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.
Author's Note: Sorry these chapters are taking so long, I guess writers block is the course, it seems my muse takes off through the Stargate once and a while and leaves me to my own accord, then when he returns, he likes to pick things apart and makes me write them better then before. So it all takes time. I love my muse, he's so much fun. Well enough of that, I hope everyone enjoys this chapter, the next could end up being a little darker and may take time to write, so please be patient – A.S.
Thanks to: Winjan: It was a fun chapter the last one, I'm glad you liked it. I hope you enjoyed Jack and Sam's wedding.
Affairs of the HeartChapter Six: Meridian Sphere
Amon-Ra's mother shipHarm checked on Mac, and then settled back against the cell wall, she was still unconscious but thankfully the bleeding had stopped. Her shoulder would heal with Ciaran's help, it would go faster with medical treatment, but that wasn't going to happen at the moment.
The mission to P4X 2268 had ended up going completely to hell, so had the rescue mission. The only positive aspect was SG-13 hadn't been captured and had returned to Stargate Command as ordered. Well he hoped. Harm scrubbed his hands over his face, some leader he was, and once again he'd lead him team into trouble. Of course the only consoling fact was usually they got themselves out of trouble, but not this time. They needed some of SG-1's luck to rub off on them. They were a good team – his 2IC, Captain Elliot Davidson, US Air Force, was young but hardly green. He was also a pilot, they'd gone flying together a few times in jets borrowed from the Air Force and the occasional death glider. He was a good man, and Harm trusted and respected him, all of them.
Lt. Mitchell Read, also Air Force, was younger again. He liked to blow things up and he did it well. He was the most patient man Harm had even known and you could count on him. He was also a big softy at heart, especially when it came to his wife and kids, twin boys, only two years old and so like their father.
Lt. Cameron Williams, Air Force, was his science officer, the man could pull anything apart, tell you why it worked, and then put it back together working better then it had before. He was like a mini Carter at times. The team had given him the nickname 'Tinker'; he took it in good humor.
The last member of their team and the youngest, was Lt. Jodie Ryans, US Navy, she'd come onto the team just before Harm had taken over. She was a linguist, trained by Daniel and Ceri. Like all women at the SGC, she'd been smitten by Jackson, but soon found out he was well and truly taken. The team members were protective of her, she was their kid sister, and as they informed her it was their duty to look after her – off world and on. She's just laughed and told them they were the best 'big brothers' a girl could have.
And Mac trusted and liked each and every one of them and they liked her, making them a family.
"Sir," Davidson hankered down next to him. "Everyone's fine, Commander. How's the Colonel?"
"The bleedings stopped, but she's still out of it."
His 2IC pulled off his cap and ran his fingers through his short brown hair, there was a lot of determination in his brown eyes. "Sir, have you been able to sense Dr. Jackson and his wife, or Teal'c?"
Harm nodded. "Teal'c is in the next cell, as for Ceri and Daniel, they're on the ship, I know that," he revealed. It bothered him a little that he couldn't pin point their precise location, which mean only one thing, some one didn't want him to. "Damn, Amon-Ra is onboard."
"You're sure sir?" Lt. Williams asked him, he'd over heard them. Realizing what he said, he shook his head. "Of course you're sure, sorry sir."
Managing a smile, Harm chuckled a little. "Don't sweet it, Cam."
They heard the familiar thump of marching Jaffa, those near the cell door moved back as two Jaffa entered, staff weapons at the ready. Another walked directly in, going to the fallen Marine, without a word he knelt, lifted her from the floor and stood.
Harm was instantly on his feet. "Where are you taking her?"
His answer was a staff weapon in his face. The Jaffa didn't answer, he just walked out carrying the Marine, the Jaffa backed out and the cell door was closed, their footsteps fading as they walked away.
Davidson had also gotten to his feet. "Sir, Amon-Ra maybe going to help the Colonel. We've seen him show compassion before."
What disturbed Harm was the fact it was possible. "Yeah." What really bothered him was it was also possible Amon-Ra had realized Ciaran was now in Mac.
"She'll be fine sir," Jodie Ryans assured, like the rest of the team she was on her feet.
He gave her a bit of a smile. "You're right. Hell has no fury like a pissed off US Marine, right?"
"Right sir."
On the pel'tec of the mother ship, Ceri and Daniel were forced onto their knees before Amon-Ra, their vests and weapons had been taken while they were unconscious; their hands had been bond before they were brought to the pel'tec.
Amon-Ra's host was a handsome young man with startling emerald green eyes; he smiled at those who now were at his mercy. "Welcome Dr. O'Neill, Dr. Jackson." He rose from his throne. "You're friends are safe, even the Shal'va."
"What do you want?" Daniel asked calmly, adding. "Besides a good decorator?"
The Goa'uld laughed, he now stood behind Daniel; grabbing a handful of his hair he reefed his head back. "It would give me great honor to sever your head from your shoulders, Daniel Jackson, but there are others who want you alive." He released him.
Ceri pushed back her fear, turning to her husband; she kept her voice steady she wouldn't let the Goa'uld see fear in her eyes. "You're popular."
"Better then only being worth a days rations."
"He was joking, Daniel," she reminded.
"I know."
One of the Jaffa, who had brought them in, struck him hard between the shoulder blades with his staff weapon, hissing: "Silence!"
Amon-Ra grabbed Ceri by the hair, stopping her from helping Daniel; he pulled her back so she was up against him. "I'm not ready to give either of you up yet, no matter how much you're both worth."
A woman all in black walked in carrying a device, the Jaffa who had knocked Daniel down, picked him up, slamming him back onto his knees and forced his head down, holding him there as the device was put to the back of Daniel's neck and activated.
The pain was brief but felt like she'd stabbed a knife into his spin. "What the hell was that?"
Amon-Ra chuckled as Ceri received the same while he held her. When it was done he pushed her forward, and moved away from her.
She sat back on her heals. "What have you done?"
"I gave myself a guarantee you will remain with me as my slaves," he informed and sat back on his throne.
Daniel frowned. "You've injected us with something."
The Goa'uld smiled. "A very deadly toxin, while you remain with me the suppressant will be given to you daily in your food. Leave or displease me and it's withheld. After five days you die a very painful death, your bodies shut down and you bleed to death internally."
"You son of a bitch!"
"Now, now, Dr. Jackson," he wagged a finger at him. "You do want the suppressant in your food this evening don't you?" he stated, then addressed the woman. "Take them to my private chambers and have them dressed appropriately, and then bring them back."
"Yes my Lord."
Forced to their feet they left the pal'tec, being taking thought the ship to Amon-Ra's chambers where their hands were freed. The appropriate clothing wasn't what either would call appropriate. Daniel felt like he was part of a Mardi Gras, every stitch of clothing was silk, his arms were bare, since he wore a light blue vest that was laced up. The brown trousers he had on being comfortable but not him, they did match the shoes he'd been told to wear.
Ceri wasn't thinking Mardi gars, she was thinking Arabian Nights, but without the veil. Her arms and midriff were bare; the harem pants had slits up each side and matched the soft shoes she wore. She had a swimsuit at home that had more material in the top then the one she know wore. The woman, who'd escorted them there, undid her hair from its usual pony tale and did it in an elaborate style, along with make-up on her face. When she was finished they were taken back.
Amon-Ra was pleased. "Yes, very nice. From now on you are both my lotar, you will serve me and in return I will keep you alive and your friends will be set free."
"That's it?" Daniel asked. "Forgive my stupidity, but that's all you want?"
"My revenge is a one I know will bring you both pain," he stated. "For the rest of your lives or for as long as I believe you are both worth keeping around, you will remain my lotar. Which means you will not be able to leave, you will not see your daughter again. That is my revenge."
Ceri's heart broke into a thousand pieces, he was right. A sob escaped her lips and Daniel drew her into his arms, holding her tight. He hurt just as much as she did, but he wasn't going to let the bastard see it.
"We will be arriving at Charokeea in a few minutes, you may bid your friends goodbye when they are taken to the Chappa'ai. Until then you will remain here at my side, speak either of you, unless spoken too and I'll have your tongues removed," he ordered. "Including telepathy."
