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Chapter 32 Arrival – SGC Gate Room Earth
Standing in the Gate Room watching the Stargate's blue gently pulsating puddle while waiting for the Midway team from Atlantis to walk out of it, General Landry, even though he knew it by heart, he silently ran through the SGC's cover story to check it and as a distraction. - All official records, if anyone checked, showed and proved SGC was in maintenance mode, Siler and his maintenance team's records and technical reports, would bore them ridged anyway. Staff not needed for maintenance work were recorded as either on retraining exercises, catching up on paper work, visiting Odyssey or on leave. Nothing out of the ordinary there. The tale tale energy spike that went with the Gate being used had stopped once Jack put in the new battery, the base kept that skeleton crew on and the cover story for the Gate began.
So, there were no visible records of that trip to Atlantis, the ones to Alpha site passing on their new battery and bringing home people hiding there, the same went for Gibb's trip to and from Midway. The NCIS trips using Odyssey were all covered and sealed by the President's mission to root out the bad boys, so no problem there. Obviously no mention or whisper of the Nox family looking after Earth, if needed it would be the usual one liner Jack style, 'they popped in said hi and popped out again.' Oh yeah, he'd learnt a lot from Jack about what to leave out and put in since starting his SGC command.
Coming out of memory and back to today and where he was standing, Landry gave a slight smile and silent nod, welcoming the fact this Mountain was his again and had lost that sleepy feeling, even with just that skeleton crew on hand. The familiar special buzz was running through the place again. The infirmary and security officers were ready and on alert even though this was a classed as safe and quiet arrival. To make sure their cover story was right, that tell tale energy spike had been registered when they opened the Stargate, was still registering as they waited for the Midway team to actually arrive. Bringing with them 'that' newly found Ancient battery, 'that' would be fitted and brought into use, and then everyone could relax and officially enjoy the benefits. That would be done after the visitors who were tucked up in the mess hall had their round trip to the Alpha site later that day and returning the next day according to earth time.
Officially and on record they were waiting for three people in Midway team, there would be no record of Colonel Mitchell or the extra luggage that would be guarded by the elite security team till it and the contents of Sam's house were delivered to the Waterfall Site. That extra luggage would be put down as the battery, hence Siler and those guards waiting silently near the Gate ready to receive it. Cameron Mitchell like the others were on record as being in the Mountain and would officially and physically surface, when he signed out and they left the Mountain to carry out General O'Neill's orders, the other cover stories including Jack's were on going and waiting for the finer details to be worked out.
As for the smooth running of this operation, Hank knew without the Nox's twig communicator it would have been impossible and he rather liked it now he got used to working it. With it, he had that important unofficial update with General Shepard and his team so each side knew what to do, and the fact they needed the elite security team for Cameron when he came through the Gate. On record, officially and in fact, the message telling Atlantis to open their Gate to Stargate Command and send the correct survival package through, and if that arrived safely, the Midway team could immediately return to Earth for their rest period and next mission, was done through the space ships Odyssey and Daedalus, which were already in place in space covering communications between Atlantis to Earth, not only while the Gate was out of action but in case SGC went down during the troubles on earth.
It had all gone very smoothly, in fact and on the official record. It was privately noted by the Atlantis team and Hank that their visual link in the Gate had returned to 'blue puddle' mode as soon as Shepard had put in the survival package and cleared as soon as it arrived on floor of the Gate room. It was repeated when the Midway team stepped into the Gate and Hank had to be satisfied with the verbal acknowledgement that Mitchell and luggage joined the group and were on their way. As for that official record of this trip it would read the Gate from Atlantis was opened and the survival package arrived successfully and the Midway team … would … had arrived successfully. As usual there would not be any in depth note that they used Midway and all the Gates, that would be assumed by the reader. In fact they were coming the smoother direct route … one Gate straight to the other.
With the whispers of concern about the team between Gates starting again, because this bit of waiting always got to him, Hank gave a gentle huff, and turned to call up to Walter, who was on the higher level at the Gate's computer, overseeing what was happening. He didn't get a chance to voice his concern, as Walter called out. "The connection with Atlantis is still intact sir. They will arrive in 10 minutes according to information from the Gate's computer, and the Nox confirm they sense nothing wrong in this area of space.
Not surprised Walter had beaten him to it, the man knew him and the job only too well, so feeling reassured, Hank called out. "Thank you," before adding, "Make sure your relief officer is ready to take over when the group arrive. I will need you in the conference room." Knowing full well the man had everything under control, could run the place blindfolded, as Jack had said with a smile, on Hank's introduction visit to SGC.
As Walter respectfully confirmed it was all in hand, Hank's attention was drawn to the person now walking down the stairs from the conference room as the main heavy doors to the Gate room were closed. Recognising her as she came into view, and noting she'd changed from her civilian casual slacks and jumper to SGC's visiting officers' black BDUs, he relaxed, and returning her greeting smile asked."Everything running smoothly Ma'am?" He had not seen her or the group, which included her husband, two sons and daughter, along with Taft and his wife, since their arrival via Odyssey, that morning, as he had to immediately hand them over to the introduction and medical teams.
The Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Roberta Green was still smiling as she came to stand beside Hank at the bottom of the stairs, and with a slight chuckle added. "To my surprise, my Ancient hubby and children are still rather like excited kids in a toy shop, in spite of the extensive medical they've been through. Of course going 'upstairs', seeing 'that' view from the Odyssey and the pending visit to the Alpha site this evening, has taken the sting out the medical and are still amazed by the lecture they've listened to about SGC. We've all had our light meal ready for our trip later today, and I've left hubby and sons brain storming ideas for the future, while my daughter, Taft and his wife are in a huddle planning what they want in the medical unit at the Waterfall site."
Returning her chuckle and smile, as he could remember his own reactions to that story and he could feel her excitement about the trip that had been arranged at short notice, having been informed the Gate could be officially used, rather than keeping it all off the record, Hank checked. "And you?"
