Thank you again to Mel for her proofreading.
I hope you'll enjoy this new chapter :)
Everything seemed larger, more vibrant. The ceiling lights gleamed brighter than usual, and the shelves appeared to stretch endlessly high. People in uniforms moved swiftly, their movements somewhat peculiar. Amidst it all, my parents' faces remained the same, a stable point in the chaos.
Dad, with his general's insignia sparkling in an almost hypnotic way, exchanged glances with Mom. She seemed both absorbed in her work and surprisingly serene.
"Be good. Stay close to Captain Miller, alright?" she murmured with a voice that seemed to come from another world, before placing a gentle and reassuring kiss on my forehead. I instinctively looked up and was met with Captain Miller's intense gaze.
This woman, with her slender figure, embodied every ounce of discipline that military training can instill. Her short black hair framed a face with delicate features, marked by deep brown eyes that contrasted with her fair skin. She wore her uniform with an elegance and precision that left no room for criticism. Her confidence was soothing, and she smiled at me with eyes full of warmth.
As my parents turned away, everything seemed to slow down. The temptation was too strong. The hallways, with distorted perspectives, beckoned to me. The doors had strange proportions, some tiny, others gigantic.
An irresistible wave of adrenaline surged through me, causing my heart to race uncontrollably. Without much thought, I propelled myself forward, inexorably drawn by the promise of freedom. The sounds of my feet on the floor echoed loudly.
Suddenly, a shadow appeared in front of me. At first glance, it seemed like a soldier. But upon closer inspection, his face bore features I didn't recognize. His salute, graceful, had the fluidity of an underwater dance, lending an unreal quality to the scene.
Captain Miller's voice, both gentle and distant, called out to me through the hallways, almost pleading. Was it time to return to reality or to plunge even deeper into this adventure?
My hands were eager to touch every surface, every texture. The hallways seemed to stretch endlessly, with shimmering lights and sounds emanating from all sides. Everything was so new, so fascinating.
One hallway opened up into a small room, illuminated by strange, pulsating blue stones. They emitted a gentle melody that reminded me of lullabies Mom would sing sometimes. I reached out to touch one, but before I could grasp it, the stone soared into the air, leaving behind a luminous trail.
Laughing, I continued on my way, encountering people whose faces were familiar but slightly blurry. Some crouched down to offer me a smile or try to embrace me, but I always slipped out of their reach, my feet carrying me as fast as possible.
At the end of a hallway, a half-open door revealed an immense room with a seemingly endless table. Curious, I entered, relishing the feeling as my feet sank into the space. But just as I was about to dive into play, I heard a familiar voice echo.
"What are you doing here?"
It was Dad's voice, with a hint of concern mixed in with his usual authoritative tone. In a reflex, I slid under the table, hoping the shadows would conceal me, but the sound of his approaching footsteps quickened.
I stole a quick glance between the chair legs and saw Dad meticulously scanning every corner of the room. As I tried to huddle further, I clumsily stumbled over an object on the floor.
His eyes locked onto me, a mixture of relief and amusement lighting up his face. "There you are, my little explorer," he murmured as he approached.
He crouched down and reached out his arms towards me. Without hesitation, I ran to him, seeking refuge in my father's reassuring embrace. His laughter vibrated against my cheek as he lifted me into the air.
"Turning 14 months tomorrow, and already a little adventurer! What are we going to do with you, Victor?" he said softly while rocking me. In the gentle comfort of his arms, everything suddenly felt more peaceful, more tranquil. I felt my eyelids grow heavy as the sounds and lights of the base gradually faded away.
The world around me suddenly changed. The comforting and familiar presence of my father gave way to a dark, almost apocalyptic landscape. The ground was covered in debris and ashes, the surrounding structures in ruins, as if a colossal force had swept everything in its path.
Distant cries and sobs pierced the oppressive silence, adding a note of despair to this devastated scene. I felt a strange sensation, as if I were both a witness and a participant in this unfolding drama.
My father lay on the ground, seemingly unconscious. He still held me tightly, as if trying to protect me, even in this state. His hands felt so cold, so lifeless. Fear crept into me, a visceral and profound fear.
I leaned in closer to him, trying to see his face, to understand what was happening. Beside us, Mom was there, kneeling, her hair disheveled, her blue eyes filled with tears, staring at someone in the distance.
I turned in the direction of her gaze and saw a man I didn't know. He was crying, his pain palpable, even contagious. Every cell in my body wanted to scream, escape, flee this reality. But I couldn't move, as if I were trapped in it.
Not far from him, adding to the strangeness of the scene, a massive blue ring radiated with intense light. The swirling motion of the vortex seemed to suck in everything nearby, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The air vibrated around it, and sounds were muffled, as if absorbed by this mystical energy. The man and that enigmatic ring were inexorably linked, adding to the confusion of my emotions.
My father's body, my mother's tears, the sobs of that unknown man, everything felt so real, so poignant.
Then, subtly, a sense of detachment began to creep in. It was as if I was floating, no longer at the center of this environment, but gradually moving away from it.
The edges of my reality became less distinct, the sound of my own breath became the only connection tying me to this nightmare.
Suddenly, an oppressive sensation took hold of me. The world started to spin, colors merged, and the sound became deafening.
And then... Everything turned black.
Victor abruptly woke up, his labored breathing disturbing the silence of his room. The reality of being sixteen hit him quickly. He was sitting at his desk in his bedroom, scattered sheets of paper and a pen in his hand. He realized he had been working on an assignment. Beads of sweat dotted his forehead, his eyes reflecting a mixture of terror and confusion. His hands trembled slightly as he regained his composure, attempting to push away the disturbing images from that dream.
It wasn't the first time. For several months, this dream had recurred relentlessly. Always the same scenario, the same emotions, the same images. Over and over again, like a looped film he couldn't break free from, an obsession haunting him, disrupting his daily life. Each time, he hoped it would be the last, but the dream returned, tirelessly.
