To dpdp, LadyMo, djenie , Guest and Sam600sx - thank you for your reviews and comments, glad you are still enjoying the story. Schatze8210 always enjoy our chats and thanks for your help with this one.

To everyone else thanks for reading and hope you all keep well and safe.

A quick reminder of what came over the loud speakers at SGC from Atlantis City.

"Master Walter of Stargate Command. This is Lady Lya of the Nox family in Atlantis City, requesting a visual and audio audience via our Nox travelling Gate with General Landry, regarding the update on General O'Neill as promised when he was on Midway."

Now on with the story:)

Chapter 22 - Atlantis and SGC

Hearing Lady Lya's announcement Hank immediately smiled, sensing good news in the tone of her voice, though not fully understanding how he could be so confident it was not bad news hidden behind her tone, so didn't worry about clearing the Gate Room and answered easily. "Lady Lya, we welcome your update on General O'Neill. The landing area in front of our travelling gate is clear for your travelling gate to appear, and I would like to thank you and your families for their help in the matter."

Then everyone in the gate room watched with awe, fascination and excitement as the Nox's travelling gate of green and brown forcefield, seemed to unroll out of thin air, and hang in the air in front of the Stargate, almost hiding it from view. As soon as it had settled in place, it rippled and cleared giving everyone a very clear view of the Gate Room in Atlantis City. It was as though they could just walk straight in and talk to the people now facing them.

As Hank instantly and silently weighed up the reason for the large group facing him, he checked off the ones he knew and realized the man beside Cassandra had to be Jon O'Neill, even though he looked different, because the obvious visual connections with Jack that were getting stronger with age were now gone or hidden some how. And was in awe of the large white winged dragon like creature beside them, looking at the SGC group with as much curiosity and interest as he was looking at the Atlantis group. Reckoned it must be NightOwl, and fleetingly wondered why it was referred to in the reports from there, as a tawny owl like being hence the name, and decided it must be able to transform into an owl when needed because of lack of space. Then automatically noting the presence of Sam with U Sang beside her, with the rest of SG1 and others behind them, he spotted the person he really wanted to see. Concentrating on Jack he noted he was standing away from the others, couldn't help his sigh and slight shake of his head as he noted the obvious differences and was relieved the man was at least an adult now.

Roberta's quiet whispered "Is this real?" stopped his silent review.

With a smile, understanding how strange all this must be to her, Hank just as quietly replied. "Very real Ma'am, and the reason all of this must be kept in house and off any record. We also know the purple striped feline is usually a purple striped humanoid, so I'm guessing the white dragon can transform into an owl when necessary, and is the form it usually takes on Atlantis. Both are advanced beings, and can mind-link to each other and us, that is how they have helped General O'Neill regain his adult form from the Ancient child, we have not told the President about. The lady with twigs in her hair is Lady Lya who will tell us how Jack really is, rather than his 'I am fine' if we asked him."

"Riiiight!" Roberta commented quietly getting her mind round it all, then stopped as new events quickly unfolded.

Because, it was also in that moment of awe, when everyone was distracted by what had and was happening in front of them, that little Tali took advantage of her father's relaxed hold on her and wriggled out of his arms and onto the floor, still with that death grip on her large purple toy cat. Instead of sitting on the floor as she usually did when gaining freedom, she landed on her feet and immediately toddled towards the real striped purple cat, she'd fallen in love with at their first meeting, dragging the new favourite toy with her. She was quick and very bright for her young age, something she inherited from both her parents, who are intelligent quick thinkers, Ziva through birth and upbringing and Tony through life and his job. But now Tali's talents had been enhanced by the gift from the butterfly and easily accepted by her young developing brain overnight and no one had noticed the differences.

In spite of their talents, her parents were naturally slow to react and therefore moments behind their determined fast moving child. They also knew better than to shout at their daughter when she was in a determined mood, and everyone else could only watch the scene unfold as Tali gained ground towards those in the other 'room' while calling out very clearly. "Purple pussy! Tali coming!"

In Atlantis, seeing and sensing the danger U Sang stood up, but didn't move towards the oncoming child, and immediately purred out clearly, softly and firmly, so everyone could hear and understand, but not frighten the child. "Little Lady Tali. You must stop and sit with your beautiful purple pussy and listen to my words."

Her parents stopped where they were, as to theirs and everyone's amazement Tali had immediately stopped. Thumped down on her diapered bottom, so was cushioned from the shock of hitting the hard floor so quickly, and silently cuddled her purple toy while watching the very real large purple striped pussy. Then like everyone else, she listened to U Sang's gentle purring words that were aimed at her but everyone understood.

"Little Lady Tali, you must sleep while these families talk. As you sleep the nightmares that you have will go and not come back, so will not disturb your future sleep. On waking you will be the child you are meant to be, while the gifts of communication and health will help you learn of life as you should. Then, when you are fully grown we will meet again, and fly the seas of space together. You will make your loving parents proud, and will be proud of them."

