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Chapter 30 – Atlantis Gate Room Part 3

Watching Teal'c join Anteaus, Vala's excitement was growing to a point of being too much for her to hold back. Her mind was screaming 'We're next!' ... while continuing to race at double speed through what she'd just seen and heard. How she had she felt that morning on waking and watching Daniel sleep, then wake. … Granted there were certain issues to work through. Daniel had been shy and embarrassed when he realised they would be sleeping in the same room and this morning when he realised she'd been watching him sleep. As well as the fact everyone accepted they were life mates, without the courting stage. Which was fine by her, she loved him and his moods, well most of his moods. And she understood his wariness considering how they met, worked together, and of course his marriage and loss of Sha're. She also had a lot of baggage to bring to the party as well, they both knew that.

Of course there were trust issues, as he'd become a demon that nearly ended the Universe, till Jack O'Neill and the Nox had dealt with it. Again they would work through it together, because like everyone else this morning, they'd woken from that good cleansing sleep given them by NightOwl in positive moods and no one was going to ignore that gift. Before, her past life and all the troubles that went with it dominated her attitude to everything and everyone, now they felt like shadows that she could ignore rather than have to move on to new planets and people and start again. So she was not going to run away from the future she'd been offered and wanted. Where she had the security in a home on Earth and SGC, a life-mate of her choice, people she considered friends who accepted her. And nearly chuckled out loud with pure joy at the partnership with Daniel in Yggdrasil, an unknown space ship that had been given to them, rather than being one she'd pinched. It all sounded like a new adventure and she loved those.

Now with it all bubbling through her mind, what she wanted to do most was to thank the person who made all of it possible, so she was almost bouncing out of her skin with excitement and gratitude. Glancing briefly at her silent life mate beside her, and understanding his earlier hesitation she gave him a gentle nudge. Expecting him to move, she turned her attention to Sam and Jack ready to move.

Realising Daniel wasn't going to move and she would have to take the lead, she turned her head to glance at him properly, and said quietly but firmly. "You have to face him. He saved you, talked to you in the mind room and said to everyone your friendship has not been broken, dented but not broken. It will be fine." before adding with a huff as he'd just kept looking at the Ancient gadget he was holding. "I'm going. You follow me."

Not waiting for Daniel's reaction, but hearing his huff as she immediately turned her attention to Sam and Jack and started to walk towards them, she knew it had registered, he would come. Her walk was full of her excitement and happiness, setting her hair bunches bouncing on her shoulders, her smile was big and eyes were bright, and the fact she was not wearing her long black coat, her tight fitting clothes showed her figure off to perfection. The only question going through the silent smiling watchers' minds was. 'Would she stop when she came to Jack, or carry on and hug him?' Because that was the message her body language was shouting to everyone.

Just as Vala was starting to slow to come to a stop in front of Sam and Jack, the Gate started flashing blue warning lights making Vala exclaim calmly. "Voice of Atlantis, I know I can't hug him as I wish. So like Teal'c I will stand and say what I want to say." As she stopped in front of Sam and Jack, added with a smile to the person concerned. "With Lady Samantha's permission of course."

As Sam, who was smiling broadly at her friend nodded her silent agreement, the Voice of Atlantis stated. "Your words are welcome Lady Vala Mal Doran as will Master Jackson's be when it is his turn."

Before turning her attention to Jack, Vala voiced her request. "Voice of Atlantis, please convey my thanks to NightOwl for her gift of last night's sleep and positive waking, and wish them a successful journey."

Enjoying the attention,Voice of Atlantis flashed the blue lights round the Gate's rim before stating. "Lady Vala Mal Doran it is done. NightOwl and U Sang thank you, and wish you, Masters Daniel and Teal'c a good journey and future. The same sentiments are extended to Lady Samantha and Master Jack. They look forward to seeing you all at the time of the birthing ceremony." then seamlessly flashed silver lights around the rim and, changing tone slightly, added. "Lady Lya. The Nox family orbiting Earth have asked me to inform everyone that the IOA patient will be ready to commence their journey to Atlantis as soon as they have your message Lady Samantha and Master Jack are ready to leave the City for Earth."

