Chapter Five: Hero Worship
O'Neill studied the skyline of the alien city. Tall towers pointed like needles in the sky. Most of them had hanging greenery protruding from every level. These people liked their gardens, Jack thought. The vehicles landed at a huge complex. The team disembarked and followed uniformed attendants into the lobby area. O'Neill and SG-1 craned their heads to look at the ornately decorated halls and rooms. Giant doors swung open. O'Neill and his team entered an enormous theatre. As they were lead down the aisle, thunderous cheers erupted. For once, Jack was completely taken aback. He stopped in mid-stride to look around, wondering if this was really for them. The rest of the team was equally shocked. Oh yeah, this was going to be really interesting. He could hear them chanting his name. Sweet.
The rest of the ceremony was a blur. The King accepted bows from SG-1. Judging by the ridiculously ornate costume, someone important made a long speech, and then awarded him a medal. Lady Anna was there watching over the proceedings. He acted perfunctorily, thanking, waving, and looking at the Protocol Officer to tell him what to do. Finally, he just enjoyed it. After all, they did save the entire galaxy. These fine folks were just showing their appreciation.
A couple hours later, sitting in another vehicle, Jack was still overwhelmed. He was naturally suspicious of strangers, let alone aliens. However, these folks were starting to grow on him. They were trying hard to make him like them. It is natural to like those who like you. But the years of training that kept him alive made him cautious. Obviously, they wanted something big. But, he was cautiously optimistic for the first time since everyone met.
Sitting together in the aircar, Lady Anna beamed a smile at Jack. They were traveling to her ancestral home for the Sabbath. In a few short hours the suns would set. By then, everyone would be at home celebrating. This weekend should be very interesting. It was a make or break situation. Lives were at stake and time was short. Powerful enemies threatened her people. Hopefully, everyone here would cooperate. Her plan was coming together.
Today, made the last seven years worth the struggle and sacrifice. The welcoming ceremony at the Great Council was a huge success. The occasion was broadcast to the entire Commonwealth. Lady Anna's prestige and power grew exponentially today as a result. She had found the Holy Mother Planet. And most of all, she had brought O'Neill before the King and all the People.
Anna observed Jack and tried to assess his mood. Jack regarded his companion with an impassive face. She was beautiful. No, make that gorgeous. She was probably a hundred years old, too. And she was up to something. But he was tired after a long day of meet and greet. These folks could really put on a show. He hoped that no matter what her plans, this weekend would be worth it.
While Jack was on his way to his weekend destination, his team split in pairs to go to theirs. Daniel and Teal'c were headed out of the city to Dr. Gilead's farm. Daniel and Dr. Gilead had found common grounds as archeologists. So, it was natural that they would be sent to him. The vehicle landed some distance out from the city and discharged its passengers. Daniel and Teal'c walked up to the door of Dr. Gilead's farmhouse. Looking around, they saw strange hovering equipment out in the fields. But, the architecture of the main house was recognizable. The house was old, but in great condition. Flowers and small shrubs scented the cool twilight air. The sounds and smells of family life were floating out to the porch. Daniel and Teal'c looked at each other as if to say, well it can't be so bad. Daniel spoke softly, "Aunty Em, Aunty Em, I'm home."
"I do not believe your aunt lives here, Daniel Jackson." Teal'c replied.
"No, no, I guess not." Daniel shot him a look and realized Teal'c had made a joke.
Dr. Gilead came to the door and welcomed them inside. Dinner was being placed on a long table. This house was filled with children. Well maybe, they were children. And then Daniel saw the first old person so far. This could be good, thought Daniel.
Sam Carter sat with Cam Mitchell in a real aircar traveling through a futuristic city. The two officers were on their way to Commander Eli's family. Sam craned her neck to see everything out the windows. Cam did not know which was better, being on an adventure or being with the one and only Sam Carter of SG-1. Working with SG-1 was everything he thought it would be. Cam snorted a laugh. Carter looked over at him, giving a gesture that said, "What?"
"It's just that I always imagined it would be like this and here I am, somewhere over the rainbow. Just the possibility of all this, is what kept me going all through physical therapy. I mean look at this place. I'll never look at a sci fi movie again the same way." Mitchell just grinned.
"Yeah, I go to see how much they actually get right. Cassie says I spoil the fun of it all." Carter smirked back. The vehicle stopped in front of a stone residence and announced them. The door of Commander Eli's residence flung open. Their host came to the door. Carter and Mitchell entered to see a spacious home filled with the sounds of family chaos. Commander Eli welcomed them and the Sabbath began.
The official news media of the Commonwealth ran nothing but the exciting news of Lord O'Neill's arrival in the Capital. Recordings of the Greeting Ceremony at the Great Council were played and replayed. Commentators analyzed every movement each of the Team made. This media's version of Talking Heads commented on every nuance of the occasion. O'Neill's first meeting aboard the ship was replayed as well. Then summarily dissected for its importance. Lady Anna was heralded as the most effective Judge of the People since Samuel, over 3000 years ago. Her biography was shown on multiple channels. Her speeches were re-broadcast. And images of her and O'Neill coming through the Stargate were played on every street corner news screen. The High Priest at the Great Temple offered prayers with the masses gathered outside. People poured into the streets to celebrate. And SG-1 had no idea any of this was happening tonight.
"Hello, Ladies." Jack said in his most charming voice. He walked into the comfortably furnished room that had seen a lot of use. Jack was tired and sat down on a very comfortable sofa. The ladies of the family hesitated and then could not resist their curiosity. Half a dozen classically beautiful young women approached, giggled, and introduced themselves. He could see the evening would be very pleasant.
