What If? Episode 1 Atlantis Rising

Summary:

What if John left someone behind when he joined the Atlantis Expedition?

Notes:

Rating: T (aka PG-13)
Pairings: John/Sam (for now)
Summary: (AU) What if John left someone behind when he joined the Atlantis Expedition?
Spoilers/Warnings: Rising Part 01 and 02 (SGA) Lockdown (SG-1)

Summer 2004 Ancient Outpost in Antarctica

Major John Sheppard sighed as Air Force General Jack O'Neill stated, "Now if you can't give me a yes by the time we reach McMurdo, I don't even want you." The General leaned back as he silently contemplated the disgraced pilot.

John wondered to himself 'could this day get any worse.' He looked out the chopper's window over the gleaming white snow covered territory as he thought back to the day's events.

Several hours earlier at McMurdo Airbase…

"I can't take this anymore." John growled as he threw a game controller across the room.

"Look John. You knew when we started seeing each other we couldn't tell anyone about us," responded Colonel Samantha Carter. She attempted to appease him as she walked up behind him and placed her hands on his shoulders and nestled against his back. "I don't like this any better than you but we could be court-marshaled. I'm your superior officer for Christ's sake. My career… both our careers would be over."

John turned and hugged her close as he said more calmly, "You're not my superior officer. You just have a higher rank. I don't report to you. I really think we can get through this if we go public. What can they do? Divorce us. It's been two years Samantha."

Sam pushed away from him as she reminded him, "We agreed from the beginning that we wouldn't unless the regs changed." She glared as she paced away from him. "I can't believe you're doing this now. Things have been great so far."

He felt the chasm widen between them as he desperately tried to hold it together. "I know what we agreed to. I can't do it anymore. I want people to know you're my wife. I want to be able to be seen with you in public. Hell, I want to be able to come home to the same house as you at night. Not sneak a visit here and there. How much longer do you really think you can come up with excuses to come to Antarctica. It isn't exactly an air force hot spot." He ran his fingers through his messy black hair in frustration. "I love you Samantha but…" He shook his head in despair.

Sam walked towards him but was pulled back by the ringing of her cell phone. John frowned as she went over to answer it. "Carter." She listened intently to the person on the other end before stating, "I see. I'll be there immediately."

John shook his head negatively as Sam shooed him away. "Dammit," he complained.

Sam glared back at him, "No, Sir. It isn't a problem. I understand. Yes, sir. Goodbye." She hung up the phone as she turned and yelled, "What is the matter with you?"

"Me," he incredulously responded, "What's the matter with you? I'm trying to keep our marriage together and you're making plans to take off… again!"

"Look you knew that I have a very important job and that I have to be prepared to travel within a moment's notice. You've never had a problem with it before," grumbled Sam.

"Maybe I'm wondering where you disappear to all the time. You won't tell me anything. I feel like you're ashamed of me. I've never even met any of your friends but you sure as hell have met most of mine."

She let out a groan filled with guilt as she acknowledge to herself that a certain part of her had deliberately kept John away from her friends, her family and her teammates. "You wanna meet some of my friends. Fine. I'll introduce you when I get back," she conceded. She crossed her fingers behind her back.

John stared at her in silence. The seconds stretched to minutes as they stared at each other across the room. Sam dropped her gaze first as she said, "I've gotta go." She moved towards the bedroom to grab her duffle.

John called after her, "If you love me, you'll stay and fight for us." No reply. He stood there watching the bedroom door for a sign. "Fine," he yelled as he slammed out the front door.

Sam rushed from the bedroom in time to witness the door closing. "John wait…" she called back as she hurried to the front door. She yanked it open but he was gone. She threw the door closed causing it to rattle on its hinges. "Damn," she whispered. She closed her eyes in misery as she prayed out loud, "he'll be here when I get back…he's got to be. This is just a minor set-back." The words sounded hollow even to her own ears.

She turned and picked up her duffle bag from where it had fallen in her rush out of the bedroom. Maybe a week apart would do them good. It should give him a chance to cool off. She slung the bag over her shoulder as she grabbed a pen and paper and jotted a quick note to let him know she would be back in a week. She placed it in front of the coffee pot before going room to room and turning off all the lights. She pulled open the front door but hovered for a moment as she looked around their little abode. It wasn't much but it was the only place she felt at home. She closed the door quietly behind her.

John heard the voice seep into his consciousness as if from far away... "Well? What's it gonna be? You in? They could really use you on this mission," Jack pressed.

John took a deep breath as he said, "Yeah. I'm in. When do we leave?"

"We'll meet up with Weir and the rest of her group in Colorado tomorrow. That'll give you a couple of hours to get your stuff together," Jack paused, "Are you sure about this? It could be one way."

John drawled, "Really…what happened to 'I think people who don't want to go through the Stargate are wacked'? Besides, there isn't anything here that I need. I can buy some stuff in Colorado." He stared sadly off into the distance as he radioed in his approach to the air base.

Jack nodded, "Well good. In that case we'll head out immediately. The expedition is scheduled to make an attempt in seven days. We wouldn't want to miss it."

The major nodded as he touched down the chopper.

Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain Base...

"Major is everything alright?" Dr. Carson Becket asked when he happened upon Sheppard who was sitting silently in the base's mess hall nursing a cup of coffee.

John looked up and replied, "Sure Doc… everything's dandy." He stared back down into his cup not inviting any further conversation.

Carson looked uncertain for a moment before nodding briefly to himself as he sat down. "Major… John you don't have to do this. I know Dr. Weir really wants you along with the ATA gene and everything but it is voluntary."

John glanced up at the doctor before replying, "It's fine Doc. It really is." Carson wasn't sure who he was trying to convince… himself or Carson.

"You don't look fine. Son, I know I've only known you a couple of days but you didn't have the bags under your eyes when we met so something is obviously troubling you. Have you talked with the base psychologist yet? It is a requirement before stepping through the gate for the first time. If they can't help you then I'm available. You can tell me anything." Carson paused, "Maybe if you didn't look like you just lost your best friend I'd be a little less worried."

John ignored the doctor's speech as he latched onto the doc's final words. "Maybe I did just lose my best friend," he muttered before jumping up and exiting the mess.

Carson stared after him with a guilty look on his face.

Asgard ship, the Daniel Jackson, en route for Tok'ra home world

Sam stared out the portal watching the lights flash by signaling hyperspace travel as she thought back over the past few days' events and whether there was anything she could have done different. She sighed deeply when she thought about going 'public' with her marriage. When they got married they were both Majors now she was newly promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and he would be stuck as a Major for possibly the rest of his military career for disobeying orders. No she just couldn't do it. He would have to understand. She would make him understand.

"Samantha Carter. We will be arriving at the Tok'ra homeworld in a few minutes," the Asgard known only as Thor announced.

Sam turned to face him and replied with a wry grin, "Thanks Thor."

"If you don't mind my saying so, you have been unusually quiet on this trip. Is all well Samantha Carter?"

"Everything is fine. Just fine."

Thor disagreed, "It cannot be easy going to see the Tok'ra after the recent death of Jacob Carter."

"No… no it's not," responded Sam as she turned back towards the portal.

Thor's eyes blinked as he studied the Tau'ri female. He finally spoke, "I will inform you when we have arrived."

Sam looked over her shoulder, "Thank you Thor."

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

John aimlessly wandered the hallways of the SGC as he thought about the step he was taking. Would Samantha even miss him? Would she notice he was gone? Would she even care? He looked up to see that he had arrived at the labs. He hoped that Dr. McKay wasn't around since all he wanted was him to hold this, push that, think about…whatever.

He caught sight of Dr. Daniel Jackson leaning over a work bench and decided to investigate. He pushed the door the rest of the way open as he called out, "Dr. Jackson? You busy?"

Daniel looked up startled, "Uh…no not really. Just working up some calculations for Dr. Zelenka. Have you met him yet, Major?"

"No sir. I haven't really met too many other members of the expedition but I figure I'll have plenty of time to get to know everyone once we arrive…if we arrive."

"I hear Dr. Weir has pushed up the schedule to leave in four days. I wish I was going with you," Daniel got a dreamy look in his eye as he continued, "Atlantis. I mean there isn't another find as significant both culturally and scientifically as the great city. The technology alone is unfathomable. I've spent the last few years trying to find it. I know I drove my team crazy…and especially Jack."

"Jack?" questioned John as he glanced casually around the room. He froze when he spotted a picture hanging on the wall. It couldn't be…

"Jack…well you know him as General O'Neill." Daniel paused as he noticed John's attention focused on the far wall. "Major? Are you alright?"

John struggled to get out, "Uhh..yeah..umm who's…?" He points to the picture.

"Oh…that's my team. SG-1."

"Really," responded John. "Who…? When…?" his voice trailed off.

Daniel moved away from the bench to join John in front of the picture. He started pointing out members. "Well there's Mitchell…Colonel Cameron Mitchell, next to him is Jack, who you already know, then myself, Sam Carter…she also a Colonel and Teal'c who is complicated. He's a Jaffa warrior. I don't suppose you know who they are yet. Major? Major?"

John's mind had wandered away while Daniel identified his team members, "Uh when was this taken again?"

Daniel gave him an odd look as he replied, "Well it was Sam's birthday party a couple of months ago. Is everything alright. You look like you've seen a ghost."

Rather than replying John quickly excused himself and rushed out of the room. He didn't stop till he reached his temporary quarters. He slammed the door behind him as he breathed, "Her birthday." He paced back and forth as he worked to calm himself, "She told me we couldn't celebrate together because she was on a mission and that nothing special happened that day anyway." It finally hit John as he realized that Samantha had been living a double life and he didn't know if he even knew who she was anymore… if he ever did.

Tok'ra Homeworld…

Sam looked around her father and Selmak's home. She couldn't believe he was really gone this time. He cheated death just to be killed she thought bitterly. She found a photo album lying across a nearby table. She smiled as she noticed the "touches of Earth" located throughout his home.

She picked up the album and sat down on the loveseat he had put in for Sam when she visited. She flipped open the album and felt the emotion well up inside as she looked at the picture of her parents on their wedding day. God she missed him…missed them both. She continued looking through the pages of scene after scene of her and her family's lives played out in the pages of the album. When she reached the last page she was struck by the thought… she never told her father that she met a wonderful man and married him. John and Jacob Carter would never have any son and father-in-law moments to add to the book.

She slowly closed the book as she silently vowed to make things right. Whatever it took.

Sam was startled by a knock on the door. She wiped the tears from her eyes as she got up and walked to the door still clutching the album to her chest. She opened the door and greeted the Tok'ra representative.

"Hey. Thanks for calling me. I really appreciate the opportunity to go through my dad's things and to attend the Tok'ra ceremony for him and Selmak," comment Sam.

"We thank you for coming Colonel Carter. We were taught compassion from our creator, Egeria. Your father did the Tok'ra a great service by agreeing to be a host to the symbiote, Selmak. We have both suffered great losses with their passing. The pyre is being built at the base of the Stargate as we speak and the ceremony will commence in three days. Until then we welcome you to go through your father's things and take what memento's you wish. We also ask that you select a few items that will be included on the pyre in remembrance of Jacob Carter. One of Selmak's oldest living friends has already selected items to be included to represent the Tok'ra."

Sam sniffed as she replied simply, "Thank you."

The Tok'ra bowed slightly before excusing themselves.

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

John groaned as he rolled over. He wasn't sure if he was ready to face his last days on Earth…literally. He pushed himself to the edge of his military issued bed. He'd slept on rocks that were more comfortable. He pulled out the itinerary that someone had shoved into his hands when he arrived from McMurdo. He glanced through today's list of boring, boring and more boring… oh good he had a physical scheduled in an hour followed by a fun-filled psychiatric evaluation. He tossed the forms on to the nightstand as he prepared to start his day.

Just as John had finished dressing there was a knock on his door. He crossed the room with a frown and pulled open the door. "Oh hey," he greeted Dr. Elizabeth Weir, the expeditions leader.

Elizabeth gave him a warm smile as she responded, "Good morning John. I hope I didn't wake you?"

John ran his right hand through his already messy hair as he stated, "No, I was just getting ready to head out to the mess hall for breakfast. Then it's off to the infirmary."

Elizabeth asked with concern, "Are you sick?"

