Stargate Revealed: Politics and Power 8
by livi2jack

Summary: Jack is the nexus of events after the Stargate is revealed to Earth. The aliens are here and Earth powers respond. Assassins are after Jack. The Team works to protect him.

Rating: T
Category: Action/Adventure, Drama, Humor, Mystery, Holiday, Point Of View, Angst, Other
Season: SG-1 Season Nine
Related SG-1 Episode(s): 717 Heroes, Part 1, 718 Heroes, Part 2, 720 Inauguration, 901 Avalon, Part 1, 903 Origin, 909 Prototype
Related Atlantis Episode(s): 201 The Siege, Part 3
Featured Character(s): Jack O'Neill, Daniel Jackson, Samantha Carter, Teal'c, Cameron Mitchell, Hank Landry, Carolyn Lam, George Hammond, Steven Caldwell

Spoilers thru Season 9.
Holiday: Thanksgiving

Author Notes: Fanfiction deletes hyperlinks. So at the bottom I have sort of put them in. Use your skills to piece the links back together. There's reference for a map of the area I am describing if you use zip code 20008 and look for DuPont Circle and Kalorama, Massachussetts Avenue.

Feedback is requested.
Sequel to Stargate Revealed Series where aliens come to Earth looking for their hero, O'Neill the Great. Earth learns the secret and will never be the same.


Chapter 8 Boris and Natasha or "Hokey Smokes Bullwinkle!"
Northern Minnesota in late November is a shocker to those from a warmer climate. In late Autumn, temperatures are below freezing in the region known as the Northwoods. Jack's cabin was located in a forest containing a mixture of deciduous forest populated by maple, oak, poplar, and birch, as well as areas of coniferous forest. The Sioux Indian word 'Minnesota' means 'land of the sky tinted water.' There is plenty of water in Minnesota. The far northern counties of Minnesota include hundreds of small lakes. Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes. Actually, there are more like 15,000 lakes. Jack's cabin had a nice pond, with no fish.

The peaceful beauty of the forest and the water surrounding the cabin contrasted sharply to Lady Anna's pounding headache. She reached for a glass of water to down some aspirin. Lady Anna suffered stoically after last night's high drama and strong liquor. Just prior to the assassin's attempt on their lives, Anna tried beer and shots of tequila after consuming a box of chocolates and tea. With the alcohol, the sugar, and the caffeine in her system, she had a bad reaction. This morning she paid the price with a hangover. Daniel sat at the table with Lady Anna, chatting quietly over breakfast, very very quietly. Anna waited patiently, while Jack had his long shower this morning. At least she could drink some tea and eat some toast while waiting for the painkiller to kick in.

"So then, General O'Neill sequestered me in the tent of three of his warriors while the police were here. The warriors were making their dinners. I tried some of the food. The smells and tastes of the food on this world are so varied and fascinating." Anna looked into space, not seeing but remembering. "Then one of the warriors gave me something that burned my mouth terribly. I realized I was being poisoned. In terrible pain, I cried out. But then, someone gave me an antidote to take away the pain. It took a while for the burning to subside." Anna drank some more tea and winced in the memory.

"Oh, what did you eat?" Daniel was alert. This was a strange conversation. "Can you describe it?" Anna thought for a moment.

"He called it chili and showed me a tiny bottle which I think had red poison in it. He called it, um, uh, Tab-as-co?" Anna ate some toast. "They put the red poison on everything they ate." She tried to remember. "Dr. Jackson, it is a wise precaution to build up an immunity among your warriors. But they should have warned me. Lord O'Neill is a leader of immense foresight to order the men to prepare by developing a tolerance for poisons. He has more understanding of these matters than any of us ever imagined. He is indeed a Great Man."

"Yes, yes, we think so, too. He is really very wise." Daniel kept his tone level and the surprise out of his comments. "So, you do this precaution too? I mean build up your immunity to poison?" Anna nodded with her mouth full. "Really." Daniel knew he had made a discovery. "How do you do that?"

Anna's headache had not subsided even with the Earth painkiller Daniel gave her. "Since childhood, all royal children build up an immunity by ingesting different ones, the same as these young men." She took the jar of jam and spooned some on the toast. "I am learning to love the fruits of this world, Dr. Jackson. This is 'strawberry.' Jack told me." She smiled and offered him some. Daniel decided to join in to keep her talking.

"Is poison common practice, ma'am?" Daniel hoped he was casual enough. He bit into the jam covered toast. Oops, her eyes widened.

Anna realized she had said too much. The whole situation in the cabin had caught her off-guard. The pounding headache addled her mind. She should have thought before she spoke.

"No, not common." Anna became more guarded. "Thank you for your company, Dr. Jackson. I am finished." Anna rose to return to her room and take her messages.

Jack came in to get his coffee and sat down. He picked something out of the cup and drank gratefully. "So Daniel, why is my sofa out of place?"

"She got cold, so," Daniel gestured with the cup to the sofa, "she slept there fully clothed. "I gave her some toast and tea. Now she's back in her room. She's got a hangover."

"Aw crap." Jack thought about it for a moment. "Leave her there for a while. She's less trouble that way." He picked up some toast and nibbled at it. The bathroom door slammed shut. He winced. "Note to self: Never, never, never give an alien sugar, caffeine, and alcohol all together." Daniel snickered. "None of them know about sugar, just honey. She was nuts last night."

"There's a very good reason why she went 'nuts' last night." Daniel smiled gently and waited for Jack to butter the toast. "Jack, I discovered something important, something she did not want us to know."

"And that would be just about everything, Daniel. Can you be more specific?" Jack had had a tough night and wasn't into guessing games that morning.

"Well, I have been thinking about some things I heard and overheard while we spent time in the Commonwealth. And some of it made no sense to me then. But I just had a weird conversation with her." Daniel leaned into the table and indicated Jack should do the same.

"All my conversations with her are weird. What's new?" He frowned and ate.

"Out in the tents last night, she tried some MREs with the guys. You know the 'Meals Ready To Eat' our guys pack along. She thinks she was poisoned." Jacks eyes widened. "But it was just Tabasco. She said her mouth burned from the poison."

"She tell you that?"

Daniel nodded and began speaking rapidly repeating the conversation.

"So, what that tells me is that murder by poison is used at the highest levels." Daniel paused for dramatic effect. "It's all very Machiavellian."

"Oy," Jack muttered. It was going to be a long morning. "So, what have you got? Just give it to me, quietly."

"Everyone thinks she is making up this story about needing to come to Earth for her own protection while things are sorted out back home. I think she is telling the truth." Daniel gave Jack a knowing look and pursed his lips. He gave a look down the hall as Anna went from the bathroom to her room. "What if she really is marked for assassination? It would make sense to get away from those who could do it easily. She has given Earth and you every reason to want to help her. She's promised us everything the Stargate program has ever sought."

"So how does coming to Earth solve the problem? She has people here who could poison her too." Jack sniffed his cup and drank again. The idea of poison was unappealing.

