TAU'RI FEDERATIOM

DEFENSIVE PACT

Preamble

Recognizing the imperative significance of collective security and the preservation of peace in the Pegasus Galaxy, we, the undersigned leaders of sovereign states, enter into this Defensive Pact. With a shared commitment to mutual defense and the promotion of stability, we acknowledge the necessity of unified action to confront threats and ensure the well-being of our respective civilizations.

Sentience Charter of Life in the Tau'ri Federation

In recognition of the inherent dignity and inalienable rights of all sentient beings across the vast cosmos, we, the united members of the Tau'ri Federation, hereby establish the Sentience Charter of Life as the foundational constitution governing our collective existence.

Striving for Peace When It's Possible, we embark upon this journey with a shared commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and mutual respect. Conceived in the crucible of collaboration, the Tau'ri Federation emerged as a military alliance, forged by the crucible of necessity in the face of common challenges and threats.

As stewards of the immense diversity of sentient life within our Federation, we acknowledge the profound responsibility entrusted to us. We affirm that every individual, regardless of origin or form, possesses an inherent right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Our shared destiny is woven from the threads of cooperation, understanding, and compassion.

In this union, we aspire to cultivate an environment that nurtures diplomacy and fosters understanding. Striving for Peace When It's Possible, we recognize that the path to tranquility requires commitment, dialogue, and the continuous pursuit of common ground. Through the Sentience Charter of Life, we lay the foundation for a society where differences are celebrated, conflicts are resolved through discourse, and the aspirations of every sentient being are honored.

As we acknowledge our roots as a military alliance, we also emphasize our dedication to transforming this foundation into a bastion of peace. While our origins may have been rooted in the crucible of conflict, our vision is one of unity, harmony, and shared prosperity.

May this Sentience Charter of Life stand as a testament to our collective resolve to build a future where the bonds of friendship transcend the crucible of war. Together, we embark on a journey towards a peaceful coexistence, guided by the principles enshrined in this constitution.

Ratified by the united voices of the Tau'ri Federation on this day, let our commitment to Striving for Peace When It's Possible echo through the cosmos, illuminating our shared path towards a future where the flourishing of sentient life is our paramount goal.

Article 1: Governance and Integration

1.1. Governing Council and Legislative Reformation

In pursuit of effective governance, the Head of States of participating nations shall hold a seat within the established Governing Council. In a concerted effort to streamline decision-making processes and enhance representation, all existing legislative bodies shall be dissolved, and a Senate, comprised of appointed representatives, shall be established.

Article 1. 1: Composition of the Governing Council

1. 1. Role of Head of State in the Governing Council

The Governing Council shall consist of representatives from member worlds, with each member world duly electing its respective Head of State to serve as their representative within the Council.

1. 1a. Election of Heads of State

Member worlds within the Defensive Pact shall conduct democratic elections or follow established procedures to select their Head of State. The elected Head of State shall then assume the responsibility of representing their world's interests and concerns within the Governing Council.

Article 1. 1: Composition of the Governing Council

1. 1a Election of Heads of State

Member worlds within the Defensive Pact shall conduct democratic elections or follow established procedures to select their Head of State. The elected Head of State shall then assume the responsibility of representing their world's interests and concerns within the Governing Council.

1. 1b Functions and Responsibilities

The Heads of State, once seated in the Governing Council, shall actively engage in discussions, deliberations, and decision-making processes regarding matters pertaining to collective security, governance, policies, and strategic initiatives within the Pegasus Galaxy.

1. 1c. Equal Representation

Each Head of State within the Governing Council shall hold equal standing and voting rights. Decisions and actions undertaken by the Council shall be based on consensus or majority agreement, ensuring equitable participation and consideration of viewpoints from all member worlds.

1. 1d Adherence to Collective Interests

Heads of State are expected to act in the best interests of not only their respective member worlds but also in alignment with the overarching goals and principles outlined in the Defensive Pact. Collaboration, cooperation, and a commitment to collective security shall be paramount in all deliberations and decisions made within the Governing Council.

1. 1b. Functions and Responsibilities

The Heads of State, once seated in the Governing Council, shall actively engage in discussions, deliberations, and decision-making processes regarding matters pertaining to collective security, governance, policies, and strategic initiatives within the Pegasus Galaxy.

1. 1c. Equal Representation

Each Head of State within the Governing Council shall hold equal standing and voting rights. Decisions and actions undertaken by the Council shall be based on consensus or majority agreement, ensuring equitable participation and consideration of viewpoints from all member worlds.

