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 think Daniel needed Skaara to visit and it just seemed right. Thanks for reading and reviewing. Winjan: I always thought Hammond would make a good VP, so I just couldn't resist writing it into my story. As for the SGC starting its own adoption agency - not a bad idea. I hope you enjoy this chapter. Cassandra Jean: Sorry the last chapter took so long, but it took a while to put together and Christmas did put a hold on my writing for a little while, but I'm back and trying to keep a chapter a head, but it doesn't always work out so well. I love you reviews, they're the best. To answer your question about regs, you'll have to keep reading, but things are happening. And thanks for picking up on my blooper, I've fixed it up on chapter 7 and my beta reader caught it in this one. Silly me. Thanks for nitpicking.
Old Author's Note: A big thank you once again to my beta reader – Polly, you're the best. Especially for putting up with my bad spelling and thanks for the 'WOW!' that made my day.
2015 Author's Note: For those who have read this story and are re-reading it, the chapters have changed a little. I tried to get them back where they originally where, but I did have to change some.
DF
Chapter Eight: A Wedding, a Quest and a Dragon
On Saturday, Cassie crawled into the bed and over to her sleeping boyfriend; it was nearly two in the afternoon. The sheet has slipped down to his waist, his chest was bare and she knew he was naked under the sheet too. Unlike Jack, Jon had discovered the freedom of sleeping without clothes. She placed a soft kiss on his washboard stomach, feeling the muscles contract. She moved a little higher and did it again, getting the same reaction. She continued until she was straddling him on all fours, she placed a kiss on his lips.
She squealed when hands grabbed her and she was pinned to the bed by a very awake Jon O'Neill. "Morning," she said with a sexy purr.
"Morning," he said and kissed her, parting her lips, his tongue playing a tantalizing game with hers.
Cassie moaned, feeling his hard body against hers and he tasted like mint, which meant only one thing. "You've been up," she guessed.
He grinned cheekily. "I didn't want to spoil your wake up, so I came back to bed."
"Pain," she teased.
He laughed. "I know," he nuzzled at her neck. "I loved the idea though, you and me in bed, this late in the afternoon."
"Mmm and we're not the only ones, I saw Elizabeth sneaking into Colonel Sheppard's quarters as I was coming here, and," she groaned as he moved lower, undoing the buttons on her shirt. "Margo went to wake Uncle Jack up after lunch and hasn't been seen since."
"Like father, like son," he mused and continued what he'd been doing.
She gasped, feeling his hot breath against her cool skin. "I also know that Teyla snuck out of Teal'c's quarters about an hour ago," she toed off her shoes; they landed with a thump off the bed. "We heard what happened last night with Caldwell."
"Any word?" he inquired, but didn't stop his conquest, he enjoyed making her wither beneath him.
"Hermiod," she moaned. "Hermiod managed to successfully remove the symbiote from," she sucked in her breath as his lips grazed her stomach, just above the panty line; she hadn't even realized her jeans had come off. "Colonel Caldwell, using Asgard beaming technology," she groaned, her senses felt like they were overly sensitive. "He's resting in the Daedalus' infirmary; the doctors say he's going to be fine."
Jon moved up her body, he'd managed to untangle himself from the sheet. "Sounds like Margo is going to be doing some intergalactic house calls."
"Sounds like it," Cassie said, not caring. She now lay half naked beneath him. She moved, running her foot down his leg and then shifted her weight, getting the upper hand to flip him onto his back, so she was on top. "Now, this is more like it," she mused and rid herself of the last of her clothing.
"Much more like," he grinned, and drew her down. Heck, he didn't care if she was on top. Not one bit.
DF
In another part of the city, Daniel found his oldest daughter on one of the balconies; she was looking over the city. He slipped his arm around her as he stood beside her. "It's remarkable isn't it?"
She nodded, smiling. "Thank you for getting me home last night, or I should say this morning."
"You're welcome; at least you and Mitchell got more sleep than the rest of us," her father commented.
"I think Carson had something to do with that," she remarked.
"I don't doubt it," he agreed and felt her lean against him, resting her head on his shoulder. "So how is Mitchell this afternoon?"
She knew he was fishing for information. "He's fine; we're going running later."
"Did he get you into that?"
"No, Lou did, he said I need to build up my stamina and leg muscles, so he had me go running with him," Kayla explained. "After I returned to Earth, I kept it up. Cam asked me to go running with him one morning and after that we made it a regular date."
"Date?"
She chuckled and pulled away. "To go running, Dad," and then suggested, "I was going to take a walk, would you like to join me?"
"Sure."
They left the balcony, moving through the city, heading into the deserted parts. Kayla studied the architecture as she walked, which occasionally meant touching the walls.
Daniel watched her with fascination, asking. "When you're here, do you feel anything?"
She turned, curious that he'd brought it up, nodding slowly. "It's like a hum in the back of my consciousness, I feel it as soon as I arrive through the Stargate, and I don't lose it until I leave," she explained. "Is it the same for you?"
He nodded, "John too, I guess anyone who has the ATA gene senses it that way."
She agreed, "The stronger the gene, the stronger the sensation, I would guess." She stopped as the door on her right opened, she hadn't triggered it.
Daniel stopped too, "Did you do that?"
"No." She took a look, it opened into another corridor. She glanced back, seeing her father had followed her. "Have you been here before?"
"No," he said quietly. He tapped his earmic. "Operations, this is Dr. Jackson."
"Go ahead, Dr. Jackson."
A second door slid open. He arched an eyebrow, as did his daughter. "Kayla and I are in the South wing, level 3, do you read any power surges in this area?"
There was a pause, then, "No, Dr. Jackson. We have your location; our sensors say that part of the city is powered down and deserted."
"Jackson, it's Mitchell, what did you touch?" Cameron's voice came over their earmics.
She smiled. "Nothing, Colonel," she assured. "It's like the city is leading us somewhere."
"All right, stay where you are, I'll be there in five minutes," he ordered.
"Yes, sir," she said lightly.
Daniel chuckled. "You know, Jack was the same way with me."
"So I've been told," she commented lightly.
Cameron Mitchell arrived with John Sheppard. Both men were kitted up, and they had brought Kayla and Daniel extra P-90's and vests as well. All were still carrying their side arms.
As they kitted up, John looked a bit perturbed, and mumbled, "All right, let's go exploring; maybe we get to shoot some computer holograms." He looked like he'd been routed out of bed, and he had been.
Kayla took point, letting the city guide her, ignoring John's irritation. "Is Rodney at Operations?" She asked him.
"Yeah,"
She tapped her earpiece. "Rodney."
"Yes, Kayla."
She had a theory. "Do you having any readings?"
"We're reading a slight increase in power output," he reported. "We're tracking you."
Another door opened, this one into a darkened room. As soon as Kayla crossed the threshold the lights came on. The hum she usual perceived at the back of her consciousness became louder. She turned to her father. "Do you feel it?"
He nodded, "It's getting stronger."
"What has?" Cameron asked them.
"The hum," John told him, "I feel it too."
"Sort of like a weird sensation at the back of your mind?" he wanted to know.
John nodded. "Yep, feel it?"
"Yeah."
Rodney had been listening in, "What kind of weird sensation?"
"It's more like a hum; it's from the city, there as soon as you arrive." Kayla clarified.
"Dr. Jackson, this is Elizabeth. Perhaps you should head back to the main tower and have Carson check you all out."
"Elizabeth, we're fine," John assured her. "The hum is there all the time with us."
"I don't sense it," Rodney whined.
The four of them rolled their eyes in amusement, grinning at that. "We're fine," Daniel insisted. The room they'd entered was a lab, the consoles lit up, free of any dust. "We could use Rodney's help down here though."
"True," John agreed.
Kayla walked over to one of the consoles, attaching her P-90 to her vest as she did. She instinctively worked the console. Suddenly, Rodney appeared in a flash of light. He patted himself down, and then glared at them. "How? Who did that?"
Before they could answer, Elizabeth's voice interrupted. "John, Rodney just disappeared!"
"It's okay Elizabeth, he's here," John replied.
"Sorry Elizabeth, that was me," Kayla apologized, grimacing.