The Jaffa ushered them closer, leaving them stand on Amon-Ra's left, the woman who had been escorting them, left and returned with a jug of wine, handing it too Daniel and a golden goblet to Ceri, before leaving though she saw the pain in both their eyes, but there was nothing she could do.
Amon-Ra sat back, smiling. For now he had won.
Harm and his team were led through the corridors to the ring room, having been given their vests back. They found Mac was already there. She crossed quickly to him, going into his arms. "Are you all right?" He asked.
She nodded. "They put me into a sarcophagus, I woke up healed and was brought here. What's going on?"
"I don't know."
They were ushered onto the ring platform and transported down to the surface of the planet near the gate, a number of Jaffa were waiting for them. They were ushered over to the DHD and a GDO was shoved into Harm's hand. He looked confused to Mac, who shrugged.
The ring device activated again and they saw Daniel and Ceri transported down with Teal'c and Amon-Ra's First Prime. Teal'c was ushered over to SG-2.
"What's going on?" Harm asked him.
"I have no idea, Harmon Rabb?" He answered.
With a nod from the First Prime, Daniel and Ceri went over to them.
"What's going on?" Harm asked again.
"You're being sent home," his sister answered.
"It seems we're staying," Daniel concluded.
"You're what?" Teal'c blurted uncharacteristic for him.
He smiled at that. "If we leave, we'll die. Amon-Ra had us injected with a poison, he'll have a suppressant administered to us in our food every day, if we leave, we'll be dead in five days."
"This is his revenge," Ceri said softly, tears in her eyes. She hugged her brother. "Take care of Callie."
"I will, until you get home, we'll find a way," he promised her.
"I know," she stepped back.
Daniel hugged Mac, without the Jaffa seeing; he slipped the blood-socked material into the back pocket of her trousers he'd been hiding. He'd cut his hand on purpose so they'd have a blood sample to take back. "Tell dad, I'll look after Ceri."
"I will," she guaranteed, understanding.
"Enough!" N'tar, the First Prime called out.
Ceri ignored him and hugged Teal'c. "Look after them T."
"I will Ceri Jackson," he pledged and then draw Daniel into the same embrace.
It took the Jaffa guards to separate them, pushing Daniel and Ceri back. Davidson dialed the Gate and it opened. Harm sent through his IDC and reluctantly they walked through, leaving two of their own behind.
General Hammond was waiting for them at Stargate Command; they walked down the ramp, the Gate closing behind them. "Commander Rabb, welcome home," he looked around. "Where are Dr. O'Neill and Dr. Jackson?"
"There on P4X 4599 sir, Amon-Ra has them. I'll explain everything in a moment sir," Harm stated and looked to Mac. "Go!"
She nodded and dated off towards the infirmary.
Hammond was losing patients. "Commander?"
"Sir, Amon-Ra has poisoned Daniel and Ceri, if they don't receive a suppressant in their food everyday, in five days they'll be dead," he revealed. "Daniel slipped a blood-socked piece of material to Colonel Mackenzie, if Dr. Frasier can come up with an antidote then we can go in and get them."
"All right, get to the infirmary yourselves, I'll contact Colonel O'Neill and his team, they're with the Tok'ra, who were tracking the mother ship you were on."
"Yes sir," Harm said and led his team out of the Gate room.
A half an hour later, Jack, Sam and SG-3 and 4 returned with Amon Rhabb and Jacob Carter. The General dismissed SG-3 and 4 and ushered everyone else to the infirmary lab explaining that Dr. Frasier was working on trying to isolate the poison to find an antidote. Harm, Mac and Teal'c were still there, having showered, changed, they were exhausted, but refused to leave. As soon as Sam walked in she sensed the symbiote. "Sir?" She addressed the General.
"Major, it's all right," the General stated, having been informed of what had happened in the debriefing. "He's Tok'ra."
"What?" Jack asked confused.
"Sarah has a Tok'ra symbiote inside her," Harm explained. "He was our contact on P4X 2268, Amon-Ra got to him first, we were caught trying to get him free. His host was dying, when Sarah was hit by a staff blast, Ciaran jumped into her before his host died. Amon-Ra caught us all and put Sarah into a sarcophagus to finish healing her."
Amon was just glad both were alive, he hugged his son. "Are you all right?"
"I left them behind dad," he said quietly.
"You did what you had too, son," he told him and then gave Mac a hug too. "We'll find a way to get them back, honey."
"I know dad."
He turned, blinking his eyes slowly as he did, giving Adrick control. "Dr. Frasier, I'd like to offer my assistance."
"I welcome it," she declared, gesturing him closer. "I've never seen anything like this."
He took a look under the microscope at the blood sample, giving his full attention to the doctor and the problem at hand.
Selmac now had control of Jacob, speaking not to Mac but her symbiote. "Do you have the information you were sent to retrieve?"
Ciaran took control of his host with her permission. "Yes, if the General will permit me to contract the Tok'ra, I'll pass it onto the council."
Hammond nodded. "Go a head."
Both of them left together.
"Is Mac handling all this?" Sam asked Harm.
"At the moment she's more concerned about Ceri and Daniel, then her own situation," he answered.
She knew by the tone of his voice there was more to it. "Harm?"
He sighed. "Ciaran is Nitara's mate."
That surprised them all. "How's is that going to effect your relationship with Mac?" Jack questioned.
"Sarah has to decide whether or not she wants to remain blended or not, what ever her decision, it won't change how I feel about her." Harm revealed.
His friend wasn't that convinced. He drew Harm away from the others. "Hey, look, Mac loves you. She's not going to leave."
"I hope not."
"Harm," he put a comforting hand on his friends shoulder. "You and Mac have something special, don't let fear get in the way."
"I don't want to lose her." Harm admitted.
"You won't," Jack assured, he removed his hand, suggesting. "Look, Harm, I don't know how it works, but have you thought about going through the bonding ceremony with Mac. Like Daniel did with Ceri?"
"I don't think it'll work."
"Why because your half human?" Jack shook his head. "Daniel's human and it worked for him. Ceri said Mac has a gift. Give it a try, take the chance."
Harm nodded. Jack patted his shoulder once more and went back to his wife.
When Mac and Jacob returned, Harm was still standing away from the others; she walked slowly towards him, leaving Jacob to go over to his daughter and friends.
'He's worried you're going to leave him because of me.' Ciaran told Mac.
'I'm not going to, I love him."
'Then tell him, be with him, Sarah,' the Symbiote advised.
Mac sighed. 'Why did you leave Nitara?'
'I didn't, her host was injured, she was removed and placed in stasis, I didn't even know she had a new host until Harm told me. I've been uncover for that long,' he explained.
She slipped into Harms waiting arms, smiling warmly. "You look like hell."
"Thanks."
She rested her head against his chest. "I'm sorry Harm."
He held her close, rubbing her back, as he kissed the top of her head. "I love you, Sarah," he whispered.
"I love you too, Harm and I'm not leaving you," she promised, looking up into his blue eyes. "If Ciaran wants to remain blended with me, well I can handle that, but he stays on my rules."
Harm chuckled softly. "I see you two have a lot to talk about."
"Yeah I suppose we do," she mussed; she rose up on her toes and kissed his lips. "We're going to get through this, Harm, I promise."
"I know," he said, and then cupped her face in his hands and kissed her deeply, right there in the infirmary, not caring who saw them.
Hammond ignored them; Jack smiled, and then went back to bantering with Jacob. Sam was too busy with Janet and Adrick to notice, so she missed it. Teal'c merely raised an eyebrow, paying more attention to Alyn, who had walked in carrying baby Callie, who was obviously distressed. Pharaoh was at her side, a little more protective then usual.
Jack hurried over to them, being given Callie, the infant settled a little in his arms, snuggling against his chest. "Hey there darlin, everything is all right," he said tenderly.
"She just started crying, what has happened?" Alyn asked.
Sam had joined them. "Ceri and Daniel are being held hostage by Amon-Ra, he poisoned them both, if they leave they die, while they remain he gives them a suppressant," she explained, and then an idea came to her. "Would Shalimar be able to help?"
With a blink of her eyes, Shalimar had control. "I have had some experience with poisons Major Carter."
"We can use all the help we can get." Sam informed.
"Go," Jack insisted. "I'll look after Callie."
Nodding Shalimar went with Sam to help Janet and Adrick.