Victor's phone, placed next to his scattered notebooks, suddenly vibrated, interrupting his thoughts. His fingers, still trembling from the emotions of the dream, hesitated for a moment before picking up the device and reading the message displayed on the screen: "Hey, buddy! Where are you? You missed practice again!"
It was Max, his hockey teammate and one of his closest friends. Victor furrowed his brow, then glanced up at the small vintage clock on his dresser. The hands indicated that he had slept much longer than he had anticipated. A wave of guilt washed over him as he thought about the missed practice, his team, and the collective efforts.
He set the phone down with a sigh, running a tired hand over his sweaty forehead. Lately, his sleep had been chaotic, disrupted by that recurring dream. The accumulated fatigue was beginning to weigh heavily on his shoulders.
With a heavy sigh, he stretched, feeling each vertebra in his back gently crack. His sore muscles protested against the prolonged inactivity. Pushing his scattered notebooks with his fingertips, he stood up, his gait a bit unsteady. Every step out of his room was an attempt to distance himself from the grip of those relentless images that haunted him incessantly.
In a large conference room at the Pentagon, screens displayed complex charts and satellite images. At the front row, Jack, dressed in his impeccably tailored General's uniform, cast distracted glances around him, his fingers impatiently tapping on the arm of his chair. Next to him, Sam, absorbed in the presented data, was taking notes.
"I bet even a discussion with Teal'c about the intricacies of Jaffa meditation would be more captivating than this," Jack muttered.
Sam sighed, her eyes locked on the screen. "Jack, please, focus. I'm trying to keep up."
"But I am focused... on all the things I'd rather be doing than being here," Jack retorted, his eyes scanning the room for an escape route. "Do you think they'd notice if we made a discreet getaway?"
A sly smile curved on Sam's lips. "Don't tell me you're seriously considering skipping the presentation on alternate time streams?"
Jack let out an amused groan. "Oh, of course, I've been eagerly waiting for it!"
Sam couldn't help but smile wider, her eyes sparkling with amusement. Despite the years they had spent together, she still found herself charmed by his carefree attitude and humor, even in the most solemn of situations.
When the lecturer's final words resonated in the room, a round of crisp applause followed, along with a hubbub of conversations and comments exchanged among the participants. Whispers of appreciation mingled with bursts of laughter and the serious notes of post-conference discussions.
The guests then gathered in an adjoining room for a cocktail reception. The room, illuminated by soft lights, exuded a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Long tables were carefully set, adorned with white tablecloths and filled with delicious appetizers and colorful bite-sized treats. Impeccably dressed servers weaved their way through the crowd, carrying trays of sparkling punch in silver cups. The lively voices, animated by enthusiastic discussions and shared anecdotes, filled the air.
Jack delicately picked up two glasses and navigated through the crowd, looking for Sam, who was deeply engaged in conversation with a few officers and Daniel Jackson. When he reached the small group, he offered Sam one of the glasses, which she took with a grateful smile.
"Fascinating conference, isn't it?" Jack quipped, his tone tinged with irony, while giving Daniel a friendly pat on the shoulder.
With a sly smile, Daniel retorted, "What's truly fascinating, Jack, is that you haven't left before it ended."
Sam let out a discreet laugh. After a brief moment, she checked the time on her watch, realizing it was getting late. Her attention then turned to her handbag, an elegant black leather model adorned with discreet yet sophisticated details. She carefully opened it to retrieve a smartphone, its spacious screen glowing in the ambient light.
"I'll send a message to the kids, telling them not to wait for us for dinner," she murmured, skillfully swiping her fingers across the screen, quickly typing a message. "I'll suggest they order some pizzas."
At that very moment, Jack let his gaze wander through the crowd. After making sure that Daniel was engrossed in another conversation, he discreetly approached Sam, who was finishing sending her message.
He came close enough that their bodies barely brushed, and the warmth of his breath grazed Sam's ear as he whispered, "How about we escape all of this? An evening just for the two of us... We could find a little restaurant, far from this hustle and bustle, and maybe even spend the night in a hotel." His voice took on a hint of mischief, inviting Sam to share this moment of escape.
As the words escaped his lips, Jack's hand traced a tender and deliberate path on Sam, sliding with calculated gentleness from the slenderness of her waist to linger on the delicate curve of her back. Each brush of his fingers seemed to whisper silent promises.
With sparkling eyes, but a hint of hesitation, Sam responded, "And the kids, what do we tell them?" She was clearly drawn to the idea but concerned about the practical details.
Jack wore a sly smile. "Just tell them that Daniel kidnapped us, and it's a great opportunity for them to enjoy the peace and quiet at home." He inched closer, his lips almost grazing her ear. "And if you're worried they'll protest, promise them a bonus: a full day of fishing. We both know they won't be able to resist that."
Sam chuckled softly, biting her lip as if weighing the options. "Oh, Jack," she began, her voice filled with amusement, "you know how much I'd love that, just the two of us, away from it all. But lately, I've noticed that Victor looks really exhausted. He doesn't talk about it, but I can tell. Something's been on his mind; I can see it in his eyes. I want to be home tonight, I'd like to talk to him about it."
She gently placed her hand on Jack's cheek, softly caressing his skin. "But promise," she added with a wink, "we'll take an evening for ourselves very soon."
Jack let out a feigned sigh, but he couldn't hide the smile of the understanding father forming on his face. "Okay," he conceded, "But that promise, I'll make sure you keep it."
Sam's face lit up with a mischievous smile. "You know I always keep my promises," she replied, playing with his tie, tugging it slightly to draw him closer.
Their foreheads touched, and for a moment, they forgot the commotion of the cocktail party around them.
A few streets away, a grand house stood proudly, surrounded by a beautifully manicured garden. Its white walls reflected the warm colors of the twilight, giving the place an atmosphere that was both peaceful and festive. The golden light of the setting sun streamed through the large windows, creating soft, dancing shadows inside the mansion.