Rodney hustled his way over to her. "What did you do?" he demanded.
She chewed on her bottom lip, and then showed him, without actually touching anything. She had done it on instinct.
He took it all in, reading the Alteran script, understanding the purpose of the console, just as she had. "I could use my laptop about now, get some readings," he muttered to no one in particular.
Taking her PDA from her pocket, Kayla handed it to him, seeing him give her a yeah right look. "It'll interface with all the Atlantis systems, and will network with your laptop. Sam designed it."
He took it; if Sam Carter had designed it, then it would do everything she said it would. "Thank you."
"You're welcome," Kayla said, and moved out of the way as he started muttering to himself again.
"Do you carry that thing with you all the time?" her father asked.
"I was working on a couple of translations before you found me," she admitted. "And yes I do."
"She's not allowed to take it home," Cameron added, "even though she tries to sneak it out occasionally."
"I do not!"
"You do," he said bluntly, "and you know it."
She smiled and ducked her head. "Yeah, maybe I do."
He ruffled her hair and went to take a look around the lab.
Daniel could see Jack had been right; the Colonel had some deep feelings for Kayla. He hid them well, but they were there. Patting his daughter on the back, they did some exploring of their own.
John approached Rodney, keeping his voice down. "Kayla is stronger in the ATA gene than I am."
"I noticed," he remarked, and looked away from the PDA for a moment. "You're not jealous are you?"
"Oh, very funny," the Colonel grumbled.
Rodney chuckled, and went back to work, getting some results. "Well, it looks like the Lantean scientists were working on transporters," he filled them in. "Kayla used her mind to access the transporter, and had it lock onto me, and then transported me here. And not by explicit intent, only by wishful thinking."
"So it could lock onto anyone within the city?" John theorized.
"Yes, yes, as long as the city knows who and where they are."
"Okay, that's a bit scary." He turned to Kayla and added, "And we need to be more careful about what we wish for around these things." She merely nodded.
"No kidding. I'll get a team down here, and we'll go through all of this and see what else is here," Rodney announced. "These systems seem to be segregated from the main control systems on Atlantis."
"All right, get your team down here, but remember the dinner tonight," John reminded.
"Got it," Rodney declared, and continued with what he was doing.
Shaking his head, John went over to his SG-1 counterpart. "We're out of here, the eggheads are taking over."
Cameron chuckled, and gestured to the two archaeologists, who were already deeply engrossed in some Ancient writing. "Do you think we can get them to leave?"
"Are the Wraith ugly?"
Snorting, Cameron suggested. "I could get Teal'c down here; he usually just hauls her over his shoulder and carries her out."
"Ronon did that to you earlier this morning," the Atlantis military commander remarked.
"Yes, I must thank him," SG-1's team leader groused.
John grinned. "Yes, well, never believe Carson when he says just a wee bit something for your headache."
"Yeah, he's as bad as Dr. Lam."
"So?"
Cameron dug into one of his vest pockets, and pulled out a pack of cards. "We pass the time, then when it's time to get them both out of here, and ready for the dinner tonight, our larger and much stronger teammates can haul them out."
"I like your way of thinking," John said. "So poker?"
"Poker," Cameron agreed.
"You know, we can hear you," Kayla remarked as she continued reading the script on the walls.
The science team arrived while they were playing their first hand; Sam was among them, carrying baby Aeron in a sling that Teyla had given her. Not wanting to jostle the baby around, she gave Cameron a baby bag and the baby. He had to remove his P-90 to get the sling on, but soon he was happily playing poker again, with baby Aeron asleep in her sling, leaving Sam to do her thing with the rest of the scientists.
When Ryan and Teal'c arrived two hours later, with Ronon and Teyla, the two Jackson's were sitting on the floor with John and Cameron. The two Colonels were still playing poker; the baby was now with Kayla in her sling being fed. Daniel had Kayla's PDA, and they were discussing the text downloaded for them by Rodney.
Cameron noticed their teammates had come in. "Hey guys, want to sit in on a hand?"
"We cannot, Colonel Mitchell, it is time to leave." Teal'c answered.
"Really?" He glanced at his watch, it was after four. "Damn, time flies when you're having fun."
John packed up the cards and put them back in their box, giving them back to his counterpart as they got to their feet. "All right people," he said loudly, getting everyone's attention. "Pack it up, you can come back and play tomorrow."
There were quite a few complaints, from Scientists and Archaeologists alike.
Neither Colonel was taking any flak. "Colonel Carter, would you please take your daughter," Cameron requested.
Curious as to what he was up to, Sam did what he asked. Kayla relinquished the baby to her, along with the sling and the now empty bottle. Daniel helped fasten the sling to Sam, and then they both stepped to one side at Cameron's urging, and then handed Kayla her PDA.
"Major," Cameron addressed his 2IC, "would you take their P-90's please?" He waited until both were handed to Michaels. "Ronon, Teal'c, if you would."
Both men smiled. Before Daniel or Kayla could protest, they were picked up in fireman's holds and carried out of the lab by their teammates.
John grinned. "Now, if anyone else would like the same treatment, I suggest you remain. I'm sure Ronon and Teal'c would be happy to oblige."
Without any more hesitation, computer tablets were packed up and the remaining personnel left the area.
Sam picked up the baby bag, grinning. "Nice work guys."
"Why thank you, Ma'am," Cameron smirked. She chuckled and walked out.
"You know, Kayla is going to be pissed at you," Ryan noted as they left.
"Possibly, but I'm starting to get used to a prissy Jackson," his team leader noted.
"It takes some practice," John said with a sigh. "And boy, don't they hold a grudge."
"Oh yeah," Cameron agreed wholeheartedly.
Teyla smiled. "I believe they will both forgive you."
"Thank you Teyla," John said, and then patted Cameron on the back. "See, at least someone has confidence in us."
"Forgive, Colonel. Not forget."
"We're dead meat."
"Oh yeah," Cameron groaned.
DF
Carson corned Sheppard, Mitchell and both Jackson's before the dinner, calling them to the infirmary. "I want to know about this hum you all experienced this afternoon."
"It's always there, Carson; well, while we're within Atlantis it is." John answered.
"Only while you're within Atlantis?" he frowned, concerned. "And you all have the ATA gene."
"But Mitchell only has the gene because of gene therapy," Kayla noted.
"True, but when the Colonel is with you his ability to use Ancient technology increases, which would mean so does his sensitivity to the gene," the doctor revealed.
"Okay, so we're sensing the city," John decided. "It was built by the Ancients; the technology reacts to the ATA gene, so that would make sense."
"So why don't I feel this hum, or Rodney, or anyone else who has the ATA gene?"
"Jack does, as does Jon," Daniel disclosed.
"General O'Neill and his son also feel this hum?" Carson asked him, and got a nod.
Kayla nodded, "Which would make sense if you think about it. Jack, John, Dad, Jon, and I are strong with the gene, and Mitchell experiences an increase in the bond with me."
The doctor agreed with her. "And if we rated the gene on a scale, General O'Neill, Jon O'Neill, Colonel Sheppard and Daniel are eights; you're a nine – maybe ten Kayla, and Colonel Mitchell is a seven while he's in contact with you. I'd be a five and Rodney, and say Major Michaels, would be three's."
"Well, aren't we the lucky ones," John remarked sarcastically. "Can we go now? Elizabeth is going to be very upset if we don't make it to the dinner, especially when one of the guests of honor is with us."
Carson could see he wasn't going to get any sense out of them. "All right," he gave in. "Kayla, luv, will you wait a moment."
She remained as the other's stepped out, giving her a moment of privacy. "Does this have to do with tomorrow?"
He nodded. "I have everything set up. After your father and Colonel Carter leave, come to the infirmary and I'll do the procedure, and then Colonel Mitchell can escort you back to your quarters; where I want you to rest for two hours. I'll come to your quarters to remove the bandages."
"Okay," she agreed.
He gave her a comforting smile. "Don't worry lass, everything will turn out fine," he assured her, and they left the infirmary, joining the other's.
The dinner had been arranged by John and Elizabeth for the bride and groom, it was being held in one of the large mess halls. Each table had a white linen tablecloth, china plates, silver knives and forks, crystal glasses and a table decoration. No one asked where it had all come from, as Elizabeth had arranged for it to be brought from Earth, and Jack had brought it with him, no questions asked.