The Royal Family was naturally a noisy, happy, and affectionate bunch. Even the King allowed the real children to crawl in his lap and search his pockets for treats. The ladies showered O'Neill with attention and food, while giggling and flirting with him. Jack was not complaining. These women were real lookers. And they certainly liked him. After the dinner, Jack was asked to recount his version of the Battle of Vorash. He had a rapt audience, with excited youngsters who just egged him on. As the evening wore on, most of the women and children went off to bed. The men began to drink and relax. Finally, Jack took himself off to bed. O'Neill was beginning to like these people.
Early the next morning, Jack dressed himself and went down for breakfast. One of the ladies fussed over him. He finished eating and noticed that the doors to the garden were open. Jack stepped outside for some fresh air. The garden was in full bloom. It was spring on this planet. At a stone bench, he decided to sit and wait there.
Lady Anna's petticoats swished as she approached the man seated in her garden. "So, we are not monsters, My Lord General?" asked Lady Anna settling in beside him.
"What?" Jack had heard the rustle of skirts approaching. Then he realized what the question meant. "Oh, no." He paused, looking down, and added, "I told you to call me Jack."
"Very well, I am Anna. But only in private." She paused and looked at him. She thought him handsome for an older gentleman. He had finely chiseled features. His body was obviously fit. Gen Restoration and other medical treatments would reverse some of the aging damage. But the burdens he carried would always tell in his eyes.
"You look mighty pretty this morning, Anna." She was dressed up in more rustic attire. "When do we leave for church?" Jack's head hurt. "By the way, do you have something for a headache?"
"Ah, yes, you men were really having a good time last night. We heard you even at the end of the west wing." Anna spoke softly to thin air, requesting pain killer and liquid. He was baffled how the computer knew she was talking to it and not him. "You should drink something cool. It will help." Anna paused and added, "I haven't touched that stuff in decades." She turned to look around the yard. "The garden looks good." Anna pointed to the vegetation all around. "I planted most of the things you see here, in the before time."
"The before time?" Jack noticed her sadness.
"Yes, before the Great Death." Jack looked confused. "I meant the destruction of our planet Asher." Jack gave a nod. "I was a dedicated gardener. But, there's no time anymore." She said regretfully. Jack studied her to see if the emotion was genuine and was satisfied. Changing to a less painful subject, Anna continued, "You know, we really are grateful for what you did at Vorash. If Apophis had come then, well, we would not be here." She saw him receive the praise with humility. He just nodded and gave a small smile. "Everyone was impressed with the story you told last night. It was very exciting." Anna returned the smile at him. "I would never have thought to blow up the sun."
"Aw shucks, it was nothing ma'am." He eyed her for a reaction. Seeing disbelief on her face, he added, "well, it's what we do. We get into trouble. We blow things up. We get out of trouble and go home." He looked down at his hands. "It's a living." One of the ladies arrived with the medicine. Jack gulped his drink. He was thirsty after all.
"We go to the village for services, Jack. Feel up to a walk? It's not far and the morning is cool." Lady Anna rose. "This way, it's shorter through the garden."
"Sure, just follow the Yellow Brick Road." Jack said as he followed her down the path. Lady Anna shot him a quizzical look. "It's from an old Earth Movie, you see..." and he launched into the plot.
After services, Carter and Mitchell joined Eli's family in the main salon. Conversation continued to center on O'Neill. Everyone seemed to know the whole story about the Battle of Vorash. They were rehashing it again. "Of course, as you say, Colonel Carter. I was not there. So you must be correct. But isn't it true that Lord O'Neill lead the attack?" Carter nodded. "And he gave his approval for the plan?" She started to say yes, but was cut off. "He was the one who gave the order?" Carter started to speak, but one of the guests interrupted. "And he was the one who captured the Hatak ship in the first place." Heads were bobbing. Someone else butted in. "And Lord O'Neill forced the ship to crash into the planet." Another guest jumped into the argument. "And didn't he subdue and rescue Master Teal'c?"
"Yes, but I'm the one who figured out how to blow up the sun." Carter was miffed. As far as these people were concerned, General O'Neill deserved all the credit for everything. To them, the team was just supporting staff along for the ride. "My father and I devised the scheme. And I'm the one who rigged the device and launched it."
Listening to all this, Commander Eli was baffled by Carter's pique. It was disgusting. This junior subordinate dared to liken her efforts to the awe-inspiring deeds of her lord and commander, O'Neill. Eli understood why Lady Anna wanted him to keep these two out of the way.
By late afternoon, Daniel and Teal'c returned from a walk, back to Dr. Gilead's home. They had to take a break from the unending questions about Jack. The hero worship was getting on their nerves. However, the day had been extremely interesting for the anthropologist in Daniel. Worship services revealed that while much was different, the Teachings seemed to be consistent with the Old Testament of the Earth Bible. As the suns were setting, Daniel entered the room where some members of the household were watching a broadcast. Apparently the news was on. The reporter was gushing about Jack. Jack's image walked into the church as throngs stood by and watched.
"... Lord Major General Jack O'Neill piously walked from His Majesty's country house to services this morning. He accompanied Lady Anna on foot out of respect for our most traditional Sabbath custom. According to reports from inside the sanctuary, he humbly sat to the rear. No one alerted the congregation that he would be here, but word spread quickly last night through the Village of..."
Someone changed the channel. Images of throngs of people in a great plaza filled the screen. The announcer described the event celebrating General O'Neill's arrival. It looked like one helluva party. People were ecstatic.
Teal'c saw Daniel's perplexed expression. "This is disturbing, Daniel Jackson. I do not understand why these people are so overcome by O'Neill's presence."
