Hey everyone sorry it took me awhile to get this chapter up, has been hectic since the last update and a lot of things have happened, I hope you enjoy this latest chapter in my story.
Ignis Base
R&D Lab
It had been a month since the UNSC's first encounter with a Hive ship and survived during their assistants to helping find Colonel Sheppard and his team when they went missing. After that event Alton and his senior staff were invited to meet Weir and her people at their base of operations in the Pegasus galaxy. Alton was expecting some sort of underground facility or base built into a mountain, he and his staff were not expecting to walk through the Stargate into a city.
Not just any city, apparently Weir and her people set up shop in the city of the Ancients, they called it Atlantis . Alton and his people were amazed at the city, Weir felt after the amount of resources they used to help her in finding Sheppard and rescuing McKay, she felt it was safe to reveal about Atlantis and their gate address,
When Alton and his people returned from Atlantis with information about how important Atlantis is in maintaining absolute secrecy from the Wraith, he had his people back to work in their fields to better prepare for the next encounter.
In the R&D lab, Doctor Crane with other scientists were studying the captured Wraith dart, Sheppard acquired on his last mission, Weir gave it to them as compensation for their assistance, Crane himself would have preferred a look at their ships or the city Atlantis, but was happy to have gotten something.
The dart was picked up by Alton on his ship and transported back to Ignis base where, Crane had it transferred to a makeshift lab, due to the darts size. It was placed in a large room where a number of wires were connected to the control console.
Crane was busy looking over the computers that were hooked up to the dart as he was currently looking through the operating systems on the alien fighter craft.
Alton walked into the lab as he looks at the enemy fighter unit, Sheppard captured. "Doctor." Said Alton getting Cranes attention. "What have you got for me?"
Crane looked away from the computer. "It's an interesting craft." Said Crane as he stands next to Alton looking at the Wraith dart. "While it lacks some of the more sophisticated technological marvels we've seen in Covenant craft as well as ours, they do have some advantages over us."
Alton raised an eyebrow. "Can you clarify that for me?" asked Alton.
Crane nodded his head. "Like all Wraith ships, the Dart has an organic design, which indicates to us there not made the same way we make our fighter craft." Said Crane as he continues. "The dart is equipped with a forward-firing pulse energy weapon, it lacks any shielding or regenerative armor like large Wraith ships, so it can easily be destroyed."
"I thought it had an advantage over our craft." Said Alton as he looks at Crane puzzlingly. "So far you've told me it's easy to destroy."
Crane had a small smile on his face. "The advantage is the transport beam Weir mentioned in the information she provided for us." Said Crane. "It can sweep the ground of a planet the Wraith are attacking and captured human victims as well as act like a troop transport dropping off their soldiers."
Alton already knew that and saw it as a big advantage, they can attack as well as deliver their troops and not have to worry about protecting the troop transport, but this is a double edge sword as a fighter craft their targeted constantly by enemy fighters risking the lives of everyone contained in that transport beam.
"I already knew about that and it hardly makes much of an advantage." Said Alton not impressed one bit.
Crane crossed his arms. "What if their capable of transporting their troops across the galaxy?" asked Crane which got Alton's attention. "The size and shape of their darts are capable of travelling through a stargate as we know when Colonel Sheppard and his team escaped from the Hive and through a space gate."
Alton began thinking. "It doesn't matter continue your studies on this dart and relay all information back to me when your done." Said Alton as he walks out of the lab.
Crane just smiled and looked back the dart. "Oh, I plan to take this thing a part piece by piece." Said Crane as he gets back to work.
Ignis Base
Research Lab
In the research lab, where Collins was studying the Wraith, Alton made a stop here to learn anything new about her work.
"Doctor Collins." Said Alton as he steps though the doors to the lab.
Collins looks back at Alton. "Captain." Said Collins acknowledging Alton. "Here for the reports?"
Alton looks around the lab, busy as always. "Found anything worth reporting?" asked Alton.
Collins walks over to her computer and activates the console. "We managed to learn a few new things about the Wraith specifically the female Wraith we encountered named Ellia."
Alton nodded his head not wanting to remember that mission that almost cost Colonel Lang her life. "I remember, but don't bring that up in front of Lang."
Collins lifts her glasses up with her finger. "I understand why, but it was very fascinating experience to me." Said Collins as she continued. "When Ellia died at the hands of Colonel Sheppard and his team we managed to acquire her body for study."
Alton leans in. "What have you learned?" asked Alton.
"Female Wraiths are like human females their capable of having children." Said Collins as she brings up other information. "Dissection of Ellia we learned their brains are more developed then their male counterparts, probably due to the fact their telepathic abilities are more advanced."
Alton nodded his head. "So, they're dangerous?" asked Alton.
"More so than the males, but what woman isn't dangerous among any species." Said Collins looking at Alton with a grin on her face.
Alton wouldn't dispute her claim, as a man who has had plenty encounters with women he knows how feisty they can be. "Moving on." Said Alton wanting to change the subject. "What about the status of those two prisoners we have."
