CHAPTER 27: Another Briefing & Friendly Chats
Sunday 1000hrs: SGC Briefing room... "Please be seated everyone." General Hammond said scanning the room. "Anise, I would like to thank you for coming to our aide. I understand that you were able to increase the effectiveness of the antidote." He stated noting her choice of attire. George wouldn't have believed if not for his own eyes. Anise was sitting at the table wearing the 'I Love Brad Pitt t-shirt'everyone was talking about.
"You're welcome general. We are forever in your debt for finding Egeria, our queen mother. The tau'ri technology is greatly appreciated too. It has helped us to combat the goa-uld more effectively. I personally enjoy your entertainment items. Time passes more pleasantly now." She answered then bowed her head allowing Freya take over.
"Yes, we Tok'ra are very grateful for our renewed alliance. I know we haven't been appreciative in the past. We are no different that the tau'ri. It takes time for change to happen." The tok'ra explained. "You very welcome Freya. We are pleased that we could help. Were also value your alliance and sacrifices that you have made." The general returned the gesture.
"Colonel O'Neill will make a full recovery general. He should be able to return to duty by Tuesday morning. His ancient gene saved him from a horrible death. Nirrti used a similar poison once. The devastation it caused was near catastrophic. We also took the time to heal Dr. Jackson and SSgt. Nantz. Their injuries are completely healed. They can return to duty once Dr. Frasier releases them from the infirmary." The tok'ra explained.
"Col. Maybourne, do you have any idea how such a poison got on earth?" George asked very concerned. "No Sir, but I'll try to dig deeper." He answered sincerely. "Agent Kerry, Agent Barret. I want the two of you to work topside on this. Find out what you can. This poison is too deadly to ignore." The two agents nodded in agreement. "Major Carter, did you find anything on Shanahans computer referencing this poison?"He asked. "No Sir, all I've found was what I already reported." Sam told him without hesitation.
"Anise, I believe you had a request." Anise nodded then spoke. "We do have a small request General Hammond. Would it be possible to go see a movie and do some shopping? The other tok'ra gave me a small list." Anise responded holding out a list that fell to the table. "I don't see why not. I'll arrange it later on; will that be fine for you?" George said holding back a laugh. "That would be acceptable General Hammond." Anise answered with a slight bow.
The host and tok'ra were excited at the prospect of getting out of the mountain. They both loved the tau'ri movies. Freya enjoyed going the movie houses better than watching DVD's. There might even be a Brad Pitt movie playing. A trip to the mall would be wondrous to. There were so many choices and the atmosphere was intriguing. "Right now I would like for you to work with Agent Johnson and Barret. Your familiarity with the poison will be of great help." he asked hoping that with her help the source could be found. He also knew full well what ever team assigned to escort her wouldn't be happy. "It'll be our pleasure general." Freya answered.
"I'm glad to hear that." He replied with a smile. George then turned to the CMO. "Dr. Frasier, what do you have to report?" George asked seeking confirmation of the tok'ra earlier opinion. "Anise/Freya is correct on their prognosis of Colonel O'Neill. He should be his normal self by noon Tuesday." Janet confirmed. "You mean complaining, being a pain in the arse pestering you about getting out early." Lt. Col. Malcolm Reynolds interjected smiling. "Yes, and I wouldn't have it any other way." She responded with her own smile. "I couldn't agree more. The colonel grows on you despite his gruff personality." The general added.
Sam just sat there listening holding back tears of joy. She had broken down in the shower. Her tears mixed with the water hiding them form the other women. Sam was in Anise/Freya debt. It was a debt that she could never repay. They had saved the love of her life. Her prayers were answered by God. She'd never doubt his power ever. God had worked through others to provide a miracle. "Major Carter, are you not well?" asked Teal'c. "I'm fine Teal'c, just grateful is all?" She answered smiling to show her happiness.
George heart warmed hearing her words. He knew once Jack did make a full recovery they'd talk. Then his goddaughter would be asking him for that transfer. George would grant it immediately given that the MLB (Military Leadership Board) already approved it. "Dr. Frasier please continue with your report." The general ordered.
After taking a drink of water she continued "Dr. Jacksons leg injuries were completely healed by Anise/Freya. He'll have a brief physical therapy just to make sure. Once complete he'll be ready for active duty. The same goes for SSgt. Nantz. I would like to thank you once again Anise/Freya. The two of them would have had a long road ahead of them if not for your help." Janet added. "It was our pleasure doctor. If our help is needed anytime during our stays please don't hesitate to ask." Anise/Freya answered. "I'll keep that in mind." The CMO replied with gratitude.