"But it cuts out a lot of other people. And, it isn't easy to reach Earth anymore from the Commonwealth." Daniel got closer. "Why do you think she gave us all that equipment to secure the Gate Room? Think about it. She gave us a force field; a fail-safe switch to turn off unwanted incoming wormholes; a ZPM to power the force field; a biofilter to protect against germs and spores; medical devices; and anti-surveillance devices. She made the Gate Room impregnable to her own people. They can't come through the Gate anymore uncontrolled."

"You are quite the military mind this morning, Dr. Jackson." Jack was impressed. "Good analysis. I'm rubbing off on you." Daniel accepted the compliment.

"So while I was on the ship, I got to talking to some of the scientists. I asked them how long it took them to come to Earth by ship. You know what they said?" Daniel was on a roll. "They said it depended on the ship. Only the big ones can make this journey quickly. That's why they carry so much inside the big ones. When they do deep space missions, they have to carry the little ships and all their supplies for years. The 'O'Neill' is called a Base Ship and is big for that reason."

"Ok, but they have lots of big ships. We saw some of them." Jack poured some more coffee and sat down again.

"Yes, they do. But those are military ships. And Lady Anna controls the military and the shipyards that can build big ships. So you see where this is going?" Daniel was all proud of himself.

"Pretend I don't. Where is this going?" Jack was losing patience.

"Her enemies can't come in military ships without tipping their hands. And anyone with a ship big enough would be part of a very small group that could be identified. Very few transport ships are large enough. If one existed, she would have already requisitioned it. Or she would know which ones she didn't. If they come after her by ship, she discovers who's after her." Daniel sat back satisfied.

Jack thought about it for a minute. "But the Commonwealth is so big, doesn't she have other places to go and hide?"

"That's just it. I was thinking about that too. If her opposition could not get here so easily and we only just met, then she has a better chance here because her opposition isn't here either."

"Not much of a chance. She's only known us a little over three months. Granted she is resourceful, but I don't see it." Jack stood up to stretch.

"Jack, she has you. And to her and her people that counts for a lot." Daniel watched Jack frown in irritation.

"I don't think she believes her own press about me, Daniel," Jack snarked back at him. "Call it a feeling." He frowned. "My conversations with her are anything but the stuff of hero worship."

"While I was there, I kept hearing that there was a three-month deadline for almost anything I asked about. And once I overheard some talk about how Lady Anna had a three-month head start on her opposition. At the time, I thought it was something about her political agenda or her little war. But think about it. She has a three-month head start on her plans here. None of the opposition could get here. And we don't have any contacts with her opposition." Daniel thought for a moment. "Everyone wants to know why she picked here. From her point of view, Earth makes sense."

Jack thought for a moment deciding whether to tell Daniel the rest. Now that he knew this part, the base in the outer solar system made sense. Jack sighed. "Oy. Ok, Daniel. Good work." Jack checked behind him and was satisfied. "Daniel, this goes no farther than this room for now. Understood?" Daniel waved his hand to say of course. "She's building defenses out by Saturn. She's got a base and maybe some more. I get the briefing on Monday. For the past three months, she has been busy building defenses in our solar system." Both men realized the significance. Lady Anna was going to make her stand on Earth.

"Jack, before I forget, General Landry sent you this note." Daniel handed him the note General Landry gave him the night before. It was a list of topics needing clarification from Lady Anna's talk with President Hayes. Jack pointed to a few. "Did these and called him." Jack handed the paper back to Daniel. "I guess we just answered a couple here." Jack pointed to a few questions on the paper. "But, I don't think you will get anywhere with the rest today." Jack paused. "How's Bra'tac? Did he stay or go?"

"He is waiting at the SGC. He wants to speak to her as soon as possible." Daniel thought some more then added a question. "Jack, have you heard anything about how the Commonwealth got their Embassy here?" Jack shook his head no. "Because, I am wondering how they paid for it. Or did the President give it to them?"

"I don't know, Daniel. But it has been nagging at me for another reason. She took me to that island after the White House welcome. It was a big property with everything. I mean the works. I kept thinking, was this a hotel or something else? And I briefly wondered how she got it or paid for it." Jack was concerned now too.

"Apparently, they have some serious financial assets here. And a serious support network too." Daniel looked up to see Lady Anna approaching. He stood up as she came into the room. Jack didn't move. It was his house and he wasn't doing any protocol in his own house.

"Jack, I thought we agreed not to discuss certain matters without my authorization." Anna was cold as ice. She gave Daniel a hard look.

"You could hear all that? Wow. Good hearing." Jack smiled up at her. Then he got very serious. "Take a seat. Now." Anna reluctantly sat. "Let's get one thing straight. You trust me, then you trust my team."

"That's not the agreement, Jack." Anna said very softly and firmly.

"It is now. I can't do my job without them. You want my protection. This is how it has to be. Understood?" Jack was equally firm and spoke softly. They eyed each other, testing. Anna slowly lowered her eyelids to mean consent. "That's better. Now, we have to talk, let's sit in the living room."


Early that same morning in Washington, DC, Robert Kinsey, the former Vice-President and Senator, finished his work-out at the Washington Athletic Club. Since hosting a Goa'uld symbiote, he was cured of most of what ailed him. The Goa'uld cured his blocked arteries, his bad knees, and his prostate problem. Now he could work out at the level he did twenty years ago. And he didn't have to get up and pee all night long. Kinsey felt pretty good as he entered the steam room to meet his contact.

Kinsey didn't have long to wait. A man sat down on the adjoining bench. He didn't really like the heat, but Kinsey insisted on this location. The two exchanged generic pleasantries. Seeing no one else close by, they engaged in a more interesting discussion about affairs in the galaxy. After a few minutes, both were satisfied. Kinsey exited first whistling a jaunty tune.


Meanwhile, Emmett Bregman walked into the offices of CNB in Washington that Friday morning. He had a pitch to make for their 'News Magazine' show. So far, not much had been broadcast about the Stargate. Only his 'Heroes' documentary had aired. Of course, the usual news coverage with talking heads reported on the regular programs. Now with all the turmoil over the Lady's visit to the White House, it was a timely topic. In fact, the arrival of aliens to Earth was the hottest topic on the planet. Since he had first-hand knowledge of the Stargate and Stargate Command, it would be a natural for their 'News Magazine' program.

Bregman needed work. He had a contract to do an update on 'Heroes,' from three-months ago along with the unfulfilled contract to interview Lady Anna. His first attempt was an unmitigated disaster of epic proportions. She mistook him for the President. Then she flipped out at being asked questions by a nobody. He was lucky she didn't toss him out the nearest airlock. As a result, Bregman was not welcome in Washington power circles. And he had not found work for the last three months.

The Bregman documentary filmed two years ago at the SGC was ground breaking. The outgoing President wanted a record of what had been accomplished after seven years of ongoing missions. Bregman made a powerful documentary that earned him the respect of the military and especially of General Hammond. Even O'Neill grudgingly cooperated after seeing the director's cut. Bregman's piece aired after the President's speech to Congress, revealing the Stargate three months ago. The whole world had seen it.