Collins nodded her head and changed the screen on the console to two males locked in separate holding cells. "The two individuals GR-1 captured when they rescued doctor McKay." Said Collins as she brings up other information. "Yes, they have been excellent participants in my research into the enzyme as well as the information acquired in that cave."
"How did you manage to convince them to help you?" asked Alton looking at Collins suspiciously.
Collins just looks at Alton with a small smile. "Do you want to know the answer to that or just leave it be?"
Alton seeing the look on her face said it all. "Moving on, what have you learned?" asked Alton changing the subject.
Collins began changing the display on the console. "We have learned much how this enzyme works in the human body and the effects it has, instead of relying on simulations and animal testing." Said Collins as she bring up other information. "We also acquired much information from them on their own research into the enzyme, how to regulate it better, how to administer it, and how to refine it, they even managed to lace it in their food."
Alton leans in on the console. "Were not about to serve our people with drugs in their food." Said Alton making sure Collins knows where he stands.
Collins nodded her head. "I know Captain, I'm just saying these people while not as advance as us were smart enough to know how to do this." Said Collin impressed by this group of misfits.
Alton nodded his head. "I agree, but we won't be hunting Wraith any time soon." Said Alton which reminded him of something else. "How are the Wraith these people captured?"
Collins looks away from the console. "The planet where GR-1 found these people, we set up a base there, I believe Captain Dare has taken up command of the base herself with her own people." Said Collins as she remembers Dare setting up shop on the planet. "I sent the team that are studying the Wraith to the planet to look at our new prisoners, seeing as you don't want them here."
When GR-1 reported back to Alton when they found McKay, they also informed him of the Wraith that are being kept as prisoners to harvest enzyme. Alton at first thought the best thing to do was just to kill the Wraith as a safety precaution, but Dare objected to that idea and wanted to try something else, as well as Collins who wanted her team to study the Wraith more.
"Are the Wraith on the planet secured?" asked Alton concerned for the safety of his people.
Collins nodded her head. "From what we learned having them unconscious is the safest thing for us, we have them constantly sedated to prevent them from trying to make contact with their fellow Wraith." Said Collins who then looked at Alton with an uncomfortable look. "How ever Dare has taken two of the Wraith prisoners and wants to try and interrogate them herself."
Alton just shook his head, knowing that was the case when she asked for two Spartans to accompany her to the planet. "I hope she knows the risk involved?" asked Alton.
Collins nodded her head. "She does that's why she launched a number of clarion spy drones in the system where they're at to detect any incoming Wraith ships."
"At least she takes precautions." Said Alton as he looks around the lab. "Anything else to tell me about?"
Collins shook her head. "At this time no, but I will let you know if anything interesting comes up." Said Collins as she gets back to work.
Alton himself decided to leave the room.
Ignis Base
Alton's Office
Alton was in his office working on his computer, the usual log reports he was making and reading reports of the activities on this base as well as mission reports from his teams. Speaking of his teams he was wondering how his flagship team GR-1 was doing on their next exploration.
Unknown System
Planet
Z3T-439
On this particular planet with a Stargate designated by the UNSC as Z3T-439 was being explored by GR-1. The probe they used for reconnaissance first detected a village not to far from the gate. One of the many responsibilities for GR teams was also to make contact with the inhabitants of the Pegasus galaxy.
Village
In the village, GR-1 walked into, was amazed to see actual buildings, considering from what they've learned about the Wraith culling planets and its people was surprised to not see a village where housing is made of sticks and wood instead of concrete.
While GR-1 was taking in the sights, the people themselves were staring at the new visitors from the ring of the ancestors. To the people of the village the visitors dressed oddly and carried strange tools.
Major Cheng notice the people's reaction to them. "Colonel were getting odd looks from the locals, I recommend taking off our helmets to ease the people's concerns." Said Cheng thinking of the best way to placate fear amongst the crowd gathering around them.
Lang noticing this as well nodded her head. "I agree, but just the two of us, Williams and Hagman leave theirs on." Said Lang as she and Cheng begin to remove their helmets revealing themselves to the crowd of people watching.
As the people got a good look at the two visitors faces a man walks up to them to greet them. "Hello." He said softly as possible to show non-aggressive speech. "I am the leader of this town, welcome to Sontal."
Lang and Cheng looked at each other and back at the mayor. "Is Sontal the name of this town?" asked Lang.
The mayor shook his head. "No, it is the name of our world." Said the mayor politely.
Lang smiled a little. "Thank you for the welcome." Said Lang as she begins to introduce herself and her team. "My name is Lieutenant Colonel Lang, this is Major Cheng, and behind us are Lieutenant Williams, and Sergeant Hagman ."
"Were peaceful explorers." Said Cheng reassuring the people and the mayor of their intentions.
The mayor bowed his head. "Welcome." Said the mayor." Please come with me."
As the mayor leads GR-1 to a building to begin talks, two men in the shadows looks at the strangers.
"They don't look like the Lanteans we've heard about or seen." Said one of the men.
"No, they do not, unless they've changed their equipment." Said the other man. "We need to know more about them."
"I know some people close to the mayor, I can have them get the information we want." Said one of the men.