Lya immediately answered. "Voice of Atlantis, thank them for the information, and confirm that we will contact them at the right time." Before adding with a smile and slight bow of honour, "Lady Vala you may continue."

With a smile, and a little bounce of excitement, rather than a bow to Lya, Vala immediately turned her attention back to Jack saying. "It will be short but heartfelt and no singing, Master Jack."

Jack couldn't help smiling back as he nodded his acceptance of what was to come knowing how much all that had happened would mean to her and silently waited.

A shiver ran through Vala as her expression and demeanour changed from bouncy excitement to the one Jack had seen when they'd talked privately at SGC, the one she kept hidden to all but a few, and tuned out everyone around her. Her voice was firm and clear, but gentle, as she started. "On behalf of all the space travellers who have come under your care and protection at Star Gate Command, over the years, thank you for giving us all a chance of a new future and protecting us while at DC, covertly or openly."

Seeing Jack was about to butt in and not wanting to break her mood, Vala kept eye contact with him, and gave a slight shake of her head willing him to understand her silent need. Her hair bunches gently flicking from side to side emphasizing her movement, silenced Jack and made him smile, which he made sure was warm and reassuring.

With eyes bright and a knowing look, with a hint of smile because he'd understood her and was willing to listen, Vala immediately continued. "I know you will say it was all a team effort and I agree with you. But you were the one who made sure those from other worlds and under SGC's protection were safe, and will have a future as you worked to protect the Tau'ri family on Earth, no matter what the outcome was. While on Atlantis you've laid down the building blocks for the future, our future along with the rescue of those on Destiny lost in Space. So thank you on their behalf and know your leadership, influence and care will be carried on into the future by those around you where ever they are."

Sensing Vala needed to say more, Jack stayed silent and nodded his acceptance of her words.

Taking a very short breath, her mind whizzing through how close the original SG1 family were, her brief contacts with Jack and what this parting must mean to him, she still kept eye contact with him and with a little nod to herself that it was right to do it, said with true feelings. "On a personal note. Thank you for listening to my fears, the advice you gave and actions taken so I now have a secure future. Have a life mate who I love and promise to keep safe from danger as we raise a family in our new home on Earth, and travel the seas of space in the Yggdrasil, on what ever missions SGC or you request. We will visit the Waterfall site and keep in touch via the Nox communication twigs as often as we can."

Without realising it, Vala gave an excited bounce and a slightly embarrassed smile, as she relaxed and couldn't help commenting. "They are so bright, so alive. I hope the jewels do not hurt and the different energies they have around them in life keep you well and safe. Bright shiny jewels and metals have always fascinated me and kept me safe through the years. I couldn't think what else I truly value to give you." Realising what she'd just admitted, she shrugged her shoulders and finished with a huge bright smile "The other choice was weapons and their skills that I keep close and kept me safe. I know you have your own weapons and unique skills that will keep you safe."

Smiling at her comments, the changes she'd just gone through as she spoke and knowing how heart felt her words and energy gifts were, Jack immediately turned serious as he answered truthfully. "Thank you for your precious gifts, their energies are soft and welcoming. Their brightness will calm down as all the other gifts disappear as they all give me back my true strength. I wish you well for your future and know I can trust Daniel will be safe in your care and love."

Knowing it was time to break out of their unique farewell, Jack with his 'oh so innocent' tone and expression, hoping it would bring his friend into the conversation without too much fuss, and that Vala would understand the move immediately, gave a slight nod to her and finished. "You might like to find another pair of handcuffs, the security guards will have some ordinary ones, even a long chain for when he buries his nose in the sand or books on the different ..."

Was immediately interrupted by the short sharp "JACK!" exclamation bursting from his friend, and making Vala and Sam both smile at Jack's tactics. And Vala, making sure she could see both Daniel and Jack at the same time, managed to stay silent and move to one side to watch what would happen next.