Now, with the backing of the network, he should be able to cash in on it and make a comeback. He needed a big splashy piece to get him back on top. At the moment, he was persona non grata all over the political map. His disastrous attempt to interview the alien leader made the rounds. And some people, outside The Beltway, were beginning to question the validity of the Stargate Program altogether. Inside the Beltway, the area bounded by the freeway that circled the Capital, Bregman's professional reputation needed polishing.

"Good to see you, Mr. Bregman." The Vice-President of the CNB Network shook hands with him. Then he introduced Bregman all around the table finishing with Kendall Cross.

Since the network broke the story of the Stargate, Kendall Cross was delegated to report all things related. Kendall had been a reporter doing a story on the 'Prometheus' when her film crew hijacked the craft. The crew worked for a rogue N.I.D. group. The N.I.D. was the civilian oversight agency to the Stargate program. The rogue group got involved with a Goa'uld trying to escape off of Earth. He had promised them access to ancient weapons. But the hijacking went bad. Afterwards, Kendall reached an agreement with the government to keep the story secret in return for the right to break the story if the Gate ever went public. Since aliens revealed the secret of the Stargate three months ago, her role came to light. Now she was the news media's authority on all things Gate. After all, she had actually flown in a real space ship and met aliens. More importantly, she had a pipeline directly to the Pentagon's Public Relations director.

"May I say what a great pleasure it is, no honor it is, to meet you Ms. Cross. Phew, I mean YOU actually rode up there. "Emmett pointed to the ceiling. "Wow, and you got hijacked by aliens to boot. My hat's off to you, ma'am." He smiled charmingly. "You are very brave."

"Thank you, Mr. Bregman. We all saw your documentary on the work at the SGC. Very impressive." She nodded to the V.P. "Jerry here wants to know what you have in mind for a segment on 'News Magazine' as a guest reporter."

"Well, as you already know, I have worked with the SGC before. When the aliens came three months ago, the Pentagon brought me in to read the updated case files. They wanted me to do an interview with the leader, this Lady Anna. And they asked me about doing an update for 'Heroes.' So, I am right up to speed and can hit the ground running." The people around the table became more interested.

"What you don't know is that I have met Lady Anna in person on her ship." Bregman looked around for acknowledgement and got some. Of course they knew. Everyone knew it had been a disaster." As a matter of fact, I have even had a conversation with her face to face." Now he was getting some respect. Just having met the Lady had potential. "With some footage already in the can, I might add." Ok now he had their attention.

"You actually met her? Why didn't you say so in the first place, Emmett? I can call you Emmett, can't I?" The V.P. leaned in to the table indicating his surge of interest. He was pandering to the man. Of course he knew all about the interview. But he didn't realize the man had coverage recorded.

"Phfft, sure, of course, Jerry." Bregman made a polite chuckle back at him. "Why not, that's what Jack, er General O'Neill calls me." He eyed the players around the table for that reaction. Oh yeah, he was playing his cards right today. "He called me in to do an update on 'Heroes,' but then he got swept off to wherever they went. Did I mention, I went up to the base ship to meet with him?"

"Very impressive, Emmett. So, you think you can get them to let you finish the update?" The V.P. got down to business. "And, will they let you air it for broadcast?"

"That's what I want ask them. And with some extra push from the network, it should be a piece of cake. But actually, I have a different spin, maybe enough for a series or a Special report on the Stargate." Emmett knew they were ready to bite. Bregman saw his agent tense up. The ante had been raised. He was only supposed to ask for one segment.

"Oh, I see. Well, we have set our fall and mid-winter schedule for now." The V.P. was calculating his next move. "But I must admit, I am tempted." He smiled his best insincere smile. Bregman saw it and was disappointed. But his agent jumped in.

"Well, thanks for your time. We have a meeting over at CNN this afternoon. I'd like to do some more calls before then." The agent rose to shake hands and depart.

"What's your rush? You just sprung this on me. I have to think and talk to Kendall, here." The V.P. wasn't going to lose this story for anything. "What's your opinion, Kendall?"

"Well, I think it could be very timely." Kendall gauged her superior's body language. Yes the eyebrows were raised and he was twiddling his pen. "But, I am also thinking that would be a huge effort. There are so many angles. Perhaps, Mr. Bregman should do it as a team with us if he wants to do a multi-segment piece.

Bregman knew the gig had been sold. But did he need Kendall? Absolutely. It was a sure bet the Lady would never allow him near her again. But they didn't know it.

"Wow, that's such a compliment, my goodness. I mean I never expected to be able to work with you Ms. Cross." Bregman gave her his puppy dog eyes.

"Save it, Mr. Bregman. I think we have enough for a 'Special' what do you think, Jerry?" Kendall gave Bregman a look that said 'don't try to play me.' She knew he needed someone to interview The Lady as the press called her.

"Ok, from this point, I think your agent and our office can finish the business part of this exercise. Providing of course, that you have what you say you have in the can." He eyed Bregman again for confirmation and got it. "Welcome aboard, Emmett."


That same Thanksgiving Friday morning, Ambassador Aaron of the Star Commonwealth of Planets received his visitor with surprise, although he would never show it. Considering what went on the last two days since Lady Anna arrived on Earth, he was surprised anyone would show up at the Washington Embassy. But here was the British Ambassador and his staff. The new Commonwealth embassy staff was just settling in to their quarters that morning. Lady Anna had sent the previous group home in disgrace for their part in the disastrous security breach at the White House Reception in her honor. From this point forward, only Royal Clan members were to be on staff in the Embassy.

"Greetings, My Lord Ambassador," intoned the British Ambassador. "I thank you for receiving me on such short notice." Everyone made the appropriate responses. "I am instructed by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II to personally deliver to you this most sincere apology for the treatment Lady Anna has received on Earth. Her Majesty is distressed by recent events. Her Majesty would like to express the true sentiments of our world and welcome Lady Anna. Her Majesty has personally commanded me to present this Royal Invitation with this small token of affection for your Lady Anna. We understand that she favors chocolates and hope to please her with this assortment." The Ambassador presented the enormous box of fancy chocolates with the perfectly engraved invitation. From that point, the two diplomats enjoyed a brief but productive conversation. The British Ambassador left with the distinct impression that great progress had been made in interstellar relations. But then so did all the other ambassadors who came to call that morning.

The morning began with a slow start and dragged on in Jack's cabin. Jack poured another cup of tea for his Royal pain-in-the-mikta houseguest. He remembered that his grandmother used to say, 'fish and houseguests stink after three days.' Well, he had been her houseguest of a sort for three months. Jack guessed he owed her maybe three days. 'What was I thinking when I invited her here? What was I thinking when I got her drunk?'

"Dr. Lam says that the only real cure for a hangover is to re-hydrate yourself. So drink up." Jack indicated Daniel should top off her mug. Anna stoically suffered through it. The aspirin should be kicking by now. Well at least she wasn't a whiny female. 'One for you Lady.'

"Have a good time last night, ma'am?"

"I don't remember much. Something about being in a tent and eating something that tasted like fire." Anna drank more tea. "Somebody tried to poison me, Jack. My mouth burned and burned. I remember that part distinctly."