The other man nodded his head. "Do it and maybe we can hire them for a job we have."
Village
In a different part of the village, Williams and Hagman were taking a look around the place while Lang and Cheng were conversing with the mayor.
As Williams and Hagman were looking around, Hagman spoke his mind. "I don't see any reason for making allies with these people." Said Hagman as he looks at how primitive these people are. "What do we gain from them?"
"You need to see the big picture Hagman." Said Williams as the two continued walking through the village. "I see people that can provide manual labor, a clear access to minerals and other deposits and establishing a forward operating base."
As the two continued they began to notice two individuals following them.
"We got spooks on our six." Said Hagman.
"You noticed them to." Said Williams as she and Hagman devised a plan and turned around the corner into an alley.
The two men soon ran to catch up to them, but as soon as they turn the corner the ODST's disappeared. The two cautiously walked into the alley, looking around for any signs of where they might have ran off to, but as soon as they turned around to retrace there steps, Hagman and Williams were behind them pointing their weapons at them.
"Mind telling me why you two are following us?" asked Williams as she and Hagman depolarized their helmets to show their faces.
The two men looked at each other and back at the ODST's. "Forgive us we we're only interested in talking to you." Said one of the men. "My name is Arlun and this is Pikus."
"Okay Arlun and Pikus." Said Hagman as he points his weapon at each man when saying their name's. "Again, why are you following us."
Arlun cleared his throat before responding. "We were hoping to know more about you folks and to offer you a job." Said Arlun.
Hagman and Williams looked at each other and back at the two men. "What kind of job?" asked Williams.
"A job you are clearly capable of doing." Said Arlun indicating with his hands of the superior equipment the ODST's were carrying. "Something my employers would be vary grateful for and are offering a reward."
Hagman became interested. "What's the job?" asked Hagman which he got a look from Williams. "What? It's only right to know!"
Williams looks back at Arlun. "What's the job?" asked Williams as well just out of curiosity.
Arlun smiled and pulled out images of individuals from a bag he was carrying.
Z3T-439
Stargate
A Few Hours Later
At the Stargate Colonel Lang and Cheng were waiting for Williams and Hagman to return. After a few hours both ODST's arrived.
"What took you two so long?" asked Lang as the two walked up to their commanding officer.
"Came across two individuals that were offering a job to us." Said Williams.
Lang and Cheng looked at each other. "What kind of job?" asked Cheng with questioning look on his face.
"Something we need to report back to Alton." Said Williams with a concern look on her face.
Atlantis
Gate Operations
In the city of Atlantis, the expedition was going about their day as usual, until the gate began to activate.
"Unscheduled off world activation." Said Chuck the technician as he activates Atlantis's Stargate shield.
Weir along with AR-1 soon arrived from their meeting in the conference room.
"Who is it this time." Said Weir as she and AR-1 gather around the computers.
McKay sits down and begins typing. "Receiving an IDC." Said McKay. "It's the UNSC."
"Lower the shields." Said Weir as soon as she heard it was them.
Weir along with AR-1 walked down the stairs as the shields lowered. After a couple of seconds GR-1 walked through the gate wearing ODST BDU's and carrying a hand gun and a small box.
"Dr Weir, Colonel Shepard, its good to see you both again." Said Lang as her team assembled before them.
Weir began looking behind them until the gate shutdown. "Is Captain Alton not coming?" asked Weir surprised to just see Colonel Lang and no other senior staff member in Alton's circle.
"This isn't a formal greeting." Said Lang as she brings up a small box. "We need to talk to both you and Colonel Sheppard."
Weir and Sheppard looked at each other and back and seeing the serious look in her eyes Weir took this seriously herself. "Right this way."
Atlantis
Conference Room
In the conference room everyone took their seats opposite of each other. Cheng was the only one not seated as he opened the small box they brought with them.
"During an exploration of a planet, we met with the locals of a small town and made contact with them." Said Lang as she began to recall the events that transpired. "While Major Cheng and I were busy talking with the leader of the town, Lieutenant Williams and Sergeant Hagman were taking in the sights of the area."
"Nice little place?" asked Sheppard casually while leaning in the back of his chair.
"Muddy and wet." Said Hagman remembering scrapping off the mud on his boots.
"Get use to that." Said Sheppard remembering all the times he tracked mud on his visits to other planets.
"Gentlemen." Said Weir interrupting their small talk. "Can we get back to why were all here."
Sheppard and Hagman apologized as Lang herself continued. "As I was saying while Cheng and I were talking with the mayor Hagman and Williams were checking around the town, until two unknown individuals walked up to them and offered them a job." Said Lang
"A job?" asked McKay with a boring look on his face. "You came all the way here just to tell us that."
Weir not liking McKay's attitude decided to inquire further. "What was this job?" asked Weir.
Lang nodded her head to Cheng and he began to pass out images to Weir and Sheppard. "The job was capturing your people." Said Lang as Weir and Sheppard took this seriously seeing the images of their faces and number of languages on it.
"What the hell." Said Sheppard as he looks through the images.
