Chapter 56: The Wedding

Word Count: 7,510

Location: Stargate Command, Gate Room
Time: The Day of the Wedding

The Gate Room had never looked more beautiful—or more otherworldly. Cascading Asgard crystals, borrowed from their vast reserves, hung alongside banners adorned with symbols from the Milky Way and Ori galaxies. Glowing floral arrangements from alien worlds lined the sides, casting a warm, ethereal light across the space. In the center stood the Stargate, its inner ring locked in a continuous, gentle rotation, giving the room a soft hum of energy.

The air buzzed with anticipation as guests arrived from across the galaxies. Representatives from the Asgard, Jaffa, Tok'ra, and even some distant allies in the Ori galaxy had gathered to witness this historic union. This wedding was more than just a celebration of love—it was a testament to unity, peace, and the incredible journey they'd all shared.

Jack, in full dress uniform, stood at the entrance, directing guests with his usual mix of charm and sarcasm. "Asgard to the left, Jaffa to the right, everyone else... just find a seat and enjoy the show."

Daniel, adjusting his tie beside Jack, chuckled. "Not every day you see this much galactic diversity in one room."

"Or see Jack playing usher," Sam added with a grin as she joined them. "He's surprisingly good at it."

"Thank you, Carter. Years of practice wrangling SG teams." Jack winked.

Teal'c, standing stoically near the front row, gave a subtle nod to the arriving Jaffa and Tok'ra, a silent but powerful acknowledgment of the significance of this day. Beside him, Rodney McKay looked slightly uncomfortable in formal attire, fidgeting as he glanced around at the mix of dignitaries and warriors filling the room.

"It's like a cosmic United Nations in here," McKay muttered. "Minus the bickering. So far."

Sam elbowed him. "Behave, Rodney. This is a wedding, not a symposium."

Location: The Bride's Room, SGC

In a nearby room, Adria stood before a mirror, gazing at her reflection with a mixture of nervousness and awe. She wore a gown that blended Earth and Ori styles, crafted from delicate, shimmering fabric with flowing designs that seemed to move like starlight. Her orange-red eyes glowed softly, a reminder of her unique heritage and newfound place in the universe.

Sam entered, her eyes lighting up. "Adria, you look incredible."

Adria turned, a shy smile on her face. "Thank you, Sam. I... I never imagined a day like this. It feels almost unreal."

Sam stepped closer, adjusting one of the flowing pieces on her gown. "It's very real. You deserve this happiness, Adria. And James... he's head over heels for you."

Adria's eyes shimmered with gratitude. "I don't know what I did to deserve him."

Sam laughed softly. "Trust me, you're perfect for each other. Now, are you ready?"

Adria took a deep breath and nodded, feeling her heart race with excitement and love. "Yes. More than ready."

Location: The Groom's Room, SGC

In another room, James adjusted the lapels of his formal attire, feeling uncharacteristically nervous. His usual confidence seemed to vanish as he stared into the mirror, wondering if he was truly prepared for what was about to happen.

A knock at the door broke his thoughts, and Daniel stepped in with a grin. "Need a pep talk?"

James laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Maybe. This is... kind of overwhelming."

Daniel placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You've faced ascended beings, cosmic threats, and galactic empires, but a wedding makes you nervous?"

"This is different," James admitted. "This is... personal. She's everything to me, Daniel."

Daniel smiled knowingly. "Then you're ready. Let's get you out there."

With a final deep breath, James nodded, his resolve solidifying. This was the moment he'd been waiting for, the culmination of everything they'd fought for.

Location: Stargate Command, Gate Room
Time: The Ceremony Begins

The murmurs in the Gate Room quieted as the music began, a soft, otherworldly melody played on Asgardian instruments that seemed to resonate with the very walls. James stood at the front, waiting, his eyes fixed on the entrance. As the doors opened, Adria appeared, escorted by Teal'c, who wore a proud expression that softened slightly as he led her down the aisle.

She walked slowly, her gaze locked on James, her eyes glowing with warmth and emotion. Around her, the gathered guests couldn't help but be captivated by her presence. She was, in many ways, a symbol of the bridge between galaxies—a reminder of how far they'd come.

When Adria reached James, Teal'c gave a respectful nod, stepping back to join SG-1. James took her hands, his heart pounding as he looked into her glowing eyes, marveling at the love and trust he saw there.