Jack found a chair and sat down, he let his granddaughter grab his finger. "We'll get your mommy and daddy home, sweetheart, one way or another," he promised silently as Pharaoh settled at his feet.
JAG Headquarters: Falls Church, Virginia, Washington DC
Admiral AJ Chegwidden strolled through ops, returning from lunch with the secNav. He had a nagging feeling something was wrong, very wrong. Usually when he felt like this, it had something to do with Rabb and Mackenzie, but neither was under his command any longer, both now work out of Cheyenne Mountain and what ever they were doing, it had nothing to do with Deep Space Radar Telemetry. He wasn't that stupid.
Stopping outside Lt. Roberts office, he made a conscious decision, if anyone know how Rabb and Mackenzie was, it was Roberts. He stepped into the office. "Lieutenant Roberts."
Bud got quickly to his fee. "Sir?"
"At ease Lieutenant," he ordered. "Have you heard from Rabb or Mackenzie lately?"
"Not for a while, Admiral. I think the last email Harriet and I received from them was about a week ago," Bud told him. "Is something wrong sir?"
"I'm not sure. Thank you, Lieutenant," he said, then walked out, spotting Gunnery Sergeant Galendez. "Gunny, my office."
Victor Galendez didn't ask why, he just followed the Admiral, who shut the door when they were in his office.
"Gunny, I have a feeling Rabb and Mackenzie are in trouble. Despite the fact they are not under my command any more, I need to know."
He didn't need to say any more, Victor understood. "What do you want me to do, sir?" He asked.
AJ liked that about the man. "Get both of us on the first flight available to Colorado Springs. We're going to Cheyenne Mountain to get some answers."
"Aye sir," he acknowledged. "Anything else sir?"
"Keep this to yourself Gunny."
"Aye sir," he said again, then turned on his heal and left the office.
Two hours later, the Admiral and Gunny were on their way to Colorado Springs, JAG was left under the command of the senior office and lawyer, Commander Sturgis Tuner, who didn't ask any questions. Just inquired how the Admiral was to be contacted in an emergency. AJ had had told him to ring his cell phone and walked out with the Gunny at his side.
Cheyenne Mountain: Stargate Command
Sergeant Walter Harriman knocked on the door to the General's office. "Sir, there's an Admiral Chegwidden on the surface demanding to see you. He has a Gunnery Sergeant with him."
Hammond sighed, it wasn't everyday the Navy's Judge Advocate General paid you a visit. "Have them escorted down, Sergeant and ask Commander Rabb to come to my office."
"Yes sir," he said then walked out.
The General sat back in his chair, he had a feeling it was all going to hit the fan very quickly.
Harm arrived first, Pharaoh at his side since he had Callie with him. He'd promised Ceri, he'd look after her daughter, of course all of SG-1 and 2 had stepped up to lend a hand, giving Shalimar the time to help try and find an antidote. "General."
"Commander how is our girl today?" He asked.
"She's doing better sir, I think she senses we're doing all we can," he answered and took a seat on the General's gesture. "What can I do for you sir?"
"Admiral Chegwidden is on his way down with a Gunnery Sergeant."
"That would be Gunnery Sergeant Victor Galendez, sir." Harm informed. "The Gunny is a good Marine, he watches your back without you asking. Why are they here sir?"
"That's what I'd like to know, Harm," Hammond declared. "Has there been any progress in the lab?"
"They've isolated the poison sir, it's just a matter of time," he reported.
"Good. SG-3 returned from P4X 4599, they couldn't get into the village, but they were able to make contact with some of the young warriors, who are going to arrange a meeting with the elders. SG-3 will return in four hours, to meet with the Charokee elders, the young warriors promised to get them into the village without the Jaffa seeing them."
"Lets hope they do sir, it maybe our only way to contact Daniel and Ceri," Harm stated.
"SG-3 reported both Dr. Jackson and O'Neill were fine, they saw them in the village. According to the warriors, Amon-Ra gives them time alone each day, since he knows neither can leave, he doesn't both having them under guard at all times."
"He's being over confident," Harm declared. "Sounds like Apophis."
"He's like most Goa'uld, Harm, and he'll be defeated like Apophis was."
"Yes sir, he will."
"Now Commander, before the Admiral arrives, I'd like a nurse from my surrogate granddaughter," the General ordered lightly.
"Yes sir," the Commander said with a smile and stood, he walked around the desk and settled the baby in the General's arms, then returned to his own seat.
George Hammond was a grandfather twice over; being a surrogate one for little Callie was just as much of a joy. He smiled warmly. "She has her mother's eyes."
"Yes sir, she does, and a nose like Daniel's. She's going to be a heartbreaker when she grows up."
"That I'll believe, Commander."
Harm was going to comment when he felt it, the same sensation he got around his father or anyone with a symbiote. But he didn't sense his father or any of the others near by.
"Commander?"
He looked to the General. "I can sense a symbiote sir, and it's not anyone we know."
Hammond went on alert, nodding to his desk. "Top left draw, Commander."
Harm got up and went round, opening the draw he removed the 9-millimeter from it, checking it quickly. "Pharaoh, guard the General and Callie."
The dog got up and moved quickly to the General's side behind the desk where he couldn't be seen.
Harm closed the draw and went and stood near the door, keeping the hand with the pistol behind his back.
The Admiral and Gunnery Sergeant were shown in by an Airmen, who was quickly took up a position out side the door on a discreet hand signal from the Commander.
"Admiral Chegwidden," Hammond greeted, seeing Harm move he didn't react.
The Commander drew the 9-millimeter and pointed it at the Admiral's head. "Who are you and how did you get on Earth?"
Gunnery Sergeant Galendez went for his weapon, but found the airmen behind him had drawn his and had it pointed at his back, the weapon was taken from him. "What's going on, sir?" He asked.
"You've walked into something that's going to blow your mind, Gunny," Harm stated. "Now, Admiral, are you Goa'uld or Tok'ra?"
Chegwidden's eyes glowed briefly and he snarled at the Commander. "I am Tok'ra."
"Name?"
"I am Atum, I've been stuck on Earth since Ra's defeat. Going from host to host, I blended with AJ during the Vietnam War, saving his life."
Harm kept the gun on him. 'Nitara, is Atum one of the Tok'ra?'
'Yes, we thought he was dead. He was undercover in Ra's court. Ask him who saved him on Ralus?'
"Who saved you on Ralus?"
Atum chuckled. "The rather headstrong and beautiful Nitara, though I take it the little bird has found a new host."
'That's Atum, he was the only one who ever called me little bird."
Harm lowered the weapon. "Nitara has vouched for him, General," he told him and nodded to the airmen, who lowed his own weapon and gave the Gunny back his. Harm tucked the 9-millimeter back in waistband of his trousers. "We had to make sure, Atum."
"I understand."
"I wish I did sir," the Gunny declared confused.
"Lets see if we can clear things up then, Gunnery Sergeant, if you'll take a seat," the General ordered.
Atum gave control back to his host, which AJ appreciated. "Well General, hell'va welcoming you give." He stated curious about the baby.
"We had to make sure, Admiral," Hammond stated as they all took a seat. He addressed the Gunny. "Gunnery Sergeant, you've just stumbled onto one the biggest military secrets known to man."
"We've been taken over by alien's sir," the Gunny remarked lightly.
"Not quiet, Gunny, but close." Harm mused. He sensed his 2IC was in the control room. Davidson, I'm in the General's office, can you come and get Callie and take her to the Colonel? He asked and read his 2IC's thoughts for the answer. "The Goa'uld have been trying to take Earth but haven't succeeded yet." He said, not missing a beat.
Captain Davidson arrived, using the door leading to the conference room. "Sir's, I'll take the little munchkin to the Colonel." He offered after being gestured in.
"Thank you, Captain." Hammond said and let the Captain take the baby from his arms.
Pharaoh got to his feet and followed the Captain out, staying with his charge.
Victor Galendez was a little surprised by the dog. "Sir, excuse me for asking, but isn't it a little unusual to have a baby and a dog on a top secret military base?"
Hammond smiled, knowing Harm had telepathically asked Davidson to come and get the baby. "If Callie were any ordinary baby, then it would be, Gunny, but due to the fact her mother isn't from this planet, it's not safe or practical to have her looked after by just anyone."