McKay, Teyla, and Ronon began looking at the images as well when it began to pass around the room.
As they began to look through it, Teyla pointed out something. "This appears to be a wanted list for Atlantis personal." Said Teyla looking at the language. "A great reward is offered."
"Didn't know I broke any laws." Said Sheppard jokingly.
Weir turned to Lang. "You said two men approached you?" asked Weir seeking further details.
"I wasn't approached Hagman and Williams was." Said Lang as she looks to her people.
Williams took the lead in explaining. "Two men were following us in town, we gave them the slip and confronted them in an alley." Said Williams. "They offered us a job and inquired further, but all they said was capture these individuals and bring you to them."
"Didn't think to get anything else out of them." Said McKay in an upset tone. "Like 'oh hey what do you need these people for and who do you work for' is that too hard to ask."
"If we had asked any further they would have been suspicious of us and he wouldn't have given us the gate address to the location where we're supposed to hand you off to them." Said Williams not liking McKay's attitude.
Sheppard seeing this, looks at McKay. "Relax McKay we were lucky are new friends took the time to get what they could on our behalf." Said Sheppard as he continues to look through the images and notice something. "Elizabeth look."
Weir took the image and looks at it. "It's Loren." Said Weir.
"As well as his whole team." Said Sheppard showing her other images. "This might explain what happened to Loren and his men."
Lang seeing their reaction to one of the photos spoke up. "Is there something wrong?" asked Lang.
Sheppard and Weir looked at each and back at Lang. "Yesterday four of our people were killed in an attack on another planet." Said Weir remembering the details from Sheppard. "We don't know why or who, but after seeing this, it explains a lot."
Lang leans on the table. "Clearly someone is targeting you people Doctor." Said Lang. "Captain Alton has offered us to help you in this investigation."
Just as Weir was about to say something, Ronon spoke up. "I don't see Teyla or me on any of these pictures." Said Ronon lifting up images of other Atlantis personnel.
"Lucky you." Said McKay in a worried tone of voice.
Weir began to look at the images more closely, but decided to not reveal sensitive information. "Will have to give it some more thought." Said Weir, but in reality she knew exactly what it meant. The people shown on the images carry the Ancient gene to operate ancient technology, something she didn't tell the UNSC about.
"Elizabeth anybody can tell from these images why these people…" started McKay but was stopped by Weir from revealing anything further.
"Rodney now is not the time." Said Elizabeth which got her suspicious looks from Lang. "We should focus on the situation at hand.
"What about the other problem?" asked Sheppard as he brings up the last person who dialed in before the UNSC.
"Other problem?" asked Lang.
Weir began to straighten herself before responding. "Before you dialed in, a member of the Genii contacted us and wanted to meet." Said Weir remembering the conversation she had. "We were discussing what to do before you arrived."
Lang leaned back in the chair and looked at her people and back at Weir. "Captain Alton offered us to assist you." Said Lang. "Will be following your orders if you still want us."
Weir nodded her. "We appreciate your assistants in this matter." Said Weir as she looks around the room at everyone. "Lets get to work people."
Weir's Office
In Weir's office Colonels Sheppard and Lang were seated in the office to begin planning out what to do.
Lang started first. "We should follow the lead I have." Said Lang. "We have the Gate address where were suppose to deliver people on those images."
"You want to check the planet out?" asked Sheppard.
Lang shook her head. "No, I want to deliver you and McKay to these men." Said Lang which got her looks from both Sheppard and Weir, Lang seeing this try to placate their concerns. "I know how this sounds…" started Lang, but was interrupted by Sheppard.
"From where I'm sitting it sounds like you want to hand us off for that reward." Said Sheppard accusingly.
Lang looks at Sheppard. "This is the best lead to finding out who spread these images and possibly lead us to the culprits that attack your people." Said Lang clarifying them of how important this could be. "In order to do that I need people on those images to present to the culprits."
"What if this is a trap." Said Weir leaning on her desk. "For all we know as soon as you hand over our people, they might just kill you instead of honoring their deal."
Lang leans back on her chair arms crossed over her chest. "I'm not saying there's not risk, but nothing in life can be achieved without taking risks." Said Lang as she defends her idea. "We can bring in extra help, or bring in one of our ships to the planet."
Weir began to think it over and made a decision. "I need Sheppard and McKay here to help deal with our Genii guest." Said Weir as she brings up an image. "But I can lend you Edison and most of his team." Said Weir showing images of the people she mentioned.
"Along with Teyla and Ronon." Said Sheppard which got him a look from Lang. "Just in case you need back up, and I like to have people I trust a part of this."
Lang while reluctant conceited. "Very well, have them ready to head out." Said Lang as she gets up from her seat. "Will head back to Ignis base and coordinate from there."
As Lang leaves, Sheppard and Weir looked at each other with concern looks on their faces.
Ignis Base
Conference Room
After returning from Atlantis with their guests, they convened in the conference room with Alton.
Lang explained the plan and Alton was already one step ahead of her. "It wasn't easy dragging Dare away from her work, but we have the Titus in orbit of the planet your supposed to meet these people." Said Alton as an image on the table appeared showing the terrain of the planet from the Titus. "We began receiving this the moment the Titus arrived."
