn Gate!" Daniel swore into his radio, his voice a little anguish. "There are Jaffa on our backsides that aren't happy to see us!"
"Well why didn't you say so!" Jack's reply was snappy but concerned. "How far are you?"
"Coming over the ridge now!" Ceri informed. The Stargate came into sight, seeing it open gave hope they were going to make it. "Go, we'll follow!" Daniel told them. He saw Jack order Harm and Sam through as he and Teal'c started laying down cover fire, the Naval Officer and 2IC reluctantly doing so. Daniel heard Ceri scream, not only out loud but in his mind too, her body falling, wrenching his arm since he was still holding onto her vest. A staff blast had hit her just below his hand. "Noooo!" He shouted and felt the same burning pain as she had, smack into his back pushing him to the ground with her. The last thing he saw before darkness took him was her face, eyes closed.
"Nooo!" Jack scrambled to his feet, but wasn't even up right when a staff blast caught him in the chest, sending him flying backwards. Teal'c grabbed him by the back of the vest and hauled him through the Stargate unconscious and bleeding. The two of them tossed out onto the ramp inside of Cheyenne Mountain, the Gate closing down. Medical staff rushed up the ramp, stabilizing the Colonel before rushing him to the infirmary on a stretcher.
Confused and concerned, Harm looked to the Jaffa for answers. "What happened?"
"Daniel Jackson and Ceri O'Neill were hit by staff weapons," the brawly Jaffa revealed. "Colonel O'Neill stood and was hit himself. I believe your sister and Dr. Jackson are both dead."
Feeling like he'd just been punched in the stomach, Harm stumbled back running into Sam, who had over heard everything. "I don't believe that."
"Neither to I," she agreed, tears in her eyes. "I won't believe that." She saw Harm head down the ramp, going after him. "Where are you going?"
"To talk to the General. We have to go back."
She nodded and went with him, the two of them running all the way to the briefing room.
Hammond was coming out of his office, having received a report from Dr. Frasier. "They've taken Colonel O'Neill into surgery."
"General we have to go back." Harm stated. "Ceri and Daniel are still alive."
"You don't know that, I'm sorry Commander, request denied."
"You're giving up on them?" The Naval officer asked stunned.
"General you can't." Sam insisted.
"I'm sorry, but I can't send you back." Hammond said calmly. "We'll send a probe to determine what the situation is," the General announced. "Then I'll make a decision."
"Damn it General, you can't leave them in the hands of the Goa'uld!" Sam snapped angrily.
"They could be dead for all we know, Major." Hammond painfully stated the obvious.
"They're not!" Harm yelled.
Hammond had enough. "Stand down Commander, Major. You are not returning to PXC 81799, until we have the data from the probe. As of this moment Dr. Jackson and Dr. O'Neill are MIA, possible KIA. Dr. Frasier is waiting for you. Dismissed!"
Sam couldn't believe this, she turned quickly slamming into Harm, who grabbed her and she clung to him, sobbing as he held her.
The General turned and headed back to his office, not showing the pain he felt at having to say those words, no commanding officer liked having to declare someone MIA or KIA.
Harm gently rubbed Sam's back. "We have to get to the infirmary and be with Jack," he said aimlessly.
She nodded. "I don't want to lose him, Harm."
"You won't," he assured. "Come on." He took her hand and dragged her along with him. They stopped only once on their way, at the armory to get ride of their weapons, then hurried to the infirmary.
Janet was waiting for them. "Commander, Major."
"Janet, has there been any word on Jack?" Sam asked aguishly.
"He's in surgery and will be for some time," she said calmly, word had filtered down about the two missing members of SG-1. Teal'c had confirmed it when he'd come in. "I'm sorry."
"They're not dead, doc," Harm stated, reading her thoughts. "I won't believe my sister or Daniel is."
"I pray they're not, Commander," she said solemnly. "Lets get these physical's over with." They agreed and she did complete a physical on both on them, declaring them okay. "There's nothing you can do for now, why don't you shower and see what the probe has sent back. I'll keep you informed about Colonel O'Neill."
Sam didn't want to leave, but she saw sense in Janet's reasoning. Nodding wordlessly she walked out, Harm following her. They went to the locker room, took showers, dressed, all without thinking. Then headed for the control room. What they saw on the monitor shocked them both, Jaffa was standing ready to fire on anything that came out, other then the probe. Two more dumped the seemly lifeless bodies of Jackson and O'Neill on the ground before the Stargate.
"Oh god," Sam exclaimed.
Harm stared at the screen, moving closer, keeping his eyes on the screen, there was slight movement from both bodies. "They're alive."
Sam pushed to his side. "Then we need to go back."
She just finished saying it when the probe was hit and exploded, ending the signal. The Gate closed down automatically, having started open it's allotted time.
George Hammond hated what he had to say next, turning to the two officers. "I'm sorry Commander, Major, but I'm not authorizing a mission to PXC 81799. Dr. Jackson and Dr. O'Neill are clearly in the hands of the Goa'uld, which means one of two things. They will die or become hosts, I'm sorry. It's just too dangerous."
Harm grabbed Sam as she crumbled, the normally solid Air Force officer felt the air had been sucked from her lungs. "General, please!" He pleaded for her, for them both.
Hammond shook his head. "No, Commander." He said, then turned and left.
Harm guided Sam out of the control room and back to the infirmary, they found an empty exam bed and sat down, waiting. In his heart he knew Ceri wasn't going to end up dead or a host.
'I hope you're right, Harm.' Nitara said to him.
'So am I.'
They sat there for two hours, Teal'c joining them as they waited. It was going on three hours when Dr. Warner came in with Janet, all three stood.
Warner looked tired and doubtful. "Colonel O'Neill is alive for the moment, we have him on a respirator to help him breath, one of his lungs collapsed, we had to repair the damage done before we could re-inflate it. It's going to be touch and go for the next few days."
"Can we see him?" Sam asked stunned.
He glanced at Janet, seeing the expression on her face. SG-1 was known for never leaving a team member when they were injured in the infirmary. He nodded. "All right, for a few minutes."
They followed both doctors to ICU, being aloud in.
"Oh God," Sam exclaimed, not expecting what she saw.
Harm put his arm around her. "He'll be all right, Sam." He took her closer and sat her down on a stool near the bed.
Jack's skin was grayish, the respirator helping him to breath, his chest heavily bandaged.
'I could help him if I had a healing device.' Nitara stated. 'Give me control?'
Harm's eyes closed; when he reopened them Nitara addressed the doctors. "Dr. Frasier, I can help Colonel O'Neill. Do you have a Goa'uld healing device?"
Sam looked up, wiping her eyes. "We do."
"Are you sure you can help him?" Janet asked.
"Yes"
Sam rushed out of the room, returning a few minutes later with the device. Giving it to Nitara, who took it and stood before Jack. Standing back with Janet and Warner, Sam watched as a yellow glow was emitted from the device that was moved above the damaged body of Jack O'Neill. Nitara worked tirelessly, until she could do no more and Harm's body was growing tired; it was the first time he'd ever done something like this. She gave back control and he crumbled.
Warner and Teal'c grabbed the Commander before he could fall, getting him onto a stool. On the bed, Jack started to cough and fight against the respirator.
"Stay with the Commander," Janet ordered Sam and the Jaffa, as she and Warner rushed to help Jack.
Harm removed the healing device from his hand. "Nitara did all she could, it's up to Jack now."
"Thank you," Sam said and hugged him. "Thank you to Nitara too."
The two doctors removed the tub from Jack's throat, taking him off the respirator, letting him breath comfortable on his own. Hesitantly Janet carefully removed the dressing from the Colonel's chest, finding the skin beneath it healed, even the stitches were gone. She covered the Colonel with the sheet. "Now we wait," she looked to Harm. "Can you contact the Colonel, like Ceri did with you, let him know we're all here and that he's safe?"
"I can try," he offered and put his hand on Jack's forehead closing his eyes. Jack, he waited, and then tried again. Jack?
Harm? The Colonel sounded tired even in his friends mind.
It's me Jack, Nitara has healed you with the Goa'uld healing device as much as she could. You're going to be fine.
What about Ceri and Daniel? Jack asked him.
General Hammond has declared them MIA and under Goa'uld control, Harm revealed. I'm sorry Jack. There was a pause, and Harm sensed grief, it welled with his own. Jack?
I'm so tired.
You're going to be fine, Jack. Sam and Teal'c are here, we won't leave you alone, and one of us will be here at all times. Rest, we'll be here when you wake. He opened his eyes, but didn't remove his hand. "He's going to give up if we don't do something."
"What can we do?" Sam asked frantically.
"Stay with him, keep the link going, keep reassuring him." Harm declared and saw Janet nod in agreement.
"Then we shell," Teal'c stated and their visual stated.
Back on PXC - 81799It occurred to Daniel he didn't feel any pain, the ground was not cold or hard, he couldn't smell burnt clothing or skin, nor dirt or grass.
Hesitant to open his eyes he did so anyway. He was lying on a bed, a rather large bed and by the arm that was draped over him he was not alone. A sheet was pulled up to his waist, a soft body spooned up against him, and very much female from what he could feel by the skin-to-skin contact. Contact? It was then he realized he was naked beneath the sheet that covered him.
Turning slowly over, his companion moaned, he was relieved to fine it was Ceri. Her hair was lose, there was no sign of what they'd both experienced on either of them.
"Ceri," he gave her a gentle shake. "Ceri, sweetheart, wake up."
She did, blinking groggily at him. "Daniel? What happened? Where are we?"
"I'm not sure. For a while there I thought we'd died," he answered.
"So did I," she realized something else. "Where are our clothes?"
"They were removed," a voice said quite calmly.
Both sat up in a hurry, Ceri tucking part of the sheet around her body, noticing the man dressed in browns and greens by the door. He was tall, had the build of a warrior, short shaggy black hair and brown eyes.
He smiled and moved further into the room, bowing. "Good morning, Princess, I trust you and your consort are now well?"
"Yes. What happened? We were being chased by Jaffa?" She asked confused. Not over looking the fact he'd called her by her title.
"And we were dead." Daniel added.
"We healed your injures, they were serious, but not beyond our capabilities," the man announced. "I'm an Chawn, please dress and I'll explain more. Clothing has been provided for you both." He bowed again and stepped out of the room.
"He called you Princess," Daniel stated.