In the garden, a series of string lights stretched from one tree to another, creating an artificial starry sky above an area where teenagers bustled around tables laden with snacks and drinks. Joyful laughter and excited cries filled the air, while music played from speakers, setting a lively mood.
Inside, the house exuded a welcoming warmth. The refined wooden furniture, thick plush carpets, and carefully chosen artworks spoke of the impeccable taste of its owners. In the spacious living room, a group of teenagers had gathered around the sofa, engrossed in lively conversation.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, one young girl stood out distinctly. At fourteen years old, she exuded remarkable presence. Her slender figure was accentuated by a light summer dress. Her blonde hair framed a face where serenity melded with a sparkling vivacity. Her large, intensely bright blue eyes scanned the room with confidence, reflecting natural intelligence and curiosity.
But it wasn't just her confidence that made her magnetic. Her face, beyond its beauty, had an enigmatic quality that made anyone who crossed her path want to know more about her. Her smile, radiant and infectious, revealed slight dimples that added a youthful charm, contrasting with the maturity that could be seen in her eyes.
While chatting with a group of friends, she sipped her soda, the glass slightly cool against her skin. Every gesture, every word, betrayed self-assuredness, mixed with a subtle mystery that made Stella a fascinating figure in the eyes of all.
"Stella! Come on, let's play a game of 'Truth or Dare'!" called out one of her friends, interrupting her thoughts.
Just as she took a few steps to join her friend, the familiar sensation of a vibration in her pocket stopped her in her tracks. She took out her phone, and the screen lit up, revealing a new message. As she read the few lines, a slight smile brightened her face. The prospect of an evening without the reassuring but sometimes overwhelming presence of her parents thrilled her, and the bonus of pizza only added to her excitement.
While sending a brief "ok, mom" in response, Stella tucked her phone back into her pocket and walked decisively toward the French doors. The waning afternoon light bathed the garden, where laughter and cheers blended with the scents of flowers and freshly cut grass. The air was warm, a gentle caress that contrasted with the excitement of the party inside.
Stella scanned the garden with confident eyes, searching for a particular person among the scattered groups of teenagers. She passed by the table laden with cakes, drinks, and snacks and grabbed a piece of candy on the way to briefly satisfy her sweet tooth. Then, she walked alongside the pool, its water reflecting the late-day lights. Her blue eyes were determined, eager to find that person as quickly as possible.
Approaching the pool, Stella heard bursts of laughter and cheerful exclamations. A small group of friends had gathered, holding glasses of soda and shouting encouragement towards the glistening water. Curious, she looked to see what was drawing so much attention. Splashes erupted periodically, as if someone was performing aquatic stunts.
She made her way through the circle of friends, trying to discern the swimmer's silhouette. The ripples of light on the water disrupted her vision, making it difficult to see clearly. She placed her hand on the shoulder of a young man to get his attention.
"Lucas," she called out, a hint of impatience in her voice, "have you seen James by any chance?"
Lucas, with his tousled brown hair, turned towards her, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Ah, Stella! You're just in time!" he exclaimed, a wide grin stretching across his lips.
She squinted, curious. "Why?"
Unable to contain his laughter, Lucas pointed to the pool. "James bet that he could swim ten laps of the pool underwater. We're taking bets on which lap he's going to crack and come up for air."
Frustration was evident on Stella's face. Her twin brother, James, had always had this incessant need to push boundaries, and once again, he had done it in front of all their friends. She didn't have the patience to wait for him to complete his aquatic challenge.
As James swam nearby, she took the opportunity to grab him firmly by the arm and hoist him out of the water with surprising determination for her stature. The splashes and protests of the teenager blended with the laughter of some of their friends.
"Hey! What are you doing?" protested James, dripping wet and taken aback. "I was this close to breaking my record!"
"Don't you have anything better to do?!" retorted Stella, her arms crossed.
James flopped heavily onto the poolside, sighing loudly and rolling his light brown eyes. As he pushed himself up, his athletic frame, quite remarkable for a fourteen-year-old, was evident. He already towered over many of his friends. His wet, dark blond hair clung to his forehead and temples. Whenever he flashed a smile, even when annoyed, subtle dimples softened his features, making him even more charming.
Guiding James away from the group with determined energy, Stella led him to a secluded spot near an old tree whose leaves provided discreet shelter. Her eyes were immediately drawn to the gleam of the bracelet adorning her brother's wrist. It was a unique piece, made of small blue stones that sparkled with their own light, reminiscent of the mysterious depths of the ocean.
"You were trying to beat your record by cheating?" she asked, indignation clear in her voice as she pointed at the bracelet.
James put on a falsely innocent expression, his smile betraying a hint of mischief. "I just wanted to test it, see if it could really help me stay underwater longer. Just a little experiment."
"If Dad catches you with it, he's going to kill you," Stella replied, looking furious. "This bracelet is not a toy. You should know that. Should I remind you what happened the last time you used it?! And how did you even get your hands on it? It's supposed to be securely locked in the safe."
James raised an eyebrow, provocation evident in his gaze. "The parents' safe? That's some secure hiding spot! The code is their wedding date; a two-year-old could have figured it out."
Stella clenched her teeth, barely containing a sharp retort. She took a deep breath, trying to master her irritation. "It's time to go home, James. This bracelet needs to be returned to its rightful place."
James let out a heavy sigh, his features etched with frustration. "I'm tired of you always playing the guardian. You really don't know how to have fun." His shoulders slumped slightly, showing a rare weariness in him.
The two teenagers left the party, leaving behind the laughter and music. The twilight light tinted the sky with a soft orange hue as they walked toward their house. The summer breeze caressed their faces, carrying the scent of grilled food and nighttime flowers. The silence between them was heavy, only broken by the sound of their footsteps on the pavement.
