Destiny's Footsteps

by Anaika Skywalker

There have been some changers at Stargate Command and General Jack O'Neill is bringing someone into SG1 that will keep Colonel Mitchell on his toes. A brilliant young archaeologist named Jackson.

7. Chapter 7

Disclaimer: Don't own it, wish I did, I just like to play with SG-1 once and a while. I'll put them back when I'm finished. I promise. (And if I owned it, Stargate SG-1 would run forever.)

Beta Reader: (Original): Pollyanna

Beta Reader(2013): Edited by Jon from stargatetwins dot com (Typo's are all mine.)

Reviews: Scottiedog: I'm not sure how regulations go with Kayla being a civilian, I would however think with her being on the same team it could be a problem. It will sort itself out though. Stay tuned. And stay tuned for more Margo and Jack. Cassandra Jean: Hi, thanks for the review. I'm glad you like the story so far. I have to agree with you there aren't many Mitchell stories out there. As for the 'Farscape' references – I have all the box sets and the movie. I love it. So I just had to make a comment. And to let you know – those three little words are exactly what you think they are. Things are happening…

Author's Note: Sorry this one took so long, but I had to get over Christmas and throwing my back out. Still I had a good Christmas and I hope everyone else did to. I also hope everyone is still reading this story.

2015 Author's Note: Just in case you went looking for them in the last chapter and to explain my reply to Cassandra Jean above, there was mention of 'Farscape' references in the original chapter 6. When the story was made into an ebook, these references were taken out and I haven't returned them.

DF

Chapter Seven: Prelude to a Wedding - Part One

General Jack O'Neill stood behind Harriman; there were days when just getting out of bed seemed to be a mistake. Today the mistake had not been listening to his archaeologist; Kayla had known how dangerous this son of Anubis was, and now they were paying for it. Khalek had broken out of confinement; killed two SF's and made his way to the Gate room. His abilities were advancing faster than they could deal with. He'd shut them out of the Gate Room with a mere flick of his wrist. "I need those doors open, Walter!"

"I can't sir!" the Chief told him, but worked at the problem anyway

Major Michaels and Kayla rushed into the control room; both were still geared up, having returned from off-world before Khalek had escaped. Kayla had been the one who had strongly insisted they keep Khalek from returning to the planet, but the warning had come too late.

Harriman lifted his hands from the keyboard as he noticed that the keys were being pressed by an unseen force. The Gate began dialing, its destination P3X-584 – Khalek's planet. The chevrons locked in place, one at a time.

"Halt the dialing program!" Jack ordered.

"I can't, sir. I've removed the keyboard jack, and it's still dialing." Walter showed the General the serial-port plug, and yet the keys kept moving, as did the rings of the Stargate, as seen on the video monitors.

Ryan quickly took a seat next to the Chief. They needed the blast doors open, not just to see what was happening, but the Colonel would be trying to get in. They'd split up and headed in different directions, both intending to find a way into the Gate Room.

The Stargate activated, just as the blast shield to the control room lifted. Khalek looked up to the control room; there was no remorse in his eyes. If anything there was pleasure, he had enjoyed killing, just as he said he would. His attention fell on one person within the control room. "You should have killed me when you had the chance," he told Kayla.

Jack looked away from Khalek to the young woman standing beside him. She grimaced.

Turning, Kahlek walked up the ramp and into the wormhole. It deactivated moments later.

Ryan was frantically working on the computer system, as they didn't have much time, and they all knew it. "He's locked us out of the system," he reported as he worked.

Walter added, "Iris control is still down. Attempting to dial out…" The standard procedure in this situation was to dial the Alpha Site to prevent incoming wormholes. The Stargate started spinning, but not under Walter's control, and the Chief announced. "Incoming wormhole."

"Cutting auxiliary power to the blast doors," the Major yelled to everyone, then announced over the PA system, "Colonel Mitchell. The electronic locks are down. You should be able to pry the doors open manually." He didn't expect a reply, but he had a feeling the Colonel was saying something sarcastic.

Kayla didn't wait, she dashed out of the control room before Jack or anyone else could stop her. The defense troops were forcing the right-side blast door to the Gate Room open, just as she knew Mitchell was doing on the other side. Taking her pistol from its holster, Kayla flicked off the safety, and dove in as the troops got the door ajar enough for her to squeeze through. She saw Mitchell was also through, and had fired on Khalek, who had returned through the Stargate with his power enhancing devices and two personal Jaffa guards. She also noticed in the same fraction of a second that Khalek was blocking the bullets from the SGC troops on the other side of the room, but her arrival had gone unnoticed. She fired every round in the clip, taking advantage of the distraction provided by Mitchell, and managed to get past the force shield Khalek was using. He looked down at his chest, blood poured from two wounds. Wounds caused by Kayla. The remaining SGC troops opened fire on the two Jaffa guards as the Stargate shut down.

Cameron realized she was there. "Nice shot," he remarked.

She stared at him blankly for a moment, she didn't think, she didn't feel, she buried her emotions deep down, guarding them from him and from Khalek.

Khalek recovered from his shock, lifting his hands to shield himself again, smiling as he did so. But to no avail; the troops opened fire, reacting to his aggressive movement. He was forced back by the momentum, unable to stop the bullets as they pursued him up the ramp, not relenting until he hit the floor, dead.

Walking up to the end of the ramp, they looked down at the body, then at each other. Cam noticed the expression on Kayla's face, "You did what you had to, Indiana," Cameron told her as he returned his weapon to its holster.

"Yeah," she agreed dryly. She reloaded and then holstered her pistol as she walked down the ramp with him, leaving the Gate Room.

Up in the Control room, Ryan sighed, and then noticed that the General was looking at him for answers. "I rigged the call forwarding device on 584 to dial back here."

"And you didn't tell me?"

"We were going to, sir, but we didn't get a chance," he explained. "It's a good thing too, or he would have heard us."

Jack sighed, and ran a hand through his hair. "You're getting like Carter, Michaels."

"Thank you, sir," the Major grinned, "Closing the iris now."

Shaking his head, Jack spoke into the microphone, "Evacuate the Gate Room. Forensics team to level 28, enemy device - hazard procedures. Base is secured."

DF

By morning, the base was back to normal, or as normal as it gets for the SGC.

Kayla walked down the corridor on level 28 to the elevator, ran her card through the reader, and tucking it back into the shirt pocket of her blue BDUs.

"Doctor Jackson!"

She turned, seeing it was Richard Woolsey, the IOA representative. He wasn't a bad guy; he just drove her to distraction at times. She rolled her eyes and blew out a breath, turning back to face the elevator, hoping he'd go away.

He pretended not to notice her eye movement, and didn't go away. "I just wanted you to know… The men who died? I'm going to see to it personally that their families are well taken care of."

They had lost men because of stupidity. Kayla knew it, and it seemed he did too. She turned. "Look," she shoved her hands into her pants pockets. "For what it's worth, I understand how you felt and why you took the position you did."

"It almost sounds like you might find it in yourself to forgive me."

"No," she frowned, pausing. "That doesn't mean we don't all want what you're looking for. And the answers are still out there."

"But you were right about the risks, and I was clearly wrong," he pointed out.

She smiled remorsefully, the elevator doors opened and she walked in, turning to face him. "Believe me, I wish I'd been wrong," she said solemnly.

Woolsey nodded as the elevator doors closed. "Me too," he said regretfully.

Kayla headed to the surface, above the main entrance, exiting on the forest side, away from prying eyes. She strolled over to her favorite spot. Actually, it was her dad's, but he'd said to use it. She sat under the large tree and hugged her legs to her chest. She glanced at her watch before closing her eyes, resting her head against her knees.

After an hour, she heard the crunch of footsteps and looked up, opening her eyes, removing her sun-glasses, seeing the General. "Hey, Jack." He sat beside her she forced a smile. "How did you find me?"

He pulled the Ancient life-detector from his pocket and showed her. "Carter's newest model, smaller and more portable, slips into your pocket easily."

She chuckled a little and looked, running her fingers over the device. "Sam's enjoying herself at Atlantis."

"Yeah," he took it back and shoved it into his pocket. "But you know Carter, give her a doohickey to play with and she's happy." He gave her a moment. "So," he glanced around, it was a nice day. "Whatcha doin'?"

"Thinking."

"Now that's dangerous." He saw her smile, giving her a nudge. "Come on kiddo, talk to me."

She hugged her legs more tightly. "He said I wanted to kill him. He told me that before it was all over, one of us would feel the pleasure of killing."

"Did you?"

"I felt relief, I won't lie to you Uncle Jack, I wanted him dead," she admitted.

Jack slipped his arm around her shoulders. "You did what you had to and you saved lives. You've done it before."

"I know, but this time it felt different, I wanted it. I wanted him to die," her voice cracked and she didn't hold back the tears that threatened to fall. "I wanted to be the one who killed him. I hated him, Jack. I hated him because of who he was. His father hurt mine, and I wanted to hurt him in return."

"Honey, I don't know how to help you," Jack said gently. "You need to talk to Margo, but know this. Your wanting to kill someone, and his taking pleasure in doing it, are two different things."

"I know. I just... I just needed to say it."

They both heard the crunching of boots and turned to see Mitchell approaching. Jack stood and helped Kayla to her feet as they waited together for the Colonel to reach them.

Cameron nodded to the General. "Sir."

"Colonel," Jack shoved his hands into his pants pockets. "Make sure Kayla see's Dr. O'Hara."

"I will, sir."