"And you my consort," she supplied.
"Yes, I noted that."
She wiggled around, letting the sheet drop, facing him. "I sense no deception from him, yet there's something else. He's guarded and he knows I'm Tallisian, he knows you're my consort."
"Wait, now your calling me your consort?"
Ceri smiled and pushed him back against the bed, straddling him. "Because you are my love, you have my telepathic imprint, by Tallisian law, you are my consort. My husband, my lover," she said with a sexy purr.
"Is that so, by Ambrosian law I'm your husband too, must be true then," he said, and then kissed her, a long deep passionate kiss. Drawing her down to him, wrapping his arms around her. "We are going to finish this," he promised, knowing they needed answers first.
"I intent to make sure you do so," she mused and got up.
Getting up they dressed in the clothing supplied, like Chawn's, a mixture of browns and greens. The material was a soft, light fabric. The boots they pulled on were made from something similar to leather.
Ceri braided her hair, turning to Daniel. "Ready?"
"Yeah, lets go find out what's going on," he found his glasses on a small table near the bed and put them on. Then he took her hand, seeing her smile. "Well as your consort, I find it my duty to hold your hand."
She giggled. "I believe it is your right," she said and they left the room together.
Chawn nodded to them. "This way your highness, my lord," he said, gesturing for them to follow.
They did. "Chawn, have we left the planet?" Daniel asked him.
"No, we are still on Tarlinga. We are high within the protection of the tress. This keep has protected the Cha'tar for centuries."
"Cha'tar," Ceri repeated.
"Yes," he smiled.
She felt Daniel squeeze her hand, she explained telepathically. Cha'tar means dragon riders, centuries ago, a colony of Tallisian's set out to explore the galaxy for a new location for the Cha. They were known as the Cha'tar, the Goa'uld feared them, but they supposedly disappeared and myth took over.
They don't look Tallisian? Daniel noted.If they've been on this planet for centuries, then interbreeding with the local population would have eventually breed out the Tallisian genes." She theorized.
The Goa'uld could have populated this planet with humans from Earth, over the years the human genes became dominate, he agreed. Then asked aloud. "Chawn, did you find anything with us? Devices? Weapons?"
"No, we found you injured and brought you back to our community and healed you," their host answered.
Without the GDO we can't dial home. Ceri stated.
We'll think of something. Daniel said a little confused, he had his GDO strapped to his forearm. "Are you sure there was nothing?"
"I'm positive my lord." Chawn insisted and led them into a large meeting room, it was open and large windows showed they were indeed within the tops of the trees.
Their dilemma was momentarily forgotten by what they saw. "Oh my god," Ceri exclaimed walking over to one of the windows.
Daniel was just as astounded. "How do these structures remain within the trees?" He asked their host as he stood beside Ceri.
"These structures, as you call them, are grown into the trees, they are in essence a part of the tree." Chawn explained.
"Wow!"
"Please, your highness, my lord, if you would," their host gestured to chairs around the meeting table. They sat; Ceri had the head of the table, on Chawn's assistance, Daniel to her right. Six Tarlingan's entered, four men and two women. They bowed, and then sat, around the table, as did Chawn. He introduced them. "Your highness, my Lord, these are the Senior Riders of our keep," he gestured to them starting at the two women. "Taren, Disa, Darian, Janus, Trey and Zenos."
Taren was a woman in her forties, her dark blond hair was pulled back into a bun, and she had startling blue eyes. "We welcome you in the name of the Cha'tar."
Ceri bowed her head slightly. "Thank you," she said warmly sensing shielded minds, not that she would have probed them without provocation.
"Your highness," Darian was speaking. "I'm sure you have a number of questions. We'll try and answer them."
"How do you know who she is?" Daniel asked before Ceri could.
"My lord," the Tarlingan smiled. "The Princess is of the Royal House of Tallisian, she has the royal birthmark."
"That didn't answer my consort's question, how do you know who I am?" Ceri counter asked.
Trey answered her. "We used the Chappa'ai to travel to Tallisian, we were expecting you. We had thought you would have come sooner though."
Daniel glanced at Ceri. I don't think they realize Tallisian was wiped out.
Neither do I. She sent back. Addressing the Tarlingan. "How long have you been waiting?"
"Two years."
She felt her hand being squeezed. "Tallisian was wiped by the Goa'uld twenty-two months ago, the planet is uninhabitable."
The Senior Riders were shocked. "Then how did you survive?" Zenos inquired.
"I was on Earth, the planet of the Tau're. I've lived there ever since," she explained. Noting. "Our friends will be looking for my consort and I."
"The ones who left you at the hands of the Goa'uld?" Disa stated bluntly.
"They did what they thought was right," Daniel declared and saw them glance at each other. "What?"
"One of your friends was hit by a staff weapon, his friend, the Jaffa dragged him through the Chappa'ai," Janus stated. "I'm sorry to report they didn't not return so we waited until the right time and then we rescued you, bring you here and healed you both."
Ceri had heard enough, her heart pounded in fear as she stood, a little too quickly and the room started to feel like it was spinning. Daniel grabbed her before she could fall, sitting her back down. "I don't think I'll be doing that again," she exclaimed, as her lightheadedness passed.
Daniel glared at Chawn. "What did you do?"
"We did nothing," Taren answered, slightly amused. "Lightheadedness is a common occurrence for someone in her condition."
"My condition?" Ceri questioned.
"Yes, your pregnancy," the Tarlingan woman said, seeing their stunned looks. "You did not know?"
"No," she answered, standing more slowly this time, she walked over to the windows, standing with her hands on her stomach. A child, her's and Daniel's child, she was carrying his child. Oh god, they were stuck on the planet and she was pregnant.
"Ceri," he came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her, his fingers entwined with hers. "Are you all right?"
"I didn't know," she said a little be willed and a little frightened. "I truly didn't know."
"It's okay," he drew her closer, not wanting to let her go. He was as astounded, frightened, excited and so much more, as she was. He stayed positive though. "Jack's going to kill me when we get back, you know that, so is Harm."
She giggled out of nervousness and grief that they may not get back, leaning back against him, keeping her voice low like he was to keep their conversation private. "He won't kill his grandchild's father," she said. "Dad will yell, maybe throw something, but he won't hurt you."
"And Harm?"
"Harm already thinks of you as a little brother, you're safe."
"Your highness," Taren approached. "Perhaps you should rest."
"She's right Ceri," Daniel declared protectively.
"I'm fine, really," she assured, turning to face him. "There's so much I want to know, I'll sit down, I promise. No more jumping up."
He gave in. "All right, a few minutes more."
"Thank you, Daniel," she put a hand to his cheek and then kissed him lightly on the lips. They returned to their seats.
"I'll arrange for you to see our healer," Chawn announced, he bowed and went from the room.
"How many Cha, do you have on Tarlinga?" Ceri asked the remaining riders, taking her mind off the problem.
"A hundred in our keep alone," Disa revealed. "There are other keeps within the forest."
Daniel was putting it all together, Cha meant Dragon. "You're saying you actually ride dragons?"
The riders found that amusing. "We are Cha'tar – the dragon riders." Zenos stated.
Ceri took Daniel's hand in her's, explaining. "Centuries ago, the Cha'tar left Tallisia, with them they took the last of the Cha, to find a planet where they would once again be able to breed and become strong."
"We found Tarlinga," Darian continued. "The people who were already here welcomed us with open arms, we dealt with the Goa'uld and gave them their freedom. As the centuries passed, our people became one, however some abilities were lost over these centuries. Now those who have the ability to communicate telepathically become dragon riders, some even take spiral paths or become healers."
"Why didn't you keep in contact with Tallisia?"
"Our ancestors forbid travel through the Chappa'ai," Trey revealed. "It was only the new council of Senior Riders who agreed to seek out our ancestors on Tallisia."
"Aren't you a little worried about the Goa'uld coming back here, now that they know you're not just myth but real?" Daniel stated the obvious.
"It is the fact we are now real that will keep the Goa'uld away from Tarlinga." Trey informed, then declared. "You have a question through you've wished to ask since the mention of the Cha. Please ask it my lord."
The statement didn't surprise Daniel, he asked his question, a little more eagerly then he wanted too. "Can we see the Cha?"
The Tarlingan smiled at his enthusiasm. "Of course."
Standing, Ceri and Daniel followed the Senior Riders from the meeting room, being led into the Dragon's hollow. They were both amazed by the sight of the dark brown dragons, guessing with wings spread the beasts would be a large if not slightly larger then a commercial airliner.
Daniel was speechless, after all he'd seen and witnessed traveling through the Stargate, here he was looking at real dragons.
One in particular lumbered over to them, this one had speaks of red mixed with through it's brown hide.
"Her name is Sha'lina, she is my mount," Trey said proudly. He gestured them closer, before addressing the dragon. "Sha'lina, this is her royal highness, Princess Ceri and her consort, Lord Daniel."
The large beast managed a graceful bow. 'I am honored you are both well, we were worried,' the dragon told them telepathically. 'Especially when Jar'lan and I discovered you were with child, Princess.'
"Jar'lin is Disa's mount, he is Sha'lina's mate, as Disa is my wife," Trey explained. "Dragon's are sensitive to life, which is how they knew you were pregnant, your highness."
Ceri slowly reached out and touched Sha'lina's muzzle. "There haven't been Cha on Tallisian for centuries, they had become part of myth."
Daniel also stroked the dragon's muzzle. "We owe you our thanks, Sha'lina," he said with a smile, still amazed by it.
'I, nor any of my clan could let you or your Princess die, Lord Daniel,' the dragon said. The other dragon's cooed in agreement.
Daniel chuckled, a little embarrassed by the title. "Daniel will do and thank you."
'I am honored.'
"We owe you our lives," Ceri agreed.
'Which we did willingly, your highness.'
"Ceri," she told her. "We're friends now."
The dragon bowed, and then nuzzled her. 'You should rest my friends.'
"Sha'lina is right, your highness," Janus spoke up. "Trey will show you back to your quarters, rest and then will have the healer see you. I'm sure you have questions that need to be asked."
Ceri nodded. "All right."
Leaving the Dragon's hollow, Trey led them both back to the quarters they'd been assigned, he opened the door and it slid back quickly. "I'll let you know when healer is able to see you, your highness, my lord."
"Thank you Trey," they both bided going inside.
