New York City

Rebecca, the host, welcomed the viewers with confidence. "Welcome to The Global Roundtable. Tonight, we have a special guest, Senator Alan Armstrong, who has some interesting views on the United Earth Alliance Congress's recent policies."

The camera panned to Senator Alan Armstrong, who sat calmly, ready to engage in the discussion. Rebecca began by addressing the Sentient Rights Act. "Alan, let's start with the Sentient Rights Act. Do you believe it was necessary to grant all beings, including the unborn, the same rights?"

Alan's voice projected with conviction as he responded, "I understand your concerns, Brooke, but this act is not about control. It's about acknowledging the dignity and potential of all life. It's about fostering a society where every being, regardless of its stage of development, is afforded the same rights and opportunities. This act encourages us to embrace empathy and compassion, to see the value in every individual."

As the discussion continued, Emily, who had been silent until now, chimed in with a dismissive tone. "These are idealistic notions, but how can we practically implement such a law? How can we ensure that it doesn't infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others? And what about the limitations on press freedom? Why are you restricting the vital role of journalism within government and military installations?"

Alan listened intently and then responded, "Emily, I appreciate your concerns. Implementing this law requires careful consideration and collaboration. We must work towards finding a balance between protecting individual rights and fostering social harmony. As for freedom of the press, its not in the Tau'ri Federation founding document, the limitations within government and military installations are necessary to prevent sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands. It is about ensuring the safety and security of our world."

Brooke, still skeptical, interjected, her voice filled with disbelief. "But aren't you essentially equating the value of unborn life with that of fully developed sentient beings? Don't you see the absurdity in that? It's just a ploy to gain more control over women's reproductive choices!"

Alan remained composed, determined to explain his perspective. "Brooke, this act is not meant to diminish the value of fully developed sentient beings; it's about acknowledging the individual potential and rights of every being, regardless of their stage of development. It's not meant to control women's reproductive choices, but rather to provide options and support. For instance, if a woman wants an abortion, we can facilitate beaming the fetus into another expecting mother or an incubation chamber."

The panelists were taken aback by the unexpected response, shifting their focus to a different question. "How many white people are in the Tau'ri Federation?" one of them asked abruptly, showcasing the racial bias that had been prevalent in the media.

Ever determined to dispel any discriminatory beliefs, Alan responded promptly, "The Ascended Being are white, Earth is not the center of the universe. In the Tau'ri Federation, we do not discriminate based on races. Whether it's human, Serrakin, Oanes, Asgard, Nox, Spirits, Reol, Ursini, Unas, Gadmear, Nakai, we don't differentiate between colors. We welcome all beings with open arms."

Another question arose, this time concerning the Navy's actions towards the Wraith. "Why is the Navy exterminating the Wraith like they exterminated the Asgard?" one panelist questioned.

Alan couldn't help but chuckle. "Where did you hear that? The Asgard did not meet their demise due to extermination. They chose to end their own existence after thousands of years of cloning, resulting in genetic degradation. We only engage in self-defense when it comes to the Wraith."

By providing answers rooted in truth and understanding, Senator Alan Armstrong aimed to dispel misconceptions and encourage a more open-minded dialogue among the panelists. As the conversation continued, a sense of change began to emerge, echoing the sentiments of a society where every being, regardless of their origins and characteristics, is treated with respect and equality.

On this particular episode of The Global Roundtable, Alan's words resonated with viewers, sparking conversations and igniting a desire for unity that would transcend the boundaries of race, color, and species. Through thoughtful discussion and empathy, the world took another step towards a future where all beings, no matter who they were or where they came from, would be regarded as equals in the grand tapestry of the universe.


Gate Operations, Central Spire

New Atlantis City, New Atlantis

The klaxon blared through the halls of Stargate Operations in New Atlantis, signaling the arrival of an incoming wormhole. Marines ran to the embarkation area with their weapons drawn. Sergeant Chuck Campbell, the Stargate operations technician, quickly alerted the team over the radio.

"Incoming wormhole!" Chuck called out urgently.

Teyla Emmagan Sheppard, the civilian leader of New Atlantis Pegasus Command, swiftly emerged from her office adjacent to the gate operations and made her way to the dialing console. The lights on the Stargate's inner ring began to spin as it locked up on the Chevron. With the final Chevron locked, the unstable wormhole erupted momentarily before stabilizing.

"Activate shields," Teyla ordered, her voice filled with authority.

"Receiving IDC," Sergeant Kevin Ingold reported, quickly checking the identification code. "It's Stargate Command, ma'am."

"Deactivate the shields," Teyla commanded and she look the marines. "Stand down Marines."

Without hesitation, the shields surrounding the Stargate were deactivated. Teyla looked down at the Stargate, ready to welcome the people coming through from the other side.