They eventually reached their home. The calmness inside sharply contrasted with the buzz of the party they had just left. A delicate vanilla scent, a remnant of a recently extinguished candle, filled the room. Stella walked purposefully to the kitchen and rummaged through the drawer of takeout menus. Her fingers found the pizzeria's flyer, and she quickly looked up the number to place an order.
James, on the other hand, cautiously climbed the stairs towards his brother's room. He still remembered the awkward incident when he had caught Victor and Chloe, his girlfriend, kissing. He had promised himself to always check in the future. Arriving at the door, he listened attentively. Nothing. So, he gently knocked to announce his presence.
"Victor? Are you there? And most importantly, are you alone?" he joked, hoping to avoid another uncomfortable situation.
The silence that greeted him didn't bode well. Slowly, with some apprehension, James cracked the door open. The room was empty, with no sign of recent occupation.
A sense of worry briefly gripped James before he pushed the thought aside. After all, the house was large, and Victor could be anywhere. He continued his search, passing through the living room, the kitchen, and even the master bedroom, but Victor seemed to have vanished.
He was about to check the garden when a faint light from his mother's study caught his attention. The door was slightly ajar, allowing a dim glow to seep through. James approached cautiously, aware of their parents' strict prohibition regarding this room. The study was Sam's sanctuary, where she kept her most sensitive work-related materials.
Casting a cautious glance inside, he discovered Victor, seated at the desk, eyes fixed on a peculiar object resembling a crystal sphere. Beside him, a laptop screen displayed a series of complex equations. The documents scattered across the desk were filled with handwritten notes, diagrams, and formulas.
"Victor! What are you doing here? You know we're not supposed to go in there!" James exclaimed, surprise mingling with concern.
Victor, still absorbed in the object, murmured in a hoarse voice, "I know... I know. But I absolutely have to sort this out, or I'll go crazy!"
James, growing increasingly worried, approached cautiously. "What are you talking about?"
Finally raising his eyes, Victor locked them onto his brother's, revealing a deep determination. "It's complicated. You wouldn't understand."
Arms crossed, James stood his ground. "Try anyway."
Faced with his younger brother's persistence, Victor took a deep breath, as if gathering his thoughts. "I've been having a recurring nightmare for months, always the same. It's as if I'm trapped in this specific moment of my life."
James attempted a bit of humor, hoping to lighten the mood, "Don't tell me you're having visions again? Is Grandpa still reaching out to you from beyond?"
Victor shook his head, his features marked by deep fatigue. "No, James. It's not Grandpa this time. It's something from my own past that I can't shake."
Curious, James noticed the strange object Victor was handling out of the corner of his eye. "And this artifact? Where did it come from?"
Victor sighed, placing the object with extreme care on the desk. "It's one of the findings from the SGC that Mom brought back. I've been secretly examining it for a few weeks. According to my research and the notes I've deciphered, this object possesses an unprecedented power: it allows time travel."
Worry overcame James, sending a shiver down his spine. "Wait a minute. You're not seriously considering... using it, are you?"
Victor's gaze was determined, almost stubborn. "I have to. This nightmare haunts me every night. I feel like there's something I need to understand."
James chuckled nervously, "So, what's the plan? Witness the Cubs winning the championship and bring the trophy back to Dad?"
Victor smiled briefly before becoming serious again. "I intend to go back in time to the day before my 14th month."
James widened his eyes. "That's a very specific date. What's so important about that moment?" His voice trembled as he realized the time period Victor was referring to. "Wait a minute! It's just before the major catastrophe that almost destroyed the Earth! Do you understand the risks of such a decision?"
"I'm aware of the risks, James. I just plan to observe, understand what happened that day. I won't touch anything, I won't change anything." Victor looked at the artifact, gently caressing its surface.
But James didn't seem convinced. "And what if, even unintentionally, you disrupt the course of events? Even the smallest intervention could have disastrous consequences. Not to mention Stella and me, at that time, we weren't even born yet. Every action could jeopardize our existence."
Victor stared intensely at James, an unusual seriousness in his gaze. "I understand your concerns, really. But something in me tells me I have to do this. That it's crucial. I promise to be careful."
Victor extended his right arm, revealing a bracelet that sparkled despite the darkness of the office. "I won't be defenseless." The deeply embedded red beads seemed to absorb all the surrounding light.
At the sight of the object, James's eyes widened in surprise. "The bracelet of Hades... You managed to get it..."
Victor gave a playful pout. "Some things are better hidden than others."
James then grinned widely and raised his arm. He pulled up the sleeve of his t-shirt, revealing a bracelet of vibrant blue. The stones seemed to be made of water, a deep blue reminiscent of the ocean. "It seems you're not the only one rummaging through the vaults."
Victor flashed a big smile, and they both burst into warm and conspiratorial laughter.
James's light brown eyes conveyed deep concern as he tried in vain to hide it behind a calm facade. He sighed heavily, nervously running a hand through his unruly locks as he attempted to gather his thoughts. "I never thought I'd say this... but if you're really determined to do it, I'm coming with you."
Victor's features tensed slightly, betraying him. His deep blue eyes seemed troubled, torn between the pros and cons. "It wasn't planned this way. I'm not sure if it's a good idea."
James lifted his chin, his gaze filled with fierce determination. "It's non-negotiable. I'm coming!"
The spirited conversation between the two brothers was suddenly interrupted by the characteristic sound of footsteps gradually drawing closer. The creaking of the old wooden floor and the echo of the wooden stairs indicated that someone was ascending. Soon, Stella's voice, somewhat distant but clearly recognizable, could be heard. Her intonations, although diffuse, conveyed a mix of impatience and amusement. "Where are you guys? I need to know what you want on your pizzas!" Her voice was getting closer, a sign that she was almost at their door.
The familiar voice of Stella echoed in their ears, quickening their heartbeats. In an almost mechanical reflex, Victor grabbed the temporal artifact resting beside him. In one fluid motion, he seized James's arm and pressed a specific part of the bracelet of Hades he was wearing.