1. 1d. Adherence to Collective Interests

Heads of State are expected to act in the best interests of not only their respective member worlds but also in alignment with the overarching goals and principles outlined in the Defensive Pact. Collaboration, cooperation, and a commitment to collective security shall be paramount in all deliberations and decisions made within the Governing Council.

This subsection aims to ensure that the Governing Council is representative, inclusive, and operates in a manner that upholds the diverse interests and perspectives of the member worlds within the Pegasus Galaxy. The active involvement of Heads of State fosters a cohesive approach toward addressing shared challenges and fostering mutual prosperity and security.

Article 1. 2: Prohibition of Surveillance and Spying

1. 2a. Illegal Surveillance and Spying

Member states and prospective applicant states within the Defensive Pact are explicitly prohibited from conducting any form of surveillance, recording, or espionage against each other or any entity within the Pact. Such actions are deemed illegal and in direct violation of the principles of mutual trust and cooperation integral to the Pact's objectives.

1. 2b. Consequences for Participants

Any individual or entity found to have engaged in illegal surveillance, recording, or spying activities within or against a member state shall face severe repercussions. Those identified as participants in such activities will be subject to immediate arrest and subsequent legal proceedings.

1. 2c. Fines

Upon conviction or determination of involvement in illegal surveillance or spying activities, fines will be levied against the responsible individuals or entities. The amount of fines shall be commensurate with the severity and impact of the espionage activities conducted.

1. 2d. Imprisonment

In cases where the severity of the illegal surveillance or spying warrants more stringent measures, imprisonment will be imposed upon the individuals found guilty of perpetrating such actions. The duration of imprisonment will be determined based on the gravity and consequences of the espionage activities undertaken.

1. 2e. Bar from Government Employment

Furthermore, individuals found to have engaged in illegal surveillance or spying activities will be permanently barred from seeking or holding any position within the Tau'ri Federation government or any associated entities, thereby ensuring accountability and deterrents against future misconduct.

The enactment of these measures aims to uphold the integrity, trust, and mutual respect among member states within the Defensive Pact. It emphasizes the absolute prohibition of espionage activities and underscores the severe consequences for violating these foundational principles, thereby fostering a secure and collaborative environment conducive to collective security and cooperation.

1.2. Military Integration

Recognizing the paramount importance of a unified defense force, all military branches, including but not limited to the Tau'ri Federation Navy, Marines, and Special Operations Command (e.g., Stargate Command), shall be integrated into a cohesive entity under the umbrella of the Defensive Pact. This integration aims to foster collaboration, coordination, and efficiency in addressing security concerns across the Pegasus Galaxy.

1.2.1. Tau'ri Federation Navy, Marines, and Special Operations Command Integration

All military personnel, assets, and resources belonging to the Tau'ri Federation Navy, Marines, and Special Operations Command shall function as integral components of the unified defense structure. Cooperation, shared resources, and joint operations shall be prioritized to enhance the overall security apparatus and response capabilities within the Pegasus Galaxy.

As signatories to this Defensive Pact, we affirm our commitment to the principles outlined herein. By fostering unity, collaboration, and collective action, we aim to safeguard our civilizations and promote lasting peace and prosperity in the Pegasus Galaxy.

Article 2: Paygrade of Officers and Enlisted Personnel

2.1. Uniform Pay Standards

To ensure equal and uniformity in compensation across the integrated military branches, paygrades for officers and enlisted personnel shall be established. All ranks within the respective branches shall have a corresponding payrate, denoted in Tau'ri Credits.

2.2. Tau'ri Credit as Currency

Tau'ri Credits shall serve as the official currency for all payments related to military compensation. These credits shall be stored in individual accounts accessible to officers and enlisted personnel. Access to these funds shall be permitted during designated shoreleave periods or for authorized purchases from approved food, matter fabrication units or other authorized vendors.