The officiant, an elder Asgard named Heimdall, began to speak, his voice soft yet resonant. "We are gathered here not only to witness the union of two souls but to celebrate the peace and unity they represent. Through their love, the galaxies are brought together in harmony."

James and Adria exchanged vows, their words filled with promises of devotion, partnership, and hope for a future they would build together. As they spoke, their bond seemed to deepen, an unbreakable connection forged by love, trust, and their shared journey.

As they completed their vows, a sudden warmth filled the room, a soft glow emanating from nowhere and everywhere at once. A presence, ancient and serene, seemed to settle over the gathering, filling each heart with a profound sense of peace.

The ascended Alterans, unseen but felt by all, had arrived. James and Adria both sensed their presence, a quiet acknowledgment that transcended words. It was a blessing, a silent gratitude for the defeat of the Ori and the peace it had brought.

A gentle, radiant light enveloped Adria and James, creating a connection between them that pulsed with warmth and life. Adria's eyes glowed brighter, and James felt a surge of energy, a new depth to his connection with her. He could sense her thoughts, her emotions, as though their souls had intertwined in a way that defied explanation.

The ascended Alterans' blessing seemed to awaken something within both of them. James's Gamer System flashed in his mind, a hidden quest completed:

Quest Completed: Unity Across Galaxies
Reward: A shared bond of power and consciousness with Adria

A new sense of strength and understanding filled him as he felt Adria's presence within him, a warmth and clarity that went beyond any power he'd known. It wasn't just his own strength anymore; it was theirs, united and complete.

Adria, sensing this shared connection, gazed at him with wonder. "James... I feel you, truly. It's like... our souls are one."

James smiled, squeezing her hands. "We're unstoppable now, Adria. Together, nothing in the universe can stand against us."

Location: The Reception Hall, SGC
Time: Following the Ceremony

The reception was a celebration like no other. Tables were laden with food from across the galaxies, and laughter filled the air as guests mingled, sharing stories and toasts. The Asgard had even created a holographic display of galaxies colliding and merging, a symbolic display of unity and hope.

Jack raised a glass, grinning mischievously. "To the happy couple, who managed to pull off an intergalactic romance and save the universe in the process. Here's hoping they take a vacation before the next cosmic threat."

Laughter filled the room as everyone raised their glasses, and James and Adria shared a warm look, their connection now almost tangible between them.

As the toasts continued, Adria found herself in a deep scientific debate with an Asgardian elder about energy manipulation, her intellect and wit drawing admiration from everyone around her. James watched, captivated by her ease and confidence, marveling at how she'd transformed since they first met.

Sam leaned over, smirking. "She's impressive. You picked well, James."

He laughed, nodding. "Don't I know it."

Location: The Stargate, Later That Night

As the evening wound down, James and Adria found themselves alone by the Stargate, gazing up at the massive, silent ring that had changed both their lives in ways they could never have imagined.

She leaned against him, a contented sigh escaping her lips. "Today felt like a dream."

James wrapped an arm around her, holding her close. "It's real, Adria. We're here, together. And now... we're unstoppable."

They stood there in silence, their shared bond growing stronger with each passing moment. The quiet hum of the Stargate behind them was a reminder of the journey they'd taken, the battles they'd fought, and the future that lay before them.

After a moment, he pulled back slightly, gazing into her glowing eyes. "There's no one else I'd rather share this life with."

She smiled, her gaze softening. "Nor I, James. You've given me a new beginning, a purpose I never knew I could have. I'm... truly free, for the first time."

He pressed his forehead to hers, the connection between them deepening. "Together, we'll create a new era, a future where both galaxies can thrive."

As they stood there, lost in each other, a warmth filled the air, a quiet promise of everything that was to come. Their love had not only bridged two galaxies—it had brought new hope, new peace, and a new beginning for all who dwelled within them.

Location: Stargate Command, Hallway Outside the Gate Room
Time: Late Night

As they left the Gate Room, they encountered SG-1, who had clearly been waiting for them with a mix of amusement and anticipation.

Jack clapped James on the back. "So, now that you're officially hitched, any plans for a honeymoon? Maybe somewhere that doesn't involve mortal danger?"

James chuckled, glancing at Adria. "Well, we were thinking of taking a little break somewhere peaceful. Maybe explore a few uninhabited worlds... just us."

"Sounds perfect," Sam said, smiling. "You two deserve some peace and quiet."

Teal'c inclined his head, his voice warm. "Your union is a symbol of hope for us all. May your bond bring strength and unity to both galaxies."