On the table it showed the position of the Gate in conjunction with a small campsite. Too small for a village or town, but big enough for a handful of people. Lang thinks this must be the group waiting for anyone to deliver the people on those images.
As Alton and Lang look at the live stream images, Ronon spoke up. "So, what's the plan?" asked Ronon as he leans on the table.
Lang and Alton look up from studying the terrain. "We go in and hand Edison and his team over to them." Said Lang, which she got uncomfortable looks from Ronon and Teyla.
"Problems?" asked Lang seeing the looks on their faces.
"Would it not be better for us to apprehend these individuals and questioned them here?" asked Teyla seeking an alternative plan.
Lang shook her head. "We have no idea of what would be walking into if we show up in force." Said Lang as she studies the terrain. "And they picked a perfect spot to keep them in cover, so even if we sent an air strike from orbit they wouldn't have a clear shot."
"Not to mention these people could just have been hired by the real perpetrators to cover their tracks." Said Alton joining in the conversation. "If we want to know what's going on, we have to let things unfold."
Ronon and Teyla looked at each other before looking back at Alton and Lang. "Very well, we will follow your lead on this matter." Said Teyla feeling uncomfortable, but conceiting.
After that was over Lang order everyone to be ready to move out in ten minutes.
Planet
Gate
The Gate on the planet activated and out came the spherical probe the UNSC sends out before sending people. After a minute, GR-1, along with Edison's team, Ronon, and Teyla arrived.
Lang looked around the area weapon ready. "Alright Ronon, Teyla." Said Lang getting there attention. "Wait by the gate."
Ronon and Teyla looked at each and back at Lang. "Colonel, would it not be better for Ronon and I to follow you in case this is a trap?" asked Teyla not liking the idea of being left out of this.
"She's right." Said Ronon joining the conversation. "It be better if we all go."
Lang shook her head. "For all we know they already know about the two of you." Said Lang clarifying for them. "You may not have been on those wanted pictures, but that doesn't mean there not aware of you."
"It would be best for everyone if you stay behind covering our six, incase we need to fall back." Said Major Cheng backing Lang's plan.
While Ronon and Teyla wanted to protest, they realized Lang was correct in her assessment.
"Now that that's cleared up, Hagman tie up Edison and his team, we need to make this look real." Said Lang as Hagman went to work tying the men up.
Campsite
At the campsite a couple of men were checking their equipment until they heard the sound of footsteps in the bushes in front of them.
They all turned their weapons pointed at the sound of footsteps. When GR-1 came out in the open, Lang raised her hands while the rest of GR-1 pointed their weapons right back at the men at the campsite dragging along Edison and his team.
"We mean you no harm." Said Lang as she approaches the men with the wanted pictures in hand. "We were hired to capture these men for a reward and deliver them here."
One of the men walked up to Lang and smiled.
Gate
At the Gate Ronon and Teyla were standing around waiting anxiously. "This was a mistake." Said Ronon in an upset angry tone. "We should be there."
Teyla felt the same way. "I feel as you do Ronon, but we must trust Colonel Lang's judgement." Said Teyla trying to calm Ronon.
As the two waited they hear gun fire in the distance of the campsite, Ronon unholstered his particle magnum and began running at high speeds to the area, followed behind him was Teyla.
"Colonel Lang what is the situation?" said Teyla in her radio. "Please respond?"
Campsite
At the campsite Ronon and Teyla arrive to see Williams and Cheng tend to the wounded of one of Edison's team, while Lang and Hagman were pointing their weapons at a wounded man,
Ronon and Teyla had their weapons raised and as they walked over to Lang. "What happened here?" asked Teyla in shock to see many dead men on the ground.
"This guy ordered us to hand Edison and his team over to them and told us to leave." Said Lang not looking away from the injured man and not dropping her gun. "I asked about the reward, he claims there isn't one."
"Colonel got suspicious of these men and refused." Said Hagman still pointing his own gun. "That's when we told him the deal was off and all hell broke loose."
Ronon looks around. "What now?" asked Ronon frustrated at where they were.
Lang puts her weapon away and grabs the injured man on the ground. "This guy starts talking." Said Lang as she drags him away from the area.
MSR-533
Epsilon Base
Conference Room
Epsilon base was created as a fall back point in the event Ignis base was destroyed, only a couple of hours away from Ignis base by ship. Here is where GR-1 brought back the injured man for medical treatment and to question him further.
In the conference room, Colonel Lang along with Teyla, Ronon, and Captain Dare were seated around the conference table.
"From what we could get from the interrogation of this man." Started Dare reading the reports. "He and his men are bounty hunters, they outsource their work to other people, use them to do their dirty work so they could get the reward themselves."
"Are they not connected with whoever distributed these images of the Atlantis personnel?" asked Teyla.
Dare shook her head. "He was hoping to acquire the people in the images and find the ones that offer the reward." Said Dare.
"So, were back to where we started." Said Ronon leaning back in the chair.