He nodded and left them, the door sliding shut.
As they went further in, Ceri took better note of her surroundings this time. Large windows went from ceiling to floor, long cheer curtains were hung before them. The large bed was center of the room but not the only furniture; chairs sat to one side, there was a door leading off to another room. It was like a high tech tree house.
Daniel embraced her. "Are you all right?" He asked and nuzzled her neck to take her mind off their situation.
She titled her head to give him better access, sighing. "Yes. No. I'm not sure."
"Come lay down," he whispered in her ear, he'd started to undo her shirt.
"Only if you lay down with me," she purred.
"I intend to," he said with a smile, turning her he kissed her, his lips parting hers, deepening the kiss. Clothes came off on the way to the bed; boots were removed and left where they landed. His glasses were carefully put down safely before they crawled naked onto the bed. They needed to make love, to feel and know the other was there to comfort if needed.
Ceri drew Daniel to her, her fingers in his hair. I love you Daniel.
I love you Ceri, he thought back to her and then kissed her again, before leaving her lips to kiss a trail down her throat as he moved further down. Taking a rosy nipple in his mouth he gently suckled, feeling her arch off the bed. He could feel her touch, even though her hands hadn't left his shoulders. She was in his mind; her telekinetic touch was a gentle caress that he could feel, slowly arousing him. He squeezed his eyes shut, feeling his control slip; opening them he licked and sucked the other nipple, giving it just as much attention.
Danny, her cry in his mind was raw with desire.
Patients my love, he promised her. He moved a hand down between her thighs; she moved them apart and arched her hips against his hand as his fingers found her sensitive skin and she moaned out loud. He caressed and brought her to the brink of ecstasy, only to back off and start again, having her whimper in sexual elation.
Deciding she'd been patient enough, Ceri took action, before he knew what was happening, they'd switched positions, having him flat on his back. Her silver eyes had darkened with desire as she loomed over him. Soft wet kissed went down his chest slowly, his muscles contracted when she reached his abdomen. She didn't hesitate there though, and he nearly lost all control as her mouth went over his arousal. He squeezed his eyes shut, groaning as she used her mouth to pleasure him.
"Oh god, Ceri," he moaned.
She laughed in his mind and continued her onslaught, doing what he'd done to her, brought him to the brink of ecstasy, only to back off and begin again.
Daniel gripped the sheets, groaning; he didn't know how much longer he could take this. "Ceri, honey please."
Giving into his plead; straddled him, joining them intimately, groaning at the pleasure of having him inside her. With his hands on her hips, she moved slowly, circling her hips, squeezing her internal muscles with every upward thrust. Her nails dug into his shoulders as she braced herself, her mind was linked with his let him feel everything she was and visa versa; feeling the oncoming surge of pleasure that grew in both of them.
Knowing he was going to lose it altogether, Daniel took control, rolling her beneath him, thrusting into her harder and faster, she cried out and urged him on. His mouth sort hers, kissing her deeply as her fingernails raked his back.
She pulled away. "Danny…I," she never got to finish, crying out as the tidal wave of pleasure exploded through her and her body began to spasm and convulse in bliss.
"Ceri," he cried out at the same time, experiencing her climax along with his own, drawing them both in stated euphoria as he collapsed onto of her.
She held him to her, stocking his back as their breathing raced. "Wow."
"Double wow," he murmured and looked up. "Are you all right?"
"I'm more then all right," she assured, as he moved off her, lying in his arms as he lay beside her. "I feel wonderful."
"Yes you do," he agreed, smirking.
She giggled; taking his hand she drew it down to her stomach, resting it there. Love in her eyes. "Our child," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "I could never ask for anything more wonderful."
"Neither could I," he said softly. "I wanted this with Sha're, but never got the chance. I feel so alive with you, Ceri, so blessed to have a chance to love someone like you. To have a child with you."
She cupped his face in her hand; she knew his fears as well. "You will be a great father, Daniel. You have so much love to offer, so much you can teach our son or daughter."
"As do you, they will have the advantage of two cultures, human and Tallisian," he said and then became serious. "When we get back, you're going to have to cut back on gate travel."
She smiled warmly. "We will get back and I'm sure General Hammond won't have a problem with me catching up with all the translations that need to be done."
"I have a feeling he'll insist on you doing it," he declared, and then kissed her lips gently.
Ceri gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "Daniel," she hesitated, they were going to have to face the real possibility they would never get home. "I'd like you to go through the bonding ceremony with me."
He became curious. "What's that?"
"Do you remember the first night we made love?" She asked him and he nodded. "You said after that you could hear my thoughts more clearly, you knew when I was near. The bonding heightens that and makes it stronger."
"But I'm not a telepath."
"No, but you have telepathic abilities and you already carry my telepathic imprint," she explained. "The bonding will bind our life signatures together on a telepathic level, I suppose it's like a wedding ceremony."
"With telepathy." Daniel added.
"Yes," she smiled. "Danny, you're my consort, my husband. I don't need a piece of paper to prove that, or wedding bands, but I will go through a wedding ceremony if you wish it."
"I don't need those either, Ceri. The ceremony on Ambrosia made us man and wife in my eyes," he told her tenderly. Seeing she was thinking they may not get home. "I love you, everything about you and I'd be honored to go through the bonding ceremony with you."
"Thank you Danny."
He kissed her again, and then inquired. "So what happens at this bonding ceremony?"
"Well, we stand before a Pas'tora," she tried to find the translation for the word.
"Minister or pastor?" Daniel guessed.
"Yes," she agreed. "From what Darian said they have one here on Tarlinga who could perform the ceremony. We stand facing each other holding hands; the Pas'tora puts his hands on our head. He is a conduit in a way; he binds our life signatures together by drawing them together. For a brief moment it's like being one soul instead of two, having one life signature. From that moment on we'll be bond together. Your life signature and mine will be in sync, you will have access to my abilities when we're together or near each other."
"Really?" He was impressed. "And you're sure this will work with me being human?"
Ceri smiled. "It will work, my love. The telepathy you were born with and the imprint you have of mine will let it work," she assured. "But it must be done soon, before the embryo I carry reaches the third month."
"How far do you think you are?" He asked concerned.
"I'm guessing, but I'd say four, maybe five weeks. I'll ask the healer when we get to see him."
"Why can't the ceremony be done once you're in your third month?" He questioned.
"At three months, the embryo's telepathic sensors start to develop, I'll be able to sense him or her. As he or she grows and becomes stronger, I will be able to sense him or her even more easily, even at the moment of birth."
"Really?" He was surprised.
"I sensed my mother soothing me when I was being born," she revealed, sensing his amazement. "It's common belief by many that telepathy comes at puberty, for a Tallisian, we're born telepathic. Our full potential doesn't happen until puberty."
"Will our child be like that though, it'll be half human?" Daniel purposed.
"I believe so, I've been wondering how Harm survived pre-puberty, papa must of done something to dampen his abilities so he would be able to have a normal life," Ceri theorized. "Which I say gradually broke done, because he said he always knows where Mac is. Untrained his abilities had become insights and unexplained feelings and occurrences."
"And now because of Nitara, his Tallisian genes are becoming more dominate," Daniel stated. "Which explains his eyes starting to change color and his newfound abilities."
She ran her finger down his chest. "Mac doesn't seem to mind."
"Mac is even use to Nitara now," he noted. Then added. "We're going to have to tell Amon about the baby."
"I know," she tried to hold back a yawn, failing.
Daniel smiled warmly. "You should rest," he gathered the sheet around them. "Trey said he would tell us when the healer will see us."
"I'll rest if you will too," she announced, settling back in his arms.
"I'm not going anywhere, sweetheart," he promised.
"No you're not," she agreed, her head on his chest, closing her eyes.
He held her, stroking her arm as she slept. His mind raced though; she was pregnant, she was having his child. On a planet millions of light years from Earth, she was having his child and that thought frightened and excited him more then anything.
You will be fine my love. We'll be fine. Rest. Ceri sent to him.
He chuckled softly and kissed her forehead, settling back he drifted off to sleep. He woke a few hours later to find himself alone in the bed, Ceri was gone, her scent still on the pillow and sheets. He noticed his clothes had been picked up and placed at the end of the bed. Getting up he pulled the sheet off, wrapping it around his waist, exploring the room, finding the smaller off to one side contained a bathroom. He used the facilities and took a shower, then got dressed. Grabbing his glasses before he left the quarters, hooking them too his shirt.
Janus, one of the senior riders, a man about Daniel's build and height, approached, stopping before Daniel he bowed. "My Lord I was just coming to get you."
"Oh?" Daniel wondered why. "Have you seen Ceri? Is she with the healer?"
"The Princess is preparing for the bonding ceremony, my lord," the blond headed man announced. "Which is why I was sent to you. Princess Ceri has asked that a bonding ceremony take place. Our Pas'tora has agreed to perform the ceremony, however he is leaving for another province within the hour, so we must hurry. You'll be able to see the healer after the ceremony."
"We're doing the ceremony now?" Daniel questioned surprised.
"Now my lord, come," Janus insisted. "I was surprised to know you hadn't been bonded, but Princess Ceri explained on your planet there is not Pas'tora. So we agreed. You and I are about the same build, my bonding garments will fit you."
"Ahm thank you," the linguist said nervously following Janus, asking. "Your wife is?"
"Taren," the dragon rider answered, guiding him through the corridors to the quarters he shared with his wife. "Please."
"Where is Ceri, exactly?" Daniel asked going in, seeing Trey was present.
"Princess Ceri is with Disa, all is well my Lord," the second rider assured.
"So what now?" Daniel asked them.
"You must change," Janus insisted.
Going a long with it, Daniel put his glasses on and with only slight uncertainty removed the clothes he had on. It didn't bother him to be seen in his underwear, hell he'd shared a locker room with Jack, Teal'c and Harm. That was an education in itself. He put the clothes on given to him, dark brown, nearly black trousers, a dark blue shirt, which he tucked in and then put a jacket the same color as the trousers on. The cut of the jacket reminded him of the Mess Jacket he'd seen hanging in Jack's wardrobe, the one that the Colonel grumbled was a waste of good material. The boots were of dark leather that were laced up and came up just below his knees.
Trey hesitated in his question. "My lord, your glasses, can you see without them?"
"Enough to coup, why?" Daniel asked cautiously.