"Yeah, they seem to be real fans. They are way more than fans, maybe groupies. It's almost a religious fervor." He looked at the faces in the room. The commentator continued his excessive praise of O'Neill. The family members were all smiling and nodding their heads in agreement. Daniel turned to Teal'c. "I wonder if Jack even knows.
As the Sabbath drew to a close, Lady Anna rested in her rooms at the family's country estate. The week had been full indeed. All her energy was spent. Her efforts to save her people would be decided this afternoon out in the garden. Only the King could finish her plan. She reflected upon the road that brought her to this time. Her journey began with Apophis leveling the planet Asher. That destruction was called the Great Death. The impact on the Commonwealth was drastic. Removal of an entire world threw chaos into every aspect of life. Nearly 1 in 12 people had died. Almost everyone lost someone. Many members of the Royal Family had been there on vacation on the beautiful beaches of that world. Their loss shook the government. Without Asher, the economy's fabric was torn. An economic depression began. The wheels of commerce came to a grinding halt. Every level of society was terrified, generating unrest that tore communities apart. The entire system was about to collapse from the turmoil. Somehow, the people had to be turned around to look outward, not inward. They had to become warriors or be destroyed. But, the Commonwealth was tearing itself apart, while the enemy was at the door.
The military was little more than ritual and a toy for the ancient clans. To Lady Anna's frustration, inertia and complacency stymied reform attempts. The military still carried the ritual swords and shields. The Commandment, you shall not kill, was written on every doorway. In the Teachings, self-defense was not only permitted, it was expected. But those examples were from long ago and far away. Basically, the stories of war were just fables. The commandment was strong; the exceptions were not as obvious. No one would take up real arms. The spiritual nature of society made raising a conscripted army problematic to say the least. In truth, no one knew how to fight an interstellar war.
The population expected morals, superior technology, a fine Intelligence Service, and treaties to keep the peace. While shipping had always needed protection, pirates had learned the Commonwealth's shipping routes were unprofitable. Commonwealth ships either had superior shields or speed. Large convoys usually discouraged the lone raider. No profits meant few pirates plagued that region of space. The intelligence network helped solve conflicts with neighboring star systems before they started. A word to diplomatic teams from the Intelligence Service meant early solutions. Treaties with neighboring worlds secured the joys of peace in that sector of space. With the treaties came wholesale marriages. All parties found it difficult to make war on their relatives. And more importantly, the marriages served to refresh the gene pool. So everyone was satisfied. But, the status quo was dead.
Lady Anna went to the King. She had a plan. Building a military from hollow ritual was a huge undertaking. The old system had to be scrapped. Society's values had to change and be reinvented. She needed the King's unqualified backing. She needed his moral authority. She required tremendous financing only the Crown could gather. And she needed the Religious Council to cooperate. Under the circumstances, none of these criteria would happen easily. The whole society had to be turned upside down to produce a war machine where none existed. For it was certain, the enemy would be back. Lady Anna was determined to be ready.
For the past seven years, Lady Anna made the Commonwealth prepare. First, the King gave her the title, Judge Of All The People. The title's religious and moral authority was tremendous. The High Priest performed the anointing ceremony. With that authority and the king's support, she wrested control of the military away from the more conservative elements of the Commonwealth. Using that control, she focused her efforts to strengthen the Intelligence Service. From that position, the Lady was able to build a military, to control the manufacturing sector, and to create supportive propaganda.
Lady Anna's first task was to increase the size and scope of the Intelligence Service. The Service began to search for the source of the Great Death. These efforts uncovered who did it and why. The Goa'uld were back and were ascending in power. Worse, these parasites had helpers. Both enemies had a policy to destroy advanced human civilizations. Now that the enemy had information about the Commonwealth, the threat was imminent.
In the meantime, Lady Anna forced efforts to develop and build new weapons and more powerful ships. Resources were commandeered from all areas of the economy. New tax burdens were implemented, which created more unrest. The finest minds of the age were drafted. The Universities detailed their faculties to the cause. Whole industries were taken over by the government. The great ships took shape. The Intelligence Service brought back weapons that could be modified and built. But the strain on society was almost too much. The King used all his power to keep the government working and the Commonwealth together. This society was in critical condition.
The biggest impediment in the whole scheme was motivating the populace to fight. It was one thing to build things and gather information. It was another matter to kill. The stigma of taking life was so powerful that building the military was almost impossible. Her attempts to use the media to change perceptions and attitudes had little effect. As the Judge of the People, Anna went out on numerous missions with a few trusted cohorts. The Lady was wounded several times. But, her efforts did not rouse the populace. On the great ships, she could get people to do civilian jobs consistent with shipping. They would do research. They would build weapons. But gathering an army was not working. Those who did report for duty refused to fight. On a few test missions, most of the troops let the Jaffa kill them rather than commit such a terrible sin. Anyone who did pull the trigger committed suicide eventually. The rare exceptions included Derek. Lady Anna gathered him and other exceptions to form a ruthless team.
The Intelligence Service brought to Lady Anna's attention a small band of primitive warriors. The name O'Neill featured prominently in the reports of System Lord defeats and even their deaths. O'Neill was like David fighting Goliath. It was the perfect propaganda ploy to rouse the masses and give them hope. The news that O'Neill killed Apophis was even better. David slew Goliath. Lady Anna's media worked overtime to create a legendary hero. O'Neill became the Hero of the Battle of Vorash. Stories of his victories made all the headlines. Reports on any of his likely activities made the news. All this media attention began to inspire the younger generation. So, she whipped up the religious establishment to press this new angle. The last piece of the puzzle remained. She had to find O'Neill.