John replied with forced enthusiasm, "Just routine testing before they let me go through that big round circle you people refer to as a Stargate. Who makes up these names? Absolutely no imagination."

Elizabeth laughed. "Well what would you call it?"

John thought seriously for a moment before he answered, "I think I would have preferred something with the word portal in it… yeah like Space Portal or just The Portal." He gestured for Elizabeth to enter his room.

She nodded her thanks and sat on the bed as she replied, "I think the scientist were more interested in the workings of the Stargate then whether it had a catchy title."

John agreed, "Probably. So, what brings you my way? I know you probably have a million things to do before we depart."

"We haven't had a chance to talk since Antarctica and I was just concerned that you were happy with your decision. Not that I want you to change that decision mind you and would do everything in my power to prevent it…I just wanted to make sure you were settled with it. No last minute afterthoughts."

John scratched the stubble on his chin as he replied, "I've actually had some afterthoughts…second and third thoughts also but I'm still committed to the expedition. You have nothing to worry about."

Elizabeth stood up and headed towards the door, she placed her hand on the knob as she turned towards John. "Good Major. You have no idea how relieved I am to hear that." She paused as she gathered her thoughts, "I… What about family? Do you have anyone? I know this is late in the game but I'm ashamed to admit I didn't really give your circumstances any consideration when I dragged you into the program."

"Well I guess everyone has some type of family but I'm good," John bluffed as he firmly pushed all thoughts of a certain blonde colonel to the back of his mind.

Elizabeth watched him for a moment before she nodded and wished him a good day.

Tok'ra Homeworld…

Sam carefully laid out her father's keepsakes. She looked at what she had selected. A mission badge from NASA symbolizing her father's many years in the Air Force, her parents wedding photo, Sam's bronzed baby booties that she found stashed away in the bedroom, a purple heart and a journal that he kept of his time with the Tok'ra. She hesitated over including the journal since it was a possibly a valuable asset in Earth's continued alliance with the Tok'ra.

"Hmm…maybe I should just hold onto you myself," she muttered to herself. "Dad would want his words immortalized not destroyed."

Sam pulled the journal from the pile and placed it in her travel bag. She wasn't ready to read it yet. As she dropped it into her bag her eyes locked on a photo that she carried with her at all times. It was of her and John on a rare vacation to Hawaii. John loved to surf and she loved to watch him play. She smiled as she recalled how he had dragged her screaming and dripping wet onto his board and taken her for the ride of her life. John was a very physical person and had a love of all kinds of sports and other physical activities. She pulled the photo out and hugged it to her as she went to sit on the love seat.

Sam was still reminiscing about all the good times she and John had when she heard the chime ring signaling a visitor. She quickly rose and returned the photo to her bag and went to see who was visiting. She opened the door and was greeted by a Tok'ra. She appeared to be in her early sixties if you could go by the graying of her hair but with the symbiotes healing abilities the woman could be well over a hundred for all you could tell.

"May I help you?" Sam politely greeted her guest.

In a deep guttural voice, the woman responded, "Good day. We are Lucinda and Liddel. We are a representative of the Council here to advise you on the activities for today. We will be having a commemorative feast in Selmak and his human host's, Jacob Carter, honor."

Sam invited the Tok'ra in. Lucinda smiled as she received control and offered her condolences for the death of Sam's father. "Jacob was a dear friend during his time with us and will be greatly missed." She handed Sam a bag similar to the Earth made garment bags. "This is the outfits that you are required to wear as the bereaved next of kin. The pale green shift is for the feast of honor that will begin in a couple of hours and the brown shift is for the ceremonial fire. The colors signify green for life and festivity and brown for the return to dust. You will also be required to speak at the festivities but if you are too grieved to pen anything yourself then we will assign someone to assist you. I know this is a sorrowful time but must ask if you are prepared to commit your father and Selmak to the next life?"

Sam who had kept silent through the instructions replied in a startled voice, "I…uh…yes. Of course and no I'll prepare my own words. Thank you. Is there anything else I'll need for the gathering this evening."

"You will need to bring the mementos you have gathered to commemorate your father's memory and they will be combined with Selmak's. We will leave you in peace for the duration of the day. An escort will arrive when it is time to gather." Lucinda shifted slightly as her Tok'ra counterpart took control.

Liddel commented, "We are greatly grieved by the loss of our friend and compatriot. Selmak and Jacob represented us with your world and worked hard at keeping lines of communication open. We hope to continue our allegiance with the Tau'ri."

Sam nodded, "Yes of course and thank you for honoring my father with the Tok'ra ceremony. Selmak came to mean a great deal to Dad and he would be pleased that they were resting together eternally."

The Tok'ra bowed slightly in response as they excused themselves.

Sam was again alone. She sighed as she carried the bag to the bedroom. "Damn John, I really wish you were here."

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

John ran his hand across the stubble of his morning beard and decided he had better shave before heading out of his quarters. Once done, he headed to the mess hall for some breakfast.

"Major?" a voice called from behind him.

John turned around and spotted Dr. Rodney McKay hurrying towards him. John grimaced as he politely asked, "Yes Doctor?"

Rodney, having caught up, responded, "Are you heading to breakfast? Good. I'll just tag along. I need to speak with you about some artifacts that we are considering taking with us. Not really sure what they are but I figure I can have you assist me with that. Wonder what's for breakfast? I'm starving."

John stared in stupefaction as Rodney continued to ramble from one subject to the next before bringing his hand up in a stop motion, "Doc take a breath. We're not in any hurry this morning are we? I've got a physical and some tests to take after I eat then I'll stop by your lab."

"Oh, right. Umm, breakfast then," Rodney headed off towards the mess.

John looked after him and muttered, "Yeah…right…breakfast…I hope."

Rodney looked back over his shoulder, "You coming Major? Let's hope they got rid of all those orange rolls and have put out some cinnamon ones. Citrus you know is the root of all true evil. I'm allergic and I swear that someone in the kitchen is deliberately trying to kill me. On O'Neill's orders of course."

John nodded as he trailed behind him as he thought at least with McKay around he wouldn't have to worry about any idle thoughts of Samantha creeping in.

"Here put your hands there…yes…good. Now think…ON."

John glared, "I told you nothing is happening. It isn't anything but a useless hunk of junk."

Rodney arrogantly replied, "You're just not trying hard enough."

To distract McKay from handing him anymore ancient pieces he asked, "So, why does the General hate you."

Rodney looked up and in a crushed voice said hesitantly, "He does? Who told you that? What have you heard?"

John replied exasperated, "You did! You said he was trying to kill you."

"I did?"

John growled, "Yes you."

Rodney responded vaguely, "Oh." He waved his hand in the air and said, "The General is just upset at a disagreement I had with Colonel Carter. Besides he can't still be mad…it was a long time ago. She likes me now."

"Colonel Carter?"

"Samantha Carter…Dr. Sam Carter… Prima-donna of SG-1. Oh you probably haven't met her yet. She's off-world. Something about her father's funeral."

John parroted, "Her father's funeral?"

Rodney replied with irritation, "Are you dense Major. You keep repeating everything I say. Yes, her father's funeral."

John took a deep breath before he said, "Sorry doc. I was trying to figure out why her father's funeral would be off-world."

"Oh, that's right you don't know her. Her father, Jacob Carter, was a host to one of the Tok'ra symbiotes."

Shocked, John exclaimed, "Symbiotes! I thought those were the Goa'ulds!"

"Ahh it's kind of complicated but there are essentially good and bad symbiotes. Bad…Goa'uld, good…Jaffa, Tok'ra and probably some others I haven't heard about." He waved his hands in dismissal of the subject.

John spoke, "Oh, I see."

Showing surprising insight, Rodney asked, "Are you alright Major? You looked a little…I don't know…sad there for a moment."

John was saved from replying when Carson followed by Dr. Carolyn Lam entered the lab. "There you are son. Laddie, I've been looking all over for you. You're late for your physical."

Carolyn seconded, "Major you know you have to pass a physical before we can authorize you to go through the Gate."

John apologized, "Sorry docs. Later McKay." He and the two medical doctors headed out of the labs.

After a barrage of tests and vials of blood, John was finally able to re-dress. He was glad the vampires were through…he hated physicals.

Carson walked over hesitantly; he looked over his shoulder to be sure no one else was around before commenting, "I wanted to apologize about before. I don't know what I said but obviously it touched a nerve. If you want to talk about what is bothering… I can keep things confidential."

John looked momentarily confused before recalling the conversation he and Carson had in the mess hall. He had left the doctor kind of abruptly when memories of Samantha started crowding in on him. "Uh that's okay doc. Momentary weakness. I was just thinking about an old friend."

Carson persisted, "What about family…surely you've got some. A special someone you're leaving behind?"

"Nope…not a soul," stated John emphatically.

"Well I'm leaving my dear mother. I'm going to miss her greatly. We're very close. What about you own parents?" tried Carson.

"Cabbage patch."

"What?" sputtered Carson.

John enunciated, "I'm a cabbage patch kid, doc."

Carson looked confused, "I don't understand."

Both men were so engrossed in their conversation that they didn't see the attractive strawberry-blonde woman coming up to them, "Really Major. I believe I owned one of your siblings as a child."

Startled, John swung around in time to spot Dr. Kate Heightmeyer standing behind him with one eyebrow raised.

John swallowed, "Oh Dr. Heightmeyer…didn't see you standing there. Uh, how long have you been standing there?"

"Long enough," drawled Kate. "I think we need to have a long talk, Major."

Tok'ra Homeworld…

Sam nervously tugged on the borrowed clothing. Pale green was definitely not her color. She was just glad no one else was around to witness her pastel fashion horror. If it weren't for her dad's memory she wouldn't be caught dead in these clothes. She laughed somewhat hysterically at that thought. "Sam get a grip…that council woman will be here soon," she grumbled. "It doesn't matter how you look."

Taking a calming breath, Sam moved toward the counter that held the artifacts to represent her Dad's life. She skimmed her fingers gentle across them as she whispered, "I miss you Dad. I really wish you were here. I need someone to talk to."

She hurriedly wiped the tears from her cheeks when the bell chimed a visitor. She gave a final pep talk, "Pull it together Sam." She tugged again at the shift before welcoming Liddel to her father's home.

Lucinda smiled, "Sam if you have any other questions about what to expect, please do not hesitate to ask." Her voice deepened as the Tok'ra took over, "Yes, Samantha Carter, we are grateful that you have agreed to participate in the Tok'ra's passing on ceremony."

Sam absently replied, "Please call me Sam. Only my dad and husband ever call me Samantha."

The Tok'ra apologized, "I am sorry Colonel Carter. I was unaware that you had taken a mate. Colonel O'Neill did not accompany you?"

Sam was startled when she realized Liddel though Sam and Jack were together, "Colonel O'Neill. God…no. We're just friends and actually he is General O'Neill now."

"Again my sincerest apologies. Jacob had indicated that he thought you and O'Neill were close and I assumed that when you mentioned your mate that he was your chosen companion."

Sam firmly replied, "Ah no...Dad was mistaken. Jack and I were just friends and colleagues. Nothing more. Jack…General O'Neill is already married to his job."

Lucinda responded, "I'm sorry Sam. Your husband could have accompanied you to the Tok'ra's passing ceremonies. Had we know about your circumstances in advance we would have been sure to have made mention of it when we asked you to come."

Sam covered, "Oh he couldn't have come. He's on a mission at the moment."

Lucinda responded, "Is he also with your military forces?"

Sam relieved to be able to admit this if only to a stranger, replied, "Yes…yes he is. He's a pilot."

Cheyenne Mountain Base...

John shifted uncomfortably in the chair he had been waved to. "So Doctor… is this really necessary?"

Kate leaned back with cheerful delight as she responded, "Yes Major it is. Anyone going through that gate has to be mentally sound. Doubly so when they are traveling to another galaxy. Usually the military personnel has months of preparation time before they actually go off-world but seeing as you are late to the game…so to speak, you'll only have a couple of days to get yourself mentally prepared."

John squirmed as he drawled, "Okay. What do I have to do?"

"This isn't a test Major. Just relax. We're just gonna have a nice and friendly chat."

"I'm not a chatty kinda guy," he indolently replied as he crossed his arms in a defensive move.

Kate's smile slipped slightly at the arrogance of the major. She lightly threatened, "I don't think you understand Major. You don't go if I don't say you're okay to go."