Then he continued purring gently and soothingly rather than talking, and everyone in Atlantis and SGC watched little Tali slid down into a curling sleep position. Then still gripping her soft toy while using it as a pillow, she closed her eyes and slept.

Knowing she was in a deep sleep, U Sang immediately addressed her very startled parents saying. "Lady Ziva and Master Tony, she was not in danger. But would have received a shock of warning had she come closer to the Nox travelling gate, and that would have alarmed her. She is an intelligent and beautiful child who will sleep deeply while we talk, and this will be like a dream to her when you wake her after we have gone. Through my natural gifts I have sensed her nightmares and memory of the explosion you escaped, these will be gone. As will yours Lady Ziva. I also sense the sea of space travel in her future, if it is yours and her wish, we will meet again. Master Jack and Lady Lya of the Nox families will know where we are, as they are finding our families a new home planet. But you must also remember, the future is fluid and unknown, so take care in what you do and how you approach it. The gifts you all have been given will help you do this." and started to sit beside Samantha again, but was stopped.

NightOwl, unable to contain her excitement any longer, loudly hooted and dragon grumbled to U Sang so he could translate it to them for her. "I am NightOwl of the dragon planet and see a good future for you as a family. Also I am very glad to meet more people of Master Jack's earth family."

Before U Sang could translate, and Hank not realizing that was usually needed, smiled and immediately replied. "NightOwl of the dragon planet. We are pleased to meet you and thank you and U Sang for your help regarding Master Jack's return to his adult self."

Everyone on Atlantis was surprised that they and the others at SGC on Earth could now understand NightOwl's hooted dragon grumbles. Unfortunately being so excited, NightOwl was producing more energy than she was using, and started to get bigger as well as flap her wings as she craned her neck so she could see U Sang properly and chat to him.

This, of course, meant those around her were in danger of getting squashed or dragon tail swiped, so were quickly getting out the way. Knowing the others would look out for themselves, Sam immediately dodged round the back of U Sang to get to the other side of him. So he could deal with NightOwl, verbally or mentally, and hoped it didn't look too much like utter panic to those watching on Earth.

Looking straight back at those very bright green dragon's eyes, U Sang was already purring commandingly verbally and mentally at his mentor. "NightOwl! You must calm yourself before you hurt our new family." while realizing everyone would understand what was said verbally, and how odd it was that he should be calming her, when usually she calmed him as he got too excited.

Now, trying hard not to flap her wings, swish her tail or stamp her feet as she felt like doing, NightOwl did not break eye contact with her pupil while exclaiming excitedly, but in a huff of disgust/hurt, if that was possible. "But I can talk! For the first time in my many thousands of years U Sang. I can talk!" and emphasized the last word loudly to make her point.

Immediately knowing what was needed to bring NightOwl back to her calmer self, U Sang instantly flipped from feline to humanoid form, complete with white coat and trousers as he was among dressed humans. But larger than the humans around him this time, so he could reach up and touch NightOwl's neck or shoulder rather than part of her wing to give her that extra calming influence she needed. He also exclaimed with a hint of gentle purring laughter. "You have always been able to talk my mentor. Now though, everyone can listen and understand as you do so, and of course you will not need me to translate so they will be your own words. This is the gift Atlantis and Master Jack have given us all. We must all take time to adjust and use it wisely."

All of this of course stunned the watchers on Earth, they had never seen this pair at work, play or change from one form to another in seconds or knew that anything like them really existed. As well as starting to realise they'd been given the gift of communication, and everyone on Atlantis had managed to dodge the excited Dragon and were safe. Hank also noted Jack was keeping well out of things as he stood silently to one side watching it all, and decided to do the same as it was really amazing.

Starting to register what was happening around her as U Sang's words and mental calming sunk in, NightOwl managed to tuck her wings in closer to her body, keep her tail still and looking at her pupil, still feeling the excitement of this discovery, dragon grumbled hooted loudly with true indignation. "You wish me to be quiet and be calm?! Just after I have found I can talk!"

Now that everyone was safe, all the listeners couldn't help smiling at the very strange conversation and scene, realizing it was a bit like a teenager having a tempter tantrum, only it was a large dragon instead, while also sensing there wasn't any danger of it getting out of hand again. Especially, as U Sang's purring answer came out gently and with respect. "Yes NightOwl. I do. We both know Lady Lya of the Nox needs to talk to Master Jack's Earth family so they understand how his recovery is progressing. I also believe Master Jack has important words to say to his Earth family. We and the others living on Atlantis will be able to communicate together when this meeting has finished, and find out more about this great gift we have been given."