2.3. List of Ranks and Corresponding Payrates

The following list outlines the ranks within the respective military branches and their associated payrates denoted in Tau'ri Credits:

Tau'ri Federation Navy:

Ensign: 500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Lieutenant: 800 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Lieutenant Commander: 1,200 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Commander: 1,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Captain: 2,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Commodore: 2,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Rear Admiral: 3,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Vice Admiral: 3,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly) Admiral: 4,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle (monthly)

Tau'ri Federation Marines:

Private: 400 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Lance Corporal: 600 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Corporal: 800 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Sergeant: 1,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Staff Sergeant: 1,200 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Gunnery Sergeant: 1,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Master Sergeant: 1,800 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Sergeant Major: 2,200 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Command Sergeant Major: 2,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle

Second Lieutenant: 1,200 Tau'ri Credits per cycle First Lieutenant: 1,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Captain: 1,800 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Major: 2,200 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Lieutenant Colonel: 2,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Colonel: 3,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Brigadier General: 3,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Major General: 4,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Lieutenant General: 4,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle

Special Operations Command (e.g., Stargate Command):

Technician: 600 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Specialist: 800 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Sergeant: 1,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Master Sergeant: 1,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Chief Master Sergeant: 2,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Senior Chief Master Sergeant: 2,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle

Lieutenant: 1,200 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Captain: 1,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Major: 1,800 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Lieutenant Colonel: 2,200 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Colonel: 2,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Brigadier General: 3,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Major General: 3,500 Tau'ri Credits per cycle Lieutenant General: 4,000 Tau'ri Credits per cycle

These payrates for SOC officers are established to recognize the specialized skills, training, and responsibilities inherent in the operational duties within the Special Operations Command. They aim to ensure competitive compensation that reflects the dedication and expertise required for such critical roles in the defense and security of the Pegasus Galaxy.

The utilization of Tau'ri Credits as the standard currency for compensation remains consistent across all military branches, fostering a unified and equal system for remuneration among officers and enlisted personnel.

These payrates are subject to periodic review and adjustment to ensure fair compensation based on duties, responsibilities, and economic considerations within the Pegasus Galaxy.

By standardizing paygrades and utilizing Tau'ri Credits as the currency of compensation, the integrated military branches aim to uphold fairness and consistency in remuneration for all personnel involved.

This article is hereby enacted and ratified by the governing bodies overseeing the integrated military forces, effective immediately upon ratification.


Governing Council Chamber, West Pier

New Atlantis City, New Atlantis

High Admiral Deuxvro had dedicated his life to protecting his people, the Travelers, from the relentless pursuit of the Wraith. For centuries, they had roamed the galaxies, never truly finding a place to call home. But now, seated at the Governing Council chamber, he saw a glimmer of hope in the form of a defensive pact with the Tau'ri Federation, New Atlantis, and the Genii Confederacy.

As High Admiral Deuxvro fiddled with his beard, he peered around the table, taking in the faces of the leaders and representatives gathered there. Ladon Radin of the Genii Confederacy, Chaya Sar, Priestess of Athar from the planet Proculus; who already sign and left, and of course, Queen Mara of New Atlantis who did not need to sign the pact as she had already married General John Sheppard to establish a base for the Tau'ri Federation.

"Mr. President," High Admiral Deuxvro called out to Henry, the Tau'ri leader.

"Yes, Admiral," President Henry Haye responded.

Deuxvro raised his index finger, correcting the President. "It's High Admiral."

Henry smiled and nodded. "Of course, High Admiral."

With slight amusement, the High Admiral continued, "As per the provisions of the Defensive Pact, we have no planet of our own to call home. All of my people live in ships, only landing on planets for supplies and trade. We have no interest in controlling any planet, but after 10,000 years of hiding from the Wraith, we have grown tired."

"We welcome you on our planet," Queen Mara warmly replied. "Your people will find New Atlantis a very hospitable place."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," High Admiral Deuxvro said, relieved to hear her welcoming words.

President Hayes interjected, "From what General Sheppard reported, your ships need a lot of work."

"If I were to sign this defensive pact," Deuxvro stipulated, "how will my... our forces integrate into the larger structure? We are used to operating independently and I would not want to be a hindrance to the Tau'ri or any other signatory's efforts."

President Hayes chuckled. "I understand your concern, High Admiral. Your people have a long and proud history of independence, and we wouldn't want to change that. But as part of the Tau'ri Federation, your people will be assimilated into our military structure as full partners. We don't expect you to change who you are; of course, your people will be trained and integrated into our forces."

Relieved by the President's understanding, Deuxvro replied, "I see."

Curiosity bloomed on his face as Deuxvro glanced out the window, observing the construction of an orbital space station. "Mr. President, when I came to this system, I saw your forces constructing an orbital space station. Will it attract the Wraith?"

President Hayes smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry about the Wraith, Admiral. We've placed cloaked sensor buoys around the solar system to alert us if any Wraith come crawling. As for the Space Dock, it's a shipyard, dry dock, and guest quarters for your people and other allies to refuel, rearm, and rest. It's a symbol of our commitment to each other's safety and prosperity."