"During the ceremony your eyes must remain free and uncovered."
"Oh right," he took them off and wondered what to do with them.
"If I may, my lord," Janus offered, holding out his hand.
Daniel gave them to him. "I'll need them after."
"I assured you my lord, I'll return them," the dragon rider said with a smile, sensing the nervousness in the young lord. "Come, its time."
Following them, Daniel tried to control the hundreds of butterflies that were now lose in his stomach as he also listened to what they were instructing him concerning the ceremony.
Trey sensed his concerns and nervousness. "You'll be fine my Lord."
"I hope so."
They led him into an even larger meeting room, this one large enough to accommodate the dragons that were present as well as their riders. What caught Daniel's attention weren't those around him, but the vision of beauty before him. Ceri stood before an elderly man in dark green robes. Her dress was a startling blue that shimmered when she turned and smiled. Her hair was down and styled, thin braids pulled it back from her face, hollowed blue gemstones woven into those braids.
"A vision of true beauty my lord," Janus whispered.
"Yes," Daniel managed to say. He went with a little urging to stand before the Pas'tora with Ceri, standing facing her. Wishing Jack and the others could have seen her too and witnessed this.
"Welcome my lord," the gray haired Pas'tora greeted.
Daniel tore his gaze away from Ceri. "Hello."
"It is all right my son, the Princess is a vision of beauty," the holy man said smiling. "Please join hands and we shell begin." The Pas'tora placed a hand gently on the Princess's head and then her consorts. Projecting telepathically. In life those that began as two, shell now become one, two hearts, one soul. He closed his eyes and began the bonding.
Daniel couldn't take his eyes off Ceri's; he felt like he was being drawn to her, not physically, not even mentally, it was an unusual sensation that he couldn't explain. He could feel her presence, her emotions; hear her heart beat, beating in time with his. He didn't listen to the words the Pas'tora was speaking, he couldn't even say whether the man was saying them aloud or using telepathy. It was like the rest of the planet just faded away and it was just the two of them.
He felt himself being gentle pushed closer to Ceri, realizing the Pas'tora had removed his hand from his head and hers, she stood in his arms, his in hers.
She smiled. I am yours and you are mine.
He smiled also, amazed at how clear her thoughts and feelings were to him now. You are mine and I am yours, he replied.
What were two; is now one, the Pas'tora declared.
Wrapping her arms around his neck, Ceri rose a little on her toes, her lips brushing against Daniel's, a gentle kiss that became more as he pulled her against him and kissed her back, parting her lips in a passionate kiss.
The Dragons became to hum; it was melodious, almost angelic. A cheer rose from their riders as the two lovers parted, smiling.
Daniel looked to his new wife and saw tears. "Ceri?"
"I miss dad, he should have been here. Harm, Sam and Teal'c too, and papa."
He wiped the tears that slid down her cheeks. "They are, in our hearts," he drew her back into his arms. "We'll get home, I promise."
Chawn came over to them. "Your highness, my Lord, the healer is ready to see you," he announced. "I'll take you back to quarters where you can change."
Nodding they followed him, he waited outside their quarters, their clothing had been returned and they changed quickly, folding or hanging the bonding garments.
Before they went back out to Chawn, Ceri stopped her husband slipping easily into his arms, hugging him. They've bugged the room.
You're sure? He asked and kissed the top of her head tenderly.
I'm sure, Disa made a slip when I was dressing.
We're going to have to be careful then, he insisted. He released her and they went back out to Chawn.
He handed Daniel his glasses. "Janus said to give these to you."
"Thank you, Chawn," he put them on and took Cheri's hand. "We're ready."
"This way," the dragon rider insisted.
Daniel gave Ceri's hand a gentle squeeze to get her attention as they walked. He had a few insights himself. We're being lied to about our equipment. I had the GDO strapped to my forearm instead of having it in my vest. I don't believe the Goa'uld would have removed it. They would have been more concerned with getting us to through the gate and into a sarcophagus. We're more valuable alive then dead.
I agree, she admitted and hesitated a little. Daniel it was dad who was hurt.
I know. He'll be fine; they said he was taken back through the Stargate.
I just, she felt tears well in her eyes. I need to see him to know he's all right.
So do I. Lets talk to the healer first, and then do a little exploring of our own. Daniel suggested and saw her nod in agreement.
Chawn lead them down the corridors, both taking note of where they were and which way they were going. Finally they were shown into what looked to be an infirmary.
A gray-headed man smiled as he walked towards them. "Welcome, I'm Na'van, the healer."
"Na'van, this is Princess Ceri and her consort Lord Daniel." Chawn introduced.
"It's an honor," the healer said and gestured them over to an exam bed. "If you will your highness," he said patting the bed. The young woman sat up on it. Her consort standing near close by, the healer noted. "Sha'lina and Jar'lin revealed you were pregnant," he sated.
"Yes, before that we didn't know," Ceri, stated.
Na'van smiled. "Quite all right, lay back if you will Princess."
She did, her consort asking the question that was on the tip of her tongue. "What are you going to do?"
"I'm going to take a look at the baby and calculate size, growth and determined how far a long your wife is," the healer explained and saw the young man nod. Taking a seat before the console next to the bed, Na'van activated the ultra scan, the wide beam scanned only Ceri's abdomen, it dissipated and the information was displayed on the screen.
Ceri sat up, swinging her legs off the bed as she turned, looking at the image displayed. "That's the baby?"
"It is," the healer made the image clearer.
Daniel sat up next to his wife, taking her hand. "How far a long is Ceri?"
"Four weeks," Na'van answered.
Squeezing Daniel's hand, Ceri said to him telepathically. Ambrosia, which makes our child a…
Honeymoon baby, he finished grinning.
Yes.
"Ahr, your recalling conception," the healer said smiling. "That's good. Now your highness, my lord, do you have any questions?"
"Why didn't Ceri know she was pregnant?" Daniel asked bluntly.
"That's not uncommon, being busy, a woman can sometimes ignore what her body is telling her," Na'van explained and addressed the young woman. "Your highness, have you experienced any nausea, tiredness or increase of appetite?"
"I've been getting tired a lot quicker then usual, nothing else," she admitted.
"Then you're very lucky," the healer said with a smile. "My wife was sick day and night for her entire pregnancy."
"How long is Ceri's pregnancy going to be?" Daniel asked concerned. "I'm human, on Earth a human woman carries a child for 40 weeks. Will it be different for Ceri?"
"Our women also carry for 40 weeks, however from records I have dating back to when the Tallisian's first colonized this planet. A Tallisian women carries her child for 36 weeks," Na'van declared. "I did some research when I was asked to see you both. I believe though we should be prepared for the Princess to give birth any time from 34 weeks. I can have the data available to you, if you think it will help you understand."
"Thank you."
"Do either of you have any more questions?"
Ceri shook her head, having picked up his slip, they expected them to be still with them when she was ready to give birth. "I'm still coming to terms with being pregnant," she said, faking her shyness.
"Well if you do, please come and see me."
"Thank you Na'van."
He stood and bowed.
Daniel hoped off the bed and helped Ceri off; he shook the doctor's hand. "Thank you."
Na'van bowed again. "My honor, my lord."
Chawn showed them out. "I hope this has been good news for you both."
"Yes," Ceri said softly. "Thank you Chawn."
He returned them to quarters, leaving them; the bonding clothes they'd used were gone. Ceri walked over to the window, gesturing for Daniel to follow, putting a finger to her lips.
Chawn is outside standing guard, she supplied. Can you sense him?
He nodded. Ceri, Daniel took hold of her by the shoulders. I know this is going to sound callous, but are you sure you're pregnant and they're not just tricking us?
Unfortunately the thought had occurred to her too. I'm sure, she took his hand and placed it on her stomach, risking what she was about to do. Close your eyes.
He did feeling her presence guided him and then he felt it, another life. Innocent, undeveloped, growing, so tiny and helpless, that's when he knew he was sensing his child. Oh god.
Ceri pulled them gently away, opening her eyes as he opened his. I lied before, my abilities are stronger then the normal Tallisian, which is why I can sense our child at this early stage.
It was amazing. Daniel exclaimed astonished.
She smiled sadly, realizing why the Tarlingan's wanted them. We have to get out of here Daniel, she went into his arms as he sensed her distress. They don't want us; they want our child, our baby.
I won't let them take our baby, Ceri. We will get out of here, he promised. One way or another we will.
Stargate Command: Cheyenne MountainColonel Jack O'Neill knocked on the door to the General's office and then went in. "Sir, can I have a word?"
"Of course, Colonel, how are you feeling?" Hammond asked.
"Fine, thank you sir," he said and the came to the point. "General I want to go back to PXC 81799."
"I'm sorry Colonel, request denied."
"But sir, this is my daughter and a man I gladly call my son," Jack said, fighting hard to keep the emotion from his voice.
Hammond sat forward, leaning on his deck. "Colonel for all we know both Daniel Jackson and Ceri O'Neill are now Goa'uld hosts. I can't risk people on a mission like that, I'm sorry."
"But sir…"
"No Jack, I'm sorry, but the answer is still no."
Jack felt like punching George Hammond in the face, but he didn't. Instead he turned on his heal and stormed out of the office, slamming the door shut with enough force to rattle it. He headed for his quarters, slamming the door when he was inside. Leaning against the far wall he slid down it to the floor, resting his elbows on his drawn up knees as he sobbed into his hands. This wasn't happening, it wasn't. Oh God, please don't let this be happening, he pleaded. Please don't let me lose them.
Harm and Sam found him there, Harm having sensed his distress, they joined him by the wall. Sam sitting between the two men, each had taken her hand, joining the three of them together. This incident had brought them even closer together emotionally.
'Don't give up.' Nitara told her host.
'I will never give up.' Harm told her.
Neither will I, Sam added.
Or I. Jack concluded.
Harm stared at the two of them. They'd heard his conversation with Nitara, that wasn't possible. Or was it? He looked at Sam's hand firmly enclosed in his, Jack held her other hand. He'd done this. What do we do?
We return. Jack said bluntly.
Agreed. Sam stated.
He nodded, standing without breaking the link he pulled Sam too her feet, who pulled Jack to his. We bring them home alive or we bring their bodies.
Agreed, both responded.
'You will need help.' Nitara noted.
We'll get help, Jack promised, determination on his face. He looked to Harm. Get Mac here, we're going to need her.