A cold, tingling sensation enveloped their skin as a thin film surrounded them, gradually rendering them nearly translucent. In a matter of seconds, the two brothers had become almost imperceptible, blending with the natural shadows in the room and the reflections of the objects around them. In this camouflage, they waited, holding their breath, hoping that Stella wouldn't notice anything unusual in the office.
The teenager entered the room, the light illuminating her intrigued face. Her eyes quickly scanned the area, searching for signs of presence. She held the pizzeria menu tightly, waving it slightly as if trying to get their attention.
"James? Victor?" she called out, her tone reflecting her confusion. "I could've sworn I heard you..."
She proceeded cautiously, each step deliberate, toward the desk. The faint echo of the chair they had knocked over and the subtle rush of air from the open window testified to their recent presence. She crouched slightly, as if expecting to find them hiding under the desk. But everything was silent. The confusion in her eyes turned into restrained concern.
Resigned, she headed for the exit, turning off the light and carefully closing the door behind her. The sound of her footsteps gradually faded down the hallway as she continued searching for them, softly calling their names, wondering where they could have vanished.
With a firm grip on James's arm, Victor quickly guided him through the hallways of the house. The slimness of the bracelet of Hades, barely visible under Victor's sleeve, granted them flawless invisibility. Although shielded by this magic, the risk of betraying their presence through an awkward movement or an untimely noise was ever present.
The old wooden floorboards creaked slightly under their hurried steps. They advanced cautiously, trying to minimize every sound, every vibration that could give away their presence. Victor cast brief and calculated glances around him, looking for signs of Stella or other family members who might be nearby.
The tension was palpable. Every closed door, every curtain that moved due to a gentle breeze seemed like a potential threat. They were getting closer to the back exit, the goal was clear: to leave the house discreetly, avoid being seen or heard, and above all, not to arouse suspicion.
Once outside, under the canopy of a starry sky, the two brothers took a deep breath, savoring the coolness of the night. James, casting furtive glances around them, murmured with perceptible concern, "What do we do now?"
Victor, his eyes now filled with determination, replied in a low and steady voice, "We stay invisible, we head to the Stargate. We'll go back in time from there."
The mention of the SGC base sent a shiver down James' spine. It was a place they knew well, once a secret military base, now known to all but heavily guarded. He took a deep breath, aware of the challenges ahead. "Okay, but I'm telling you, at the first sign of danger, we turn back."
Victor nodded in acknowledgment, touched by his brother's solidarity. Together, they made their way to the nearest airport. The prospect of boarding a plane while enveloped in invisibility filled them with a mixture of excitement and palpable apprehension. It was an adventure that promised to be as thrilling as it was risky.
Upon arriving at the airport, the first challenge was the crowd. Despite their invisibility, they didn't want to cause panic by bumping into anyone.
"We'll avoid rush hour next time," James muttered, sidestepping a luggage cart that nearly rolled over his feet.
Getting through security was a real ordeal. The beeping noise of metal detectors, the buzz of body scanners, and the monotone voice of agents announcing directives all formed a stressful cacophony. James eyed the lines snaking toward the security gates and whispered anxiously, "How on earth are we going to pass through those body scanners without being seen?"
Victor sported a mischievous smile while scanning the surroundings. "Look over there," he whispered, pointing at a particularly loud group of tourists. They stood out from the crowd: garish-colored t-shirts, oversized straw hats, and imposing cameras hanging from their necks. Their boisterous laughter, exaggerated poses in front of their smartphones, and animated discussion about the wonders they had discovered made them almost comical.
"That's our perfect cover," Victor confided with a complicit wink.
They took advantage of the excitement created by these tourists to discreetly slip into their wake, mirroring their movements but always keeping a sufficient distance to avoid an unfortunate collision. Every gesture was calculated, every step weighed, like tightrope circus artists, measuring each movement with precision.
As the group approached the scanners, one of the tourists, a woman with a flamboyant hat, suddenly shouted while raising her water bottle, complaining that she had forgotten to empty it. The ensuing commotion, with security agents approaching to handle the situation, provided the perfect opportunity. Riding this wave of chaos, the two brothers managed to pass through the scanners without being detected.
Once on the other side, they exchanged triumphant looks, relief and pride evident in their eyes.
Finding a way to board the plane without a ticket turned out to be less complicated than they had initially thought. They waited until the last group of passengers was boarding and then slipped in behind an airline staff member.
Inside the plane, a soft glow emanated from the lights beneath the overhead compartments. The air was scented with a combination of coffee aromas, various perfumes, and the distinct fresh airplane scent. Victor and James, still under the cloak of invisibility, navigated cautiously between rows of seats, trying to avoid passengers moving about with their carry-on luggage.
Finding a discreet opening at the back of the cabin, they positioned themselves near the restroom. It was far from ideal. As soon as the plane had taken off, a line was already forming. Passengers, standing, were trying to patiently wait—some lost in their phone screens, while others, with absent expressions, let their eyes wander over the textured surface of the ceiling. The continuous bustling of passengers in this area added an extra layer of complexity to their impromptu camouflage.
As they stood in the shadows, trying to blend in, a woman in a polka-dot dress and towering heels appeared to be growing increasingly impatient. Her foot tapped nervously on the floor, and her wide eyes betrayed her urgency. James and Victor exchanged an alert glance, realizing the delicate situation at hand. They needed to move to avoid an accident, but the space was cramped.
The woman, carried away by her impatience, abruptly opened the door to the nearest restroom. The door slammed forcefully into Victor. He felt the sharp sting of pain wash over him. On reflex, he brought his hand to his mouth, trying to stifle an involuntary cry. Removing his hand, he noticed a trace of blood; he had bitten his lip so hard that it was bleeding. The metallic taste of blood filled his mouth as he struggled to regain his composure.