Looking at the Stargate's blue puddle, remembering what she'd witnessed when Atlantis contacted them, and knowing she could trust Hank, Roberta commented seriously. "Full of excitement at the moment, but will be a bag of nerves just before stepping into that blue puddle, and hoping I'll not disgrace myself when stepping out the other side. After all, I'm representing the whole service now, not just the Air Force or the Ancient mum and family who can turn on lights and start machinery without touching anything."
She couldn't stop her chuckle as her mind flipped back to Gibbs and Emily's visit with that 'Ancient' ball to confirm or dismiss the family Ancient gene. How as soon as her oldest two saw the ball in Emily's hand had immediately exclaimed with disbelief, believing a trick of some kind was going to be played on them, "A space ball! Mum that's a kids toy! It lights up as soon as you throw it and dies in your hand!" Nothing had been said about SGC or the Ancient gene, and the ball stayed dark in Emily's hand, because she could control what it did. So it only lit up when Gibbs caught it from her and he immediately threw it to one of the children. From then on it had flicked into life as it went round her family and the group relaxed and were told a special gene was needed for it to happen, but not all the details. Only the eldest son's wife, who was expecting their first child in four months time was not there. She'd been visiting her own parents then and with them now. As it seemed to be a unique family group, and too good a chance to miss, it had been agreed Roberta's daughter, being a medical officer, would take a blood sample and deliver it to the infirmary today, so they could find out whether she had the Gene as well or might indicate if the baby had it. Nothing would be done to harm mother or baby, and Roberta's mind flashed back to the extensive medical and how it must affect these unique officers making her ask. "Your people don't have to go through that medical each time they travel, do they?"
Thinking about the complaints that would be made if they did, Hank replied with feeling. "No. But they do have check ups before they go and when they come back. We have to make sure we don't transfer any kind of illnesses to other planets or bring them back, so there are a few days before they have it and after they return they are either kept on base or they can stay home but restricted visits into town. The one today along with your family history gives our people a base line to follow and hopefully a better picture of the Ancient gene." Remembering information he'd not known before Hank commented easily. "I didn't realise your eldest were twins considering their birth years."
With a nod, Roberta replied, "Yes, one being born one side of midnight and the other during New Year day does make life interesting and you don't recite your birthdates to everyone, mainly just on forms. They decided at an early age they enjoyed the difference, so never made a song and dance about it, as they are not identical in looks or gender they tended to be in different circles of friends as they've grown up. Both are very independent people, can be very stubborn and have their feet firmly on the ground, now though, they've joined my youngest and probably my husband with flights of fancy among the stars." She finished with a smile.
Taking a deep breath, and turning her thoughts back to Hank's questions she added. "Seeing the Gate room in Atlantis instead of the blue puddle we see now I'm sure will help those nerves, make the distance and time travelling less daunting." Unable to stop her slight sigh about the whole thing and eyeing Hank knowing he would understand completely, she continued. "Some of your people were swapping horror stories about first journeys when I left the gang, I'm glad to say they don't seem to bothered by it. As I need to keep up appearances Hank, how do I cope with coming out the other side, without making a mess of it." From her own time in the service she totally understood the team banter and her mind did another jump regarding Hank's rank and future, that made her add quietly with true feeling. "We both know sending our teams out or waiting for them to come home doesn't get any easier higher up the ranks we climb or the change in work place. We still want to be out there with them making sure they do come home rather than not come home at all, and we've both had those." she finished with a gentle but heart felt huff.
Hank knew what she meant, and from his talks with Jack about being at DC, it would not matter that the number of people under his care would be greater than SGC, and he would be away from the action of teams going out on missions, would be dealing with the larger overall picture of our growing space force, he, like Jack did, would feel it for all of them, and with a nod of understanding said. "I agree with all that, but we also know how we face up to it all helps our teams do their work, and our experiences are helping those who work with and will follow us."
Seeing her nod of agreement, Hank lowered his voice and changing his tone for the personal conversation between them, carried on. "Regarding the journey through the Gate, you don't feel time when you are travelling in it, unfortunately it is not easy to explain in words the rush you feel, just that it is not a harsh or painful feeling. Although you might feel a bit cold as you walk out on the other side, it doesn't last long, and we have found it goes away or your body adapts to it after you've gate travelled a few times, so there is no problem. Also, Alpha Site is on a planet very similar to Earth and that helps to anchor your mind and forget the distance you've travelled." With a slight smile of memory, he added. "Having said that, the differences are very interesting and beautiful, unfortunately you cannot take photos or discuss it after you've returned here."
Not waiting for her comment, he turned serious as he admitted. "On my first journey through the Stargate, I was told to forget about that blue puddle being there, it is not wet or solid. Just walk in at a slow steady pace, concentrate on what I knew about the other side, while automatically click into my training of being fully alert and protecting my group and by doing that I would walk out in the right manner." His slight easy smile came back as he added. "I'm glad to say it worked. I stayed upright, alert and knew where everyone was as I walked out and met the people waiting for us. You do not change places with anyone in your group while travelling, so you come out in the same formation and speed you go in. Which has lead to a suggestion that we put down foam matting on the floor when we know they are coming through at speed."
Seeing her smile at that, Hank finished. "I must admit I was the only one with my guide, and it was a quiet time at Alpha Site's gate room, as it will be for you and your group. Those greeting you fully understand about first time travellers, because they were there when General Hammond had to start evacuating a group of civilians a few years ago and some of them decided to stay and help build up what is there today."
Relaxing a bit as she found his words reassuring, Roberta couldn't help checking gently. "Would you have told me if it was any different? I'm guessing Jack was your guide, so how did he swing that as he was not meant to go off world?"
