Epilogue

Jack walked toward the academy hospital holding four year old Katie and three year old Shifu's hands. Sam was waiting for him in the waiting room. She smiled as Katie jumped into her arms. "Long night?" he asked with a soft smile.

"Vala really did great. Daniel was a nervous wreck. I'm glad they asked me to be here with them. She's absolutely beautiful, Jack," Sam said hugging their little girl tightly. "How did you do with these two little troublemakers?"

Jack laughed, "Let's just say I'm glad we only have one." Sam laughed then Jack thought about it a moment, "Sam, why do you suppose we didn't meet Shifu in the future?"

"Well, they did tell us they were keeping some secrets."

"Yeah, that's true. When Daniel wanted to go looking for him, you didn't hesitate. Want to tell me what that was about? Weren't you the least bit concerned something might happen before Alexandria could even be born?"

"I was actually more concerned that she wouldn't be born if I didn't send Daniel. I knew Vala would never let him go alone, and they seemed awfully far apart. They needed a nudge. I was honestly a little surprised when they actually brought back Shifu, but I'm so glad he's here. I like being Auntie Sam." Turning her attention to Shifu, "are you ready to meet your baby sister?"

Shifu squealed in delight and Sam whisked him up into her arms and took him to his family. Jack looked down at Katie. Life had certainly taken some unexpected turns over the last few years, and things weren't likely to slow down much. They had a planet to evacuate, a daughter to raise, and who knew what other surprises might be in store, but Jack was happy. He couldn't imagine things any other way.

July 18, 2050

Alexandria exited the gate on Keb. She was greeted by several of the children in her brother's care. Auntie Alexandria went straight into her auntie mode and started passing out candy and hugs. Her older brother watched until she'd finished then scooped her into a big hug, "It's so good to see you little sister. How are my niece and nephew?"

"They are good, Shifu. They send their love. I think you've added a few since my last visit."

"Twelve," he said with a smile. "Let's go to my office and have a cup of coffee. You can make your case then I'll let you down easy."

"You really aren't coming, are you?" Alexandria asked as they walked.

"No, I really can't get away."

"We both know that's not true. You stay holed up here on this world. When's the last time you even went through the gate?"

"You know why I can't?"

"Yes, yes, the only way to win is to deny the battle. That's stupid, Shifu. You control your memories. They don't control you. You're not a threat. I don't believe you would ever act on those few memories you've retained. You are a good man. Come, honor Dad's memory. Watch him walk through the gate with me."

Shifu sighed, "the journey of a thousand miles begins with one."

"Seriously, Shifu, none of that nonsense. I'm your sister, not your student. Don't you want to see our father one last time?"

"Let me finish please. The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step and the man at the end of the journey is not the same as the one who began it. I'll remember our father as he was at the end of his journey. I know seeing him is important to you. It's your way of honoring his memory, but this is mine," Shifu said as he pointed to the sign. It read The Daniel Jackson Children's Sanctuary.