He started to walk away from them but stopped, and saw that Mitchell had stepped closer to his archaeologist. "A piece of advice," he offered, seeing he had their attention. "Keep it off base, don't take it off-world and I'll turn a blind eye to what's going on between you two." He saw their expressions change. They hadn't been expecting his remark, the Colonel in particular. "The regs are wrong, Mitchell, especially at the SGC, and I'm doing all I can to change them."

Cameron could see the General was serious, and that he understood. "Thank you, sir."

Jack nodded, and hurried away to give them some privacy.

Cameron drew Kayla into his arms, feeling hers snake around him. He nuzzled the top of her head. "We're going to be all right, Kayla."

She looked up, "Promise?"

"I promise," he cupped her face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears on her cheeks. He wanted to tell her he loved her, but they were still technically on base. Therefore, he smiled warmly, seeing she understood. "Come on, Indiana."

She did know, because she loved him. "Are you going to come with me to see Dr. O'Hara and hold my hand?" She teased as they headed back, lightening the mood.

Cameron chuckled. "I don't think the doc would like that."

"No?"

"Nope, neither would the General."

"Uncle Jack is a big teddy bear," she mused lightly.

"Yeah, well, that big teddy bear wasn't real cute and cuddly when he found out Cassie Frasier had moved in with his son," Cameron reminded her. Teal'c had told him some time ago about Cassandra Frasier, and about the death of her mother. Jon O'Neill was still a mystery, one he didn't mind because he liked the guy. "He went after his own son with a Zat."

"Cassie is like a daughter to Jack. He and Sam became her guardians after her mother was killed off-world," Kayla said smiling warmly. "I guess he still sees her as the little girl they found on P8X-987."

"How do you do that?" He asked her, gaping. "I can barely remember the designation of the planet we went to last week, let alone a planet we've never visited."

"Photographic memory," she supplied and patted his arm, continuing towards the entrance. "And we went to P9G-5657 last week."

"We did?"

"Yes."

Shaking his head, Cameron ran to catch with her and they walked in together, nodding to the duty Marine as they went in, heading for the elevator. "So, are we still on to go jogging?"

"Yes," Kayla agreed, inquiring out of concern. "Are you up to it? You're the one who spent last night in the infirmary with a concussion?" She pointed out.

"I'm good."

She rolled her eyes. "Pass out and I'll leave you where you drop."

"Oh, you're all heart, Jackson," he drawled, his accent suddenly very heavy.

"I know," she jeered.

They took the elevator to 11, bantering all the way, changing elevators they continue down into the mountain. Kayla's beeper went off as they reached 21. She checked the message. "The General wants us."

"Now?"

"Now," she redirected the elevator and put away her beeper.

"Call the Doc and made an appointment to see her when we're finished," Cameron ordered.

"I will." Kayla assured calmly.

"And keep it, Indiana."

"I will," she promised, seeing the yeah right look he gave her. "I will."

The elevator stopped on 28 and they walked out, heading down the corridor.

"Hey, did you and Jon ever figure out if that Atum guy was Tok'ra or not?" Cameron asked her, changing the subject.

"We did. According to the data the Tok'ra provided us, he was," Kayla revealed. "They lost contact with him though."

"So he could be still out there somewhere?"

"Possibly."

Michaels and Teal'c were already seated at the briefing room table with General O'Neill when they arrived.

"About time," Jack playfully grumbled.

Kayla rolled her eyes and took a seat, Mitchell sat next to her, smiling, as was the rest of his team.

"Now that everyone is here," Jack began with a droll tone just to tease them. "I've been on the phone to the Vice President, who has accepted the invitation to Carter's and Daniel's wedding. Vice President Hammond will arrive Friday – 1300. We leave for Atlantis at 1400 with supplies for both the wedding and the bachelor party. Said bachelor party is being put together by Colonel Sheppard and myself."

Kayla heard the smugness in his voice. "What are you planning, Jack?"

"Nothing," he insisted, sounding a little put out. "The bride has put a warning out as to what will happen to anyone who does anything to Daniel."

"I believe Colonel Carter threatened you, O'Neill, with bodily harm." Teal'c clarified.

He swallowed hard. "Thank you, Teal'c." He paused, frowning before continuing. "Anyway, to make sure nothing happens to Daniel, Carter insists both Kayla and Teyla attend the bachelor party."

"Jeez, it's not like we're going to be able to find strippers in the Pegasus Galaxy," Cameron gripped and then looked quickly to his CO. "You haven't, have you, sir?"

"No, I haven't." Jack said frowning again.

"You didn't order John to, did you?" Kayla queried.

"No."

She didn't believe him. "Jack?"

"I didn't."

"That's not reassuring."

"Well, it'll have to do," he remarked and continued. "Sunday morning, Carter and Daniel will be making a quick trip back here to the registry office, so their marriage will be legal. Jacob will be here by then and returning with them. The Athosian's have asked to perform the wedding ceremony, so the quick trip back here is necessary. Vice President Hammond and I will be returning Sunday night, but SG-1 doesn't have to be back until 1300 Monday."

"We'll do our best to be prompt, sir." Cameron told him grinning.

"That'll be the day, Colonel." Jack remarked. "It's also been requested that the four of you refrain from being captured, tortured, shot, zatted or anything else that would put you all in the infirmary before the Wedding."

"We don't do it on purpose, Jack." Kayla said a little miffed.

"No, they don't do it on purpose," he declared, gesturing to the male members of the team. "You, on the other hand, are like your father, you attract danger like a magnet." Jack saw her sit back, folding her arms against her chest in a self-hug. "You know I'm right, Indiana."

"I do not attract danger like a magnet," she said, becoming prissy.

"You do, Jackson," Cameron said calmly. "You practically have a neon sign go off over your head. Every male we meet when we go off world falls in love with you in seconds after we met them, even the occasional woman. Not to mention you snake bait any Goa'uld we come across."

"I do not." She contradicted. "And it wasn't my fault the Crooisans were open to same sex relationships. You got hit on too, so did Ryan and Teal'c."

"I did not."

"You did too." She threw back.

"Did not."

"Did too."

"Not."

"Colonel. Doctor!" Jack said with a strong command voice. Groaning, and for a moment he had déjà vu, flashing back to when he and Daniel did the same thing. Now he knew how Hammond felt. He sighed. "Your mission tomorrow is still on, just be careful."

"Yes, sir," both Mitchell and Michaels said together.

An "Indeed" came from Teal'c.

Jack looked to the archaeologist. "Indiana?"

"Fine," she hissed.

"All right, get out of here," he said wearily and stood, heading for his office. Once inside, he watched through the Star Map as Kayla stood, glaring at Mitchell and walked away, the Colonel threw his arms up in frustration and stalked after her. Michaels and Teal'c chuckled and headed off in the opposite direction. Finding it amusing himself, Jack sat at his desk. No one could accuse Mitchell of crossing the line while on base, the poor man was still learning how to deal with a prissy Dr. Jackson - the hard way.

When the phone rang, during his attack on a mountain of paperwork, he answered it in relief. "O'Neill."

"How did they take the news, Jack?" The Vice President asked over the phone line.

He sat back in his chair. "Fine, sir, they're looking forward to you joining us."

George Hammond's voice chuckled over the line. "Well, I'm sorry we had to cut our conversation short."

"So am I, sir," Jack told him; he really wanted to discuss the regulations before the man's arrival on Friday; getting an idea. "Sir, how would you like a home cooked meal here in Colorado Springs, I can have you back in Washington before midnight."

There was chuckling again. "I'd like that a lot, Jack, are you sure Margo wouldn't mind?"

"Yes sir, and I'm sure Colonel Emerson won't either."

"All right, Jack, I'd be happy to accept."

"I'll have Emerson beam you here at 1700, sir," Jack told him. "Secret Service agents are optional."

George laughed quietly. "Jack, if no one knows I'm there, then, I think I'm pretty safe."

"Yes, sir, you are."

"I'll see you at 1700, Jack."

"Goodbye sir," he hung up and then called Reynolds into his office, putting together a security detail for the unofficial visit to be stationed discretely around his house and neighborhood, as well as contacting Emerson and making the arrangements. He also called Margo, letting her know. She grumbled but said she'd leave early to get things ready. The President also called to make sure the proper arrangements were made. Jack assured him they had, and a lock would be kept at all times on the Vice President by the Odyssey. President Hayes was satisfied and gave his blessing to the venture, after he grumbled about being the last to know.

DF

By 1700, everything was ready, and Vice President Hammond was beamed into the briefing room of the SGC, dressed casually, without his secret service agents.

Jack smiled. "Welcome back, sir."

"Thank you, Jack," he shook the man's hand and they left together.

Jack had already changed, and was ready to leave for the night. "Drew is looking forward to meeting you, sir."

George smiled. "Jack, we've known each other for nine, nearly ten years. We've been through a lot; tears, laughter, and death. I think you can call me George."

"I'll try, sir," he said, and saw the amused look, "George."

"That's better," the Vice President said, finding it amusing. "So how is the SGC these days?"

"The same as it was when you ran her, sir. Maybe not as squeaky, but I try."

"Does the commissary still have pie?"

"Yes, sir, and cake."

"You have to have cake, Jack."

"I know," he agreed, then frowned. "Margo insists I cut back though, she's limiting my cake intake and has the commissary on full warning. I think Dr. Lam is behind it too."

George laughed. "You'll survive, Jack."

He sighed. "But it's cake, George," he said solemnly.

The Vice President laughed and patted him on the back in support.