Hank chuckled and answered. "I would have told you if I threw up or stumbled on exit, but I didn't, and yes Jack was my guide..." before he could finish, their attention was drawn to the quick and purposeful footsteps on the stairway from the conference room, so they stayed silent and watched the person come into view and briskly walk over to them.
The officer stopped in front of Hank and silently taking in General Green beside him, gave a nod and Ma'am as a greeting and acknowledgement to her rank, before immediately giving a nod to Hank and asking. "Sir, do I brief you now or in private?"
Knowing Roberta was the unexpected person here and in uniform so was assumed to be on duty, hadn't been or mentioned at the earlier link up with Atlantis, and he'd not brought her up to date, Hank nodded and explained. "Here will be fine, Midway group will be arriving in a couple of minutes. General Green is going to Alpha site with her family and has full clearance regarding what else is happening today but has not been brought up to speed yet." Seeing the officer nod, Hank glanced at Roberta to do the introduction saying. "This is Major Molly Adams, deputy officer of our elite security group and along with Colonel Jones will be in charge of Colonel Mitchell's security once he leaves SGC on his mission, and especially when he's in DC." before facing the officer concerned and asking. "Did you manage to contact Colonel Jones?"
"Yes sir. He's in DC with Agent Gibbs and his special team and is needed to stay there, it is not a major incident but needs both officers to tidy up a lose end quickly. He decided Colonel Mitchell and myself should meet them in Agent Gibbs' broom cupboard at Naval Yard, using the Odyssey for transport and go on from there. As Colonel Mitchell didn't go into details in our earlier link up, as soon as he's explained the details to you and myself, if you agree I will contact Colonel Jones again via Agent Gibbs's twig communicator rather than the usual methods." then directing her attention to Roberta added with a smile. "You will love Alpha site and the Gate trip is good, Ma'am. That was my first trip through the gate, I walked out and immediately talked to the group waiting for us."
Though taken back by the fact Cameron would need the extra security while at DC, Roberta couldn't help smiling at Molly's obvious delight at the mention of a trip to Alpha site, or the nickname for NCIS new unit's communication area, and commented. "That so called broom cupboard is in what used to be an unused building, with well concealed entrance and exit, and the 'office' is large enough to accommodate 20 people and with technology being added that NORAD would be envious of, if they knew about it. It also has rooms to accommodate those guests without arousing anyone's attention, if needs be."
Walter's announcement "Ma'am, Sir, travellers arriving in one minute. Security officers to positions." brought their attention back to the Gate and tension immediately rose as Hank commanded. "Remember people though visual record is off, audio and written recordings are now on." and so both Major and General could see him, Hank immediately signalled for their attention, silence and alertness by a silent nod followed by bringing his hand up to his face and using to fingers to point to his eyes and then bringing them down and brushing them quickly across his closed lips then faced the Gate.
Roberta, along with Molly, immediately nodded their agreement and understanding that they should keep alert and silent, unless brought into whatever was happening and keep things short and to the point. Then like everyone else, watched with anticipation, as the blue puddle started to ripple just before the first person seamlessly and silently walked out of it.
Alertness, fascination and awe as she watched what was happening drove any questions out Roberta's mind for now, she expected the blue puddle to form some kind of corridor for the others to walk out from. It didn't, it closed up completely while the person carried on walking into the room.
Coming to a halt so there was enough room for anyone to come through the gate behind him, and still protect them, if needs be Major Darrian Peters immediately took in who was in the room and seeing the unexpected officer, checked. "All Safe? Sir."
Hank immediately answered. "All safe, carry on." knowing the Major would react to protect Colonel Mitchell if he'd given the 'danger/change of plan' word instead of the safe one meaning carry on as planned, the stranger in the room was no threat and to be ignored. They both knew there was no turning back once you entered the Gate, and Hank knew General Green was astute enough to go with the flow and ask questions later, also Colonel Jones had been expected to be there but as Molly had been at the earlier meeting so knew some of what was going happen. He just had to hope the others on Atlantis would also adapt as necessary.
Fully alert to the fact a code had been passed between the two men and no adverse action taken, Roberta carried on pondering, while paying attention to what was unfolding before her. She'd assumed Colonel Cameron Mitchell would be the first one through the gate and silently join General Landry to watch the others come through safely, or go straight to the conference room and wait for a private debriefing there. Tucking that thought away for now, she reckoned the visual recording had not been working for the group's earlier meeting either, probably marked up as officially and technically 'down and noted for repair'. Rather than just being switched off and no record of why made, which could provoke questions from any other official nosing around in the future. She knew all documents/orders arising from this Atlantis trip could be accounted for as being done via the space ships links rather pointing to the fact the Gate was used or a certain General had travelled through the said Gate when it was technically out of use and he should have been safely tucked in at SGC anyway.
After her last visit to the Gate room, Roberta had studied the notes on the Midway team, and noted with interest Major Peters move to one side in such a way he could see the other come through, and possibly more importantly they would see him and General Landry immediately, why was that important? The question got lost as Capitan Mike Smith and Pamela Drayson emerged in the same easy every day occurrence fashion, and Roberta found her subconscious fears about her own trip disappear, and again spotted though the pair relaxed slightly after getting those silent nods for reassurances, they still stayed alert and watchful. Not only that they didn't join the Major as she expected them to do, instead they stopped in a formation that meant Colonel Cameron Mitchell would step into a protected zone. So what was going on?
Careful not to give any outward sign, Roberta wondered if her mind was hyper active and playing tricks on her, after all she couldn't be considered the physical enemy, ready to kill anyone or blow the whistle on whatever was going to happen here. She was, after all, part of this very special space family, trusted with 'that' deeper secret of the Atlantis trip. But, she was the unexpected person in the room, had not been around when whatever is going to happen was set up. True, her known rank and time had protected her from being barred from the conference room and therefore Gate room, and General Hank Landry could have told her to leave, he hadn't and seemed at ease with her just turning up and chatting. He also knew from their meetings and her past, she could read situations very quickly and react level headedly should the unexpected happened, she had after all flown planes in war zones etc.
