So here it is – the epilogue! Thank you to all of you for 'coming along' with me on my journey as a first time writer. I have so greatly appreciated all the comments and encouragement. I'm definitely planning a sequel – hopefully starting soon – which will look at Jack and Sam's life together (and who knows – maybe baby - sorry I love Jack with kids). Take care everyone and again, thank you!

"Ooof" Daniel gasped as he flew, much too fast, out of the event horizon. He ended up practically running down the ramp in order not to fall flat on his face.

"Jack! Whadya do that for?"

"You know very well, Danny - don't play innocent with me!"

Daniel just looked up at Jack, who was standing at the very top of the ramp, and grinned.

"I'm sorry – I couldn't resist."

"Well, I suggest you resist from now on – unless you're lookin' for some serious payback!"

"Yes Daniel. The General is right. I would strongly suggest you resist any attempt to speak, sing or mime anything you may have heard on the planet", threatened Sam with a heavy frown.

"Oooh, I think they're serious Teal'c."

"Indeed Daniel Jackson, I believe they are. I think you would be very wise to practice discretion from now on."

"Yup – don't worry – I'll be soooo discrete you won't recognize me!"

"Fine – you'd better be."

"General, Colonel, glad to have you back." General Landry welcomed them as he entered the gate room. He looked quizzically at the foursome, wondering what in the world they were discussing. Oh well, knowing them he would hear soon enough – or not at all. If there was anything about SG1 – both the old and the new – that he could count on is that they were never predictable. Anyway, it was nice to hear the banter – he had been a bit worried about Jack but it sounded like he was now in fine form.

"How did everything go? Any problems? Are you both …" At that moment he got a good look at Carter and O'Neill.

"Good God! What's happened to the two of you? Teal'c, Jackson, can you explain this? Is this actually General O"Neill and Colonel Carter?"

"We think so General – at least we're pretty sure."

"Don't worry Hank – it's us. But we'll get checked over" (as if they had any choice, he thought). "It was just a lovely piece of Ancient Technology that kind of made us look a bit younger. Other than that we're the same." Inside both he and Sam gave a figurative 'snort' – knowing that in fact they had changed with the Joining.

"All right – well, I'll take your word for it for now but I want you to go straight to the Infirmary. I'm afraid you'll have to be tested and I'll have to let the President and Joint Chiefs know. Other than your 'new looks' anything else to report?"

"Not really Hank – at least nothing we can discuss here. Once we've been checked over we can debrief."

"Okay then – I'm afraid I'll have to have the SF's escort you to the Infirmary. Sorry Jack – I can't take any chances."

"Don't worry Hank – I'd do exactly the same. All right folks, it's off to big honkin' needle land."

Accompanied by two SF's General O'Neill and SG1 headed to the Infirmary for their post mission checks.

"Everything checks out Sir." Dr. Lam could never compare with Janet Frasier as a person, as far as Jack was concerned. He still missed the tiny but fierce doctor. He did, however, know that Carolyn Lam was a competent doctor. So he was pleased when she declared that everything looked okay. After what he and Sam had been through he had been a bit worried.

"So nothing unusual Doc? I'm me and Carter's Carter?"

"Yes, absolutely. No evidence of cloning and you are certainly human. The only thing I noticed was a slight increase in brain activity. According to your records it's similar to what happened when you received the Ancient download – although not nearly to that extent. Colonel Carter is showing similar activity to a slightly lesser degree. It doesn't appear to be affecting either of you, however. Are you noticing anything?"

"Maybe I'm a little smarter! Other than that, I don't think so. We were exposed briefly to some Ancient technology but the aliens assured me it wouldn't affect me – or Sam I guess – the way it did before. So, are we good to go?"

"Yes, for now. I would like you to check back first thing tomorrow morning. I just want to be sure nothing is happening, although for now everything looks fine."

"Great – can we go then? Can you call Hank and tell him so he can call off security?"

After all the formalities had been taken care of and Dr. Lam had told Landry her findings, the entire Team made it's way to the Briefing Room. As they walked, Jack and Sam continued to communicate silently.

"What are we going to say, Jack? Do we tell General Landry the truth? If we do he'll be forced to tell the President."

"Yeah I know. I think for now we tell them the bare minimum until we see what happens. I don't like to hide anything but if the wrong people get hold of this information it could make life hell for us. For now, let's just keep it simple. Are you okay with that?"

"Yes – I suppose. I still don't know what we should tell them though. And Jack?"

"Yeah, what is it?"