Five marines, clad in their standard desert digital camouflage with blue berets adorned with the Stargate symbol of Earth, stepped through the wormhole. They were armed with Zat'nika'tels holstered on their laps and E90 energy weapons in P90 chassis. Accompanying them was a woman with auburn hair, standing at 5.6 feet and dressed in a blue pantsuit.

"Hi, I am Teyla Emmagan Sheppard," Teyla introduced herself with a warm smile, extending her hand for a shake.

The woman recognized Teyla's last name. "I'm Nancy Hayes, Tau'ri Federation Security," she said, her curiosity piqued. "Sheppard, that surname is familiar."

"Yes, John Sheppard is my husband, among many wives," Teyla responded. "What is he to you?"

"Oh, he's my ex-husband," Nancy revealed, her interest growing. "How many wives does he have?"

"Three, including me," Teyla replied calmly.

Curious about John, Nancy asked Teyla where he was at the moment. Teyla informed her that he was asleep in his quarters, needing rest after battling the Wraith before the upcoming summit.

"Has he spoken about me?" Nancy inquired, a hint of hope in her voice.

"He has not," Teyla answered truthfully, aware that John had mentioned being involved with a woman who only cared about her career.

"Oh, I'm that bitch," Nancy admitted, her tone filled with introspection.

Teyla couldn't help but grin, nodding her head in understanding. "If you'd like to visit him..."

"No, no, it's okay. I don't want to bother him," Nancy declined the offer. She then turned her attention to Teyla's role in New Atlantis, curious about the dynamic between her and John.

"I'm the civilian commander of Pegasus Command, and General Sheppard is the military commander, governor, and the King of this planet," Teyla explained.

Nancy playfully tapped Teyla on the shoulder, letting out a laugh. "You're kidding, right?"

"No, I'm not joking," Teyla responded, her smile unwavering as she tried to keep a straight face.

Before Teyla could further explain their roles, a familiar voice echoed from the corridor, catching Nancy's attention. A man, around 72 years old but still healthy, walked towards Stargate Operations, accompanied by several individuals she didn't recognize. They wore tan military uniforms, and there was a brunette woman in leather, a blond woman in a royal-looking robe, and a woman dressed in a white gown. It was Henry Hayes, Nancy's father-in-law and the grandfather of her son, Jonathan.

"You see, Chaya..." Henry began, noticing Nancy standing a few feet from the Stargate. "Well, what do you know," he said as he approached his daughter-in-law, pulling her into a warm hug. "What brings you to New Atlantis?"

After releasing herself from the hug, Nancy glanced at the woman in white who emitted an ethereal glow. "I'm here to extradite Jared Booth back to Earth," Nancy explained, waiting for Henry to introduce his guest.

"Oh, my manners. I'd like to introduce you to Chaya," Henry announced. "Larrin of the Travelers, Queen Mara, and lastly, Ladon Radin and his wife, Sora Tyrus."

Nancy couldn't hide her happiness after seeing her father in law in another galaxy. "Good to meet all of you."

"Will you be staying for the summit?" Henry ask Nancy.

"I'll think about it Henry." Nancy replied.

"Well, I want to talk to you before you leave alright?" Henry said as he leads the group into the transporter.

Nancy didn't know where they are going but the glare she got from the one name Chaya got her feeling something that never felt before. Like sort of guilt towards someone that she did wrong. She tried to shrug it off but she couldn't. "Teyla, Can I be excuse?"

"If you need a moment, the balcony is open." Teyla said as she see's the sadness on Nancy's face.


The sprawling city of New Atlantis sparkled beneath Nancy as she stood on the balcony of the top spire, the winds gently brushing her skin as the afternoon sun warmed her face. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she contemplated the news she had just received - her ex-husband, John Sheppard, had been promoted to General and was now in charge of military decisions in the entire Pegasus galaxy alongside his wife, Teyla Emmagan.

Lost in her thoughts, Nancy was startled when a woman in a flowing white gown suddenly appeared before her.

"Nancy," the woman spoke softly.

Startled, Nancy replied, "Yes?"

"My name is Chaya," the woman introduced herself.

"I know," Nancy responded, her voice filled with mixed emotions. "You're his wife."

Chaya smiled gently. "In a way, I am more than that. I'm his soulmate."

Confusion washed over Nancy's face as she tried to understand what Chaya meant. Sensing her confusion, Chaya gracefully moved closer to the balcony railing.

"In simple terms," Chaya began, "John and I share an intimate bond. We know everything about each other, on a level that transcends physicality."

Nancy's heart sank as she realized the implications of Chaya's words. "You mean... you and John..."

Chaya nodded, her eyes filled with empathy. "Yes, we have a child together. She is seven years old now."