Guests arrived, and were served drinks; all had managed to dress in their best attire. Military personnel found their dress uniforms had also been brought from Earth for the occasion, as well as the wedding.
Cassie gave Jon's hand a gentle squeeze, seeing his gaze was on his 'dad' who was in his Class A's. "You okay?"
"Yeah," he gave her a smile.
"You could have joined up, you know," she pointed out.
"No," he shook his head. "I'm not him, I don't see things the way he does."
She knew that. She also knew he looked handsome in the dark trousers, white shirt, and black tie. She moved closer and whispered in his ear. "You don't need a uniform to look sexy."
A shiver ran up his spine. "I don't huh?"
"No," she said, almost purring.
"Thanks Cass."
"You're welcome."
Teyla was escorted in by Teal'c, she looked beautiful in an earth colored dress, and Teal'c was handsome in his black suit.
Cassie smiled, seeing the Jaffa smiling at something the Athosian said. "I think Teal'c and Teyla make a nice couple."
"You do huh, I think Ronon is jealous." Jon smirked. The person in question had put on his best clothing and was frowning a little.
Cassie giggled. "A little competition is good for the soul."
"Really?"
"Mm, just don't think about it," she warned.
Jon chuckled. "Yes, Ma'am."
Major Evan Lorne stood with his date, physicist Dr. Carin Rayner; and also present was a member of his team, Lt. Jason Williams and his date, engineer Michelle Nicholas.
Carin Rayner saw Colonel Mitchell come in with Kayla Jackson, Sheppard, and Daniel Jackson, the two Air Force officers in their Class A's. She nudged Michelle, getting her attention, pointing them out; whispering, "Nice."
Michelle looked, admiring the view. "Oh yeah," she giggled. "I'd love to line up Mitchell, Sheppard, and Dr. Jackson and see which has the best butt."
"That would be Kayla," Evan said softly into his date's ear, "hands down."
"Oh, I don't know, I think it would be a difficult decision," she mused.
"Maybe we should put in a request to Dr. Weir and ask for her to line you all up and then we'll have a good judge." Michelle suggested, grinning. "Teal'c has a great set of buns too."
"Oh, and so does Ronon," Carin added, teasing.
"Yeah, well, as long as we get to line you girls up for the same treatment," Jason threw back at them.
"Gentlemen, ladies," John greeted, having coming up behind them.
"Sir," Evan said, a little embarrassed about being caught.
"Major," he smiled, "enjoy the party," he told them and headed over to his date.
Elizabeth took his arm, "What have you been up too?"
"Oh just terrorizing my people," he answered. "They were trying to figure out who had the best butt on Atlantis at the moment."
She slipped her hand behind him, giving his a gentle squeeze. "I know who I'd choose."
He forced himself not to flinch, clearing his throat. "Yes, well."
She giggled at his nervousness. "Come on John, we've a dinner to give. We'll discuss your butt later tonight."
"I'm looking forward to it," he remarked.
"So am I."
The night went well; dinner was served, as was dessert. Speeches were given by Elizabeth, John, Jack, and the Vice President. They recalled different experiences, and had everyone either laughing or in deep thought.
The night ended with a few couples taking a walk along one of the piers, George deciding to go to bed early.
Margo walked hand in hand with Jack. "I had a talk with George before we came to dinner."
"Oh?"
"I'm going to prepare a report for him, and he's going to give it to the President to review."
"Concerning the regs?"
"Mm," she released his hand and slipped her arm around his waist, "don't worry."
"I'm not," he kissed the top of her head, his arm going around her waist, "not in the least." He looked over to where Mitchell and Kayla stood in each other's arms. "I just don't want to lose either of them."
"You won't," she assured.
Cameron nuzzled the top of Kayla's head; he could smell the shampoo she'd used. "Are you sure about tomorrow?"
She looked up; she wore her contacts instead of her glasses. "I'm sure."
He cupped her face in his hands, caressing with his thumbs. "I can't say I'm going to miss your glasses, I like being able to stare into your beautiful blue eyes."
"I like staring into yours," she said softly.
He lent down, his lips brushing over hers. "I love you, Dr. Kayla Jackson."
"I love you, Lt. Colonel Cameron Mitchell," she said and sighed as he kissed her again.
DF
After seeing her father and Sam off, Kayla headed to the infirmary, smiling. Last night after the walk on the pier she and Cameron had gone back to her quarters. Waking up in his arms to the sound of the ocean had been wonderful.
Carson saw her walk in. "Good morning luv, you look cheerful."
"I had a good night," she said smiling.
"Well, I think a lot of us did, luv," he remarked cheekily, and led her into one of the treatment rooms. "Up on the bed, glasses off, and lay back." As she sat up on the bed and removed her glasses, a nurse came in to assist Carson, and he added, "Are you ready lass?"
Kayla nodded nervously. "Yeah, I guess so."
"Don't worry luv, it'll be over before you know it," he promised. "I'm going to give you a mild sedative to help you relax, close your eyes, and then we'll start."
"Okay."
Carson moved an Alteran device, suspended from the ceiling, to cover her face. She noticed a gentle light through her eyelids, a slight humming, and felt perfectly at ease for the next hour.
Once the procedure was complete, Carson covered her eyes with a black bandage, and left Kayla in the treatment room, finding Colonel Mitchell loitering in his infirmary. "Colonel."
"How is she, doc?"
"She's going to be fine, Colonel; she's a little groggy from the sedative." He guided the Colonel into the treatment room. "Take her back to her quarters, and make sure she rests, keep the room dark. I'll be along in two hours to remove the bandages."
"I'll make sure she does everything you told her, doc," Cameron insisted.
Carson had no doubts about that. "I'll see you later then."
Cameron gathered Kayla up in his arms. "Come on sunshine, let's go," he said tenderly and carried her out. He had the route planned, getting to her quarters without too many people seeing either of them. He laid her gently on the bed in the darkened room, guarded at the door by their teammates, who had been informed discreetly, and Michaels and Teal'c were going to make sure they weren't disturbed. He carefully removed Kayla's boots, leaving them on the floor at the end of the bed. He undid the laces on his own and slipped them off, lying down next to her.
She snuggled into him. "Cam?"
"Shush, rest," he ordered. "You didn't get a lot of it last night."
"Was your fault," she murmured.
He smiled at that. Oh yeah, it certainly was and they'd enjoyed every minute of it.
DF
In Sam and Daniel's quarters, Elizabeth sat with Aeron cradled in her arms while John played with Ari on the floor. They had a stack of beautiful burl-wood blocks, and the two were building towers, and then knocking them down. The little boy laughed every time he knocked the blocks over, which had John laughing. Just watching the two of them made Elizabeth smile, the man she loved was amazing with the little boy, and she hoped one day that she was going to be sitting watching him playing with their son. They hadn't talked about marriage or family, and his reaction over Kayla's question Friday night hadn't been that much of a surprise to her. She knew John loved her, she knew one day, when the time was right they'd make a commitment, whether it was marriage or something else. She just knew it would happen eventually, and one day they would have their own children.
Glancing down at the infant in her arms, she found the baby asleep. She got up carefully and took her into the nursery, laying her down gently in her crib. She felt strong arms enclose her as she straightened, and she smiled leaning back against John as she hugged his arms. "She's so tiny," she whispered.
"Mmm," he nibbled at her ear. "I foresee her giving her father a hard time when she grows up, he's going to have to carry a stun gun around just to pick off the young men wanting to date his daughter."
Elizabeth giggled softly. "I have a feeling you'd be just as protective if she was yours."
"Well I plan on being a good Uncle, and make sure both have lots of fun," he promised and then turned her in his arms. "And maybe one day," he kissed her lips gently. "They will be playing with our kids."
"Ours?" she felt her heart beat a little faster.
"Mmm, a little girl with your smile and a boy with my good looks, or better yet, a girl with your good looks and a boy with my smile, or…" he mused.
She put her finger to his lips, then circled her arms around his neck and rose up on her toes to kiss him. "I'd like that."