Ladon Radin of the Genii Confederacy finally spoke up, addressing the Queen, the High Admiral, and the President, "Your Majesty, High Admiral, Mr. President, Teyla. Will the Genii from the previous government be given amnesty?"

Sora, a representative of Atlantis, reminded the group, "The Genii took up arms against Atlantis before the regime change."

Teyla, a prominent leader among the Athosians, spoke up with compassion, "I cannot speak for the Queen and the High Admiral, but I can say that I have no desire for further bloodshed. If the new leadership of the Genii Confederacy truly wishes to join us in peace, we will welcome them with open arms."

Queen Mara nodded in agreement. "Indeed, I share Teyla's sentiment. If the Genii truly seek peace, we would be more than happy to help them rebuild their society and find their place within our alliance."

High Admiral Deuxvro, thoughtful, responded, "I don't know what happened between the Genii and Atlantis before, but I have nothing against the people of the Genii Confederacy."

President Hayes, satisfied with the discussion, nodded. "Anything to add, High Admiral?" He scanned the faces around the table, inviting them to speak.

"No," Deuxvro said. "I think that's all for now."

"Without further ado, then, let us proceed to the signing of the Tau'ri Federation Defensive Pact," Queen Mara declared, summoning a nearby tablet. With a few taps, a holographic image of the treaty materialized above the table.

"This document will serve as a symbol of our unity and determination to defend ourselves against any threat," President Henry Haye, the leader of the Tau'ri Federation, declared as he signed the treaty. "We stand together, side by side, with the people of New Atlantis, the people of Athos, as well as our newest allies, the High Admiral Deuxvro of the Travelers and the people of the Genii Confederacy. Together, we will build a brighter future for all of us."

Queen Mara of New Atlantis nodded. "Indeed, we have much to learn from each other, and much to gain." She turned to High Admiral Deuxvro. "We welcome you and your people aboard the Tau'ri Federation, and we look forward to a long and fruitful partnership."

Ladon Radin, representative of the Genii Confederacy, looked thoughtful before accepting the treaty. "On behalf of the Genii, I accept this pact. We have suffered much at the hands of the Wraith, and we are grateful for the opportunity to begin anew. We pledge our loyalty and our resources to the protection of this alliance."

High Admiral Deuxvro nodded. "As do I, on behalf of the Travelers. Our people have long sought a home, and we are honored to find it among such honorable and courageous allies. We will fight to defend this pact with all our strength."


Chaya was about to enter the transporter with Teyla, Queen Mara, Torren and Little John when she felt something. She felt John's mind is elsewhere. "Go ahead of me." Chaya said to the two ladies. "I will be right there." She smiled.

"Is something wrong?" Teyla askes with concern as Chaya lingers behind, her gaze fixed on John.

"It's our husband." Chaya replied, her gaze is at John sitting in his office at Stargate Operations. "He's been... distracted. I think something's on his mind." She paused, considering how to phrase her next thought. "I'm not sure if it's something I should worry about, but I can't help but feel that maybe I should..." Her voice trailed off, uncertainty clouding her expression.

"Perhaps we should speak to him about it?" Teyla suggested gently. She glanced back at the two women still standing in the transporter. "Or perhaps he would like share with you privately, Chaya?"

Chaya hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Yes, perhaps you're right. I'll speak to him." She walked over to John, who seemed deep in thought. "John?" she said softly, touching his arm.

He started, looking up at her with a guilty expression. "Oh, hi, Chaya. I was just..." He trailed off, clearly not sure what to say.

"It's all right." She smiled reassuringly as she reached out to take his hand, giving it a squeeze as john places her hand on his cheek. "I could tell something was on your mind."

"The harbingers..." He hesitated, searching for the right words. "I can't shake the feeling that something big is coming, Chaya. I've been going through the files on the Ancient database, and there's not a lot of information on them. I went through the Pavel Chekov flight data records and found the similar design that me, Teyla, Ronan and Mckay encountered in another universe."

"Did you say Harbinger?" Chaya asked as she leaned in closer to him and gave him a knowing look that she knows something that he doesn't.

"You know something." John says as he looks at her with a concern look.

Chaya sighed. "I'm not sure how much I should tell you, John. When I was mortal." She hesitated, searching for the right words.

"Around 10,000 years ago before you ascended." John finished her sentence for her.