The atmosphere in the room changed again as Jack exclaimed back at his friend, "DANIEL!" in the tone of a friendly brother with a hint of a command running through it, rather than a commander to an errant member of his command who needed reprimanding in front of everyone. Though he would flip to that tone if needed, but was hoping to start their verbal dance of words that would still get points across in a more comfortable manner. They were after all saying goodbye as equals, both facing new futures, rather than him kicking his friend out because of what had happened, and Daniel was more than just a colleague, they had become 'family'. From their brief encounter at breakfast time and watching the group entering the Gate room, he'd noted the subtle differences in his friend, would have liked this goodbye chat to be in private but knew it couldn't happen nor could it be a long one. He also knew he didn't need to go all dramatic and enforce the Nox private forcefield and cause more tension in his friend, and others. Everyone here would respect the privacy needed and was glad the angry Daniel from the mind room was completely gone, that anger replaced by millions questions waiting to be answered and he had just given his friend that invitation to start. "Oh Joy!"

Though Vala had moved, Daniel stayed where he was still clutching the Ancient device a bit like an unconscious shield rather than the reminder he had to explain what had happened to it and give it back to his friend, and had used Vala as a proper shield while his mind was buzzing. It still was but he had managed to get those millions of questions in order and his emotions settled… sort of… had turned the page on his chat with Jack in the mind room. That had been weird … in fact what had happened before and this Atlantis trip had been totally weird. So had waking up with a life mate and facing a new life he knew nothing about. Just knew the myths around the name Yggdrasil, which didn't help. True, he and Vala had talked, he'd explained about his dream and feelings and she'd quietly done the same, they'd given each other supporting reassurances helping him know he could cope with it all.

As they'd walked to the Gate room his goodbye to Sam was good, her reassurances they would still have close contact was okay, after all he had a base on Earth so they would not be too far a way all the time. He and Cam had done their goodbye, and his goodbye to Teal'c would come later, all of them had gently reminded him there were bridges to build back at SGC as well as facing Jack. He knew that, and deep down he knew he and Jack were okay, so all he had to do was to get all his questions answered, but it didn't stop him feeling like an errant school boy while he sorted out those questions, get his emotions sorted and waited his turn. He had listened to Vala's heartfelt declaration and promise to Jack to keep him safe, that had stirred some of those emotions back up and Jack's reaction shot through every thing, brought back vivid memories of that episode he'd rather was forgotten, and his automatic defending whine exclamation of. "That is not fair! I was the victim, and, I don't need reminding of that episode." Before with a huff and true to form, instantly closed the page on that embarrassing episode, which pushed more pressing questions and statements to the front of his mind, making him forgot everyone around him, all the promises he made on hearing about Jack's past. As well as automatically turning on his well known, to those around him, that 'puppy dog eyes' and attitude of 'I'm here for you tell all and you'll feel better.'my very close friend, that went together with his gentle almost hurt huff and insistent. "You could have told me! We would have talked. I understand…"

Knowing exactly where his friend was going, changing his tone slightly Jack butted in quickly. "Daniel. Stop there. Remember what Teal'c said and you promised to keep it in the room. I can never talk about it. As for the handcuffs I see they will probably be needed if you have not changed your ways and heeded the protection the Ancient child and Atlantis have given you."

Jack's reprimanding tone in his first three words was still friendly and not shouted at him, if it had been in a crowded room no one else would have paid any attention to them, but the tone and words stopped Daniel's mind and words in their tracks making him pay attention and listen. Catching what Jack was saying and breaking eye contact with him, Daniel ducked his head as the truth really hit home this time. His friend and mentor had no happy memories of parents as he had, and discussing the past could even now bring danger to Jack and those close to him. And being honest with himself, Daniel knew, he still had not learnt the lesson of quelling his need to know everything, be the one with the right answers or obeying orders, so those remarks were justified.

In that instant, he remembered the very vivid dream/presence he'd woken with, discussed with Vala - his parents and Shar'e talking with him - and felt that ripple of resolve run through him again, giving him strength and really become part of him this time. The hankering for his parents' love and approval he'd lost and missed so much since their death was now settled into the knowledge he didn't have to hunt or long for any more, they were … are always with him, in his DNA and attitude to life and they were proud of him. As was Shar'e, who didn't want him to mourn their lost love and future any more, wanted him to share and enjoy this other new love and life with Vala. One would not smother the other they would run side by side. Also, with the skills he'd learnt and friendships made over the past years with SG1, he was now ready to take the next step and like the others, take on their new roles in life, after all nothing ever stayed the same.