They left the base, taking Jack's truck, their shadow staying with them, pulling up outside the General's house when they arrived. SG-3, 5 and 7 were providing security, discretely.

Margo and Drew were introduced to the Vice President, who insisted the doctor call him by his first name and the little boy was fine to call him Grandpa George. They talked casually through dinner and after; Drew reluctantly went to bed when his mother told him it was time. He gave both Jack and George a hug and hurried away with his mother.

Jack got himself and the Vise President a beer and they went out and sat on the deck, the moon bright enough to light it nicely.

George took a swallow of beer. "So," he began, "are you going to tell me what you really wanted to talk to me about?"

Jack nodded. "I want to approach the President about changing the regulations when it comes to relationships within the SGC," he said a little tensely. "We both know how things were messed up when it came to Carter, Daniel and me. I'm just happy Daniel and Carter managed to work things out."

The elder man read between the lines. "This has to do with more than just Dr. Jackson and Colonel Carter."

Swallowing hard, Jack agreed. "It does."

"Mitchell and Kayla," he saw Jack nod. "You've been turning a blind eye to their relationship," Jack nodded again, so George asked. "How long has it been going on?"

"Not long, they keep it off base."

"What about off-world?" The former base commander asked.

"It's the same. Mitchell is protective of her, but he never crosses the line and neither does she."

"Are you sure?"

"Sir, they have Teal'c on the team, and we both know how precise he is with his reports."

Sighing, George sat back and took another drink of his beer. "It won't be easy, Jack."

"I know, and I agree that if a couple can't keep things together, then a transfer can be put into action," Jack stated. "But it's different with them; right from the start there was a connection." He sat forward, rubbing his thumb over the lip of the beer bottle. "Mitchell can read her better than anyone else on base, myself included, and maybe Jon, but there's good reasons for that. George, I've seen them fight. They've had screaming matches in her office that would have had Daniel and me both running for cover. In addition, I've seen Mitchell reach the point of wanting to strangle her; but he knows when she's right, she's right. No matter how big of a pain in the ass she's been. And…" he let his voice fade, the conviction was clear. "And I've seen her come through the Stargate in so much pain that she's barely walking, and I don't mean physical pain. But he's been at her side, knowing she will break, and he will be there to catch her. But never have they crossed the line while they've been on base, not once."

The former General, and now Vice President, thought through what he'd been told. "You're telling the wrong person, Jack, this is what you need to tell the President." He saw the man agree. "He hasn't met them both, has he?"

"No, not yet."

"Then you might want to introduce the two of them to him, let him see for himself who they are. See who SG-1 is," George suggested. "What about General Landry, have you approached him about this?"

"Hank agrees with me; he thinks the regulations within the SGC need to be reviewed."

"Then you've got an ally, use it."

Jack nodded again, feeling a little relieved. He missed having Hammond around. "Thank you, sir."

"I just sat here and listened, Jack."

"You did more than that, George," he admitted, seeing the other man smile.

Margo came out onto the deck, joining them. She sat on her fiancée's lap when he sat back. "Are we finished with the secret talk?" She asked with a smile.

"We are," Jack told her. "Drew asleep?"

"He is, he's also a little disappointed he can't tell everyone he had the Vice President over for dinner," she mused.

George smiled lightly at that. "My granddaughters don't understand why I can't come and play as often."

"Any time you want to visit, just let me know, sir. I'm sure we can arrange something." Jack offered. "We usually have a ship in orbit or an F-302 that could give you a lift."

The Vice President found that amusing. "I'll try and remember that," he said smiling. "So, Jack, when are you going to make an honest woman out of Margo?"

"We're making arrangements," he declared.

Margo playfully slapped his chest. "He's wants to run down to the registry office and then turn up at work and say surprise," she giggled.

"Hey, it would work."

"And deprive us of a wedding, I think not," George contradicted.

Jack sighed. "Well, I suppose we could arrange something."

Margo groaned, "You're impossible."

"I know," he smirked and gave her a kiss. "You love me anyway."

"Hopelessly," she told him and got another kiss.

After their beers were finished, they went back inside. George had enjoyed himself, thanking them both.

"Any time, sir," Jack told him.

"I'll hold you to that," he remarked.

Taking the radio earpiece from his pocket, Jack put it on and tapped it. "Odyssey, this is O'Neill, standby to beam Eagle two back to Washington."

"Standing by, sir."

George gave Margo a hug. "Look after this man," he jabbed a thumb at Jack.

"I will," she assured. "And I'll see you on Friday."

"You certainly will," he turned to the General. "Thank you for dinner, Jack."

"Any time, George," he shook the Vice President's hand and then contacted the Odyssey again. "Odyssey, this is O'Neill, Eagle two is ready to leave."

"Standby sir." The transporter took hold of the Vice President and the man disappeared in a flash of blue light. Then a moment later, the Odyssey reported. "Sir, Eagle two is safely at home."

"Thank you, Odyssey. O'Neill out," he said and then tapped the earpiece again. "Reynolds, this is O'Neill."

"Go ahead, sir."

"Eagle two is home, thanks for the assist, Colonel, send the boys home."

"Yes, sir. Good night, sir."

"Good night, Colonel." He tapped the radio off, threw it on the coffee table and drew Margo into his arms. "Alone at last."

"Mmm, what shall we do," she mused.

"Oh, I'll think of something," Jack promised. He quickly locked the doors and then took her hand, turning out the lights on the way to their bedroom.

DF

On Friday, General Jack O'Neill stood in the briefing room, looking out at the Stargate. Behind him were the Vice President, Dr. O'Hara, Jon O'Neill, Cassie Frasier (Thor had come through with removing the device in her chest, so she could go through the Stargate) and Colonel Reynolds. Everyone but Reynolds would be going through the Stargate to attend the wedding at Atlantis.

Jack looked at his watch. They were late, they being SG-1. His kids were late.

"Uncle Jack," Cassie came to stand beside him. She was no longer the little girl they had rescued; she was now a young woman - twenty, nearly twenty-one.

He turned, giving her a halfhearted smile. She was studying genetic sciences at college and was almost finished her PhD in the subject. He was proud of her.

"They'll be alright," she assured him.

"I hope so, sweetheart."

"Hey, this is SG-1, remember, it's what they do," she said smiling, trying to cheer him up.

He chuckled. "Yeah, I remember. Have the scars to prove it."

She giggled lightly. "I know, mom told me."

"Pain," he jeered and saw her gaze go from him to Jon. He was still getting used to the fact she was shacking up with his clone - no, not clone, his son. Even that was hard to deal with, but as she'd told him, Jon O'Neill wasn't him; he was an individual who had grown past who he'd been to become who he was. And she loved him. Hearing that had been hard. She was older than him by about two years, but Jon had experiences she didn't, not that it seemed to bother either of them.

The Stargate activating jarred Jack out of his day dreaming. He took off down the stairs to the control room, getting there quickly. "Walter?"

The Stargate activated, the iris still closed. Harriman waited for the IDC to be received, reporting, "It's SG-1 sir, audio only," he put it on the speakers.

"Stargate Command, this is Mitchell!" The Colonel was shouting over the noise that sounded like bomb blasts; there was a pause and they heard screaming as well as a child's panicked cries. "This planet is going to hell." A loud boom drowned out anything else the Colonel had to say, and they heard what sounded like impacts. "Shit!" The Colonel's voice came over again, his radio keyed open. "Jackson?"

Kayla's voice came over the speakers, a slight waver to it, "She's gone. We can't wait, I've got to do it now!"

"Damn, General we're going to need a medical team standing by!"

Jack tapped the Chief on the shoulder and he carried out the order. "Mitchell, what the hell is going on?" He asked but didn't get an answer, hearing only drowned-out voices as the noise became louder.

The Vice President arrived in the control room, standing next to the General. "Jack?"

"I don't know, sir," he said worriedly. "They reported in from P6G-55562 last night and said everything was fine. Now it's gone to hell, it sounds like there are explosions all around them."

Below in the Gate Room the defense troops were standing by, as was the medical team, the seconds ticked by.

"Stargate Command, we're coming through," Mitchell suddenly and quickly yelled over the speakers, jarring everyone back to reality. "Close the iris as soon as we're through!"

"On it, sir," Walter Harriman reported, "Opening the iris Colonel Mitchell… proceed!"

Jack and the Vice President hurried down to the Gate Room. SG-1 came through as they arrived. Teal'c was carrying the archaeologist's P-90 and Michaels had her vest. Mitchell was carrying a little boy about four or five, who clung to the Colonel for dear life. Kayla had her fatigue shirt off, and from the cries he could hear that she was carrying a newborn baby wrapped in it; blood was splattered over her forearms and face. She rushed down the ramp to Dr. Lam and the medical team, laying the shirt wrapped baby on the gurney.

"Her mother died before she was delivered, I cut her from the womb, and I think I nicked her with the knife when I cut the umbilical cord, the ground was shaking so much," she reported, breathing heavily.

"You did fine, Kayla," Carolyn assured her as she quickly examined the baby for wounds, and they rushed the baby out.

A nurse wrapped a blanket around Kayla's shoulders as she started shivering, coming down from the adrenalin rush. "Are you alright, Dr. Jackson?"

She nodded, Cameron passed the little boy to her, who wrapped his arms around her and held on tight. The blanket was then tucked around the both of them.

Their weapons were taken from them by SF's, who moved quickly out of the way.

"Colonel?" Jack finally got to them.

"A Volcano erupted during the night, sir," Cameron reported. He stuck close to his archaeologist. "It went from bad to worse in a matter of hours. Ezra, the baby's mother, and Ari were left behind."