As the team exchanged heartfelt congratulations, James felt an overwhelming gratitude for these friends who had become family. Together, they had faced insurmountable odds, and now they stood on the brink of a new future, united by love, friendship, and an unbreakable bond.

With one last look at the Stargate, James took Adria's hand, feeling a profound sense of fulfillment. This was only the beginning of their journey, and together, they would face whatever the universe had in store.

Location: Stargate Command, Gate Room
Time: Following the Ceremony

As the last of the wedding celebrations wound down, a feeling of contentment settled over James and Adria. The hall, once buzzing with activity, now held a quieter, softer energy as close friends lingered, sharing stories and savoring the peace of the evening. James felt an intense satisfaction—a rare and beautiful calm that seemed to echo across the galaxies.

Amid the warmth and laughter, James glanced over at Adria, who was glowing in more ways than one. Her orange-red eyes seemed brighter than ever, almost as though a gentle light shone from behind them, casting her in a soft, radiant glow. She caught his gaze, smiling with a shy warmth that was becoming familiar yet endlessly captivating.

"You're staring," she teased, her eyes twinkling.

"Can you blame me?" he replied, grinning. "I mean, here I am, married to an incredible, slightly glowing being from another galaxy."

She raised an eyebrow, leaning in closer. "Only slightly glowing?"

"Well," he murmured, his voice lowering, "I think your eyes could probably light up the Gate Room on their own right now."

She laughed, a sound that echoed lightly across the quiet room. Her eyes, indeed, held a brightness beyond anything he'd seen before—the Ascendeds' blessing had granted her a new depth of power, one that seemed to heighten her abilities to a level reminiscent of her days as the Orici. But this glow was different; it was warm, gentle, filled with something beautiful rather than intimidating.

He leaned in closer, brushing his thumb over her cheek. "You know, that glow is even more beautiful now because it's yours. It doesn't belong to the Ori, it belongs to you—to us."

Her eyes softened, and she reached up to hold his hand against her cheek. "I never knew I could feel so... free. It's like all of that power is still there, but now I can finally choose how to use it."

"Then let's use it together," he whispered, sealing his words with a kiss.

Location: Stargate Command, Private Quarters
Time: The Next Morning

As the morning sun cast gentle rays through the windows, James and Adria sat across from each other, sipping coffee and sharing a rare moment of stillness. She looked even more radiant in the soft morning light, her glow seemingly intensified by the Ascendeds' blessing. Her eyes now held a steady luminosity, like embers constantly alive with warmth and energy.

"So," James began, grinning over his coffee mug, "have you tried out the new powers yet?"

Adria gave him a playful smirk. "You mean beyond accidentally lighting up the room whenever I look at something too intensely?"

He laughed. "I'll take that as a no."

She leaned back, considering. "To be honest, I'm still adjusting to the feeling. It's strange—it's like having all this potential energy just waiting to be tapped into. And with it, I feel... connected. Not just to you, but to the galaxies. It's like I can feel life itself more vividly."

James's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Well, what better way to test it than with a bit of experimentation?"

Location: SGC Training Facility
Time: Late Morning

SG-1, along with McKay and several curious Asgard, gathered at the SGC's training facility to witness Adria's first official demonstration of her new powers. James stood beside her, grinning as the group exchanged excited whispers.

Jack leaned in toward Sam, arms crossed and a smirk on his face. "So, any bets on what she'll do first? Turn McKay into a glowing ball of energy?"

McKay, overhearing, narrowed his eyes. "I'd rather not be turned into a test subject, thank you very much."

Teal'c inclined his head toward Adria, his voice calm. "We shall see if Adria's powers align with those she once wielded as the Orici."

Adria, overhearing, took a steady breath. She raised her hand and closed her eyes, focusing on the energy within her. Instantly, a soft glow emanated from her palm, intensifying as it took the shape of a small, swirling sphere of light. She opened her eyes, smiling at the effect, then looked over at James.

"Think you can handle this?" she teased, raising an eyebrow.

"Oh, bring it on," he shot back, holding up his own hand.

She sent the sphere of energy gently toward him, and he caught it, absorbing the energy in a smooth flow that caused his own eyes to flash briefly. The exchange between them was seamless, almost instinctual, and everyone watching felt the shared connection that had been solidified by their bond.

Daniel let out a low whistle. "That's... impressive."