"Hot sauce. You tried some the SGC troops were putting on their dinners. It comes with most of the food they carry. We call them MREs or meals ready to eat. The choices with little bottles of Tabasco hot sauce are the most popular." Jack made himself comfortable in a chair. "So, never had chili peppers?" He grinned. "Maybe Earth does have something to trade with you people after all."

"You are wise to encourage the warriors to prepare. But they should have been more careful and protected me. Last night, I was fortunate that I have built up my own immunity." Anna smiled.

"Is that what you do? Build up an immunity to poisons?" Jack confirmed what Daniel had just told him. She half-nodded." If your people are against killing, why do you use poison?"

"In the highest circles of power, we knew about assassinations. The usual choice is poison." Anna sipped her tea. "I haven't heard of any poisonings in the last fifty years. As a precaution though, members of the royal family build up immunity, beginning in childhood." Anna sipped at her tea. "Did you find the perpetrator?"

"Oh for crying out loud, no one tried to poison you. You ate hot sauce. Some people love it." Jack was not very patient with her this morning. The news about high-level murders was important intelligence information. That explained this whole business. Some really powerful persons were trying to kill her for real. Jack had not been too sure she was truthful about the whole assassination claim. Her people professed religious revulsion to murder. 'Hypocrisy knows no boundaries. The President needs to know this.' He hadn't believed her either.

"Don't, Jack. I don't deserve it." She gave him a really hurt expression. He sighed, got up, rummaged in the pantry cupboard, and came back with a bottle of Tabasco, toast, and a glass of water.

"Ma'am, this is what you ate. Everybody likes it." He handed it to Daniel who opened the fresh bottle showing her the safety wrappings as he removed them. Then he put a single drop on a piece of toast and ate some to show her. Anna sniffed the bottle. She looked at him for signs of deceit. Then she tried it, jumped up, and grabbed the glass of water. He held out the toast. She took it. The pain subsided.

"Why would anyone voluntarily do that to their own food?" Anna drank Jack's water too.

Daniel explained the love of chili. "To counter the pain, your body makes chemicals we call endorphins. Some people get addicted to the extra production of endorphins. They put chili in everything. We call them chili heads." Daniel cleaned the table. Anna was looking at the bottle with interest. "The dry toast gets the chemicals off your tongue. Chili is not my favorite thing, either." He removed the bottle.

Phones rang. Jack got up and walked into the bedroom. Daniel went to the kitchen. Anna got up and went to her room too. She had her own calls to make. Sitting on the bed, looking out the window, she got her morning briefing. The hologram of her chief assistant informed her about the invitations arriving at the Embassy. Anna informed her assistant to prepare other venues for the evening. She wasn't about to stay here again. After clearing out her messages, she stood to gaze out the window. Snow began to fall. Too bad, fishing would have been fun.

Jack knocked on her door and received permission to enter. "Anna, I have to go to town to finish my report to the police. Then we have to go to the SGC. The Jaffa High Council sent Master Bra'tac there yesterday. He is waiting to meet you with urgent business." Anna thought about it and shook her head no.

"Jack, I am tired today. And I really don't feel like granting interviews. If you will permit me, I would really like to go with you to town." She rubbed her eyes. The headache was still present.

"Town? That's not such a good idea. But I do need to ask you to speak with Master Bra'tac." Anna looked at him with a question in her eyes. Jack tried again. "Ma'am, it is important that you meet with Master Bra'tac, today. He wants to see who you are. I am asking you as a personal favor to go to the SGC with me."

Anna nodded. "Then I need to go to the Embassy. Some business has come up. Now, I wish to go to town for a diversion. I need some fresh air."

"Ma'am, I am advising you not to go to town here. We are not ready to provide your security, yet. You can take a walk near the cabin." Anna sighed. Good, thought Jack. She would be reasonable. He went out to contact Landry. Bra'tac would get his answer. Daniel turned on the news. The TV blared out:

"This just in to our CNB news desk." Kendall Cross anchored the noon news hour. "Police in a small northern Minnesota town report an attempted murder attack on Major General Jack O'Neill. General O'Neill thwarted the attack last night around 10 p.m. at his vacation home in the rural Northwoods area of Minnesota. The attacker belonged to a racist hate group. But his attack seems to be the act of a lone gunman. No one was injured. Major General Jack O'Neill is famous for his courageous service venturing to other worlds through the Stargate. Most recently,..."

In the White House, President Hayes turned off the news channel. "Jeez, he isn't gone three hours and some nuts are already after him. Was the Lady hurt?"

"No, Mr. President. Her security equipment detected the intruder well before he could reach the cabin. O'Neill alerted the perimeter forces who took the target down with a zat. The man never knew what hit him." Jerry Wasserstein the Chief of Staff had spent the morning dealing with the situation. "You should also know foreign powers are inviting the Lady to visit. Her security is on everyone's mind."

"So how many countries have extended her an invitation?" Hayes was a politician to the core. He didn't want to be upstaged on any matter related to the Stargate.

"Most of the Gate Alliance Treaty nations have sent their ambassadors to the alien's embassy. We have rumors that many other nations are about to follow suit." The Secretary of State was working on an apology to Lady Anna and monitoring the situation. "There is a ground swell of criticism about the way she was received here in America. The others want to show us up."

"Great. Just what we need. Well, let them try to deal with her. They won't get very far, just like the last time. They don't have a clue who they are dealing with." Hayes was piqued. "Apparently, neither do we."

And neither did the authorities in Minnesota. But they sure were curious.

"Base, we have the car on the approach. Two people, yeah. Over." Mitchell looked at Sam and snarked, "Looks like we have the Mayor of Frostbite Falls, Minnesota on the way up the driveway to see Fearless Leader." He blew his nose. Cam called into the communicator to the guards walking with Teal'c and Lady Anna. "So where's Moose and Squirrel? Over." Some chatter indicated they were on the way back to the house. "Ok, Natasha, we're on."

"Natasha?" Sam was stumped.

"You know, Boris and Natasha. Right?" Cam was referring to the old cartoon; Rocky and Bullwinkle from the early 1960's set in the mythical Frostbite Falls, Minnesota. Sam just gave him a dirty look and got in position.

Lt. Colonels Cam Mitchell and Sam Carter supervised a thorough search of the car's inhabitants. The local Police Chief had decided to handle this matter himself. The Mayor, who wouldn't take no for an answer, insisted on accompanying the Chief as his prerogative. The Chief didn't appreciate it one bit. Now they stood in the cold while Carter watched the Chief relieved of his sidearm and his car. The two men transferred to an Air Force vehicle to be certain no car bomb would be close to Lady Anna. The Chief could understand the precautions. The Mayor was apprehensive over the security. They saw that two Lt. Colonels were supervising security. A high state of alert was in evidence all around. It was a sure bet the alien was here too. Sam drove them up to the house.

Rather than go into town and start an argument with the Lady, Jack had asked if he could finish his statement at the scene of the crime, his cabin. Considering how famous he was now, the Chief and the Mayor readily agreed, for security reasons of course. After all, they were as curious as the rest of the town. And they hoped to meet the alien. So, they readily accommodated their famous citizen.