Silently admitted this was intriguing and definitely better than waiting in the mess hall with the others. She reckoned the tensions she could see were because cover stories were being firmed up, rather than a physical harm threat. Those silent okay signals were so everyone knew they could carry on as planned so the audio recording would flow smoothly with no sign of correction, or foot in mouths happening. She had no doubt Atlantis City being far in advance of Earth's technology could or had 'taken' Colonel Mitchell out of the picture, visually and verbally, of the early meeting or him walking into the Atlantis's Gate, so not a problem or worry that or this end. As for SGC's written account, well, Walter was in charge of that, so no worries there either, and had to stop a slight smile from surfacing or turn into a grin, or looking at Hank to silently tell him she understood. In case he and the others thought she was going to blurt something out loud and wreck this carefully worked out plan. Seeing the blue puddle in the gate start to ripple again, Roberta came alert to the situation and could feel her own surge of excitement/anticipation of Colonel Cameron Mitchell joining them.
While Colonel Cameron Mitchell silently walked out of the blue puddle and into the so called safe space, taking in who was in the room and the slight nod of reassurance, General Landry said. "Midway team welcome to Earth. Major Peters, how long before the FREDs carrying your luggage and the Ancient battery from Atlantis arrive?"
Roberta couldn't help her puzzled grin, which started to clear as Major Peters answered. "As we have had the necessary clear travelling space behind us it should arrive within minutes. I believe we will have visual communication with Atlantis City after the FREDs arrive and nothing is travelling through the Gate, now they have put a new battery in the City's computer and gate system. I have the handset and written instructions how to control the FRED carrying the battery once it has travelled through the gate, also on how to install the new battery in the gate. It is an easy operation and will not interfere with the gate's programme, so I will hand the instructions and handset over to the technical team now." and immediately walked across the room to the group who were waiting for the so called 'Ancient battery' to arrive and handed over said handset and instructions.
Smiling at the neat way the new battery, that was already in use in this gate, had been officially introduced to Earth, Roberta noted Cameron's own slight smile and nod, as well as the unusual short jacket he was wearing over his BDUs and assumed it was something he'd picked up on Atlantis and carried on watching the group silently move further away from the gate to allow the two FREDs to arrive, but still kept in full view of it for the link up with Atlantis Major Peters had carefully commented on.
The blue puddle rippled again and the Ancient hovering FRED, with the flashing red and green forcefield making it look like a large ball, so obscuring what it was really carrying, emerged. Though she was expecting it, Roberta couldn't stop her own gasp of awe, while Major Molly Adams excitedly exclaimed "Wow! That is amazing Sir."
Knowing this was the first time anyone on Earth should have seen such a thing, Hank exclaimed "Yes it is Major." Then ordered, "Those who do not have clearance to use it, stay away from it." as they watched it silently glide over to and settle near the technical team, who Major Peters was showing how to use the handset.
Their attention was drawn back to the Gate as the more conventional FRED carrying Midway's equipment trundled through and stopped, till a member of the technical team walked up to it and programmed it to move out the way.
While that was happening, the blue puddle seemed to vanish and everyone in the gate room could suddenly see Atlantis City gate room with General Shepard and Richard Woolsey, watching them as though they were just a step away. Immediately, Hank exclaimed calmly. "This is a nice surprise General Shepard and Richard Woolsey. We only had audio with you when the Midway team started their journey here. Unfortunately our visual recording system is still down but audio is working alright, and we expect it all to be up and running later today, when General Roberta Green and her family and a few others will be travelling to Alpha site as an introduction to SGC and outside interests. I would add as she had been with her family till a few moments ago, I have not been able to bring General Green up date with recent events."
Smiling at the head's up Landry had given him, which meant there was no bad or underhand hidden agenda to General Green being there, John Shepard reckoned things might get interesting if she reacted in the wrong way, and SGC would just have to cope with it, as the voice of Atlantis was happily filtering everything this end. So, with an easy smile and respectful tone he replied. "Ma'am. I am sure you and your family will enjoy your trip, and we hope you might be able to visit our City one day." and promptly sent out a short mental 'stop it!' to the Voice of Atlantis, as it had just sent multi shades of blue lights round the rings and promptly sent a mental message back to John, 'We like her, she is family, your visitors are fun.' and huffed an acceptance of the order by flicking the lights back to normal.
Smiling at the offer and realising from John's sudden flash of a serious expression to something their end, there was more to come and she would need to have her wits about her, Roberta replied easily. "Thank you for the offer and hope to be able to accept it." then changing her tone to serious added. "Stepping back into my official role for a second, I hope you and Mr Woolsey are settling into your new roles and will have a successful commission."
As Richard silently nodded his acknowledgment, John also nodded sensing a whisper of warm mental acceptance from the City and seeing a natural way to take things forward, added. "Thank you ma'am, it is already turning out to be an interesting commission for both of us as you will find out from my update to General Landry." and immediately turned his attention to the man in question.
Still not sure how to address him now they were both Generals, but not of the same standing and were not really in a private situation, he started. "Sir, regarding the situation here in the City, I wish to introduce you to our guest Nafrayu, who was in conference with Lady Lya of the Nox family when we opened the Gate for the Midway team to return to SGC, which meant we were unable to give you an update regarding General O'Neill and Brigadier General Samantha Carter. Ma'am, though timing wise it was done separately they were both transported to a Nox travelling City, as Lady Lya one of their leaders needed their assistance regarding an urgent mission and hopefully sealing a friendship agreement between themselves, the Dragon and Feline space families who live in this galaxy and had been saved by my team when their own craft started to fail as they travelled through space."
Taken totally by surprise by that statement Roberta couldn't stop her exclamation. "He was Thor'd!" and looked sharply sideways at Hank. Seeing his own surprise, she huffed sharply in an official tone. "Well!" and instantly realised her reaction would sound a natural one on their tape, would have looked it if there had been a visual one.