Realising they could talk later, NightOwl nodded her agreement, and felt and saw U Sang release his touch then step away from her so she could shiver and expel the extra excited energy she'd collected on learning she could talk. It was a different energy from her life one she gathered each day to live and had gain from Atlantis when touching the forcefield. This was excited energy that would transform into a very bad grumpy feeling if left within her, she also wanted to get back to her normal dragon size. One that would fit the occasion, she was not going to go owl size, that would be too much and soo embarrassing.

Knowing what she needed to do, she craned her neck and head to the left then right to check everyone was safe and there was space around her. Then facing Jack, NightOwl sent the mind nudge 'Lady Lya and Nox family you are included in this' as she calmly dragon grumbled out loud. "I apologize for my over excitement Master Jack and Earth family. I will now return to my normal dragon size with a shiver and stay silent unless asked to speak."

Seeing Jack's nod and smile, NightOwl could also feel Lady Lya's nod and smile, so immediately shivered head to toe. The gentle shiver running through her body should have made her shrink and the energy disappear into the air around her not harming anyone. But she was not shrinking, she was still too full of 'that' energy … and immediately flung out a mind nudge to Master Jack and open link to USang … while huffing out her embarrassment and statement "I need to flame. I'm sorry." but couldn't help ending mentally to both. "But it is soo exciting!" with true feeling.

While U Sang was purring reassuringly 'that it would be alright to do so.' knowing the listeners could now understand his purring whether or not it came through his translator. Jack gave a gentle reassuring mental nudge back to her, while commenting out loud. "NightOwl, they've never seen a real dragon flame, and you can not hurt them as they are not actually here. Just remember to face the travelling gate rather than us." Glancing across the group he immediately checked out loud. "Lady Lya will it take the extra energy, or do you want to roll it up and get back in touch with Earth afterwards?" not wanting the thing to blow up on them.

Knowing Lya would answer when he finished, Jack immediately turned his attention to the group at the computer station commanding. "Colonel Shepard. Alert Atlantis not to dowse the flame NightOwl produces, we don't want a soaking wet energy dragon or anyone else come to that."

As John Shepard keyed in the warning and instantly got the correct answer back and nodded it was done, Lya openly smiling confirmed. "The travelling gate will be unharmed and I look forward to seeing the flame NightOwl. Be reassured if I feel any danger, Elder Opher and I will produce a protective shield for everyone."

NightOwl gracefully craned her head round so she could see Lady Lya and grumbled humbly. "It will only be yellow flame as I have not been able to eat the mineral I need for red since leaving our home planet. I believe Master Jack and Lady Teyla are trying to obtain some from this planet and from Earth, but that will be in the future."

"It will still be beautiful and needed NightOwl. Please go ahead." Lya said with a gentle reassuring smile and true feeling, knowing NightOwl would sense it.

With a nod NightOwl looked at the group in SGC, so she was aiming in the right direction, and feeling the hiccup of excited energy ready to burst, opened her mouth and huffed out six beautiful yellow fire rings of several sizes that floated towards the Nox's gate. Feeling herself gently lose size as well as hearing U Sang's gentle mental purring laugh and words 'show off', she ended the show with a small but long yellow streak of flame as though from a burner, the type everyone might expect from a fire dragon. This flame was finely tuned and aimed for the centre of the rings. As it joined them it seemed to gather them together, then there was a puff of white smoke from the tail of the flame that put the others out safely and in sequence, so nothing remained but the tiny puff of smoke hanging in the air. While that was disappearing NightOwl shook herself and became the white feathered dragon those on Atlantis had seen when Master Jack was a child, but now stood only slightly taller than the humans around her, making U Sang taller than everyone as he'd not lost his humanoid height in order to could calm her, so she gently sent out the mental comment. "Your turn." to him before stopping mid thought, suddenly fearful of the noise around her.

Everyone around her and those at SGC were clapping, with Jared, Kayla and Emily cheering and jumping up and down with glee. Feeling and realising it was true support for her rather than anger or fright as she had expected, NightOwl craned her head and looking across at Jack, dragon grumbled out loud her surprise. "They do not fear me. Master Jack."

Resisting the urge to give a gentle laugh and knowing she could sense any false ones, Jack answered with true feeling. "No NightOwl, we know you would not harm us. We also look forward to seeing you fly and flame when you visit the cabin on Earth in the future. For now though I think we should move on" then asked. "U Sang, do you want to return to your true form?"

Giving a slight bow, U Sang proudly stated. "Master Jack, I will stay in my humanoid form in honour of the family who rescued us and the ones under your command and care on Earth. I will though return to a more comfortable size to communicate with everyone." and without any fuss promptly returned to the same height as Sam, who was standing quietly beside him. This action of course brought forth a lot more mutterings of surprise from those in SGC, as this was all so new to most of them.

Having noticed who the visitor was standing next to Hank, and feeling the gentle mind nudge of, "Take the lead if you wish." from Lya. Jack quickly nudged back. "Thank you" and nodded his thanks to U Sang, before adding out loud. "General Roberta Green, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, welcome to the mad house. First time over? An official visit?"