James, witnessing the scene, stifled a laugh, covering his mouth with his hand, his amused eyes meeting Victor's exasperated ones. The two brothers quickly slipped away, attempting to compose themselves.
Then came the moment when a sharply dressed businessman hurried toward the restroom. Sensing his urgency, the two brothers quickly moved out of his way. However, in their haste, James stumbled over a nearby service cart, causing a soda can to roll directly toward the stranger. The can came to a stop right in front of the man's gleaming shoes.
The man came to a sudden halt, looking around perplexed. "What...?" he muttered as he picked up the can. After a moment of contemplation, he shrugged with an amused expression and continued on his way. Victor, relieved, shot James a reproachful yet amused look.
The situation took a comical turn when, among the passengers, a young and infatuated couple rose from their seats. With mischievous smiles and sparkling eyes, they made their way through the line, discreetly heading for the small space behind the restrooms. Their hushed whispers and stifled laughter made their intentions abundantly clear.
Victor and James, although concealed, suddenly felt uncomfortable. In a desperate attempt to distance themselves, they got up hurriedly, their feet getting tangled up as they tripped over each other. They ended up facing the back of a seat.
Despite their delicate situation, silent laughter shook them. One thing was certain: this journey would be etched in their memory as one of their most memorable moments.
After an especially exhausting day of conferences, Jack and Sam found themselves walking side by side in the soft twilight. The day's last rays of sunshine caressed their faces, and a cool breeze played with Sam's hair, providing a well-deserved breath of fresh air.
The house, a charming two-story building with cream-colored walls and a slate roof, was gently coming into view. Surrounded by a lush garden and a few trees, it exuded a warm and inviting ambiance. Jack glanced at Sam and gently took her hand, intertwining their fingers. She responded to his gesture with a sweet smile, one of those smiles that said more than a thousand words.
Upon reaching the front door, Sam searched for her keys in her bag, but before she could insert the key into the lock, Jack placed his hand on hers, stopping her in her tracks. She looked up at him, intrigued, and he used the opportunity to pull her gently toward him. Their lips met in a tender and affectionate kiss.
Stepping back from Sam with a mischievous smile, Jack whispered, "Shouldn't we send the kids to their friends' places for the evening, don't you think?"
Sam looked at him, a playful gleam in her eyes, and retorted, "Certainly not, General." She slid the key into the lock and gently pushed the door open, revealing the privacy of their home.
Jack followed her, feigning indignation, and said, "But that was almost an official order, Colonel!"
Sam turned her eyes toward him, a half-smile on her face, "What order? I haven't been a Colonel for a long time."
As soon as they crossed the threshold, the atmosphere felt immediately charged with palpable tension. The softly lit living room revealed Stella's silhouette, accentuating her blonde hair and flushed cheeks. She stood near the coffee table, her hands clenched together. Her light blue eyes were widened, and a few stray locks of hair fell onto her forehead.
Sam inquired, her tone shifting instantly from amusement to concern, "Stella? What's going on?"
The teenager's eyes lifted to meet Sam's. Her voice trembled, "I've... I've searched the whole house, I don't know where Victor and James are. They're gone."
Jack had just crossed the threshold of the door, fumbling with the tight knot of his tie that he was eager to remove. The day had been long and tiring, and he was looking forward to relaxing with his family. But his daughter's words halted him in his tracks. His usually teasingly bright eyes suddenly widened, betraying deep concern. He straightened up, his jaw clenched, "Gone?!"
Victor and James were far from the safety of their home. After their adventure on the plane, they found themselves in a much more dangerous place: the SGC base. Despite their invisibility, the underground military base presented multiple challenges.
As they entered the complex, they had to cautiously navigate through the corridors illuminated by blue neon lights. Groups of soldiers in uniform moved in formation, discussing missions or checking their equipment. The two brothers avoided any physical contact, fearing they might reveal their presence.
Several times, they had to evade security cameras scanning the passageways. Although invisible, they weren't sure if the advanced technology of the SGC could detect them. The long corridors of the base seemed to stretch endlessly, each turn revealing a new door, a new obstacle. They passed several laboratories where scientists were analyzing extraterrestrial artifacts or engaged in group discussions.
The control room was another challenge. Technicians worked there, staring at computer screens, manipulating buttons and levers. Victor and James had to wait for several minutes to find an opportunity to cross the room without being noticed.
Their biggest challenge, however, was undoubtedly the airlock chamber that led directly to the embarkation room. The airlock was designed to prevent any unauthorized entry, and the security mechanisms were highly advanced. The two brothers had to use all their ingenuity, waiting for a group of soldiers to enter or exit before slipping behind them.
Finally, after what felt like hours, they emerged in the embarkation room, dominated by the majestic Stargate. The imposing stone ring, engraved with mysterious symbols, stood at the center of the room, flanked by a metal access ramp. They could hear the murmur of a team preparing for a mission, but for the moment, the Stargate was inactive.
The teenagers, out of breath but relieved, approached the embarkation ramp, casting fascinated and anxious looks at the technological icon before them, wondering what their next move would be.
The silence was palpable when James asked, "Now what?" His eyes were fixed on the device that Victor held in his hands.
With the artifact temporal in hand, Victor studied it, his fingers lightly tracing the engraved controls on its surface. "We go back in time, sort this out, and head back home," he said firmly, attempting to conceal his anxiety.
James hesitated, gripping his brother's arm. "Are you sure the Bracelet of Hades will still work after the time travel?"
Victor looked up to meet his brother's anxious gaze. "I'm not sure of anything," he admitted. "We'll see."
Without further words, Victor firmly squeezed James's arm and activated the temporal device. A bright yellow halo surrounded the two brothers, and the reality around them began to warp. Sounds grew distant, colors faded, and the world seemed to stretch and fold in on itself.
