omniDANIEListic FanFiction
Disclaimer: The characters portrayed within this story belong to the guys that own the Rights to Stargate SG1 so MGM, Gekko and unfortunately obvioues SciFi too...but I have a friend making beautiful SG1-
clones and sometimes I let them out to explore our universe!
Those aformentioned characters inspire a lot of people watching and adoring Stargate SG1 so be indulgent. Many thanks to Gekko and MGM, Daniel Jackson, Jack O'Neill, Sam Carter and Teal'c plus their respective actors doing such a great performance!!
But I am tempted to cast an evil spell on SciFi.
Summary: see author's notes. Tag to "The Shroud"
Timeline: season 10
spoilers: The Shroud, s 10
Rating:Some Danny-whumping involved, of cos, angst, language, violence too, but nothing too serious so far
Size:
Author's Notes: Okay - Deep Breath - Here goes.
This is the first story that I've written that I've actually put up for public humiliation Wink (CP&UP being a
collaboration with Em, and on temporary hold till she's back in action, and just a bit of fun.)
I apprectiate that This may be every one's cup of tea. It focuses very much so on Jack and Daniel,
I just so love their friendship. But don't worry guys, the rest of our heroes aren't wallpapered.
It takes place after the events of The Shroud, and is kind of AU in that I ignore the events of the
into in their efforts to prevent to Ori invasion.
Where I refer to what transpired bewteen the time that he was captured by Adria and being De-Priorized,
it is all a lot darker than what we got on-screen. Nothing gratuitous or graphic though.
I hope you enjoy, I'm open to advice and critism, but please remember, as I rule I write for my own pleasure,
and I'm extremely nervous about posting this. Oh, and BTW, it hasn't been beta'd, so please don't hesitate to
pick me up on typos, bad grammar, etc. And please, it is fiction, so my somewhat strange imagination is at work
here
# Novel: Consequences Part 5 #
by Delta666
They landed heavily on the ground. Jack still hanging on to Daniel, for some reason he was terrified that They landed heavily on the ground. Jack still hanging on to Daniel, for some reason he was terrified that if he let go Daniel would simply vanish. As the brilliant white light receded, he blinked a few times to clear his vision. He glanced at Daniel who was barely conscious and then quickly took stock of his surroundings. The first thing he saw was that they were in some kind of large room. The beauty of the place escaping him as he saw a dark haired woman dressed entirely in white peering down at them.
“What, who, where…?” He began, but the woman ignored him and leaned down and placed a hand on Daniel’s forehead. Her expression changed to one of concern.
“This could be a problem.” She said and summoned two men who Jack hadn’t previously noticed.
“Hey, where are they taking him?” He demanded as they carried his stricken friend away.
The woman stared at Jack, her intelligent brown eyes seeming to bore in to his soul.
“Daniel was supposed to come alone, we were not expecting another.” She stated looking less than happy at the idea of Jack’s presence. Jack in turn alternated his gaze between her and the corridor down which the men had taken Daniel. He waited for her to explain further, but grew fed up when she merely continued to regard him silently. He made an exasperated sound and then spoke.
“Well, I’m here, and I want to know where they are taking him!” He demanded, his eyes darting over her shoulder again. She seemed to relent slightly.
“He is very sick, they are taking him to our medical facility, do not be concerned. His survival is imperative; he will be well cared for, as for you. You do not belong here.” She looked a little uncertain.
“Hey, I’m not going anywhere. I know he’s sick. First I want to see for myself that he’s gonna be okay, and then, I want you to tell me what the hell this is all about!”
She regarded him for a few moments more and then seemed to make a decision.
“Very well, come with me.” She didn’t wait for a response but merely headed off in the direction that Daniel had been taken. Jack paused for a moment, shrugged and then followed. He figured he’d get his answers sooner or later.
They went across the large airy room and down a corridor to a set of rooms that did indeed look like a small, very hi-tech infirmary. He spotted Daniel lying on a bed with a man, presumably some kind of physician, attending to him.
“What is his condition?” The woman asked. The man turned towards her and straightened up, he gave Jack a curious stare but returned his attention to the woman.
“He will recover; he needs to sleep for a while. We have started to eradicate the fever and infection that was making him sick, the wound will heal naturally, he merely needs rest and to regain strength.”
Jack went and hovered protectively over him. He had to agree that Daniel did look one hell of a lot better, and it was clear that he was merely sleeping peacefully. He felt a weight had been lifted from him, he hadn’t realized quite how worried about his trouble-magnet friend till now. Ten years and he still couldn’t help it. He turned to the woman.
“Okay, I can see that Daniel’s okay, for now, so, are you, or someone going to fill me in, because, let me tell you, I am not a happy camper at the moment, and we have friends who will be looking for us.”
The woman did the stare thing again and then seemed to accept that Jack was here and there was not a lot she could do about it.