Just managing to keep her own excitement under control while giving a gentle laugh at his words, and yes the whole situation she found herself in, Roberta then confirmed. "First time over and I think I kept you and your friends waiting. Must admit I'm loving every second of it. Thank you Jack." Then taking a breath and with a slight nod, knowing Jack would understand she was carrying on, she got her mind on track and added seriously. "The President has had a chat with Henry Hayes, so sent me over to find out what might be missing from SGC's recent reports regarding this new site that has suddenly come to light. The President also believed the relevant senior officers like myself should have the experience of 'going upstairs', as you call it. The others will have their trip over at a later date. He has also given me certain powers to confirm suggestions about the future, put forward by Hank and other heads of departments who were at that meeting, as well as your own of course, as he expected me to discuss it with you at the pre-arranged debriefing with Hank, after the ceremony you were presiding over on his behalf had taken place."

Seeing Jack stiffen slightly she added quickly. "Don't worry, I'm taking Hank's advice about what to report back on and you know I will keep my word on it. Has the ceremony taken place?"

Jack nodded not wanting to go into details just then.

Understanding the signs, as they had worked together in the past, Roberta smiled and said. "Good." Then quickly confessed. "You know the main downside of this, is the fact I am unable to explain to my husband and family that it has not been the boring day at the office I thought it would be. Also I'll have to stop my smile as I tell them to go upstairs to get things from their rooms." Then as she out ranked both Generals, she gently but firmly commented. "As we would like to know how you really are Jack, I'm going to ask Lady Lya for her update so we don't get your usual short 'I'm fine.'" She immediately turned slightly from Jack, avoiding any comment from him, and finished. "Lady Lya of the Nox. Lady Roberta is fine as an address, and thank you for your family's help in this matter."

Realising what Roberta was going to do as she turned away from him, Jack stayed silent and instantly gave Lya the mind nudge. 'Brief update, Hank can fill her in on details later. She is a higher level in rank and service than I am. Also has a very quick mind and I trust her completely."

Nodding her acceptance to Roberta, along with an agreeing mind nudge back to Jack, Lya stepped forward slightly then with a smile addressed the group on Earth. "Lady Roberta, Master Hank and Earth friends of Master Jack. I am glad to say Master Jack is in fact fine." She paused as the ones around her chuckled, as did Jack and the those on Earth smiled and relaxed.

Knowing tensions were broken, Lya started in her usual gentle but firm manner. "As you can see, the energy gifts our family and those on Atlantis gave him, have enabled the human genes to return to their rightful place, and the Ancient genes are beginning to rest in the background as they should. It will take time to complete this process, so he needs to be away from large populated areas and high stress. Therefore returning to DC or SGC as you call them, at this time would be unwise. His Ancient healing gene is still very strong he needs to keep distance from others, so he does not heal them of any weakness they knowingly or unknowingly posses. Healing them would weaken him and unsettle his recovery. For this reason he is keeping his distance from his family here on Atlantis." At that, she paused for a moment.

Receiving Jack's mind nudge "Thank you! Keep it up." and seeing Hank's and Roberta's smiles and slight nods, as well as knowing what Jack's aim was, Lya started again, with a slight nod and that gentle firm tone of hers. "Master Jack's main contact while he is recovering should be his life mate Lady Samantha as she was completely healed of all ills when he was in Ancient child form, and before he went into the mind room. We do not know how long it will take, but once the energy gifts have disappeared from view he will be able to take his place among his workforce family and friends as he used to do. The Ancient download along with the failing Asgard barrier and Oranggezzes download that were in his mind, and would have lead to his death if he had not managed to return to Atlantis in time, have been retrieved and are now stored in their rightful place in this City, so others can refer to them in the future. His mind has not been harmed, but he will need calm around him so he can adjust to being back in this reality, having been in the mind room with NightOwl to ground him while this has taken place." Then nodded indicating she had finished so those in front her could take in the information.

While Hank was quickly thinking it all through and getting ready to comment as he could see the solution Jack was aiming for, as well as the medical implications, Roberta, not knowing all background gave into her curiosity by asking. "Lady Lya, what would have happened if Master Jack had not returned to Atlantis in time?"

Lya nodded then answered. "Lady Roberta, the universe as we know it would have been destroyed and become an evil black hole because the entity within Master Daniel would have succeeded in its aim. I am glad to say this did not happen, and Master Jon, who was Master Jack's clone and was also dying, is now his own person and will live a full life, as will Master Jack and Master Daniel. The City of Atlantis, under the guidance of the Ancient gene in the form of child-sized Master Jack, has destroyed the entity in the manner it was programmed to, and Master Daniel is completely cured and protected so it can not happen again."