The Chief climbed up on the porch he had visited many times with great anxiety. He hoped Jack would let them meet the alien, if she were here. Everyone figured she was. The news was filled with stories how Jack risked his life to go to the alien ship and open a dialogue with this alien woman. And the news told how she had been so charmed that she even named her ship for him. Everyone knew Jack had been invited to visit her world and meet with their King. This week, the whole town gathered at the Town Hall to watch O'Neill escort Lady Anna at the White House. The townspeople saw the attack and watched her defend O'Neill. Then they heard her speech praising their local boy's courage and valor to the sky. Even in the Northwoods of Minnesota, people felt pride that they were connected to important galactic events.

At the moment, Anna was still out walking with Teal'c. She would probably arrive soon back at the cabin. Lady Anna was curious too. Anna had asked Jack if she could meet some of the locals. He was still undecided. Jack opened the door to find two visitors holding bouquets of flowers. They looked like dorks, overly hopeful on a first date.

"How sweet. For me?" He asked sarcastically. The excited expectant faces told the whole story. Jack carefully looked them over wondering if a zatarc could have gotten out here. O'Neill was right to be cautious. The Goa'uld had a method of mind control, which lay dormant until the moment the programming activated based on an event decided long before. The affected person then destroyed himself after completing the mission or being prevented from completing the mission he knew nothing about. Considering the attack at the White House, anything was possible. Since the assailant last night did not try to kill himself, it was safe to say that fellow was not a zatarc.

"Well, actually Jack, we were, eh, hoping, well, you know. I mean we didn't want to be unprepared, just in case, although these could be, I mean if you like them, but if she isn't, is she? I guess these are for you." The Chief stammered out the whole embarrassing speech. Jack rolled his eyes skyward. He should have expected this reaction. "Um, we just have to know. Jack, did you really do all the things they say you did?" O'Neill just cocked his head and raised an eyebrow. Then he shrugged. "And is it true she let you fly that space ship?"

"Well, you know. What can I say?" He saw how disappointed they were. "She likes me." He smirked at them. The Mayor swallowed hard. The Chief was a friend. "I may have been a few unusual places. And yes, she let me drive."

"Ok, oh wow, Jack. Now can we hear all about it, inside? I mean it's cold out here." Jack gave them another once over and opened the door. Then he stuck his arm across to bar the way.

"Another thing, Andy, Barney, don't touch her. Let her speak to you first. And use your best manners. She's particular." Jack removed his arm slowly to let them pass. "Take a seat, boys."

"Um, Jack, a moment. Is she, I mean is she human, like they say?" The Mayor was suddenly apprehensive. Jack nodded affirmatively. "But she's not from Earth?" Jack nodded again. "One more thing, can she understand us? I mean how do you communicate?"

"Magnets. They have little magnets in their heads, which translate everything. Daniel?" Jack turned to let Daniel to do the explanations. Jack went to the back door to let her in. Before entering, Anna and Carter scanned the two men and detected no weapons. Carter was fascinated watching her do it. So, Anna let Sam fiddle with the device.

"Um, he was just joking. They don't have, um, use magnets in their heads." Daniel just looked at their apprehensive faces. "No really, he was joking. We don't know how it happens, but after you go through the Stargate, you can speak and be understood anywhere, except here apparently." They were horrified.

That is they were until they saw her. The men stood up in a hurry as she entered the room. They stood there and gaped open mouthed.

"She's the most beautiful woman I've ever seen and that includes the Miss America pageant," gushed the Chief. Jack shook his head. Celebrities must get this treatment all the time. But he wasn't used to it. Colonel Carter positioned herself between the two parties. And Daniel stood close to the officials. "I mean, nice to meet you, ma'am." The Chief tried to recover from acting like a dweeb.

"She doesn't look like an alien," the Mayor whispered to Daniel. "Where are the magnets? Do we need some?" Daniel gave them the look you give children asking a really stupid question. Then he gave a shrug and rolled his eyes at Jack.

"Why did you start this?" Daniel huffed. "You realize it's going to make the tabloids now?" He turned to the men. "She does not have magnets." They weren't buying it.

"Ahem, Lady Anna this is our Mayor and the Chief of Police. They want to pay their respects and welcome you to the town." Anna politely nodded to each of them. She went into her most charming demeanor. Why not? They were trying so hard. It would be a nice diversion. So she slowly approached the Mayor. He didn't know what to do. So he looked up at Jack and got reassurance to offer the flowers. Anna studied him for a moment. Then she decided to accept the flowers. She gently took the gifts, inhaled their fragrance, and smiled at each of the men. Both instantly melted in her presence.

Jack rolled his eyes. She did this to him when they met. What an actress. But she was being very sweet, for a change. If they only knew, what an impossible woman she really was. The men took the crime statement from Jack. When the police business was concluded. She thanked them for coming and making the process easy on her Lord General. Then, she took Jack's arm, he made a half wave, and together they vanished. The town officials would never forget the occasion, dining out on it forever.


By mid-morning that Friday after Thanksgiving, Landry was tired of waiting for Boris and Natasha to show up. Everyone dubbed them so for their code names. It wasn't lost on a soul that Jack's cabin in Minnesota resembled the cartoon version used by Fearless Leader in the mythical town of Frostbite Falls, Minnesota.

"Master Bra'tac, we have heard from Teal'c. Lady Anna is coming to meet with you here." General Landry stopped by Bra'tac's V.I.P. quarters on the base. "In fact, if you are ready, we can go to the briefing room."

"I see. What more can you tell me about this Hak'taur woman?" Bra'tac was still getting used to the idea that human females could be great warriors and leaders.

"She is very beautiful and cultured." Landry saw the doubt.

"If she and her people have so much anger toward the Jaffa, can they ever be trusted?" Bra'tac knew war could break out between the Jaffa and the Commonwealth if her answers were not satisfactory.

"Don't worry, she has learned the Jaffa are an honorable people. Your efforts to help her have made an impression. General O'Neill insists that she work with your people. So..." Landry led Bra'tac toward the Gate room. "you should know that she adores Jack O'Neill. For that reason, she allows Teal'c to come close to her, even sit next to her in council meetings. And that says a lot. As to her other qualities, I shall let you see for yourself. Only don't be fooled by her appearance. She looks like a young girl, but she's actually seventy-four years old. Look at her eyes." Landry used his fingers to point to his eye.

"Hmm. I shall look carefully." Bra'tac agreed.

It took a good twenty minutes to go through the diplomatic dance. Daniel made the greetings and introductions. Finally each took a seat around the SGC conference table. As Commander of the SGC, Landry sat at the head of the table. Jack was about to take the other end, and decided to give it to Lady Anna instead. He took his seat to her right. He was getting used to it by now. The place of honor was to her right, always.

Bra'tac did as Landry suggested. He looked into her eyes. He had never seen eyes like those in a human female. In them he saw everything he needed to know. This was a leader of great power. And she was not afraid to use it. Her bearing and manner spoke of a person accustomed to command. She expected to be obeyed without question.