The trip to Earth was a big disappointment. The people were shockingly primitive. Whatever they had accomplished against the Goa'uld, had to have been exaggerated or just dumb luck. Lady Anna's outrageous demands to Earth governments were designed only to pressure O'Neill into coming, and to gain access to his military's leadership for consultations. The finesse of her plan showed in the result. O'Neill was here. But, his cooperation was not certain.
The waning rays of late afternoon sunshine warmed the man sitting beside the pond. King David enjoyed a few minutes of solitude. Normally, there was always someone wanting something from him. He hoped for a few more precious moments of peace. But, the footsteps approaching quashed that hope. The King sighed. When this was all over, he was going to retire for a decade or so, and let someone else deal with the stress. He had carried around this fantasy around for the last fifty years. And now since the Queen's death on Asher, he thought about it constantly.
O'Neill stopped at the end of the brick walkway. He knew to wait until beckoned. This meeting had to be the other shoe. The day off was nearly over. Here it comes, Jack thought. The man raised his hand and indicated Jack should approach. He looked so tired. The King was one of the few people who looked close to O'Neill's age. O'Neill wondered how old this man really was.
King David made a gesture to Jack indicating he should take a seat in the next chair. For long minutes, neither man spoke. Jack became restless. The King glanced at him with an appraising look. Jack decided it was time to put some cards on the table. Jack paused not sure what to say. He did not want to anger the most powerful human in the galaxy.
"Sir, no disrespect intended, but we don't know you. You all seem like fine people, don't get me wrong. But, what you want will cause chaos on our planet. Sir, many people will die." The King seemed to think for a moment, and nodded. "Sir, please understand your demands are scaring the hell out of us." King David looked over to Jack and waited. "I mean, it's a lot to throw at us all at once." The King sat staring out at the pond. The silence was heavy between them. "So, what is it you want from me, sir?"
"Hmm. Good question." The King took his time before continuing. "I want you to see to it that your people don't die. No one wants that." The King looked at O'Neill and paused. The King sat quietly, letting Jack process that response. "We have great faith in your character." Jack gave him a hard look. "We have no faith in your leaders." The King was in no hurry. He looked back out at the pond. "We are better informed now about the situation on Earth. You have learned something about us." Jack nodded and waited. The King continued, "Your leaders want good relations with us. But, someone has to take the first step. Are you willing to take a small step, General?"
"That depends on how small." Jack felt it coming. He felt like he was on a runaway train.
"Suppose you watch out for your people. Make sure no one dies from unfortunate mistakes." The pause was pregnant with meaning. "Be your world's first representative to us. I have every confidence that you will act with honor. See to it, your leaders do too." The king looked Jack in the eye.
"Sir, that's very flattering. But that decision is not up to me. It's up to my leader, the President of the United States." Jack hoped an out was possible.
"My ambassador has already cleared this appointment with your President. Messengers from Earth are arriving even now to confirm your orders." The King rose and Jack stood up too. "As of tomorrow, you are assigned to Lady Anna's general staff. General O'Neill you are the first Earth Force Advisor to our military. Do not disappoint us." The King walked away without looking back. Jack was left staring at the retreating figure. He had the feeling he had been sold out for thirty pieces of silver.
Summer nights in Washington, DC are alive. The woods and gardens are filled with the sights and sounds of living things. Fireflies hang like fairies up to the tops of the tallest trees. Their lights drift across the outlines of the fragrant bushes. Hoot owls cry their plaintive call looking for the activity of mice hiding in the rotting leaves. Crickets chirp in the hot damp air. Mosquitoes whine around any light. And cicadas grind a constant drone at decibels that can keep a person awake all night. George Hammond was getting no sleep and it wasn't because of the bugs. He had a message to deliver tomorrow. And he wasn't looking forward to the trip. He had to persuade Major General Jack O'Neill that the president did not sell him down the river. It took Hammond half the night to convince himself.
Earth turned upside down less than a week ago when aliens came calling for Jack. They asked for O'Neill by name. Their message repeated on every channel, every frequency, in every language all over the globe until they found their man. In broad daylight, the aliens sent an aircraft carrier sized ship to the Pentagon, headquarters of the United States military. It ferried Jack up to a mother ship as large as Manhattan Island. By then, the secret of the Stargate was out. The world didn't like it one bit.
President Henry Hayes had the unenviable task of playing poker for the highest stakes in Earth history. His opponents were not just the aliens, but also The Powers That Be on Earth. Worse, Earth's off-world allies were A.W.O.L. Once again, the Asgaard were not answering their phone. The Tok'ra were "otherwise engaged". And the Jaffa tried not to show that they were afraid to come. Earth was on its own this time. The good news seemed to be the fact that the aliens were in love with Major General Jack O'Neill, United States Air Force. The big alien mother ship was named, 'O'Neill, the Great.' But, the aliens' demands were the bad news. It seemed as though they wanted the earth, the sky, and everything in between with the rest of the solar system on the side. Yes, the stakes were high.
The first round went to the aliens hands down. Right away, they made a preemptive strike against Goa'uld hiding on Earth. Then, they said they wanted O'Neill, and did everything short of kidnapping him to get him to come to them. At present, O'Neill and his team were on the alien planet ostensibly checking out the aliens. And no one on Earth knew where that was. There was also a major fleet of alien ships in orbit with unknown intentions. So, when the alien ambassador politely requested a conference with President Hayes, an audience was speedily granted. As long as they were talking and not shooting, Hayes figured he was still in the game.