While Roberta mulled over the enormity of the whole situation and what had been left out of the reports to the President and was likely to be in the future, especially parts of this meeting, Hank asked. "So Jack apart from saving us all, you are hoping The Waterfall find has given you a Get Out Of DC card, as well as new medical staff?" Seeing Jack's slight nod, Hank added. "I'll come on to that later. For now though and no disrespect to anyone on Atlantis, I'd like to know how can we be sure that Doctor Jackson is safe to come back to Earth, or even safe to be let out again?"

Glancing across at Jack and seeing his nod Lya answered. "Master Hank. We understand a lot has to be taken on trust. NightOwl and U Sang have unique qualities that can not only sense these energies but can also neutralize them. They have confirmed that those energies no longer exist so can not be reformed in any way. From my time with Master Jack, I understand you also take energy readings before and after your family return from their missions, these will confirm Master Daniel is now totally clear of all energies left behind from past experiences. As Master Jack was in the mind room with Master Daniel, he is the only one who can explain what protection has been put in place by the Ancients through City of Atlantis. I would also add, Masters Jon and Daniel need quiet time so they can recover from their experiences."

Nodding his understanding, and realising what Jack had been aiming for, Hank said. "Thank you Lady Lya. NightOwl and U Sang." before turning his attention to the main person concerned and adding. "Jack, I believe you now have the floor regarding Daniel and your team's future."

Hoping both Generals would understand his lead in the following discussions and work with him, Jack noted the gentle mixed mutterings of restraint and reassurance from Vala to Daniel, and could feel the man's physical and mental restlessness increasing. Silently slipping into his 'General in charge' mode rather than 'passive watcher' one he had been in, he nodded his acceptance of the lead role, then quietly started to lay out ground rules. "Hank. As you know Stargate Command and Homeworld Security will always have a duty of care regarding members under their command, and in this case knowledge will be on a verbal need to know basis only, that you and your Medical Officer will control. The Ancients's safeguard is for Daniel's and the universe's protection, and he is not to be taken advantage of by anyone inside or outside the service, now or in the future. That, of course, includes protecting Daniel from himself, as we both know he tends to get carried away when digging up history and pushes the boundaries around him."

Feeling Roberta's attitude, like his own, step up from friends talking about friends to Generals talking about important universal matters, Hank knew the NCIS group also sensed the change and would stay silent. He also noticed Daniel was fidgeting, probably knew what was going to be said, and that was why he was between Vala and Teal'c. Nodding his agreement with a smile, at Jack's under statement in the last bit, Hank stayed silent to let him carry on.

Which Jack, in quiet command mode, did. "Hopefully this will make him think about the consequences to himself and those around him, before touching anything he comes across or is actually studying. The other person who will restrain him is Vala, his life mate and working companion come deputy, in the History department at Stargate Command, which Daniel still heads."

Seeing Hank's nod of agreement, while ignoring Vala's gasp at this acknowledgement of an official post for her, Jack continued. "We both know he is a unique asset to the department and Stargate Command. But, you are the only one who can decide how much you trust him regarding future missions. He is as Lya says totally clean from any debris that old possessions left behind, and that includes the times he ascended to the Ancients and came back to us. His memories and mind are unaffected by the process done by Atlantis. Daniel is still adjusting to being himself and coming to terms with the things he is not clear about while being possessed, as well as all the after affects of his actions. So he is a bit jumpy and under the guidance of Lady Lya and her family as well as U Sang."

Glancing at Daniel, whom he could see without having to turn his back on Hank and the others, Jack knew Vala and Teal'c had things in hand, but feeling Daniel's angst about to burst into an unwise exclamation, he sent a sharp mind nudge "Don't! Just listen and take note of the guide lines for your future with Vala." Seeing his friend's eyes immediately widen as he registered what just happened between them, Jack closed the nudge in a way that Daniel wouldn't be able to mind nudge him back, and turned his attention back to Hank saying. "The Ancients on Atlantis have a system that protects those who have been cleansed of possession. I watched that process so know it has been done. After that Atlantis is programmed to make sure it will not happen again and protect that person, whether they have the Gene or not, and it will be untraceable unless it is activated. It is a forcefield, that will alert Daniel if a presence is close by, in a room, a building or perhaps an article he is about to touch. If Daniel does not heed the distinctive tingling warning that is sent through his body, he will have a mild electric shock till he does so. It will get stronger each time it is ignored, the after effect of the mild one is a headache rather like a very bad hangover lasting for days rather than hours, or immediate unconsciousness if he comes in contact with the presence."

Jack was stopped by Daniel's very explosive. "Jack!" as well as the fact the man was trying to get to him but was being held back by Vala and Teal'c holding his arms.