"So would I," he admitted and confessed. "I didn't mean for you to get the opinion I don't want to get married or have kids, because I do," he said and then shrugged casually. "I don't even care which order it happens in, it's all fine with me."
"Really?" she teased grinning. "You don't care?"
"Nope, as long as you're the mommy and I'm the daddy," he said cheekily. "And you do know practicing is half the fun."
"Oh yes, I do," she agreed. "But that's going to have to wait, our shift isn't over yet."
"I can wait, barely," he told her, and then gave her a quick kiss. Releasing her, he hurried back into the sitting room to the little boy. Elizabeth sighed and walked out into the sitting room, admiring his cute butt as he hunkered down to talk to Ari. Oh yeah, practicing was fun.
In the guest wing, Vice President Hammond stood in front of Jack O'Neill's quarters, his aid Sergeant Anderson took up a position by the door as it opened.
"Hey George, come in," Jack said happily.
The Vice President stepped through and the door slid shut. "Jack, do you mind telling me why Colonel Mitchell is holed up in Dr. Jackson's quarters, and the rest of their team is making sure no one disturbs them?"
Jack grimaced and gestured for the former General to sit down, doing so himself. "Kayla had a medical procedure done on her eyes this morning. She's lightly sedated at this very moment in her room, which is in darkness, even though her eyes are covered."
"Is this the same procedure her father had?" George inquired, calming down.
"Yes, sir," the SGC commander answered. "Though the Ancient database said the risks are low, there are risks. And if her eyes are subjected to bright light before the two hours are up, she could lose her sight. That's why Mitchell is there, he's to make sure she stays calm and no one turns up the lights."
"Who else knows about this?"
"Elizabeth and Sheppard, only because Carson was obligated to tell them, she only made the choice to go ahead with it Friday night." Jack explained. "Mitchell told me, because like Carson, he was obligated and Kayla wanted him too."
Sitting back, George sighed. "Atlantis is an amazing place, Jack; and Dr. Weir has done a wonderful job in leading this expedition. Sheppard is an outstanding officer and leader of men, but…"
"But the lines are crossed and blurred." Jack stated.
"Yes."
"Sir, George, we are in another galaxy. Their life here hasn't been easy, and they've done the best they can under some horrific circumstances. I think you and I both know the relationships and friendships formed within this city are the reason why these people have survived."
"Are you trying to tell me politely it's the same way within the SGC?"
"Yes and no, sir," he declared. "We're not in another Galaxy, but we do face circumstances that normal military personnel wouldn't face." Jack paused. "As for Mitchell, he'd be doing the same thing if it was Michaels or Teal'c. Yes, he loves Kayla, and yes, they and every other couple crossed the line last night, but George, it's what they needed. They have to let go every once and awhile."
"And a wedding is a good excuse to let go?"
"Yes, it is indeed."
George chuckled, "You're a smart man, Jack."
"Thank you, sir," he said with a grin.
DF
Carson saw the final wedding preparations were taking place as he made his way through the city to the living quarters.
Teal'c stood outside Kayla Jackson's quarters. "Dr. Beckett."
"Teal'c. Any problems?"
"No. All has been quiet," he replied as he waved his hand over the panel, and the door slid open.
The room was dimly lit, but Carson easily made out Cameron Mitchell. "Hey doc," the Colonel greeted, "Right on time."
"Thank you," he walked in, carrying his medical bag. "How is the patient?"
"She woke up a few minutes ago," Cameron replied as they went over to the bed.
"How are you feeling, Kayla?" Carson inquired.
She was sitting up, cross-legged on the bed. "I have a headache and my eyes are itchy."
"Well, luv, I did warn you." He took a chair and sat in front of her, opening his medical bag at his feet. "Colonel, could you raise the lights a little please? Just a very little."
"Sure doc." The lighting increased as the Alteran technology responded to his thoughts.
"Alright luv, keep your eyes closed," Carson told her, and after she nodded, he removed the bandages, and then took the Ancient medical scanner from his bag and scanned her eyes, reading the results. There was no tissue damage; the regeneration had worked perfectly. "Open your eyes slowly; we'll keep the lights down for the moment."
At first her sight was blurry, then slowly it cleared. Her eyes watered, and tears run down her cheeks, even in the dim light, it seemed bright to her. She closed her eyes. "It's bright."
"I know, luv, but it'll get better, your optic nerves have to get use to working properly. Try again," he urged.
She did, the blurriness cleared faster and the brightness slowly faded until she could keep her eyes open without squinting.
"Let's have a little more light, Colonel."
Cameron raised the lights a little more, and then handed Kayla a tissue, seeing the tears.
She wiped her eyes gently and her cheeks. "Thanks."
"No problem," he told her with a grin.
Carson checked her eyes again. "Good, good, a bit more Colonel."
Slowly, Cameron kept bringing the lights up until they were at normal illumination. He sat next to Kayla. "How's that?"
She turned and looked at him, smiling. "Hey."
"Hey, back atcha sunshine," he grinned, and turned to the doc. "So, Carson, another success?"
"It looks like it, my boy," the Scotsman said cheerfully and put away his equipment. He took a bottle of pills out of his bag and gave them to Kayla. "Take two of these for your headache once a day, and try and take it easy. Stay out of direct sunlight for three days, and you'll have to wear sunglasses when you leave this room; and you might find bright lights a little annoying for a few days, but the discomfort doesn't last; and no, um, heavy exercising for a few days. Your father has no problems now."
"Thanks Carson."
"You're welcome, luv," he closed his bag and stood. "I'll see you both at the wedding."
Cameron walked with him to the door. "Thanks doc," he said keeping his voice down.
"Son, that young lady is very special, just like her father. You look after her," Carson suggested.
"I will."
"Good man," he said and nodded to Teal'c on his way out.
Cameron acknowledged his teammate. "Thanks big guy, you can take off now."
Teal'c bowed his head. "I will inform Major Michaels that it has been successfully."
"And the General, if you don't mind."
"I do not," he said, and then walked away.
Cameron chuckled, and went back inside, the door closing behind him. Kayla walked over to him, smiling. He was going to have to get used to seeing her all the time without glasses, and so was everyone else. "Are you okay?"
She nodded. "I took the tablets. They'll probably put me to sleep, knowing Carson."
"Well, I'll make sure you don't miss your dad's wedding," he assured her and guided her back to the bed. "Come on, you're almost asleep on your feet."
She lay down and grabbed his hand. "Stay."
He didn't hesitate. Going around he lay down and spooned up against her. "Rest, Kayla," he whispered, seeing she was already drifting off. "I have you."
Elizabeth was in the Gate Room when Jacob Carter came through the Stargate with Daniel and his new wife. She smiled. "Welcome to Atlantis, General Carter," she greeted as the Stargate deactivated, and the guards moved off.
He smiled. "Jacob will do fine, Dr. Weir," he insisted, taking in the sight of the big city. "This is amazing."
"Thank you, and please, call me Elizabeth," she said.
He nodded, and then Selmac took control. "Atlantis is truly wonderful, Dr. Weir. May I also call you Elizabeth?"
"Please, it's nice to meet you, Selmac. Sam and Daniel have told me a lot about you."
"Do not believe half of what they or Jacob tell you," the symbiote said with a grin.
Elizabeth smiled. "Oh I think I will," she smirked and then addressed the newlyweds. "Welcome back, Dr. Jackson. Colonel Jackson."
Sam blushed. "Wow, I hadn't been expecting that."
"Will it be Colonel Jackson, or still Colonel Carter?" Elizabeth asked.
Daniel squeezed his wife's hand. "Sam is going to stay Colonel Carter; it's a lot easier than saying Carter-Jackson."
"Well anytime you want to change it, just let me know."
"Thank you Elizabeth," Sam gave her a hug. "Now, where are my children?"
"Kayla's quarters, Colonel Mitchell is looking after them and doing quite well," Elizabeth mused. "Though he did tell me he has a baby brother."
"Why Kayla's quarters?" Daniel asked concerned.
"I'll let the Colonel explain it," she answered. "Don't worry." She turned to Jacob. "I'll see you at the wedding Selmac-Jacob."
Jacob was once more in control. "Thank you, Elizabeth."