Tears flowed freely from Nancy's eyes, blending with the wind as she struggled to find her voice. "I had no idea that he had moved on completely."

"John is a complicated man, Nancy," Chaya said with compassion. "After you and John divorced, he tortured himself trying to find himself, going on dangerous missions, test flying new aircraft, even disobeying orders."

Nancy's voice trembled as she spoke, "I never wanted him to suffer like that. I wanted him to be happy." She wiped away her tears. "Three years ago, he asked me for information regarding Project Archetype. I didn't know what he was involved in, and he never told me." Nancy paused, her voice shaking. "Then two years ago, his face was plastered all over the media, claiming that he was a militia member who stormed into the Vice President's home."

"Though the river tells no lie, the dishonest standing on the shore still hears them," Chaya quoted.

Curious, Nancy asked, "Where is that proverb from?"

Chaya pondered for a moment before replying, "I don't know. It was said by one of my kind after she was cast out for interfering with corporeal matter. It stuck with me."

Understanding dawned on Nancy's face. "You're an Ascended being. I've heard a lot about your kind. How were you kicked out of the Ascendancy?"

Chaya looked into the distance; her eyes filled with sorrow. "The Wraith attacked my world, culling my people to be fed upon later. The Ancient who ascended didn't want to intervene, to involve themselves in the lower planes of existence." Chaya's voice trailed off as she contemplated her past. "With a single thought of my mind, I destroyed the Wraith fleet orbiting my planet, and the others cast me out, banish me to my world. As punishment, I can only help my world. For 10,000 years, I was alone, never involving myself with anyone until I met John. He took a liking to me, and we fell in love."

Nancy couldn't help but smile as she thought of John Sheppard with his ruffled hair. "He's always had a charming appeal, hasn't he?"

Chaya nodded, a soft smile gracing her lips. "He does." She took a deep breath. "

"Knowing now what he did for living." Nancy looks up, seeing the Naglfar flying in a V formation over the skies. "Fighting life sucking aliens in distance universe."

"Yes, he has." Chaya nodded. "And he will continue to fight for those who can't fight for themselves. That's just the kind of person he is."

Nancy smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "I know. He's always been like that. He's a good man."

Chaya nodded, her smile mirrored Nancy's.

Meanwhile, Teyla had been observing the conversation between Nancy and Chaya from a distance. A contented smile graced her face as she touched her growing belly, feeling the baby kick. She had never imagined herself sharing John with Chaya and Mara, but she had made the decision and was genuinely happy about it.

As Nancy and Chaya continued their conversation, Teyla quietly retreated, confident that their meeting would help Nancy find solace and closure. The wind caressed Teyla's face as she made her way back inside, knowing that the love she shared with John was strong enough to weather any storm.

Meanwhile, Teyla had been observing the conversation between Nancy and Chaya from a distance. A contented smile graced her face as she touched her growing belly, feeling the baby kick. She had never imagined herself sharing John with Chaya and Mara, but she had made the decision and was genuinely happy about it.

As Teyla retreated to her office in New Atlantis, she couldn't shake off the lingering thoughts. The recent turn of events had taken a toll on her emotionally, but seeing John, Chaya, and Mara find a way to navigate their complex relationship gave her hope.

And now, they were dealing with Commander Booth and his imminent transfer back to Earth for a court martial.

Teyla sighed and settled into her office chair, contemplating what lay ahead. She knew the decision to send Booth back to Earth was necessary for the stability of their operations, but it weighed heavily on her heart. She had seen first-hand the sacrifices made by the people of Atlantis, and each departure reminded her of the precariousness of their existence.

A Few Minutes Later

Meanwhile, Colonel Anne Teldy, New Atlantis' second-in-command, hurried through the bustling corridors. Her blonde highlights caught the light as she adorned the standard black Atlantis uniform with a utility vest. She had been tasked with escorting Commander Booth from the brig to the Gate—a routine procedure, but one that still required attention to detail given the circumstances.

As Teldy entered the brig, she found Lt. Vega and Sergeant Mehra waiting for her, ready to assist. The three officers exchanged curt nods, exhibiting the camaraderie forged through their shared experiences. Teldy directed her fellow officers to help prepare Booth for his transfer while she reviewed the necessary paperwork.

Major Alicia Vega tapped the forcefield on the jail cell where Jared Booth was being held. She was a hot head who would rather be fighting the Wraith instead of waiting for missions between missions. Her jet black hair bounced as she paced impatiently. "Why do we have to escort this loser?" Vega asked her commanding officer, her frustration evident in her tone, as she looked at Jared. "Sorry."

"None taken," Jared replied. He knew what he had done. Spying for the Goa'uld was an unforgivable offense, and he had paid the price by being confined to the brig of New Atlantis

Sergeant Dusty Mehra chuckled at her team member's outburst. Dusty was known for her laid-back nature and ability to find humor in the darkest of situations. "You know what we do to Goa'uld spies."