Turning his attention to his extremely angry friend, while noting Vala's slight smile as she and Teal'c were restraining him, Jack questioned sharply. "What would you have preferred Daniel? Your death the first time you forgot yourself. It kills the presence, not you. You are the one who has the first gentle warning so heed it!" Seeing his friend stop his struggles and hopefully actually listen, Jack carried on in a less sharp but serious tone. "At least it doesn't turn you yellow or make you sick each time you come close to something or you forget yourself. It is just a distinctive tingle that you will understand and can stop before it becomes a hangover or a knockout blow. You are a leader now, so listen to all your teams and Vala. More importantly, think before you do anything at all in future. Thor has entrusted you and Vala with the Yggdrasil to sail the seas of space for a reason." he emphasized.

Remembering the other conversation about a spaceship for Daniel, Hank butted in, in wonder. "Norse Mythology, the tree of life protecting earth, linking heaven and hell."

Turning his attention back to Hank, a rather stunned Roberta and NCIS group, Jack nodded and carried on. "Just like Atlantis, among other things, the Yggdrasil gathers and gives information about the planets and inhabitants in this universe. They are not warships, but can defend themselves and they both have important roles to play in the future of this universe. So they need special trusted teams to safeguard them. Make sure they are used properly." Glancing across at Lya, Jack instantly mind nudged "Will you take them?" while automatically adding the name and co-ordinates of the planet, that Thor had embedded in Jack's mind, and would be given when the time was right and never under duress or out loud.

Understanding the true significance of the details, Lya nodded her acceptance, while mind nudging back "Anteaus will accompany them so Daniel can meditate on the way. The people are advanced and are our friends. The planet will be a good refuge for them if the need arises. Will there be a home ready for them?"

Jack nodded and mind nudged, "Yes, they are expected but no specific date was given." Before saying out loud. "Lady Lya's family will take them straight from Atlantis so Daniel will not be returning to Earth right away. They can use it as a second home if Earth is not comfortable for them, but Earth is their home. Yggdrasil is under Homeworld Security and Stargate Command's protection and with Daniel and Vala's agreement can be used for assignments. They will have the final say in that matter, but you and future Commanders will have the final say on their security and any team who travels with them."

There was silence while everyone caught up with it all and waited for Hank's comment on the matter.

Hank thought through all the ins and outs of the situation, knowing that Daniel and Vala working as a team were good and SGC needed them. Having worked with Jack, seen the Ancient child of earlier and read the reports about the Nox, Hank knew he could trust their word, no matter how unbelievable it might seem. Also he had to deal with it now so nothing about this situation came out, he nodded to himself then looking at the group in front of him and reminding himself they were on Atlantis and not in the Gate room, said firmly. "Daniel and Vala there will always be a home for you on Earth and in Stargate Command, the house with the area beside it is ready for use."

Seeing Vala's smile and nod, along with Daniel's slight nod of acknowledgement, he added just as firmly. "Daniel, when you return with Yggdrasil, there will be rules you will comply with. I am willing to trust Lady Lya's and Jack's word that you are now your true person. But, because of your behaviour, regardless of the fact you were possessed, you need to prove to me and your team in Stargate Command that they can trust you, and that will take time. "No" to a mission will mean "No". There will be a medical on your arrival and unannounced checks from time to time after that, also a security team will shadow your movements on base and on all missions unless the commander of the base stands them down. Their word will be obeyed by you and your team. Do you understand and accept this?"

In spite of all the mixed emotions flooding through him at the moment, Daniel knew he had no choice but to comply. He didn't want to lose the safety net of SGC and Earth, certainly not Vala now he really understood what she meant to him. Also, ever since he'd heard the name Yggdrasil, a tiny idea had taken hold, that this was what his life had been leading up to, and with Vala by his side he would finally lose that lost feeling that shadowed him after Jack had left SG1. Most of all, he didn't want to be escorted out of the Gate room if his unsettled emotions took hold, he knew Teal'c would do it if Jack ordered it. He wanted to be part of this family again, so looking at Hank and finding he really meant it, answered quietly. "Yes and I apologise for my behaviour in the past."

Hank, realising he could sense 'a lie' far clearer than he had before this moment, fleetingly wondered if it was because of the gift, and knew Daniel really meant what he said, so nodded and then said. "I believe you have bigger apologies to make to Master Jack, Lady Samantha and Master Jon O'Neill, and I sincerely hope Doctor Jackson, you are able to keep your word when you give it, now and in the future." then with a slight nod, added. "I look forward to our discussion when you and Vala return to Earth." and got a silent serious nod back from Daniel, and noting Vala's slight smile knew she would join in those discussions, and would not be a passive participant in Daniel's future.

Then with only a short pause and knowing there were other matters to discuss, Hank turned his attention away from Daniel saying in a slightly lighter but serious tone. "Before we go onto other matters Jack. I would like to confirm we have information regarding the planet addresses you left with us concerning NightOwl and U Sang. We need to open the Gate to confirm the information is still relevant, this will be done once you are back on Earth and the Gate is officially cleared for use. Also we are in contact with a firm that can supply us with the mineral for NightOwl's red flame, they give the option of chunks of rock or powder form that is usually added to fireworks here on earth."