When everything stabilized, they were still in the embarkation room, but it had a slightly different look. The equipment was less advanced, and the uniforms of the military personnel present had an outdated style. However, most importantly, they were still invisible. They exchanged a relieved look, understanding that they had successfully traveled back in time without losing their camouflage.
The blaring sirens suddenly echoed loudly, bathing the room in a fiery red light, creating an atmosphere of urgency and chaos. Heavy footsteps resounded, and soon, soldiers burst in, taking cover behind hastily erected barricades, their weapons pointed at the unknown threat.
Victor, his gaze fixed on the soldiers, sought answers. "I think they've spotted us," he whispered to James, thinking their presence had triggered the alarm.
However, the real spectacle was unfolding at the center of the room. The Stargate, monumental and imposing, radiated with a sparkling blue glow. From this tumultuous energy emerged two beings of inhuman appearance. Resembling giant octopus-like creatures, these entities had deep, shimmering shades of purple. Their texture resembled gelatinous substance, and from their central mass protruded bulbous eyes that shimmered with a mischievous glint. Low vibrations emanated from them, causing interference in nearby electronic devices.
As Victor tried to make sense of the situation, a sudden jolt interrupted him. One of the creatures, in a chaotic movement, collided with James head-on, propelling him several meters away. As he slid across the cold, hard floor of the room, the absence of contact with Victor dispelled his invisible camouflage. James was now exposed, visible to the eyes of both the creatures and the soldiers, vulnerable to any threat that might arise.
The soldiers, tense and disoriented by James' sudden appearance, instinctively aimed their rifles at the teenager, who, still dazed from the impact, was trying to regain his composure. In the midst of this chaos, distinguishing friend from foe was difficult, and the soldiers' reaction showcased their maximum state of alertness.
The creature, likely sensing James' movement or vulnerability, turned its massive form toward him. Its eyes, like brilliant headlights in the abyss, fixated intensely on the young man. One of its tentacles, resembling a viscous vine, extended dangerously, maneuvering with disconcerting precision toward James.
The room was charged with tension. Just as the tentacle threatened to ensnare James, a flash of determination crossed the teenager's eyes. Drawing from adrenaline reserves, James displayed astonishing agility. In a fraction of a second, he executed a roll to the side, narrowly escaping the creature's slippery grip.
Without wasting a moment, he sprang back to his feet with vigor, his initial fear transformed into fierce determination. With an almost frenetic energy, he launched an attack, unleashing a flurry of blows against the creature. His fists and feet struck with precision, targeting the entity's most sensitive points, especially the area where its globular eyes converged, which appeared to be its command center.
Chaos reigned supreme. The disoriented soldiers pointed their weapons in all directions. Orders were shouted, but the pervasive confusion made coordination challenging. To exacerbate the situation, the second creature, seizing the distraction, lunged with disconcerting speed toward the security door. With brute force, it shattered the door, creating a breach through which it escaped into the corridor.
The situation was dire. The base personnel now faced a threat not only in the embarkation room but also outside. Reinforcements were quickly summoned to contain the escaped creature, while others attempted to regain control of the main room.
Victor scanned the chaotic room, seeking a course of action that would have the most impact. His attention was drawn to the large window overlooking the meeting room. Inside, his parents moved with palpable urgency. He spotted Jack tightly holding a young boy, passing him swiftly to Sam. His eyes followed his mother as she slipped out of the room, taking the child to safety away from the threat.
Suddenly, cries, sharper than the alarms, echoed in the nearby corridors. Reacting almost instinctively, Victor, still invisible, rushed towards the cries. Once in the hallway, he was met with a scene of chaos: flickering neon lights, shrill alerts, and the muffled sound of gunfire from soldiers who appeared overwhelmed. With each step, he struggled to follow the trail of devastation, the visual and auditory clues of the extraterrestrial entity's passage. Tension hung heavy in the air, and every second counted.
The embarkation room was still a hive of activity. The bluish light of the Stargate vortex illuminated the scene, revealing the signs of the ongoing battle. James, his forehead sweaty, his face contorted with effort, grappled with the creature. Every exchanged blow produced a dull thud that was drowned out by the cries and chaos.
O'Neill, accompanied by Daniel and Teal'c, raced down the stairs leading to the embarkation room, weapons drawn. Their eyes quickly assessed the scene: a young man locked in combat with an unknown creature. Jack's heart raced; he understood the danger of the situation.
Seizing an opportunity when the creature was momentarily distracted, James channeled all his energy and delivered a monumental kick to its chest. Under the force of the impact, the creature was flung backward, passing through the swirling vortex of the still-open Stargate. The relief was short-lived because in an instant, a scaly and muscular tentacle emerged from the vortex, desperately trying to return.
James reacted swiftly, gripping the slimy tentacle firmly to prevent the creature from coming back. The muscles in his forearm were taut, and his feet slid slightly on the metallic floor, bearing witness to the herculean strength he was exerting.
"SHUT THAT DAMN GATE!" he yelled, his face contorted with effort.
The Stargate embarkation room crackled with electric tension. "Walter! Close the iris!" Jack ordered, his features strained with urgency. Above them, Walter's voice trembled, distorted by interference, "General, we're working on it, but something is obstructing the mechanism!"
The situation worsened when a second scaly tentacle, emerging from the Stargate vortex, tightly encircled James's neck. The young man struggled, his air supply running low.
Jack, in a protective reflex, aimed his weapon at the menacing tentacle and pulled the trigger, but the bullets bounced off without effect. Teal'c drew his Jaffa staff weapon and fired an energy burst, which also proved futile.
Reacting quickly, O'Neill attempted to approach the vortex to assist the teenager, deftly avoiding the flailing tentacles. Despite the perilous situation, James muttered a comment, "You always have to do everything yourself!" He managed to extend his hand toward the massive Stargate. The touch of the cold metal against his skin seemed to give him the strength he needed. Focusing all his willpower, he cried out with a voice filled with determination, "Tace!"