AJ glanced at his former officer, who was smiling. "She's not yours is she?"
Harm chuckled. "No sir, she's not," he revealed, his smile went quickly. "Callie is my niece, her parents are at this moment being held by a Goa'uld named Amon-Ra. He's poisoning them."
There was a blink of eyes and Atum was back in control. "That traitor is still alive?"
"He is, you know of him?"
"Amon-Ra is the reason I was left on Earth after Ra was overthrown. He knew of the rebellion and but instead of revealing this information to Ra, he told him I was of the Tok'ra. I was lucky to escape Ra's wraith," Atum informed, he blinked and gave control back to AJ, who frowned. "I really hate it when he does that."
"Sir's, excuse me, but I'm a little confused here." Gunny interrupted.
"The Goa'uld and Tok'ra are symbiotic life forms," Harm explained. "The Goa'uld take over a host and refer to themselves as God's. The Tok'ra however blend with their hosts and live in harmony with them, sharing the body."
"So you have something inside you?" The Gunny guessed from the previous conversation that the Commander had a symbiote.
"Yes, they're like a snake, they attach themselves to the host's brain, the Tok'ra don't control their hosts like the Goa'uld do," Harm explained. "Nor do they use a sarcophagus."
"Commander," AJ broke into the conversation. "You said the baby was your niece?"
"Yes sir. Callie's mother is my half sister."
"The Commander's father is a Tallisian, he's also Tok'ra." Hammond added.
"Wait, sir, you're not human?" Victor asked staring at Rabb.
"Half human, Gunny, my mother was human."
"Well that explains your eyes sir," he stated.
AJ looked, taking note of Harm's eyes, the silver and gold within the blue. "So your father didn't die in Russia?"
"No, that was all a elaborate scheme to get him off Earth, he was picked up by his people after he was shot down and the conspiracy put into action. He returned to Tallisia and his family there, my sister was born after his return, however because the Goa'uld wanted him so badly, after her birth he left to save them, going back to the Tok'ra. He's blended with Adrick." Harm revealed. "And at the moment is in the lab trying to help find the antidote to save Ceri and her husband."
Atum consulted with his host, letting him speak for them both. "Atum would like to help, he had a lot of access to the lab Amon-Ra used while in league with Ra." AJ offered.
"All right," Hammond agreed, he had a plan. "Commander, take the Admiral to the lab. Gunnery Sergeant, I'd like a word."
Harm nodded, standing he showed the Admiral out. Leaving the Gunny with Hammond.
Victor had a feeling this General wanted his assistance. "What can I do to help, sir?"
Hammond smiled. "I'd like you to undertake a mission for me, it'll be dangerous and is strictly voluntary."
"Yes sir. Where do you need me to go and what do you want me to do, sir."
"I want you to go with SG-3 when they return to P4X 4599 and remain there, blend in with the natives and be our eyes and ears," the General offered. "It's a female dominated world, but the elders of the village have consented to help us. Our advantage will be the Goa'uld and Jaffa won't recognize you, you'll be able to move more freely on the planet."
"I'll do what I can sir," the Gunny agreed. Hell who wouldn't, he was going to go to another planet, and be an intergalactic James Bond so to speak.
The General picked up the phone and spoke into it. "Have Colonel McConnell come to my office… Thank you." He hung up. "Lt. Colonel Marcus McConnell will brief you fully and give you a run down on the Stargate, consider yourself TAD to SG-3, Gunnery Sergeant."
"Yes sir."
P4X 4599
Victor Galendez was hankered down next the team leader of SG-3, looking at the temple through binoculars from the hiding spot in the undergrowth. It was late afternoon, a man and women sat on the stairs of the temple in the cool of the oncoming evening. He noted everything as he watched them, their body language, facial expressions, the comfort they gave each other with simple touches. He took note of where the Jaffa was standing, the exits and entrances into the temple, the mother ship that preached on top of it. Hell if anyone had said a few days ago he'd been on an alien planet doing recon, he would have said they were nuts, but here he was.
He lowered the binoculars. "You said Dr. O'Neill was a telepath right?"
"An M-12, the highest ever recorded on her planet." McConnell answered. He like Galendez and it wasn't just because he was a fellow Marine, but because he knew what he was doing and he wasn't afraid to do it.
The Gunny handed back the binoculars to the Colonel. "Could she hear my thoughts if I directed them at her?"
"They both could," the Colonel responded, and then explained. "Dr. Jackson can assess his wife's abilities because of the bonding they went though. It's complicated, but trust me when I say he'll know just as she will."
Victor checked the 9-millimeter, and then tucked it back into its hiding place within the vest he wore over his shirt. His clothing looked like any the Charakee people wore, shirt, vest and trousers made from a rough woven fabric. His boots were of soft leather and laced together with leather ties. His hair had been a problem though; it had been short, very short. A quick visit to PX 3589 had solved that problem. The people of Ambrosia had a hair tonic that after rubbed in worked miracles, within an hour there was a thick head of hair on his head that came to his collar. On arrival on Charakeea, he'd ran his fingers though his hair a few times to mess it up and he hadn't shaven since leaving Washington. He looked like he belonged on Charakeea. "I'm going to make contact with the good doctors. Hold the fort, Colonel."
"We'll be here if you need us, Gunny." McConnell informed.
Scrambling away, the Gunny found his contact just on the outskirts of the village, an Amazon of a woman, about his height, she wore a dress made from the same rough weave that his clothes were made form. Her long black hair was pulled back into two braids and she had soft leather shoes on her feet.
She greeted him with a nod. "You are Vic'tor?"
"Yes, you're Juanita?"
"I am, come," she grabbed his arm, and pulled him along with her. "You are to act as my husband, walk slightly behind me unless I gesture you to my side. Understood?"
"Got it?"
She released him and continued on, making sure he was only a step or so behind her. As they neared the temple, she gestured him closer. "You have a plan?" She asked keeping her voice down.
"Yeah, I just need to get close to the temple," he informed.
"Follow," she insisted.
Victor did as he was told, markets were spread out across the square in front of the temple. Children played in a small clearing before the stairs. A ball the children were playing with rolled to his feet and he took advantage of it, kicking it hard. It rolled directly at the two sitting on the stairs. The children ran after it, the diversion set.
"Go," Juanita hissed into his ear. "The Jaffa are not concerned with a game, go be a part of it."
He did just that, the children enjoying themselves and he was too, but he was also making sure he got close to the steps. Grinning at the young couple when he did, bowing, he put a hand to his chest in a sign of greeting he'd been taught. "Greetings of welcome."
"Greetings of welcome," Daniel responded.
I'm Gunnery Sergeant Galendez, act natural, he thought to them and pretended to find relief in sitting on the stairs for a few minutes.
Who sent you? Ceri's voice sounded in his head.
General Hammond, he thought back. SG-3 is hankered down in the undergrowth. "Children, have so much energy."
Daniel gave Ceri's hand a gentle squeeze, smiling at the children. "More then any of us at times," he said aloud but asked telepathically. You have news?
I have, they've isolated the poison, and it's just a matter of time before the doc finds an antidote, he thought to them, finding it harder then he could have imagined. I'm going to be your contact while you're on Charakeea. He looked back. "You have children?"
"A daughter," Ceri answered, adding. There maybe a problem there, Dr. Frasier's antidote may only work on Daniel, it was his blood she was given.
Juanita noticed N'tar, Amon-Ra's First Prime, was making his way down the steps. "Vic'tor, enough talk, come!" She called out.
He rolled his eyes and stood, turning. "A man's work is never down, I bid you goodbye my new friends."
Daniel and Ceri got to their feet. "I hope we may talk again, Vic'tor," he said smiling. "I'm Daniel, this is my wife Ceri."
"An honor, until next time new friends," Victor said, and then hurried back to Juanita.
"That was close," she whispered, using one of the stalls as a cover, they watched N'tar have the young couple forcibly escorted into the temple. "You got what you needed?"
"For now," he announced. "Lets get out of here, I need to pass on a message."
"Then we leave," she said.
He followed a step behind has required. Out of sight though he walked beside her. "Who was the big guy who interrupted us?"
"That was N'tar, the God's First Prime. He watches the lotar closely, you'll have to be careful with him."