Raising his head, feeling the change within him Daniel made eye contact with his friend/mentor, and in an unconscious movement he did when coming to a definite decision, nodded and huffed, before with true deep sincerity admitted. "I know I have bridges of trust to mend and I will do that. We have been there for each other through dangerous and peaceful times, trusted each other regardless. With all I've been through in the past I should have realised what was wrong and sought help, accepted what others saw rather than fuel the fire of the demon within me. Most of all, I am sorry I was not there for you when you needed me, when you asked for my help and advice. That will not happen again, to you or our space family."

Pausing for a very brief moment, to gather his thoughts to admit the rest so Jack and the others would understand things were really different this time, Daniel added."Like Cassie, I dreamt of my parents and Shar'e and this time I really understood they will always be with me and are proud of the person I have become. The person you've wanted me to be and our space family have made me. I promise I will listen to my life mate Vala and those around me as we step into the unknown future on Earth and on the Yggdrasil where ever it may take me." He finished with a slight smile that reached his eyes, confident Jack would understand the truth and depth of his words, as well as the unasked question at the end.

Watching Daniel duck his head at his reprimand, noting both Vala and Sam slight winces at Daniel's attitude and words, Jack silently hoped what he'd seen and felt in those brief meetings that morning would break through the barrier his friend had automatically put up as the group entered the Gate room. Now, watching Daniel raise his head, make eye contact with him, and listening to his words Jack knew his friend was finally at peace with his past and able to move on into the future with his new family. Then smiled slightly as he showed he'd not lost his old stubborn streak of needing answers. Only this time there was no whining challenge, just an understandable reference to the Yggdrasil.

Letting a ripple of their unique friendship settle in his mind knowing his friend would feel the whisper of it, Jack nodded a silent acknowledgement of Daniel's words and their truth, before true to form, immediately avoidd the matter by gently but firmly asking him. "Why are you cuddling that Ancient doohickey?"

Daniel huffed, realising what was going on and admitted. "I tried to disobey your order to stay in our room, wanting to show the Atlantis team something I had found on this information pad. Atlantis put up the forcefield that knocked me out and the rest you know. But John managed to get it working again and I should give it back to you. I'm sorry I didn't listen." and could not stop another huff knowing how much he would miss this information pad.

But before Daniel could make a move to hand it back, Jack gave a shake of his head and glanced over at John Shepard, who silently nodded to confirm that statement was true. Then he turned his attention back to his friend saying. "It is yours to keep, use and look after." Then as he hated giving long explanations and something else could do it better, he added in a slightly louder voice. "Is that not right Voice of Atlantis?"

Giving a mental ripple of delight that only Jack could feel, the Gate ring immediately gave the familiar flash of blue before the Voice of Atlantis stated. "That is correct. The device numbered twenty thousand and two, from what you call the Waterfall Site has been, by order of the Ancient Child, recharged, updated and will answer questions and store information given to it verbally or written by Master Daniel, Lady Vala, their future offspring and those they designate as designated users. As well as automatically linking with the Yggdrasil and the Raven when necessary to give or receive information.

"It also has, as your space family call it, a 'find me' mode that is linked with the device so it or the designated guardians can located it or they can be located. If necessary it will flash the message to Yggdrasil, Raven, this City, the Nox twig communicators and the Waterfall site Ancient repair department, without the need of the travelling gate being opened. Details regarding memory size, battery life and manual can be found in Settings via the appropriate icon on the screen. The icon is a small white box with blue vertical lines and number 5454 on the top. If there are any further problems please inform this City by the appropriate method and the correct advice can be given so the device …. will be sorted out."