“Very well, come with me. I will explain as best I can.”
Again she didn’t wait for a response from him but merely swept from the pristine white room. With a quick glance at Daniel, Jack sighed and followed her. Despite the way they had gotten here, he seemed to sense that they were in no imminent danger. She led him in to what looked like some kind of salon – for want of a better word and took a seat indicating that he should sit too. He glanced down at his less than clean clothing but she nodded that he should sit anyway.
“You are in the City of Ylaaria, these are the Central Chambers where the leaders resided.” She began.
“Acht.” He held up a hand and stopped her mid-sentence.
“We were in that city and it was nothing but a bunch of ruins.”
“Yes, you are correct. And so it will be, but we are in it’s past, before the shields failed and the City was exposed to the elements, and outsiders.”
Jack almost groaned. Had she just said what he’d thought she’d said?
“Just, run that by me again would you?” Praying he’d heard her wrong, or misunderstood.
“The energy field that you encountered, and that brought you and Daniel here was also a means to bring you back to a time when the City was still intact. Except, it was only Daniel who was supposed to have come.” She added, an anxious expression flitting across her face.
“Okay, I’ll take your word for it for now, but why do you want Daniel to be here? And, why is it such a problem that I am as well?”
Again she stared at him. He felt uncomfortable under her penetrating gaze.
“Because, he holds the key to defeating the Ori. They are still a grave threat, and Daniel is the only one who can complete what he and Merlin started.” She stated and Jack felt that weight descend upon him once more.
“No! Daniel’s done enough! He built the weapon and sent it through the ‘Supergate’. The Ori are destroyed, they have to be. Besides, it was Merlin, and he’s gone now, and, how do you know all this anyway?” He demanded, maybe this was a trick, and this woman was Adria, because, of course, he’d never seen her, and there was doubt as to whether she was dead or alive.
“The weapon did not work, there was a component missing, and…” She paused and the continued, but Jack wanted to know what she had been about to say.
“And…?” he interrupted before she continued.
“It is nothing that concerns you. We need Daniel to assist it building another weapon, and to take it back to destroy the Ori once and for all. We have tried without him, but each attempt was a failure. We had hoped to do this without having to……bring him here, but we now have now choice.”
Jack sighed. Always Daniel…why not Carter, or Mitchell, or anyone else, why always Daniel?
“We managed to create the field, we knew Daniel would be drawn to it. What we did not expect was that he would not come alone.”
“Well, I’m here, and as I said, I’m not going anywhere without him.”
“I think Daniel might have something to say about that when he awakens.” She said in a way that sent a little chill through him.
“We’ll see.” Was all he could say. “However, just one question, who the hell are you and how do you know so much about Daniel, Merlin and all that other stuff.”
The woman sighed and look resigned.
“I am Ganos Lal, you may have heard of me referred to as Morgan Le Fay.”
“Okay, the Ascended Ancient from Atlantis.” Jack stated flatly. He just knew THEY have been involved somewhere along the line.
She gave the tiniest of smiles. “That is correct.”
“Okay, so, let me get something straight here. You and whoever else is here are ascended beings, the glowing, the kooky powers, the whole nine-yards, right? And, you clearly want the Ori destroyed like the rest of us do.” He looked at her but continued before she could speak. “So… why don’t you and you’re buddies just zap ‘em with those crazy weird powers of yours?”
She then did something that Jack didn’t expect. She reached out and touched his hand. He was surprised to find that her hand was warm and firm, then he remembered she touched Daniel, of course he hadn’t known he she was then, so he’d thought nothing of it. But now………
“Those of here, now had to take the decision to descend and take human form. It was the only way, that, and hiding here in the past, while the city was still shielded, to keep from the others what we are doing.”
“Ok-ay, that I can understand.” Jack said warily. “But, according to Daniel, Merlin could still use, I mean, he transferred his powers into Daniel..which meant Daniel could use his powers, and Daniel is ‘only a human’.” He emphasized the last three words with air quotes.
“Merlin was still Alterran, he was able to transfer his abilities to Daniel. We have had to assume Human form, we therefore have no greater powers than you. All we have managed to retain is knowledge. Some of us, a few have remained on the ascended plane to assist us when the time comes, but they must keep their intentions away from the others. As far as the others are concerned, all we ‘troublemakers’ were cast out. We let them think that is what they had done, and it was the only way we could continue, and with Daniel and Merlin’s help finally defeat the Ori.”
“Ah, well, that’s where your little master plan might come a little unstuck ‘cos Merlin’s gone.” Jack leaned back and gave her a triumphant smile, if Daniel couldn’t help them, then he was of no use to them, therefore, they could be returned to their own place, time, whatever.
“We are hoping that is indeed not the case. There is too much at stake.” She looked worried.