Landry indicated Jack should start the meeting. Everyone knew that the Lady responded better to O'Neill. Jack took a softer approach than the last time he asked about her plans toward the Jaffa. Worried she would attack the Jaffa; Mitchell had accused her of wanting Jack's expertise to learn how to wipe them out. A whole diplomatic incident occurred. It was one of the low points of the three-month visit to her people. So he was careful this time in his approach. But the diplomatic courtesies tried his patience considering what went on the night before.

"Ma'am, Master Bra'tac was informed that someone is attacking their planets in the outer rim. They were wondering if you had any information about that."

"No, we have not authorized attacks on our Jaffa allies. On the few specific tasks we have jointly cooperated, they have behaved bravely." Anna turned to acknowledge Master Bra'tac. Turning back to O'Neill, she said in an offended voice, "we are trying to form an alliance with them because of you, General."

"Ma'am, I believe you have misunderstood us. It's just that we know you have intelligence assets out there that could help us find out who is doing this." Daniel tried to soothe the situation.

"Thank you, Dr. Jackson." She kept her face immobile, knowing that attacking the Jaffa was exactly what O'Neill had asked her. Were her forces attacking the Jaffa behind her back? "I shall instruct my staff to assist the Jaffa nation in their investigation. I do not need an incident with the Jaffa High Council."

"My Lady, the High Council is ready to break off diplomatic relations with you because they think you are doing it." Bra'tac kept a level tone. "I am only informing you about the situation."

Then, she looked Bra'tac in the eye. "In spite of what we know many Jaffa Masters are doing, we have refrained from military actions toward our new allies." She turned back to O'Neill. "Out of respect for you, My Lord General O'Neill, we have been patient."

"Ma'am?" Jack heard what she said. It was carefully worded. He was learning to listen carefully when she spoke. "What about non-allied Jaffa worlds? What is it that you know they are doing?"

"Not all Jaffa are so good hearted as your friends, Masters Bra'tac and Teal'c. But then, you know that." Anna's face was a mask. Jack folded his arms across his chest, thinking, 'Oh here it comes.' "There are Jaffa masters who have carved out their own territory. On those worlds, usually rich in naquadah, they hold many millions of human slaves. What does the Jaffa High Council do about this?" Bra'tac kept a stoic face but inwardly cringed.

"The High Council knows there were problems between the Jaffa and the humans on many former Goa'uld worlds. We have O'Neill's warriors working with the High Council to resolve the disputes." This news was important. She had excellent intelligence, thought Bra'tac. "What are you doing about this information, My Lady?"

"Master Bra'tac, other than continuing our surveillance, nothing. It was important to learn how the Free Jaffa would perform as allies. They have behaved honorably." She met his eyes. Everyone heard her emphasis on the word 'free'.

"My Lady, I shall speak to the High Council and let them know your concern. Perhaps you would be kind enough to provide us such information as you can as regards this serious matter?" Bra'tac knew she had him dead to rights.

"Master Bra'tac, we thank the High Council and yourself for this opportunity. A dialogue about such serious matters is preferable to conflict. However, we believe the High Council has much information regarding the situation as well. Would they be willing to share with us?" Anna kept her face a mask. Anna wasn't going to give them any information about where she might strike.

"I shall use all my influence, My Lady." Bra'tac knew many lives hung in the balance. She would act if the High Council played games with her.

Lady Anna's charisma and gravitas came to bear. Anna spoke to him sternly. "We regard ourselves as the voice of all the enslaved humans all over this galaxy. We congratulate the High Council for their capacity to shed the old ways and work with human societies. We take it as a sign of goodwill." The phrasing was polite but the threat was obvious.

"Yes, My Lady, I will let them know. Thank you for the clarification." Bra'tac paused to phrase the next question. "If I may inquire, My Lady, what will you do to show your goodwill to them?"

"You mean beside continuing to commit our great resources to defend all our allies against the new System Lords and to wreak havoc on their associates?" Lady Anna played her trump card. She regarded him coldly. Yes, let him take this message home. "Master Bra'tac, as a continuing gesture of goodwill, will you let my ambassador address the High Council so we may update them on our latest operations?"

She knew non-Jaffa were not allowed to address the High Council. Anna tried to suppress her anger. She had not ordered the attacks. But someone may have. The plans were already made when she halted the preparations. Before she formed the alliance with Earth, there had been a few operations to rescue a limited number of human slaves on a test basis. The results were mixed. Through Teal'c, she began diplomatic efforts with the Jaffa High Council. But she never authorized any more rescue operations, preferring diplomatic avenues. 'Who could have ordered more attacks? Did Admiral Zay, my second in command, betray me, too?'

Plots against Lady Anna reached deep into the Royal Clan. For that reason, her cousin, Captain Amos was the commander of her personal yacht the 'Benjamin.' Disengaging the two ships inside the wormhole, Amos launched the 'Benjamin' to continue on to Cestius Three. On the other ship, his clan Elder informed him that his destiny was to marry Lady Anna; thereby settling the issue of Royal succession. But the whole incident made him uneasy along with his natural reluctance. He never imagined he would be asked to do such a thing. Meeting in secret to the extreme just experienced was bizarre. But then having assassins after the Lady was unnatural. Well sort of unnatural, he thought. She did have many enemies. But she was the anointed 'Judge of All the People.' The Lady had the High Priest's blessing along with the full support of the King. Worried, Amos plotted a course to his destination with deep foreboding.

Lady Anna's enemies grew exponentially after the Goa'uld System Lord Apophis torched the Commonwealth planet Asher. Lady Anna had initiated efforts to build a defense force. The opposition was stiff. The Defense Force became the Admiralty behemoth that existed today after seven long years of struggle. Lady Anna had to turn her society upside down and inside out to do it. Political opponents were many. But religious opponents focused on her. The fanatics wanted her dead. Adding to the opposition were the inter-clan conflicts. With the loss of so many in the Royal Clan, the succession to the Crown was in doubt. Lady Anna's own children had perished along with her husband and she had not remarried. Instead she turned her attention to defending the realm. But, the Commonwealth was a peaceful people unaccustomed to war. They abhorred taking life. The unpleasant truth was that Apophis would certainly be back, or at least one of his minions. The Commonwealth was unprepared to fight. For the last two thousand years, the Commonwealth did not know war. Lady Anna made them get busy preparing. For her efforts, she garnered the ill-will of normally competing groups.

However, Apophis met his fate at the hands of Jack O'Neill and SG-1. During those seven years, Anna learned of O'Neill's efforts, hardly believing the reports. She used O'Neill as a propaganda tool to motivate her people to work hard and form a military that could defend whole planetary systems. She built a great intelligence network that brought fresh reports of SG-1's activities. Finally, that intelligence network brought news of O'Neill's victories over the Goa'uld. Each new success fueled her propaganda until O'Neill became the greatest hero in the history of the Commonwealth. Then she set out to find him. Three months ago, she got lucky. Three months ago she accidentally outted the Stargate to the world. Earth would never be the same, neither would the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth reaction to O'Neill's arrival was stupendous. People, who did not believe her, saw the man and knew it was true. Her opposition lost their supporters. Politically, Lady Anna's star was ascending. Her detractors became more desperate as her victories against the Goa'uld brought the desired effect of low death counts and high rates of ships captures. O'Neill gave her the means to satisfy their revulsion for taking life with the warfare strategies of his people. He attacked shipping and logistics, tactics that lost few lives. In the Commonwealth, even the most opposed to Lady Anna realized even relatively unsophisticated societies could fight back. And now, they had no excuse not to do so themselves. Support for Lady Anna and Lord O'Neill grew by the day.