He nodded. Releasing Sam's hand he made the call, being directed to her mobile. "Mac its Harm…. We need your help Sarah…. It's Ceri and Daniel; they were captured on a mission…. I'm on base, do you need me to pick you up… All right, I'll see you when you get here. Sarah this is strictly need to know and no one but SG-1 needs to know…. I love you too, Sarah. Bye." He hung up and turned. "She's in San Diego, she's going to ditch her partner and get a flight, she'll met us here in two hours. So how do we get back to PXC 81799?"
"The control room and Gate room are nearly deserted around oh three hundred, we can go then," Sam announced.
Jack agreed. "As soon as Mac arrives, Harm, get her into fatigues and get some sleep. Before we're ready to go, get to the armory and get everything we'll need. Sam and I will meet you both in the control room. We'll lock down the corridors around the control room, by the time they override we'll be gone."
He nodded. "It's a plan."
Mac arrived on time, saying she was merely visiting Harm, being show directly to his quarters. He quickly explained what had happened and what the plan was as she changed.
"You're disobeying a direct order," she noted, noticing she wore fatigues this time with SG-1 patches.
"I know," he said bluntly.
"You don't care," she realized.
"No I don't, this is my sister and someone I think of as a brother. I'm not going to let them be taken as hosts."
"And if they're dead?" She asked realistically.
"Then we bring their bodies home."
Mac had a feeling she couldn't change his mind, not that she was going to try. "Okay, so now what?"
Harm looked at his watch, it was twenty-three, thirty hours. "Now we grab some sleep and then take a trip to the armory before meeting Jack and Sam."
Finishing tying the laces on her boots, Mac stood. "So I just laced up my boots for nothing," she mussed and they both laughed.
At oh three hundred, the two sergeants on duty in the control room didn't know what hit them, the Colonel and Major stormed in and disabled them with sedatives. The Naval Commander and Marine Colonel arrived seconds later with P-90's, Zat guns, and anything else they could fit into his backpack, having taken a different rout to get there. Harm handed a P-90 and Zat to both Jack and Sam, who secured them.
"Welcome to SG-1, Colonel," Jack greeted, grinning.
"Thank you Colonel," she replied lightly.
Sam dialed the Gate after locking down the corridors using Jack's code. "It's done, let's go," she said after locking down the computer.
The Gate opened as they rushed into the Gate room, finding Teal'c standing at the bottom of the ramp with his staff weapon. "I can not let you do this," the Jaffa stated, seeing the Marine Colonel with them.
"You have no chose," Jack informed. "Now get out of our way."
"I can not."
Four P-90's were suddenly raised against him. "Get out of the way." Jack repeated.
"I will not, however I will accompany you," Teal'c declared. "Ceri O'Neill and Daniel Jackson are my family also."
"Then lets go; we're wasting time." Harm said and he and Mac brushed past the Jaffa.
Jack and Sam followed, as did Teal'c, stepping through the event horizon, the wormhole taking them to PXC 81799. They were tossed out onto the planet ready to fight, but what they saw in the twilight of two moons surprised even them. Bodies. Burnt Jaffa bodies. More then had been taken out when the remaining SG-1 had made their escape.
"What the hell happened here?" Jack demanded.
"They've been slaughtered." Sam noted.
"Fried more like it." Mac declared.
Harm spotted a green jacket lying beside a dead Jaffa; he went over and picked it up. It was Ceri's; it smelt of blood and burnt tissue, a hole through the back.
'She is not dead.' Nitara stated.
'How do you know?' Harm asked her.
'Because you know,' she stated. 'Let me explain to everyone.'
Harm agreed closing his eyes, letting Nitara take over as they opened. "Colonel O'Neill."
Jack had seen the change. "Nitara."
"Your daughter and Dr. Jackson are still alive."
"How can you be so sure?" Sam asked, she'd found Daniel's jacket, his also smelling of blood and burnt tissue.
"Harm can sense his sister is alive, I'm just interrupting these sensation. He is still becoming use to dealing with them, I can help him." She explained.
"So Harm can find them?" Mac inquired.
"I believe so, with my help"
"Then lets do it." Jack insisted.
She nodded and gestured for them to follow, feeling Harm's uneasiness at having his body moving without him controlling it. 'I'm sorry Harm, but your sister's life is president, one of my hosts was empathic, I can understand what your sensing better then you can.'
'I understand Nitara, it just feels weird,' he told her.
'Then I will return control, we'll do it together, your way.'
'Thank you.'
His eyes closed and reopened and he was in control once more.
Jack patted his friend on the back as they walked. "Okay Hammer?" He asked even before Mac could.
"Yeah, I just needed control of my own body, if you know what I mean. Nitara is going to keep helping me though."
"Okay."
They came to the top of the ridge; beyond it was a forest. Daniel and Ceri had been exploring the ruins they'd found over grown by vegetation. Harm realized they should never have left them to return to the Gate; one of them should have remained behind with them.
'Then one of you would have been taken too.' Nitara pointed out. 'And your sister and Daniel are a capable warriors.'
He knew that. 'It doesn't help.'
'I understand. Now you must concentrate, close you eyes and clear your thoughts, then recall Ceri's life signature, search for it as you would a memory.'
Harm did what he was told, closing out all distractions. Just when he was about to give up, he felt it, her life signature and Daniel's and something else he didn't understand. Their presence though reached out to him with more force then it ever had, droving him to his knees, gasping.
Mac hankered down, putting a hand on his arm. "Harm?"
"I can feel them," he said slowing his rapidly beating heart. "They're alive."
"Where?"
"In there," he answered pointing to the forest. Before he could say any more a word was forcefully thrust telepathically at him with enough force it sat him on his backside, taking Mac with him.
'Cha'tar!'
"God!" He explained, rubbing his temples.
"What happened?" Sam asked concerned.
"Ceri just whammed me," he accepted Jack's help to his feet, looking at Teal'c who'd helped Mac to her feet. "Do you know what 'Cha'tar' means?"
"Dragon Riders," the Jaffa answered.
'They're a myth.' Nitara supplied.
"Nitara said they're a myth?" Harm added. "But that's what I heard Ceri say. Cha'tar."
"There is a legend among the Jaffa of the Cha'tar. Of the Dragon Riders, who flew fire breathing dragons against the Goa'uld and defeated them." Teal'c supplied. "Nitara is right, they are a myth."
"Perhaps not." Sam contradicted. "Those Jaffa back there were burnt and it wasn't by staff blasts."
"So, what, these Cha'tar flew out of the sky, did a crispy critter job on the Jaffa and took Daniel and Ceri?" Jack purposed.
"It looks like it," she agreed.
"But why?" Harm asked.
Jack shrugged, then announced. "Lets go find out." He started down the ridge, the rest of his team following.
Harm left Mac talking quietly to Sam and walked beside his CO. "Jack, I sensed something else when I reached out to Ceri and Daniel."
"What?"
"They felt different, stronger, like their life signatures were combined and there was something else, something I don't understand." Harm tried to explain. "It was like I was sensing a life signature that wasn't there's but was."
Jack stopped him, the rest of the team stopped too. "What do you mean wasn't there's but was?"
"I don't know that's just what I felt."
'I believe your sister is pregnant." Nitara offered an explanation.
'What?'
'Ceri is pregnant, you're sensing her unborn child.'
'How is that possible, I'm not that strong?' Harm asked her, seeing Jack was getting impatient.
'True, but Ceri was, possible at the very moment you reached out for her, sensing her unborn child, so you felt what she was.' The Tok'ra symbiote offered.
Harm felt a range of emotions soar through him. His sister was pregnant; he was going to be an uncle. He grinned silly. "Ceri is pregnant."
"What?" Jack demanded.
"She's pregnant Jack, that's what I was feeling."
Sam smiled at that and gave Jack a hug. "You're going to be a grandpa."
He suddenly realized what she meant. "I'm going to be a grandpa," he said shocked.
Mac slipped her arm around Harm's waist. "Congratulations Uncle Harm," she said cheerfully.
"If this is true, then we must hurry," Teal'c stated. "Ceri O'Neill is the last remaining member of the only Royal House ever to oppose Goa'uld rule, the life of her child is in jeopardy here if the Goa'uld return."
That brought them all down to earth, so to speak. "All right, lets get going." Jack ordered. "Hammer, lead the way, Teal'c brings up the rear."
Both men acknowledged and they all started walking again.
Moments earlier: Cha'tar Keep
Daniel lay with Ceri in his arms; despite the early hour neither were tired, though they had slept several hours. "Are you sure you're all right?" He asked concerned.
"I'm fine, I'm just not tired," she whispered, she held his hand in hers, their connection even stronger because of the bonding. "I miss home," she finally admitted. "I miss being able to wander around your apartment, to read or play chest."
He smiled warmly, shifting slightly so he could move his other hand down to rest of her stomach. "My apartment always felt empty when you weren't there, but no more. In fact we should look for a house when we get back."
"I guess your place isn't really going to be big enough any more," she said, she put her hand over his. "And we'll have to baby proof it."
"You mean I can't turn our house into a museum," he mused. "Like my apartment."
"I love your apartment for that very reason," she admitted. "But a small child could be hurt or even damage some valuable artifacts or even your journals or mine."
"True," he agreed. "So first thing is we get a house and then we baby poof it, plenty of display cabinets and bookcases that are enclosed and lockable."
Ceri could sense his excitement and his fears, all which she felt too, this was a big step for them both, but one they would handle. She was about to comment when she felt it, keeping her reaction to herself. Daniel.
I know I sensed it too, he revealed, accessing her abilities, it was something he was still coming to terms with. Who they were sensing was SG-1, they were back and Sarah Mackenzie was with them. Will Harm be able to sense the baby and us?
He's going to be able to sense us strongly now we've bonded, the baby I'm not sure, she admitted.
He's searching for us; Daniel realized what he was sensing.
Lets help him, Ceri declared and together they reached back out to him, thrusting their presence in his direction, she included a word. Cha'tar!
They both felt his reaction to that. I think you whammed him. Daniel said, knowing they were going to have to apologize for that one.
I know I'll apologize later.
The door to their room opened and the lights were turned on, Janus and Trey stormed in. Both men carried weapons much like a Zat gun and they were pointing them at them. "Get dressed." Janus demanded. He threw a backpack on the bed.