“Well, according to Daniel, when he had the fight with Adria, that was the last of Merlin. So, perhaps you could just send us back and let us carry on trying to fight these guys the way we know best.”
Morgan was very worried by what this man had just told her. If Merlin had indeed ceased to be, then all could be lost. He had been the only one of the Ancients to have researched and created a weapon capable of destroying the Ori. She had been the only one with whom he’d entrusted this information. But she didn’t have his knowledge and skills.
“Perhaps he left the knowledge within Daniel.” She said hopefully. Jack groaned. He didn’t want Daniel to continue to shoulder so much responsibility. He had already done enough, and was paying a heavy price.
“When Daniel awakens, I will speak with him, I will know whether he has retained Merlin’s knowledge, it is possible, and it if so, then it may be buried deep in his subconscious. You must understand, and, if you are close to Daniel, I believe you will.” She gave him that look again, the one that made him feel as if she could see right in to his mind. “Daniel himself will wish to complete his task, Merlin saw in him true conviction, if he hadn’t, he would never have permitted his consciousness to have been downloaded in to him. We are also aware that Daniel had met with and spoken to the Doci of the Ori, and that he and the woman, Vala, were inhabiting the bodies of those two people in the Ori Galaxy at the time. They saw, and experienced first-hand what the Ori are capable of, and only Daniel knows how to finally stop them.”
Jack stared at Morgan for several long moments before he spoke.
“If you know how dangerous these Ori are, why did none of you step in before? Surely something as big as this warrants what you regard as interference, this isn’t just one or two planets at stake, or even just one galaxy, they intend to reach out and take over – perhaps the entire Universe, and, it’s your buddies under threat as well.”
Morgan allowed a small smile.
“You speak well, Jack O’Neill, but, it is not myself, or any of us currently residing in Ylaaria that you need to convince, apart from the few who are with us and remained ascended to assist us when the time comes. The others are convinced that the Ori will fail, they are too – arrogant, they believe that as ascended beings, they are untouchable.”
“No wonder Daniel couldn’t wait to ‘descend’ back to human form. He’d told me, and I believed him. But, hearing it from you, one of them.” He looked upwards. “Makes me soo glad he didn’t stay ‘up there’.”
This time Morgan’s smile was reflective.
“He hated it, hated that he could see you and his other friends in trouble and yet was unable to help. Hated seeing Anubis growing in power, knowing he had the means to, if not stop him, at least slow him down. The occasions he did get involved he was punished severely for. The final step, when he attempted to stop Anubis destroying Abdydos was when Oma De Sala had no choice but to step in. Had she not, the Others would have, and Daniel would have been exiled both from the Ascended plain and this.”
Jack felt almost sick at that thought. He recalled how Carter had told him about Orlin, condemned to live a solitary existence for having given the inhabitants of Velona the means to build a weapon. Daniel had done more than that, and on more than one occasion.
“Soo, what is it that Daniel can do that you guys can’t?” He asked of her.
“It is complicated. In this city is the means to construct another weapon, the only other place in the galaxy apart from Merlin’s cave, and of course, Adria took that. It is our fear that she may have learned how to use it herself and be constructing a weapon of her own that can destroy the ascended beings in this galaxy.”
“Okay, now, correct me if I’m wrong here. I thought that ascended beings weren’t restricted to just one galaxy. That they existed in this – plane – that’s all seeing, all dancing, the whole nine-yards. So, how come these Ori don’t just zap you guys, or you guys zap them? Why do you need the help of us mere mortals?” And, how come this weapon won’t destroy your guys, I thought it was designed to zap ascended beings period?”
“As I said, Jack.” She looked at him as waiting for him to give her the okay to use his name so familiarly. He nodded his assent. “It is complex. We and the Ori, although initially ascended by the same means, actually exist on separate plains. Part of the reason we have been so reluctant to engage them directly is because, we have no idea as to how such a confrontation will affect the fabric of the Universe, which, I can see in your expression, you think sounds overly dramatic, but this is bigger than you could possibly imagine.” This time there was an earnest look in her eyes. Whether she was right or wrong, Jack decided, she believed it.
“It would be best I think, if we continued this discussion when Daniel has awakened. You look tired Jack, and perhaps hungry?”
He realised he was famished, exhausted, and, a shower and change of clothes wouldn’t exactly go amiss.
“Come, I will show to some rooms where you may refresh yourself, I will have some garments brought to you and we will partake of a meal, where you will be introduced to the rest of us who have chosen this path.”
She took him to what in any hotel he knew of would be a luxury suite. He figured that whoever these Ylaaran’s had been, they sure believed in all the comforts of life. The bath was huge and deep, the water hot and plentiful. By the time he’d luxuriated for almost thirty minutes, he felt physically, if not mentally better. He found some clean clothes had been left laid out on the bed and by the time he’d dressed was ready to eat just about everything these people could provide.