"Got it." They meet up with Colonel McConnell and the rest of SG-3. Hankering down, he came straight to the point. "Dr. O'Neill is concerned Dr. Frasier's antidote may only work on Dr. Jackson, since it was his blood she has."
"I'll pass that on. We saw what happened, watch your back Gunny," the Colonel advised.
"Will do sir."
"I'll shell watch out for your man, human," Juanita declared. "No harm will come to him while he is in my care."
McConnell couldn't help but smile, as did the other members of SG-3. "Well I'm sure he's in good hands, Juanita," he stated. "We'll make contact in two days at oh five hundred," he handed Galendez a radio and backpack. "Don't get caught with that."
"No a chance sir." He assured and tucked it into his vest and shouldered the pack.
"Good man," he nodded to Juanita, who returned the gesture. "Lets move out guys."
Victor and Juanita returned to the village, she took him to her home; inside they could talk freely without worrying about being over heard. "You may sleep over there," she pointed to the sleeping matt in the far corner of the home, which consisted of only three rooms. "My room is behind that door," she pointed to the left, then to the right. "There is the bathing room."
"Reminds me of an apartment I once had," Victor remarked.
Juanita lit the lamps. "Sit and I will tell you more of my people and planet."
They talked as day turned to night, pausing only to make a meal, which Victor was informed all meals were his duty. He just grinned and told her she was putting her life in his hands then. Juanita just laughed at that and informed him she'd out lived two husbands so far.
They settled into a routine, getting along fine, Juanita always made sure they were in a position to observe the two lotar when they were away from the temple and ship. Victor leant a lot from the Charakee woman, including her language, which he picked up easy enough. The message he received though wasn't what he expected on his second day there.
It was relayed from an Alkesh clocked in orbit around the planet. "Dr. Frasier needs a blood sample from Ceri," Jack O'Neill informed from the cargo ship.
"You're kidding right, sir?"
"Afraid not, Gunny. What's the matter, I thought you Marines were good at getting the impossible done."
"Impossible, yes, sir. Miracles, well they take a little longer." Victor declared.
"Well be waiting for you near the Stargate at seventeen hundred Gunny, do your best."
"Yes sir." He sighed and tucked the radio back into his vest. Returning to Juanita's home.
"There is a problem?" She asked, reading the expression on his face.
"I need to get a blood sample from Dr. O'Neill."
"Not an easy request."
"By seventeen hundred this afternoon," he added.
She looked at him confused. "Seventeen hundred?"
"Sorry, um twilight this afternoon."
"Oh, that does make it more difficult, but not impossible," she declared. "The Elders are meeting with the God Amon-Ra at one after high sun, today; his lotar will accompany him. I will address the elders and request our attendance. You can get your blood sample then."
"All right," he nodded thinking it through. "It could work."
"Excellent. Now my 'husband' you have morning meal to prepare."
Victor chuckled and went on with his domestic duties.
Juanita was good to her word, she spoke to the Elders and got herself and Victor invited to the meeting, she was to represent the Warriors, where he was to serve the Elders. So she spent the rest of the morning instructing Victor on what he was to do, how he was to serve and to which person first. By the time they were ready to leave, he was confident enough to make to appear he'd been doing it all his life.
The meeting was held in the largest of the buildings in the village, Juanita ushered Victor into the kitchen area of the hall, and both noticed the large crate with Amon-Ra's crest on it. So they spoke of nothing incriminating. "Are you ready?"
"As I'll ever be," he agreed, he had the small kit containing the syringe hidden in his vest pocket.
"Then I'll leave you to your work."
"Thank you Juanita, for this chance."
She gave him a warm smile. "You remind me of my first husband," she caressed his cheek gently with callused fingers. "Do not die foolishly as he did."
"I will try not to," he promised.
"Good," she kissed his cheek and then left.
Victor smiled to himself and got on with the preparations, not only within the kitchen but the meeting hall itself, making sure all was ready for the Elders. Who arrived without fanfare, greeting each other warmly and then himself and Juanita, treating him like an old friend, even though they knew what he was doing. The Elders took their positions behind their chairs as the Jaffa guards entered the room.
N'tar then entered. "Bow before your God!"
They all did so respectfully, even though none believed Amon-Ra was in fact a god. He entered the room, smiling, dressed like regally. His lotar behind him, also dressed more regally then before, neither smiled though. Two Jaffa blocked the doorway so no one may be allowed to enter and no one was able to leave.
Amon-Ra sat on the throne he'd ordered constructed, so he sat slightly above his subjects, his lotar either side of him. He gestured for the Elders to sit, which they did, Juanita along with them.
Victor moved into the kitchen, collecting the jug of spring water, he returned and filled all the Elders cups as they aired their concerns to the 'God'. Lastly he filed Juanita's cup and then went back to the kitchen area.
Amon-Ra found the proceedings tiresome, he gestured Daniel forward with his hand. "Bring me wine."
"Yes my lord," he answered and along with Ceri slipped into the kitchen area. When he saw Victor, he shook his head slowly and hurried to the crate, opening it, he removed the contents, laying all out on the preparations counter with Ceri's help.
Victor noticed Ceri looked a little pale. "My new friend, your wife looks unwell."
Daniel looked to the door with his eyes, seeing the Marine understood they were being listened too. "Our Master was not happy last night," he said, not disguising the worry in his voice, as he continued preparations.
"He won't be happy if we don't hurry up now," Ceri added. Snakehead didn't like the fact I refused to sleep with him; my punishment was no suppressant to the toxin.
"I will not keep you," Victor told them, but thought. Are you all right? I need a sample of your blood.
She nodded. I'll survive.
Daniel took both wine jug and goblet. "Rest a moment, I'll serve him," he said, and then left the room.
Victor quickly removed the kit and syringe; he expertly took blood from Ceri's arm, carefully packing everything away, hiding it once more. He took her arm, keeping his voice low. "Will you be all right?"
"Yes," she managed a smile. "I've been through worse."
He nodded, not quiet knowing how to take that, she was just an archaeologist/linguist, wasn't she? "We should get back out there."
She made sure her costume was back in place and walked out with him, retaking her place as he once again refilled cups.
Amon-Ra glanced her way, and then thrust the goblet into her hands, his eyes glowing for a moment before he turned away from her. After an hour of hearing the Elders prattle on he'd heard enough. He sat forward on his throne. "Your insignificant problems don't concern me," he looked to his lotar. "Prepare to leave."
"Yes my lord," both said and returned to the kitchen area, repacking the crate.
Daniel saw Ceri stumble and caught her. "Ceri?"
She managed a weak smile, remaining in his arms. "I'll be fine."
He kissed her forehead. "I'm sorry."
"For what?" She asked him, searching his eyes. "I knew what I was getting into from the moment we meet."
"You shouldn't be here though, you should be at home with our daughter," he said tenderly.
For a brief moment they shared each other's grief.
"We'll get home, Danny," she whispered. "I know we will."
Kissing her lightly, Daniel pulled away. "Together."
"Together," she agreed and they walked out, both composed again.
Amon-Ra had truly had enough; he was on his feet his eyes glowing momentarily. "Silence!" He roared "I have heard enough, be grateful I do not have you blasted into whatever afterlife you believe in." He snarled and headed for the door with his lotar following, N'tar and the Jaffa succeeding behind.
The Elders sat in silence, Juanita glancing at Victor, seeing him nod; at least he had what he needed. She then addressed the Elders. "My Elders, it is obvious we need to take action."
"We can not compete against the Goa'uld," one informed.
"No we can't, but once the humans from Earth have their people, then they will help us," she announced. "We must be ready to help them."
"All right, Juanita," the head Elder agreed. "Prepare in seclusion."
"I shell," she said and bowed her head.
One by one the Elders left, leaving her and Victor alone in the room. She helped him clean up, and then they returned to her home. "When you meet with your people, I wish to come along, to ask them for help in freeing mine."
"I'm sure they'll agree to do all they can Juanita," he assured.
"I hope you are right, Vic'tor," she said solemnly.
On the disguise of going hunting, they set out before twilight, heading for the Stargate. Arriving just as the sun was dropping. The Alkesh de-clocked before them and Colonel Jack O'Neill and Major Samantha Carter-O'Neill came out.