She nodded and hurried back up the stair to her office.
Daniel and Sam guided Jacob out of the Gate Room and through the city, using the transporters to get to the living quarters, explaining things to the Tok'ra, who was interested.
As they arrived at Kayla's quarters, the door slid open as they approached. Cameron was seated on the floor with Ari. "Hey guys," he greeted, getting to his feet, the part of the room that contained the bed was dimly lit.
The little boy jumped up and ran over to his parents. "Mommy, daddy."
Sam enclosed him in her arms and picked him up, straightening. "Hey little man, how are you?"
"I'm good," he said. "Ayla sick."
Daniel glared at Mitchell as the Colonel got to his feet. "Cameron?"
"She has a mild headache," he explained keeping his voice down. "She's fine; Aeron is with her." Cameron looked to the Tok'ra, and nodded a greeting, "Jacob."
"Cameron, you look better than the last time I saw you," the ex-General remarked lightly.
"Thanks, I try. Keeping up with Jackson is enough to get me on my feet and running," he jeered. "Sheppard said he feels the same way."
"Funny, Mitchell," Daniel grumbled, and crossed over to his daughter. As he got closer, he could hear her soft sweet voice. She was laying on her side, singing to her baby sister lying beside her. A song by Bette Midler, Baby Mine.
Sam came up behind him, smiling. Behind her, Ari was sitting on his grandfather's knee, talking softly, but quickly. Standing next to her husband, Sam lent against him and listened to her new step-daughter sing.
Kayla looked up, seeing she had an audience, she blushed. "Hey dad, Sam," she mentally ordered the lights up a little.
"Hey kiddo," Daniel greeted. "Feeling better?"
"Yeah, headache is almost gone," she admitted, and felt Aeron grab her finger, cooing softly. "I guess she liked my singing."
"It was beautiful, Kayla," Sam praised.
Gathering Aeron, she stood and put the baby in her mother's arms. "She's been really good, they both have."
Daniel thought she looked a little pale. "Are you sure you're alright, you don't want to see Carson?"
"Dad, I'm fine," she insisted. "I've seen Carson; he said the headache will go."
He noticed she didn't make a move to put her glasses on, realizing why. "You had your eyes done."
She nodded. "It was time."
Daniel drew her into his arms, hugging her. "I wish you'd told me."
"There was nothing you could do but fret, Dad," she assured. "Besides, I had Cameron."
"Yes, well," he released her. "I think Mitchell and I are going to have to have a long talk."
"Dad…"
He grinned, cutting her off. "Jack told me, kiddo, and I kind of figured it out for myself. Just remember, if he ever hurts you, I'll deal with him."
Kayla hugged him again. "I love him daddy," she whispered. "I can't promise he'll never hurt me, but I know he'd never do it intentionally."
"So do I," Daniel said, and kissed her forehead. "Remember, I just became a father, I don't want to be a grandfather so soon."
She chuckled. "Not for a while yet, I promise."
"Good."
They went out into the sitting room. Jacob lifted Ari off his knee and stood, giving the little boy's older sister a hug. "Hi, honey."
"Hi grandpa," she greeted warmly.
He cupped her face in his hands. "I have a feeling you've been waiting to call me that."
"A little," she admitted.
He kissed her forehead. "Thank you."
She hugged him again, and then moved out of the way so Sam could introduce him to his baby granddaughter.
Cameron put his hand on her back, whispering. "Told you it would work out."
She leant against him. "Yeah, you did," she said happily.
"We'll head back to our quarters and let you rest, Kayla," her father announced.
She nodded slowly. "I'll be fine, dad."
"Yes, and you're a Jackson," he commented. "Colonel, make sure she rests."
"Will do," Cameron assured.
Ari gave them both a hug and went with his grandfather, parents and baby sister. He held his grandpa's hand, telling him about Atlantis, how SG-1 had found him and Aeron, and brought them to his new mom and dad.
Jacob smiled and listened to the little boy, holding his tongue to what he wanted to say.
When they arrived at the living quarters, Ari rushed inside to play with his blocks. Sam settled Aeron in her grandfather's arms when he sat down, and joined her husband on the sofa, tucking her legs under her.
Tearing his gaze away from his baby granddaughter, Jacob questioned his daughter and new son-in-law. "Do either of you mind that my granddaughter is dating a man old enough to be her father?"
Sam rolled her eyes; she should have known her dad would bring that up. "Dad, she's old enough to make her own decisions. And I doubt at fifteen Cam was ready to be a father."
"At fifteen I'm damn sure Cameron Mitchell was no virgin honey, whether he would have been ready to be father, I have no idea. But it still doesn't cancel out the fact he is old enough to be her father."
"He loves her Jacob, and that's all that matters," Daniel said with conviction.
"Alright," Jacob gave in and then told his son-in-law. "What about regulations?"
"Jack is trying to convince the President to have them changed. The SGC and Atlantis are not normal bases, and the regs are out of date," the archaeologist explained. "You know what we deal with, Jacob."
"True," he agreed. "Is that why George is here, to see how they behave?"
"Possibly," Daniel agreed. "If anyone knows how much the regs need to be changed, it's George Hammond."
"Yes, he certainly does," Jacob agreed, "and how about you try dad, if that's okay with you?"
Daniel smiled. "It's okay, dad."
He then snorted. "Selmac likes Mitchell."
"So do you, dad," Sam said grinning.
His eyes blinked slowly and Selmac took control. "I do not see the problem Jacob is having; age should not stop two people from being in love. My last mate was much younger then I."
Daniel and Sam both found that amusing. "I think dad is just feeling old, Selmac," she mused.
"Humff, he has nothing to feel old about, he's a young pup."
Jacob took control back again. "Young pup?" he grumbled. "Insolent wind bag."
That had them both laughing again, even though Jacob frowned.
DF
Vice President George Hammond felt a bit nostalgic, and was honored to have been invited to Daniel and Sam's wedding. The Gate Room was crowded, the control room above was standing room only, and there were even people watching from the corridors, as well as the video monitors located in every room in the city. An Athosian conducted the ceremony; the bride, and groom stood before him with the bride's father; and Jack, who was acting as both the father of the groom and the best man. Air Force and Marine personnel wore their dress uniforms, the civilians were dressed in suits and gowns made in the city apparel shop, recently discovered by Dr Zelenka, much to the joy of the ladies on Atlantis.
George glanced to his left, seeing SG-1 standing together. Mitchell was standing close to his archaeologist, his arm discreetly around her waist; Kayla cradled her baby sister in her arms. They looked good together; the Lt. Colonel a dashing hero in his Class A's, Kayla in a stunning navy blue dress and matching heels.
In addition, they weren't the only couple at his wedding. Dr. Weir and Lt. Colonel Sheppard stood together, Ari being held by Sheppard, who discreetly held Weir's hand. Not far from them was Dr. Beckett, who was holding the hand of Marine Lt. Laura Cadman. And there were others, some being discreet and other's not, regulations it seemed had become rather lax at Atlantis. Not that it seemed to cause problems, so far.
Margo was standing with the Vice President; Jon and Cassie were with SG-1, and they didn't care who knew about them, as neither were military. Margo gave George a nudge, whispering. "Young love must be contagious around here."
He chuckled softly. "It seems so."
The Athosian ended his ceremonial rituals, and announced Daniel and Sam husband and wife. The archaeologist kissed his Lt. Colonel wife, as the entire city joined the people in the Gate Room, erupting in cheers and congratulations.
"Jack is right about the regulations," Margo continued as they waited for the chance to congratulate the couple. "They need to be changed." She saw George Hammond was listening. "I know I haven't been with the SGC for long, but since I have, I've come to realize the only reason why a lot of those men and women haven't gone off the deep end. It's because there is someone they can lean on when the going gets tough in these alien and terrifying worlds you visit. And I'm not just talking romantically, though I know a few relationships have started out as friends and have gotten to the point of being more. Some have crossed the line and others haven't, they're holding back and that's not healthy either."
"It's not only up to me," he reminded her.
"Then let me put it this way, George," she said with conviction. "If those regulations aren't changed, then you're going to lose a lot of good people."
He thought long and hard about that. "I believe you're right."