Poker is a game of skill as well as chance. Sometimes you have to bluff. Sometimes raising the stakes big with a poor hand is often more profitable than folding. President Hayes had a vague idea what the aliens wanted. So, he decided to raise by asking the ambassador to move the ships out of orbit. And then he re-raised by demanding that the aliens take no more unilateral actions. All over the world, the nightly news showed satellite pictures of the ships up there. People were hysterical over the number of the ships. The United Nations was breathing down the President's neck to get the situation under control. The world blamed the United States. If the aliens could just move off into the distant parts of the solar system it would relieve some pressure. So, the President went to the table pretty sure of his position. He was nearly out of chips.
As expected, the alien ambassador asked for O'Neill to be posted as an Earth representative to their military. The request was just a formality. They already had him. Hayes knew Jack was not coming back too soon. However, Hayes was willing to let them have Jack in the interim. On the other hand, he knew that the General would never cooperate without express orders. The game was rife for bluffing. Of course the ambassador asked for lots of other things as well. The president dismissed those demands: it was a good bet something was not right here.
The meeting produced satisfactory results. The Commonwealth made concessions to obtain O'Neill. The aliens agreed to move the ships out of sight. Everybody knew that the ships could come back in a few moments, so the inconvenience for the aliens was small. The aliens promised not to initiate any more unilateral strikes on Earth without first informing the President, providing he allowed them to clean out the surveillance devices other aliens had installed in the SGC and elsewhere on Earth. In addition, the aliens agreed to allow SG-1 to travel back and forth to Earth at will. And they were willing to give up the address of their Homeworld.
In exchange, Hayes cut orders for Jack to remain with the aliens for 3 months, with the possibility of an extension. He also arranged to give Jack support staff, including an order for SG-1 to be at his disposal. The aliens swallowed hard but agreed. Both sides agreed to continue their discussions concerning the Ark. The aliens asserted their unequivocal position that it belonged to them. Hayes called their bluff. Hayes let them know it could get messy. All agreed to more meetings on the other demands.
Round two went to the President, or so he thought. The aliens were as good as their word. The ships moved off past Jupiter with one stationed behind the moon. NASA had a couple of telescopes there orbiting at the Earth-Moon L2 point and quickly discovered the hiding spacecraft. However, that information was never revealed to the general public.
Once again, retired Lt. General George Hammond stood before the Stargate and just shook his head. The things he did for these people. Oh well, he thought, and stepped through to the other side. Major Davis followed. Both were astonished to find a busy terminal with the usual travelers and goods moving around. Someone came to whisk them to their destination. Someone else came to tell them that their small arms had been disabled the moment they stepped through the Gate. The polite young man asked if they would like to dispose of their useless items. Hammond shrugged and pulled out his side arm to hand it over. Davis did the same. It was like going to the Tollan all over again. Maybe the Tollan got the disabling device from these folks.
An hour later, Hammond and Davis entered the royal country estate. The doors swung open and uniformed staff ushered them to a small office near the front door. Jack was already there.
"Hello, General, good to see you. Davis." Jack nodded and tried to smile. At least here were familiar faces.
"I've told you to call me George. I'm retired Jack." Hammond sat down behind the desk.
"Right, but General just keeps slipping out. Ok, then George, how bad?" Jack looked at his fingers. Hammond gave Jack the papers. He read them and snarled a yes, sir. Jack let his demeanor speak for him.
"Jack, you have to understand. We don't have a lot of bargaining chips. They are willing to keep talking, provided we formalized your arrangements here." Hammond knew Jack was upset. "There are internal considerations."
"Oh please." Jack huffed.
"The point is that they have to negotiate again in three months. Also, we got you back your team. SG-1 reports to you directly now. The aliens have agreed to designate them as your staff. So you are not alone. The aliens have also agreed to let myself or someone else at my level come to see you as often as necessary." Hammond paused. "And you can have anything you want brought from Earth."
"But, I'm not allowed to go back, am I right?" Jack got impatient. "I shoulda let the dog out" Jack looked up to see Hammond's concern. "I'm joking, sir. I don't have a dog. Although, there are the pros and cons to consider." He looked away to hide his emotions.
"You are coming back. Don't ever doubt that. Don't worry; we'll take care of your things while you are away. An Acting-Homeworld Security director was put in place. I'm sorry, but this could drag out." Hammond sympathized. "Do you have any idea what they really want from you?"
"Only what they claimed themselves. They need help with their military. They want to kick some alien butt out here and think they need me to do it." Jack reached in his pocket and off-handedly tossed out a gold object. "They even pinned a medal on me in front of the King."
Hammond smiled and said softly, "Jack, I promise to get a order from the Joint Chiefs that lets you wear it. And you and I both know how much you miss being in the field. Well here you are. You are on the front lines. So stop bullshitting." Hammond regarded Jack thoughtfully. "Jack, you have the ability to ensure that these people don't do anything nasty. You could even make us some powerful allies. Now, you have your orders, airman."
"Yes, sir." Jack knew Hammond was right. He did miss the action while being behind a desk at the Pentagon. And he missed going off-world. If he had his team with him, it had possibilities. "Tell the President he has nothing to worry about, sir."
"That's what I came to hear, Jack. Now, is there a place to wash up?" Hammond stood. Jack directed him to an elaborate powder room.
Major Davis looked at Jack, "Sir, if you need anyone else, I would consider it an honor."
Jack just placed his hand on the man's shoulder and said, "I appreciate that, Davis. I'll keep it in mind."
"So where are we exactly, sir?" Davis looked around at the large home.
"The King's country estate," replied Jack. "He left a while ago."
"You met him? What's he like?" asked Davis. Hammond walked up.
"He's powerful, very powerful." Jack looked to Hammond. "So, now what? You get the fifty-cent tour of the city?"
"No, we are instructed to return immediately with your answer. The alien ambassador is in the White House as security for our safe return. I don't think it's much security. All they have to do is fly over the place and beam him up. But everybody keeps up the pretence anyway." Hammond offered Jack his hand and left. Jack stuck his hands in his pockets and softly blew out a sigh.