Getting out of the bed, Daniel recognized the backpack; it was the one Ceri had been carrying when the Jaffa had hit her with the staff weapon. In it were spare fatigues, their boots and a few other things. They had a habit of carrying spare clothing for each other in case of emergencies. What was unanticipated was finding the GDO, which he guessed they had no idea what it was used for.
Ceri slipped out of the bed beside him, seeing what he did. Keeping the surprise from her face, she proceeded to get dress as he did. When Daniel strapped the GDO onto his forearm, she drew the attention away from him. "What's the meaning of this?"
"We have located your friends," Trey announced. "It had been hoped they wouldn't return."
"We told you our friends would come looking for us." Daniel stated, putting his glasses on.
"The Jaffa were taking you back to be hosts, you were dead to your friends." Janus stated.
Ceri looked to Daniel, both coming to the same conclusion. Looking back to the Tarlingan. "You contacted the Jaffa."
"No, that was just a fortunate circumstance, they arrived just before you did," he revealed, now they were dressed, he gestured them out of the room with his weapon. They went, being forced down the corridor.
Daniel took Ceri's hand. We have to get away from them.
I know, on three, she announced. One… two… three…
Their attack surprised both Janus and Trey, neither man ready for them, being quickly disarmed and knocked out. Taking the weapons with them, they rushed down the corridor.
"The Dragon's Hallow is this way," Ceri stated. "I'm hoping one of the dragon's will help us."
"And if they don't?" Daniel asked.
"We improvise," she answered with a grin.
"Great," he grumbled. That sounded so much like Jack.
They came to the hollow, finding only one dragon inside, a silvery gray beast, only half the size of the others, speckles of gold on her hide. She sat on her haunches; wings folded, watching them skid to a stop, her gold eyes sparking concern.
Daniel approached cautiously. "We need your help, we have to leave. We won't hurt you."
'You carry weapons though,' the dragon stated.
He put the gun down, as did Ceri, both showing they were now unarmed. "I'm Daniel, this is Ceri. Please, will you help us?"
The dragon fluttered her wings. 'You are the ones they talk about, the lord and his Princess.'
"Yes," Ceri agreed. "We need to get to our friends."
The dragon lumbered forward, lowing her head to Ceri, she gently nuzzled the young woman's stomach. 'You're with child.'
"Yes, the Tarlingan's want our baby."
'It is not there's,' the dragon stated and hunched down. 'I am Tal'en, we must hurry.'
"Thank you Tal'en," Daniel said and helped Ceri mount the beast, climbing on behind her.
Tal'en rose. 'I suggest you hold tight my lord, your highness, it will be windy and cold,' she advised.
Daniel scooted forward getting right up behind Ceri, wrapping his arms around her, clamping down hard with his thighs as she did. "We're ready," he announced, holding on to them both.
Turning, the dragon launched herself out of the hollow, her wings flapping, sensing the exhilaration from her two riders. She weaved in and out of the trees with ease, they weren't alone though, the other riders and dragon's were after them. Tal'en was determined to out wit them, because of her size she could dart more easily between the trees.
"There!" Daniel shouted, spotting Jack and the others as they dipped low once more.
'These are your friends?' Tal'en asked.
"Yes."
'Then I will pick them up too." She dropped low, coming to land before the shocked teammates.
"What the hell!" Jack exclaimed, surprised and relieved to see them.
"There's no time to explain," Ceri told him. "Climb on, we've got to hurry."
"Are you sure about this, Ceri O'Neill?" Teal'c asked hesitating.
"Yes. This is Tal'en."
The dragon hunched down and let them climb up on to her back, firstly Sam, then Jack, Mac, Harm and lastly Teal'c. When they were aboard, she rose. 'Hold on my friends," she warned and then launched herself into the night sky.
"Do you know where the Chappa'ai is?" Daniel asked her.
'I do my lord, I'll take you there,' she said and changed her direction.
Jack glanced back and noticed the others following, looking forward once more. "Can we lose the parade behind us?" He shouted over the wind.
'I will do my best, can you open the Chappa'ai from my back or will I have to land?"
"I can open it, Tal'en, just get us there!" Ceri assured her.
'I shell, Princess.'
"You realize you can't stay."
'I understand, Princess.'
Mac felt her stomach drop and she closed her eyes, hugging tight to Jack, feeling Harm's arms tighten around her also. Dragon or not, she hated this kind of flying.
They broke out of the trees into the clearing, Tal'en picked up speed.
"Get us close to the Chappa'ai, Talen!" Ceri told her. "Circle it."
'Yes, your highness.'
Harm saw the Stargate getting closer, posing his question telepathically. Ceri, what about Tal'en?
She's coming with us, she answered.
Are you sure, this isn't much room in the Gate room?
I'm sure.
He let it drop. Hearing Nitara: 'Have faith in your sister Harm.' Which made him smile.
Ceri felt Daniel's arms tighten around her. "Let me help you," he said to her and she agreed. Closing her eyes she pictured the DHD in her mind and with his strength, focused her telekinesis's pushing the symbols down on the DHD, opening the gate. Her eyes opened and she saw the Gate had opened. "Tal'en, you've got to fly us in, it's going to be a quick stop through."
'I will keep you safe, Princess,' the dragon assured.
Daniel pushed up his sleeve and punched in the IDC, sending it. "Lets go!" He shouted and held tight to Ceri. The dragon turned towards the open gate, weapon's fire sounded around them. "Hang on!" He shouted to the others and they did.
Tal'en dipped and at the last minute tucked her wings in and her head down, going through the Gate, her riders tucking low against her body. Their exit wasn't so graceful, she had to extend her wings as soon as she was through, which startled those in the Gate room, luckily no one shot at her. She stumbled on the ramp but recovered her balance tucking her wings in.
"Close the iris!" Jack shouted. "Tal'en move forward."
The dragon did so as the iris closed behind her missing her tail, the Gate closing down. They climbed down from her back, seeing the shocked looks from the SF's in the Gate room and those in the control room.
"No wonder you like this job," Mac said to Harm. "What a ride!" She exclaimed and they all laughed.
General Hammond hurried into the Gate room, the SF's were getting out, some in a hurry. "Colonel O'Neill, what the hell is going on?"
"General Hammond, this is Tal'en," Jack introduced. "She saved Ceri and Daniel."
The dragon bowed her head. 'I am honored to meet you General Hammond.'
The telepathic dragon momentarily startled him; he shouldn't have been after all he'd seen, but he was. "I'm honored to meet you, Tal'en and thank you for rescuing my people."
Tal'en titled her head a little. 'I don't understand, the Princess is not your ruler?'
George Hammond smiled. "No, Tal'en, in fact the Princess works for me."
Ceri smiled and turned to the dragon. "It's a story for another time my friend. For now we need to find you somewhere not so enclosed, you can't go back, Tal'en."
'I understand, Princess.'
"How do you purpose to do this, Ceri O'Neill?" Teal'c asked.
"Carefully." Jack retorted.
She giggled. "Very."
Daniel slipped his arm around her shoulders. "What about the Ambrosian's, they could look after Tal'en."
"And they have a lot of wide open spaces for a young dragon," she agreed.
"Firstly, I want to hear what happened," the General insisted. "Tal'en can remain here within the Gate room."
"Yes sir," Ceri nodded and turned to the dragon. "We have to debrief. You're safe here, come off the ramp and settle at the bottom, no one will hurt you."
'Thank you Princess.'
"You're welcome, Tal'en."
Daniel stroked her head. "We won't be long," he said and he and Ceri followed the others. A couple of SF's, who were waiting took their weapons, to return them to the armory.
Tal'en lumbered down the ramp and settled at its bottom when they'd exited, circling her tail around her body.
In the briefing room, SG-1, the whole extended team took their seats, as did the General. "Now what happened?" He asked. "And why do I have a dragon in the Gate room?"
Ceri and Daniel told him what had happened from the moment they woke up, leaving out the fact she was pregnant, but it came up.
"So why were they holding you?"
"Because I'm pregnant General," she revealed. "They didn't want Daniel and I, just the baby, after it's birth, I'd say we would have disappeared."
"Holy Hannah." Sam exclaimed.
"Were they the descendants of the Tallisian's that left your planet?" Hammond asked.
"Yes sir." Ceri announced.
"The ruins we found, I'm guessing they were the original settlement," Daniel theorized. "The Tallisian's drove away the Goa'uld and freed the Tarlingan's, as the centuries passed they became one people."
"The Tarlingan's were genetically stronger and slowly the Tallisian gene was almost breed out," she concluded. "Those who did have the gene are the dragon riders they have now, or spiritual leaders and healers."
"All right report to Dr. Frasier. Ceri, make sure you inform the doctor of your pregnancy and welcome back, both of you."
"Thank you sir."
"As soon as you have the all clear, then we'll make arrangements for Tal'en to be sent to Ambrosia, SG-11 is on planet at the moment, they'll make sure she's safe," he pushed back his chair and stood, as did they. "Dismissed." He ordered and left for his office.
Moving away from the table, Jack enclosed his adopted daughter in his arms. "I'm glad you're all right kiddo." He drew Daniel into the embrace too. "You too Space Monkey."
Daniel chuckled at the nickname, smirking. "Thanks… dad."
Jack pulled back in surprised at being addressed that way by his friend. "Dad?"
Ceri smiled and slipped her arm around her husband. "Well by Tallisian law he is my consort, dad. My husband."
Sam and the others tried hard not to laugh, even Teal'c found it amusing.
Jack sighed and rubbed his temples. "All right, but not on the base," he ordered, and then walked away, heading down the stairs mumbling. "I'm getting too old for this."
Everyone else just laughed, they all congratulated Daniel and Ceri before following him, reporting to the infirmary. Dr. Frasier cleared them all, even Ceri, who she spend more time with once finding out the young woman was pregnant. Ceri relaying the information told to her and Daniel by Na'van.
"Well everything looks find," Janet told her. "In two weeks I'll do an ultra sound and we'll take a look at the baby. For now I suggest plenty of rest, don't over do it. Come in tomorrow and we'll talk about diet and exercise and Gate travel."
"All right," she hoped off the exam bed. "Thanks Janet."
"No problem, congratulations Ceri," she gave the young woman a hug and then Daniel one too, who was hovering around. "You look after her, or I'll make your life miserable."
He chuckled. "You have my word."
