An urgent meeting had been convened in the Oval Office with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and General Landry following his phone briefing to the President regarding the other party's intentions. Upon Landry's arrival, he found everyone already deep in discussion, their voices hushed as he entered.
"Mister President, Generals," Landry greeted as he entered, offering a salute.
Kevin Young, standing by the window, turned to Landry.
"They want her back?" he queried, adjusting his red-striped tie.
Landry nodded solemnly and presented the letter. A man whom Landry didn't recognize stepped forward, taking the letter and scrutinizing it.
"This is Professor Adam Storm. He's not officially part of my staff, but he's well-versed in the intricacies of the Stargate Program and international legal matters. He's provided invaluable assistance to us before," Young introduced.
Professor Storm, a man in his sixties, commanded attention as he stood imposingly. His stature exuded confidence and wisdom, his neatly trimmed white and gray beard framing striking features. Piercing blue eyes scrutinized Landry, who couldn't help but feel he was being evaluated like in high school. Dressed impeccably in a dark blue tailored suit, Professor Storm examined the letter again, allowing Landry to resume breathing.
"What's your opinion, Adam?" Young asked, addressing the scholar by his first name, indicating a close rapport.
All eyes in the room turned expectantly toward the legal expert.
"Well, without delving into the mundane legal intricacies, I'll start by saying that extradition typically hinges on various factors such as the severity of the offense, the strength of evidence, and relevant legal and diplomatic considerations," Professor Storm began, his voice carrying weight as the room fell into a peaceful silence. It was a familiar reaction whenever he spoke.
"However, in this case, we face something unprecedented—different realities. We're not dealing with another country where the offense occurred; we're confronting the complexities of alternate dimensions, a concept known to only a select few," he continued his tone grave.
General Michael Hall, the Air Force's Chief of Staff, cleared his throat, breaking the tense silence.
"I'm certainly not an expert in legal matters, but Samantha Carter is no longer a member of the Air Force. She's a civilian now. Does that have any implications?" he queried.
Adam Storm regarded him with an amused expression.
"That's a rather intriguing question, General, that could work in our favor if we oppose this extradition request. The fact that she's no longer bound by military discipline is noteworthy. I was about to mention it myself, but you beat me. Well done," he commended, his tone a mix of condescension and surprise.
General Hall felt the weight of everyone's attention on him and cleared his throat nervously. "I just used a bit of logic," he replied modestly.
General Landry decided to offer support to his superior officer. "Sometimes, logic is our greatest ally, Sir," he said, his expression encouraging.
The other generals nodded in agreement, indicating their inclination against returning Doctor Carter to her reality, though it was still too early to make a definitive decision.
The President sat back in his chair, his expression pensive.
"So, what's your opinion, Adam? Do they have legitimate grounds for this demand?" he inquired.
Professor Storm placed the letter on the President's desk and began to pace, considering his response carefully.
"Playing devil's advocate, they do have grounds. Speaking only within the military scope, she was a Colonel in the US Air Force when she left her reality, which technically constitutes desertion. So, they are within their rights to request her return," he began slowly.
General Landry swallowed hard, recalling the classified report he had received from Jack regarding the assault Doctor Carter had endured at the hands of the other O'Neill. It had left him appalled.
"However, given the circumstances of her departure, we could argue that she was seeking sanctuary out of fear for her life. Furthermore, considering the sensitive nature of her assault, which may not be public knowledge, we could leverage that as well, especially now that the other O'Neill has been promoted to Chief of Staff of the Air Force. Does he want that stain on his record?" Professor Storm posed smoothly.
It seemed that Professor Storm had also been briefed on this matter, and Hank couldn't help but interject, unable to contain himself. "But in that case, we would have to disclose to everyone that she was raped," he pointed out.
"And? What's the issue if it's a means to ensure her safety here?" Storm countered in a cold, detached tone, leaving Hank without a rebuttal.
Meanwhile, the President turned his attention to General Walker, the Chairman of the JCS.