Just as he was deciding whether to go exploring, no one had told him he couldn’t, Morgan Le Fay entered his room.
“Ahh, come, join us for a meal, now that we are corporeal beings, we must eat just as you do, and, I did promise that you could meet the other members of our small group.”
In that way of hers she headed off leaving Jack to follow in her wake. Much as he tended to distrust these ‘ascended’ beings, and by proxy, those who had descended, there was something about this woman, a serenity, dignity, and he suspected, a strong will, as well as the fact that Daniel had told him she’d been willing to give him the information for finding the sangraal before those ubiquitous ‘others’ grabbed her away, made him have faith that her intentions were good.
“Jack, please, take a seat. I will introduce you once we are all here.” Morgan told him as she took her own seat. They were joined by three men and two women. Jack couldn’t deny that he’d been hoping that maybe Skaara might have been among these people, but they were all strangers to him.
Introductions were made as they helped themselves to the food that was already set on the table. Jack got their names, memorised them and to whom they belonged. He realised as the meal progressed that they were all truly committed to helping in the fight against the Ori. They had risked everything to leave their ascended state behind them, and not only re-take their original form, but actually take on human form, thus loosing any advantages they may have had. It was a measure of their desperation that they’d had to choose this path.
After the meal fatigue overcame him and after being assured that Daniel was sleeping peacefully, he went back to his room.
~~~~
He awoke sensing that he was not alone, and when he peered through one eye he was surprised at who his visitor was. Unable to prevent it, he grinned widely.
“Daniel. What are you………….?”
“Hey Jack.” Daniel smiled back at him looking as fit and well as he’d ever seen him. He sat up as Daniel perched on the edge of his bed.
“I take it you aren’t here against doctors orders?” Jack teased, his relief lightening his burden for the moment.
“Yeah, I’ve been declared completely recovered and even the wound has almost healed.” He was a little embarrassed that he’d been so desperate to get to the city, that he’d dug the locater chip from his arm, and foolishly neglected cleaning it properly, which had resulted in infection and his fever.
“Wow, that was fast, soo, you seen Morgan yet?”
A shadow crossed Daniel’s face and Jack felt that weight descend upon him again.
“She explained why I’m – we’re here, you shouldn’t have tried to stop me Jack, you weren’t meant to….”
“Yadda yadda yadda, yeah I know, it was only supposed to have been you, but, you know me Danny, can’t resist a bit of nannying where you’re concerned.”
Daniel sighed, but, he couldn’t help feeling glad that Jack was here with him, even though his presence was going to make things a little tricky.
“Well, you’re here, and they can’t risk sending you back until I’ve built another weapon. The second they deactivate the ‘time-field’ the Ascended Ancients will be able to detect them and stop us. We can’t let that happen, I screwed up once, I can’t afford to screw up this time.”
“Danny, you did what was asked of you, and more, and god knows, you deserve a break. Why can’t one of them do it? Why you?” Jack was growing angry at the unfairness of this situation.
Daniel regarded Jack. When he told him what it was going to take to succeed this time, the sparks were going to fly big time. He was going to have to hold back some of the details, for, when Jack found out, he just knew he would not like it one little bit.
“Ummm, it’s complicated Jack. It’s got something to do with Merlin having downloaded his consciousness and knowledge in to my head.” He paused and traced an invisible pattern on Jack’s bedcovering. Jack could sense that there was a lot that Daniel was holding back.
“Daniel?” He prompted after a stretch of silence.
“I’m trying to get my own head around all this Jack. Morgan explained to me about the ‘back in time’ thing. Sam would have a field day.” He smiled and Jack returned it with one of his own.
“Daniel, her head would have exploded by now. And what about you, I mean, this place must be an archaeologist’s dream huh? An Ancient city, intact, fully functional, you gonna take a look around?”
“I don’t know, I mean, of course, I’d love to, but, I think time – pardon the pun, isn’t on our side. There’s only so long that they can maintain the field. I have to build the weapon, there’s one of Merlin’s head-grabbers in the lab. But, the second the field collapses, we’ll all be thrown back to our own time, the others will know and try to stop us. Why, I have no idea. They are as much at risk as the rest of us, more in fact. The Ori want to destroy the Ancients. The Ancients, well specifically, the others, are too arrogant to believe that can happen. If the Ori do attack, they will be forced to defend themselves, and, the repercussions of that for the rest of the Universe are to huge to bear thinking about. Their battle will affect every one, no matter what plane or dimension they inhabit.” Daniel had risen and was pacing around the room now, his frustration at the ‘others’ getting to him, he was gesturing with his arms like he used to. Jack was taken back to the days when he used to do that all the ti me. Except, back then, it was usually him that Daniel’s frustration was aimed at. A small smile touched his face as he remembered those early days, when all they had to worry about were the Goa’uld. Nasty, arrogant, badly dressed, overblown, cliché spouting snakeheads. But, at least they played in the same sandbox. These damned Ascended beings could actually bring about the annihilation of everything.