Now Hank was having his own trouble stopping his smile at her exclamation and reaction, as well as a chuckle that threatened to escape as he stated calmly. "Yes ma'am, that is the expression we have used in the past and this time when General O'Neill suddenly disappeared in a bright light from his office here at SGC." then realising what was needed and thinking on his feet, added seriously. "In this case apparently, it was a green light he walked into and then immediately radioed us that he was alright, as no one had been with him at the time. He also informed us that General Carter would be joining him and he would contact us when he could do so, also a representative would be on Atlantis to assist them. Because there was no threat to the officers I decided we would see how things progressed. This is the first time we have been able to be in direct contact with Atlantis City as our Stargate was out of commission and the Nox could not use it to communicate with us. Our radio contact with General O'Neill was very brief as they were soon went out of range. You being here Ma'am, has added that extra level of knowledge to this on going mission that we would have reported in the usual manner, when it had been completed." And nodded towards the Stargate and the group on Atlantis.
Realising she was helping to establish their cover story, and there was often a deeper level in the reports she'd been reading, and these were experts at diverting the truth when needed, Roberta turned her attention back to the gate. As she did so her shocked expression turned to a grin so was glad the recording was just audio, even that was causing Cameron and the Midway team some difficulty as they were trying hard not to laugh at the antics going on in Atlantis's gate room.
In that gate room, knowing how careful they had to be regarding sound over in SGC, John Shepard was miming calming signals with his hands to Nafrayu, who was so full of excited energy, it brightened the colour of his clothes and hair, and making him bounce as he 'walked' into view while glancing at those silent signals John was making.
Getting close to Richard and John and knowing how important this was to his new Atlantis and Earth families he would care for and learn from, Nafryu managed to come to an excited sharp stop. Giving John a quick nod again, he did a quick spinning half turn so he was facing those in the SGC's gate room. Seeing his other new friends had arrived safely on the one place he longed to visit, and everyone was looking relaxed and at ease, Nafryu gave them happy wave and big grin. Which didn't help the Midway team and Cameron who were trying hard to hold back their threatening giggles, while smiling. Nor Richard and John on Atlantis, knowing this was meant to be the serious introduction meeting for Nafryu to General Landry. Not able to say anything or sign anything to the excited Nox as he was facing away from them, they could only stay silent and with bated breath watch this very happy excited Nafryu give those in SGC the expected quick respectful bow of greeting before saying his prepared piece.
To their surprise and relief, there was no hint of Nafryu's obviously hard to control bubbly excitement, when he started to speak in a calm and serious respectful tone. "Ladies and Masters of Stargate Command on the planet Earth. First, may I explain that as a family of the universe we, the Nox family, address our elders and those we respect as Ladies and Masters. With great respect I wish to do the same so I do not get tangled while I give you greetings and message from Ladies Lya and Samantha Carter and Master Jack O'Neill. I should also add though I am young, and have just earned this title of Master and this is my first mission, so all is new to me, it is with great honour I act as messenger and friend to those here on Atlantis City and to you on Earth." then gave a very quick slight nod and bow to show he'd finished.
Mindful of the audio recording, Hank managed to keep his relaxed hint of a smile, while making sure his tone held the cool calm respect of a commander talking to a stranger rather than a known friend, as he replied to the introduction. "Master Nafrayu of the Nox family. I fully understand and accept your respect and words regarding your greeting. We welcome your first mission with Stargate Command and Atlantis City, and hope for a long friendship between our peoples."
With a bouncy nod, bright eyes and large smile, while trying to stop his excited energy making him fidget even more, Nafrayu managed to reply in his very serious tone. "Thank you Master Landry. Lady Lya of the Nox family asked me to pass to you one of our twig communicators so the sudden disappearance of Master O'Neill or Lady Carter does not happen again. I have given it to Lady Drayson of the Midway team, and the written instructions on how to use it to Master Smith, so they can now pass them on to you. It does not need the energy of the travelling gate and is a person to person communicator. If it is convenient to you, it has been suggested that Lady Lya will be able to call you on it at the first 08.00 after your sleep time following this message."
Knowing this was all part of the cover story, but not the full details of it all, as his earlier private twig conversation with John had been very brief and short, Hank watched the officers play their parts by walking towards him and handing over the small brown box and folded paper before they walked over to Major Peters. Rather than back to actually guarding Cameron, knowing it was no longer needed, but all three still stayed alert to all eventualities.
Instinctively needing to check that folded note, after all he knew how to use the communicator, this could be a covert way for Atlantis group to pass on new information about their cover story. But Hank now had the problem of having a box in one hand and paper in the other with nowhere to put either one down, except on the floor and he wasn't going to do that. Giving a sigh of frustration at the situation, he immediately heard Roberta's quiet but clear offer. "Let me hold the box while you read the instructions, General Landry."
Giving her a nod, he handed the box over to her, then unfolded the note, quickly glancing at the neatly written instructions, Hank tilted the paper slightly so Roberta could read the note and icon. While giving a smile and nod first to Cameron and then to John and getting their nods of acknowledgement back, that didn't give him any indication who wrote the last bit.
Under the few lines of instructions and done in a different hand to it, was the drawn emoji round face with eyes closed and three little zzz coming from it, and the message: This is Cameron's twig, please give it to him and ignore details about contact. The Generals will do so through Odyssey when they are entering Earth's orbit and before NORAD has heart failure.
Taking a breath to make sure he would sound cool, calm and controlled, Hank then addressed Nafrayu. "The instructions are very clear. Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from Lady Lya and Master O'Neill at the appropriate time."