Major Vega sighed as she reminisced about fighting the Goa'uld. "I miss the good old days."

"You were in high school when the Goa'uld system Lords were defeated," Mehra said, a hint of amusement in her voice.

"They're still a threat." Vega's voice hardened. "Now they're hiding in someone on Earth."

With Commander Jared Booth's hands securely restrained, the former Naval Intelligence officer now deemed a double agent to the Lucian Alliance, was being escorted through the bustling corridors of New Atlantis. The city hummed with activity as scientists and military personnel scurried about their duties. Teldy, Vega, and Mehra, formidable members of the team, maintained a tight grip on Booth as they navigated through the maze-like corridors, determined to hand him over to Tau'ri Security for his impending court martial.

"Move it, traitor," Vega barked at Booth, her voice dripping with contempt.

"I didn't work for the Goa'uld by choice," Booth retaliated, his voice edged with defiance.

"Yeah, tell it to the Judge Advocate General," Vega retorted dismissively.

As they made their way through the maze-like corridors, Booth's desperation began to creep into his voice. "They have my Padme," he exclaimed.

"Padme Amidala, right?" Vega scoffed, brushing off his words as a desperate attempt to bargain.

"Not Padme Amidala, Padme Dalaj, my wife," Jared clarified.

The skepticism in Teldy's voice was palpable. "Why would the Goa'uld want your wife? I checked your record, there's no mention of Padme Dalaj."

Jared Booth let out a giggle. "Why would I mention my wife's name on a public record? The Goa'uld have spies in U.S. government agencies."

"The U.S. Government are defunct after the formation of the United Earth Alliance," Vega stated matter-of-factly.

"You are talking about a shadow government that doesn't exist," Mehra replied.

"Yeah, how do you know?" Jared said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Ba'al is in control of that shadow government."

The three women stopped in their tracks when Booth mentioned Ba'al's control over a shadow government. Teldy's grip tightened on his collar as she forced him against the wall. "You know something, don't you?" she demanded.

With a mixture of fear and determination in his eyes, Jared admitted, "Most of my career in the Navy was spent working undercover as a double agent for the UEA Navy and the Lucian Alliance. I asked Colonel Telford to compromise my identity for a faction loyal to Ba'al."

Teldy's mind raced as she contemplated the information revealed. Her instincts told her that Booth wasn't lying. They had to find a way to verify his claims and potentially stop an imminent threat.

"President Hayes knows. Ba'al mentioned someone in the UEA Congress is going to assassinate him during the Joint Session to transition the UEA into the Tau'ri Federation," Jared said.

"Why didn't you come forward to General Sheppard or Teyla?" Teldy asked, her voice quivering with a mix of curiosity and concern.

"I have. She agreed to the transfer to Earth. As for General Sheppard, he has problems of his own. His ex-wife Nancy has been brainwashed by Ba'al himself," Booth revealed, his voice laden with worry.


West Pier, New Atlantis City

New Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy

1400 HOURS - NAT (New Atlantis Time)

Henry Hayes, Queen Mara, Ladon, Radin, Sora Tyrus, and Larrin materialized in the transporter on the West Pier of New Atlantis City. As the door opened, the group stepped out and breathed the fresh air of their newly discovered world. The city, buried under layers of dirt and greenery for thousands of years, had been unearthed by a powerful disintegrator beam, revealing its stunning architecture.

The Corp of Engineers and Functionaries scurried around, ensuring that everything was in working order. The massive crescent-shaped building caught Henry's attention immediately. It was a perfect structure to convert into a Governing Council building. The team had managed to clean it up, restoring its splendor.

Inside the building, a large room welcomed them. In the center stood a huge table, and on it lay a document titled "Tau'ri Federation Defensive Pact." Light fixtures on the ceiling illuminated the room, giving it an ethereal glow. The chairs surrounding the table were enough to house the anticipated delegates for the upcoming summit, which was scheduled to begin in an hour's time.

Henry placed his hands on the leather chair positioned at the end of the table and announced, "This is where we will hold the summit." As he glanced at his watch, he noted that it was 14:00 Hours in New Atlantis time, 2 PM. The summit was scheduled for 1500 – just an hour away.

Turning to Larrin, he inquired, "When will your father arrive?"

"Shortly, sir," Larrin responded politely.

As the others took in the remarkable sight before them, Henry asked Ladon and Sorya, "What do you think?"

Ladon appeared astounded. "I never thought or imagined this would ever happen in such a short amount of time. The transformation is incredible. What about the Coalition of planet members?"

"We've been trying to contact them, but they haven't responded to our calls," Henry explained with concern.