Dare shook her head. "We did find this among the bounty hunters." Said Dare opening up the book. "Apparently this is a journal kept detailing information about this groups activities and a list of gate addresses."
Ronon and Teyla looked at the journal. "I do not understand." Said Teyla.
"We believe this individual was not really working with the bounty hunters but infiltrated their ranks and keeping tabs on their activities." Said Dare seeing the pattern as a spook herself. "We think who ever planted this man is the real culprit, but he's dead."
"What about these addresses?" asked Ronon. "Where do they go?"
Dare activates a wall mounted screen showing the list of addresses taken from the journal. "The addresses correspond to the planets the wanted pictures were distributed too." Said Dare. "Except for this one."
"You believe this planet to be the location of the perpetrators?" asked Teyla.
Dare nodded her head. "I do." Said Dare with confidence. "You should report back to Doctor Weir, apprise her of the situation."
Lang looked at Dare suspiciously, while Ronon and Teyla agreed with her. They soon left for the Stargate.
Lang turned around in her chair slowly. "That's not like you." Said Lang accusingly at Dare.
Dare however smiled at Lang. "Get your people ready, were going to the planet by ship." Said Dare as she gets up from her chair.
"This is supposed to be a joint op with Weir's people." Said Lang not liking the idea of going behind their backs.
"And we've done the babysitting." Said Dare with a serious expression. "It's time we got some real work done."
Titus
Locker Room
Slipspace
En-route to Planet
In the locker room on board the Titus GR-1 were gearing up for the mission.
"Any of you fine this strange how much more cooperative Dare is on this mission. " said Williams to the team. "At first she wasn't responding to the call we made when we first inquired about the images, secondly it took the Captain to drag her away from whatever she's doing."
"I know what you mean, but its Captain Dare." Said Hagman suspicion in his voice. "An ONI spook, they're always up to something."
Lang closed the locker door and put on her helmet. "Spook or not, we still have a mission to complete, move out." Said Lang as each member of GR-1 walked out of the locker room and headed for the bridge.
Space
Out in space a slipspace portal opened and out came the Titus. The Titus began moving in orbit of the planet.
Orbit
M6R-867
Titus
Bridge
On board the bridge of the Titus, GR-1 along with Captain Dare were looking at a holographic image of the planet. It wasn't long after a complete orbital scan located a building with a massive number of people.
"That's a lot of people on a planet that looks like its been abandoned for years." Said Hagman looking at the images on the holo table.
"You think it's the ones behind all this?" asked Lang. "Or is it a group of people trying to rebuild on this world?"
Dare leans on the table. "One way to find out." Said Dare.
M6R-867
On the outskirts of the planet a pelican lands in the far distance away from the damaged buildings. The pelican lowered its bay doors and out came GR-1 along with Captain Dare and her elite team.
After scanning around the area seeing no immediate dangers, the group continued on foot to the buildings.
Ruin Buildings
GR-1 and Captains Dare's team moved quietly around the ruins, their motion detectors giving them the advantage. As they continued through the buildings they were able to get a good look at the people on this planet.
"Don't recognize the uniforms." Said Lang using her helmet to zoom in on the individuals.
"They're Genii." Said Dare seeing the same group.
"You don't sound surprised?" asked Lang looking at Dare suspiciously.
Dare looks at Lang. "While we have never made any contact with the Genii directly, I had my people to keep an on eye on them." Said Dare as she looks back at the Genii men. "I was getting reports of strange activity amongst the Genii, but didn't think much of it."
As the group continue to observe, Dare received a radio transmission from the Titus. "Stargate's been activated." Said Dare as she and GR-1 take cover. "Radio signals coming from the building over there and from the Gate."
As both groups hide in cover waiting for the next move, the Titus reported back and gave them a surprising explanation.
"Sheppard and his people are being held captive?" asked Lang surprised of the situation they were in.
"From the exchange on the radio the Titus intercepted, Weir has 15 minutes to hand over all their jumpers or Sheppard dies." Said Dare as she looks at her tacpad. "We have 12 minutes left."
"We need to rescue them." Said Lang as she lifts her assault rifle up to her chest signifying in her action that she was ready.
"We need a plan first Colonel before jumping into a hostile environment." Said Dare as she comes up with a plan. "I want you to take your team and find where there keeping Sheppard, but take no action in rescuing them yet."
Lang looks around confused to Dare's orders. "May I ask why?" asked Lang feeling anxious.
"Were out numbered here." Said Dare as she reminds them of the overwhelming force around them. "Not to mention the Genii have nuclear capabilities at their disposal, we have to assume they brought one here to quell any response to a rescue attempt by Weir."
Lang hearing this nodded her head in understanding. "Alright GR-1 move out." Said Lang as she led her team to find Sheppard.
After Lang left with her team, Dare got on a secure radio channel. "Priority target has been confirmed prepare brig on Titus." Said Dare as she looks at her team. "Pull out the Wraith stunner I want him captured alive."
Dare then leads her men as well to another area.