With a short nod, Nafrayu started again. "Master Hank, there is other news I wish to pass on. It is with Master O'Neill's agreement, that while he is with Lady Lya, a Nox travelling City will be stationed in Earth's orbit and that your travelling ships the Odyssey and the one that is due to deliver goods to this City should also have our communicators, so either families can give or receive assistance if needed in the future. Also so as not to disrupt the use of your Stargate, Master O'Neill and Lady Carter have asked to be delivered to their cabin in the mountains. This can be done without the local population knowing what is happening, and will enable you and your space families not to worry about the disruption their arrival in SGC may cause.
"To this end, they would like you to contact Master Cameron Mitchell and ask him to deliver fresh food and clothes to their cabin, giving a three day time period from the sleep time after this call as a guide line. Also only Master Cameron and the Midway team should be allowed to attend the Generals' arrival at the cabin. Now, wishing Earth's space family good fortune, I will hand you back to Master John as he has news regarding the travel gate here, now they have put in the new battery that was recovered from one of the towers in this City and given you the other one." Nafrayu immediately bowed and with a bouncy walk moved to one side, turned and facing John and Richard, gave a huge grin and thumbs up with both hands, pleased he'd done it all.
Trying hard to keep his composure and not give the game away as he spoke, John hoped Voice of Atlantis was editing out Nafrayu's antics and felt the gentle voice in his mind. "Of course. This is child's play but fun to watch and do." Not daring to check on Richard, to see how he was doing, John took a breath and channelled his thoughts and started. "General Landry, apart from having visual connection with the connecting Gate, there are two new forcefields that operate, the first one is giving the group going through the Gate to another Gate the medical all clear. If it detects any anomalies or illnesses that will adversely affect either those travelling or when they arrive on the planet, a red forcefield will prevent them from travelling and report the reason to your computer. On Atlantis, it does so through an AI interface that is linked to all the computers on Atlantis. We call it the Voice of Atlantis. The second forcefield will guard against anyone coming through into Stargate Command, it will throw up a protective barrier in front of the entrance and issue a warning on the computer stating what action will be needed."
Hank took in this new information and then stated. "You are saying that the gate gave Midway group a medical and cleared them for travel? What about injured personnel returning home would they be allowed through? Or ones coming in hot. I hate to have our personnel bounced back at the wrong time or extra difficulties on arrival."
John nodded feeling the gentle answer coming through his mind and explained. "Yes Sir. They passed that medical and the Gate sensors will now detect a threatening situation and recognise the home address and make sure they arrived safely and inform SGC of the dangers. It suggests making sure protective suits are close to hand and medical travelling boxes to contain infectious personnel be on hand."
Hank nodded his understanding and added. "The medical travelling boxes ordered on Alpha site by General O'Neill are being delivered when General Green returns to Stargate Command from her visit. If there is no more information to pass on, I believe our allotted time is nearly up General Shepard."
With a nod John finished. "I believe that is all sir, I will send a full report in the usual manner."
"I look forward to seeing that, and congratulate both of you on the first few days of your new mission and hope the rest go smoothly. General Landry Out."
With that, the Stargate returned to the blue puddle before shutting down completely and as everyone got used to seeing the empty Gate, Hank took a breath before commanding. "Midway group you will still visit the infirmary for your return medical. Afterwards go to the mess hall and wait for an officer to collect you for your debriefing here in the conference room. Discuss things in your group if you wish, but be guarded and aware of the group of civilians there. Though they have been cleared for their trip to Alpha site, they do not have full clearance or understanding regarding Atlantis, that General Green has."
Noting the group's silent rather stoic nods of acceptance they would not be able skip the medical etc, Hank, realising the order of things needed changing, turned to the group standing by the so called 'battery' and continued. "Siler, check through those instructions, then change the Gate's battery so the Gate can be used this evening for General Green's visit to Alpha site. Go through the same routine Atlantis did with our Gate to make sure it is safe to be used for the Alpha site group. At the same time warn them of the changes they can expect."
Noting Siler's "Yes Sir. It should take us half an hour to set it all up." Hank gave a slight nod, before turning to General Green and saying formally, for the audio recording. "General Green, Ma'am, if you would like to retire to the conference room I will bring you up to date with the recent events, we touched on in our conversation with Atlantis." Looking up at the computer area he raised his voice slightly and finished. "Walter. I will need you in the conference room as well. As the Gate has shut down and the Midway group are being escorted to the infirmary you may end the audio recording of their return from Atlantis City to SGC gate room."
Walter immediately called out. "Yes Sir. Signing off audio recording as ordered." and finished by reciting time and date as he entered it into the computer for the written record.
Carefully holding the small brown twig communicator box, Roberta walked towards Cameron, who was still staying silent and being ignored by everyone. Reaching his side and handing over the box, she was just going to ask him a question when he stopped her by shaking his head and putting his finger to his lips to impose silence, before pointing in the direction of the stairs. Fully accepting the orders from the Colonel, General Green smiled, nodded and then followed Hank up the stairs knowing Cameron and Molly, the special security officer were silently following her. So silently that she couldn't hear their footsteps on the metal stairs and couldn't understand why there was that need when the audio recording had been turned off.
As soon as they were all in the conference room and the door was closed, Cameron opened the box, took out the twig communicator and announced. "Security check and silence for this meeting." With that the group watched a green haze fill the room in a second, then disappeared and a voice from the twig communicator announced. "Room clear and secure. Master Cameron"
Sensing there was that 'who should go first moment,' Roberta glanced at Hank then Cameron and though her eyes and attitude were still showing her excitement, she jumped in, using her no nonsense full rank official tone stating. "I'm pulling rank and insisting I'm present when Jack and Sam return to Earth at the Waterfall Site. As I am representing the link between SGC and DC, AND (she emphasised) will have to face the Commander in Chief and ban him from going anywhere near the Waterfall Site for the foreseeable future, I will be able to hand over their stars of rank with the right amount of honour and no fuss that Jack and Sam will want." Then with a bright smile as she knew she had the Colonel's full attention added. "I am also intrigued by the jacket you are wearing as it is not made from any earthly made material and is it you that needs protecting in DC or whatever you are carrying for Jack. I also believe we can dispense with rank and just be us on the same level from now on. You and Hank have the floor." she finished with a slight bow to them both, happy to wait it out.