"You've been rather quiet today, General," he remarked.
General Thomas Walker cleared his throat before responding.
"I've been weighing the merits and drawbacks of this situation, Sir. I must provide you with the most comprehensive counsel possible," he explained slowly.
The President continued to scrutinize Walker. "And?" he pressed for further insight.
"And although I believe she technically deserted when she left her reality, she undoubtedly had a compelling reason to do so. We're all aware of the details. General Jack O'Neill provided us with a thorough report, and I must admit, I was shocked. Regardless of the reality, such behavior from an officer is reprehensible, and he should be court-martialed and discharged from the Air Force, my recommendation being dishonorable. To subject a woman and an officer under his command to such abuse runs deep in my veins. I apologize for the bluntness," General Walker stated, his frustration evident in his tone.
Hank swallowed hard, surprised by the Chairman's emotional response. He had never seen General Walker so affected before.
The President nodded solemnly.
"I appreciate your input, General, and I concur. We were all deeply troubled by General O'Neill's report. It's clear that we stand united against succumbing to this baseless blackmail," he affirmed, addressing the room.
Each of the generals nodded in agreement. Kevin Young turned to his friend and legal advisor, Adam Storm. "So, Adam, what's our next move? How do we respond to these demands?" he inquired.
Adam Storm smiled confidently. "I'll draft the legal response, but I also recommend arranging a meeting with General O'Neill—preferably with the presence of the other Daniel as well. If he brings additional personnel, include them too. They can serve as witnesses, particularly considering we're invoking the assault issue," he advised.
Hank swallowed nervously. "Who will lead the negotiations, Sir? He outranks me," he pointed out.
General Walker rose from his seat.
"No, he doesn't, Landry. He's in our reality now, and we're in charge here. We'll acknowledge his rank as a courtesy, but we're done extending further courtesies. He's merely a visitor and an unwelcome one at that. He'll be treated accordingly," he instructed firmly.
Blushing slightly, Landry nodded in understanding. "Yes, Sir."
"I'll be joining you as well," Adam Storm announced.
Hank felt relief, knowing he wouldn't have to navigate the legal complexities alone.
But General Walker wasn't finished. "What's the status on the Stargate?" he inquired.
Clearing his throat, Landry provided an update.
"Doctor Carter has managed to delay the gate activations, but she indicated she'll need more time to halt them. That was the status when I departed from the SGC," he explained.
The room erupted into a brief flurry of discussion, quickly quelled by the President's commanding voice.
"Very well. One step at a time. Doctor Carter remains here while they depart for good; even if we have to use guns to force them back to the Gate and their reality, I don't care. Use whatever force is needed if they don't comply. You have my permission. Then, we need to address the situation with the Stargate and ensure we're no longer vulnerable to attack. Please convey this message to Doctor Carter," the President instructed, locking eyes with Landry.
"I will, Sir," Landry affirmed.
Adam Storm also turned to him. "Do we have a timeframe?" he inquired.
Landry nodded. "Two days".
"I'll finalize our legal response and join you at the SGC," Storm confirmed.
The meeting concluded, and Landry prepared to be beamed back to the SGC. There was much to discuss, and he hoped Doctor Carter had made some progress in her efforts.
After a quick breakfast at the cafeteria with Jack, Sam returned to the control room, diving back into Zelenka's intricate coding. She was starting to unravel its complexities, but it was clear that he had invested a significant amount of time into its design, time she didn't have. As she typed away, Jack approached and informed her that she was needed in the briefing room.
"Landry's here," he relayed.
Sam's heart raced as she went to the briefing room with Jack. Upon entering, she found everyone seated, and she and Jack slowly took their places. Despite her inner turmoil, Sam managed to maintain a composed exterior.
"Doctor Carter, how are things with our Stargate?" Landry inquired as soon as she sat down.
Sam met his gaze steadily. "Essentially the same, General. I'm starting to grasp the code better, but I haven't been able to override it yet," she admitted.