John stated with confidence, "I don't believe Dr. Weir shares your sentiments."

Kate persevered, "I see your point. Why don't we have a little question and answer session."

"Sure, why not…give it your best shot."

Kate pulled out a folder with John's name typed neatly along the edges. She flipped it open as she began, "Alright, I see in your records that you lost some team mates in a mission a few years ago. That you had trouble with authority figures. Do you think your past history will affect you in the performance of your duties and responsibilities?"

John simply answered, "No."

Kate waited. John continued to stare at the doctor without expounding further on his response.

Kate took a deep breath before continuing, "I see. What about family? Your file is a little sketchy in that area. I see your father is still alive." She paused a she shuffled through the file. "Ahh…I see you have one brother and an ex-wife." She looked up at John as she asked, "Will you miss them? I'm sure family is important to you as it is to everyone else. "

John released a sigh of relief as he realized that her folder didn't include anything about Samantha, "Sure… some more than others. Next question."

Kate clinched her fist at the major's deliberately brief answers. She narrowed her eyes as she went for the jugular, "Well, well, well…what do we have here?" She gave a shark-like grin as she read the file.

John gave a worried frown at the doctor's tone of voice. 'Uh oh' he thought as he nervously ran his right hand through his already tousled hair.

Tok'ra Homeworld…

Liddel walked up to Sam, "Colonel Carter, I hope you are being made to feel welcome."

Sam nodded as she replied, "Most everyone has been very polite and sympathetic. Selmak was revered by several of the Tok'ra and my father would have been honored by the respect he has been accorded by your council." She hesitated before stating, "I did notice a certain amount of…animosity from some of the younger members of your people towards Selmak."

Lucinda came forward and answered, "Some of the Tok'ra were unhappy with the amount of control Selmak allowed your father. They feel that the Tok'ra symbiote should remain primary at all times with very little thought to the host…it is not a belief shared by the Tok'ra as a whole."

Sam gave a brief half-smile of understanding as she replied, "I see. We have teen-aged issues on Earth as well. I guess you can't please everyone."

Liddel took back control as she answered, "Thank you Colonel for your understanding. We are working hard to re-establish a powerful Tok'ra society that is more tolerant of our human hosts. We are truly grateful to each and everyone for the gift they have given our symbiotes. Jacob was blessed with a kind and compassionate warrior. They were a true blending of spirit and soul."

Sam sadly replied, "Thank you. I'm gonna really miss him….both of them."

Both ladies wandered towards the banquet hall in time to hear the announcement that started the ceremonial feast. "In our time of bereavement we must look to the living for salvation. Our beloved family shall not pass on in vain. Each of our brethren's accomplishments have brought our people closer to unification. We will one day bring down our greatest enemy. In so saying, it is with great honor that we are here today to celebrate the accomplishments of Selmak and his host, Jacob Carter." Guests clapped enthusiastically while a select few allowed their emotions to overcome them.

In the back of the gathering crowd, Sam listened with tears in her eyes as she felt the loss as if it had only just happened. Lucinda placed her hand on Sam's elbow and urged her forward. "Here Sam. These are our seats. I took the liberty of having my seat moved next to you since I didn't believe that you were close to any of the other Tok'ra present today and wouldn't mind."

Sam agreed, "No…thank you." Sam collapsed in the chair grateful for the respite. She wondered what John was doing right now. Was he ferrying more scientists to the ancient outpost? Did he read her note? Had he forgiven her for leaving after their last argument?

"Sam are you okay? You're looking a little peaked right now. We would understand if you were unable to continue with the ceremony tonight."

Sam waved away her concern, "No Lucinda. I'm okay…well as okay as I can expect at any rate. I'm just woolgathering."

"Woolgathering? I am unfamiliar with this term. Is it native to the Tau'ri?"

"What…uh I suppose so…yes. It just means thinking about things that have happened in the past." Wanting to change the subject, Sam glanced around and noticed several of the guests watching her. "I guess everyone here knows that I'm not a member of the Tok'ra."

Liddel gutturally replied, "Yes. But they recognize your honored status as Jacob's daughter and a respected member of the Tau'ri."

Sam commented, "Well….good. Maybe we should get something to eat."

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

John stalked down the corridor, his expression closed. He silently groaned as he thought back to his conversation with Dr. Heightmeyer. He couldn't believe the secrets she had unearthed and then dared to wave them at him like a red cape in front of an enraged bull. He was startled out of his thoughts when he heard his name being called from behind. He turned to see Lieutenant Aidan Ford hurrying toward him.

John pasted on a fake smile as he responded, "Ford?"

Ford bounced, "Major Sheppard. Great to see a familiar face. Have you met our CO yet?"

John replied, "No. Don't believe I've had the pleasure. Dr. Weir said the guy's name is Colonel Marshal Sumner."

Aiden grinned, "I've heard he's a real hard-ass. Can't wait to meet him."

John turned and headed back down the hall towards his quarters, "Ford why in the world would you be excited about meeting a superior officer. Especially one you've heard is a hard-ass."

"Doesn't matter, Sir. We're gonna get to go to another galaxy. Life couldn't be better."

"I don't know…no beer, no football, no Ferris wheels…probably nothin' to fly. Not sounding all that great to me."

"Are you kidding, Sir. Native drinks, alien woman…did you know that Dr. Jackson's wife was from Abydos. That's the first planet the SGC went to." Ford tagged behind the major until they arrived at the major's room.

John didn't attempt to figure out the kid. He was all over the place, "Good for Dr. Jackson." John entered his room and turned to look at Ford, "I'll talk to you later," he closed the door in Aidan's grinning face. John laughed as he pictured the look of shock on the younger man's face. Kinda reminded him of a little brother…well he didn't really have a little brother…just Dave. Now there was a piece of work. Way too serious. John wondered if he should give him a call. He shook his head as he plopped down on his bunk…Nah. Dave wouldn't even notice he was gone.

He wondered what he should do about Dr. Heightmeyer. She couldn't really tell anyone anything because of doctor…psychiatrist confidentially… but still…she could be a huge pain in the behind with that kind of ammo. He leaned back against the headboard determined to catch a few zzz's. Dodging doctors was exhausting work.

Tok'ra homeworld…

Sam closed the door as she yanked off the heels. Thank god that was over. Her feet were killing her. She tossed the shoes across the room. Only two more days to go then she could head back to Earth with a clear head and work on putting her marriage back on an even keel.

She was grateful to the Tok'ra for providing her dad with a new lease on life. She was sure she would have had to witness his slow decent as cancer ate him from the inside out. It was an insidious disease. She knew him well enough to know that he had preferred to go down fighting then to struggle to stave off death at a slow and lingering pace.

His death had given her a new look at her own life. She knew what was important now. She glanced at the photo she had displayed of her and John and smiled. Yeah, she had fixed her priorities.

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

Kate knocked on Dr. Weir's office door and waited for admission.

"Come," Elizabeth called out. She glanced up when the door opened.

Kate moved into the room as she asked, "Elizabeth, do you have a few minutes. I've finished the evaluation on Major Sheppard."

Elizabeth stood as she waved Kate into one of the chairs facing her desk, "Please have a seat Kate. Is there anything I can get you to drink?" She renewed her cup of coffee as Kate politely declined.

Kate took a deep breath as she reported, "I know you really want the Major to go along but I don't think he would be a good addition to the expedition. He has a lot of issues and doesn't seem to want to work them out."

Elizabeth stared at her as she sat back, "I see. What kind of issues?"

Kate leaned forward as she earnestly replied, "When I spoke with the major he stonewalled me about everything, he wasn't communicative and showed no inclination to want to discuss personal matters."

Elizabeth smiled, "That doesn't sound so bad. Maybe he is just a very private person."

Kate frowned, "Given his past history I think it is clear that he is not a team player and would have difficulties following the chain of command."

Elizabeth firmly responded, "Dr. Heightmeyer, I am well aware of his history in Afghanistan. He disobeyed orders to try and save lives. I personally don't consider that to be a problem. I'm aware the military may not see it that way but I want someone who is more concerned for the lives on this expedition then in their own. So unless you tell me he has is a serial killer, rapist or likely to mentally snap when we get to the Pegasus Galaxy, then Major Sheppard goes. We need him. He has a natural affinity with Ancient technology and we are going to a city that was made and lived in by those very people. I cannot afford to let him go just because the military commander may get his ego squished every now and again."

Kate feeling she was losing control of the meeting, snapped, "No doctor I don't. However, I do have this." She opened the folder she brought with her and slid the paper across the desk. "Maybe now you will share my concerns."

Elizabeth snatched up the paper and looked over the contents. Her eyes widened as she asked, "Did you speak to Major Sheppard about this?"

Kate smugly replied, "I tried…he didn't want to discuss it and walked out of our appointment."

Elizabeth commented, "I see. So he didn't give you any indication that this would present a problem for him? He must know that the expedition is under the military supervision of Colonel Sumner."

Kate volleyed insistently, "Oh he knows… he just didn't seem to care…or he is really good at hiding his emotions. This could be a volatile situation and I don't believe we should place Major Sheppard in this kind of position."

Elizabeth stood, "Dr. Heightmeyer…Kate, I will speak to Major Sheppard but I'll warn you right now…if he is okay with this and is still committed to this expedition… he is going. We need him."

"I see," the disgruntled doctor pouted. She also recognized the clear dismissal in Elizabeth's posture.

Elizabeth smiled, "Look at it this way doctor. If he chooses not to go, you will have been right but if he does choose to continue with the expedition…and I hope he does…then you will have him to yourself in another galaxy with no way of getting away from you. After all doctor, that is what I hired you for."

Kate nodded, "Yes you did."

Elizabeth walked her to the door, "Think of it as a challenge."

Jack wandered into Daniel's lab looking for some companionship. With Sam and Teal'c away and the base in an uproar over the Atlantis Expedition, Jack couldn't leave but didn't have a lot to do either. He was bored.

He watched Daniel pour over some ancient tome probably looking for his next clue in his quest to save the universe from itself. Jack shook his head in fond exasperation even as he cleared his throat for attention.

Daniel responded without looking up, "Just a minute Jack."

Jack nodded even though Daniel didn't bother to raise his head. He shrugged as he looked around the room. He prowled through the various objects lying about as he wondered how Daniel found anything in this mess.

Daniel closed the book and eyed Jack, "Because it is my mess."

Jack turned around and with a lifted eyebrow asked, "Reading minds today, are we?"

Daniel chuckled, "No just predictable behavior. What can I do for you? ...wait, let me guess… you're bored."

Jack frowned as he responded, "Are you sure you're not reading minds?"

"No Jack, just an old friend. I don't suppose you've given any further thought to my proposal."

Jack asked, "Proposal…what proposal?"

Daniel sighed in disappointment, "My proposal regarding the Atlantis Expedition."

Jack cheerfully responded, "Nope can't say I have. Wanna get out of here for a few hours? They won't let me go home and there isn't exactly an aging general can do around here."

"You miss Sam don't you?"

Jack laughed, "There is that but you'll do in a pinch. I'm more worried about how she is handling things then actually missing her."

Daniel frowned, "Yeah. Can't be easy." He tapped on his book before he said, "You know you're right…let's go out for a little while. I can certainly use the break." He shoved his book onto a nearby shelf and grabbed his keys.

John barged in, "Hey doc… oh sorry General," he quickly apologized with a wince.

Jack looked at him, "Major, you're still here. Amazing."

Daniel glared at Jack's flippant tone as he asked, "Yes, major what can I do for you."

John looked at his shoes as he responded, "Uh…it's nothing…I can come back later."

Jack growled, "Nonsense. Have you seen any of the Springs yet."

John replied, "Uh…no sir. I've only been on the base the past few days."

Jack rubbed his hands together in glee and then thumped John on the back as he said, "Well you're in for a treat. Danny and I were just about to head out for a night on the town. You're coming along."

John recognized an order when he heard one. "Yes sir." He glanced over to Daniel but didn't say anything.

Daniel interrupted, "I think that is a great idea. I think dinner and a movie is just the thing. Oh by the way, John… Jack's buying."

Jack looked incredulous, "I am? I must have missed that part of the conversation."

John and Daniel laughed as they headed out the door with Jack trailing behind them.

Jack called out, "So what are we gonna see?"