"Lt. Colonel Reynolds, how did the new codes work?" George inquired remembering what happened on Cimmeria six months ago. A large group of non-jaffa fooled the men guarding the gate wearing SGC uniforms. The large battle that followed was costly. Fortunately superior training and weapons saved the day otherwise Cimmeria would have been lost. Protocol and codes were changed due to that battle. The attacking forces happen to be in the service of Ba'al. This was in of itself was disturbing. The goa-uld was adapting their tactics and weapons causing more problems than before.
Malcolm smiled then answered "No self respecting goa-uld or jaffa would sing 'I'm a little tea pot' so I think were good." Jayne grumbled under his breath getting the attention of the general. "Do you have something to add Sgt. Cobb?" Jayne was caught off guard but answered still. "The new codes worked well. I just don't like being made out to be a fool in front of allies is all, Sir." He replied honestly. "Sergeant, this job isn't normal as you know. If you want to stay alive some unorthodox things will take place. So if singing a child's song keeps our allies and you alive so be it. Is that understood?" the general lightly reminded Jayne half smirking. "I Understood Sir." Jayne responded crisply.
"Sir, what's the status of my brothers' team. Shouldn't he be back by now?" Malcolm asked concerned. "I was just about to get to that colonel. SG3 reported in on schedule with good news." George replied with a smile. This gave Sam more hope. If Thor was on his way Jacks recovery would be guaranteed. Janet noticed her friend sit up straighter. She even smiled wider after the general informed everyone of SG3's success.
"My brother made contact with the Asgard High council!" Malcolm questioned. "Yes he did colonel. Two hours ago to be precise." The general confirmed. "Sir, you're never going to hear the end of that one." Major Zoe Washburn informed her co. They had a running bet who would contact the Asgard first. The bet was the first round of beers for the winning team.
"Indeed this is good news. The Asgard considers O'Neill an ally and friend. They will not let him perish." Teal'c commented. "You're absolutely right Teal'c. That's the impression Col. Albert Reynolds got." George replied smiling for the next part was of great importance. "They're attempting to get a hold of Thor. In the mean time they are sending their newest ship, The O'Neill II. It's a Super Dreadnought battleship. Major Carter, I would prefer you NOT blow this ship up. The Asgard High Counsel is giving us the ship as a thank you." George told the assembled group.
Everyone was speechless at the news, except for Jayne. "Ya, major...I don't think Col. O'Neill would appreciate it either." Jayne piped off. "Ouch...what did I say now?" Jayne asked rubbing his forearm. "Major Carter solved a problem using what was available. There's no need to incriminate." River explained. "Thanks River, he was out of my reach." Sam replied with a smile. "You're not going to destroy it...are you? I mean you're not mad at the colonel again." River asked innocently. Everyone broke out in laughter including the general. "No, River. I'm not mad at the colonel. I wasn't last time. The ship is safe. If it's as advanced as they claim I'm going to be having fun." She responded with good humor.
"Major, I wish you luck keeping Colonel O'Neill occupied. You'll be lucky to keep him from taking a road trip." Walsh said chuckling. "You would be right there with him. I know how you are. You can't resist a shiny new machine." Zoe deadpanned. "General, the Asgard giving us one of their shiny new ships is great. I just wonder if there's not more to it." Malcolm stated what everyone was thinking. George looked around the table gauging each person. He was debating whether or not to tell them the real reason for the ship. Deciding he spoke up once more.
"What I'm about to tell is NOT to be repeated, understand!" The general said getting yes Sirs from all. "Colonel O'Neill came to me with an ideal for an alliance. He thought it out completely to the last detail." George said with respect toward his 2IC. "Basically the colonel wants to create a Federation of Planets (don't own, just borrowing) similar to Star Trek. The Asgard and Nox have already agreed to it in principle. That's the reason their sending the O'Neill 2. It's the Asgard way of solidifying the alliance." The general finished with a big grin.
"Does that mean we'll be aiding in the Protected Planets treaty?" Walsh asked wide eyed. The O'Neill 2 was in need of a pilot. Maybe he could be the first to take it out he thought to himself. "Don't get any funny ideal Captain Washburn. You're staying here with us." His wife told him sternly. Walsh's felt mild disappointment. There was always that chance that they would get a ship for themselves.
"Once the treaty is finalized the PPT will be a part of the FOP. We'll be responsible as everyone else. Full disclosure will follow hopefully enabling the world to step out into space fully." The general informed them happily. The assembled people were in awe of the colonels' ambitions plan. If it worked earth would be secure for generations.
"Col. Albert Reynolds has gated to the Nox home world. His team is completing talks with the Nox leadership. SG3 should be back some time tomorrow." The general added. "Dang it, that two rounds I owe him now." Mal said out loud. "Lt. Colonel Reynolds, a word of advice. Never bet against your brother like that. He's the diplomat; you're the gun fighter." George advised him with a smirk. "Is there any questions, concerns or comments?" the general asked everyone. "In that case your all dismissed. Remember the Treaty talks are classified." He reiterated.