That night, news screens all over the Commonwealth blared the news. O'Neill the Great was theirs. He was bringing the famous SG-1 as his staff. General Hammond and Major Davis made a momentary appearance on the news, arriving, going to the Estate, and leaving through the Gate. The Palace announced that O'Neill's official title now was Earth Force Advisor. The party began in earnest. It wouldn't wind down for another three days.
Elsewhere in the Country House, Lady Anna ended the conference call with the Foreign Ministry. The Foreign Minister informed her that the Earth government accepted their ruse. For the next several weeks, the fleet could be redeployed elsewhere. The remaining ships were beginning to reinforce Earth's star system. Equipment was being positioned among the outer planets. In addition, Commonwealth threats of ground action had the primitives in a panic sufficient for them to concede O'Neill. Of course, they tried to save face by limiting the engagement to three months. And the Ambassador managed to get the concession of SG-1's presence without the President knowing that was among their objectives. The Minister informed her that work was progressing on cleaning out Stargate Command and other Earth sites of the alien surveillance devices. Commander Derek had performed his operation to send signals back through the arrays. Teams were already tracking down the signals' destinations. In addition, Commonwealth operatives were inserted at various strategic points on the planet to install their own devices. All was proceeding as she had commanded.
At Commander Eli's home, Carter and Mitchell were sitting with their hosts in the dining room, when a ruckus started in the kitchen. Servants came bursting in to tell them the good news. Lord O'Neill was now Lady Anna's Earth Force Advisor. SG-1 had the high honor and privilege of being his direct staff. Everyone was bowing and smiling at the two of them. And the two Lt. Colonels just gaped in shock.
"Looks like somebody made an end run around the good General," Mitchell observed.
"We have to get out of here." Carter whispered to Mitchell. "I know the General, he would never agree to this." Carter addressed Commander Eli, "I must go to, um, Lord O'Neill. We must go immediately."
Commander Eli shook his head. "Col. Carter, until you are officially summoned, no one is going anywhere." He left the room shaking his head.
Meanwhile, Lady Anna contacted her team at Military Headquarters. She wanted updates on current activities before presenting O'Neill to the Admiralty the next day. Her assistants read her the most important action items. She cleared these issues so she would be free to deal with political situations all morning. The Great Council's budget committee was meeting in an unscheduled session. If they thought they could get away with more cuts to her programs, it was not going to happen. Not this time, she thought. With her power in the ascendant, she had no doubt matters would change according to her directions.
Farther out of town, Daniel and Teal'c stood in the farmhouse watching the pandemonium on the news screen. Gasps and shrieks of delight punctured the gathering at the farmhouse. Dr. Gilead came up to Daniel with tears in his eyes. He bowed and smiled at both of them. "This is a blessing, a true blessing." His wife came up to him and just hugged her husband.
"Um, we have to speak to General O'Neill, immediately, if you please. I know he would want to talk to us right now. We have to go to him. How do we call him?" Daniel was getting frantic.
Dr. Gilead looked up at them. "There is no need, Dr. Jackson. He is with the Royal Family. Someone will contact me when it is time. Until then, you are here as my guests." Their host turned away to join the rest of the family. Daniel did not need another reminder that this had been a set up to isolate them from Jack.
Back at the King's Country House,a servant knocked softly on the door. O'Neill was absorbed in a game of toss the medal. The servant knocked again a little louder. "What!" Jack called out. The door opened and the young man bowed and announced the dinner invitation from Lady Anna. "Tell her I am not hungry. Thanks but no thanks." Jack was being surly again. The servant left. Jack went back to flipping the object.
A few minutes later, the door opened again. "I told you to tell her I'm not coming." Jack growled.
"Oh, she got the message, My Lord." Lady Anna replied softly. The medal landed in Jack's palm but he did not turn around. All right, he was going to sulk. She had handled this reaction before with men. Hmmm, what was the right way to play it, tender or tough, she wondered. She chose soft. This man could not be bullied. So she just went up to him and touched his shoulder gently. Reflexively he looked around.
No doubt about it, she was one gorgeous, sexy woman. And, he wasn't interested. Or maybe he was. He wasn't sure. She kept him off balance. "So, now what?" Jack went back to flipping the medal. Her hand reached out and caught it in midair. Taking a seat beside him, Lady Anna regarded him patiently. She waited for his reaction. Sometimes, just being quiet ended an argument. Gently, she offered back the object. He just regarded her without moving. So she laid it on the desk and looked back at him again. Finally, Jack sighed. This was going nowhere. "Ok, lady, let's have it. What do you really want? And cut the crap."
"Take my hand, Jack." She held out her right hand. He hesitated, wondering briefly if she would suddenly stick it in his head. Finally, he took her hand. Nothing happened. It was a warm gentle hand. "Feel that, Jack? That is the hand of a woman. A human being." She put her other hand on his, lightly. "We are humans, Jack. And nothing and no one can say that fact is more important to each of us, than anything else in this universe. We need each other. Some of us just don't realize it yet." She paused and kept hold of his hand. "I need you, Jack." She looked into his eyes and paused. "You of all people know what's out there. Predators out there think we are the prey." She waited for him to nod. "Work with me to make all our people safe." He gave her an appraising stare. "I am asking you to do the right thing, and you know it, or you would not have come here so easily." She gave him a knowing thoughtful look. "We both know you could have refused. But you didn't. And that says everything."
Jack looked at her, trying to decide which way to go. She seemed to be genuine. But then she was a woman. He felt confused and did not like it one bit. Ok, fella, play along. "And what is the right thing according to you, that is?" Jack wasn't ready to give in just yet. "So, you taking over Earth and adding it to your collection of planets?"