"Good, now out, get some rest."
"We will," Ceri agreed and they left, finding Harm and the others waiting. "Everything is fine," she assured.
"Well lets see, Tal'en off," Sam suggested and they all agreed, heading back to the Gate room.
Ceri and Daniel walked with Mac and Harm. "Did Harm call you?" She asked the Marine.
"He did, when you were both missing. I volunteered to help out." Mac answered.
"So you're not suppose to be here, but you came anyway," Daniel guessed.
"Something like that," she admitted.
"Will you get into trouble?"
"Probably, but it was worth it."
"Don't worry, Sarah," Harm smirked, putting his arm around her. "You have a good lawyer."
"That I do flyboy," she agreed.
Arriving at the Gate room, they found the General waiting for them. "I've spoken to Major Kalsen and Jordan, they're expecting Tal'en. Jordan said she is most welcome to stay with them and they'll do all they can to make her feel at home on Ambrosia."
"Thank you General." Ceri said.
"Well, she did save you and Dr. Jackson. She deserves this," the Gate opened as he turned to address the dragon. "Thank you once again, Tal'en."
'Thank you General, for my new home,' she said.
"You're welcome. Jordan is waiting for you on Ambrosia with Major Kalsen. Good luck."
Tal'en bowed her head.
Ceri and Daniel went over to her. "Thank you my friend, you gave up so much to help us," she said gently.
'I could not let them take your baby from you, it was not right. Perhaps one day I will be able to return, for now though I will make a life on Ambrosia,' the dragon said optimistically.
Daniel stroked her nose. "Thank you."
She bowed her head again. 'I hope you will visit when your son or daughter is born, my lord.'
"We will, Tal'en," he assured.
Jack came up to them. "It's time to go," he announced and gave Tal'en a pat. "Thank you."
She gently nuzzled against him. 'Take care of them.'
"I will."
"Goodbye, Tal'en." Ceri bided.
'Goodbye Princess,' the dragon said and then lumbered up the ramp and through the gate. A few minutes later the Gate closed down.
Hammond turned to the Marine. "Colonel, I spoke to Admiral Chegwidden earlier in the night, he wanted to know if you were with Commander Rabb."
She looked sheepish. "Sorry sir."
"Well I since you were involved in a mission, unauthorized as it was, I cleared things up with the Admiral. He's having a Lieutenant go to your apartment and pack you a few things to send to you here, you're on leave until after Christmas," he revealed.
"Thank you sir."
He nodded, addressing the rest of them. "SG-1, your on stand down for twenty-four hours, go home and get some rest."
"Yes sir," Jack acknowledged for them all.
Lastly the General spoke to Daniel and Ceri. "Your pregnancy will change your duties Dr. O'Neill, but I'm sure we have plenty that will keep you busy until you're ready to go through the Gate again. Dr. Frasier is going to advise me further later in the morning. Dismissed."
She nodded and along with the rest of SG-1, left the Gate room.
Christmas Eve:
Jack wandered into the lab, chuckling over the fact someone had put up a sign that read Dr. D. Jackson and Dr. C. Jackson. Everyone on the base was glad to have Daniel and Ceri back; they'd had a little party to celebrate not only their 'wedding', but also the news of the impending baby. "Hi sweetheart."
Ceri didn't look up from the Goa'uld tablet she was translating. "Hi dad, Daniel still in the infirmary?"
He winced. "It's only a scratch," he assured going further into the room.
"A scratch that's requiring five stitches," she revealed.
"And how do you know that?"
She looked up and grinned. "I knew the moment you came through the Stargate that Daniel was hurt, as for the stitches. Daniel can't hide something like that from me now."
Jack played with an artifact. "So no secrets, huh?"
"None at all," she put down the tablet and got up, going around to him she took the Egyptian like vase off him. "Dad, that's over five thousand years old."
"Sorry," he apologized.
She shook her head; there were times when her dad was like a kid. "That's okay." She put the vase down.
He noticed the unbuttoned blue fatigue shirt she was wearing over her black tee shirt, had 'Jackson' on the right side, meaning it was one of Daniel's. "Missed him huh?"
She blushed. "Yeah."
He smiled and drew her into his arms. "He's fine, kiddo. I promised I'd look after him and I did."
"I know."
He pulled back a little and put a hand on her swelling stomach. "So how's my grandson?"
"You're granddaughter is fine," she corrected smiling.
Daniel came in over hearing them. "I wouldn't argue Jack, she always wins."
"Don't I know it," he mused stepping back. "All right kids, finish up, because we are out of here. Its Christmas Eve and neither of you are staying on this base a moment longer. Besides I have a surprise for you."
"A surprise?" Daniel was concerned having taken his wife in his arms. "What have you done, Jack?"
"Just wait and see, besides it wasn't just me, Harm, Sam, Mac and Teal'c were in on it too. So was most of the base."
Ceri sighed and grabbed what she needed, shutting down everything else. "I'm ready."
"Then lets change and get out of here."
After changing out of uniform into civilian clothing, they left the base, meeting up with the others. Using one of the bases SUV's, Jack drove.
"So where are we going?" Daniel asked.
"You'll see," he told him.
Sitting back, Daniel let it drop for now. Ceri did also, though she sensed they all knew something. She settled back with her head on Daniel's shoulder, closing her eyes she drifted off. Daniel did also, the painkillers for his hand making him drowse.
Harm and the others had arranged with Janet to get Ceri to stay on base, and then with SG-1 being off world it had worked out perfectly. He smiled at his sleeping companions. "This is going to work well."
Jack glanced in the revision mirror, seeing what Harm met, then back to the road. "Well the doc said she was going to give him painkillers and I guess Ceri hasn't been sleeping well without Daniel around."
"We're just lucky we could pull this off so quickly," Mac stated.
"There are many on the base who are fond of both Ceri O'Neill and Daniel Jackson, Colonel Mackenzie." Teal'c declared.
"It was a joint effort," Sam agreed. "But I was surprised by how many people wanted to help out."
"So was I." Harm announced.
Finally they arrived at their destination, a house two doors down from Jack's. This was their surprise. Getting out they debated over what to do with their sleeping companions.
"So do we wake them or carry them inside and let them sleep?" Harm purposed.
"Lets see if we can wake them up," Jack suggested and gave Daniel a gentle nudge. "Danny, hey Space Monkey, wake up."
He moaned and opened his eyes. "Jack?"
"We're here, wake up sleeping beauty."
Taking a moment to comprehend what was said, Daniel woke Ceri and they got out. "Where are we?" He asked.
"Your place," Jack revealed.
"What?" They both asked together.
"Well the apartment is going to be too small and being so close to Christmas, we knew you guys hadn't had time to look around, so we did it and found this place," Harm revealed. "It's only a couple of doors down from Jack's."
This stunned the both of them. "How?" Ceri was stunned.
"Well, when dad was declared MIA, the Navy benefits came to my mom and I, she put mine away," Harm explained. "When she married Frank she lost hers. Frank invested mine; I used a little to buy my Vett. The rest I put into trust, I knew you wouldn't take any of it, so I used it to buy this place. It's my gift to you and Daniel, call it a wedding present."
"We can't accept this," Daniel said shocked. "It's too much."
"I insist. After all, because of you guys I got my life back together, found my dad, my sister, got my head out of my six and admitted my feelings for Sarah. So you have no chose, it's yours."
Ceri knew she could never change his mind, so she didn't try. She hugged him though. "Thank you."
"Hey I've got to look after my baby sister," he mused. "Not to mention my niece or nephew."
Daniel shook his hand. "Thanks Harm."
"No problem little brother."
"Lets go inside, it's cold out here," Jack complained and they all laughed, following up to the front door. He unlocked it, and then turned to Daniel as he pushed it open. "There you go."
Daniel grinned and swung Ceri up into his arms, carrying her inside as she giggled.
"What is the significant of this?" Teal'c asked as they went in.
Jack closed the door. "It's called carrying your bride over the threshold, it's tradition."
"I see."
Daniel put Ceri down and they shrugged out of their jackets, hanging them up. Exploring the house, finding everything they owned was now there, Daniel's apartment and what Ceri's had in her room at Jack's had been moved in by them and other officers and staff at the SGC. They'd also taken liberty of making sure everything of value was put up or behind glass within cabinets.
"You guys thought of everything," Daniel noted excitedly.
"Oh yes, we did, even the nursery." Jack said grinning like a kid.
"Really?"
"Really."
He looked at Ceri, who grinned eagerly and they took off for the nursery, going in. "Wow!"
A large painting of the Earth had been airbrushed onto one wall; representation of Tallisia on the other, above the ceiling had been painted black and was covered in glow-in-the-dark stars. Which had also been put all around the room. A crib was set up, ready to be used. There was a small wardrobe, which had the solar system painted on it. A change table and cabinet that held everything they were going to need.
"It's amazing," Ceri said and hugged Jack. "Thank you dad."
"Well we all did it," he admitted.
"I helped too," a voice announced behind them.
Ceri turned, seeing her father. "Papa," she rushed over and hugged him.
"You didn't think you could just up and get married without my knowing did you?" He asked grinning. "Or announce I'm going to be a grandfather."
"It never crossed my mind, papa."
Amon shook Daniel's hand, and then pulled him into the embrace. "You take care of her now son," he whispered.
"I will," the younger man agreed, feeling very much part of their family. "Papa."
Amon smiled at that. "I can live with that."
"Well, lets go celebrate," Jack insisted. "We set the Christmas tree back up, put the presents back and everything."
Leaving the nursery they went to the living room, the tree was set up in one corner, cover in decorations and lights. Mistletoe had been placed around the room also. Jack and Sam got everyone a drink, orange juice for Daniel, Ceri and Mac.
"To Daniel and Ceri, a long and happy life together," Amon toasted the happy couple; they drank and then sat together, chatting. "So Jack, when are you going to stop 'shaking up', as Jacob calls it, and make an honest woman of Sam?"
Jack nearly spat out his drink, flustered. "Shaking up. Hey, I married Sam on Ambrosia," he defended himself as his friends laughed.
"I think dad means a wedding here on Earth, complete with wedding ring," Sam clarified.
"Oh?" Jack played with the label on his bear bottle. "Well, we might have a problem there, the Air Force still has the 'no fraternization' rule, one which General Hammond is turning a blind eye to for the moment."