Jack couldn't help smiling at the pause in the words while wondering if the voice of Atlantis was stopping itself from adding the words 'or person', and heard the gentlest of whispers in his mind of 'Indeed' in the same tone Teal'c would have used. And instantly flashed back his own exclamation of "oh forcryingoutloudbehave!" before turning his attention back to Daniel, noting that not only was Daniel smiling but so were Sam and John Shepard, he immediately turned serious saying firmly to Daniel. "Now you know who to call, don't do it again! Before you say anything else all I know is the Yggldrasil is a spacecraft given to you by Thor, just as he gave Sam the spacecraft the Raven. From what Lady Lya said you will find out everything when you and Vala get there." Glancing over at Vala, who was bouncing and smiling and then back at Daniel to show he was talking to both of them Jack quickly added. "Make sure you both have the right clothes when you do the meet and greet. Behave yourselves and check in with General Landry as soon as possible using the twig communicators rather than the one on the ship that might need the Gate to be opened."

Before Daniel could start his verbal huff of 'Jack, you must know more considering you mentioned code of dress tell me all, you will feel better', and 'that' look of his. Lady Lya had given a quick nod to Nafrayu, who positively beamed with delight and glanced down at the small flat packets he'd been silently holding in front of him all this time, before she raised her voice stating, rather than asking. "Masters Jack and Daniel If I may butt in?"

Of course, everyone immediately turned their attention to Lady Lya, who was smiling at Nafrayu's excited walk towards Jack's group, carrying those small parcels so they rested flat on his hands out in front of him. Having everyone's attention, Lya immediately turned serious and announced. "Time for leaving is coming quickly, so I will do this now Master Jack. The Nox family would like to present Lady Vala and Master Daniel with the cloaks of honour that should be worn when arriving on the planet where the Yggldrasil is situated. They should also be worn when first entering the craft, and as necessary when visiting other planets so be kept with you on your travels. Master Anteaus will give Master Teal'c his and explain everything as you travel. Elder Opher will present Master Jon and Lady Cassie with theirs and you will have yours before we arrive on Earth."

Taking a breath, but not allowing time for any comment from Jack as he came to terms with what she'd announced, she turned her attention to Daniel saying. "Concerning the Yggldrasil, the spacecraft and the connection to the myths told on our planet, the Asgard's and apparently yours as well. For ourselves we give trees very high status and consideration as their roots not only give life to the tree but also, in their own way, communicate with other trees and plant life around them, as well as stabilizing the earth they live in. Their canopies give shelter to those below and travel routes to those that live in them. When they die as all living things must, their wood becomes fuel, building materials for others or returns to the earth while giving more animals food and habitat. Also their seeds can be carried away and consumed by others or planted so carrying on the circle of life along with stories passed on through the ages ensuring this carries on."

Giving a slight nod as she brought her mind back to the reason she was explaining everything Lya added. "Obviously the Yggldrasil is not a tree, but a craft that travels the seas of the universe. As Master Thor and the Asgard are no longer with us, may they rest in peace, new guardians are required for both Yggldrasil and Raven. We do not know where they came from originally and only those who are the guardians understand or know their purpose, so they are kept in the shadows.

"Master Thor may have guided this action knowing Master Jack and Lady Samantha along with their other talents are protectors, so like the Raven they deal in death but also respect and guard life by being present at that time. Also Master Daniel deals in the history of the worlds and negotiates with those who live now, so is a person of teaching but can now defend himself and others when needed." Glancing at Jack she continued. "I believe Master Jack, you mentioned he is the Soul of SG1 and gives respectful advice to all the team and family." Seeing his slight nod of pride and acknowledgement, Lya gave her full attention back to the couple adding. "Lady Vala is now the life mate and guardian warrior of Master Daniel and their family of the future, and as guardians will keep the secrets of the Yggdrasil as Master Jack and Lady Samantha do for the Raven. I now ask you to cover yourselves with the cloaks and leave with Master Anteaus." before giving a slight bow to include Daniel and Jack and finishing. "I apologize for butting in and drawing your goodbyes to a quick end."