"That's why they pay me the big money, Mr. Vice President," she remarked with a teasing smile.
Sam and Daniel made their way over to them, hugging them both. "Thank you for being here, sir," Sam told the Vice President.
George smiled. "The honor, Samantha, is mine."
Daniel shook his hand. "Thank you, sir."
"Look after her, Daniel."
"I will, George."
The Gate Room began to empty, as those invited headed to the reception. Family gathered together for photographs in front of the Stargate; including teammates and close friends as well as family members. From there they proceeded to the reception, being formally introduced as Dr. Jackson and Lt. Colonel Carter-Jackson, which made Sam blush and Daniel beam. The afternoon went well; speeches were made, making everyone laugh as the bride and groom were embarrassed. At the end, the newlyweds were flown away by puddle-jumper to spend a few of days on the mainland at an undisclosed location, both of them reluctant to leave their daughter and son behind. Elizabeth assured them that Aeron and Ari would be fine, there were plenty of people on Atlantis willing to help out until after they returned.
Elizabeth escorted the Vice President, and the head of Stargate Command and his fiancée, back to the Gate Room. She signaled the control room operator to dial the Stargate, and turned to the group as it settled in a watery puddle.
"Thank you, Dr. Weir, this has been most memorable." George told her.
"Thank you, Mr. Vice President, it was a pleasure having you here," she said cheerfully.
"Look after my kids, Elizabeth," Jack said.
"Always, General, and I'll send SG-1 home tomorrow," she assured.
Margo gave her a hug, whispering, "Look after John, he's a keeper."
"I know," Elizabeth said softly. "You do the same with Jack."
"I will," she whispered, and as they parted, added, "Thank you for having me, Dr. Weir."
"It was a pleasure, Dr. O'Hara."
Jack took his fiancée's hand. "Come on, honey, we need to be getting home to our boy."
"We certainly do," she acknowledged.
Elizabeth smiled as they gathered their bags and waved before stepping through the Stargate, which closed down moments later. Turning she went back to the party, smiling all the way.
DF
One month later, Colonel Mitchell and the rest of SG-1 strolled up the stairs towards the briefing room. "So, are you going?"
Kayla shrugged. "I don't know."
"Oh come on, Kayla, it's your High School reunion, you've got to go. I'll be fun." Ryan urged her.
"Maybe I will go," she decided, "and take Teal'c; he can protect me."
"I would be honored, Kayla Jackson," Teal'c said, bowing his head, smiling.
"You actually need protecting, at your High School reunion?" Cameron asked her.
"Yep, from the likes of you, Colonel," she smirked.
"Funny, Jackson," he grumbled, and they laughed.
Their laughter faded, and they stopped short, as they entered the briefing room. The President of the United States stood with the Vice President and General O'Neill. They suddenly felt very self-conscious. Jack was the only one who seemed comfortable.
"Mr. President," the SGC commander gestured to his flagship team, introducing them. "This is SG-1; Lt. Colonel Cameron Mitchell, Major Ryan Michaels, Dr. Kayla Jackson, and Teal'c."
President Henry Hayes shook all their hands, except for Teal'c, who bowed his head in greeting. "It's a pleasure to meet you all, I've heard a lot about the four of you."
"We are so in trouble," Cameron whispered to his archaeologist, having to lean close to do so.
"Oh yeah," she agreed.
The President chuckled, having heard Mitchell's remark. "Why don't we sit down," he insisted. "How is your father, Dr. Jackson?"
"He's well, thank you, sir," she answered calmly. "Enjoying married life and fatherhood."
"Excellent; he's a good man. I met him once on my first visit here, and was impressed."
"Kayla takes after him, Mr. President." Jack assured.
"Yes, from what I've read and have been told, I happen to agree with you." Henry Hayes remarked, and then stated, "I've read some of the original SG-1 mission reports, and I must say, all of you, with the exception of Teal'c, have large shoes to fill."
"With all due respect, Mr. President," Kayla said straightforward, "we're not the original SG-1, we never will be. Colonel Mitchell, Major Michaels and I were chosen to be a part of SG-1 on our own abilities, not because of our association to the General, Colonel Carter or my father. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and we respect the wealth of knowledge and experience that Teal'c has to share with us. Together we've found a bond, and made SG-1 our own."
George Hammond smiled to himself, damn she was like her father. He also saw the rest of her team shared her sentiment.
Henry Hayes was impressed. "Dr. Jackson, if you weren't so important to the SGC, I'd steal you away and put you on my staff."
"The Air Force pays me a great deal to do what I do, Mr. President," she said lightly.
"She's politely telling you, you couldn't afford her, sir," Cameron pointed out.
The President laughed. "You're possibly right, Colonel."
"Sir, if I may ask…"
"Why am I here?" the President beat him to it.
"Yes sir."
"A week ago I received a lengthy report from Dr. O'Hara on the psychological stresses placed on the staff and teams of the SGC and Atlantis. She also brought to my attention certain regulations that need to be amended for this base, and our off-world bases, including Atlantis." He noticed Mitchell and Jackson glance quickly at each other. "Now from what George has told me after his visits here and Atlantis, and from the reports I've received from General O'Neill and Dr. O'Hara, Vice President Hammond and I sat down with the Joint Chief's and General Landry, and after much deliberation I have come to a conclusion – I am issuing an executive order that amends the regulations on fraternization between personnel at SGC and Atlantis." He saw their stunned expressions. "Now, with that said, if any couple cannot separate their personal life from the one they have at work, then it will be up to their commanding officer to decide the appropriate course of action. The amended regulations took effect as of 0800 this morning."
"Which means, you two," Jack wagged a finger at Mitchell and Kayla, "keep doing what you've been doing, but stuff up big time and I'll do something drastic." He saw her arch an eyebrow, and he took a deep breath. "Which would be drastic for me, because if I send you to Atlantis," he jabbed a thumb at Mitchell, "he'll just resign his commission and follow you, and then," he waved his hand at the other two, "they'll follow too."
Henry Hayes chuckled. "You have your hands full, General."
"Yes, sir, I do," he agreed. "Perhaps we should move on."
"Yes." The President became serious. "It has been decided to take the fight to Ba'al, using the Prometheus, Odyssey and the Korolev."
"Korolev?" Cameron looked from the President to his CO. "We gave the Russians a ship?"
"In turn we keep the Stargate," Kayla explained before Jack could answer. "Long story."
"Oh."
The President continued, ignoring the interruption, which he knew to be the usual banter at SGC. "General O'Neill has also briefed me on the Sangreal. While our ships take on Ba'al's forces, SG-1 will go in search of the Sangreal." He looked to Jack. "General."
"Your mission is extremely classified, so you'll Gate to a neutral planet, and from there to the planet where you've calculated the Sangreal is located."
"Why the cloak and dagger, sir?" Cameron inquired.
"Because we're not certain the symbiote controlling Colonel Caldwell was our only spy," Jack revealed. "The only people who know your true mission are in this room." He saw them glance worried at each other. "You'll depart at 0900 tomorrow as scheduled on the mission list. When you don't make your usual contact, I'll send SG-3 to search for you. When they return without you, you'll be declared MIA. From then on, you're on your own." Jack paused, he hated this, but it was the only way to keep what they were doing secret. "You'll be given a new IDC code; you are only to use this when you have the Sangreal, or you need to come home. Your SG-1 IDC codes will be locked out of the computers after twenty-four hours."
"We realize what we're asking of you," George Hammond spoke up. "But as you've pointed out, you've made SG-1 your team and we're confident you can do this."
"We will prevail." Teal'c said confidently.
The President stood, and so did everyone else. "You'll be in our prayers. I wish you a successful mission and a safe return, SG-1."
"Thank you, sir," Mitchell, Michaels and Kayla said. Teal'c bowed his head.
Jack tapped his earmic; and using the communications system they had copied from Atlantis, he called, "Odyssey, this is O'Neill, package is ready for transport."
"Acknowledged General, transporting now."
The President and Vice President were beamed away in a flash of blue-white light.
Kayla wrapped her arms around her middle in protective embrace, she felt a little sick at the prospect of what this mission was going to do to their families. "Jack, my dad, Sam…"
"I'm sorry kiddo, they can't be told."