"If a couple hundred years from now our people feel the need to join, then they will do so. None of that matters now if we don't take care of the problem we have today." She was still holding his hand. And she still had not answered his question.
"A couple hundred years? So, that's it. You do intend to conquer us." Jack held her hand more firmly. "What do you have in mind, lady, a world of laborers for your farm colonies? Or is the plan to just get rid of us, and be done with it?"
"Nothing so dramatic." She gave him a sorrowful look. "Jack, you are hurting my hands."
"I'll do more than hurt your hands if you don't answer me," Jack growled. But he let up some on the pressure.
She endured the grasp. "We can not steal your world from you. It is against our law." He did not release the pressure. "Think of this alliance as a marriage. Marriage is not conquest. It takes mutual consent. Both sides benefit and create a family. The larger the family, the safer everyone will be." She looked down. He was dangerous tonight. "For now, let's begin a courtship. We don't even know if we can get along together."
Jack realized he had gone too far. He released her. "I, I'm sorry. I should not have done that." He wasn't sorry but he had to say something. He'd gotten what he wanted from her. Probably. And he was probably going to jail for this. But then, she must want him badly or she would have called for the guards. He took his time giving her a thorough once over. She was a magnificent woman. It was difficult to imagine someone so beautiful and gentle as evil. Nothing she had said was so bad. Nothing she had done so far had crossed the line. And this gorgeous creature seemed to really, really want him. He wondered if he had lost his perspective.
Lady Anna stifled an urge to backhand him across the face for his audacity to hurt her. On the other hand, she reminded herself, she needed this barbarian. And O'Neill had just proved he was a magnificent barbarian. He would have killed her, if he thought it necessary. So she just rubbed her hands. She wasn't ready to look at him again, lest he see her anger. Looking down she firmly said, "No, Jack, you should not have done that." Anna rose and turned to leave. Instead she turned back and stepped up to him, looked him straight in the eye, and asked, "friend or foe?" He was surprised. He had come close to deciding to kill her, and she knew it. This woman had courage to stand up to him like that.
"I'm thinking friend." He reached for her hand. Anna hesitated, but she let him take it. "So, what's for dinner? I'm hungry."
The dog days of summer in Washington, DC make one wonder how anyone survived before air-conditioning. Throughout mid-August, water condenses outside on the windows and runs down in rivulets all day. People wearing eyeglasses discover their lenses fog up immediately upon exiting a building. Wet things mildew almost immediately. And dogs have a tough decision whether or not to go outside for a walk.
President Hayes had a few tough decisions to make that hot August morning. The United Nations Security Council demanded that the United States get the aliens to back off their demands or it would have to relinquish the Stargate to U.N. control. The Security Council unanimously rejected the American ambassador's suggestion to accommodate the Commonwealth aliens. The Security Council declared the International Commission overseeing the Antarctic base under their control and threatened to send U.N. Peacekeepers to the site. The U.S. veto was laughed off. Then the Security Council told the U.S. to comply by the end of the month. The other nations of the world unanimously agreed to declare war on America. As a result, America was at DefCon Three.
A day before, the Commonwealth Ambassador indicated that they were monitoring the situation. These folks hsf precipitated this whole fiasco. As such,they could not stand by and let the cataclysm of war destroy the Holy Mother Planet. The President wondered what the real price for this help would be.Apparently, for the sake of Jack O'Neill, they were willing to help his people.
At that moment, the Commonweath was trying to help itself vis a vis the Goa'uld. The Sabbath over, Commander Eli boarded the Super Dreadnaught Acca. The task force under his command had a date with a Goa'uld breeding facility. On the way, he ran and re-ran tactical simulations. His people were as ready as they ever would be. More importantly, this was the first task force of this size to go into combat. The eyes of the Commonwealth would be on them. This had better go down right. Intelligence estimates were correct. There were indeed eight Hatak class ships guarding the planet. That was all.
"Deploy the weapons pods and load countermeasures," ordered Commander Eli. He looked at the tense faces of the bridge crew. He himself showed no emotion. The crew had to depend upon him. "Raise shields after the pods are in tow and the FTL (faster than light) com drones are out." The ships had the advantage of speed, as the Hataks had not even noticed them. He wondered how close they could get. His fleet could activate the weapons effectively only within a narrow range and still remain outside the enemy's range.
"Sir, they have seen us. Enemy ships moving to intercept course. Sir, I have multiple ships discharging from the Hataks. We can ID Alkesh and Gliders on the way." The Commander nodded. There wasn't much those ships could do against Commonwealth shields. "Sir, we are in weapons range and have calculated a solution for the closest 4 Hataks." His tactical officer waited for orders.
"How many minutes until we are in range of 6 Hataks and still within the safety envelope?" Commander Eli wanted to get as many on the first salvo as possible.
"Two minutes to optimum solution, My Lord." The crew seemed to hold their breath those two long minutes. "Mark, solution optimum in twenty seconds," called the tactical officer.
"Fire!" Commander Eli watched the screen as the first round of missiles activated.
"My Lord, enemy Alkesh are making a bombing run. Brace for impact." Sirens went off. The vessel shook under the force.
"Damage report," demanded the Commander.
"Shields holding but reduced. We have a targeting solution on some of the Alkesh." The tactical officer was keeping his cool.
"Fire at will by the solutions." Commander Eli was still watching the missiles approach the Hataks. And then they disappeared as their hyperdrives activated. The 6 Hatak vessels exploded as the missiles reappeared inside the ships, never having to actually breach the shields. So far so good. "Have we computed a solution for the other two?"