"Sir, Ma'am," the Gunny greeted.
"Gunny, you have something for us?" Jack asked and he gave Juanita a nod.
He handed over the vile of blood. "Dr. O'Neill wasn't allowed the suppressant last night in punishment for refusing to sleep with the snakehead. Whatever that toxin is he gave her, it works fast, she wasn't well when I got that sample."
Jack's blood boiled. "Damn it!"
"Once she has the suppressant in her system again she'll be all right," Sam informed, hiding her anger. "We'll contact you as soon as possible, Gunny."
"I'll be waiting, Major."
Juanita then stepped forward. "The Elders of Charakeea ask for help in eradicating our planet of this false God when you have your people back."
"That we will do with pleasure," Jack promised. "We have to go. Keep low Gunny."
"Yes sir."
Returning to the Alkesh, it clocked and took off.
Victor turned to Juanita. "We should get out of here just in case."
"Agreed," she said and they hurried away from the Stargate.
Stargate Command:
AJ Chegwidden gave control of his body to his symbiote in hopes; Atum may be able to find an antidote. He'd been studying the blood sample taken from Dr. O'Neill. He sat back and sighed. "She was right, any antidote we made would have worked only on Dr. Jackson and not herself."
Janet Frasier sighed. "I was afraid of that."
Before they could continue, klaxons began sounding and the announcement of a traveler inbound was made, both rushed out and headed for the Gate room. There were no teams out; only one was off world and that was Gunnery Sergeant Galendez.
They arrived just behind Jack, Sam, Harm, Mac and Teal'c, the Gate was opened and all were waiting.
"It's SG-3 IDC," Sergeant Harriman announced from the control room.
Waiting, they watched the iris open and after a few minutes, Galendez, Jackson and O'Neill stumbled through with Juanita. "Close the iris!" The Marine ordered.
Quickly the iris spiraled shut; thumps were heard before the Gate closed down.
Janet ran up the ramp to Daniel and Ceri, catching the young woman before she could fall, lowing her to the ramp. She yelled orders to the corpsmen who rushed in, seeing Galendez held Daniel upright. "How long?" She demanded.
"Day two," he answered.
"What the hell happened?" Jack asked as they medical team got both archaeologists onto gurneys and out of the Gate room. Mac and Harm following with Teal'c on the Colonel's nod.
"Another Goa'uld hit Amon-Ra's ship, he took off leaving the Charakee people and his lotar behind, with Juanita's help, I got both doctors into the forest outside the village. I'm not sure who won above the planet, but they started bombarding the surface, it took us this long to get to the Gate and dial home."
"My people ran into the mountains, to use the caves to hid, I pray they are all right." Juanita added. "The Elders insisted I help your people."
"Thank you Juanita," Sam said meaning it.
Galendez nodded to his CO. "Sir."
AJ nodded back. "Good work Gunny."
"Thank you sir."
"Lets get to the infirmary," Jack insisted, bring anguish to know the condition of his daughter and son-in-law.
Both Galendez and Juanita were checked over, once cleared, they were allowed to clean up, both were given fatigues to wear and sent straight to Hammond for debriefing leaving the others to hold their visual.
Sam stood in Jack's arms, feeling the need to be close to her husband. "God, Jack, what if we lose them?" She asked softly.
"We won't, we'll get them through this," he promised.
Amon arrived with Jacob, being filled in; they hurried to see if they could help, along with AJ, letting their symbiotes take control.
Mac led Harm away from the others. "I spoke to dad before this happened," she told him. "I'm going to stay blended with Ciaran."
"You don't mind?"
"No," she bit her lip a little. "There's something else you need to know, I should have told you earlier but with all that's happened…"
Harm could sense she was holding back. "Sarah, what ever it is, we'll deal with it together."
She nodded. "I'm pregnant, Harm. I found out before I blended with Ciaran."
"Pregnant?"
"Ciaran says twins."
"Twins," he said shocked.
"Uh huh."
General Hammond came in; he smiled at the shocked expression on the commander's face. "I take it you've been told, Commander?"
"Yes…yes sir."
"Congratulations, son," he said as he walked passed.
"Thank you sir," Harm managed to say, before addressing Mac. "The General knew?"
She nodded. "Sorry."
"God, Sarah, don't be sorry," he pulled her into his arms. "I'm just stunned."
She smiled a little. "I guess I could of found a better time to tell you."
That was an understatement. "I would have been stunned anyway," he admitted.
Dr. Frasier came out to them, her face shadowed with worry.
"How are your patients, doctor?" General Hammond asked.
"Daniel is stabilizing, the antidote we developed is working for to a certain extent for him," she reported.
"And Ceri?" Jack inquired aguishly.
"We gave her the antidote but it's not working, we hoped by some miracle we were wrong and it would," Janet answered him gravely. "She's in a lot of pain at the moment, all I can do is make her comfortable."
"What about the healing devices?" Sam asked.
"Selmac and Adrick are trying now, Atum is still working on an antidote."
"Can we see her," Mac asked in almost a whisper.
Janet nodded and led them into the observation room; from there they could see Ceri and Daniel on beds in the room below, both Tok'ra were using hand devices to try and heal her. "Her immune system is very weak, I can't let you into the room with her. Daniel shouldn't be in there either, but when we tried to separate them, her vitals went through the roof," the doctor explained. "Adrick said it's because of their bonding, Daniel is linked to Ceri," she hugged herself, shivering at what she was going to say next. "If the worse happens, Amon will have to break their bond or they could both die."
Sam put a comforting arm around her friend. "You're doing the best you can, Janet."
"Sometimes it doesn't feel like it's enough, Sam."
"Why would Amon-Ra make the toxin inadequate?" Teal'c inquired.
"What do you mean, T?" Jack asked frowning.
"It was designed for Daniel Jackson and Ceri O'Neill, it is useless for any other use," the Jaffa stated.
"He's right, his revenge was solely focused on them," he frowned again, and then headed out mumbling: "Or was it?"
"Where are you going?" Sam asked.
"To test a theory," Jack answered and headed for the lab, rolling up his sleeve as he went, acknowledging the Tok'ra in the Admiral's body. "Take a sample of my blood."
Atum arched an eyebrow. "Any particular reason?"
"I have a hunch."
The Tok'ra did, drawing blood from Jack. "Now what?"
"Expose it to the toxin and see what happens," he ordered.
Doing so to only a little of the Colonel's blood, Atum watched the effect the toxin had on the blood. Like Ceri's and Daniel's it was attacked the blood cells, specifically the white blood cells. "Colonel?"
"It's attacking white blood cells, correct?"
"Yes," he looked up. "What are you getting at, Colonel?"
"Daniel, Ceri and myself all have Ancient genes, the toxin is designed to attack anyone with that particular gene. Ceri's ancestors were Ancients." Jack revealed. "You've got to find an antidote that triggers the Ancient gene into attacking the toxin and neutralizing it."
Atum was impressed. "Colonel O'Neill, you're smarter then you look."
"Yeah, well don't spread it around, I have a reputation to protect," Jack remarked.
The Tok'ra chuckled. "No one will hear it from me, Colonel," he informed and went to work.
Janet came into the lab. "Colonel, Atum."
"The Colonel just made a valid point, doctor and when I followed it through, it gave me the answer," Atum revealed, keeping his promise. "We need to make the Ancient genes attack the toxin and neutralize it."
"How?" She asked, ignoring the Colonel as she moved to the Tok'ra's side.
Jack managed a smile and left them too it, returning to the observation room. Seeing both Tok'ra in the room below had stopped working with the healing devices and were leaving the room.
"It isn't working," Sam, informed, coming up beside him, she slipped her arm around his waist.
Jack returned the gesture. "Atum has something, she just has to hang on." He closed his eyes and concentrated. Ceri, honey, hang on. He thought to his surrogate daughter. Please honey. He opened his eyes, she didn't reply but he had a feeling she'd heard him.
Amon found Jack in the observation room an hour later; he was alone with his thoughts. They were taking turns at keeping visual on their team members/family. He handed Jack a cup of coffee. "I thought you might need it."
"Thanks."
Grabbing a stool, Amon sat beside him. "Good work by the way."
"For what?" Jack asked him, playing dumb.