Colonel O'Neill's recovery was the main topic talked about amongst SG25. Janet and Anise headed to the infirmary to check on Jack once more. Anise was also going to assist the CMO in healing others in need of help. Sam held back letting the room clear. She was thinking about what Anise and Janet had said. Jack would be fully healed by Tuesday. If they were lucky the general would give them some down time. Sam smiled brightly as an idea popped into her head. Fishing sounded like a wonderful way to spend some potential down time.
"Major Carter, you look much better. The news that O'Neill will recover fully is very welcome is it not." Teal'c stated. "Yes it is Teal'c. Can I ask you a question Teal'c?" He had been to Jacks cabin once. Teal'c would know what is like. "You may ask me anything Major Carter. My knowledge is at your disposal." he replied with a bow. She smiled at the jaffa's answer. "What's the colonels cabin like?" Sam asked as she turned to look at the stargate. "O'Neill's cabin reminds me of my former house without the mosquitoes. They are formidable foes." Teal'c said with dislike then continued. Sam held back a snicker.
"The inside is very masculine. It could use your touch." Teal'c answered honestly looking at the stargate as well. "My touch Teal'c, why do you say that?" she asked currishly. "The cabin is in need of a woman's touch. Your presence would make the house a home for O'Neill." Sam turned giving Teal'c a befuddled look. "He showed me pictures of his former wife and Charlie. There was happiness in the pictures that is absent now." The jaffa explained with a hint of sorrow for his friend.
Sam felt for Jack. A parent should never outlive their kid. She thought back to her miscarriage. The pain that she still felt was bearable now. At the time she had to speak with a physiologist. The loss almost consumed her ending her career. Flying F-15's during the first Gulf War helped her bury the pain. "I'll see what I can do Teal'c. Thanks for the information." Sam replied thanking her friend with a hug. Teal'c returned the hug which was a rare show of emotion. "I'm here for you Major Carter, anytime." He answered then left her alone to think.
Sam left after taking one more look at the stargate. The life she had since first stepping through it has been a rollercoaster ride. Sam wouldn't change that part of her life for nothing despite the pain and suffering. She started humming happily as she left the room.
1053hrs: Washington D.C. in the same non-descript building an email is received. This time it's a smaller man in his late 30's with red hair. The agent height is about 5'6" with smallish build. The other guys call him McGeek because he's a computer know it all. He wears the same suite except that the jacket usually gets tossed across his chair. McGeek was so focused on his work that he missed an email 20 minutes ago. "What's this? I got another email from ComicNut1. I wonder what he sent me today?" he muttered to himself annoyed at the interruption. McGeek selected the email getting an awesome fan drawn picture of FIRESTAR (from the 1980's cartoon: Spiderman & His Amazing Friends. Don't own.) The artist, whoever they were, did a great job. She was striking a pose in front of the New York skyline. The caption read "Am I HOT or what?" McGeek was a proud child of the 80's. He grew up watching the Spiderman cartoons and live action movies. Spiderman was just about his favorite next to X-Men. McGeek hit the decrypt button watching the picture fade away.
Minnesota: Two headed Barbie Doll figured out solution to problem. I can't get close to Minnesota because of Redheaded Napoleon. General doesn't trust me. Advise elimination of Barbie and Napoleon. This would ensure Minnesota's collapse.
Agent Frost (aka Major Rollins): Frost is now liability. Due to unknown reasons cover was blown. Frost awaits interrogation by Double Eagle and SPC River Tam. Interrogation set for Monday morning.
Agents Red & Blue: SGC & FBI received intelligence from Double Eagle via Blue's cloned laptop. Dorothy has decrypted newest encryption. Plans A & B are a failures. Agents Red & Blue are being watched by FBI. Good News, all evidence leading back had been eliminated. Bad News, Blue's service record came to light. It's being made available to Internal Affairs.
Final: There's something big in the works for the SGC. Unable to get intelligence thus far. No one is speaking about closed door meeting. Will try different angel when heat dies down. Please advise on course of action desired on the previous issues.
McGeek read then reread the report taking everything in. This wasn't good at all. Their plans for retribution were falling apart. The Big Boss whoever he is won't be pleased. The boss man had a real hatred for Minnesota. He put in his suggestion based on field experience and operative longevity.
Final analysis: Eliminate Double Eagle as previously planned if possible. PRIORITY Targets: Retire Agents Red, Blue and Frost. They out lived their usefulness. McGeek selected a different picture for the cover...Larry the Cable Guy: Get 'er' done!