Before NightOwl could dragon grumble her comment, Lya butted in politely. "With permission Master Jack." Jack nodded and let Lya carry on. "Master Hank, if you would pass the information regarding the planets to our family via the communication twig we have given you. We would be happy to see if it is the same or ties in with our information and discuss it with NightOwl, U Sang, members on Atlantis and yourself. Also we can pick up the mineral for NightOwl when we deliver Master Jack and Lady Samantha to the Cabin at the Waterfall site."

Hank smiled, not only at NightOwl's 'quietish' dragon grumble "Thank you. Twenty hand sized chunks of rock please, pure mineral powder makes me sneeze and have indigestion, both are not good to have." But also knowing Lya had just made sure Jack got where he wanted to be, in one respect at least, and said. "Thank you Lady Lya that will be a big help. NightOwl, we will place the order as soon as we finish here." then giving his friend the lead added "Do you want to carry on Jack?"

Hoping at least some of the rest would fall into place without too much fuss, Jack hid his smile and nodded acceptance, then said. "I would like to go back to our discussions about the future of Stargate Command and City of Atlantis, that took place just before Daniel butted into my talk with the President." Ignoring Daniel's muttering huff along with Vala's gentle and fairly quiet "Don't! It is only so they know what they were talking about, rather than you." to Daniel, that seemed to stop the huff continuing.

Noting Hank's nod of understanding, Jack immediately turned his attention to the person in the Gate room no one could see, by saying "Walter. I will need you to take notes at certain points. I know you will understand which ones and what actions will be needed afterwards. General Landry can confirm them later and I'll add my signature when I'm back on Earth."

"Yes Sir. Ready and waiting Sir." came from the upper level by the computers where Walter had been silently watching, while carrying on with his normal duties.

Seeing Roberta and the SGC officers smile at that, Jack turned his attention to her by saying. "Ma'am, as Chief of Staff of the Air Force and here with the President's blessing to approve discussions between us, I would like you to formally witness this discussion and sign the document that will hang in the Memorial Room at Stargate Command and mentioned in Stargate Command's record book. The Memorial Room not only acknowledges those who have fallen in battle since the beginning of the SGC, it also records the retirement of teams, who served in them and where they've moved on to, as well as our commitment to them and their families in the future."

"This is certainly an interesting learning curve, and I look forward to being shown the room while I am here. I will witness the document and report our discussions as I see fit. I also have news from the President regarding the meeting Hank attended via the video call, and we will explain it to everyone later." Roberta answered, feeling once again 'that' presence Jack brought to meetings when he really wanted to, and remembered the recent ones when he'd deliberately been a shadow that people paid little attention to, and understood nothing had gone unnoticed by him.

Giving a slight nod and knowing he had everyone's attention, Jack explained. "General Landry and I were discussing the future and the retirement of Stargate Command's Premier Team SG1. Instead of waiting for the prearranged date in six Earth months time, I am doing it today, Earth time."

Feeling the ripple of tension and anticipation, especially from the present SG1 team behind him, Jack continued. "Lady Roberta, there is already a notice commemorating General George Hammond setting up SG1. Who served on it and what happened when it was temporarily disbanded and then reformed under the leadership of Colonel Cameron Mitchell. It also acknowledges what the Nox family did for us when we visited Gaia and were fatally ambushed, along with our friendship with Thor of the Asgard and other notable Space Travellers. This notice of the SG1's final retirement will stand beside it, and copies of both will be in Atlantis's Hall of Memories and their records will be added to our Hall of Memories."

Seeing Roberta's nod of understanding and getting an instant mind nudge from Jack, Sam didn't hesitate and commanded. "Attention to orders" so everyone around her and at SGC, except Walter who would carry out his duty came to attention, and Jack with nod formally announced. "With the Witnesses of Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Roberta Green and Colonel Samantha Cater, Commander of Atlantis City. It is with great honour that I. Lieutenant General Jack O'Neill, Head of Homeworld Security and Space Forces, confirm that under the command of Major General Hank Landry, Stargate Command's Premier Team known as SG1, under the leadership of Colonel Cameron Mitchell, Doctor Daniel Jackson, Teal'c of Chulak and Warrior of the Free Jaffa along with Vala Mal Doran, Space traveller and historian have successfully completed all their missions, with due diligence and fortitude, often going on beyond the call of duty to do so and return to Stargate Command, now permanently retire the team and name of SG1."

Although he paused for a quick breath, the silence stayed long enough for him to continue in the same formal tone. "It is also noted and confirmed that the families of Teal'c of Chulak, now Ambassador and leader of the Free Jaffa and returning to Chulak. As well as Vala Mal Doran, now deputy leader of the History Department of Stargate Command, and life mate of Doctor Jackson leader of the History Department and both being overseers of the spacecraft Yggdrasil. Will have sanctuary on Earth, Alpha Site, Atlantis City and future Space Stations, for all time."