Nodding and with a slight smile, realising how astute General Green was, and not fazed by her attitude, Cameron answered. "Ma'am, you will be welcome at the Waterfall Site. I believe Jack might have second guessed you, in that matter." With a chuckle Roberta muttered. "Of course he would." and with a nod let him carry on. "You are right this jacket was given to me by the Nox family and is a forcefield protecting the papers from General O'Neill that I need to deliver to several Generals in DC, including yourself, and other places. He does not want them falling into the wrong hands as they discuss future plans for our space family." Getting out the documents he wanted, Cameron handed one to Roberta and several to Hank, before turning to Molly and asking. "No disrespect, but where is the Colonel?"
Molly smiled knowing that Colonel Jones's presence had been promised at their earlier discussion with Atlantis, and two Colonels were better at facing awkward situations with Generals than a Colonel and Major, and stated. "None taken. He is in DC with Agent Gibbs and unable to leave the situation at present. So, he suggests we go there via Odyssey rather than land transport, and he will be with us when needed. He also suggested we wear civilian clothes when visiting DC as the dust is still settling after recent events."
Having glanced at the first of his papers and taken in that information, Hank butted in. "So Cameron. How are Cassie and Jon settling in on Atlantis? I see apart from officially confirming Atlantis will help the Nox, U Sang and NightOwl if necessary regarding Destiny. Jack has given you authority to not only argue with certain Generals but also to over ride their arguments if necessary and have my backing to do so." After second or two he smiled and added. "That excludes my orders and views, of course."
Though Cameron gave a nod of agreement to Hank, he sighed and hesitated knowing his update would be difficult, that was just long enough for Roberta to butt in, in her best General tone. "I have that let out clause as well don't I Cameron." Seeing his nod, because Jack had written they were the two Generals he could really trust, open up too and hid behind their rank if needs be. Roberta smiled and in a gentler tone added. "If it will make things easier Cameron, and you can wait till I come back from Alpha site, I will escort you and your group round DC and there will be some difficult Generals, after what has happened and because the Kinsey history and political saga has been raked up again. So, Jack is right to be cautious about how things are done in DC."
Realising this needed dealing with now, Hank put to one side the information he'd gathered from his quick scan of Jack's notes/orders, and that niggle about Jon, knowing he could deal with them later, nodded his agreement to Roberta's suggestion, and added. "Cameron needs to check out the crew on the Hammond so he knows who will be in his First Flight team up there, and any ground crew he will need as they will be dealing with any new craft they find at the site. As well as protecting the new base when it is up and running. We can do that here, then he'll visit the Hammond and explain it all to their commander as well as passing on Jack's orders. That should not be a long visit and can be done tomorrow morning and be back for your return to SGC late tomorrow afternoon."
Seeing Roberta's thoughtful and slightly puzzled look Hank explained. "You are forgetting there is a time difference on Alpha that means your stay will be two whole days rather than just the overnight we have on Earth. Just go with the flow of things rather than work it out. More immediately there is his medical and being briefed about his cover story as well as our discussions with his Waterfall team. If they haven't got any pressing engagements or comments from their Midway mission, they will accompany Cameron to DC as well as checking out the town next to the Waterfall site and the site itself, of course." then Hank turned his full attention to Cameron and finished. "Though Jack doesn't go into details in his notes, he says you know what happened regarding the chef's son."
Remembering that breakfast situation on Atlantis, Cam answered easily. "Yes Sir I do, the father and mother are separated and he hopes his son can be moved from the bad influences of the group he is with at the moment, and a fresh start in the town without necessarily knowing the whole story of the Waterfall site could help turn his life around and help his mother should she decide to move with him. We will have to tread carefully regarding the father's involvement in the matter as well. Of course, having the twig communication with Atlantis means we can relay the situation to him and have his input as necessary.
"Regarding DC, Jack also asked me to check on his driver and give him a note from himself as he is unable to visit him." And could feel the ripple of realisation from what had been said before that - the Midway team had just been changed into 'his' Waterfall team, not Sam's or Jack's team … and Jack's comment when giving him the messages to deliver as well as John Shepard's comment just before he left Atlantis to return to SGC ... he might feel he was just a messenger officer but he wasn't… Showing no outwards signs Cameron felt a silent mental, gulp, as it all dropped into place. He and the Midway team along with his First flight team on the Hammond were setting down the foundations for the Waterfall Site and future space connections… That Jack and Sam were trusting him with a team and responsibilities that were far bigger than SG1, or he had even thought of … And physically straightened up slightly, determined not to betray their trust, and his Flight team and the Hammond would protect the site and the future space family on Earth.
Seeing Cam's reaction Hank nodded, saw Roberta's knowing smile, and carried on in a slightly gentler tone. "Cameron, get Agent Gibbs and his team to do a quiet search on the lad's situation, and while in DC you and the team see if he is suitable to be moved either to the town or even the Waterfall site. It must be his and his family's choice, though so keep in contact with me or Roberta if that is easier. As for the driver, Jack says he likes messing with cars as well as driving them, considering what we know now, if he can't go back to DC as a specialised driver and wants to move, he could be useful around the Waterfall site or the town next door. Be a valued and safe link for people using the site and town." then looked at Roberta for confirmation, knowing she would have first hand knowledge of the situation as he didn't want to take the time contacting Home World and Paul Davis first.
Turning serious and remembering how things were, Roberta nodded and said. "He's in the early stages of recovery, and the cover story about the incident is not as good as the one I've seen today. Nor can he tell anyone the truth, that means he can't really clear his name and get back on the good footing with the other drivers he had before the incident. So, if he and his family are willing to move it would be a good idea."