“Okay Danny, I get the point, and I’m on your side, so, take a breath and stop imitating a windmill will ya, you’re wearing me out.”
Daniel stopped in his tracks, stared at Jack for a moment, and, much to Jack’s relief visibly relaxed and retook his perch on the edge of his bed.
“So, you’ve got to build another one of those weapons. The means to do it is here, once it’s ready what? We go back to ‘our time’ get it through to the Ori galaxy like before, and volia! End of another bunch of false gods. Maybe we should consider slaying false gods for a living.” Jack quipped and was rewarded with one of Daniel’s really rare smiles, the kind that made his whole face light up.
“Thought we already did that.” Daniel retorted lightly, relieved that, at least for the moment, Jack seemed satisfied with his explanation so far.
“Okay, so, do it then. Build it, we’ll get it to the Ori galaxy, err, you’re not gonna have to go prior on us again are you?”
“No Jack, Morgan explained that those who have remained ascended, one of which is Skaara, by the way.” He revealed with a grin. “Can help us with that.”
“Sweet, d’ya think we’ll get a chance to say hi to him?”
“If all goes according to plan, I don’t see why not.” Daniel said thoughtfully.
“Anyone else we know…” Jack asked as he twirled a hand around indicating ‘above’
“Most of the Abydonians. In fact, according to Morgan, it was they who finally convinced her and the few that are here, to be a little more proactive. Of course, Oma would have been right here with us too, but, she’s still kind of got her hands full.” There was a wistful note in Daniel’s voice. There was a distinct possibility that Oma could be destroyed when the weapon was deployed. The only consolation being, that so would Anubis.
“It’s a real mess.” Jack said softly.
“Uh-huh.” Daniel agreed, and they sat in silence for a little while. A lot of good ‘beings’ were potentially going to loose their – lives – for want of a better word. But in the immortal words of a certain Vulcan from the old TV show. ‘The Needs of the Many outweigh the Needs of the Few, or the One’ he finished sadly.
“Soo, these descended guys, they eat breakfast?” Jack threw back the covers and headed for the bathroom. Daniel smiled. He would be eternally grateful for Jack always being – Jack.
“Sure, as soon as you’re ready we’ll go and grab some. They’ve even got something that passes for decent coffee.” He said raising his voice so Jack could hear him. In the bathroom, Jack smiled. If there was one constant in the Universe, it was Daniel and his coffee addiction.
After eating. Morgan, who seemed far more at ease with the idea that Jack was here, or maybe it was just there was nothing she could do about it for now, accompanied them to the lab. It was in a chamber deep in the bowels of the city. Morgan had told Daniel that Merlin had used this time shift method before he’d developed the phase shifting device. Apparently, the tine shift device was a lot more tricky to operate, and used a great deal of power compared to the phase shifting device.
Jack wandered around the cluttered room picking up random objects and replacing them when he realised he had no idea what they were, he perched on a stool and juggled a couple of stones that he’d found. Daniel felt a stab of nostalgia. How many times over the years had Jack done exactly the same thing in his old office back at the SGC. Usually when the older man was bored, and when he was trying to work on some terribly vital translation. He really missed those days. Which then led him to wonder how Sam, Teal’c, Vala and Mitchell were faring. That led to thoughts of Woolsey and the IOA. No doubt they were trying to hunt him down, and Jack too now. He figured that they were both now branded as some kind of galactic renegades. He hoped the rest of SG-1 were okay. Had Mitchell realised what he was getting himself in to, would he have been so keen to ‘get the band back together’ had he had the slightest idea? Probably, he thought ruefully. The guy was downright irrepressible. And Vala? He sighed. She’d better be keeping herself out of trouble. Teal’c would keep an eye one her, of that he was certain.
“What you up to Daniel?” He jumped, he’d been so deep in thought he hadn’t realised Jack was standing so close he was almost touching him.
“Oh, err, nothing, well, not nothing actually, just wondering about the others, Sam, Teal’c, Mitchell, Vala. I hope Woolsey isn’t giving them a hard time.”
“They’ll be fine Danny. Vala’ll tie him in knots and Carter’ll techobabble him in to a coma.” Jack stared at the headgrabber. Similar, yet different to the two he’d stuck his head in.
“Soo, that’s the gizmo then, you just…” He made a motion with his hands.
“Yes Jack, I, just think what needs to be made, and presto, it materialises over there.” He indicated a round table like structure.
“Soo, you control it, it won’t go sticking a bunch of stuff in your head like it did me?”
“Well, it shouldn’t. I mean, it did when Merlin transferred his consciousness in to me, but that was different. He knew he was dying, and I knew it was going to happen. But no, all I’m going to do this time is manufacture the components and get the thing built.”