Landry exchanged a silent glance with Reynolds before returning to Sam.
"A decision has been reached regarding the demand made by the O'Neill from your reality, Doctor Carter, and the President has tasked me with informing you," he began.
Jack tightened his grip on Sam's hand, offering silent support. "Cut to the chase, Hank," he interjected.
Clearing his throat, Landry continued, "After consulting with a legal expert and hearing from the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President has decided you are here to stay, Doctor Carter. We will not bow to anyone's blackmail, and military obligations no longer bind you. You are a civilian now and one of us."
He paused briefly before adding, "When they arrive, I will lead the negotiations along with Professor Adam Storm, our legal expert. The President also urges you to resolve the issue with the Stargate to prevent further attacks. That's all," he concluded.
Sam, who had been holding her breath, released it in a rush. "So, I can stay?" she sought confirmation.
Landry nodded affirmatively. "Yes, Doctor Carter. You belong to this reality now, and we protect our people. They will leave after the meeting, willingly or by force. Whatever force is needed, they will leave. Those are the orders I have," he detailed.
Jack swallowed hard. "Can I be present at that meeting, Hank?" he asked.
Landry shook his head. "No, Jack. And you know exactly why you can't be present in that meeting," he said firmly.
Reynolds rose from his seat, signaling for the others to leave.
"Jack, Doctor Carter, please stay a little longer," Landry requested as they rose from their seats. Sam and Jack exchanged a glance before sitting back down.
Landry interlocked his hands.
"One of the points we will use in your defense is your assault, Doctor Carter. I believe you should know this since it might become known by more people than those currently aware," he said slowly.
Sam paled. "You're using my rape?" she asked in a trembling voice.
Uncomfortable, Landry nodded.
Jack placed his hand over hers. "Is that necessary, Hank?" he asked.
Landry nodded again. "Professor Storm believes it will be useful not only to emphasize that you left your reality out of fear for your life, seeking sanctuary here, but also as leverage against the other O'Neill, given his now prominent public position. He doubts the assault is common knowledge," he explained.
Sam lowered her head. "I never pressed charges," she admitted quietly.
Landry cleared his throat. "Professor Storm is convinced that simply mentioning it in the presence of witnesses from his reality would be enough to make him back off," he said.
"So, you're trying to shame him? Is that your great strategy?" Jack's voice rose with anger.
Landry swallowed. "Calm down, Jack. This is precisely why you can't be at the meeting. Because we all know what you would do to him as soon as you saw him. And yes, publicly shaming a high-ranking officer is a strategy," he confirmed.
Sam lifted her head and looked at Landry again.
"Fine. Please do it. If you want a signed testimony, I'll provide one," she said determinedly.
Landry raised an eyebrow. "That... that is an excellent suggestion, Doctor Carter if you're willing to do it," he said.
Jack held her hand tighter. "Are you sure, Sam?" he asked.
She nodded. "Yes, if this strengthens my defense to stay here, let's make it as powerful as possible. Besides, I'm not ashamed of what happened to me. He raped me," she declared.
Jack swallowed, his pride in her growing with each passing moment they were together.
"Do it, Hank. Call that professor and see if this helps," he said.
Landry stood up.
"I'll call him right away. And Doctor Carter, you are entirely right. He's the aggressor, and he's the one who should be ashamed of his appalling actions. Never you," he affirmed before leaving the briefing room.
Sam bit her lip. "Jack, I'm going to need a moment. Can we return to our room?" she asked, visibly shaken.
Jack could see her distress and nodded firmly. "Of course. Let's go," he said, guiding her out of the room.
Alone in their room, Sam wrapped her arms around Jack's neck, seeking comfort. Jack instinctively pulled her close, holding her tightly as he felt her rapid breaths against his neck.
"I've got you," he murmured, gently rubbing her back.
"I can stay, Jack. They let me stay," she whispered after a while, her voice filled with relief.
Jack smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Yes, no need to move or pack," he assured her, his arms still around her.
Sam pulled back slightly to look at him.