Knowing he had left out one person, who would be dealt with in a moment, Jack formally finished by asking. "Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Roberta Green, on behalf of the President, our Commander in Chief do you witness and endorse this statement?"

Roberta, feeling the full weight of the power and the commitment for the future she was being asked to commit to, as well as realising this was done now because all of SG1 were present, that this was a family breaking up and moving on with honour and dignity. Trusted Jack had left the leader of SG1 for a reason that would come to light in a moment. Took a breath, and with a slight nod answered clearly. "Yes I do." then with a smile could not help adding. "Although I do not know all the history, I would also like to thank the whole of Stargate Command's Premier Team for their knack of getting out of trouble and their bravery. As well as the rest of Stargate Command for the support they give all their teams on Earth and Atlantis."

With a smile and nod, Jack immediately losing his formal tone but staying in General mode, glanced away from her and turned his attention to the current leader of SG1 saying. "I have not forgotten you Cam." seeing he got the officer's attention he went on. "At those meetings with General Landry we also discussed your next orders, and decided to offer you the command of Flight Leader for all flights and training on the General Hammond. But, because of events, I am now going to poach you from that post by offering you the Flight Leader of all Space or Earth bound craft and crews, at what I hope will be called the Waterfall Site, rather than the local name of Devil's Waterfall. As well as being Second in Command to the General in charge of that site. It will be Earth based with trips into Space when required."

Tension lifted, Cam couldn't stop a slight smile, he'd been relieved of having to disband SG1 on returning to Earth, O'Neill had done it with dignity for all the team. Seeing Sam's smile and slight nod, he knew she was happy with the situation, had some how discussed it with the General. For him it would be a massive step up from commanding an active team to being second in command as well as being Flight Leader, and assumed O'Neill would be in charge as it was really his site, after all he had the Ancient Gene, realised one big snag, and immediately said. "I don't have the natural gene, Sir."

Nodding his understanding, Jack explained. "You don't need it. You have been given the gift of communication so the Ancient space craft at the Waterfall site and Atlantis will answer to your mental and physical commands. Once we've got others up and running of course. There will also be a team from Atlantis helping with this site, they will answer to you and Colonel Shepard depending on where they are at the time. Do you accept the challenge?"

With a huge grin Cam nodded, then finding his voice added firmly. "Yes, Sir."

Jack nodded then added. "Thank you for your leadership and bringing SG1 home safely." before turning back to SGC and gate room and announcing. "Walter, you got all that?"

Walter called back. "Yes Sir."

Then turning and moving so he faced the group on Atlantis, Jack announced. "SG1 you are officially retired." As he moved and turned back to where he'd been standing so he could see everyone, the ripple of applause started at SGC and then on Atlantis.

After moment Sam and Jack also joined in the applause, and feeling Lya's gentle mind nudge. "May we add our words?" Jack mind nudged back. "Yes, please do."

He watched Lya step forward and with a graceful nod, silenced the applause before starting in her usual graceful manner. "Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Roberta Green and Major General Hank Landry of Stargate Command. As leaders of all the Nox families, and with the future Earth Ambassador Lady Emily present to witness it and to contact us if necessary. Elder Opher and myself would like to state that Gaia and the Nox families will give all members of General O'Neill's space command past, present and future sanctuary should the need arise. This includes SG1 and their families because without them this universe would not exist as it does today."

Glancing at U Sang and NightOwl, because she felt their mind nudges, she immediately added. "NightOwl and U Sang of the dragon planet also give you their pledge of help and support."

Like everyone else, gradually registering the enormity of what had just happened, though from Jack's slight nod of acknowledgement probably meant he already knew they were the actual leaders of the Nox and not just a family, Hank glanced at Roberta to see who should take the lead. Hearing her quiet. "You are their leader. I am just a visitor." Hank smiled and nodded acceptance, then stated. "Elder Opher, Lady Lya, NightOwl and U Sang, on behalf of everyone thank you for your support."

With the gentle ripple of chatter among the group around him, and knowing he needed to lead this discussion on to other matters, Hank turned his attention to Jack saying. "There are certain things you need to know arising from discussions with the Commander in Chief. Firstly it will be called the Waterfall site. Secondly there will be two Generals in charge of the site at the beginning at least, and we have been in touch with the Phoenix Corporation."

And was interrupted by Walter announcing. "General Landry, Sir, we have a call coming through you need to take in private."

Sighing and walking over to the stairs to the upper level Hank stated. "I hope this will not take long." before going up to Walter and leaving the groups to chat among themselves.

Oxoxox

There we leave them and will be back once they tell me what is going on.:)

As always if you have got this far I hope you have enjoyed it, and comments are welcome.

Will be back when muse and real life allow till then take care.