Tok'ra Homeworld…

Sam looked around her dad's personal rooms and felt very alone. She moved towards the kitchenette area and pulled out an old Earth candle and the Tok'ra heating unit. She lit the candle with the Tok'ra unit and set it in a prominent place on the counter as she sighed miserably. She just wanted to go home.

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

Thump, thump, thump… John groaned as he rolled over. Thump, thump, thump… He slowly opened his eyes as he realized the thumping was coming from his door. "Crap," he muttered, "it better not be McKay again." He dragged himself up into a sitting position as he called out, "Just a minute." The thumping stopped. John glanced at his alarm clock...10am. 'Damn', he thought, 'no more going out with the general for a night on the town'. He wrapped the sheet around his waist as he moved towards the door.

He pulled the door opened and growled, "What!"…fully expecting McKay to be on the receiving end.

Elizabeth arched her eyebrow as she took in the major's unkempt appearance. His hair was sticking in every direction and he apparently hadn't shaved. Maybe Kate was right. "Good morning, Major. Is that a new fashion statement for the military?"

John stared in stupefaction for a moment before stammering, "Uh…no. Sorry Dr. Weir. I thought you were someone else." He opened the door wider and invited her inside.

"I see," an amused Elizabeth replied as she entered the major's quarters. She took in the unmade bed and accurately deduced that she had awakened him. "I apologize for waking you. I thought it was sufficiently late in the day that you were up and about."

"Sorry. Was out with General O'Neill and Dr. Jackson pretty late last night and he gave me the morning off. Thought I'd catch a few extra hours sleep." John eyed the folder that Elizabeth was swinging casually in her hand. He recognized it as from Dr. Heightmeyer. "I see the good doctor has already been telling tales."

Elizabeth cleared her throat, "You know as well as I do that you signed a release that due to the uniqueness of the expedition that there is no such thing as confidentially…at least from me. Besides Kate was extremely concerned and I'll admit while I had reviewed some of your previous missions I hadn't really looked at the personal side of things."

John drawled, "So…?"

Elizabeth responded, "So Major, my only concern is whether you can do your job based on what's in this file. Under the circumstances I will understand if you decide to recues yourself from the program but I sincerely hope that you don't. I need you…the expedition needs you. We only have a few members with the ATA gene and none as strong or as natural as your own."

John slumped down on the edge of his bed as he eyed the doctor. She had been very open-minded about his disregard for certain orders and he would hate to disappoint her…but what about Samantha. How would she take his leaving on this mission…possibly one way? He didn't care about Sumner…that was an old wound that had long since scabbed over and he had no intention of re-opening it now or in the future.

He took a deep breath as he replied, "No, it won't be a problem. I know he's effectively the head of the military for the Pegasus Galaxy…at least until we re-establish contact with Earth."

Elizabeth released the breath she didn't know she had been holding, "Well…good." She hesitated as she continued, "Major…John. Are you sure? We are going to attempt to dial the gate tomorrow and Colonel Sumner will be arriving sometime today."

John answered confidently, "Yes, Ma'am. I'm sure."

Elizabeth nodded as she headed back out the room. She halted just as she reached the threshold and turned to face John, "Oh and major it might be in your best interest to pack a comb." With that parting shot she departed; closing the door behind her.

John self-consciously reached up and patted his hair.

Tok'ra Homeworld…

Sam looked at her appearance in the full-length mirror. The brown shift molded to her figure like a second skin. She ran her fingers through her hair as she thought of the upcoming ceremony. It was time to say a final goodbye to her dad.

She looked around the room and spotted an old baseball cap on the floor where it had apparently fallen sometime ago. He dad had been a big fan of the Atlanta Braves back when they were one of the most up and coming teams out there. He had been really upset when some of his favorite team members had been traded or quit the team. She reached over and picked up the cap. She put it on and looked at herself in the mirror. She grinned as she commented, "That's better."

She moved to the living area to wait for Lucinda who would be escorting her to the ceremony. She had already packed her duffle so that she could leave right after the ceremony. With Jacob gone there really was nothing tying her to the planet and she wanted to get home as soon as possible. Even with the Asgard's ship it would be at least two days till she would reach McMurdo.

The door chimed signaling the Tok'ra's arrival. Sam hurried over to the door and greeted Lucinda. "Hey. Thanks for coming. I really appreciate your support."

Lucinda eyed the cap before replying, "It is I who thank you for supporting the Tok'ra. You and your father have made many contributions to our society."

Liddel took over, "I too wish to thank you for coming to participate in the ceremony for Selmak and Jacob. However, I don't want to be rude but could you please remove the hat…it might be considered offensive by the other Tok'ra present for the ceremony."

Lucinda chimed in, "I'm sorry Sam. The Tok'ra have a strict code of appearance for all their ceremonies." She smiled to soften the blow.

Sam nodded as she pulled the cap off, "It's okay. It was my dad's. I just found it while I was packing the rest of his things." To cover her nervousness, Sam pulled her duffle off the floor and set it on the table. She grabbed the picture of her and John off the counter and shoved it and the cap into her duffle.

Sam gave a final look around before saying, "I'm ready."

Lucinda nodded as they headed out the door.

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

Colonel Marshal Sumner arrived at the base already in a thunderous mood. He couldn't believe the fax he received on new military personnel. There had to be a mistake. He thought Sheppard was out of the picture when he made those mistakes in Afghanistan. He didn't think he would every have to actually see that boy again. He was a mistake from the beginning and one he knew he had to live with the rest of his life but he damn sure didn't want to have to see his mistakes day in and day out at a remote outpost in another galaxy. He knew it was unreasonable but eventually John's existence alone had cost him his marriage and the respect of his legitimate children. He would just have to press his case with Weir and O'Neill to get that boy sent back to Antarctica.

Marshal headed down the corridor on level 29 at a brisk pace daring anyone to interrupt his self assigned mission. Soldiers and civilians moved quickly out of his way till he reached his destination. He took a deep breath as he knocked on the door of the offices assigned to General Jack O'Neill.

"Come in," a cranky voice bellowed from inside.

Marshal opened the door and saluted the General who had come to his feet at the Colonel's appearance. "Sumner. Glad you could make it," commented Jack.

"Good to be here Sir. I wanted to speak with you on the new recruits list you sent to me."

"Yes, yes. I'm glad we were able to provide you with the extra contingent of marines you requested. The IOA was reluctant about adding any further manpower till Weir convinced them of the necessity of protecting their interests in an unknown environment," remarked Jack.

Sumner nodded his thanks as he brought up his concerns, "Sir. I appreciate all the support you have provided me with getting a good team of military resources together and for allowing to hand-pick several of those members. Which is why I am so concerned about the last minute addition of Major John Sheppard. I've reviewed his record and frankly I don't need a loose cannon on this mission."

Jack defended his decision, "Well…Sheppard is not negotiable. He has a high ATA gene and my understanding from several of the scientists and doctors…not to mention Weir herself; he is a valuable asset for this mission. Most of his record is actually classified and I've reviewed it also. One incident to save lives of a handful of men shouldn't be the end of his career. Which otherwise, has been spotless."

"General I am aware of the ATA gene issue with this expedition. A few of the carriers are in fact my men…"

Jack interrupted firmly with, "Sheppard is your man also."

Marshal girded his thoughts and forged on, "Now that is where we have the problem. I have every reason to believe…and expect Major Sheppard to disregard my orders whenever it suits him… out of spite even."

Jack looked confused as he replied, "Perhaps you should explain." He gestured the colonel to sit in the chair opposite his own as he moved back around the desk and took a seat.

Marshal sat down and began his tale, "John is my biological son."

Jack looked shocked as he commented, "Really? I'll have to look more carefully at those personnel files in the future."

Marshal continued with a brief nod, "Yes sir. As I was saying Sheppard is my biological son but I don't consider him to be my son. He was a mistake… my wife and I were having problems and well not to excuse myself…I got drunk. Next thing I know I woke up with this waitress. I got out of there fast but a few months later she tracked me down and told me she was pregnant. I had just patched things up with Missy and didn't want anything to jeopardize my marriage. I paid his mother a large sum of money to get lost and stay lost."

Jack asked, "Apparently she didn't stay lost."

"No…no she didn't. Just before the boy was born she contacted me to tell me she was getting married…to Patrick Sheppard. I congratulated her and asked her what she wanted from me. First she asked if I wanted to get to know my son…I told her I didn't have one. Then she asked to send papers authorizing his adoption to her soon to be husband. I readily agreed and made it quite clear I didn't expect to ever hear from her again."

Jack continued to stare at the colonel as he continued his story. "A few months went by when the papers arrived at my home. I was overseas at the time and my wife got them. Needless to say she was livid. By the time I got back, she had packed her belongings and moved her and the girls in with her mother. In my anger, I tore the papers up. Called John's mother and informed her that I would do whatever I could to destroy her. It was not one of my finer moments."

Jack questioned, "What happened? Obviously he uses Sheppard's name and not yours."

Marshal pressed on, "A few months after that, Missy and I were in marriage counseling and she was considering giving our marriage another go. One of the stipulations was that I get rid of the reminder of my infidelity. She couldn't handle him. So this time I contacted Sheppard. He was easy enough to find. He was a major player in the utilities market even then. I set up a meeting and he brought along another set of papers. I signed them and advised him I never wanted to know anything. I thought that would be the end of it."

Jack stapled his fingers as he leaned forward and placed his elbows on his desk, "Marshal you and I have been friends for a long time. I knew that things had been tense with you and Missy but never imagined this. Hell Sara and I used to double date with you and your wife. You were there through Charlie's death. How could you keep this from me?"

"General…Jack. For the most part everything was fine after that meeting. I didn't hear from the Sheppard's again till years later. John was in some kind of accident and they needed genetically compatible donors. I don't really know the details but Sheppard found me and demanded I help his son. At first I refused…but he hammered at me till I agreed. Missy found out and I guess it was the final straw with her. We had been having other problems and this just came at a bad time. She left for good this time. Upshot of it is, I helped him to live and he found out he was adopted. I don't know what all John was told but he didn't want anything to do with me and I don't want anything to do with him. We've run into one another a few times over the years and it always resulted in more bad feelings on both sides."

Jack nodded his understanding, "I see. I'll speak with Weir but in the end it will be her decision."

Marshal released the breath he had been holding throughout the past few days, "Thank you Jack. I appreciate your help. Do you think it will help if I also talk with Weir?"

Jack stood as he responded, "I don't know what Weir knows so let me see what I can do without letting this whole mess out of the bag. Do you think Sheppard would have said anything?"

Marshal also stood as he was clearly being dismissed, "I doubt it. He has no more a fondness of me then I have of him." He headed out the door leaving Jack standing there in contemplative silence.

Tok'ra Homeworld…

The Tok'ra gathered in front of the planet's Stargate. A pyre had been set up within the parameters of the Gate's event horizon.

Several Tok'ra had moved to stand in a semi-circle surrounding the pyre. Jacob and Selmak's bodies had been placed side-by-side on the platform.

Sam had been advised in advance that no one spoke during the ritual of remembrance. As the council member's passed her they bid their heads in respect. She immediately returned the gesture from her position of honor.

A council member called out, "Arik tree ac te kek. Tak mal arik tiak." Sam felt the tears slide down her face as she remembered another ceremony. Teal'c had translated the words as "We do not surrender, even in death. You will not be forgotten." It was a customary prayer of the Tok'ra prior to committing their honored dead into the after burn of the activated Stargate wormhole.

She had presented the artifacts at the festival as requested and they were brought forth now to be placed on the pyre next to Jacob. Another Tok'ra brought fell in line behind the council member and they too brought artifacts that they placed on the pyre beside Selmak. She clasped her hands in front of her in a rare display of nervousness.

The council member stepped back as he waved his hand. The DHD began dialing, Sam wasn't sure if there was a particular sequence they dialed or if it was just random. As the wormhole whooshed the bodies were engulf in the burn. When the pool cleared the pyre and her father and Selmak were gone. No traces remained. Sam stared in shock at the empty space until Lucinda placed a hand on her arm and led her away.

Once they were several yards away, Lucinda turned to Sam and asked, "Sam are you alright?"

"Yeah…yes," she sniffed as she forced back her tears. 'Thank you for asking." She raised her tear-filled eyes to the sky as she continued, "I need to go home now."