"Ezra, was the village leader's mistress, when he found out she was pregnant, he shunned her." Ryan said bitterly. "The man was a pig, he didn't care what happened to her."

"Major," Jack warned.

"Sir, the man left her behind," Ryan explained. "He left her and Ari; he didn't care about either of them."

"Ari is now an orphan," Kayla revealed, her eyes gave away everything she was feeling, though her voice didn't.

Jack watched as the little boy nuzzled tiredly against her shoulder. He was as dirty as they were; his light blond hair was covered with dirt and ash. There was fear in his grey-blue eyes, as well as trust. "All right, get to the infirmary, get yourselves and this little guy checked out. I'll get a message to Atlantis and tell them we'll be a little late. As soon as you're finished in the infirmary, we'll debrief."

"Yes, sir," Cameron acknowledged, and ushered his team out of the Gate Room, the little boy remaining in Kayla's arms, the nurse following.

Jack sighed and turned to the Vice President. "Sir…"

"Jack," George interrupted, "I'll head to the infirmary, go and contact Atlantis and tell them we'll be late." He walked away before the man could argue with him.

Jack stood there with his mouth open, wondering when he'd lost control of the situation. Shutting his mouth, he headed up to the control room as he yelled, "Walter, dial up Atlantis!" He then paced the room, waiting. The Stargate activated as Walter talked into the microphone, "Atlantis control, this is Stargate Command."

"Stargate Command, this is Atlantis." Jack turned to the monitor above them as it flickered, and a two-way connection was made, showing Elizabeth Weir. "General, we've been expecting you."

"We're going to be a little late, Elizabeth. SG-1 ran into a few problems. As soon as they're ready, we'll be coming through. Tell Sheppard not to start without us."

She smiled, showed concern. "Is everything all right, General?"

"I hope so, doctor," he glanced at his watch. "We'll be there by 1700."

"We'll be waiting, Atlantis out."

The connection was broken as the Stargate closed down. Jack had a gut feeling they were going to be getting visitors very soon. "Hold down the fort, Walter, I have a few calls to make."

"Yes, sir," the Chief acknowledged; he'd been around the General long enough to know what he meant.

Jack headed up to his office, making the calls he needed to make. When he was finished he headed to the infirmary, finding three of his flagship team, showered and seated on beds in scrubs. The little boy had been given a quick bath and was dressed in jeans and a shirt that hung on him a little, and sandals on his feet. Jack guessed one of the nurses had found clothes for Ari, probably from the spare clothes married personnel kept on base. Getting clothes for a little boy wouldn't be hard when it came to his people. The little boy was sitting on Mitchell's lap, his thumb in his mouth, the Colonel looked quite comfortable, but then Mitchell had a younger brother, many times over.

Cameron saw him. "General."

"Colonel, where's Kayla?"

"With Doctor Lam, sir," he replied as he gently rubbed the little boys back.

"Kayla Jackson is most concerned for the newborn." Teal'c declared. "It was her decision to cut the infant from the mother."

"Wait a minute, Kayla made the decision?"

"And did the procedure," the Jaffa stated.

"Ezra was bleeding heavily, sir, and then died." Ryan reported. "It's amazing the baby even survived, Kayla was determined though that she would."

Jack run his hand through his hair, and then saw the Vice President come into the ward with Kayla, who was also in scrubs, cradling a swaddled infant.

George guided the young archaeologist over to them; the young woman was quiet, which usually wasn't a good sign, but after what she'd been through, Jack had expected it.

Carolyn Lam came into the ward too, joining them. "General."

"How are the munchkins, doc?" Jack asked her.

"Aside from a few minor cuts and bruises, Ari is a healthy young boy of four," she said and smiled as Kayla put the infant she'd been carrying into Teal'c arms and sat beside him, the Jaffa looked quite at ease with the small newborn. "The infant is also healthy; her genetic structure is very similar to our own. The nick received when Dr. Jackson cut the umbilical cord was minor and didn't need stitching. I've given her the necessary vitamin shots and I've sent two of my nurses to pick up formula and necessities, we only had the basics on hand for both of them." She paused for a moment. "I take it the Air Force will make arrangements for families for both children?"

Jack nodded. "I don't think there'll be too many problems with that, doc."

"Jack arranged for the SGC personnel to receive first consideration in circumstances like this," the Vice President revealed. "There is a waiting list of families willing to take in children."

Ari didn't understand everything that was being said, he understood enough though, having received the language download from the Stargate. He looked to Kayla. "'tay with you and Kam."

She hopped off the bed and went over to him, feeling an ache in her heart, one of longing for a family she hadn't felt since joining the SGC. "I wish you could, honey, but it's not possible," she sat up beside them.

"Why?" he wanted to know.

"Well," she swallowed hard. "You need a family, a mom, and a dad."

"You be mom and Cam be dad," the little boy said sternly, and pointed to the baby in Teal'c's arm. "Aeron be sister."

Jack was amused, "Aeron?"

"Ari named her, General," Carolyn revealed, grinning as both the Colonel and the archaeologist squirmed.

"Well, I guess her name is Aeron then," he smirked happily.

Margo came in with Cassie; the younger woman had a report in her hand. "We found something interesting," she reported.

"We're all ears," Jack remarked with a touch of sarcasm.

Cassie rolled her eyes at him, and continued, "Both Ari and baby Aeron have the full ATA gene."

"Did everyone know about the kid naming this baby except me," the General grumbled.

Margo patted his arm lightly. "You'll catch up, Jack, just go with it," she advised.

He sighed. "All right, anything else?" Before anyone could say anything, the alarms went off, signaling an incoming wormhole. "I bet that's Daniel."

Carolyn went over to the phone on the wall and called the control room, after a few minutes she returned, slightly amused. "Dr. Jackson – Senior, and Colonel Carter have arrived and are on their way here."

"I knew it," he glanced to Kayla. "Kiddo, your father is becoming a mother hen."

"More than you, Jack?"

"Oh very funny."

A nurse came out with a small bottle of formula, giving it to Carolyn along with a cloth nappy. "Let's see if this little one will take in some nourishment," the doctor announced.

Teal'c stood and put the infant into Kayla's arms, who was a little stunned. "Teal'c, I don't know anything about babies," she said a little flustered. "Well, other than how to deliver one."

"Let me guess, you had to serve as a midwife in Egypt?" Jack asked her as the Jaffa smirked and returned to sit down.

"Yeah?" She looked curiously at him.

Jack took the bottle and cloth. "Well it's about time we expanded your knowledge, Indiana." He went over to her; draping the cloth over her shoulder, he put the bottle in her hand and positioned the baby in her arms before showing her what to do. Aeron hesitated, pouting at the plastic nipple before taking it, and suckling contently from the bottle. "There you go, no problems."

Margo was impressed. "You know General, you constantly surprise me."

"Yeah, well, don't spread it around, I have a reputation to protect," he remarked.

"You're secret is safe with us, sir, and the entire base, and anyone reading the mission reports." Ryan assured him.

"Thank you, Major," he remarked with a smile, walking over to his fiancée.

Daniel and Sam hurried into the room along with Jon; the senior Jackson looking very concerned. "Jack, what's going on?"

"Oh, nothing much," his friend remarked casually. "We were just discussing parenting." He gave a smile. "Feel like being a grandpa?"

"Jack," Daniel hissed.

Sam gripped her fiancé's arm, seeing the children. "Daniel."

He looked from his friend to his daughter, Mitchell was leaning closer to her, a little boy on his lap. He tore his gaze away. "Jack?"

Jack chuckled. "Relax Danny-boy; pulling your leg never gets old. Anyway, SG-1 saved Ari and Aeron, and in fact, your daughter delivered Aeron. Seems she learnt about delivering babies in Egypt too." He saw his friend frown; he missed this.

Kayla looked up from watching the baby; the ache was still there, so was the wanting, and hurt. "You know, Jack, dad and Sam would make good parents for Aeron and Ari," she said, hiding her confusion at what she was feeling.

Cameron felt the little boy wiggle in his arms to get a good look at the new arrivals. He knew more than the others what his archaeologist was feeling. And he knew how it hurt her, doing the right thing, because he knew her. "Yeah Sam, you and Daniel would make great parents."

"Us?" she squeaked before clearing her throat.

"Both Aeron and Ari have the full ATA gene," Cassie added. "Their ancestors must have been Ancients who settled the planet, so what better place for them to grow up than in the city of the Ancients."

"It's a good idea," George Hammond agreed. "I'm sure the President would agree."

Sam went over to Kayla, getting a better look at the baby. Feeling a tug on her sleeve, she found the little boy was reaching out to her. She picked him up, lifting him from the Colonel's lap into her arms; his little arms and legs going around her. "Hi, I'm Sam," she introduced herself. "You must be Ari." He nodded, his thumb once more in his mouth. She smiled warmly.

After getting a nudge from Jack, Daniel went over to them.

"This is Kayla's dad, Ari," Cameron introduced them.

"'Ayla's," he said without removing his thumb.

"That's right," he gave him a grin. "He's a nice guy," he told him, and then reached out to Kayla, gently rubbing her back. He knew how hard this was for her, because deep down, he had the same ache in his heart. It had been there from the moment she'd clutched the newborn to her chest. "We need to get dressed and debrief, Jackson," he said as calmly as he could, keeping the hurt out of his voice. "So why don't you let your dad here take over."