"There has to be a way, Jack," Daniel put forth.
"Sure I could retire. Again."
"We need you Jack," Harm noted. "Not an option."
"I could resign and come in as a civilian advisor." Sam declared.
"We'll think of something." Jack said, solemnly. He didn't want Sam to give up her Air Force career and he'd told General Hammond that, the General had said he'd try and work something out.
They heard the doorbell ring. "I get it," Ceri offered and got up, giving her glass to Daniel. She went through to the front door and opened it after sensing whom it was. "General Hammond, come in."
"Thank you," He did. "How do you like the house, Ceri?"
"It's fantastic General, thank you," she said as she shut the door, taking his jacket she hang it up before showing him into the living room. "Can I get you something to drink, sir?"
"No thank you, Ceri," he said warmly.
"Evening General," Sam greeted, as did everyone else.
"Good evening," he took a seat on Ceri's insistence. She sat once more next to Daniel, who handed her back her drink. George Hammond saw everyone waited for him to reveal his reason for dropping in. "I can't stay long," he began. "I just thought you'd like to know I spoke to the President about what has been occurring within SG-1 and we've came to an agreement."
"Which is sir?" Jack asked, at little hesitant.
"Well, he's abolishing the fraternization rule to let couples work together at the SGC," the General revealed. "There are conditions though."
"What are they, sir?" Sam inquired, she held tight to Jack's hand.
"Well, for one, you and Jack can't be in the same team Major, neither can Ceri and Daniel," he revealed. "I'm going to have to spilt up SG-1."
Mac didn't need to be a telepath or empathic to see that disturbed those with her, neither did Amon, who was.
"Isn't there anything you can do George to keep them together?" The Tok'ra asked.
"I'm afraid not," he told them. "When you come back in the New Year," he looked to Jack. "Colonel you'll still command of SG-1. Commander Rabb and Dr. Jackson will be on your team." He saw the stunned looks on their faces. Glancing to Sam. "Major Carter, you'll have command of SG-1alpha. And despite the fact you're a civilian Dr. O'Neill, you'll be 2IC to Major Carter. Teal'c will complete the team."
"General, forgive my ignorance, but how is that possible?" Mac asked.
"The President reviewed Dr. O'Neill's service record from Tallisia and made the decision. Since, while a member of the Tallisian Defense Force Dr. O'Neill held the rank of a Lt. Commander, with that in consideration, he decided she would be able to act as 2IC, even though she's a civilian."
That stunned Ceri. "Thank you sir," she said nervously. "I think."
"You'll be fine," he assured.
"George, how are you going to run SG-1alpha with their 2IC pregnant, you'll eventually be a member down." Amon noted.
"Which is why SG-1 and SG-1alpha will be working closely together until Dr. O'Neill is able to travel through the Stargate on a regular basis," the General announced and addressed Ceri again. "Dr. Frasier has cleared you for light Gate travel up until your fourth month. However since I doubt your husband will let you too far out of his sight, I suggested to the President that keeping the two teams working together as much as possible a good idea."
"Thank you sir."
He smiled. "Well, I have to go, I'm spending Christmas with my daughter and her family," he stood. "Merry Christmas everyone."
"Merry Christmas," they all bided.
Jack walked the General to the door. "Thank you sir."
"I did what I thought was right for everyone concerned Jack," George admitted putting his jacket back on. "I didn't want to lose my best people and I knew I would if I didn't do something."
"I understand sir."
He nodded. "Merry Christmas Jack."
"Merry Christmas sir." Jack opened the door and the General left. Shutting it again he went back to the living room his hands shoved into the front pockets of his jeans. "Well Amon, when you return to the Tok'ra, you'd better tell Jacob his little girl is going to be having a wedding on Earth."
Amon smiled. "I'll do that Jack."
Sam got to her feet, leaving her glass next to his beer bottle, slipping her arms around his waist. "Was that a proposal, Jack?"
"I believe it was Samantha," he said and wrapped his arms around her. "I'd get down on one knee, but the knees aren't too good in the cold."
She laughed, tears in her eyes. "I except."
"Thought you would," he smirked and dipped her as he kissed her, his friends, his family cheering.
"I believe the proper term here, would be 'get a room'," Teal'c stated and everyone laughed.
Jack straightened them. "I think then that's our cue to leave."
"Ours too," Harm agreed and he and Mac stood.
Amon and Teal'c did too. "We should be getting back to the base," the Tok'ra declared.
"Well come on kids, we'll drop you all off." Jack declared.
"No need, O'Neill, Amon Rhabb and I are capable of driving back ourselves." Teal'c announced.
"Okay," Jack agreed and throw the Jaffa the keys. "Take it easy on the roads."
"I will do so."
Daniel and Ceri walked them to the door; they got their jackets on. "We'll see you guys tomorrow," he said opening the door.
"Harm's house," Jack stated, and then grinned. "I love Christmas." He put his arm around Sam. "Come along dear."
She grinned. "See you tomorrow."
"Bye dad, Sam," both bided, chuckling as they walked away.
Harm gave his sister a hug. "See you tomorrow."
"You certainly will," she agreed. She gave Mac a hug too. "Thank you for all of this."
"You deserve it," Mac said.
"See you tomorrow Harm." Amon said.
"Bye dad," taking Mac's hand, he led her down the snowy path after Jack and Sam.
Amon gave Ceri a hug. "Bye darling."
"Bye papa."
Daniel slipped his arm around his wife as she was released. "Merry Christmas, papa."
"Merry Christmas Daniel. See you tomorrow."
Teal'c bowed and left with Amon, the two taking the SUV, heading back to the base, the Jaffa driving.
Daniel shut the door. "Alone at last," they returned to the living room. "I can't believe they did this."
"I can't believe they did it and we didn't find out," she declared. "They're good."
"Oh yeah," he wrapped his arms around her. "Our house. It has a nice ring to it."
"Yeah it does," she smiled and began unbuttoning his shirt. "It's kind of warm in here."
"It is a little," he said playing along as he removed his glasses; he managed to get them on the coffee table.
Ceri undid the last button and pushed the shirt from his shoulders. "Well I suggest we remove some of this clothing."
"Good idea," he agreed and cupped her face in his hands, kissing her, parting her lips, his tongue pushing past her teeth as the kiss deepened.
Clothing came off on the way to the bedroom as they kissed and caressed, being completely naked by the time they got to the already turned down bed. Daniel took a rosy nipple in his mouth and sucked and licked gently, knowing her breast were more sensitive now she was pregnant. He gently kneed the other breast with his hand, hearing her moan in delight. He knew that she liked it; he could feel what he was doing to her. He gave the other breast the same attention before moving, edging down her body, leaving wet kissed in his wake. She instinctively moved her legs apart as he settled between her thighs, parting the closely trimmed curls to suck and lick the sensitive skin, starting of slow, then faster.
She arched off the bed and he pushed her back down, holding her hips there as she whimpered in pleasure. "Oh god, Danny."
Patients my love, he sent to her telepathically and continued his onslaught.
She felt like she was going to explode, her body almost hummed in ecstasy. "Danny, please."
He knew she was close, he could feel it. So much so he was painfully aroused by it, her feelings were like a tidal wave, storming through him. She hit him with a telekinetic caress and he nearly lost it there and then, moving over her, he joined them with a less then gently thrust. She cried out wrapping her legs around his hips, her fingernails dug into his shoulder, as his movements increased.
"Oh god Ceri, so good," he moaned.
Ceri couldn't hold back the wave of pleasure that caught her. "Danny!" She cried out as it took her, her body began to spasm in ecstasy.
He didn't stop, thrusting a little harder, falling over the edge with her as she climaxed a second time, more intensely then the first sending them both into euphoria. He held back from collapsing on top of her, breathing hard as her body convulsed around him.
Ceri kissed him tenderly. "I love you so much."
"I love you too," he whispered. He moved, laying beside her, drawing the comforter over them and easing her back into his arms spent almost to exhaustion.
"How's your hand?" She asked.
"Not to bad, though I expect that's because of the painkillers," he remarked, flexing his bandaged hand. "Don't worry, I'll be fine." He stroked her hair, her head resting on his chest. "Are you all right?"
"I'm fine," she assured sleepily, her eyes closed. "We're both fine."
Smiling, Daniel drifted off to sleep himself.
Christmas Day:
Daniel sat with his wife by the Christmas tree, grinning. They had woken, made love, showered and dressed, then rushed down to open their presents. Wrapping paper now lay near the tree. He plucked the last present from where he'd hide it on the tree earlier, this one he'd arranged specially and had been holding onto it the whole time. He gave it too her. "Merry Christmas."
She took the small gift and removed the wrapping paper, finding a velvet ring box, opening it carefully, surprised by the gold band she found there. "Danny, it's beautiful."
He took the wedding band from the box and slipped it on the ring finger of her left hand. "I know I said it didn't matter, but I want every other man to know your mine."
The ring was engraved on the outside in ancient Tallisian, which to anyone who didn't know it, it looked like lines and squiggles. What it said was 'my wife, my love'. Inside the ring, Ceri had noticed it had been engraved 'Ceri Jackson'. She loved it. Leaning forward she kissed him, sucking seductively on his bottom lip. "I will always be yours, I love it. Thank you," she then took a small gift from where she'd hidden it earlier when they'd first come down, from the tree. "I guess we had the same thoughts."
Daniel opened it and found a gold band, also engraved on the outside, his in ancient Egyptian that said 'My love, my husband'. On the inside was his name. "I love it, Ceri, thank you," he put it on his finger and kissed her.
She settled in his arms. "I guess its true then, great minds do think a like."
He laughed. "I guess it is," he mused.
After a little breakfast, they gathered the presents they had for their family and friends up in a Santa sack and rugged up against the cold, leaving the house they walked down to Harm's. Jack and Sam were already there, as were Teal'c and Amon, Janet and Cassie Frasier arrived not long after them. They all sat in the living room and presents were opened after everyone admired the wedding bands Ceri and Daniel wore. There was a lot of laughter and teasing, though none seemed to mind, they were family after all.
To be continued…. (Okay, I'm not sure what ancient Egyptian actually looks like, but it sounded good at the time. The idea came from the fact I own a 'Lord of the Rings' ring. I also went back and make a few changers from 'Christmas Eve', sorry but I just couldn't go with having Ceri in the military. So I put her back as a civilian.)