M6R-867
Building
Inside the old building GR-1 were able to sneak inside as quietly as possible avoiding any unnecessary fire fights with the Genii, while Lang did her homework on the Genii and found that the UNSC have better weapons and trained soldiers than they do, but felt it was better for stealth on this op than brute force.
As the team continue through the building Cheng stopped the team. "Colonel without an exact location of where Sheppard and his team is we are just running around in circles." Said Cheng making a point.
Lang stopped and began thinking and turned to Williams. "Is there a way to find them?" asked Lang.
Williams began thinking. "Without neural implants we wouldn't be able to lock on their transponders." Said Williams. "And even if they do have some form of transponders similar to our own, we don't have the frequency they use."
"Can't you hack it?" asked Hagman.
Williams shook her head. "It would take to long and we only have seven minutes left." Said Williams looking at her tacpad.
"Then we have to get our hands dirty." Said Lang.
Building
The seven minutes were up, and three Genii were walking down a hallway, the three were led by Ladon Radim as he was under orders from Cowen to kill Sheppard. As the three were heading that way they were immediately attack from both sides and taken down.
Lang approached the man she believed to be the leader and lifted him up. Ladon was completely astound at these new visitors and wonder if they were Lanteans, but saw their uniforms and weapons were completely different than the ones Weir's people used.
"I'm going to ask one question." Said Lang eyeing the man behind her polarized mask for intimidation. "Where is Sheppard?"
Holding Cell
In the holding cell where Sheppard and his men were being held as prisoners as well as the missing men that were presumed dead were waiting in the cell. The gassed marines that were taken out when they stormed the building were reviving. Lorne and his team help them up. While Sheppard goes over to Rodney as he wakes up.
"What the hell happened?" dazed and confused from the gas.
"We got gassed." Explained Sheppard
"Are we in some sort of trouble?" asked McKay holding his head feeling a bit discomfort
"Was it the gas or the prison cell that was your first clue?" asked Sheppard annoyed at McKay.
As the men were being helped, Sheppard could hear footsteps, Lorene and Sheppard braced themselves, but as soon as they saw the people making the noise, they were relived to see Lang and her team holding Ladon and his men at Gun point.
"Never been more happier to see you guys until now." Said Sheppard relief in his voice.
Lang walks up to the cell and broke the lock with her gun and opened the cage door. "Come on we have a transport waiting." Said Lang as Sheppard and his people walked out of the cage cell, Lang and her team began tying up Landon and his men.
"Wait." Said Ladon getting Lang and Sheppard's attention. "I was coming here to free you." Said Ladon, which got him a skeptical look form Sheppard.
"Oh really?" Said Sheppard. "Drawing us here and gassing us was what foreplay?"
"I was coming here to ask you something." Said Ladon getting Sheppard's attention. "Weir says your Doctor Beckett can cure the people I sent through the Gate, is that true?"
Sheppard walks up to Ladon. "Beckett's the best doctor in two galaxies." Said Sheppard with confidence in his voice. "If there's a cure, he's got it."
"I can get you pass the men surrounding this facility and straight to the Stargate." Said Ladon.
"Thanks, but we can handle ourselves." Said Lang as she checks her tacpad. "We have our own means of leaving this place."
"Can you get way in time for the nuclear device hidden away in this building." Said Ladon which got the attention of everyone around. "If you think you have time to escape, it set to blow on a timer."
"How'd you get your hands on that?" asked Sheppard surprised to hear this.
"You forget I'm the chief scientist." Said Ladon with a smile. "I made it."
"You're going to start your coup!" stated McKay surprised by this.
"I needed Cowen and his elite guard together in one place." Said Ladon revealing his plan to them. "I knew the chance at some Puddle Jumpers would get him here."
Sheppard walks away and signals Lang to follow him. "Can we make it on foot to your ship in time?" asked Sheppard.
"Without knowing the exact time." Said Lang looking back at Ladon. "Don't think he's willing to tell us, and we don't have time to get it out of him."
Sheppard nodded his head and went over to Ladon to untie him, Lang got on the radio. "Dare this is Lang come in." said Lang.
"This is Dare." Said Dare. "Did you find Sheppard?"
"Yeah and more." Said Lang with concern in her voice. "We have a problem."
Atlantis
Control Room
"Receiving Doctor McKay's I.D.C." Said Chuck the technician.
"Defense teams stand by!" Said Weir calling down into the Gate room. " Lower the shield."
She runs for the stairs down into the Gate room. As the shield lowers, the group of marines and Genii walk through the Gate as well as GR-1 which surprised Weir. Rodney waves to Elizabeth as he comes through.
"Rodney!" said Weir in Surprise.
"It's a long story." Said Rodney walking to Weir. "Short version Colonel Lang and her people came and rescued us, but it turns out Ladon was planning his coup all along.".
"He really was planning a coup?!" asked Weir
"Apparently we're a part of the plan." Said Rodney.
As soon as Sheppard and Ladon walk through the Gate, Sheppard ordered the shields to raise.
Weir walks over to them. "Explanations would be nice." Said Weir while also looking at Colonel Lang and GR-1. "As well as why you were there."