"What about the other thing?"

"Other thing? …. Oh, you mean the destiny thing?"

"Yes, we need to talk about that."

"Ya see, there ya go again with the wantin' to talk. Geesh

"Jack! What, you want to just ignore the whole thing?"

"Na Sam, I'm just kidding. Of course we need to talk – but not now, not here. After we're done why don't we head out somewhere. Somehow it seems wrong to be talking about all this while we're here and still technically in the same chain of command."

"That didn't seem to bother you back on the planet!"

"Yeah – but there I could blame it on the aliens. Here, I'd have to take full responsibility."

"Not full responsibility. I'd have some part in it too you know."

"There – ya see! I always knew you were smart Carter. Why didn't I think of that? Instead of blaming the aliens I'll simply blame you. Any normal, red blooded male would know I didn't stand a chance."

The 'silent' conversation came to an abrupt end as the two officers reached the Briefing Room. As they made their way to their customary seats, neither noticed the strange looks that were passing between Teal'c and Daniel.

As Jack glanced up he saw Daniel staring at him with a knowing look on his face.

"What? What is it? Why are you staring Daniel? Did I do something wrong? Is there spinach on my teeth or something?"

"Uh no Jack. You guys might just want to be a bit careful. Unless you want to share something with the rest of us you had better learn to talk to each other without letting on to the rest of the world."

"Daniel – what do you mean?" asked Sam.

"Well, it was pretty obvious there was some kind of communication going on between the two of you. If you don't want other people to catch on you're gonna have to learn to be more discrete about it."

"Shit! This is gonna be harder than I thought. Thanks for the warning Daniel."

"So, it's true? You are communicating? Are you telepathic?"

"Can we not talk about this right now? There are too many prying eyes and ears around here."

"Okay, sure. But later – we want to know what's really going on with you two."

"All right Daniel – later okay?"

Just then Hank made his way into the Room.

"Sorry folks. I just got off the phone with the President."

"What did old Henry have to say?"

"He wants you to call him, Jack. I reassured him that you were okay – and that you were you – but I think he's still concerned. I told him you were exhausted but that you'd be in touch tomorrow morning. Okay – so tell me what went on down there. The last we all heard you had disappeared and were being labeled the "Chosen One" by the people on that planet. What the heck was that all about and what happened to the two of you?"

"Basically, Hank, they wanted to test me to see if I was worthy to save the world. So, all they had me do was live and in some cases relive certain events. Basically it was kind of like those tests of valor you see in the old Knights of the Roundtable movies. Once they'd determined that I was worthy they let us go."

"And that's it? So once you were found worthy what did that mean? And how did Colonel Carter fit into this whole thing?"

"They didn't expect her but she grew on them after a while. They then added her into the whole – destiny thing."

"And the destiny? What's that about?"

"Ah, that's the tricky one Hank. If you're okay with it I think I need to speak with the President and General Jumper first. Colonel Carter and I have to work some things out and then we'll let you know. Suffice it to say that everything is fine. I'm fine, Carter is fine. It was a bit hairy down there for a bit I - we got through it with SG1's help – as always. Hank, if it's okay, I'd like to head on out. I'm exhausted and really need to crash for the night. I promise I'll be back first thing in the morning."

"All right Jack. I understand. Just make sure you check in with Carolyn first think tomorrow. She wants to run a few tests again on both you and Colonel Carter. Colonel, I'm sure you're tired as well – why don't you all finish up here and head home for some rest. We'll meet again as soon as Dr. Lam has checked you out in the morning and you've had a chance to talk to the President. General – did you want to stay in the VIP suite tonight? I think your things are still there."

"No thanks Hank. Daniel has offered me a room at his place. Thanks and we'll see you all tomorrow."

After Hank had left Daniel turned to Jack. "Jack, you know you are more than welcome to crash at my place but I don't exactly remember talking to you about it before?"

"I know Danny, I'm sorry. I really need to speak with Carter tonight and I couldn't very well say I was going to stay with her. After we've talked if it's okay I will take you up on that offer though."

"Sure Jack, no problem. I'll leave the door open for you – just come whenever and make yourself at home. Uh guys – let me just say that I'm really happy for you both. I know you have lots to discuss and figure out – but I think things are going to work out just fine."

"I concur Daniel Jackson. I believe it's time for you both O'Neill – to finally enter into the relationship you have both desired for many years. You are good together and we are very happy for you."

Both Jack and Sam looked grateful, but embarrassed, at the words of their colleagues.