She looked down at the innocent little baby in her arms. Saying out loud that her dad and Sam would make good parents had hurt more than she thought it would, but it had been the right thing. "Sure." She managed to get off the bed and put the infant into her father's arms, without the bottle being disturbed too much, letting him take it; draping the cloth over his shoulder. "We'll see you later, Dad, Sam." Forcing a smile, she left with the rest of them, only Carolyn remained, she'd seen the anguish in the archaeologist eyes, and the Colonel's.

Daniel frowned slightly, feeling a little overwhelmed, then looked at the infant in his arms, his frown melting away. She had tuffs of blondish brown hair on her head and dark blue eyes. She was a little pinkish and wrinkly, like any newborn; well, from what he remembered of the ones he'd seen. It made him wonder what Kayla had looked like as a newborn.

Carolyn came up beside him. "Why don't you sit down, Daniel," she suggested and guided him over to a chair, getting him settled. "There you go." She ran her fingers gently over the infants head. "You know, she's a cute little thing."

He nodded, suddenly understanding the ache in his heart. "I missed this with Kayla," he whispered almost dazed. "I never got to be there."

Sam laid Ari on the bed, gentle rubbing his back; he was almost asleep. "We could do it, Daniel," she said softly. "Adopt them."

He looked up, seeing she meant every word. "Are you sure?"

"I'm sure," Sam agreed, seeing him holding the infant. It made her heart swell with love, he could give so much, and that made her love him even more.

Carolyn smiled. "I'll let the General know," she told them and hurried away.

DF

SG-1 sat around the briefing room table; all were in green BDUs, the General was at the head of the table. Behind him, in his office, the Vice President was on the phone.

Cameron was leaning back in his chair. "Everything was fine, sir," he recalled from their mission. "After we gated to P6G-55562, we were met by the village leader, Daken. He welcomed us and showed us around his village; he said they'd never had anyone come through the ring, as they called it."

"He was hiding something even then," Kayla added.

Ryan nodded. "I noticed the volcano in the distance was smoking, and when I asked about it, Daken dismissed it, saying it had being doing that for days and there was nothing to worry about."

"He was most adamant," Teal'c agreed.

"Anyway, we took a look around," Cameron continued. "Michaels took samples, Jackson talked to the village historian and some of the other villagers, while Teal'c and I snooped."

"The village appeared to be partly deserted," Teal'c declared. "When questioned about this, Daken dismissed it, saying his people were scared of newcomers and were remaining in their homes."

"His story would have held up, but when the eruptions and earthquakes started, Daken activated the Stargate, like it was no mystery after all, and started ushering his people through," Ryan stated. "My guess is that they do this on a regular basis when the volcano goes active, taking up residence at an alternate world, like an Alpha-Site. They obviously wanted to protect the location of the world from us. There were only about thirty or so villagers remaining, and by the way they were hurrying to the Stargate, they knew the volcano was going to go critical. They didn't even wait to check to see if anyone was left behind, they just left."

"So how did you find the baby's birth mother and the boy?"

"Jackson heard crying, General, so I made the decision to take a quick look around," Cameron explained. "We found Ezra and Ari in one of the collapsed houses."

"Ezra was already in labor and she was bleeding heavily," Kayla reported. "She knew she didn't have a lot of time, she just wanted her baby and Ari to be safe. As the guys dug her out, she told me what Daken had done to her and that Ari was an orphan from birth, that no one else wanted."

Jack felt disgusted. "All right, write up your reports. We leave for Atlantis at 1700." He got nods from them all and two 'yes sirs.'

As SG-1 left the briefing room, Vice President Hammond came in from the General's office. "The President agrees with my assessment, although he is very hesitant to give up a full-blooded genuine Alteran," he reported. "Daniel and Samantha can take their son and daughter home to Atlantis with them, and protect them at all costs."

"Thank you, sir,"

"You're welcome, Jack. Though I would like to be around when they tell Jacob he's now a grandfather," George said with a smile.

"So would I, sir," Jack agreed. "Well let's go tell the kids."

As they left the briefing room, the VP asked, "Where is Drew staying while you and Margo are at Atlantis?"

"Mrs. Wills, Margo's old next door neighbor. She's been like an aunt to Drew, and her son is Drew's friend at school."

They took the elevator to 25, Carolyn Lam had released both Aeron and Ari, and Jack had set the family up in quarters. He knocked on the door and went in, "Hey kids."

"Hey Jack." Daniel welcomed.

Sam was seated on the bed with little Aeron, who was content in her arms. "Excuse me if I don't get up, sir."

He brushed it off, "No problem." He went around and sat next to her. "So how is the youngest Jackson?"

"She's beautiful."

George smiled, "The President has given the go ahead for the adoption, you're clear to take your children home."

"Thank you, sir." Daniel said, the relief clear in his voice.

"You both deserve this, son." He looked down at the tug at his pants, seeing Ari. "Yes, young man."

The little boy pointed at Daniel, the hope obvious in his eyes, as was the longing. "My daddy now?"

He smiled and hunkered down. "Yes."

"T'ank you," he said and hugged George.

George hugged him back. "You're welcome son."

Daniel took the boy, his son, in his arms, letting the Vice President stand. "This means you not only have a baby sister, but you have a big sister, too."

"'Ayla?"

"Kayla," he gently corrected, "Yes."

"And a few Uncles and Aunts, kid," Jack added.

"Cam Uncle?" He asked excitedly, he like the Colonel, he was funny.

Jack smiled, "That's right, Uncle Cameron, and Uncle Ryan, Uncle Teal'c, Uncle Jon, Aunt Margo, Aunt Cassie, as well as Grandpa George there," he saw the little boy grin happily. "And I'm already Uncle Jack to your big sister, so I can be Uncle Jack to you too."

Ari reached out his arms to Jack, who took him. "Hungry, Uncle Jack," he said, his thumb going into his mouth again.

Jack popped the thumb from his mouth, remembering Charlie had been the same way. "Well, we've got time to get you something to eat, if your dad says it's all right."

The little boy twisted in his new Uncle's arms to face the man who was now his father. "Can I daddy?"

Daniel perched on the bed with his fiancée and daughter. "All right, but Uncle Jack has to have you back in plenty of time."

"Scouts honor, Danny-boy," Jack promised, and headed out the door with the little boy in his arms.

George Hammond chuckled. "Sometimes, I think Jack O'Neill will never grow up."

"It makes him who he is, sir," Sam said smiling.

"Samantha," the Vice President took a seat, "I'm going to tell this to the both of you only once. If I'm to be one of your children's grandparents, then I insist the two of you call me George." He stopped the both of them from interrupting. "None of that. With you both at Atlantis, official engagements are virtually nonexistent, so I insist."

"Thank you, George," Daniel said, feeling a little uncomfortable calling the man by his first name.

The Vice President smiled. "It'll get easier son," he promised.

DF

Jon dragged Cassie out of the research lab when it was time to head to the Gate Room, teasing her about being a workaholic in the elevator.

"Watch it, Jon O'Neill," she warned. "I know where you sleep."

"Really," he pinned her up against the elevator wall with his body. "I know where you sleep too," he said nuzzling her ear. He ran his hand down her side, feeling her squirm against him. "And what you like."

Cassie whispered what she liked in his ear, making him squirm uncomfortably, giggling as he groaned against her neck.

"Pain," he growled playfully.

"I learned from the best," she mused, and slipped out from under his arm as the elevator stopped and the doors opened. Jon followed her out; walking next to her. Their bags were on the FRED, which was already in the Gate Room.

SG-3 was waiting in the corridor, near the entrance to the Gate Room, grinning mischievously.

Cassie was amused by it. "Gentlemen," she greeted, in a tone analogous of her mothers, Janet and Sam.

"Ma'am," Reynolds said nodding his head in greeting. "We just wanted to see our boy off."

Jon rolled his eyes. "Jeez guys, thanks so much," he said his voice thick with sarcasm.

"Just remember to behave yourself and play nice with the other kids," Major Montgomery, Reynolds' 2IC jeered.

"Yes, dad," he groaned.

Cassie smothered a giggle. "Don't worry, I'll look after Jon for you," she told the Marines.

"Thank you, ma'am," Reynolds smirked.

Jon groaned and grabbed her arm. "We've got to go," he steered her past his team.

Who turned and chorused together, "Bye Jon."

"Marines," he moaned.

SG-1 was already in the Gate Room, as were Daniel and Sam, the baby in her mother's arms, and Ari in his father's, sound asleep. The nurses had managed to round up more clothing for the baby and the little boy, as well as other supplies. Anything else would be sent through as needed, or be acquired by trade with other worlds. Margo came in with the Vice President and the General, who was grinning.

"Well, now we're all here, we can get this show on the road," Jack remarked, and yelled up at the control room, "Dial her up, Walter!" He then turned to see his 2IC enter the control room, "No wild parties while I'm away Reynolds."

"Not a one, sir," the man promised, grinning. As they waited, Jack issued last minute instructions, trying to remember all the details of what needed doing.

When the Stargate activated, Jack told his 2IC, "Knock on the door, Colonel."

Reynolds had been watching Walter, and reported, "You're clear to go, sir." Reynolds then tossed an active radio through the Stargate, just to make double certain the shield at Atlantis was not active by mistake. As soon as he heard noise from the other end, he waved everyone to proceed. Jack smiled at the extra cautious man, and didn't complain for once.

"All right, boys and girls, let's go," the General ordered.