Lucinda nodded as she responded carefully, "You know you are welcome to stay on a few days if it will help you. Jacob and Selmak were respected by many of the elder Tok'ra for their dedication to our cause."

Sam replied, "I know. I have things I need to take care of. I'd be honored to visit in the future."

Liddel took over, "We too would be honored by your future visits. Even though we have lost a link between our people, the Tok'ra still considers the Tau'ri to be allies."

Sam simply replied, "Thank you." She took her leave, grabbed her duffle and requested a beam out by the Asgard.

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

"Rodney…No! You cannot pack anymore equipment. We are fully loaded already. The gate will only be open for thirty-eight minutes and we want to make certain we get all the essentials through…not extra coffee pots," grumbled Elizabeth.

"Coffee is essential to the continued stability of myself and all other sane individuals," pressed Rodney.

Elizabeth rolled her eyes as she reasoned, "Rodney, we may not be able to contact Earth again. Further, they may not have coffee in the Pegasus Galaxy. Maybe you should go talk with the botanist, Dr. Katie Brown, about bringing samples of the Arabica Plant or better yet one of the Columbian varieties. Hopefully we will be able to grow some of our own fruits and vegetables and possibly our own coffee."

Rodney looked intrigued by the suggestion, "Katie Brown you say. Thanks." He hurried towards the door and yanked it open while just barely missing the fist that had been raised to knock. Rodney indignantly remarked, "Excuse you. Don't you pay attention? Important man here." He rolled his eyes as he took in the uniform, with a tone laden with disgust he commented, "Military."

"I think you meant excuse you doctor…McKay...right? I was warned about you," growled Sumner.

"Warned? Warned?" Rodney swiveled around, "Elizabeth! Just what has the military been up to? It is bad enough we have to take the Neanderthals with us but really for them to talk about us. That's just too much."

Elizabeth came around the desk to stand between the two men. "Rodney, don't you have somewhere you wanted to go?" She arched her eyebrows imperiously.

Rodney looked blank before blurting, "Katie. Coffee. Right. Yes. If you'll excuse me." He nodded to Elizabeth as he skirted around the Colonel and rushed out the door.

"Dr. Weir, I apologize if I've caused any problems…" Marshal began.

"No…no. Rodney is just being Rodney. He'll grow on you," placated Elizabeth.

"I highly doubt that doctor."

Rather than respond, Elizabeth gestured for the Colonel to enter and shut the door behind him. "I'm glad you were able to make it. I know the expedition came at such short notice."

Marshal nodded, "I'm looking forward to heading out to the Pegasus Galaxy. However, I wanted to discuss a potential issue…." His voice trailed off as he took a seat.

Elizabeth acknowledged, "Major Sheppard."

He commented, "I see. You've talked with General O'Neill then about removing Sheppard from the Atlantis roster?"

Elizabeth looked baffled, "No. No I have not. General O'Neill has given me final authority on all members of the expedition…civilian and military." Elizabeth paused before carefully saying, "Your relationship with Major Sheppard is part of his military personnel file. Birth certificates are public records, Colonel."

"I understand that doctor. That said, I don't feel that he would follow my direction which would cause tension and unrest with the rest of the military personnel. "

Elizabeth smiled as she said with a note of finality, "Well you will be happy to know that John and I have already discussed this and we don't see it as an issue."

The Colonel looked shocked at Elizabeth's support of the young upstart. "You and John discussed it. Dr. Weir I must protest…"

Elizabeth cut him off with a curt. "Your protest has been noted. John…Major Sheppard will be going to Atlantis with us. We need him. He is a natural with Ancient technology. I am assuming he gets the abilities from his mother's side of the family since you yourself tested negative for the ATA."

"I leave genetics to the professionals, Ma'am. Please excuse me… I have a mission to prepare for," snapped Sumner. He rose and headed out the door without further comment.

Elizabeth eyed the door as she wondered if the Colonel had accepted her decree. There really wasn't much he could do when their departure was less than a day away.

Asgard Ship – The Daniel Jackson…

Sam stood staring out the viewport as the blue lines of hyperspace whizzed by. Thor came up behind her and called out, "Colonel Carter?"

Sam jumped in a startled manner as she spun around, "Thor! Sorry, I was daydreaming. The new drive seems to be holding up pretty well. I'm not sure you really needed my input."

Thor responded, "Nevertheless, the Asgard appreciates you taking the time to accompany us on the test flights. We were able to incorporate some of your suggestions from the initial trip into the drives while you were on the planet paying respects to Jacob Carter. I trust you are agreeable with the changes."

Sam nodded, "Yes must smoother ride and if I don't miss my guess…are we going faster than before?"

The Asgard waved his hand towards the portal as he replied, "Yes, as you can see the flashes are quicker than you were used to. We should actually be able to shave at least a day off of your return trip to Earth with the new modifications."

Sam moved over to a nearby console and called up the schematics for the new drive. She pointed at a section on the blue print and asked, "Here. Do you think that we could modify this area to handle smaller ships? We are doing some testing on the old F301s at Area 51 and when I looked at these plans earlier, I thought it would be possible to convert enough power to back the new hyper-drive. It won't be anywhere near as fast as one of your ships but it would be quicker than the standard hyper drive."

Thor's eyes blinked several times as he reviewed the area. "That may be possible with the naquadria. Further simulation tests would have to be run before going into live due to the instability of the power source. Perhaps Jonas Quinn would be available to assist in the testing."

Sam sighed, "I don't know. Jonas may still have his hands full with Kelowna. We were able to stabilize the naquadria in the Prometheus but that was nowhere near as fast or as complicated a design as your new hyper drive engines."

Thor looked at Sam as he replied, "We will assist with the simulations and mock up of a revised blueprint for the F301s after we have finalized the hyper drive within our own ships. As you could tell from our earlier trip…there is room for improvement. Your insights have been invaluable to our scientists."

Sam refuted, "Well… a fresh opinion maybe but I think it is safe to say that your scientists are light years ahead of me."

Thor responded, "You underestimate your abilities Colonel Carter. It is a frequent problem I have noted within your species."

Sam didn't know what to say, "Oh…uh…sorry."

Thor blinked his eyes a few more times in thought before changing the subject, "As we will be arriving ahead of schedule did you still wish to be beamed to the ancient outpost or directly to Stargate Command?"

Sam answered, "Oh...the ancient outpost. I have some personal business to take care of at McMurdo before heading on to Colorado. I'll catch a flight at the air base."

Thor nodded, "I understand. If there is anything further the Asgard can do to assist you further, please let me know."

Sam smiled, "Thanks Thor. That really means a lot." Thor left the area and Sam turned to again stare out at the flashing blue lights as she practiced what she would say to John when she arrived. Maybe she could convince him to compromise. They could tell his parents and brother and maybe even Daniel. Daniel was s safe bet, he might be a little hurt but he would keep it a secret if she asked him…even from Jack. Then in maybe a year or so they could go public.

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

John glared at the ever growing stack of balled up letters. Why couldn't he get this right? Nothing sounded good. How could he explain to Samantha what he was doing without coming across like a complete and unforgivable jerk? He sighed as he crumpled the next sheet of paper and tossed it to join the others across the room. Who was he kidding, she was going to be seriously pissed off when she returned to find him gone and not just out of their apartment but out of the galaxy.

He couldn't really talk with anyone about it because everyone here knew Samantha and that would probably make her even angrier than his leaving on the Atlantis Expedition. He dragged out another sheet and stared at it blankly for a minute before finally just deciding to go with the unvarnished truth. Yeah, maybe if he got back alive she wouldn't kill him. Not immediately anyway.

A short while later, John tossed his pen across the room and grabbed the envelope he had prepared. It was simply addressed to Colonel Samantha Carter – Personal and Confidential. He didn't want anyone getting suspicious should they see it. He quickly shoved the letter along with an updated copy of his will into the envelope and sealed it against any prying eyes. He eyed the mess around the trash can and decided he had better get rid of all the evidence. He had spotted a shredder on the level 26 and that way whoever had the room next would be none the wiser. The question was now how was he gonna get the letter to her. He couldn't very well leave it somewhere… it just wasn't secure. Maybe he could get Dr. Jackson to give it to her. He seemed like a friendly enough guy and he appeared to be close friends with Samantha. With determined thoughts, John grabbed the trash bag of papers and headed down to take care of disposing of the evidence…then he would seek out Daniel.

John exited his quarters and ran smack into Dr. McKay. "Whoa doc. What's your hurry?"

Rodney growled, "I'm on my way to see the botanist. We must have an unlimited supply of coffee. Surely even you flyboys know the value of caffeine. Anyway gotta go." Rodney rushed away never giving John a chance to speak.

John called out behind him, "Sure doc. Good luck with that." No response. John shook his head in disbelief before heading towards the elevators. He pushed the call button and the door opened instantly. He hurried inside and pressed the appropriate button to reach level 26. He looked down at the letter in his hand as the elevator crawled to a stop. He quickly glanced up to see he hadn't reached his floor as the door opened to admit Colonel Sumner.

Sumner glared at him as he entered the elevator. John casually moved over while keeping his eyes straight ahead. Marshal pushed the button for level 25 before turning and snarling, "Let me make myself perfectly clear Major. You are not here by my choice. In fact, the sooner you are gone the better."

John held his tongue until the elevator dinged for level 26. He replied, "Don't worry Colonel. My presence will grow on you."

Sumner replied curtly, "Like fungus. You just remember who's giving you orders."

John grinned indolently as he commented, "That would be Dr. Weir, right?"

Sumner face took on a look of pure rage as John wagged his fingers and said, "Toddles." The elevator closed between the two men.

John lost the grin as soon as Sumner was out of sight. He grumped, "Well John…looks like another great visit with dear old dad." He headed down the corridor and waited till no one was around before shredding the earlier versions of his 'Dear Sam letter'. Mission accomplished he headed back up towards Dr. Jackson's lab.

The door was opened and Jackson was bent over his table pouring over an old book. John knocked on the door jamb before he called, "Dr. Jackson, do you have a minute?"

Daniel glanced up as he waved the major into the room, "Sure what can I do for you?"

John paced around the lab as he murmured, "I was kind of hoping I could get a favor? One of the no questions asked kind?"

Daniel looked intrigued as the usually charming and overconfident man seemed to be having trouble asking for help. "Well I would need to know what kind of favor before I agree to anything?"

John slid over to the lab table and started to pick up various bottles and artifacts to help cover his nervousness. "Well Dr. Jackson…"

Daniel interrupted, "Please call me Daniel. Huh maybe you should put that down. We're not sure what it does and you don't want to accidently activate something that you shouldn't." Daniel reached out his hand as John handed over the artifact.

John decided to get right to the point, "Sorry doc…I mean Daniel. Look it isn't something illegal or immoral or anything. I just want you to deliver a letter but not let anyone else know about it."

Daniel looked confused, "Oh…well okay. I don't see a problem with giving someone a letter. They will know it is from you won't they?"

John answered, "Uh yeah. Signed it and everything."

Daniel questioned, "If you don't mind my asking, why the secrecy."

John squirmed, "I'd really prefer not to talk about it."

Sensing John's hesitancy in trusting him, Daniel nodded, "Alright."

John grinned clearly relieved, "Well good." He headed towards the door but was stopped when Daniel called out.

"Major?"

John turned back to him, "Uh?"

Daniel asked patiently, "Aren't you forgetting something?" John looked blank so Daniel prompted, "The letter? Do you have it?"

John shook his head in dismay, "Oh yeah. Sorry doc. Here it is." He pulled the letter out of his TAC vest and reluctantly handed it to the archeologist.

Daniel looked down and saw Sam's name on the letter, "Sam? What?"

John looked determined as he replied, "No questions remember doc. You did agree."

Daniel wanted to argue but he had agreed so he simply nodded as he said, "I'll make sure she gets it as soon as she gets back."

John remarked, "Thanks Daniel. And don't forget. Tell no one."

Asgard Ship – The Daniel Jackson…

Thor came up behind Sam, "We are nearing the planet. We have scanned the co-ordinates that you have provided. The dwelling is currently occupied by one male human. He appears to be in the smaller sized room… possibly a bathroom or closet."

Sam smiled, "Good he's home. Beam me to the room next to where he is. I don't want him to see me just yet."