At that word, his bracelet lit up, the blue gemstones emitting a bright light. Daniel, a few steps away, noted this phenomenon with particular attention.
The Stargate reacted instantaneously to his call. The powerful vortex, roaring and swirling with raw energy, vanished as if sucked away, leaving behind a creature sliced in half. Caught off guard by this abrupt interruption, James was propelled backward, a piece of the tentacle still tight around his neck. Struggling against suffocation, he gathered his last strength to tear the slimy grip away, tossing it with disgust onto the metallic floor.
Regaining his breath, James stood up to face the accusing gazes of the surrounding soldiers, their weapons trained on him. Among the familiar faces, he locked eyes with Daniel and Teal'c, whose amazement and surprise were evident. Jack, his expression a mix of incredulity and suspicion, took a step forward. "Who are you?" he asked in a deep voice.
James lowered his eyes slightly, searching for his words. "I..."
A metallic sound, like armor scraping against the floor, suddenly interrupted their confrontation. Every gaze was drawn to this strange noise. The second creature, clearly incapacitated, seemed to be pulled by an invisible force, leaving behind a slimy trail. Everyone present, paralyzed by the strangeness of the situation, instinctively aimed their weapons at this moving shadow.
After what felt like an eternity, a faint hissing sound echoed in the room. And as if a veil was being lifted, Victor's form gradually materialized. From his feet to his head, his body slowly took shape, giving the impression of a sketch coming to life before the captivated audience's eyes. With a determined gesture, he released the tentacle he had been holding tightly, bringing the movement of the creature to an end as it collapsed on the floor.
Faced with this almost supernatural appearance, the bewildered soldiers slowly lowered their weapons. Jack, his brows furrowed and his expression perplexed, stared at Victor.
Once fully visible, Victor stood upright, the now inactive bracelet gleaming on his wrist, a slight bleeding cut visible on his right cheek. His clothes were slightly torn, bearing witness to the trials he had just endured. He lowered his gaze to the defeated creature at his feet, then raised his eyes, quickly scanning the room.
His eyes analyzed every nook, every face, silently assessing potential threats. When his gaze met that of his brother, a wave of relief washed over him, confirming that James was safe, though visibly shaken.
A silent exchange, rich in emotions and implications, occurred between them. They seemed to communicate without uttering a word, each understanding the unspoken words of the other.
Victor, regaining some composure, took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the upcoming interrogation. His eyes eventually settled on those of Jack, in which a whirlwind of emotions danced: relief, perplexity, recognition. O'Neill swallowed hard before whispering, breathlessly, "Victor...?"
Caught off guard, Victor froze in place. He could feel his heart racing in his chest, warmth rising to his cheeks. His body, already fatigued from the previous battle, was now tingling with adrenaline. The muscles in his arms and shoulders tensed, betraying his heightened state of alertness. His brows furrowed gently, a hint of concern passing through his eyes.
He had considered numerous scenarios when coming to this past, every detail, every possibility, every confrontation, but he had never imagined that his father would recognize him at this stage. The context was already complex enough, but this new variable added a layer of uncertainty to the situation. His thoughts swirled, weaving and unraveling theories at breakneck speed, desperately searching for an explanation.
In the infirmary, the sterile atmosphere contrasted with the previous chaos. The ceiling's fluorescent lights emitted a cold illumination, making every detail stand out. Shelves lining the walls were filled with neatly organized medical supplies: sterile dressings, bandages, bottles, and various instruments. In the middle of the room, James and Victor stood side by side on one of the beds.
Victor, looking slightly paler than usual, stole quick glances at his brother while feeling the gentle touch of cotton on his injured cheek. The nurse attending to him had just applied an antiseptic ointment with professional gentleness.
Another nurse, dressed in a pristine white coat and latex gloves, had just secured a tourniquet around James' arm and was focused on her task, ready to insert a needle for a blood sample. The teenager grimaced even before the needle's tip touched his skin. His fingers clenched the bedsheet, betraying an almost childlike aversion to the procedure.
Once the injection was complete, and as the nurse labeled the small vial of blood, James leaned toward her, feigning horror. "You know, I'm pretty sure I felt less pain when that alien creature threw me earlier." He emphasized his point by conspicuously pointing to the developing bruise on his opposite arm. The remark elicited an amused smile from the nurse.
Victor rolled his eyes, sporting a wry smile, well accustomed to his brother's sarcasm.
The two nurses, after giving one last glance to their patients to ensure they were out of immediate danger, exchanged a silent look. One of them, with long chestnut hair tied neatly in a ponytail, adjusted the bandages on the nearby table, while the other, a woman with thin glasses and short blonde hair, jotted down some details in a medical file. They then left the room, their rubber-soled shoes making their departure almost silent. The door closed slowly behind them, isolating the two brothers from the outside world.
James' eyes, filled with a mix of frustration and confusion, bore intensely into Victor. "You're going to have to explain this to me. How could Dad recognize you? Was there a glitch with that damn time device? Don't tell me we didn't arrive in the right era?!"
Victor shook his head and let out a heavy sigh. "No, I don't think I made a mistake. When we arrived, I saw myself at the age of my childhood dream, in Dad's arms."
Hardly had James opened his mouth to retort when Victor's face suddenly froze, his arm extending to stop him in his tracks. Victor's eyes, widened with alertness, were fixed on the entrance to the infirmary. Following his gaze, James felt his stomach knot up. Jack and Sam had just entered the infirmary, and the determined strides alone stirred an unexpected nervousness in him.
Daniel's footsteps echoed in the room, his piercing gaze analyzing every detail, every expression on the faces of the two brothers. His glasses instinctively adjusted, a gesture betraying his intense concern.
Beside Daniel, Teal'c advanced with his unflappable demeanor, his imposing stature contrasting with the growing inner turmoil of the two teenagers.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, James briefly glanced at the floor and muttered in a hushed voice, "Tell me you have a Plan B."
To be continued...