"I have to figure out how to override their code, Jack. After this, I have even more reasons to protect this reality," she said, determination in her voice.
Jack smiled reassuringly. "I'm sure you will, honey. Your brilliant mind will come up with something sooner or later," he said, brushing his lips against her forehead.
Sam closed her eyes, leaning into his touch.
"My brilliant mind has been rather slow lately," she admitted softly.
Jack chuckled, his fingers gently combing through her hair. "I'm afraid I can't help you with this task, and even Grace's brilliance isn't enough. We make a very pale team of Avengers," he joked.
Sam looked at him, puzzled. "Avengers?" she repeated.
Jack took a deep breath, a smile playing on his lips.
"Yes. When I told your daughter that you were sick at the clinic and had been carrying your shield alone for too long, she made a parallel with Captain America. She's Hulk, by the way, and I am—" he paused dramatically "—Thor. I'm thinking of enlisting our little black cat as the Black Panther. So, we are the Avengers," he explained.
Sam's eyes widened suddenly, an expression of revelation dawning on her face.
"Avengers! Oh my God... you're a freaking genius," she exclaimed, kissing him passionately.
Jack kissed her back, caught off guard by her sudden enthusiasm. She pulled away abruptly, her mind racing.
"Avengers. Wow! Why didn't I think of that?" she wondered aloud, then left the room almost running. Jack watched her go, still tasting her kiss on his lips, scratching his head in total bewilderment.
Sam burst into General Reynolds' office like a whirlwind, bypassing the usual courtesy of knocking.
"I've got it. I know how to override their code," she exclaimed, her breath coming in short gasps.
Inside, both Reynolds and Landry regarded her with puzzled expressions.
"Excuse me, Doctor?" Reynolds inquired.
Sam took a moment to catch her breath, attempting to compose herself. She had rushed from her room to his office, fueled by urgency.
"I'm sorry, General, but I have the solution to our problems," she clarified, speaking more slowly this time.
Landry and Reynolds exchanged a glance, indicating their readiness for her explanation.
"Give us the short version, and then we can schedule a meeting for more details," Landry suggested.
Sam nodded, swallowing hard as her mouth suddenly felt dry. "Right. Short version. You're familiar with Dr. Jay Felgar, right?" she began.
Both Reynolds and Landry nodded, though with a hint of skepticism. "Yes, we are. He no longer works here," Reynolds said, a slight relief in his voice.
"Dr. Felgar created a computer virus called Avenger, which ran inside the crystals of a DHD and rendered the selected Stargate inoperative. We encountered issues with it when Ba'al modified the original Avenger program, but we managed to fix it. We can do it again," Sam explained excitedly.
At that moment, Jack arrived, also a little out of breath, and caught the tail end of Sam's explanation.
"Ba'al? That guy's dead," he interjected as he entered the office and closed the door, something Sam had overlooked in her haste.
Sam glanced him in the eye before continuing. Meanwhile, Landry and Reynolds were still processing the solution she had provided.
"So, you're saying you can create a virus to stop this?" Reynolds sought clarification.
Sam shook her head, correcting him, "It's the other way around, General. They infected us with a virus. That's what my mind recognized in bits when I started working on the code. They've sent us a virus and are holding our Stargate hostage. I'll create a new anti-virus program to prevent this type of tampering again."
Landry finally smiled. "That's good news. And you can do that, Doctor?" he inquired.
Sam nodded determinedly. "Now that I know what's been done, I know exactly what to do. I'll need a few hours," she affirmed confidently.
Jack couldn't help but beam with pride. "And this is why my wife is a genius," he declared.
Sam blushed at the praise, shooting him another warning glance.
Landry wasted no time, reaching for the phone to call the White House. "You have a go, Doctor Carter. Make that anti-virus," he instructed.
Sam left and returned to the control room, muttering "Avenger" as she sat down and began to type. Who would have thought that Jay Felger's idea would save their reality? She would kiss him if he were there. And Jack wasn't watching, of course.