Jack felt that he should have found Daniel’s explanation reassuring, but, those little hairs on the back of his neck were at attention. What was Daniel NOT telling him?
“Once it’s assembled. One of these guys will activate the ship…”
“Ship?” Jack cut in.
“Yes Jack. The ship. How else are we going to get to the Supergate?” Daniel’s tone had taken on a note of exaggerated patience.
“Anything else you’d care to share now Daniel, please, don’t go all Tok’ra on me, that I won’t put up with.”
“That’s it Jack, there’s a ship that will get m..us to the ‘gate, that’s when Skaara and the rest of them will help open the ‘gate to the Ori galaxy, I’ll add the final component to weapon and poof, no more Ori.”
“Poof! Daniel?” Jack quipped, and frowned at the lack of response, plus, he wasn’t sure he liked the way Daniel had said that last bit a little too quickly, and he hadn’t missed that fact that Daniel had started to say me! “You mean that red stone thing?” He decided to ask instead. The big questions that were bugging him, he’d leave till later.
“I’d better get started.” Daniel hedged. “You might as well go for a walk or something, you’ll only be bored in about five seconds flat and distract me.”
Jack planted his butt firmly on the stool.
“No way Danny-Boy. I wanna see you in action.”
Daniel sighed in what he hoped would pass for a long suffering manner rather than the wobbly nervous sigh he felt like emitting. The last time he’d done this it had been an incredible drain on him both physically and mentally. Not so much so after he’d been ‘priorised’. But, he didn’t really want Jack fussing over him like he was wont to do.
“Jack, would you not like to see the ship?” Morgan stepped in. She’d been so quiet up till now that Jack had more or less forgotten she was there.
“Jack. Please. I’ll be fine, not like I haven’t done this…” He gestured in the general direction of the head grabber…”Before.”
“Come, this would be a good time for me to show how the vessel is operated.” Morgan insisted and revealed a small device that she pulled out from a concealed pocket in her gown. “Daniel has one of these, a communications device. If he requires aid, he will summons us.”
Jack looked pointedly at Daniel.
“I promise Jack, now go play with the toys.” Daniel added what he hoped was a reassuring smile. He realised he also needed to speak to Morgan again, alone as soon as the opportunity arose.
“Need I remind you Jack, that time is of the essence? Every moment we delay drains the time shift device further. The weapon must be completed before the power is completely depleted.
With a parting glance at Daniel he followed Morgan, but, that niggling feeling of dread wouldn’t allow itself to be quelled, no matter how hard he tried.
Daniel breathed a sigh of relief at Jack’s departure. Not that he didn’t value the fact that Jack was there, despite the fact he wasn’t supposed to be, but, he needed no distractions while he got on with his task. He took a deep breath and stepped toward the device. It reacted immediately, as if sensing his presence, and he placed his head inside it and realised as soon as he did, that what he’d been beginning to suspect, was in fact real. Merlin hadn’t left him completely. He, or at least some part of his consciousness was still within him, and the device was enabling him to escape the deep recess of his mind in to which he’d retreated after the battle with Adria.
Jack positively drooled when he saw the ship. It was a beaut! Sleek, sinuous almost, even though, as Carter had patiently explained to him once when he’d complained at the ‘lumpiness’ of the Prometheus, ships that flew through space didn’t need to be aerodynamic since there was no resistance. Inside it reminded him a little of the insides of the ‘Puddle Jumpers’ but a lot more sophisticated. He couldn’t resist sliding in to the pilots seat and run his hands over the smooth control panel. At his touch things started to happen and he heard a gasp of surprise from the women standing behind him.
“Jack, this should not be happening.” She remarked, clearly puzzled. Jack felt smug for the first time since he’d been dragged in to this place.
It’s a gift.” He said glibly enjoying the fact that he’d disturbed Morgan Le Fay’s impenetrable air of calm.
“You must possess the gene.”
“Yousureyoubetcha! The Asgard kinda thought I was a bit special you know.” He just couldn’t help gloating a little. He found himself liking this descended Ancient woman, but, she did have a bit of a superior air about her.
“Which means, you could fly this ship, perhaps your presence here was not just a mere accident.” She mused out loud.
“Thought you guys already had a pilot lined up?” He was eyeing up an interesting looking symbol, something told him that was the doohickey that would open the Supergate.
“We had several volunteers, however, I think you appreciate that, whoever undertakes this task will risk incurring the wrath of the others. As I explained, even though we have taken human form, once the time shift device is deactivated, they will be able to monitor our actions. We knew that when we made the decision, that we are all risking punishment. However, as you are not of the Ascended Ancients, they may not bother to observe your actions.”