Ignis Base
Conference Room
In the conference room, Alton and Dare were conversing amongst each other. "We received word from Atlantis." Said Alton. "Our people are safe as well as Sheppard and his people that were being held prisoners."
"And this Ladon Radim?" asked Dare.
"Took control of the entire Genii." Said Alton as he leans back in his chair. "Now as for our guest?"
Dare turned to the screen on the wall and pressed a button. "Captain allow me to introduce to you Commander Cowen former leader of the Genii." Said Dare with a grin.
Cowen was sitting in a cell dressed in a prisoner outfit.
"Is there a reason why you captured him?" asked Alton looking at Dare for answers.
"Given the significant military power the Genii have at their disposal we need better intel on their activities." Said Dare as she explains her decision to capture Cowen. "Not to mention this Ladon Radim person is someone we should be careful around, he was smart enough to orchestrate a coup while also deceiving Cowen in letting his guard down."
Alton read the report from GR-1, how Ladon was able to get Cowen and his elite guard to a planet at a chance to get their hands-on Atlantis's puddle jumpers. "I agree we need to keep a closer eye on him, but how does having Cowen help?"
"Cowen knows everything about the Genii, their outposts, safehouses and recruiting stations on planets. " Said Dare with a smile. Alton suddenly realized what Dare was planning.
"You plan on infiltrating the Genii?" asked Alton not liking the idea to spread his people out to much. "Isn't that risky now that Ladon Radim is aware of us?"
"He knows there's a new player in the galaxy besides his people and Weir's." said Dare as she assess the situation. "Besides if anyone can get into their organization its ONI."
"You think Cowen is just going to tell you freely." Said Alton not sure if a prisoner was going to tell them what they want.
"He knows its in his best interest to cooperate." Said Dare as she leans back in her chair. "Besides after we told him what his former chief science officer did, he has no loyalty for him."
Alton gets up from his chair. "Hope you know what your doing." Said Alton as he walks out of the conference room leaving Dare by herself.
Genii Home world
Genii Bunker
In the Genii bunker Ladon Radim was settling in to his new command as leader of the Genii. His new post had him very busy dealing with the many issues the Genii were dealing with as head of state, but one thing was on his mind the new arrivals in this galaxy.
"We need to know everything there is about these UNSC." Said Ladon to his trusted advisors. "Have we heard anything?"
"Just that there have been sightings of people based on the description you gave us on dozens of worlds." Said the advisor. "We still don't know the location of their main base of operations."
Ladon walks over to his desk and sits down. "The Lanteans know where they are." Said Ladon accusingly. "I doubt they'll tell us, they have some kind of an alliance with them."
"An alliance we could use ourselves." Said the advisor after hearing reports of the advance technology at their disposal.
Ladon agreed and wanted to get in contact with them. "Until we can make contact we have important business to attend.
Atlantis
McKay's Lab
In McKay's lab was Doctor McKay himself working as usual until Weir walked in along with an armed guard and to McKay's surprise Doctor Crane.
"What's going on here?" asked McKay shocked to see Crane.
"Rodney, I invited Doctor Crane to come to Atlantis to help us in any scientific research were conducting." Said Weir as she gestures Crane with her hand to come forward. "After all this is the second time the UNSC has saved you, I figured you would be happy to converse with each other."
"I'm looking forward to this exchange Doctor." Said Crane as he looks around the room. "Very excited indeed."
McKay smiles awkwardly. "Elizabeth you should have told me sooner, I would have gotten this place in tip top shape, before our gust arrived." Said McKay clearly annoyed at the idea.
"Well when you wrote in your report how you successfully worked with Doctor Crane before I figured it would hurt to work with him again." Said Weir as she begins to leave. "Please make him feel welcome Rodney."
McKay sighs heavily as Crane looks on a white board of mathematical equations, which McKay runs over and flips the white board over to a clear side, "Hey don't be looking at my work." Said McKay in frustration.
Crane smiled. "Sorry about that, couldn't help myself." Said Crane as he steps back a bit. "Just checking your math and seeing if we use the same system of equations."
"Math is a universal language, of course we use the same equations." Said McKay. "Whether yours is up to our level is another question." Said McKay not too sure of himself.
Crane chuckles a bit which annoyed McKay. "Look last time we work together you helped me out a lot with my research." Said Crane. "Now while I can't give you any sensitive information, Captain Alton has given me permission to answer any question you have on any technology that is not considered classified."
McKay was taken back a bit by this sudden offer. "Well… In that case I have a lot of questions." Said McKay as Crane was ready for them. "First I like to know about your FTL engines."
Crane smiled. "I'll tell you mine if tell me about yours." Said Crane as the two began working on the blank white board together.
Hey everyone hope you enjoyed this chapter, as you can see a lot of things have happened, Dare doing her ONI thing and McKay and Crane getting together to exchange information, let me be clear on that, their not exchanging technology, but information on their respective FTL, the UNSC uses Slipspace, the Tau'ri uses Hyperdrives. I will be skipping a couple of episodes to move things along so I hope you guys don't get upset over it. The next chapter will come out in December. Please leave a review at the end, thank you.