Sam stepped forward, her eyes wide with awe. "Adria, have you noticed any limitations on your powers? Are they similar to what you had under the Ori, or have they changed?"

Adria considered, closing her hand to dissipate the energy sphere. "They're similar, but there's something different now. It's like there's no ceiling to what I can achieve—like I can access a level of power I only glimpsed before. It's... more liberating."

Rodney perked up, his eyes alight with intellectual curiosity. "Have you tried manipulating any of the more complex energies, like subspace resonance fields?"

Adria glanced at James, who grinned. "Why not? Let's see if we can make some magic happen."

With a flick of her wrist, she extended her hand toward a nearby object—a containment field designed to hold experimental energy signatures. She concentrated, and the field responded immediately, shifting colors and patterns as she manipulated it. The onlookers gasped as she shifted the energy effortlessly, forming shapes and patterns within the field that danced like starlight.

McKay's mouth dropped open. "Okay, that's... not possible with current tech. Not without a massive power source."

"Maybe not with your current tech, McKay," Jack quipped, patting Rodney on the shoulder. "Looks like you've got some catching up to do."

The Asgard representative, Thor, nodded approvingly. "Adria's capabilities represent an evolution beyond what we have observed among other beings of her kind. It is a testament to her potential."

Adria blushed slightly, a shy smile crossing her face. "Thank you, Thor. I'm just... grateful to have this freedom."

Teal'c raised his hand in a small salute. "Your powers now serve not the Ori but your own will. That is strength."

As they wrapped up the demonstration, James and Adria shared a smile, feeling a new sense of excitement for the future they were now more than ready to face together.

Location: SGC Conference Room
Time: That Afternoon

Following the demonstration, the conference room buzzed with discussions about the impact of James and Adria's bond on the newly unified galaxies. Representatives from both the Milky Way and Ori galaxies gathered, their expressions a mixture of respect and anticipation.

Jack, taking his place at the head of the table, leaned back with a smirk. "Alright, folks, let's get to it. We're here to officially solidify the alliance between Earth, the Ori galaxy, and everyone else who's with us in this new era of galactic peace."

James and Adria sat beside each other, exchanging proud glances as leaders spoke one by one, pledging their loyalty to the cause of peace and unity.

Thor addressed the room with his usual calm authority. "The Asgard fully support this alliance. The efforts of James and Adria have demonstrated the power of cooperation across galaxies. Together, we shall continue to strive for mutual understanding."

Several Jaffa representatives, led by Teal'c, gave a solemn nod. "The Jaffa are honored to stand with our allies in this endeavor," Teal'c stated.

As each ally pledged their support, Adria couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. She had once thought her purpose was tied solely to the Ori, but here she was, a symbol of hope and unity among people who had once been enemies.

Jack, sensing the significance of the moment, leaned over to James with a grin. "You know, you two make a pretty good political power couple."

James chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't go putting any more pressure on us, Jack. We've got enough on our plate as it is."

The room shared a collective laugh, and as the last of the pledges were made, James and Adria exchanged a glance filled with purpose. They had truly become a bridge between worlds, a symbol of everything they had fought for.

Location: Private Balcony, SGC
Time: Sunset

Later that evening, James and Adria found themselves alone on a quiet balcony overlooking the sunset. The golden light bathed them in a warm glow, casting long shadows and filling the air with a serene peace.

Adria leaned against the railing, her eyes reflecting the sunset's hues, their glow soft yet brilliant. "It feels surreal," she murmured. "To think that just a short time ago, I was following a path that seemed so... empty. And now, everything feels so full, so alive."

James wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. "It's because you're finally free to make your own choices. And every choice you make is one that brings hope."

She turned to face him, her eyes filled with gratitude. "You taught me that. You showed me what it means to have faith in something real."

They stood there in silence, the weight of their journey settling over them. After a long pause, James spoke, his voice soft yet filled with resolve. "We're at the beginning of something incredible, Adria. Together, we're going to change everything."

She smiled, leaning into him as the sun dipped below the horizon. "And I wouldn't have it any other way."

As they watched the last rays of daylight disappear, James felt his Gamer System quietly flash a notification in his mind.

Achievement Unlocked: Galactic Peacemaker
Rewards: Permanent energy link with Adria, increased intergalactic influence, and a sense of overwhelming fulfillment.

He smiled to himself, glancing down at Adria. The galaxies had given them their blessing, and now, they stood as one, ready to face whatever lay ahead.