Thor blinked, "Very well. Please prepare."

Sam grabbed her duffle and slung it over her shoulder. She nodded to Thor as she answered, "Thank you for the lift Thor. I'm ready."

Thor nodded as he waved he pressed a couple of buttons on his control panel. Sam felt the familiar tingle of the Asgard's beam as she was swept away to McMurdo. Sam opened her eyes to find herself in familiar surroundings. She set her duffle on the floor as she heard the sound of a shower running in the nearby bathroom. She smiled…maybe she would join him. She began shucking her clothes as she headed towards the bathroom.

When she entered the room, she wasn't able to see more than a few inches in front of her due to the amount of steam arising from the shower. She reached over and pulled back the curtain and climbed into the shower only to find a stranger occupying the space. She screamed as she jumped back out and grabbed a towel off the rack. She quickly covered herself as she snapped, "Who the hell are you?"

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

John looked around the crowd gathering in the gate room. Well this is it, he thought, the moment of truth. He glanced around and spotted Sumner arguing with Dr. Beckett. He shook his head as he wondered for the umpteenth time if he really wanted to be stuck in another galaxy with his biological father.

He glanced towards the control room and spotted Jackson, O'Neill, McKay and Weir all milling around above. He spotted Dr. Weir coming forward and began speaking into the microphone. He only paid partial attention as she announced the start of the dialing sequence. He turned to watch the gate with interest as he had never seen it in operation before. Gate travel had been suspended the past few days while McKay and some of the other scientists worked on getting it ready to hook to the ZPM power source.

John shared in the moment of excitement as the gate locked and a large water-like substance flowed out and back into the ring. Dr. Jackson had explained the event horizon and how the gate worked but seeing it was way more awe inspiring then listening to the doc's techno babble. John gripped his P-90 firmly as his eyes were captured by Sumner across the room. He stared back until Sumner backed down and turned to the Gate. His attention then wandered to the roving MALP as it moved through the puddle.

The chatter throughout the room increased as the group waited for the telemetry to come through. Within moments a hush covered the room as Sumner called out orders…apparently they were gonna go. John took a deep breath as he listened to the Colonel.

He watched as Dr. Weir rushed from the control room and after speaking with Sumner, she and the Colonel headed out through the puddle.

John glanced over his shoulder and saw Lieutenant Ford coming up beside him. John gave a genuine smile as he greeted him, "Ford. Good to see a friendly face."

Aiden grinned as he responded, "You too sir. You ready to go."

John thought about it a minute before replying, "Nope…but let's do this anyway." Aiden nodded as the two men headed up the ramp. After Aiden had jumped through…backward of all things, John took a deep breath. He had heard that your life flashed before your eyes just before you died but John swallowed hard as he thought about what he was leaving behind. God, he hoped she would understand and give him a chance if he ever made it back. He released the breath and closed his eyes as he stepped forward into his future.

Daniel glanced for Jack to the gate over and over till until he finally burst, "Jack it's not too late for me to go with them."

Jack turned to look at him and responded with an air of sadness, "Well if you really want…"

Daniel interrupted, "Yes!" He turned and grabbed a duffle he had hidden in the room just in case. He glanced back at Jack and said, "You won't regret this."

Jack responded, "I already do. Just think of what Carter's going to do to me when she gets back."

Daniel grinned, "You'll explain it to her."

Jack said, "Go. You've only got a couple of minutes left."

Daniel nodded as he rushed from the room. He hurried up the ramp stopping momentarily to glance back up at his friend. He waved before turning and stepping though the gate.

Jack looked down as he whispered fondly, "Bye Danny. You owe me a big one."

McMurdo Air Base, Antarctica…

"My, my…I know the Air Force was getting progressive but doesn't this beat anything. I'm Doug, happy to make your acquaintance," he paused as he step out of the shower and reached for one of the other towels on the rack. He ran his eyes up and down Sam's partially concealed form and continued, "And who might you be. I've heard of military groupies but I thought they were usually overseas and not here in Antarctica."

Sam glared as she ground out, "What are you doing here?" She glanced around the bathroom and demanded, "And where are my things?" She froze for a minute and wondered if maybe Thor dropped her off at the wrong location. She looked around and spotted a familiar painting on the bathroom wall. Nope this was the right place.

"Well now beautiful, I don't know about your things but these are my quarters. I just moved in yesterday."

Sam asked confused, "Yesterday?" She walked out the bathroom while keeping her rear covered with the towel. She carefully leaned down and picked up her clothing from the floor, pushed past Doug and slammed the bathroom door in his face. She quickly got dressed and ran some cool water and splashed her face while she thought. Where the hell was John?

'Thump, thump, thump' "Hey lady…you wanna get out of my bathroom? I've got to be on duty in an hour."

Sam stared at the door as she gave herself a little pep talk, "Okay…you can do this. You need to find out what happened to your stuff, who this cretin is and most important where the hell is that… that bastard." She schooled her features into a neutral expression as she calmly opened the door.

Doug grinned, "Well it's about time…," his voice trailed off as he caught sight of the blonde's rank. "Oh shit…I mean ma'am." He immediately saluted and stood at attention.

Sam haughtily remarked, "At ease." She took a deep breath before continuing, "Now let's start this over. First off…who are you?"

Doug clutched the towel as he contemplated just how much trouble was he in. He gulped, "Lieutenant Doug Copeland, Ma'am."

Sam nodded, "Very well Lieutenant. When did you arrive and where is the person that was occupying this residence?"

He quickly replied, "I arrived yesterday and I understand that I am replacing the previous occupant who has been reassigned to another base for some sort of classified mission."

"Classified mission! What classified mission? Never mind you wouldn't know anything anyway," rambled Sam. She started pacing as she contemplated what to do.

"Uh…ma'am?"

Sam stopped and stared as she snapped, "What?"

"Can I be excused? It's kinda chilly in here."

Sam looked at the Lieutenant, "Oh sure. You're dismissed."

He hurried towards the bathroom intent on putting as much distance between the two of them as possible. He cringed when he heard her call out, "Oh wait!"

He carefully turned with a studied air of nonchalance, "Yes, Colonel?"

"Do you know if he packed up or if the stuff that was here was put in storage?"

"I believe everything was stored Ma'am. I think he shipped out almost a week ago with little warning. Had something to do with that science outpost nearby, I think."

Shocked, Sam questioned, "It did?"

Doug shrugged, "Well that's what Captain Johnson indicated. He's the one that handled the packing up of the quarters."

Sam nodded as she clasped her hands together in nervousness.

Doug started back to the bathroom before he suddenly stopped and asked, "Uh, Ma'am?"

Sam asked distracted, "Yes?"

"This isn't gonna get out is it? I mean I just got here and I don't need any kind of problems, Ma'am. And seeing as how the guy that was here was a Major and well the way you were greeting him, I'm pretty sure you don't want to be advertising things either."

Sam nodded, "You got that right. Don't worry Lieutenant… I was never here." She turned and walked out of the apartment. She leaned against the wall outside as she wondered what to do. She pulled out her cell phone and dialed John's number. It was out of service.

Lost City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy…

Dr. Weir gawked when she spotted Daniel. "Dr. Jackson. What? How?"

Daniel grinned, "Jack changed his mind." He looked around in awe at the Ancient City, pleased that his years of research had paid off.

John glanced over and seeing Daniel felt a sudden panic. He rushed over and tapped the archeologist on the shoulder. "Daniel!"

Daniel asked, "Major, how was your first trip through the gate?"

John growled, "Not looking to good with you here."

Daniel asked confused, "Me. What? Oh…oh no. The letter." Daniel patted his pockets and pulled out the letter John had given him to give to Sam. Daniel waved his hand, "Don't worry, I'll take care of it." He rushed back to the gate as a bottle rolled out of the event horizon. Not sparing it a glance, Daniel threw the letter into the puddle just as it closed.

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

Jack asked, "What was that?"

Walter responded, "Unknown, Sir. Some kind of feedback I guess."

Jack replied, "Run a diagnostic, just to be safe."

Lost City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy…

Rodney walked up to Daniel and asked, "Jackson, what are you doing? Interesting way of shredding your mail."

Daniel winced as John glanced between the two doctors. "Shredded? What do you mean shredded McKay?"

Rodney looked over at the major and answered, "Well wormholes are only one way. They are made up essentially of the same material as black holes. So the gate was opened for us to come through here but we couldn't go back through without redialing the Gate back to Earth."

John glared at Daniel as he asked Rodney, "So the letter Dr. Jackson just threw into the Gate didn't go back to Earth?"

Rodney frowned, "No. It was probably destroyed as soon as it touched the event horizon. That's why when a Gate is activated you have to be clear of the horizon so that you don't burn up."

John sarcastically replied, "Thanks Rodney. I'm so glad to hear that."

Daniel looked down as he remarked remorsefully, "Major. I am so…so sorry. I really hope that that letter wasn't extremely important."

John responded, "No. Just screwed my future." He stalked off.

Daniel and Rodney watched the angry young man head down the corridor.

Rodney asked curiously, "What was in the letter?"

Daniel answered, "I'm not sure. But I don't think I will be questioning the major on it anytime soon."

Rodney nodded in agreement before turning to Daniel, "So Jackson, why are you here?"

In flight, heading towards Colorado…

Sam asked, "When do you think we will arrive?"

The pilot turned and replied, "We should reach Peterson within the hour."

Lost City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy…

"Major? John!" called Daniel as he rushed up behind John.

John turned with a scowl, "Yes Dr. Jackson?"

Daniel apologized, "I'm really very, very sorry about that letter. I was just so excited about coming to the lost city of the Ancients. It's been the main focus of my very existence for months…years even, that I just forgot I had it and I wasn't really thinking when I got here…I don't suppose you want to tell me what was in it?" He paused as John stared at him in silence. "Right. I'll take that as a no. Anyway, I wanted to ask you if you think I could come with you to the planet. I may be of some assistance with a first contact situation."

John sensing the doctor's genuine remorse decided to forgive him. After all they might be out here for the rest of their lives and it was beginning to look like that could be coming to an end very soon. "It's okay doc. She would have been mad anyway. I was just hoping the letter might have softened her up while I was gone. As for whether you can go along, that is up to Weir or Sumner. Your best bet would be to appeal to Dr. Weir. Sumner doesn't like scientists."

Daniel confessed, "Yeah, I kind of got that impression. He seemed tense when we were listening to the Ancient hologram. And I thought he was gonna have a cow when Elizabeth told him that you were going to go with him. If you don't mind my asking…especially since you don't want to tell me just how you know Sam…but what exactly is going on between you and Sumner. I haven't seen anyone that mad since Jack forgot to set his Simpson's tape."

John grinned, "Simpson's? Yeah, I can see where the General might be a bit upset about missing an episode." He took a breath before continuing, "Look about Sumner. The truth is gonna come out sooner or later but I'd really appreciate if you kept this to yourself."

Daniel nodded, "Of course. My lips are sealed." He used his fingers to simulate a zipping motion across his lips.

John looked down briefly before glancing up and down the corridors to make sure no one was within hearing distance. "It's part of my personnel file apparently so I'm sure it won't be a big secret around here if we stick around." John again glanced around nervously, "He's my father… not my dad but the sperm donor type father. I'd rather just forget he exists and I'm pretty sure he feels the same for me."

Daniel gulped, "Oh…. I would have never guessed that. I was thinking more like a disgruntled ex-commander not, uh…" His voice trailed off. He cleared his throat before trying again, "John, if there is anything…."

John interrupted, "Stop right there doc. I don't need anyone's sympathy, pity or any other emotional bull. I'm fine. I have a Dad…his name is Patrick Sheppard and while he doesn't exactly like my career choice, he's a good man."

Daniel replied, "Okay."

John nodded, "Thank you. Just remember keep this too yourself. I don't want anyone else to know unless absolutely necessary, especially McKay and Beckett."

"I understand why you don't want Rodney to know, he couldn't keep a secret to save his life…well maybe his life but not anyone else's. But why not Beckett?"

John answered, "Dr. Beckett can't keep a secret much better but actually I don't want him to know because he'll get all emotional and try to 'fix things'. I've get enough of that from Weir and Heightmeyer."

"Major! If you're planning on joining us on the mission then I suggest you get your ass to the Gateroom now or we're leaving you behind," snapped Sumner from the end of the corridor. Rather than wait for a reply, the Colonel turned and walked away.