“Okay, I’ll do it.” As far as Jack was concerned, it was a given. If Daniel was going to engage in something reckless, then who better to watch his six. Besides, he couldn’t sit somewhere helplessly twiddling his thumbs while Daniel went off and did whatever it was he was going to do, and deep down, Jack knew that this time was going to be a whole lot different to his last attempt.
“Jack, I believe that this endeavour may have a significant chance of succeeding with your assistance.”
“Danny’s not gonna like it though.” He responded reflectively.
“Perhaps not, but he does also realise the gravity of the situation Jack.” She favoured this intriguing man with an assessing look. “Daniel trusts you, perhaps more than anyone, he will most likely resist the notion of you flying him to the Ori Stargate, but, he will also understand that it will decrease the likelihood of the others stepping in.”
Jack figured she was right. But Daniel could be one stubborn SOB. And for all the accusations that he could be overprotective of the younger man, Daniel could be just as bad when it came to those he cared about. Jack also figured that the level of Daniel’s resistance would be a good indication of exactly how risky this mission really was going to be.
Morgan was now convinced that Jack’s presence was not the accident she had first thought. It had been a concern to all of them that the others would be keeping an eye on them, to coin a human phrase. She allowed herself a small smile. The expressions these less advanced beings used were infectious.
“I guess we’d better go break the good news to Dr Strangelove then.”
Now he had her totally confused, who was this Dr Strangelove. Jack caught her enquiring expression.
“Err, it’s a human thing.” Jack mumbled. “It was a movie about doomsday devices, main character was this guy, Dr Strangelove.”
Morgan decided that these humans were a bewildering race. She found herself wishing she’d spent more time among them.
~~~~~
Daniel decided to take a break. Operating the device was extremely draining, and although there was some of Merlin with him, there wasn’t enough to help him out as much he had before. He glanced at the items he’d created. Not bad, he congratulated himself tiredly, a short rest and maybe some food, and that coffee like drink they had here, and he’d be ready to go again. Then, when he got to speak with Morgan, he’d make sure she’d find a way to send Jack somewhere far away where he’d be unable to interfere, and, more importantly, be safe.
TBC - hopefully soon!!
Any kind of feedback? Please write to kauno_saario@yahoo.com I'll be happy to pass it on to Delta666 and she
will get back to you!
# Novel: Consequences Part 5 #
by Delta666
They landed heavily on the ground. Jack still hanging on to Daniel, for some reason he was terrified that They landed heavily on the ground. Jack still hanging on to Daniel, for some reason he was terrified that if he let go Daniel would simply vanish. As the brilliant white light receded, he blinked a few times to clear his vision. He glanced at Daniel who was barely conscious and then quickly took stock of his surroundings. The first thing he saw was that they were in some kind of large room. The beauty of the place escaping him as he saw a dark haired woman dressed entirely in white peering down at them.
“What, who, where…?” He began, but the woman ignored him and leaned down and placed a hand on Daniel’s forehead. Her expression changed to one of concern.
“This could be a problem.” She said and summoned two men who Jack hadn’t previously noticed.
“Hey, where are they taking him?” He demanded as they carried his stricken friend away.
The woman stared at Jack, her intelligent brown eyes seeming to bore in to his soul.
“Daniel was supposed to come alone, we were not expecting another.” She stated looking less than happy at the idea of Jack’s presence. Jack in turn alternated his gaze between her and the corridor down which the men had taken Daniel. He waited for her to explain further, but grew fed up when she merely continued to regard him silently. He made an exasperated sound and then spoke.
“Well, I’m here, and I want to know where they are taking him!” He demanded, his eyes darting over her shoulder again. She seemed to relent slightly.
“He is very sick, they are taking him to our medical facility, do not be concerned. His survival is imperative; he will be well cared for, as for you. You do not belong here.” She looked a little uncertain.
“Hey, I’m not going anywhere. I know he’s sick. First I want to see for myself that he’s gonna be okay, and then, I want you to tell me what the hell this is all about!”
She regarded him for a few moments more and then seemed to make a decision.
“Very well, come with me.” She didn’t wait for a response but merely headed off in the direction that Daniel had been taken. Jack paused for a moment, shrugged and then followed. He figured he’d get his answers sooner or later.
They went across the large airy room and down a corridor to a set of rooms that did indeed look like a small, very hi-tech infirmary. He spotted Daniel lying on a bed with a man, presumably some kind of physician, attending to him.
“What is his condition?” The woman asked. The man turned towards her and straightened up, he gave Jack a curious stare but returned his attention to the woman.
“He will recover; he needs to sleep for a while. We have started to eradicate the fever and infection that was making him sick, the wound will heal naturally, he merely needs rest and to regain strength.”
Jack went and hovered protectively over him. He had to agree that Daniel did look one hell of a lot better, and it was clear that he was merely sleeping peacefully. He felt a weight had been lifted from him, he hadn’t realized quite how worried about his trouble-magnet friend till now. Ten years and he still couldn’t help it. He turned to the woman.