"Thanks guys – we appreciate it. I'll see you later Danny."

"Okay and Jack!"

"What?"

"If you don't show up I won't worry about you!"

Dead silence met this comment– although both Daniel and Teal'c grinned and then left the Briefing Room – Daniel giving them a quick wave and Teal'c nodding his head regally in their direction (although it lost something with the silly grin plastered all over his face!)

"So Colonel Carter, I guess we can go."

"Yes General – let's!"

Jack grabbed his duffel bag from the VIP quarters where he had left it prior to heading to Trelea. Man, he thought, that seemed like a whole life-time ago. He laughed softly to himself – I guess in some ways it was. He now felt as if he were embarking on a whole new life!

Walking out side-by-side, but never touching, he and Sam left the SGC and headed to Sam's place in her car. Once they arrived they both collapsed on the couch – too exhausted to move.

"Pizza?"

"I guess – although I think I'm too tired to even eat. I'd just like to go to bed', sighed Sam. "I don't know if I'm really all that hungry right now."

"Me neither – and bed sounds really great right now, but I guess we should talk before tomorrow. We have to decide what I'm going to tell the President and Jumper."

"Yeah – you're right. So, why don't you order pizza and I'll get the drinks. If you don't mind I'd like to take a quick shower and change while we're waiting. You're welcome to do the same if you'd like."

"Definitely. Go ahead and I'll order. When you're done I'll take my turn. If I don't come back just check to make sure I haven't fallen asleep in the shower."

"Okay – if you'll do the same for me."

"Gladly", he grinned. "In fact, I think I'll check on you just to make sure."

She laughed. "Yup – incorrigible Sir! I'm pretty sure I'll be fine." She said over her shoulder as she walked out of the living room.

Still grinning Jack ordered pizza and then settled down to wait. As he sat on the couch he began to think of all that had happened to him and to Sam. It was the first moment he'd had to really contemplate all the possible changes in store. No matter what he and Sam decided (and here he kept his mental fingers crossed) he knew that things couldn't be the same. Just his new looks and body were going to cause questions to be asked. He couldn't very well see himself going back to the Pentagon looking like a 30 year old. Youth was not exactly a great prerequisite for high ranking officers. He must admit, however, that it sure felt great. As tired as he was, he didn't hurt anywhere and felt stronger than he had in years.

The one thing that he was having real problems thinking about was the idea of starting a family. On the one hand it was exciting and gave him a real buzz of – he didn't know what – happiness maybe? He thought about the lonely Christmas he had just spent and realized – hey he could actually look forward to it again if he had a family.

On the other hand, he found it scary as hell. He, more than anyone, knew the potential anguish that could come – the potential for loss. That, however, was something he would just have to deal with. He recognized that that fear would probably always remain, but he knew, deep down, that you couldn't not live, not do things and make choices out of fear for what might happen. If that was the case, he would have folded his tent and gone home a long time ago.

No, what was bothering him more than anything was Sam. He didn't know if she even wanted children. She had obviously decided not to have a family – or had let the opportunity slip by, whether through choice or circumstance he didn't know. He didn't know whether she would want to give up her career to have a family with him. Oh, he knew that for most women now days that was no longer a choice they had to make. However, with the whole issue of the regulations and chain of command she might be forced to make that decision.

Well, again it could come down to that same dilemma – career vs. family and relationship. He knew that that was something he would never, could never ask of her. It had to be her decision totally and absolutely. What really frightened him was that she would decide to have children with him, not because she really wanted to, but because she saw it as her duty.

God! His head was spinning and he could feel himself getting all worried and depressed again.

"Stop it Jack!", he thought. "just wait and talk to Sam."

"Jack?"

"What is it Sam? All done your shower?" he looked up and saw her standing there with wet hair and in her bathrobe.

"I was just finishing when I felt something wrong. What is it Jack? What's bothering you?"

"You felt it? You felt that something was wrong?"

"Yes – it's as if you are upset about something but I can't tell what. Can you tell me Jack? I thought everything was good between us", she said looking very worried.

"God Sam – everything is fine between us. It's not you. I'm just trying to work everything out and it's all going round and round in my head. Please don't think it's anything bad. I'm just thinkin' too much here."

"Well, that's obviously a sign of the Joining."

"Whadya mean?"

"You must have picked that up from me. That's usually my reaction - to think too much", she smiled tentatively, still standing by the entrance to the living room.

"Come here Sam. I'm sorry", he said as he walked over and put his arms around her. "I forgot about the 'sharing emotions' thing. You know I love you and everything's gonna be fine. We just need to work a few things out."