Daniel stared after him, "I think I see what you mean. I'll go see Elizabeth now."

John nodded, "Good luck doc." He hurried down the corridor.

Daniel called after him, "…and I still want to know what's going on with Sam."

John looked over his shoulder and called back, "Some other time doc. Some other time."

Cheyenne Mountain Base…

Sam stalked down the hallway of Stargate Command. She couldn't believe how her week was ending. She hadn't been able find out anything from McMurdo and when she had Copeland fly her to the Ancient Outpost only a skeleton crew was there…and they knew nothing...well a lot about the expedition but next to nothing about John. Only thing she knew was that Major Sheppard had been at the Outpost the week prior, he had the ATA gene and he had arrived and left with General Jack O'Neill. Sam reached Jack's office and raised her hand to knock… she hesitated momentarily before banging on the door.

"Come in," called Jack.

Sam opened the door and eyed Jack sitting behind the desk. He jumped up to greet her, "Sam, you're back. Come in…come in." He waved her inside.

Sam took a deep breath to center her thoughts before calmly stating, "Thank you, Sir. Um, I just heard about Ancient Outpost but I didn't get a good report."

Jack leaned against the front of his desk as he gripped the edges behind him, "Oh…the expedition. I guess you're wondering how I could possibly authorize it."

Sam commented confused, "Well, uh, no. Daniel's been working on trying to locate Atlantis for a really long time and to think they may have found a possible location….he must be ecstatic."

Jack agreed, "That's one way of putting it." He nervously paced around his desk putting it between him and Carter.

"Anyway I was looking for one of the new recruits…Sheppard. I understand you had him transferred from McMurdo."

Jack stalled, "Uh, Sheppard…yes. What were you looking for him for?"

"Uhh…Dr. Kiwana said he tested positive for the ATA gene and I wanted to discuss having him test some objects we recently obtained from planet PX7-4M5," covered Sam. "Sooo…where is he?"

Clearly relieved to get off the subject of Daniel, Jack replied, "He went with the expedition to check out the possible Atlantis site."

Sam looked disappointed as she answered, "Oh…okay. Then I'll just go see if Daniel needs any help till Sheppard gets back." She pointed in the general direction of Daniel's lab. "When are they due back?"

Jack set down as he waved Carter to a seat. "Carter…Sam. I think you'd better sit down."

Sam looked concerned at Jack's serious expression. "What's going on?"

Jack steepled his hands as he bluntly answered, "Daniel isn't here. He went with the Atlantis expedition."

Sam nodded, "Okay?" She dragged the word out more as a question then a comment.

Jack looked indecisive for a minute before continuing, "Daniel located Atlantis on another planet. Not under the ocean as was previously hypothesized."

No longer in a rush, Sam answered as she took a seat, "That makes sense. It would be why Atlantis was so hard to find. Which planet?"

"We don't know the name of the planet since it wasn't one we've been to before. In fact it was the first eight symbol address we have ever discovered."

Sam exclaimed, "Eight! Wow…that's wow."

Jack grunted unenthusiastically, "Yeah wow."

Sam asked, "What's wrong? Daniel hypothesized the city could be a treasure trove of ancient technology. Possibly even weapons…that ought to get the old blood pumping."

"Weapons are good…." he paused, "if they weren't in another galaxy."

Sam leaned back, "Another galaxy? Which one?"

Jack sighed, "Pegasus."

Sam sputtered, "But that's…"

Jack cut her off, "I know. I know. But Elizabeth was insistent that they go and well McKay was able to figure out how to hook up the Zee Pee whatsit to our Gate and off they went."

Sam's eyebrows raised, "The ZPM…a Zero Point Module? That would give off tremendous power…and they needed it to dial an eight symbol address? It was only partially powered. How are they going to get back?"

Jack dreaded this part, "They aren't."

Lost City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy…

"No way. He's a civilian. He isn't going on this mission," snapped Sumner.

Elizabeth rubbed her hands in a circular motion alongside her head. "Colonel, I understand your concerns about Dr. Jackson. However, he has had a lot of experience in first contact situations and frankly we need to convince whatever people we meet to assist us during this crisis."

The Colonel continued to shake his head negatively, "Look I'm putting up with Sheppard but I'm not gonna be responsible for a civilian in an unknown situation. Sheppard is at least military but Jackson is an archeologist not a soldier."

Elizabeth stood up and glared, "He may be a civilian but Daniel Jackson has saved our planet time and again. I want you to take him along."

"I don't have time to argue with you Dr. Weir…"

Elizabeth cut him off, "Good. You and your team including Sheppard and Jackson leave in under ten minutes. Time is of the essence Colonel and I don't think I need to remind you of Dr. McKay's findings."

Sumner snarled, "I still recommend…"

Elizabeth again interrupted, "Your recommendations are noted Colonel. I'm sure General O'Neill made it clear that I am in charge of this expedition…not the military. You now have nine minutes."

Sumner gave one final glare before stomping out of the room in defeat.

Elizabeth sank back into her chair as she wondered if every day in Pegasus was going to be like pulling teeth. She didn't understand how Jack could have possibly thought her and Sumner would get along. They were complete opposites.

Cheyenne Mountain Base, Milky Way Galaxy…

Sam stared incredulously, "Excuse me?"

Jack replied, "Oh…didn't I mention that before. They had to use up the power for a one way ticket. McKay and Weir seemed to think they would be able to find another power source on the other side and were…hopeful…that they would be able to reestablish contact from their end fairly soon."

Sam slumped down as she thought about John, "I can't believe you let him go. I can't believe you just…" her voice trailed off.

Thinking she was talking about Daniel, Jack commiserated, "Well he really, really wanted to go. He has been working towards this for a for a long, long time. And he got this really puppy dog look."

Sam looked confused, "What?"

Jack continued, "You know how Daniel can be…"

Sam interrupted, "Daniel? Oh yeah…Daniel. Right."

Jack asked, "Who did you think I was talking about?"

Sam covered, "Daniel… I just lost my head there for a minute. I mean I leave for a week and I come back and everything is wrong. Of course Daniel…who else would I be talking about….McKay?"

Jack grinned, "Funny. I know you're probably pretty upset right now what with your dad and Daniel…and McKay but this could net us a virtual treasure trove in ancient tech and weapons."

Sam frowned, "At what cost, sir?" She stood up and exited the room not waiting for a reply.

Jack called back, "Sam! Sam! Colonel!" She ignored him as she continued to stalk down the corridor towards the labs.

When she reached Daniel's lab, she glanced around taking note of his personal items strewn about. She felt tears come to her eyes as she swore, "I'm gonna find away to get you both back. " She knew that if they had found a ZPM when they got to Atlantis that McKay had already had more than enough time to hook it up and contacted the SGC before now. ..so she had to assume that they must be stranded. She wouldn't even consider that anything bad had happened to them… they were just out of reach for now.

So engrossed in her thoughts she didn't hear the door open. Jack walked up behind her and placed a hand on her shoulder. She jumped. "Jack!" She moved away from him as she casually wiped her eyes before she turned to face him.

Jack looked sympathetic as he spoke, "Sam, I know you're upset about the expedition but I didn't have a valid reason to stop them and the IOA was backing Weir. They want that technology."

Sam nodded her understanding, "Yes sir. If you don't mind, I wanna check out the ZPM and see if there is anything I can do to charge it." She started pacing as she tried to work up possible solutions. "You know Thor is working on a new hyper-drive system… maybe you could convince him to let us use it somehow."

Jack looked amazed, "He is? That would be great but don't you think you're getting a little ahead of yourself. They've only been gone a few hours. We need to give them time to do their job. I don't think we need to ride in on our white horses just yet." He continued to track her with his eyes.

Sam continued to ignore him as she paced, "Maybe there is something in Antarctica that could help. I've got to get back there and analyze all the data they've accumulated." She looked up and spotted Jack staring at her, "What? Did you say something?"

Jack's eyebrows shot up as he replied, "Me…apparently not." He hesitated before continuing, "Carter while I hate to end this fascinating conversation we're having, I can't let you go to Antarctica right now."

Sam stubbornly countered, "Why not?"

Jack sighed, "Because the Russians are coming."

Lost City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy…

John helped Daniel suit up. He tossed him a pair of night goggles. "Come on Doc. We gotta hurry. Sumner's not exactly happy with either of us going along."

Daniel agreed, "Yeah, I got that impression. I know why he doesn't want you along but what's his problem with me?"

John guessed, "I don't think he cares for civilians in general especially in what he thinks of as a military situation. You're a liability Doc."

Daniel disagreed, "I can handle myself. I've done countess first contacts. I even lived with the people of Abydos for several months before we had to return to Earth."

John asked as he checked his P-90, "Abydos isn't that an ancient civilization in Upper Egypt?"

Daniel was startled, "Yes it is. I didn't know you were familiar with ancient history major." He accepted the goggles and placed them on his head.

John absently replied, "I minored in history." With a final click of his gun he looked up and said, "Let's go." He headed for the gate room with Daniel in tow.

Cheyenne Mountain Base, Milky Way Galaxy…

"Teal'c it's good to have you back," greeted Sam.

"Indeed," bowed Teal'c.

Sam hesitantly asked, "Did you get my message?"

Teal'c responded, "I did. I am most aggrieved to hear of the loss of Daniel Jackson. I concur also with your recommendation of contacting the Kelownans."

Sam grinned, "Don't count Daniel out yet. I have every intention of either establishing contact with our people in Pegasus or build a better power source so we can get there by ship in a reasonable length of time. That's also where the Kelownans come in. I want Jonas back serving on SG-1." Teal'c and Sam exited the Gateroom while discussing the possibility of getting Jonas to come back to the SGC.

"Has General O'Neill already approved the addition to the team?" asked Teal'c.

Sam evaded, "Well… I wanted to feel Jonas out before we involved the General. Besides, Jack is tied up with a Russian delegation right now. Can you believe they want us to accept another one of the people here at the SGC? This time they are insisting on SG-1. With Jack out and Daniel in another galaxy Jonas will help defray the Russian…I hope."

Teal'c eyebrows rose at what Sam was not saying, "You wish to pursue Jonas without informing the General. Is that wise?"

Sam replied, "I just don't want to count our chickens before they're hatched."

"Another Tau'ri colloquium. Interesting but I cannot fathom what hatching chickens has to do with either Jonas or Daniel," deadpanned Teal'c.

Sam explained, "I just don't want to count on Jonas rejoining us before we feel him out. He was dead set on helping to rebuild his society and while they've made great strides he may not be ready to leave Langara."

"I understand."

Sam smiled, "Good. It really is great to have you back."

Athosian Village, Pegasus Galaxy…

"Major!" Sumner called.

John turned to look at the Colonel, "Yes sir."

Sumner glanced around to ensure they were alone. He looked down for a minute before telling him, "As you are aware I didn't want you along on this or any other mission. But…"

John interrupted sarcastically, "Yeah, you've always made your feelings complete clear…Sir."

Sumner took a deep breath before continuing, "Maybe if you'd shut up for five seconds and hear me out… you might be surprised."

John snapped, "Fine."

The Colonel stared at him a moment before speaking, "As I was saying before being rudely interrupted…" John snorted. Sumner's mouth tightened in anger, "I wanted to say you did a good job back there in the tent with that Athosian woman, Teyla. You showed surprising skill in charming that woman. They may not be any immediate help but you were right we may need them in the future."

John was shocked. He stammered, "Thank you, Sir."

Sumner nodded before ordering, "Get back in there and keep an eye on the situation. I want you and Jackson to feel out the villagers while a group of us head over to the ruins on the other side of the lake. Keep your eyes and ears open." He abruptly turned and walked away.

John stared after him in confusion until Sumner was out of sight. He turned back towards the Athosian village with a thoughtful look in his eyes.

Lost City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy…

"Major, what happened?" Elizabeth demanded.

John looked at her as he replied, "We were attacked. Some creatures the villagers called the Wraith. They grabbed several of our people as well as the Athosians. I was able to evade them along with Ford, Jackson and a handful others."

Elizabeth groaned as she realized they had already lost a significant number of people and they had only been in the Pegasus Galaxy a couple of days. "Do we know anything?"