No one was going to argue with Lady Lya, least of all Jack, who knew he'd not be able to answer any of Daniel's unspoken questions, which would start their so called trademark Jack and Daniel conversations back and forth and could turn angry making their parting an unhappy one. He didn't want that, he also knew they would meet up again at the birthing ceremony, and Daniel had come a long way from their first meeting, was an experienced warrior and explorer with the need for this independence to flourish and have his own life. All that didn't make this any easier, he would miss his friend, so Jack stayed silent and nodded his acceptance to Lady Lya. Then like everyone else Jack turned his attention back to Daniel and Vala and watched Nafrayu stop in front of Vala, and give a slight bow to not only show honour but so she could take the parcel and he could do the same with Daniel.

Nafrayu, seeing Vala's excited smile slip slightly as she registered the parcel looked dull and way too small to be cloaks, he explained excitedly. "Lady Vala, hold the cloak by the top and shake it so it becomes longer, then wrap it round your shoulders and it will do the rest. They can also become short cloaks, robes or protective covers so you can sleep in if you are in the countryside and need their protection." before bowing slightly in honour of the whole situation and the fact he was doing an adult's job.

Carefully and with a little trepidation, realising the material was a forcefield as well as this whole thing being a huge honour, 'more than she deserved considering her past', Vala did as asked and immediately the material became beautiful tones of brown and green, with hints of gold, silver and yellow woven within the silk like material forcefield. With a little 'wow' escaping from her lips and seeing Sam's smile and nod of support, Vala then with an expert's flourish, put the forcefield material round her shoulders. Could feel the gentle material fall and cover the rest of her body to just above ankle length, becoming a long sleeved hooded robe that would give her freedom of movement rather than cloak she would have to fling back to keep her arms free.

As Daniel and Nafrayu worked out the way of exchanging the forcefield parcel and Daniel's Ancient device so neither fell on the floor or the moves look disrespectful, Vala silently and quickly checked out her robe, realised there would be enough give in the forcefield for her to cover any weapons she might need to carry, after all she was Daniel's protector and moving her feet so she took a step to one side realised it seemed to instantly adjust itself so it wouldn't tangle with her legs. Also there were flat clasps across her front fastening the two sides of the robe together and as she ran her fingers over one knew it would hold closed but would open in an instant should the need arise. Wow! And glancing at Jack as she turned her attention to Daniel, noted the General's slight smile and nod and knew he thought the same.

Having successfully swapped the Ancient device for the flat parcel of forcefield material, Daniel followed Vala's earlier movements and as the material touched his shoulders it formed a nearly identical long sleeved full length hooded robe. The differences were in the colours, they were all darker shades and an opening on one side of the robe so he could slip the Ancient device in it and keep his hands free. Amazed and fascinated by the whole thing and with some trepidation, Daniel took the device from Nafrayu who nodded and said quietly. "The pocket is strong enough to carry it and will not harm it Master Daniel. The forcefield will automatically adjust to provide other pockets should you need them, and they will not be obvious to any one watching and totally secure. Touch the clasps and the robe and the pockets will open. If necessary it will stay as a robe if you put it back on. Or it can be returned to the pack you were presented with and be easy to pack and over looked by anyone else. Your touch and thoughts will inform the forcefield what to do Master Daniel and Lady Vala." Before bowing slightly and stepping back to give the couple space, he added. "Safe travels, future and health."

His thoughts and emotions still adjusting to everything, Daniel bowed, and knowing Vala was doing the same said for the both of them. "Thank you Nafrayu, safe travels, future and health." Turning his attention to Lya and after a bow said, with true feeling and respect. "Lady Lya and the Nox, family thank you for this great honour, we will treasure the gifts and treat them with the respect they deserve and wish you all safe travels, future and health."

Lya nodded and said. "The Nox family treasure the gifts SG1 have given them in the past and the new life the one you call the Phoenix will enjoy. It is time for you and Lady Vala to join Master Teal'c, as Nafrayu has said we the Nox family, wish you both safe travels, future and health."

With that Daniel and Jack made eye contact again, both knowing how difficult this was for each other stayed silent, till Jack nodded and said. "Keep in touch and stay safe. Now go."