Just then the pizza arrived. Sam got some sodas (beer would have put them both to sleep) and they ate in companionable silence.

"All right! That's better. If you don't mind, Sam, I'm gonna take that quick shower now and change. Then we can discuss this."

"Okay, take your time." As Jack headed off to the bathroom it was Sam's turn to think. This was also the first time she had had an opportunity to try and process all that had happened. In many ways it was pretty wonderful. The Joining – both the alien one and their joining (she actually could feel herself start to blush at the thought – oh, grow up Sam!) had been amazing. She and Jack were truly together now and she knew in her heart that it was forever. But, she was concerned at how Jack was feeling. He was obviously worried about something.

"Okay Jack O'Neill. What's got you worried this time?" she thought to herself. "Now, this is Jack we're talking about so what could it be?"

She knew that he was probably worried about the idea of children – after what had happened to Charlie. She didn't think it would be that, however. She knew him too well and knew that he wouldn't let fear stop him. Oh, she could imagine that he would be hyper careful about certain things were he to have more children, but that's totally normal. So, what else could it be?

As she sat there it suddenly came to her. Of course! It's not himself he's worried about. He never worries that much about himself – it's always about other people. Okay, he didn't want us to get together initially because of his age and because he thought it could harm my career. Age is no longer an issue (she definitely hadn't processes that one fully yet!) but I'll bet anything he's thinking about my career right now. The bloody idiot! Of course that's what it is. Ooooooh just you wait Jack O'Neill.

Sam sat fuming on the couch waiting for Jack to finish his shower. When he finally came out, hair damp and wearing sweat pants and a sweatshirt, Sam looked over and glared at him.

"What? What did I do? Are you mad at me? Did I use all the hot water?"

"Jack, just tell me one thing. What were you thinking about before that upset you?"

"Uh, nothing really – just a few thoughts going around in my head."

"Jack – you know one of the really cool things about the Joining? I can tell when you are lying!"

"Shit", he muttered to himself. "Okay, the truth is I was just wondering what this whole thing is gonna mean for us – well really for you."

"I knew it! So help me General Jonathan Jack O"Neill, if you've been sitting there deciding to sacrifice yourself and your bloody destiny for some misbegotten idea that you will destroy my career than I'm really gonna follow through on my warning of the other day."

"Warning?", he asked. So much had happened he couldn't remember what she had warned him about.

"Yes – I'm gonna come over and kick your ass! You will not make a decision based on what you think is best for me. This is my decision to make. Jack, don't you get it yet? You are way more important than my career. You always have been. We've been offered something wonderful – something truly miraculous. That is way more important than whether or not I get to stay with the Air Force. Please let's not screw this up for some reason that really doesn't exist anymore."

Jack looked at her in wonder. Yes, as each day went by he became even more sure that he had found a true treasure. He had been blessed by God and by the universe – he was truly the luckiest man alive!

"Okay Sam. You win! No, I take that back. We both win. You're right; I have no right to speak for you or to decide what you want. So tell me, what do you think we should do? What do you want?"

"I want to start a life with you Jack. I want us to be together and I want to have those children with you. I want you to take our son or daughter to the park and swing them on the baby swings. I want to come home to you and our children. If they eventually save the world then great – but I just want a simple life Jack with you by my side. We've been given a whole new chance. Let's not mess it up."

"And your career? We may have to choose Sam. I can't see them letting us be together the way things stand."

"Fine. I said it before and I'll say it again. I, Samantha Carter, choose you Jonathon O'Neill. You see, you are my Chosen One."

"Yeah", he said quietly, "I can't think of anything I want more, Sam, than to be with you and have a family with you. So, I guess we're gonna do this thing? Tomorrow I'll talk with Jumper and the President. God, that's going to be some discussion. I hope you're prepared Sam. We could be in for a wild ride."

"Bring it on, General, bring it on." With that she walked into his arms and kissed him passionately – a kiss that claimed him once and for all as hers.

As they settled back together on the couch, quietly resting and thinking about all that had happened and all that was ahead of them Jack slowly smiled, that lopsided grin he got whenever he thought of something especially good.

"What Jack? What are you thinking?" she asked, looking up at him.

"I'm thinkin' that I guess I am a Chosen kinda guy!" Reaching down he wrapped his arms around the woman of his dreams, his 'soul-mate'. Yup, he thought, his dreams had come true. He felt like he was gonna live forever!

The End (for now!)