John answered, "Only what stories the villagers have told us. McKay is still working on finding what information we can about the Gate address. Jackson and Heightmeyer are keeping the Athosian's calm. Their leader was one of the people captured. We've got to get them back."

Elizabeth questioned, "John are you doing this for our people or to impress the Colonel. I just want to be sure your motives are clear and that you don't have a hidden agenda. The man is your father…like it or not. I know things are tense between you two but I don't want you doing this just to assuage any guilt you may be feeling right now."

John answered as honestly as he could, "I don't know what I feel for the old man right now. I do feel guilty but not because he's my father. I feel guilty that my CO and others were captured and I wasn't. I can't help them escape but I can damn sure help rescue them."

Elizabeth admonished, "John..."

John growled, "We don't leave people behind."

A short while later...

Armed with a plan, John headed to see Elizabeth. He caught up with her in her new office just past the Control Room.

John politely knocked to get her attention even though the door was already opened, "Dr. Weir?"

Elizabeth looked up with a resigned look on her face, "John, what have you got?"

John answered, "McKay's narrowed down the address but the gate is in space."

Elizabeth felt a sense of relief but was immediately ashamed of her unconscious reaction. "John, I'm so sorry..."

John quickly interrupted, "We've been through this already. You said if I found a way you'd let me take a squad of men to rescue our people."

Elizabeth responded, "I know. But we really have no way of rescuing those people if the gate is in space. On a planet...maybe."

John drawled, "Then I guess it's a good thing those Ancient's left us a fleet of space ships."

Elizabeth looked startled, "Space ships? Really?"

John replied, "Really...really. They fly and everything." He grinned like a kid in a candy store with a pocket full of money.

Elizabeth grinned, "Then I guess I have no choice but to give you a go. Do you want to take Daniel with you?"

John declined, "No, I think he would be more useful here by helping to keep the Athosian's in line. Besides he seemed a little sweet on their leader."

Elizabeth was surprised, "Really? You didn't mention their leader was a woman."

John pretended, "I didn't? Are you sure? I could've sworn I mentioned Teyla."

"No, I'm sure I would have remembered."

Cheyenne Mountain Base, Milky Way Galaxy…

"Jonas, thank you for coming," gushed Sam.

Jonas Quinn looked around the familiar walls of the Tau'ri's Gateroom. "It's good to be back. I was a little surprised by the invitation. With Dr. Jackson's return I was kinda under the impression I was a forth wheel."

Sam corrected, "Third."

Jonas looked momentarily confused till Sam expanded, "Third wheel...not forth wheel."

"Oh... sorry. I'll work on my slang while I'm here. You always had such a fascinating and diverse language. Again, I was surprised that Dr. Jackson took a mission to another galaxy without the rest of SG-1."

Sam eyes widened, "Right. Anyway it is good that you were able to come. I was concerned that you wouldn't be able to with the Kelownan's still working on getting Langara back into shape."

Jonas replied, "My people have reached a non-critical stage of rebuilding and can afford my absence for a time."

Sam got right down to business, "I want to get started right away on establishing contact with the Atlantis Expedition. Preferably face to face but at minimum some sort of communications while we work towards a hyper drive that will enable us to travel to Pegasus in a relatively short period of time."

"Of course. I understand that General O'Neill was going to work on getting the Asgard to assist with the new drives they were testing and in the meantime he has indicated in his communiqué that he wanted SG-1 to operate 'business as usual'. Has his orders changed that the Atlantis mission is to take precedence over the standard planetary exploration?" questioned Jonas.

Sam grimaced, "No...no...no change. I'm just anxious about the expedition. We don't know what is going on and I'm..." She paused a moment before continuing, "...worried."

"Yes, you must be worried about Daniel. But he really seems like he can handle himself in any given situation."

"Right...Daniel."

Wraith Facility, Pegasus Galaxy…

"Sir, the men are standing by to create a diversion on your command," reported Ford.

"Thank you Lieutenant," replied Sheppard as he continued creeping along the corridor. He looked around with an air of disgust. The place was musty and he wouldn't be surprised if the building wasn't alive and just waiting to attack him and his men. He quietly ordered, "Maintain radio silence."

Rather than answer, Ford nodded his understanding as he crept behind the Major.

John glanced back and commented in a low tone of voice, "Is it just me or is there a suspicious lack of activity here?"

Ford answered nervously, "Pretty suspicious Sir. Do you think they are alright?"

John remarked, "I hope so Lieutenant. I hope so." They reached a fork in the corridor. John glanced down each hall and said, "Innie, meanie, miny, moe...let's go this way." He gestured for Ford and the marines bringing up the rear to follow him down the path on the right.

Ford looked shocked, "Sir, we don't know this is the right direction..."

John nodded, "No we don't." He shrugged, "We don't know if the other one is the correct way either."

Ford nodded, "Yes Sir."

City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy…

"Have we heard anything?" questioned Elizabeth.

Dr. Peter Grodin, the British physicist, answered, "Not yet."

Rodney chimed in from a nearby console, "Elizabeth, look at this." He pointed to his monitor, "We were lucky...very lucky that the shield's collapse triggered the city to rise to the surface. Had the shield not failed then the city would have continued to flood in multiple sections and the city may not have been able to move with the weight of the ocean holding it down."

Elizabeth went pale, "My God. We would have all drowned."

Rodney nodded in agreement. "We've been able to get some more of the Ancient systems converted over to out power generators and I think we will be able to track our team...to some degree anyway."

Elizabeth responded, "Good. Keep working on it. Let me know the minute we hear from them or you are able to get the tracking system operational." Elizabeth headed back up to her office. She already had reports to write. Leadership was not always what it was cracked up to be.

Wraith Facility, Pegasus Galaxy…

The team came upon their missing teammates and the Athosians. John looked around and spotted the security chief, Bates. "Bates where are Teyla and Sumner?"

Bates looked over to the Major and sneered, "Colonel Sumner and the alien woman were separated from us right after we got here. Those things must have recognized her and Sumner told them he was our leader."

John groaned, "Great!" He turned to Ford, "Lieutenant escort these people back to the ship. I'm going after Sumner and Teyla."

Ford protested, "Sir, you can't do it alone."

John sighed, "I don't have time to argue."

Ford stared him down.

John growled, "Fine!" He pointed to one of the marines that they brought with them, "You...uh Brown. Escort these people while Ford and I go after the rest."

Brown nodded acknowledgment and began leading the prisoners to safety.

John glared back at Ford, "How come you don't obey like that?"

Ford grinned insolently, "I don't know Sir. Maybe I've spent too much time with you."

John rolled his eyes, "Let's go."

Cheyenne Mountain Base...

Sam groaned, "I hate to admit it but I'll be glad to get out of here tonight. I'm going into the Springs for the night. Any of you guys wanna come?" She looked over her shoulder to Jack, Jonas and Teal'c.

Jack was the first to respond, "As much as I always enjoy an invitation to spend some time in your lovely company... No. I'm going fishing. Between Anubis and Colonel Vaselov, I think we could all use a couple of days stand-down. Jonas? Teal'c what about you?"

Jonas jumped in, "I think I'll join Sam in the city. I've kind of missed it while I was home."

Teal'c intoned, "Indeed. However, I must decline. I feel a need to meditate."

Sam nodded, "Well Jonas...it looks like just the two of us. I'll go get ready and meet you back here in an hour."

"Sure. I'll be waiting." The guys watch as Sam headed down the hallway towards the women's community showers.

Jack waited till Sam was out of sight before turning to Jonas, "See if you can get her to talk. There's something bothering her but she won't tell me anything. It has got to be more than Daniel. I've never seen her work so hard to find a solution to a problem when there were no lives on the line. Sure the expedition is out of contact but we have no reason to believe that anything bad is happening."

Teal'c refuted, "Perhaps she is unduly upset about Daniel because of the recent bereavement ceremony she attended on the Tok'ra homeworld."

Jack wasn't convinced, "Maybe. But I don't think so."

Jonas assured them both with a grin, "I'll see what I can do to cheer her up and find out what is going on. You can count on me."

Jack sighed, "That's what I'm worried about." He walked away without saying more leaving Jonas to stare after him as the grin left his face. Jonas turned to Teal'c with a confused look. Teal'c shrugged then he too left.

Wraith Facility, Pegasus Galaxy...

Sumner's cold wrinkled body dropped to floor as the female Wraith released him from her grip. "How many years must I take from you before you tell us what I wish to know?" She knelt down in front of his prone body before continuing, "Or shall I take all of hers?" She tilted her head in Teyla's direction.

The Colonel growled, "Go to hell."

The female snarled back, "Earth first."

Teyla protested, "Tell them nothing. She is one of their Queen's. She will kill us anyway when we are no longer useful."

The Queen screamed her outrage as she rose and moved towards Teyla, who was being held between two Wraith Drones. She backhanded Teyla for her insolence as she snapped, "So eager to die. The other Athosian begged for his life."

Teyla ground out, "I beg for nothing from such a monster."

The Queen remarked, "We'll see." She pulled back her arm to feed when she heard a commotion behind her. The Queen swung around and spotted her guards collapsing to the floor as Sheppard and Ford opened fire with their P-90 rifles. She screamed in rage as she rushed them.

John grabbed one of the drones weapons which had a long serrated knife attached. He quickly slammed the bayonet-like weapon into the Queen's stomach. He commented, "That had to hurt."

The Queen pulled back her hand to attack Sheppard but he was quicker, he yanked the blade upward, splitting the Wraith's internal organs in two. He grunted, "That had to kill you."

Ford opened fire on the drones holding Teyla.

Teyla immediately joined the fray to help dispatch the remaining warriors.

The Queen groaned out her last breath, "You don't know what you have done. We are merely the caretakers for those that sleep. When I die, the others will wake...all of them."

John glanced to the life signs detector they had found on the jumper earlier. He noticed dots after dot appearing on the screen all around them. "Damn." He, Ford and Teyla look up and see the Wraith coming awake above them. He ordered, "Let's get out of here."

Ford attempted to assist Teyla who told him, "I am fine, what about my people?."

John answered, "They're all fine. Let's go." He reached down to pick up Sumner who had lost consciousness sometime during the skirmish. He threw the older man over his shoulder in a fireman's carry.

Ford asked, "Is he gonna be okay?"

Teyla gave him a pitying look as John replied, "I don't know."

Colorado Springs, Colorado...

Jonas and Sam exited the movie theater with smiles on their faces.

"Wow that was great. Did those people actually exist here on Earth?" asked Jonas.

"Before I'd have told you they were myths and legends. King Arthur, Merlin, Lancelot and all the other Knights of the Round table..."

Jonas interrupted, "And Guinevere! You can't forget Guinevere. She was hot!"

Sam grinned at his enthusiasm, "...and Guinevere. But now I don't know... with what we've seen of the Goa'uld, the Asgard and the Ancients alone suggest that those tales may be as real as Atlantis is."

Jonas cautiously asked, "About Atlantis..." His voice trailed off.

Sam cautioned, "Not here. I've booked a couple of rooms for the night. We'll talk there."

City of Atlantis, Pegasus Galaxy...

John leaned against the railing as he thought back to the circumstances that brought him to Atlantis. He really missed Samantha but he really did make a difference here. He wondered if he would have come to Atlantis if they hadn't had that fight... he would like to think he would but he would have probably caved in to his wife's demands of secrecy and would still be at her beck and call in Antarctica. It was probably just as well he hadn't seen her before he had agreed to the expedition. Besides he would have probably still been in the dark about her position with the Stargate Program.

Elizabeth came up behind him, "Penny for your thoughts Major."

John grinned wryly, "Probably not worth that much, Dr. Weir."

Elizabeth returned his grin, "Please call me Elizabeth. You did good out there."

John grimaced, "Tell that to Sumner, or the Athosian's that died...not to mention the rest of the galaxy."

Elizabeth replied with a raised eyebrow, "Why don't I tell that to the men and women that you rescued from a Wraith encampment when they did not believe anyone would dare come to help them?"

Teyla came up behind him with Daniel in tow, "Or how about Jinto who is no longer an orphan even when he thought his only living family to have perished at the hands of the Wraith. I and my people owe you and yours a great debt of gratitude."

Daniel popped in with, "I'm certainly feeling pretty grateful right now Major." He looked over at Teyla, "For a lot of reasons."

TBC