Hank gave a sigh realizing exactly what Roberta was referring to, then commented. "I had hoped he would be my driver, but I see your point Roberta." then added. "Right. The minerals NightOwl needs will be delivered to the Waterfall site on time and the Phoenix organisation has been informed the site will be cleared of personnel when needed. Obviously they don't know why."
He paused for a moment then, in a firmer tone so the Colonel would not wriggle out of it, carried "Now Cameron, two things I need you to clarify before you have your medical. One, Sam and Jack are on their way home and not on a Mission. Two, why the hesitation about Jon. General Shepard knows how valuable he is for the future, both for himself, Cassie and the Nox." and finished with his best General stare so he would get answers.
Not wanting to say too much, Cameron sighed then said. "Sir." and got a look from Hank, both men knew that usually started bad news, Cam knew it was not bad news just he needed to be careful so nodded and carried on. "It is not bad news. Sam and Jack are on their way home with Lya as planned. It is unfortunately unwise for me to fully explain Jon's situation, I can say he is not on Atlantis at the moment and is in a craft found on Atlantis and going to the Dragon planet. He is safe, has Elder Ohper, NightOwl, U Sang and other members of our space family with him. Once, I or we get the go ahead from Nafrayu via our twig communicators I will explain it all in a very secure setting like now, and will be totally off any record."
Hearing the depth of seriousness in Cam's voice and attitude, both Hank and Roberta nodded they understood, seeing their silent reactions and relieved they wouldn't question him further, Cam continued. "Just as Jack and Sam were leaving Atlantis, the AI we have named Voice of Atlantis stated it believed that there is another Ancient City, either complete or nearly complete and the incomplete vehicle Jack saw at the Waterfall site belongs to it. It also stated it is under water and Jack could use the site and find it, but doesn't know where on Earth it is." and stopped.
For a moment there was stunned silence from the listeners, then Hank started to get his mind round the situation and stated. "Right. We will need to check out our very small navy team and see who is suitable to help Jack work out where it is along with how we raise it without flooding a lot of coastline when it comes up. Press coverage hopefully it would be well in the future possibly after the space programme has been acknowledged and Destiny is back with us. Walter, we will need an extra computer nerd in addition to a suitable sergeant like yourself to keep Jack, Sam and Cameron up to date on the matter."
Walter nodded and stated. "Last bit is already sorted, we just need the Generals and Colonel Mitchell to give the officers that final clearance. I'll quietly check out the former idea of a computer nerd with interests in the oceanic movement of our world in the past and compare it to present day. General O'Neill might not start searching for it till the whole site is up and running and we know what advanced equipment is there."
Hank nodded and turning to Roberta. "Can you quietly check out your navy counterpart in DC?"
With a smile, knowing how it was often thought and in some cases still true that Navy didn't talk to Air or land forces, Roberta answered. "I know who talk to and get their co-operation and it will not go any further."
"Right then Cameron, though you've not officially been off world you still need your medical, then come back here if the Midway team are not in the Mess and we will go through our plan of action." Hank finished, knowing Cameron would need the break to get his head round things as well as the things he'd officially been doing in SGC while physically on Atlantis.
Recognising the official dismissal and he wasn't getting out of that medical, Cameron nodded and said. "Thank you Sir. Ma'am." Getting up to leave he reached over to collect the twig communicator, closed it down before attaching it to his jacket so it disappeared underneath the Nox's forcefield he was wearing. Then walked towards the exit on this level rather than going back down to the Gate room.
Knowing her duties, Molly also got up, ready to watch and protect her charge regardless of any threat and no matter where he went or what he did, and silently nodded to Hank and Roberta, knowing that was all that was needed.
As the door to the conference room closed behind the pair and the other twig communicator continued the secure setting the other one had, Hank looked at Roberta and said quietly. "I think Cameron has just realised the true extent of his new responsibilities and whose shoes he will be filling eventually. As Jack recently said to me, Cam grows on you and has grown up with each mission he takes on."
Roberta gave a gentle laugh and added. "They have chosen very well, whether he stays at First flight protecting them and Earth or takes over from them running the site, it will be his choice." then she inclined her head slightly and looking at Hank added in a more serious tone. "I trust I will get the uncensored reports from time to time, because seeing that lot in action today and the written reports I was given in the past, it makes me wonder even more what is fact and what is fiction."
Fully understanding her thoughts, Hank knew only the truth would do and answered in a serious tone. "We only hide what we have to, the main truth is always there in all our reports. Really, no one outside the close circle it happened to needs to know about the five year old General who saved the universe again ...do they?"
"True, especially as he's grown up, still with us and we are still here." Roberta commented brightly, knowing in some way things might be more difficult for her in the future now she knew the other side of SGC, and hoped her family at least would understand there were things she couldn't discuss with them. That also went for other officers in DC, but that was for the future, for now she would settled down to listen rather than ask any questions that came to mind. Unless Hank asked her to voice them of course.
Respecting Roberta and knowing how astute she was, as well as wanting to move things on to safer ground, Hank nodded then said. "Right. A quick up date, as I have to make sure we are ready for Teal'c's call in via the twig communicator so we can link our Gates again and give them supplies they need. Also you should go back to your family or they will wonder where you are and ask for a search party. You can admit to watching the Midway Team's arrival just not too much detail. Thinking about that, if the Midway team are there you might want to casually introduce Pamela Drayson to your daughter and Taff, as it looks as though she will be attending to the medical side of the Waterfall Site. As you know the Midway team are very experienced in their various fields and should work well with Cameron, and you can meet them properly when they come to DC."
Seeing Roberta's nod of agreement Hank carried on. "Now the bits you've missed since your first visit ….."
We will leave them there.
Thank you for taking the time and reading, hope you've enjoyed it. Reviews, comments and thoughts are always welcome.
See you again when characters and real life let me.