"Yes, back then. I was part of a research team with Janus." She paused, looking away for a moment. "I was 36 years old before the war with the Wraith started." Chaya took a deep breath and continued. "The Lantean council was split developing a new weapon code name Harbinger after a disastrous replicator experiment on Asura."

Chaya looked back at John. "It's a weapon of last resort, but we didn't know that at the time. We thought it could help end the war." She sighed.

"What kind of weapon?" John asked, leaning in closer. He knew Chaya well enough to know that whatever she was about to tell him would be important.

"It's... complicated." Chaya hesitated, searching for the right words. "The Harbinger were Cyborg Wraith hybrid, programmed to devour Wraith...something went wrong." She sighed.

"I didn't know you were a scientist, Chaya." John said, a hint of awe in his voice. "You must have blocked that memory when we shared each other." He paused, searching for the right words. "I don't know how I feel about that, to be honest. But it's the past, and we can't change it."

"I know." Chaya said with a soft voice.

He showed her the video of the battle that the Pavel Chekov had recorded, and she watched it intently, her expression growing more and more grave. "This is the same design I encountered in another universe while I was trapped on another Daedulas" John said.

"They're called Reaper Drones; they piloted the Stinger Interceptor in swarms to overwhelm the Wraith and board the hive." Chaya explained as she watched the video intently.

"Luckily the Chekov detonated their nuclear warhead to distract them while they escaped." John said. He paused for a moment and then added. "I can't help but feel that whatever I'm supposed to do, it's coming soon."

"Are you hungry?" Chaya asked, changing the subject. "The banquet is just started, or you want too..." John pull Chaya closer to him and kisses her lips as his hand went down to her waist. "I was hoping we could find a more private place." He whispered.

Chaya began to glow with light as her form shifted into a ghostly form. "No one can see us naked," she whispered, her voice teasing as she slipped her hand into his, locking into each other's gaze.

John look up and down on her naked form and then back to her eyes. He pull her close to him as they start to walk hand in hand to a more private place. He kisses her neck as they walk and she moans softly, enjoying the feel of his lips against her skin. The more excited Chaya is, brighter she becomes. It's like they're walking through a dimly lit hallway, with the only light coming from her. They turn a corner and find a small alcove, hidden away from the rest of the room. The walls are covered in soft velvet, and a large, comfortable-looking bed is nestled in the corner. John sets Chaya down on the bed, her glow bathing the room in a warm, inviting light. He begins to undress, his muscles rippling in the dim light as he reveals his toned, hard body. Chaya watches him with hungry eyes, her breath coming faster and faster.

Once they are both naked, John climbs onto the bed and lies down beside her. He trails his fingers across her stomach, feeling the warmth of her skin against his. Chaya arches her back, her breasts pressing into his chest as she moans softly. He leans in to kiss her, their tongues dancing together in a sensual, passionate embrace. She wraps her legs around him, pulling him closer, and he feels the hardness of his arousal against her. He begins to kiss and nibble his way down her neck, sucking gently on her collarbone as he works his way lower. Her glow intensifies, bathing the room in an almost ethereal light.

As he kisses and nibbles his way further down her body, Chaya's breath comes faster and faster. She digs her nails into his shoulders, arching her back to give him better access to her curves. He continues his exploration, taking his time to savor every inch of her. When he reaches her hips, he spreads her legs wide, and she gasps as he finds her entrance. He teases her, circling her sensitive folds with his fingers, feeling the heat emanating from her core. Chaya's ghostly form shudders with anticipation, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Finally, he pushes two fingers inside her, filling her completely, and she cries out, her body trembling beneath him.

After it was over, they are in John's office. Chaya is lying on the couch, her body still glowing from the intensity of their lovemaking. John is sitting in a chair opposite her, watching her as she catches her breath. The air is heavy with the scent of their sweat and sex, and the soft light from the lamp casts long shadows across the room. Chaya turns her head to look at him, her eyes still glassy with desire.

"That was amazing," she whispers.

"Now I'm hungry." John said with a grin. "Let's head out to the banquet at the mess." He gets up from his chair and walks over to Chaya, offering her his hand. She takes it, letting him pull her up. She glances around the office, noticing the various pictures and mementos scattered about.

"This office has changed so much since I last saw it," she says, looking around.

John laughs. "Yeah, it's been a while. But I'm still me, even if my surroundings change." He guides her toward the door, and they step out into the hallway. The noise of the banquet is more apparent now, and the smell of food fills their noses. Chaya's stomach grumbles, reminding her how hungry she is.