To stay in power, the opposition had to act and do it soon. The King was old and Anna was the last of his line. If she married and had heirs, they would lose the best opportunity ever to pass the Crown over to another clan. Even Anna's own clan had factions with their own agendas. Each of the various factions decided now was the time to act precipitously. Some acted on their own. But others who wouldn't normally, teamed up.

Many assassins were after the Lady. Her clan matriarch urged her to keep a low profile while internal matters were negotiated. As much as she trusted her own clan matriarch, Princess Ellen, Anna never left anything to chance. She had to regroup and figure out how to deal with both the external and internal situations while other efforts applied pressure as well. The problem was knowing many parties were after her and not knowing who to trust. O'Neill was an outsider to the whole mess and a brilliant military mind. Lady Anna gave him every reason she could to entice him to help her. That effort was having mixed success. Still, the only person she could reasonably afford to trust was Jack O'Neill.

The SGC meeting with Bra'tac adjourned with action items for follow-up. Anna excused herself to visit the medical center. Last night in the forest, she had injured her hand. The new medical equipment at the SGC could repair it quickly before she left the base. After her wound was healed, Dr. Lam noticed a small fracture and treated it as well. Curious, Dr. Lam used the new equipment to run a bone density test as part of a routine physical examination. To test the new equipment, Dr. Lam ran a complete diagnostic test to check her knowledge on the new equipment. After the bone finished regenerating, Dr. Lam released her and continued the analysis. What she discovered was startling. Lady Anna was a truly unique individual. The doctor put in a call to Landry and asked him and O'Neill to come down.

When Lady Anna returned to the briefing room, Sam and Daniel offered to take her to the cafeteria to sample more Earth foods. It was a good diversion exercise. Anna was curious about all the different foods she found on Earth. Since the Lady was hungry, she agreed readily to sample more food. The rest of the group diverted to the med lab. It was tough to say which was more startling, the results or the reactions.

At the SGC, the base scientists were conducting a study on how advanced genetically the base people were. Most were only at 5 on the scale calculation the progress toward Ascension. The medical staff routinely ran the check on all new people as part of the scientific study. They used the device from Anubis' lab, which measured the ascension capabilities of Khalek, his clone. The device revealed some new information on Anna, too. The "Ascendometer" as the SGC jokingly referred to it, revealed that Lady Anna was well on her way to ascension at 24.

"I thought I was advanced," sighed Jack.

"You are, sir," answered Dr. Lam. "According to the machine, you are only slightly less advanced than she is. It could explain why the Asgaard are so interested in you both."

"Yes, let's not go into that." Jack remembered how last week Thor had both of them on board his new ship, the 'Daniel Jackson'. Without permission, Thor tested Anna's genome for clues to resolve the Asgaard's cloning problem. The other Asgaard got really excited at the result. They arrived to run more tests on her. At the time, she was treated like a lab rat and subjected to scrutiny, unable to move. Jack protested enough that Thor ceased the research and let her go. Man, was she pissed. "Did you tell her?"

"No, I only just got the results after she left. Then I called you, sirs." Dr. Lam was concerned. "We know that advanced humans can have impressive capabilities. I would be careful."

"Remove all this data from the system and keep only paper records about it. No one sees this information without my authorization. Send a copy to the President, eyes only." Jack took the initiative. "And no one tells her."

That afternoon, the White House got the news hand delivered by special courier.

"This day just keeps getting better and better." George Hammond threw the briefing folder down on the table in the Oval Office. As President Hayes' Off-world Advisor, he had his hands full with Lady Anna's visit. "It's not enough that she is scientifically advanced. Now we find out she's on her way to Ascension?"

"She doesn't know, George. At least we have that. She has no idea what her own capabilities are." President Hayes sat with his advisors after reviewing the letter of apology to Lady Anna. "And I don't want her to ever find out. Are we clear?" Heads nodded vigorously.

"What now, Mr. President?" Francis Maynard, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs frowned.

"Francis, the Lady likes rustic. Up in the Northwoods last night, O'Neill had her up to his little Camp David for aliens. So let's invite her to the real thing. I want her to come to Camp David this weekend. The Sabbath is about to start for her. She can rest up there with total security. O'Neill can come too if she wants." President Hayes smiled his politician's smile. "I will have a chance for some quality time with her, too." His idea was not well received by the others.

"What? I'm a nice guy. Now I have a chance to prove it and get something done in the process. Issue the invitation. Now go."

A flash of light brought Jack and the Team to the Commonwealth Embassy in Washington, DC. Lady Anna had gone on ahead from the SGC to conduct her business before the Sabbath. As her head of security, Jack wanted the team to have a tour of the embassy. Jack carefully looked to see his surroundings before moving on. It was fit for the greatest System Lord. Daniel noticed that the walls were decorated with enamels, painted lacquers, and gold. The floors had soft patterned carpet in muted colors. The ceiling moving a three-dimensional representation of the constantly changing sky entranced Carter. The lighting was soft and calming. The furnishings were of the best quality. The place was extremely clean. Daniel nodded in appreciation.

"Welcome, My Lord General." I am Ambassador Aaron of the Commonwealth." Aaron approached and bowed. "Our Lady must receive one more Earth Ambassador. Then you can have the tour." He bowed and greeted O'Neill formally and gestured to the way down a hall. "I shall show you to the Lady's reception room." Jack followed along with the Team trailing behind looking at all of it. An abstract statue on display morphed into another representation as he passed. Jack jumped back startled. The walls seemed to be a lustrous translucent material he had never seen. An arrangement of flowers turned into a group of colorful butterflies fluttering and dipping in a small area above a cabinet. Then they became a flock of birds singing on a small enameled tree. The group stopped before sumptuous doors worked carefully in jewels and gold filigree. An intricate design covered the entire set of doors. Teal'c immediately saw the meaning of this display of wealth and artistry. These humans had progressed as far or farther than the Goa'uld.

To the Ambassador, Daniel said, "I see your people are skilled artisans. This work is the finest I have ever seen." Ambassador Aaron was pleased and thanked Daniel for noticing. Jack approved. He knew he had Daniel along for a reason. They entered to a room furnished opulently. Lady Anna sat at the opposite end in an ornate costume with many jewels woven into her hairstyle. As the team approached, she rose to greet them. Teal'c gave her a slight bow and head nod. Colonel Carter was apprehensive about Lady Anna for many reasons. She saluted. Daniel was completely distracted and delighted in the art. He forgot to do anything. Jack was bored and hungry and didn't care. Lady Anna noticed but said nothing. Truly, someone was going to have to re-acquaint them with proper protocols.

