Major Samantha Carter unlocked the supply closet holding the Quantum Mirror in search of some flashlights. Colonel O'Neill had insisted that it was time for the routine swap, and had delegated the task to her…very hesitantly- or not…
She laughed. At least this time she had come alone. Last time, Jack had come with her to "show her the ropes." He had very nearly "accidentally" locked them in, and she had nearly "accidentally" not realized what he was doing.
But in a moment of sheer panic, she put her foot in the way of the door, holding it open.
She laughed nervously at the memory. That had been without alien interference. Memories of the Virus of the Touched from the Land of Light, Amnesiac drugs enforced by Slave Holders, and other occurrences had definitely played with the black line held in force by the Pentagon.
As she reached for the flashlights, she heard a small whimper. She looked over at the Quantum Mirror and found a seven-year-old girl seated on the floor next to it, crying. Her long, brown hair was draped over her face as she hugged her knees, sobbing quietly.
"Hello." Sam greeted.
The girl's head snapped up in surprise. She looked bewildered as she studied Sam.
"I'm Sam. How'd you get in here?"
The bewildered look in her clear, blue eyes was replaced by sadness. She shook her head and pointed to the Mirror.
Sam extended her hand. "Will you come with me, please?"
The little girl accepted the outstretched hand and stood up.
"Do you feel like telling me your name?"
Grace just shook her head.
"That's okay. But I have to take you to meet my boss."
She nodded and clutched Sam's hand.
"Just remember…you're a very brave girl."