Daniel nodded, silently knowing he couldn't stay, but could feel the strength of his unique bond with Jack return and strength before glancing over at Sam. Seeing her nod and smile he knew she would keep an eye on Jack for him. Vala, who was grinning and still bouncing with excitement walked gracefully to his side. Danel glanced back at Jack and said. "Twig calls as soon as we can Jack." then started to make their way towards Teal'c and Anteaus expecting the personnel who were looking after their go bags etc to move as well.

Jack, Sam and the others only had time to take in how regal the couple looked before Anteaus nodded to Lya, raised his hands and clapped them. Then Teal'c, Daniel, Vala and Anteaus vanished without a sound, as did their go bags etc leaving only a few behind and shocked personnel who'd been looking after them.

Getting his breath back, his emotions under control as he took in the empty space in front of him, Jack glanced to Lya and comment. "Trust they took the right bags, because I'd hate the extra time and cost to return all of Daniel's books and get Lady Samantha's or my things back!"

Lya smiled and knew by Jack's mental flash of"Thank you" that he understood doing it quickly was the best way for both of them, and with a slight bow answered. "They took the right ones. Now it is your turn Master Jack and Lady Samantha."

"You might have a problem there Lady Lya." Jack commented and Samantha frowned at that comment, as did Lya who tilted her head slightly giving him silent permission to carry on. Which Jack did. "You've said I am unable to travel via travelling gates."

Smiling Lya answered. "That is true Master Jack. I believe on your world, you have various means of transport to take you from place to place called buses, cabs, taxis or rickshaws."

Enjoying the break in tensions this was giving him and seeing Sam smiling as well, Jack commented "Rickshaws might take a while and be a bit draughty as they are open the elements, and usually have a person to peddle the bike part. So you are going to hail a space taxis or cab?"

With a gentle chuckle Lya nodded, turned her attention back to the others and announced. "Masters Shepard, Woolsey, and the Day Officer with your permission?"

All three were smiling, while wondering what rabbit she was going to pull out of the hat this time, and nodded. Lya immediately turned to the Gate and said. "Voice of Atlantis, request and then allow the space taxi's passage into this room to collect and then deliver Lady Samantha, Master Jack and myself to the Nox travelling city to return them to Earth safely." While sending the same information mentally to the Nox travelling city above the planet.

The rim of the Stargate flashed blue once, then the Voice of Atlantis announced. "Lady Lya. The Space Taxi will arrive in ten minutes. To allow the correct procedures for leaving to be carried out, the portal for arriving and exiting of manual craft will now open."

With that the centre of the Gate rings and the wall behind silently cleared allowing easy access for the requested vehicle to enter.

As he watched the portal appear Jack smiled, and looking over at Lya commented. "At least we don't have to walk down to the pier to get aboard. Thank you." then as he liked the phrase and really needed to know he was not going to be squashed into a tin can of some sort, tried to sound casual as he added. "I assume the space taxi takes us to the travelling city, rather than straight back to Earth."

Lya smiled and gave a soft chuckle, having sensed Jack's fears, she answered easily, "It will take us to our proper form of transport for our trip to the Waterfall Site. The taxi has a driver, ample room for luggage and seats for four people of your stature, so you will be able to keep a safe distance and not be cramped. It also has a clear dome for ease of visual awareness of ones surroundings, the journey to our proper transport will be very short. Elder Ohper informs me Master Jon will soon be ready to give them a quick test drive of the new spacecraft for NightOwl's dragon quest. Master Jack."

Understanding time was short and the Nox bird he'd nicknamed the Phoenix was probably on the way there, and he didn't want a near space miss between any of the space vehicles, especially Jon's, Jack nodded, got his thoughts together regarding the next phase, glanced in turn at John, Richard and Sam then announced to them. "Change of command show time, folks." Seeing their looks of horror he smiled at Sam and said quietly. "I know you did a local thank you speech and sorted out bits and pieces with John, this one is the official one and to everyone, you don't have to name names call them the Atlantis family if you like. Also confirm there will be a rota for all service and civilian personnel for the Waterfall Site via Stargate Command." then glancing at the two men concerned in the next bit added, "Add in you know Atlantis will be in safe hands under the command of Brigadier General John Shepard and Mr Richard Woolsey of the IOA Committee and the joint stewardship of Home World Security and Stargate Command."