SG-1 took point, the FRED going up the ramp ahead of them, controlled by Michaels. It vanished through the Stargate, and the instant the control device flashed green, showing a tiny video of Atlantis, they got moving. The Vice President followed Jack and Margo up the ramp, with Margo between the two of them, a little hesitant. Cassie and Jon were next, then Daniel and his family.

DF

The visitors from Earth all arrived seconds after departing the planet, in the Atlantis Gate Room.

Colonel Sheppard and the remainder of his team were waiting with Dr. Weir; the FRED had been quickly moved out of the way to be unpacked by military personnel. SG-1's P-90's were taken from them by a couple of Marines, to be delivered to the armory and cleaned.

Elizabeth smiled warmly at Hammond, "Welcome to Atlantis, Mr. Vice President."

"Thank you, Dr. Weir," he said, smiling right back and shaking her hand.

She quickly introduced John and his team, who also shook the Vice Presidents hand, before excusing themselves to welcome back Daniel and family, as well as SG-1.

Jack cleared his throat, once again feeling awkward around Elizabeth, "Dr. Weir."

"General," she mused.

"This is my fiancée, Doctor Margaret O'Hara. My son, Jon, and his girlfriend, Cassandra Frasier, soon to be Dr. Frasier," he introduced proudly.

"It's a pleasure to meet you all," said Elizabeth, nodding in her unique way, more warmly this time. "And congratulations, General, a fiancée, and a son."

"Yes, well, I aim to please."

Margo smiled, "I've heard a lot about you, Dr. Weir."

Elizabeth didn't know if that was good or bad news, but liked the woman in any case, "Please, Elizabeth," the Atlantis leader insisted, teasing lightly. "And I've hardly heard anything about you, Dr. O'Hara."

"It's Margo," the General's fiancée declared, enjoying making her fiancé squirm. "And we'll have plenty of time to talk tonight."

"I'm looking forward to it," Elizabeth smirked at Jack, and heard the General groan, causing her to grin even more.

Jon patted his dad on the shoulder, "You're in for it now."

"Oh yeah," he agreed.

"Don't think you'll be left out, Junior," Cassie said sweetly. "I'm sure Dr. Weir would like to know all about the General's son."

George found the look on the young man's face amusing. "Gentlemen, I suggest you give up now."

"Yes sir," both replied as the women laughed.

Elizabeth gestured to three of her personnel; two were Marines. "Sergeant Anderson will show you to quarters, Mr. Vice President, he'll also be your aide while you're with us."

"Thank you, Dr. Weir," the Vice President acknowledged.

Sergeant Anderson was happy with the duty, "If you'll come this way, sir, your bags have already been taken to your quarters." The Vice President followed the Sergeant, the two leaving the Gate Room.

"General," Elizabeth gestured to the second Marine. "I'm sure you remember Corporal Neils, she'll be escorting you and Margo to your quarters, and be your aide."

Jack grinned, "Janie, good to see you again," he greeted happily, "been fishing lately?"

"Yes sir, right off the pier," she answered with a grin, "This way, sir, ma'am." As they followed her, the General described to his fiancée the Corporal's interest in fishing, which amused Margo to no end.

A young woman with glasses was left; a civilian on Daniel's staff. Elizabeth waved to her, "Jon, Cassie, this is Dr. Lisa James. Lisa is one of Daniel's archaeologist's; she'll show you to your quarters and around Atlantis."

"Cool," Jon remarked, "a fellow geek to chat with."

Cassie rolled her eyes as Lisa James blushed. She squeezed her boyfriend's hand. "Come on, rock boy."

"Funny, real funny," he grumbled as they followed the Atlantis archaeologist.

Elizabeth chuckled, and wandered over to where her flag team was talking with SG-1 and the Jackson family. "Colonel Mitchell, Major Michaels, Dr. Jackson, Teal'c," she greeted. "Welcome back to Atlantis."

"Thank you, ma'am," Cameron said with a thick southern accent.

She smiled at his flirting. "You have the same quarters as before, and the bachelor party has been arranged for seven o'clock in the media room."

"That's 1900, guys," John teased, interrupting.

Kayla crossed her arms against her chest. "No, really?" she said sarcastically with a touch of innocence.

"Yes, really," he taunted back good heartedly.

Elizabeth ignored them. "I suggest you all have something to eat in the mess hall beforehand," she told them, then spoke to Daniel and Sam. "I had you both moved to larger quarters, so the children will have a room of their own. Sam, I left your dress for the wedding in your old quarters."

"Thank you, Elizabeth."

"Now, may I hold this gorgeous little girl?"

"Sure," Sam settled the infant in Elizabeth's arms, the two of them fussing.

John cleared his throat. "Elizabeth, how about we show Daniel and Sam their new quarters," he suggested. "I'm sure they'll want to do a little rearranging, and they've got the kids things to put away."

She gave him her best you'll keep look. "A good idea, Colonel."

"I know," he smirked. "Shall we?"

"We'll see SG-1 to their quarters." Teyla offered politely for the rest of her team.

"Thank you, Teyla," Elizabeth said as she left with the family and John, Ari waved over his father's shoulder at them, his older sister waving back.

SG-1 accompanied the remainder of the Atlantis flag team. "So everything is set for tonight?" Cameron inquired.

"Yep, exactly as ordered," Rodney remarked.

"Should we be worried?" Kayla asked.

"No," he snorted, insulted, "you should not; we worked hard on this party."

She smiled and patted his arm, "I'm sure you have, Rodney," she said lightly.

Rodney huffed anyway, as Ronon and Teal'c smirked behind his back. Ryan chuckled, seeing Cameron found it just as amusing. After he showed them to their quarters, he excused himself and stalked off. Teyla excused herself and left too.

"Are you participating in this ritual, Ronon Dex?" Teal'c inquired.

The former runner nodded, "I'm looking forward to it. Colonel Sheppard has explained the concept."

"General O'Neill explained it to me as well."

"So, we'll see you at dinner?" Cameron asked, breaking into their conversation.

"Indeed." Teal'c nodded.

"Sure," Ronon agreed, "about an hour in the mess hall?"

"Sounds good," the Colonel, agreed.

"I'll see you all then," he declared as he walked away, heading off to see how Amelia was doing.

Teal'c headed to his quarters, as did Ryan. Kayla found hers, and inside on the bed she found her duffle, and Cameron's, causing her to arch an eyebrow. When she heard the door tone chime, she merely thought it open, and heard the door slide as she turned. There were definite advantages to having the ATA gene at birth.

Cameron walked in and the door slid shut behind him. "My duffle didn't make it to my quarters," he saw her side-step, revealing the missing item. "Well, I see it did arrive."

Sitting on the bed, Kayla patted the space next to her, "Do you think it was deliberate or by accident?"

"With the Vice President along, I'd say accident," he saw her sigh. "What's up?"

She forced a smile. "It's nothing; it's just been a long day."

"True," he agreed and then got up, getting an idea. "If I remember rightly," he began, walking over to the door leading to the bathroom, he opened it, smiling, "there is a jet-stream bathtub, nice size too," he turned. "I'm going to run you a bath and you're going to relax."

"A bath?" she queried him wearily.

"Yes." He found everything he needed, including mildly scented candles, which he lit and placed around the room, dimming the overhead lights. He checked the water; it was warm with just the right amount of bubbles. Going back into the bedroom, he saw Kayla had removed her vest and side-arm, still in the holster, and her ID tags.

She realized he was watching her, feeling her cheeks redden, it wasn't the first he'd seen her like this, but the reaction happened anyway. "Why don't you join me?"

"Are you sure? Things can get rowdy in a Jacuzzi."

Kayla saw the hesitation in his eyes, and smiled at his joke, "I'm sure."

With a nod, he stripped down to his boxers and followed her into the bathroom, seeing just by the expression on her face she liked what he'd done. "Come on," he urged her.

Removing the last of their clothing, they got into the large tub, easing into the warm water. Kayla sat in front of Cameron, between his legs, leaning against him as he leaned against the padded wall.

She sighed, feeling his arms go round her as she nuzzled against his chest. "This is great, Cam, thank you."

The tub was big enough for three people, so the tall Colonel had plenty of room, his feet just touching the end so he didn't slip and dunk the two of them. "You're welcome, besides you need to relax more," he whispered.

She ran her foot along his calf. "We should do this more often, then."

"Neither apartment has a tub," he pointed out.

"We'll have to do something about that," she said sleepily, her eyes closed, relaxed in his arms.

Cameron smiled and placed a kiss on the top of her head, "You're not going to sleep on me, are you?"

"Mmm, thinking about it," she murmured drifting off, "don't let me fall."

"Never, Kayla," he said tenderly, "I promise." He rested his head against the wall he was leaning against. His mom had been worried about his relationship with Kayla; she was a lot younger than him. His dad of course had found it funny, but later he'd asked the question, and Cameron had told him. Told him he was falling in love with her, that he hadn't told her. His dad had just chuckled and told him he'd work it out one day.

That day had come, literary in a galaxy far, far away and to top it all off, she'd been a virgin, something he hadn't expected. When she kissed him, she threw everything into it, just as she hugged. He'd been gentle, making her first time special. Later they'd talked, and she'd told him how she'd been too young for the whole college party-dating scene, and then when she had been old enough, she'd been considered a geek, and her work and research had always come first.

Of course, Teal'c had figured they were in a relationship; he'd cornered him in the gym and told him not to hurt Kayla. Cameron had promised he never would, not on purpose anyway, and the Jaffa had been satisfied. Michaels had been just as direct, after handing in a report one morning, he'd asked to speak frankly, and had given the same warning, then walked out. That night Cameron invited his team over, and they'd sat down and talked about it, getting it out in the open. From then on, they were fine.