"Well for one thing figuring out about the Ancient gene," he remarked and smiled at the Colonel's frown. "Don't worry Atum didn't tell me, AJ did."
"Figures."
Amon chuckled, but sat with him in silence for a time too. "I want to thank you for being athair to my daughter and seanair to my granddaughter," he said sincerely.
Knowing the meaning behind the words, Jack understood. "I didn't do much." He put his half empty cup on the desk near him.
"You've done more then you think," the Tok'ra stated. "You gave her a family."
"No," Jack corrected. "We became a family."
"Yes you did. Thank you."
"You're welcome."
In the room below, Ceri started to convulse, her movements woke Daniel, who was gripping her hand. Jack flew into the room, ignoring the protests from the nurses, Amon right behind him.
Holding Ceri down, Jack saw the fear in Daniel's eyes, his friend still to weak to help. He turned his attention to his surrogate daughter. "Ceri, honey, settle down," he said calmly, moving to sit on the bed he held her in his arms, being careful of her IV. "Come on baby, fight this, don't let it beat you."
Amon had hurried around to Daniel, the young man refused to let his grip go on his wife's hand, so he helped him to his feet so his son-in-law could stand at her bedside or in his case half held.
Jack sighed as Ceri started to settle, her convulsions ending. "That's it sweetheart, fight it," he whispered and kissed the top of her head. "I'm here darlin."
Janet rushed in. "Colonel, Amon, you should be in here," she told them; she wore a surgical mask and gloves.
"Tough doc," Jack stated, he wasn't moving. "I'm not leaving."
"Neither am I," Amon said firmly, his grip on Daniel just as strong.
"Damn!" Janet swore and moved around to him. "Daniel lay down before you fall down."
"No, need to be with her, Janet," he retorted.
She swore again under her breath and dragged a stool over close to the bed. "Sit!"
"Come on son," Amon said gently.
Daniel did what he was told, never losing hold of his wife's hand.
AJ came in carrying two capped syringes. "Atum says to give this to both of them," he announced passing both to Janet. "The antidote developed hasn't totally cured Dr. Jackson, Atum said this will."
Amon held out his hand. "Look after Ceri, I'll look after Daniel."
She didn't hesitate giving him the syringe she concentration on her patient, injecting the new antidote into Ceri's IV before disposing of the syringe. Daniel never even flinched when he was given the injection; his fortitude was on his wife. Amon didn't disturb him; he just gave the injection and then disposed of the syringe as Dr. Frasier had. He returned to his son-in-laws side, but addressed the Admiral. "How long until we know it's worked?"
"Atum said a few hours."
Janet knew she wasn't going to get rid of O'Neill now. "Are you going to be all right there, Colonel?"
"No problem, doc." Jack insisted, even though he knew he'd be paying for it later.
"Yell out to one of my nurses if you need help," she insisted. "Admiral, we'd better brief General Hammond."
AJ nodded. "After you doctor," he said politely and left with her.
An hour later, Harm arrived at the observation room, having been informed what had happened by Dr. Frasier. He smiled at the sight below. Jack was still in the same position, Ceri in his arms. Daniel had somehow managed to crawl onto the bed with her, his head in her lap. All three were fast asleep and his father was sitting next to the bed. Dad.
He looked up, giving a brief smile; he got up and left the room, going to the observation room. "Hey kiddo."
"Dr. Frasier told me what happened, are they all right?"
Amon nodded. "It looks like they're going to make a full recovery."
"Do you want to grab a cup of coffee, there's something I want to talk to you about?" Harm asked.
"Sure."
They headed for the commissary; getting coffee they sat away from the others. Amon could see his son was stalling. "What is it, Harm?"
"Sarah's pregnant."
His father smiled. "That's great."
"With twins," Harm added and saw the shocked expression go across his father's face. "Believe me, I was just as stunned."
"This obviously happened before the blending?" Amon asked.
"Yes," Harm took a drink of his coffee then asked. "Dad, would it be possible for Sarah and I to go through the bonding ceremony like Ceri and Daniel did?"
"I can't see why not," his dad answered. "The results may not be the same, after all Ceri is a full Tallisian."
"But it can be done?" Harm queried.
He nodded. "I could do the ceremony if that's what you want, but to make it legal here on Earth, you'll have to have a traditional wedding ceremony like they did."
"Well, we kinda went and did that, the Chaplain on base performed the ceremony a few minutes ago," Harm admitted and his father laughed. "Dad!"
"Oh come on Harm, your mother is going to love this, you know she's been planning your wedding from the moment you were born." Amon teased.
"I know, that's why we did it, besides as soon as she finds out she's going to be a grandmother, she'll forget all about the not being invited to the wedding." Harm dismissed.
"What about your friends from JAG?" His father asked.
He sighed. "They'll get use to the fact."
"Harm," Amon sat forward. "I'll do the bonding ceremony for you, but think about having a small ceremony at the house for your mom and friends."
"All right," he nodded. "So when can we do it?"
"It'll have to be before Sarah reaches three months, so the sooner the better."
Harm nodded, thinking it through. "I guess we can do it as soon as Ceri and Daniel are on their feet."
"Good idea."
Gunnery Sergeant Galendez walked in and did a double take, he'd been told about the Commander's father, but seeing them together was something else. "Sirs."
"Gunny, take a seat." Harm insisted.
"Thank you sir," he sat next to him. "General Hammond sent a MALP through to P4X 4599, the village was destroyed but Juanita's people survived. Juanita is returning with SG-12, who are going to help them rebuild."
"And Amon-Ra?" Amon asked.
"He's long gone sir, the Tok'ra reported they had an operative fly into the sector and the remains of one ship was in high obit, but it wasn't Amon-Ra's," the Gunny reported. "Looks like he's still out there sir."
"You don't have to call me, sir, Gunny. I'm not military," the Tok'ra agent told him.
"Force of habit sir," Victor said with a grin.
Harm couldn't help but smile. "You seem to be handling this rather well, Gunny."
"I guess I am sir," he admitted. "And I expect to keep on doing it, I asked the General about being assigned here and it's been approved. I've been assigned to SG-5."
Chuckling Harm held out his hand. "Welcome aboard, Gunny."
"Thank you sir," he said shaking his hand.
Major Pete Rylands, team leader of SG-5, came into the commissary and over to them. "Commander, Gunny, sir."
"Major," Harm greeted.
"Commander, I heard the doc and Dr. J are going to be all right."
"They'll be back on their feet in no time, Major."
"That's good to here, sir."
"Yes it is, Major." Harm agreed.
"Well if you'll excuse us sir, I'd like the Gunny to meet the other members of SG-5." Pete Rylands announced.
"He's all yours, Pete."
The Major smiled. "Take it easy, sir."
"You too Pete."
Victor got up and went with the Marine Major, the two chatting, they nodded to Lt. Ryans as she entered the commissary; she smiled and went over to Harm and his father.
"Sir," she handed Harm the folder she was carrying. "I completed those translations you asked for."
"Jodie, you were told to take it easy," he stated, gesturing for her to sit.
"I did sir, doing the translations was relaxing," she said sincerely.
"You're as bad as my sister and her husband, Jodie."
"Thank you sir," she said with a grin.
He took the folder and tapped her on the head with it. "Go and relax, Lieutenant, that's an order, don't work, relax."
"Yes sir," she said happily, getting up she hurried out.
Harm saw the look his father was giving him. "What?"
"You need to have a ceremony for them, Harm, not just your friends at JAG, but your friends and team members here." Amon stated. "They're family."
Knowing his father was right, Harm agreed. "All right, I'll discuss it with Sarah."
In the infirmary, Ceri moaned and opened her eyes realizing where she was. Jack was still holding her in his arms, even while he slept and Daniel was curled up on the bed with them, also asleep, his head in her lap. Despite feeling like she'd gone ten rounds with Teal'c she managed to stroke her husbands head. They were home and alive. Danny… She gently nudged him telepathically. Danny?
He woke and twisted around a little without falling off the bed. "Ceri." Feeling stronger, he scrambled up closer and kissed her.
That woke Jack up, he grinned. "Hey, I'm here too remember," he teased and hugged them both. "Don't do that do me again, okay."
"I'm sorry, dad," she whispered.