Across the street, the assassin on the rooftop checked his gear and rolled back to observe the Alien's Embassy. Ever since the call two days before, he had staked out the Embassy, waiting. It was a certainty that either the woman alien or O'Neill would appear. He was warned about force fields. A practical man, he still had difficulty believing in such theatrical science fiction. But he did as instructed anyway.

The Commonwealth Embassy was located in Washington's exclusive Kalorama neighborhood. All the best Embassies located themselves along or around Massachusetts Avenue, just Northwest of DuPont Circle. The circle is named for Admiral DuPont, a civil war hero. In the center of the circle is a lovely park with a two-tiered marble fountain, carved with the figures for the Wind, the Stars, and the Sea. The Commonwealth Embassy had a good view.

In 1791, a Frenchman named Pierre L'Enfant planned the city of Washington for his friend George Washington, the new country's first leader. After surveying the site, L'Enfant developed a Baroque plan that features open ceremonial spaces and grand radial avenues, while respecting natural contours of the land. The result was a system of intersecting diagonal avenues superimposed over a grid system. The avenues radiated from the two most significant building sites that were to be occupied by houses for Congress and the President. Traffic circles around parkland dot the city. Massachusetts Avenue was a wide tree-lined boulevard radiating from DuPont Circle out toward Rock Creek Park.

In three months, the Commonwealth managed to purchase and renovate the large property on Massachusetts Avenue. Obviously, someone understood finances. It had to cost a fortune. The CIA was still trying to trace it all out. No one knew how they managed to purchase let alone provide the funds to renovate the 19th century mansion. Where they found the materials, no one knew. But the fact remained; The Commonwealth Embassy was the showcase of the neighborhood. And it was not widely known to exist outside of Washington's power circles.

Inside the Embassy, Jack watched Anna receive another ambassador. It was quite a show. He wasn't so sure she wasn't overdoing it. But it was having quite an effect on the old man bowing to her. Jack watched with a stoic expression showing no emotion. He was getting tired of this dance. Why did she want him absolutely everywhere she went? For three-months, he was in her company or under her personal control all over the Commonwealth Capital, out on ships, and in secret bases. He decided he needed his space. They were going to have a talk tonight after this shindig.

O'Neill only half listened to all the diplomatic speak from both sides. He wanted to sit down. He wondered how she kept up the pace after last night. He considered the last evening as a diversion. It was a shocker to see this controlled woman pie-eyed. Yet, here she was doing her part even though he knew she was tired. The Team was tired and wanted to sit down too. Whatever was going to happen here, was a manipulation that eluded him. He just wanted her to finish. Jack appeared to be distracted when in fact he wasn't missing any details. The look on the ambassador's face told him that her message was received loud and clear. It also said, there was respect for her. 'Well, good, now could we all just go and eat,' thought Jack?

Jack lived in the moment at times. He watched the proceedings with less and less attention. Wow, she smelled good. And her outfit was form fitting to show the exquisite detail of her figure. She was a beautiful woman that was for sure. He tried to keep his eyes forward, but they kept wandering to her hair and the details of her body. Her voice was melodious and pleasant. He could, he could, what? Jack caught himself in his reverie and tried to refocus. She fascinated him. And she was old enough to be his mother, ok not his grandmother as he had thought. And she still looked to be twenty years old. Being with her was unsettling. Jack definitely did not like being kept off balance.

Teal'c saw O'Neill's attention wander to the woman. What he saw disturbed him. It was not like O'Neill to obviously dwell on such thoughts. Jack was clearly captivated by her. Teal'c wondered about the truth of Landry's assessment that she adored O'Neill. It appeared to be the other way around. O'Neill wanted to spend time with this woman. The Jaffa resolved to talk to O'Neill about it. Something about this was not right.

After the audience, O'Neill, Teal'c, Carter, and Daniel walked out to the street. Ambassador Aaron walked with the Russian Ambassador to his limousine. Jack breathed in the crisp November air. The bright autumn day was coming to an end. No leaves remained on the trees. Traffic flowed in a steady stream. The Commonwealth Ambassador made his excuses and retired to the building in deep conversation with Daniel and Carter, leaving the General with the Russian Ambassador and Teal'c.

"Impressive. Obviously these people wanted me to see the message that they are a great and powerful people." The Ambassador glanced around the street. He wanted to stretch a moment and get a private minute with the world's greatest hero." It is a pleasant day. Come with me General O'Neill, let us walk a bit from here." Jack was surprised, but agreed.

"We are all concerned about these people. They are too powerful, too advanced. We can't help wondering what they want here with us." The Ambassador paused. Jack gave him a hard look. "I know you cannot divulge state secrets. But I see how the two of you have a good relationship. Is she sincere about helping Earth?"

"Oh, you know me, sir. I'm just a military man. I provide Earth's security forces for her. You should ask The Lady." Jack turned to bring the Russian Ambassador back to his car. Jack could tell something was bothering Teal'c. The limousine door opened for the Russian ambassador. "So, off to see the Wizard?" Jack joked.

"I was not aware there was a wizard in Washington. To which wizard do you refer?" Teal'c cocked his head and regarded O'Neill with patience.

Jack cocked his head right back. Then he turned to the ambassador who was amused. "So what did you think?" The man shrugged.

As the Ambassador turned to enter the car, a shot rang out, and then two others. The corner of the building next to Jack's shoulder splintered off. Another shot blew off his hat. It all seemed to happen in slow motion. Teal'c went down with a hole in his chest. Jack dove for cover pulling the Russian Ambassador down. Jack drew his pistol. There was no one to shoot back at. Teal'c lay on the sidewalk with his life draining out. A crowd started to gather. Guards came out of the embassy. Someone dialed 911 for help on a cell phone.

The Embassy security system alerted Anna to the attack. She saw it all happen on the holographic screen. Watching helplessly, she yelled for someone to get help. All she could think was to reach O'Neill. The corridors seemed endless in her haste. At last she reached the exit to the street. As she lunged out the door, one of her guards grabbed her and held her back.

"JACK!" She started screaming orders to get them all inside. Jack turned and saw her being pulled away from the doorway with a look of anguish on her face. Her guards knelt next to Teal'c and activated the transporter. People screamed. The Ambassador's car took off. Jack was left standing on the bloody sidewalk completely exposed with his gun in his hand. There was nothing to do but go inside and wait for the police.

The assassin had his exit well planned. Or so he thought. He was several blocks away when he reached his vehicle. Walking close to the car was a fashionably dressed woman with her little dog. She walked purposefully toward the assassin and sent a dart ripping into his arm. The poison acted swiftly. Two men caught the body and loaded it into an unmarked van. No trace of the killer was ever found. This assassin knew her business.


Source: 1.http/www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/wash/dc50.htm, http/www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/wash/lenfant.htm. 2. space .com /bonestudy040315.html 3.mapblast .com enter zip code 20008 and look for Kalorama or DuPont Circle for a map of the area I am describing.

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