Feeling the water was starting to get cold, he glanced at his watch; they'd been in the tub for nearly half an hour. "Come on sleeping beauty, time to wake up," he whispered in her ear.

She sighed and opened her eyes, "You're comfortable. I think we'll market you as a mattress."

"I know, you use me for a pillow quite regularly, but the water is getting cold."

"Okay," she issued a command with her mind, and released the water, then stood, helping him up. They dried off and blew out the candles before walking out wrapped in towels.

They dressed in civvies, Cameron gathering up his clothes. "I should go and quickly unpack."

Kayla nodded. "Um, I should do the same."

"See you in twenty?"

"Yep." Kayla waited until he was gone, then quickly unpacked, hanging up the dress she'd brought with her for the wedding. Once everything was unpacked, she went into the bathroom and tidied up. Finding Cameron's boxers, she picked them up and shoved them in her laundry bag, making a mental note not to put them in with her laundry at the base, it might pose questions she wasn't prepared to answer. Going back out, she put her tags back on and brushed her hair, now mid length. Adding a little makeup, she slipped her jacket on before heading out.

Cameron was waiting outside with Ryan. They both wore jeans; the major had sandals on and a light green shirt with a denim jacket. The Colonel had a brown shirt and black leather jacket, and his favorite rawhide boots. He saw Kayla, whistling his approval. She'd chosen black denim jeans, a white t-shirt with a dark brown bomber jacket and soft calf high boots that were covered by the legs of her jeans.

"Are we ready to go?" she asked, a little flushed.

"We are, the big guy has already left," Cameron answered her, grinning. "You know how he is."

She chuckled. "We'd better go then."

In the mess hall they sat with Sheppard's team, minus Daniel, who was nowhere to be seen, neither was Sam. Jon and Cassie were also there, as was Elizabeth, Jack, Margo, and the Vice President. The three volunteer aids sat nearby, having their own dinner.

"Where's dad?" Kayla inquired.

"They're eating in their quarters," Elizabeth replied, and added, at their concerned look, "They're fine. They just thought the boy would settle better this way."

"Don't worry Indiana; your dad will not be missing the party," Jack said grinning. "I'm going to get him."

"He's walking Cassie and I and Elizabeth to Daniel's and Sam's quarters," Margo corrected. "Like the gentlemen he is. He and Daniel will then go to the party."

"Kayla and I will make sure General O'Neill behaves himself, Dr. O'Hara." Teyla said with polite calmness.

"I'm sure you will, Teyla," Margo said as the others chuckled softly.

Elizabeth ran her hand over John's denim covered leg. "That goes for you too," she said adding a squeeze, not caring if the Vice President was there.

"Yes ma'am." John agreed. He didn't care either; they weren't on Earth; so lines get blurred very quickly.

"You're so whipped, Sheppard," Cameron teased.

"And proud of it," the Colonel remarked proudly.

Kayla's eye sparkled with amusement, "Definitely whipped," she said, and asked innocently. "So will there be another wedding in the near future?"

John nearly spat out his coffee, splattering. "What?" that caused them to laugh harder. "Oh, very funny."

"I thought so," she smirked.

DF

After dinner, Jack escorted the ladies and everyone else headed for the media room where the party was being held. There was a good supply of beer, soft drink and juices, as well as snacks. Music had been set up and was being played lightly in the background. Colonel Steven Caldwell had been invited, as had Dr. Beckett and a couple of archaeologist from Daniel's department; Major Evan Lorne and a few other members of different teams arrived. Drinks were handed out and everybody mingled while they waited for the guest of honor to arrive. Having been warned that the Vice President wanted to be treated no differently than the rest for the evening, there were no ranks and no designations, it was first names only.

Teyla made her way over to Kayla, "I feel most uncomfortable at this gathering," she admitted quietly.

"I know what you mean," the young archaeologist agreed, having second thoughts about all of it.

John came over to them, giving each a soft drink. "There you go ladies."

"We should go," Teyla told them.

"Oh no, you're both staying," he insisted. "You promised Sam and Margo, you would."

"This is a bachelor party, John, you don't need us here." Kayla tried to convince him.

"Oh but we do, Indiana," Cameron said coming up behind her, knowing she flinched, but not for the reason they thought.

Teyla frown curiously, "What does this Indiana refer to?"

Both men chuckled. "Indiana Jones," John explained. "It's a movie about an archaeologist; he gets into some pretty tight jams and usually in a whole heap of trouble. I'll have to get the three moves sent in the next supply for you."

"Gen," Cameron started to use the rank and then stopped. "Jack christened Kayla with it."

"I see, so it is a title of affection?" the Athosian asked.

"A nickname," John clarified for her. "Just like Jon's is Junior and Daniel's is Space Monkey."

"Space Monkey?"

"It's a long story."

"Oh."

Daniel and Jack arrived, and the topic was forgotten, both men were handed a beer. The General called for everyone's attention. "We're here tonight to celebrate Daniel's impending wedding to the lovely Samantha Carter," there were wolf whistles and catcalls, making Daniel embarrassed and Jack chuckle. "Now, I've had the pleasure of knowing Daniel the longest, I consider him my best friend and I'm proud to say he's like a brother to me. So I propose a toast," he raised his beer. "To Daniel, the best archaeologist, anthropologist and linguist in two galaxies, as well as the biggest pain in the ass you can ever imagine." They laughed and toasted the guest of honor, drinking to him.

Daniel cleared his throat. "Well, considering I saved his ass quite a few times, I'm taking all that as a compliment," he remarked and there were more chuckles. "But seriously, I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for Jack, and I feel honored to have him as a friend and brother. Just as I feel honored you're all here tonight to celebrate with me and just remember my wife-to-be is a kick ass Lt. Colonel."

"As if we could forget Daniel," John called out.

"Yes, well, if anything happens to me, you're the first one she comes after," he reminded. "Right after she goes after Jack."

"Geez, as if I would do anything to endanger my best friend."

Daniel and everyone else chuckled. "Thank you for coming and enjoy yourselves," he told them and proceeded to mingle.

George stood next to Jack, nursing a beer. "He's come a long way, Jack."

"Yep, he's no longer the bumbling, sneezing archaeologist we first met," the General agreed and then sighed. "Our little archaeologist grew up, George."

"Yes he did, Jack; and we did a good job."

Jack clinked his beer bottle with the Vice President's. "Yes we did," he agreed, and they drank a silent toast.

"There's something else I want to talk to you about," the elder man began, keeping his voice down. "I spoke to the President after our dinner."

"And?" Jack asked a little concerned.

"And he agrees with you, the regulations need amending for the SGC," he saw the relief cross the man's face. "He also wants to just pop in and visit. No fanfare, no preparation. He doesn't want anyone to know he's coming, he wants to look at how they handle themselves at work."

"They?"

"They," George glanced over towards Mitchell and Kayla, who were talking with Caldwell.

"Got it," Jack agreed. "Well, tell him anytime, well any time they're on the planet that is."

"I'll do that. We'll coordinate with you back on Earth."

"Sounds like a plain," the SGC commander acknowledged casually.

"You don't sound too worried," George noted.

"They're my kids, George, they won't let me down." Jack stated confidently.

As the night wore on, Kayla noticed something, her frown caught John's attention. "What's up?" he asked her.

"Caldwell is avoiding Teal'c," she revealed.

"You're kidding," he queried, and then looked to see where the two men were.

"I'm not, watch," she insisted.

He watched Teal'c amble towards Caldwell, and the Daedalus Commander slyly put distance between them without making it look obvious. "Damn, you're right. Why would Caldwell be ignoring Teal'c?"

Kayla thought about it, not liking what she came up with. "Because Teal'c can sense a symbiote at close range; I think we've found our spy."

"Shit," he swore, and began to move.

She grabbed his arm. "No, we don't want to surprise him; the Goa'uld could kill Caldwell before we find out what it's up too."

"So?"

"So," she handed him her drink, "pass the word discreetly and be ready," she told him, and hurried out.

John swore again under his breath, he got rid of the second drink, and made his way around the room casually passing the word to three of his teammates and SG-1, as well as Lorne. He left Daniel out of it; it would look a little too obvious if he left the party.

Lorne made his way over to the General and Vice President and filled them both in quietly, staying with them, making casual conversation while being alert.

A call came over the internal communications system for Colonel Caldwell; he excused himself and left the party.

Jack glanced over to John and mouthed Go. Sheppard rounded up his team, minus Daniel, who was held back by Jack, and left with SG-1 following close behind.

"What's going on?" Daniel asked. He'd seen his daughter leave a few minutes before, and felt left out of the loop.

"We may have found our spy. I want you to stay here; Lorne is sticking with the President. I'll contact you if anything happens."

"Wait, won't it look funny if the best man leaves?"

"Nope, I could have something up my sleeve," Jack smirked. "Now behave, I won't be long," he assured him, and headed out. He met up with Elizabeth; he was using the stairs to give the two teams some time, and she'd apparently had the same plan.

"Interrogation room?" she asked, having been contacted by Sheppard, getting a nod from the General. They hurried, and upon arriving they heard shouting coming from inside the room, along with what sounded like two bodies being thrown around, and then a Zat went off as the two of them rushed in. Teal'c and Ronon were standing over an unconscious Caldwell, Mitchell was shaking off the effects of being thrown against a wall, Sheppard with him. Teyla was kneeling next to a dazed Kayla, who had been thrown against the other wall. Neither Rodney nor Michaels were in sight.