"In progress, My Lord. My Lord, one of the Hataks is making a direct course for one of the SDs, the Hebron." The tactical officer put the ship on the holographic view panel. "Alkesh bombers are in energy weapons range."
"Fire at will, Tactical. Take out those Alkesh. Has the Hebron fired on the Hatak?" Commander Eli was getting worried. Maybe this Hatak had a death wish. It could do some serious damage, even to an SD.
"No, My Lord. Sending a plotting solution to the Hebron and the two nearest battle cruisers. No response, My Lord." The bridge crew already knew the problem. The crew on the Hebron was refusing to take life. It was not obvious that the other two ships would either.
"Send in more battle cruisers. Have them launch everything they have on that Hatak." Commander Eli watched with quiet desperation. "Launch our light attack craft (LAC). Have them make a run on that Hatak."
"Launching LACs, My Lord." Two of the closest battle cruisers changed course toward the Hatak. It would be close. The images of the ships merged together. The images of the LACs and the Gliders closed in on each other. The LACs fired their weapons. Several Glider blips darkened. But several LACs also went dark. The Tactical Officer felt sick. "My Lord, the Hebron reports damage and casualties, but it is still there. The enemy Hatak is destroyed."
"Order the rest of the fleet to mop up the Alkesh and Gliders. Beam aboard the prison ship any Jaffa who will surrender. Proceed to step two. Take out the planetary defenses as planned." Commander Eli looked around at his crew with appreciation. They did their duty. For this society, a new age had begun right here.
On the Capital Planet, Lady Anna and General O'Neill had finished their luncheon with key industry executives and were on their way to meet with the Planetary Governors. Jack was asked to speak and give his version of the "Battle of Vorash." The Lady sure guessed right. This subject never failed to impress the crowd. He was a big hit. The com system alerted her to a priority message. Lady Janelle's hologram appeared. Jack passed his hand through the motes of light. It just never got old for him.
"My Lady," began Janelle, "Admiral Zay reports operations against Baal's breeding facility were successful." She did not look happy. Jack was curious.
"Casualties?" Anna looked worried. Janelle was not pleased.
"Many, my Lady. One SD was crippled in the Act of Refusal." Janelle could not go on.
"Understood. Exile the entire crew to the Moon of Korash. We shall make an example of them. Notify the families involved. Penance will be required. Anna out." Lady Anna shut off the com.
"Act of Refusal? Penance? What's going on, Anna?" Jack was alarmed. This sounded awful. Anna took a moment. She was visibly affected. Then she turned to Jack with anger and sadness.
"This is exactly why we need you, General O'Neill. Baal got away from us on Earth last week." Anna drew in her breath. "This morning, our fleet engaged Baal's forces to destroy a Goa'uld breeding facility. The next generation Kull warriors Baal is making needed those prim'tah. During the engagement, one of our largest ships did not fight. We call it the Act of Refusal. I must make an example of them."
"They mutinied?" Jack was astonished. "Why, what is this Act all about? And what did you mean by penance would be required?" He had been looking for signs of weird and here it was.
"Our people take literally the Commandment not to kill. Many will sacrifice themselves rather than kill the enemy, even to defend their own families. There are clear exceptions to that rule in the Teachings. But some will not bend. Now you know." The Lady was visibly shaken. An entire SD had refused to fight in the heat of battle. "Penance is a public act acknowledging personal responsibility for moral turpitude. They are guilty of the murder of their comrades who died in the fighting without their support."
Jack was astounded. He had never heard of such a thing. He had never imagined these people were so serious about the Ten Commandments. Certainly most people on Earth gave them lip service these days. But these folks were a breed apart. "Anna, I am so sorry. I had no idea things were like this. This is part of that backlash about which you were telling me?" Jack did not know what else to say.
"Yes, I told you from the start, Jack. We have been a peaceful people for two thousand years. I've spent the last seven years since the Attack trying to turn this situation around. I've been building the military up from useless decoration to a force that can defend us." She spoke softly down at her hands. "Today you saw what kind of a struggle it has been."
"Anna, will there be any inquiry, a trial, some procedure to determine who was at fault?" Jack could not believe this summary judgment was for real. "What will happen to the crew?"
"Of course, the data recordings from all the ships will be reviewed by the Lords of the Admiralty. The commanders and officers of the other ships will testify. We shall attempt to learn from our mistakes. But, I assure you, every single person on that ship knew the consequences. We shall make an example of them swiftly." Anna looked at him with sad determined eyes. "They will live out their lives in exile never to return to us."
"Does this happen often?" Jack asked her. One look answered that question. "And you think I know what to do about all this?" She nodded. He frowned.
"Are you deaf, Jack? Or just not interested?" Anna was seething with frustration.
Jack realized that her back was up against the wall. She was reaching for straws. He had to be cautious. If she could pass sentence like that, she was more powerful than he had realized. This was really uncomfortable. He wasn't sure what to think. After all he had only known her one week. But she had shown him her hand. So, he pushed her a little more. "Why all those wacky demands back on Earth, Anna?" He knew if he watched and waited something would turn up. It always did. He just needed to goad her a little more.
"They were not wacky demands. It's a matter of perspective." Anna snorted in irritation. She looked out the window. "Trust me, Earth was a disappointment. We expected to find you more advanced." Anna saw his surprise. "Yes, Jack, a big disappointment."
Jack was offended. "Yes, we have heard that before. But we have our moments." She must be going somewhere with this. "So if we are so backward, why bother?"
"Right now, this moment, I am asking myself the same question." Anna met his gaze.
Man she was good. Really good. Jack just rubbed his eyes and said nothing. Poker was such an interesting game.