"There has to be some way, sir," Cameron insisted. "I realize our own families can't be told, but Jackson's, they're a part of all of this."
"There must be a way, O'Neill," Teal'c stated.
"Sir, what about an encrypted message," Ryan suggested. "Instead of transmitting it, you could send someone through with it, disguised as something completely innocent. A CD perhaps."
Jack was proud the team. "All right," he approved. "I'll make sure Daniel receives the message, and knows you're all right, and the importance of keeping this a secret. And I'll do everything I can for your families as well."
"Thank you, Jack," Kayla said softly.
"Just be careful."
"We will," she promised.
DF
General Jack O'Neill turned around to face the teams and ship commanders who had been assembled in the briefing room. He'd just finished laying out the attack plan. He ordered the lights up, seeing the concern on all their faces.
"General," Lt. Alex Baker, a member of SG-3, got his attention.
"Yes, Lieutenant?"
"Sir," he asked what was on all their minds, "has there been any word of SG-1?"
Colonel Albert Reynolds, team leader of SG-3, and Jack's 2IC, was standing with his CO, and took the question. "As of 0900 this morning, SG-1 was declared MIA. Their IDC codes have been locked out of the computer."
The room broke into protests; all were willing to go search for their missing team.
Jack knew how they felt, but he couldn't reveal it was all a part of the plan. He held up his hand for silence, "I know how you all feel, and we don't know for sure if Ba'al has SG-1, or if they're even alive. What we do know is the location of Ba'al's fleet, and now is the time to take him out," he paused, seeing they were going to protest, his own 'son' confused by it all. "SG-1 is an exceptional team, but you all know, if they're in the hands of Ba'al, their fate is either death or hosts. With that in mind, you have the right to know that Colonel Mitchell, Major Michaels and Dr. Jackson all have classified wills, stating that they would rather be dead than hosts to a Goa'uld." That silenced them. "They would also want you to carry on with this mission. They'd want you to bring Ba'al down."
"Let's get the bastard!" Colonel Emerson urged and they all agreed.
Jack gave him a nod, and he returned it with confidence. "All right people," he said, getting them back on track. "SG-3 and 22 will transport aboard the Odyssey, 4 and 18 aboard the Prometheus, and 6 and 20 aboard the Korolev. Gear up and assemble in the Gate Room in twenty minutes."
"Yes, sir," was chorused and they moved out.
Jack returned to his office and sat down, running his hands over his face before sitting back in his chair. If they failed, then the consequences to Earth could be catastrophic, and if SG-1 failed and Ba'al found the Sangreal before them, then the universe could be in danger. Whichever way it stood, they needed a miracle, a damn big one.
Twenty minutes later he stood in the Gate Room, again facing the teams transporting out. They were geared up and ready to go. He knew Margo and Cassie were in the briefing room, as was Dr. Lam.
Emerson's voice came over his earmic. "We're ready to transport, General."
"Standby," he told him, then addressed his troops. "I've stood before you all on many occasions, and tried to say something profound," he paused; the seriousness of the moment brought well-remembered words to mind. "At this moment, I can think of only this, something that was said many times before by another General who commanded this base: Good luck and Godspeed." He tapped his earmic, "All ships, teams are ready to transport." The teams were transported away in flashes of light to their designated ships. "Come home safe," he whispered, and then looked at the inactive Stargate. "Bring them home, Mitchell," he said just as quietly, and then walked out of the room.
DF
Ryan walked over to Kayla, who was looking at the map she'd copied by hand. The keeper of the Village archives had refused to let her scan it with her PDA. It had taken time, but the map was an exact replica of the one still in the library back in the Village, as was the Parchment of Virtues she'd also copied, hoping it would aid them on their quest. The Parchment of Virtues was written in Ancient, but she'd translated it easily as they stood in the library:
Only those of virtue true may win the prize concealed beyond the reach of the flawed and tainted. The Sangreal shall instead belong to he who speaks the guardian's name. Prudence, wisdom, charity, kindness, and faith. Let these be your guide on this perilous quest.
The Sangreal was protected by a magical beast, a dragon, or so the keeper had told them. They weren't actually sure if it was a real dragon or not. Not yet. They'd also discovered that they weren't the only ones on the quest, Ba'al or one of his clones was three days ahead of them. They didn't give up hope though.
Their first test had been to negotiate their way through a time distortion field, where many villagers were moving very slowly, but looked frozen. Ryan had figured it out by throwing sand at the entire area, and they gotten through the maze that was clearly visible. The temporal distortions had affected the readings on their equipment, and left them blind; so they had decided to put the gadgets away for now, and rely more on their wits.
The next challenge had brought them to Ba'al himself, who was trapped within a force field, which they themselves had become trapped in. Ba'al then revealed to everyone, after Ryan and Cameron had teased him with a Power Bar, that his men had left him behind. He also revealed that he'd sent a ship to this location, but the planet wasn't visible within the solar system. Which lead him to realize that Morgan Le Fay had rendered the planet inaccessible to ships, thus ensuring the Sangreal couldn't be destroyed from space. The wooden chest, located in the center of the force field ring, was another test, one Kayla figured out. The five virtues had to be taken literally, they had negotiated the maze, displaying prudence. The chest exploited greed, and the opposite of greed was charity, so to free themselves they had to give up something. Each of them had put something in the chest, even Ba'al, after some coaching, and the force field had vanished. Now free, they'd been ready to kill, or at least secure, the Goa'uld when he revealed he knew the Guardian's name, but wouldn't tell them unless they took him along. Reluctantly they agreed.
"We're close." Kayla pointed to the mountain ahead of them, almost volcanic in appearance. To reach it, they had a good distance of open land to cross. "There, that is the last destination on the map."
"All right, let's move, good work, Jackson." Cameron ordered.
She folded the map and parchment, and handed them to Ryan, who slipped them back into his backpack. They started again, Mitchell taking point, then Michaels, Kayla, Ba'al and finally Teal'c.
Ba'al walked next to the archaeologist. "I must say, your beauty has become startling without the glasses."
She arched an eyebrow. "So I've been told, by better than you."
He chuckled. "I'm just here to help, you need me."
"Like a hole in the head," she retorted.
"You know there's more to all of this," he taunted. "Morgan Le Fay put safeguards in place to ensure the weapon could only be secured by, what was the term, those possessing truth of spirit. I can't think of anyone more appropriate than the daughter of a former Ascended."
"I think you're full of it," she snapped.
"You know I'm right," he said, ignoring her comment. "Why else would you be here."
She stopped and turned. "I'm here to get the Sangreal, and see that you don't."
Teal'c stopped behind the Goa'uld, waiting. Mitchell and Michaels had also stopped, waiting, ready for action.
Ba'al didn't budge. "The Sangreal is a powerful tool, not just a weapon. In the right hands it could do more than wipe out ascended beings."
"And you believe it belongs in your hands?" Kayla snorted. "You're more deluded than I first thought." He began to move towards her, and she brought her P-90 up to his face. "Don't, I don't care if you have the name of the protector, I will kill you without hesitation. Then we'll see just how true of spirit I am."
He held up his hands, backing down. "We should continue."
"Yes we should," she agreed, and gestured with her P-90 for him to continue past her.
They made good time, finally arriving at the entrance of the cave, where it was said the Sangreal was to be found. Cameron walked next to Kayla as they entered the darkness, the others ahead of them. He kept his voice down. "Do you have any idea what the dragon's name is?"
She chewed on her bottom lip. "Some, but I could be wrong."
"So we need to keep snakehead alive for the moment."
"Yeah," she agreed, then added, "Funny how he's been talking through his host."
"Noticed that too. Still, when they talk that way, it gives me the creeps," he admitted.
"Yeah," she whispered.
They came to an open chamber, their flashlights shining on a stone panel set into the wall with Ancient writing on it.
"Choose the way that is just and true," Kayla translated.
"A riddle?" Ryan purposed.
She nodded. "And written in Ancient, the meanings of the words are different."
They heard a noise to their left. "Did you hear that?"
"It sounds like a child crying," Teal'c announced, "this way." He headed down a tunnel passage, and they quickly followed him.