"What the hell happened?" Jack demanded, before Elizabeth could speak.

"The Goa'uld didn't want to play ball," Cameron announced, getting to his feet with John's help. "He did tell us though, there's a bomb."

"He rigged a power overload to occur when the Stargate is next open to Earth, the fail safes in the ZPM housing were compromised, and it would have exploded, taking out Atlantis." John explained.

Teyla helped the now conscious Kayla to sit up. "Are you alright?" she asked her.

"Yeah," she rubbed the back of her head, glancing around to see where everyone was.

Elizabeth called for both a security team and a medical team, and then tapped her earpiece again. "Rodney?"

"We've sorted it out, Elizabeth, fail safes are back online, and we're running a diagnostic just to make sure."

"Thank you, Rodney," she said, and the connection was broken.

The security team arrived, and the unconscious Colonel was chained and removed to the brig. Dr. Beckett then arrived with the medical team, checking both Mitchell and Kayla over, and insisted they go to the infirmary. They argued, as was to be expected, but in the end agreed. Sheppard and his team followed along with Teal'c.

Jack sighed, and ran his hand through his hair, "I'll head to the infirmary and see what the doc has to say before I alert Daniel. Then I'll have Lorne bring him to the infirmary if it's necessary."

"I'll let Sam know what's going on, and then make a discreet visit to the party, and let the Major know the threat is over."

"Thanks," Jack said and left, going to the infirmary. He found Michaels was there, as was Rodney, having joined their teammates. "Any word?"

"Not yet, sir," John told him.

He nodded and acknowledged Teal'c as he came over to him. "Hey big guy."

"O'Neill," he lowered his head slightly, "has Daniel Jackson been informed?"

"I thought I'd see what the doc said before I worried Daniel."

The Jaffa raised an eyebrow. "I see."

Carson came out a few minutes later, seeing he had their full attention. "Both are going to be fine," he said with his Scottish accent. "They have mild headaches from bouncing off padded walls. I've given them something for it; I'm not going to keep them in the infirmary."

"Thanks' doc," Jack said relieved.

He nodded. "Well, we'll see you back at the party."

"Was that a polite way of saying get out, Doc?" John asked him.

"It was, now go, all of you," Carson declared with a smug smile.

Chuckling, they left. Carson returned to where he'd left his two patients. "They're gone."

"Thanks' Carson," Kayla said sincerely. "They get a little over-protective."

"More than this one?" he asked, referring to Mitchell.

"Yeah," she smiled as Cameron frowned; she gave his hand a squeeze. Both were sitting on an exam bed together.

"Was there anything else you wanted to talk to me about?" Carson asked them, since neither had moved.

Cameron hopped off the bed. "I'll see you back at the party," he told them, and left, already knowing what Kayla wanted to ask, and that she wanted to do it alone.

Carson put his hands into his lab coat pockets. "What is it, luv?"

She took off her glasses and pinched her nose before putting them back on. "The procedure dad had on his eyes - will it work on mine? He partially healed my eyes when I was wounded with a knife, and for a while they were perfect, but they have reverted back to my original vision."

"I can't see why not," he answered, but had a feeling there was more to this. "Would you like me to explain it to you?" He saw her hesitate, and then nod. He gave her a rundown of the information found in the database, and then the procedure in general. "It takes about an hour, from start to finish, but you'll have to rest your eyes for about two hours after the procedure. That means in your quarters or here in the infirmary, in a darkened room with your eyes covered. It is painless, though your father commented his eyes were itchy after the procedure."

"Can we do it Sunday morning, when he and Sam aren't here?"

"Of course luv, you come to the infirmary after they leave and by the time they get back, you'll be seeing perfectly without glasses." Carson told her cheerfully and removed his lab coat.

"Thanks Carson."

"You're welcome, luv, now I suggest we get back to the party."

Agreeing, Kayla left the infirmary with him. She walked with her arms wrapped around her middle in a self-protective hug Carson had seen plenty of times with her father.

"I've had glasses since I was six years old; it's going to take some time to get use to not needing them," she said a little tentative.

They took the stairs, so they could talk. "So what made you change your mind, luv?" he asked her.

"Aeron."

"Aeron?" he was a little confused.

"When I delivered her, blood splattered on my glasses and I couldn't see what I was doing properly, I nicked her with my knife cutting the umbilical cord, the ground was shaking, and I couldn't see because of the blood." Kayla said a slight waver to her voice.

"You saved her life, lass and the cut wasn't serious," he put his hand on her lower back, just as a means of comfort. "What you did was amazing, luv; you cut a wee little baby from her mother's dead body. You made sure she was breathing; you carried her through the Stargate wrapped in your own shirt. Not many could have done that."

"I learnt how to deliver a baby while I was in Egypt, I helped a midwife, and she showed me, when I got back to the States, I took a midwifery course."

"So you're a certified midwife?"

Kayla smiled, "Surprised huh?"

"A little luv, not many archaeologists are midwives," Carson declared, removing his hand from her back.

"Dad was given some training by a midwife in Egypt too."

"Well, with your father, lass, I can understand," he mused. "His thirst for knowledge gives him an interesting view of the ways of the universe. I have the feeling you're the same way."

She smiled, her cheeks becoming crimson. "I guess you're right."

"Aye luv, I am," he mused.

When they arrived back at the party, Daniel made his way over to her. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine, dad, a bit of a headache, but it's easing," she assured him.

He glanced at Carson, who smiled. "She's fine, Daniel. Now let the poor lass enjoy herself, and I insist you do the same, doctors' orders."

Daniel gave up. "All right." He glanced over his shoulder to see that Jack and Sheppard were setting up the holo-screen. Rodney was helping; connecting a laptop. He looked back. "I have a feeling I'm going to be horribly embarrassed."

"Just remember, dad, Uncle Jack's turn is coming," Kayla reminded him.

"I know," he smirked, smugly.

Jack called everyone over and they all took seats, getting comfortable. Kayla found herself seated between John and Cameron. Daniel was seated in the middle and the slide show started. Jack had managed to collect photos from the time they'd first started, all the way to the present day. Snapshots of holidays, team nights and some of Daniel in his office, the gym, infirmary (both at the SGC and Atlantis) and in the commissary and the mess hall. The comments were made by Jack and John getting everyone laughing, as more drinks were passed around.

The night broke up around two in the morning; Teal'c walked Teyla to her quarters, the two of them talking.

George nudged Daniel, gesturing towards the sofa. Both Cameron and Kayla were asleep, the Colonel with his feet on the coffee table in front of him. His archaeologist had stretched out, her head on his lap. Everyone had just continued the party without taking any notice of them. "Are you sure Dr. Beckett only gave them something for the headache?"

"Knowing Carson, probably not," Daniel remarked. "Still they need to get back to their quarters." He looked around, seeing the ex-runner was still there. "Ronon, can you give me a hand, please."

"Sure, Doc," he joined them.

"Can you take Cameron back to his quarters, while I take Kayla?"

"No problem," he remarked, and waited until Daniel had picked Kayla up before grabbing Mitchell in a Fireman's hold and carried him out; the Colonel never stirred.

Daniel followed, getting his daughter back to her quarters; he laid her down on her bed and removed her glasses, putting them on the bedside table. She half woke up, and with his help got her jacket off and jeans, he pulled the sheet over her and turned the lights off. "Night honey."

"Night dad," she whispered in her sleep.

He leant over and kissed her forehead before leaving. Heading back to his quarters, he found Sam was up feeding Aeron, and had the lights dimmed. "Morning, how are my girls?" He pulled his jacket off and kissed Sam's head.

"Tired," she whispered. "How was your night?"

"Interesting and embarrassing. I'll tell you later in the morning."

"Okay," she agreed with a tired smile.

"How was yours?"

"It was good," Sam said with a quiet chuckle, adding. "I'll tell you later."

He had a feeling they both had tales to tell. He slipped into the bedroom and changed for bed; returning he sat with Sam, watching as Aeron suckled contently on her bottle, falling asleep as she finished. "I'll take her," he volunteered.

She laid a cloth nappy over his shoulder and gave him his daughter. "There you go."

"See you in a few minutes," he promised and stood, patting the infants back gently.

Sam got up, washed out the bottle, and then checked on Ari before heading to bed.

Daniel walked over to the windows while continuing to pat his daughter's back, the infant had brought up the wind that was in her tummy, but he wasn't quite ready to put her in her crib yet. He hummed to her as he stood looking out at the moon-lit city and ocean.

You are a good father, Daniel.

He smiled warmly, seeing his ascended brother-in-law in the reflection of the window. "I missed so much of Kayla's childhood; I won't do that with Aeron or Ari."

Skaara moved closer, smiling. Both your daughters are happy, Daniel. It is time to be happy too. You cannot change what happened. Any more then you can bring either daughter's mother back, he said softly. Live for what you have, Daniel. Sha're, Emily and Ezra are proud of you.

He nodded, understanding. "Thank you."

You are welcome my brother, he said and then was gone.

Daniel kissed the top of his baby daughter's head. "Time for bed little one," he said quietly, and carried her into the bedroom, turning out the lights as he went. The nursery was just off the main bedroom; he settle the infant in her crib and slipped out of the room.

Sam snuggled into his side, her head resting on his chest. "I love you, Daniel."

"I love you too, Sam," he whispered and felt her hand move down his chest. He guessed she wasn't that tired after all. Surprising her, he pinned her beneath him, his lips claiming hers, and she responded willingly. Oh yeah, not tired at all.

DF

To be continued…