Thank you for reading this far, the pace of the story should pick up soon!
PART 3: THE BRIEFING
They made it to the mountain and the briefing room in another 20 minutes. Although they were later than planned, it was the best they could do considering the needs of four pre-teen children.
As Sam and Jack entered the briefing room, they were met by General Landry, representatives of the Tokra High Council and an Asgard as yet unknown to them.
Once introductions were completed, the story behind the early morning phone call began to fall in place.
"We've recently become aware of the location of a powerful new weapons array under construction on P3X-779. Our intelligence tells us that a highly placed Goa'uld is involved in this project, but we have been unable to locate him in order to, how do you say, 'take him out'."
"Okay, so you have a situation. How does that involve me and my wife? We haven't been involved in any gate travel for some time now."
"Ambassador, it appears that the control panels of the central weapon are of ancient design. I'm sure you understand that this means only someone who possesses the ancient gene would be able to operate them."
"And so …"
The Asgard representative entered the discussion at this point, "The Asgard have an interest in this project as well, Ambassador. In addition to the weapons array, we are aware of high level genetic research carried on in the labs of P3X-779. We believe the Goa'ulds involved have accessed ancient knowledge related to genetic engineering. As you know, millennia ago, the Asgard and the Ancients were allies. As such the Ancients were involved in helping us with what was even then becoming a serious problem with our cloning technology".
"And you are hoping that what you find on P3X-779 is part of the answer you have been looking for all this time", Sam stated as some degree of realization began to dawn on her.
"Exactly, Colonel."
Hank Landry, normally a patient man, had had just about enough of the typical alien explanation which was, as always, long on style and short on specifics.
"So … what exactly do you need from us? And why do you require the services of both Colonel Carter and Ambassador O'Neill?"
The Asgard representative spoke up with some determination at this point. "General, the presence of both Colonel Carter and Ambassador O'Neill is vital to this mission. There are energy barriers and … other issues to be addressed".
"Other issues?"
"Yes, we believe one of the labs on the planet has an Asgard specimen from the time of our association with the Ancients. We require Colonel Carter's expertise in order to safely transport this specimen. And as we said before, Ambassador O'Neill will be required in order to manipulate the weapon. Thor has insisted he be present."
"You realize that Ambassador O'Neill and I are very reluctant to participate in an off-world mission together because of the possibility we may both be lost and our children left without a parent."
"You needn't worry, Colonel", the Tokra operative volunteered. "Our scouts indicate minimal occupying forces. Much of the base seems to be automated at this time. To the best of our knowledge the remaining residents are scientists. It is doubtful they would present a significant threat to a military team such as yours." Directing his comments to General Landry, he added, "We suggest that in addition to Colonel Carter and Ambassador O'Neill, the remaining members of SG1 and another SG team be assigned to this mission".
"Well, Hank, Teal'c is available. But Daniel's on babysitting duty…"
"Not anymore, Jack." Jack turned around in surprise just as Daniel entered the room, apparently ready to go. "Janet said she could handle it. She's home full time now what with the baby. And Grace and Jake are actually a big help with the younger kids. So you see, I'm not really needed there."
"Well, it sounds like this is settled. The President has asked me to expedite this one, Jack, in the interest of relations with our off world allies. SG1 you have a go. I'll be briefing SG3 within the hour. Planned departure will be at 1100 hours."
That said, General Landry and Daniel, along with the Asgard and Tokra representatives, left the briefing room, leaving Jack and Sam side by side at the table, making no move to get up.
Instead, Jack found his fingers intertwined with his wife's and was surprised to find himself holding on for dear life. Their eyes met briefly before Jack began, "I'm not sure this is a good idea, Sam. 'It seems'? 'Doubtful'?" Jack shook his head with a scowl, "we both know that's Tokra double talk for 'we've got no f… idea what's really there'. You know I'm beginning to think we should both just turn around and go home, Sam".
"I think you know we can't do that Jack. Come on, let's get geared up, they'll be ready to go any minute now and we don't want them waiting for the senior members of the team."
With a grimace, Jack replied, "Yasureyabetcha, let's go and get this over with".
Sam and Jack stood and proceeded to their quarters to suit up for the mission.
I'm planning a total of around 15 chapters to complete the story. Will post at least twice a week. Constructive criticism is very much appreciated as this is my first attempt!