"You have nothing to be sorry about, kiddo," he assured. "You just frightened the life out of me, I thought I was going to lose you both." He eased himself out from under Ceri without jarring her too much, standing he stretched, feeling muscles protest. "I'm getting old."
"You're not old, dad," Ceri insisted as Daniel moved to lay beside her, being careful of the IV still in her arm.
"Hey I am old," Jack protested, adding. "Though I didn't have gray hair until I meet Danny-boy and his antics of the last couple of years, combined with yours has done it."
She knew he was teasing, reaching out her hand to him. "I'm sorry dad," she apologized again.
Jack preached careful on the bed taking her hand. "So am I sweetheart, I wasn't there when you needed me, either of you."
"You can't always been there for us, Jack," Daniel said placidly. "We know that."
With his free hand he rubbed the back of his friends head. "Doesn't stop me from worrying."
The door opened and Janet came in, she went over to them. "How are you both feeling?"
"Like I went ten rounds with Teal'c and lost," Ceri answered her.
"Well, your insides did," the doctor, remarked. "You're both very lucky to be alive." She looked to Jack. "Colonel, can you help Daniel back to his own bed, please?"
"Sure doc," he got up and moved round to the other side of the bed. "Come on Danny, you can snuggle all you like once you're both out of here."
Reluctantly he accepted the help back to his own bed. "Where's Callie?"
"With Alyn," he told the younger man. "She's fine."
"Can we see her, Janet?" Ceri asked aguishly.
"When you're both stronger," she promised.
"Janet, please."
The doctor heard the pleading in her voice. "All right, for a few minutes," she relented.
"I'll go get her," Jack offered and left the room.
Janet smiled and continued to check the young woman over. "He's responsible for you two being alive, even if he doesn't want the credit."
"How?" Daniel asked.
"He fingered out the toxin you were poisoned with was design to be used on anyone with Ancient genes, after that it was just a matter of figuring out how to get your Ancient genes to attack the toxin," she explained. "You're going to feel weak for a few days but it'll pass."
"As long as I get to see, Callie," Ceri said feverishly.
"You will honey," Janet assured, giving her a warm smile. "You're body has been through a lot, take it easy and you'll be fine."
Daniel closed his eyes and thank god he had his wife with him, he didn't know what he would have done if he'd lost her.
You won't lose me, Danny, I promise, she whispered telepathically.
He opened his eyes, and smiled a little.
Jack returned with his granddaughter in his arms, Pharaoh close behind. Janet was going to protest, but decides against it. "Here we go sweetheart, your mommy and daddy have been eager to see you," Jack told his granddaughter and sat on the edge of the bed, laying the little girl in her mother's arms, but staying close encase Ceri needed him.
Ceri felt tears well in her eyes. "Hello sweetheart," she managed to kiss her forehead.
Daniel slipped out of bed again and made it on his own to his wife's, preaching on the bed he reached out and let his daughter grab his finger.
Janet nudged the Colonel and he got up, she put the bed rail up and they left the room for a few minutes, standing just outside. "I think you've just delivered the best medicine Colonel O'Neill." She said quietly.
"Yeah," he smiled hugging himself. "After all they've been through, they need this."
She patted his arm and walked away, passing Sam as she did, who went over to her husband and stood beside him.
He slipped his arm around her. "We got them back, Sam."
"Yeah we did, Jack," she said hugging him back.
Two days later, SG-2 escorted Admiral Chegwidden to the Tok'ra base along with Jacob and Amon, so Atum could address the Tok'ra high council. While they were gone life went on, Galendez went on his first mission with SG-5 and returned unharmed. Mac rang Harm's parents and told them about the babies and their wedding plans. Ceri and Daniel recovered quickly, being aloud out of the infirmary, but they had to remain on base. Jack and Sam went to their house and made sure everything was ready for them when they did get home, including feeding the fish. Ceri and Mac had long talks about the bonding ceremony and babies. Mac also handled calls being directed to Admiral Chegwidden from his cell phone to her office, assuring everyone in Washington the Admiral was fine, just not available.
When they stepped through the Stargate, Mac was more then happy to see her fiancé, his team, and the Tok'ra.
"Colonel, you look fed up," AJ smirked.
"Sir, you need to call Washington," she insisted. "You'd think every catastrophe known to man happens while you're away."
"Well in most cases it does, Colonel, but not so much since you and Rabb left," he remarked.
Harm laughed at that as he and his team headed for the infirmary for after-mission check-ups.
Mac didn't find it amusing, she turned on her heals and walked out.
"That went well," Jacob mused.
"Wait until Washington hears the news," the Admiral retorted.
General Hammond came in. "Gentlemen, I trust the meeting went well."
"As well as can be for the high council." Amon remarked.
They left the gate room, heading for the conference room, talking more there after getting comfortable.
"It seems my presence is required off world," AJ informed. "Well, Atum's, I'm just along for the ride."
"Which means?" Hammond asked.
"It means I'm retiring from the Navy and leaving the country," AJ announced. "It's time for Atum to rejoin the Tok'ra and be with his people."
"And you don't mind?"
"General," he sat forward. "When I joined the Navy, I never thought in my wildest dreams I would be saved from death by an alien symbiote, but I was. I've lived with Atum in my head for a lot of years; he's had to live my life for all of them. I think I can return the favor by living his for a while."
Hammond nodded. "You're always welcome here at Stargate Command, Admiral."
"Thank you General and I think we can dispense with ranks. It's AJ."
"George."
The two shock hands, a friendship forming.
"How are my daughter and son-in-law, George?" Amon inquired.
"They've been released from the infirmary, but are still confined to the base. Dr. Frasier is going to let them go home tomorrow," he reported.
"Well I'm just glad I'm visiting them and not their graves," he remarked. "I've seen enough death to last me two life times."
"I think we all have," Jacob announced.
"Then it's a good thing we have a wedding in the plans then, I think it's what we all need," the General announced.
"I think you're right George."
"With that in mind," Amon stood. "If you'll excuse me, I have to go through the bonding ceremony with both Harm and Sarah before the big event tomorrow."
"Everything is set up here." Hammond informed.
"Now the hard part," he mused and left the room to their chuckling.
The next morning in the Gate room, before their friends and immediate families, Harm and Mac went through the Tallisian bonding ceremony. Performed by Amon Rhabb, the two souls became one.
Ceri and Daniel stood with their family, Pharaoh at their side since Daniel held Callie. Teal'c had barely left their side, making sure they did everything that Janet told them too. Jack and Sam found it amusing, as did General Hammond.
Mac barely heard what Amon said, she felt like everyone else in the room had disappeared and it was only her and Harm, she could feel him, it was like he was apart of her and she of him. It was an amazing feeling, especially since Ciaran was experiencing it along with her, sharing it too; it was as if he and Nitara were also bonding along with them. Instead of four souls there would be two.
Amon removed his hands from their heads and gently pushed the two of them together, so they stood in each other's arms.
Harm had barely felt the action; he smiled warmly, remembering what had to be said. I am yours and you are mine.
Mac smiled too, she felt incredible, his thoughts were so clear to her, as were his feelings. You are mine and I am yours, she replied.
What were two; is now one, Amon declared and said it out loud too for the benefit of those non-telepaths.
Harm lent down and kissed his wife, parting her lips in a passionate kiss that promised so much more when they were finally alone.
Jack lent closer to Sam. "Do you think they might pass out from lack of oxygen?" He inquired in a whisper.
She groaned and elbowed him in the ribs. "Behave," she insisted, grinning.
"Yes dear."
Daniel put his daughter in her mother's arms and slipped his arm around them both, Ceri turned her head and kissed him gently on the lips. I love you, he sent to her.
I love you, Danny, she sent back.
Harm and Mac parted, those in the Gate room, cheered and clapped, moving forward to congratulate the happy couple, his team the first ones. In a few days a private ceremony would be held for Harm's mother, stepfather and his friends from JAG, it was going to bring new friends and old ones together and an Admiral was going to say goodbye.
For now though Jack and the rest of SG-1 stood back and let the newly weds have their moment, neither the noise nor fuss worrying baby Callie, who was now in her grandfather's arms. None of them realizing that what was to come in the following year would either break them or make them stronger. They had not faced the worst - it was yet to come.
To be continued….