"A child in here?" Ba'al was shaking his head. "It's obviously a trap."
"Or a test," Kayla contradicted.
"Of what? Stupidity?"
She ignored him as they followed the tunnel, coming upon a child of about five. On seeing them he ran further into the tunnel, acting frightened.
"Hey kid, wait up!" Cameron yelled. They hurried after the child, going further into the cavern, and then descending a stone staircase. "Hey, slow down little guy!"
"We're walking right into a trap." Ba'al pointed out.
"No, we're not." Kayla said sternly. "The parchment provided us with clues to reaching the Sangreal. It mentioned kindness as one of the virtues that would guide us. So if we show kindness by helping this child it should bring us one step closer to the device."
"The parchment also mentioned wisdom, which we would be demonstrating by avoiding this trap," Ba'al mumbled.
They heard what could only be recognized as an iron gate being dropped by chains. Rushing down the stairs, they found the little boy trapped in a cell, huddled, frightened and crying.
"Hang on kid, we'll get you out of there," Cameron assured him. He, Ryan and Teal'c all tried to lift the gate. Cameron turned back and glared at Ba'al. "A little help here!"
"He's tiny; tell him to squeeze through the bars."
Kayla turned her P-90 on him. "Help, or we'll squeeze you through the bars."
Ba'al shrugged and gave a hand, as she did. Lifting together, they managed to move the grate upward a meter. The little boy smiled and then disappeared, as did the back of the cave, revealing another passageway. Everyone dropped the grate, and continued watching Ba'al.
"Well how about that," Cameron said, with a touch of sarcasm for Ba'al's benefit, "we picked the right way."
Glaring at him, Ba'al followed them down the tunnel. They walked until they came to what appeared to be a dead end. Cameron stated the obvious, "It's a dead end."
"We have to go back," Ba'al told them, a little bored by it all.
"No," Ryan replied as he shook his head. "It doesn't make any sense, why would we have progressed this far only to come up empty?" His flashlight lit up another stone tablet. "Kayla."
She walked over to the tablet Ryan had found and began to read, "It's another riddle. I'm struck and cut, shaped and cooled, then bound by rings to release what's stored."
The cave started to rumble and shake, showering them with dust.
"You might want to pick things up a little bit, here," Cameron told her, a little concerned, and saw her frown at him. Then the two of them realized the answer at the same time, yelling as the rumbling became louder. "Keys!"
Kayla repeated the word, but in Ancient, "Clavia!"
The wall melted away and they rushed through, though the rumbling didn't stop. They did, however, find another stone panel. Quickly Kayla translated it, having to raise her voice to be heard. "I shake the earth with booming thunder, fell forests whole and homes complete! I influence ships, topple kings, sweep down swift, yet remain unseen!"
"Wind!" Teal'c figured it out.
"Ventio!" she yelled in Ancient.
The wall dissolved, and they rushed through into another tunnel, going up a set of stairs. The rumbling began getting louder, and it seemed that it wasn't going to abate. They soon come across another panel. "Ah, for crying out loud!" Cameron exclaimed, making his team chuckle, despite their desperate plight.
"Battle-scarred in times of strife. Resistant to… resistant to…" Kayla's voice faded.
"To what?" Ryan asked her.
"Umm, I don't know. I… I can't translate this section of the text."
"Contagia!" Ba'al yelled out, a touch of fear to his voice, making them all look at him. The wall disappeared and the rumbling stopped.
"Looks like that's done it," Cameron declared as they entered the new tunnel. They walked for a little while when Cameron commented, "Is it just me, or is it getting hot in here?"
"Now you mention it, sir," Ryan started, but didn't finish as they arrived at a chamber where a wall of fire blocked their path.
"Just a tad toasty," the Colonel commented, and made a decision. "All right, Michaels, you and Teal'c backtrack and see if there is another way around. Jackson and I will see if the chamber holds any secrets."
"And me?" Ba'al asked.
"You stay here; if you leave, we'll hunt you down and shoot you," he said bluntly and then went further into the chamber with Kayla.
Ryan and Teal'c ignored the Goa'uld and backtracked.
Searching the chamber turned unproductive, and it just made Cameron and Kayla sweating hot.
"Hey, you got anything?" he asked her.
"No, you?"
"No, but I'm gettin' a good tan," he smirked and decided. "Come on, let's take a break."
She nodded. "Okay."
They walked back to where they'd left Ba'al, surprised to find him still there, searching the walls for panels or writings.
"There are no hidden triggers or secret passages," Cameron announced. "If there's a way out, we didn't find it."
"Then I suppose we should head back," the Goa'uld told them.
Ryan and Teal'c returned, overhearing the suggestion. "Not an option," the Major revealed. "The passageways have resealed behind us."
"Then I was right," Ba'al grumbled angrily. "We walked into a trap."
"No," Kayla shook her head. "We made all the right choices to lead us to this point. I know the Sangreal lies beyond that wall of fire. We just have to find a way through."
The Goa'uld crossed his arms against his chest. "And perhaps I was wrong about you."
Cameron drew his weapon up, pointing it at him. "And maybe we really don't need you that badly."
Ba'al held his hands up, yielding.
Kayla thought it through, running the translation of the parchment repeatedly in her mind. Until. "It's the only one," she said to herself, and walked straight towards the wall of flame.
"Jackson!" Cameron called, just before Ryan yelled, "Kayla!"
They all hurried after her as she stood in front of the wall of flame. Without warning, she walked into the fire, and suddenly it dissipated, revealing her standing unharmed in a large tunnel.
Cameron walked over to her as she turned to them. "Don't do that again," he snarled softly. His anger covering his fear.
"Sorry," she whispered back.
They followed the tunnel to a cavern, Kayla in the lead. They could see a narrow walkway over an abyss, joining up with a wide platform that contained two stone structures. On a pedestal sat a glowing red object.
"There it is," Ba'al exclaimed excitedly. "We found it. Ours for the taking."
"Hang on," Cameron warned, calming everyone down. He picked up a rock and tossed it over the edge into the abyss; there was no sound of it hitting the bottom. "Yeah, it's pretty deep."
They looked at the footbridge to the platform, where the Sangreal sat on its dais; the hesitation was real.
"I'll go," Kayla said finally.
"I think I'll stay here and support you from a distance," Ba'al said, his bravado gone.
"We should all go." Cameron stated.
"No!" Kayla shook her head and looked at him, "I think it would be best if I went alone."
He began to protest, but the look in her eyes make him stop. Trust was a valuable part of a relationship. He'd trusted her when she was his teammate and friend. Now he had to trust her as his lover too. "All right, but be careful."
She gave him a smile and holding her P-90, with its flashlight to guide her, walked carefully out onto the footbridge. Behind her, Cameron, Ryan, and Teal'c looked on worriedly. She went slowly, being careful where she put her feet, making it to the platform. She moved closer to the structures, noting that one held a diamond-shaped blue stone on it, surrounded by Ancient writing. In front of it on the lower dais rested the glowing red Sangreal. She shone her flashlight on it, pondering her next move. She didn't even know what she was going to do with it when she had it.
Cameron was getting a little on edge. "What's the holdup?" he called out.
She looked up and frowned, and then taking a step forward, she reached out to take the Sangreal. Her hand passed right through it! That startled her for a moment. "Well I guess I'm not as true of spirit as everyone thought I was," she muttered.
They heard the sound of grinding metal and stone, after which dust fell from the cave onto the team.
"Jackson, move it!" Cameron yelled.
She dashed across the footbridge, joining her team. They tried to leave, but their way out was blocked. They were trapped, looking around in confusion as they heard another noise.
"What the hell is that?" The Colonel asked them all.
It sounded like a large set of flapping wings.
"We agree there's no such thing as a dragon, right?" Kayla wanted to know.
"Yeah," he agreed and the other's nodded.
"Just checking," she said. Startled, they stood with weapons pointed at the abyss as a large dragon beast flew towards them, and then hovered above them, its wings beating the air, as it hissed at them.
"Well, it damn well looks real to me," she commented.
"No shit!" Cameron retorted as they scattered on the narrow cliff face, dodging out of the way as the dragon breathed a ball of fire at them.
DF
To Be Continued…