Sam's mind had been spinning and buzzing with excitement for the journey to the Waterfall site on a Nox ship and all the fascinating space equipment there would be on board and how she might get Lya to show her. As well as what might be at the site, so had forgot about that little technicality till Jack's announcement, so was for once wide eyed and speechless and could only splutter out. "Really!"

Jack silently loved it when Sam was like this, providing it didn't last long of course, never did really as her quick mind got into gear and solved the problem in hand. So he nodded and immediately turned to Richard and John saying. "Don't worry it will be the shortened version and you will not need to say anything, John you salute Sam and myself, Richard you shake hands with Sam not me obviously, otherwise you might go all glowy. Cam you will be the Officer witness for General Landry and the Commander in Chief and take documents and visual evidence back with you as they are not here and as usual can not go public. I will take the lead and do the announcement."

Then glancing at everyone including Lya he added. "Before we start there is one other thing you all should know that is on a need to know basis with no actual end date yet. We will be going public when the Destiny comes home, and if needs be Atlantis will help or just act as escort to the Destiny and the Nox family so everyone can acknowledge their thanks. Richard, the IOA committee will be there representing their countries. With the Waterfall site likely to be another outpost, with craft coming and going and could take over from Stargate Command, our secret will be way too big to keep under wraps."

Seeing their startled looks turn into nods of agreement along with Lya's smile and nod, Jack turned so he was facing the Gate and the silent officer of the Day and to them announced. "Officer of the Day and Voice of Atlantis, record and sort out all the necessary paper work for the change of command of Atlantis City and then go City wide with a polite announcement verbal and written that everyone's attention is needed."

Feeling the familiar mental tingle of the Voice, Jack shot it the mental message "Behave!" and got the gentle mental answer "Of Course. You have commanded me correctly ... it is done and awaits your final command. I believe Lady Samantha needs a moment before I do the announcement. Master Jon is not quite ready to start his test run with those who are going with him. The stores will be on board as soon as they return, by that time their visitor should have arrived."

Jack mentally nodded he understood, before turning to Sam saying quietly "Take a breath, you will be fine, just no technobable okay. We need to be ready for the space taxi or there may well be a space pile up or queue."

Sam couldn't help smiling at that vision and getting her mind into gear, realizing it was not meant to be a long winded speech anyway, she straightened up to come to attention and noted John and Richard had already made their way so they could stand beside her and face the Stargate which would become a screen showing in sections the various gathering points and staff, she nodded she was ready, and knew everyone in the City would understand this was different from the usual change over of command. Atlantis and personnel now would be part of the growing fleet of spacecraft that would use the Waterfall site as the base.

Seeing Sam's nod and Richard and John, were ready, with Cam making sure he was visible Jack said. "Duty Officer of the Day are you ready?"

Looking up from the computer monitor the officer replied, his voice having that edge of amazement in it. "Sir, all documents required have been found and ready for Voice of Atlantis to fill in as necessary, I will visual check them as it happens and they will be ready for signatures as required before you leave. Also Master Cameron will be able to take them and the visual record to General Landry when he returns to Earth with the Midway Team, who will return here via the Nox family's travelling gate."

Satisfied he could not delay anything any longer, Jack knew Lya and Nafrayuwould stand quietly and watch, so turned to face the Stargate and announced. "Voice of Atlantis, start the announcements and bring up the screens throughout the City."

The Gate's outer rims flashed, the centre covered over started to show the main areas where people were now stopping and watching those screens appearing and saw in writing, as well as heard the Voice of Atlantis's announcement. "Space family of Atlantis your attention is required for the change over of command."

The group straightened up to attention and were smiling as they waited for the announcement to finish as Jack had said very quietly. "It will be fine. They all know there will be cake tonight, minus two pieces for us already packed in my go bag, of course."

oxoxo

There we will leave them, till real life and characters allow me to come back to you. So take care and have fun.

Thank you for taking the time and reading, as usual thoughts, comments and reviews always welcome.