“Okay, I can see that Daniel’s okay, for now, so, are you, or someone going to fill me in, because, let me tell you, I am not a happy camper at the moment, and we have friends who will be looking for us.”
The woman did the stare thing again and then seemed to accept that Jack was here and there was not a lot she could do about it.
“Very well, come with me. I will explain as best I can.”
Again she didn’t wait for a response from him but merely swept from the pristine white room. With a quick glance at Daniel, Jack sighed and followed her. Despite the way they had gotten here, he seemed to sense that they were in no imminent danger. She led him in to what looked like some kind of salon – for want of a better word and took a seat indicating that he should sit too. He glanced down at his less than clean clothing but she nodded that he should sit anyway.
“You are in the City of Ylaaria, these are the Central Chambers where the leaders resided.” She began.
“Acht.” He held up a hand and stopped her mid-sentence.
“We were in that city and it was nothing but a bunch of ruins.”
“Yes, you are correct. And so it will be, but we are in it’s past, before the shields failed and the City was exposed to the elements, and outsiders.”
Jack almost groaned. Had she just said what he’d thought she’d said?
“Just, run that by me again would you?” Praying he’d heard her wrong, or misunderstood.
“The energy field that you encountered, and that brought you and Daniel here was also a means to bring you back to a time when the City was still intact. Except, it was only Daniel who was supposed to have come.” She added, an anxious expression flitting across her face.
“Okay, I’ll take your word for it for now, but why do you want Daniel to be here? And, why is it such a problem that I am as well?”
Again she stared at him. He felt uncomfortable under her penetrating gaze.
“Because, he holds the key to defeating the Ori. They are still a grave threat, and Daniel is the only one who can complete what he and Merlin started.” She stated and Jack felt that weight descend upon him once more.
“No! Daniel’s done enough! He built the weapon and sent it through the ‘Supergate’. The Ori are destroyed, they have to be. Besides, it was Merlin, and he’s gone now, and, how do you know all this anyway?” He demanded, maybe this was a trick, and this woman was Adria, because, of course, he’d never seen her, and there was doubt as to whether she was dead or alive.
“The weapon did not work, there was a component missing, and…” She paused and the continued, but Jack wanted to know what she had been about to say.
“And…?” he interrupted before she continued.
“It is nothing that concerns you. We need Daniel to assist it building another weapon, and to take it back to destroy the Ori once and for all. We have tried without him, but each attempt was a failure. We had hoped to do this without having to……bring him here, but we now have now choice.”
Jack sighed. Always Daniel…why not Carter, or Mitchell, or anyone else, why always Daniel?
“We managed to create the field, we knew Daniel would be drawn to it. What we did not expect was that he would not come alone.”
“Well, I’m here, and as I said, I’m not going anywhere without him.”
“I think Daniel might have something to say about that when he awakens.” She said in a way that sent a little chill through him.
“We’ll see.” Was all he could say. “However, just one question, who the hell are you and how do you know so much about Daniel, Merlin and all that other stuff.”
The woman sighed and look resigned.
“I am Ganos Lal, you may have heard of me referred to as Morgan Le Fay.”
“Okay, the Ascended Ancient from Atlantis.” Jack stated flatly. He just knew THEY have been involved somewhere along the line.
She gave the tiniest of smiles. “That is correct.”
“Okay, so, let me get something straight here. You and whoever else is here are ascended beings, the glowing, the kooky powers, the whole nine-yards, right? And, you clearly want the Ori destroyed like the rest of us do.” He looked at her but continued before she could speak. “So… why don’t you and you’re buddies just zap ‘em with those crazy weird powers of yours?”
She then did something that Jack didn’t expect. She reached out and touched his hand. He was surprised to find that her hand was warm and firm, then he remembered she touched Daniel, of course he hadn’t known he she was then, so he’d thought nothing of it. But now………
“Those of here, now had to take the decision to descend and take human form. It was the only way, that, and hiding here in the past, while the city was still shielded, to keep from the others what we are doing.”
“Ok-ay, that I can understand.” Jack said warily. “But, according to Daniel, Merlin could still use, I mean, he transferred his powers into Daniel..which meant Daniel could use his powers, and Daniel is ‘only a human’.” He emphasized the last three words with air quotes.
“Merlin was still Alterran, he was able to transfer his abilities to Daniel. We have had to assume Human form, we therefore have no greater powers than you. All we have managed to retain is knowledge. Some of us, a few have remained on the ascended plane to assist us when the time comes, but they must keep their intentions away from the others. As far as the others are concerned, all we ‘troublemakers’ were cast out. We let them think that is what they had done, and it was the only way we could continue, and with Daniel and Merlin’s help finally defeat the Ori.”
“Ah, well, that’s where your little master plan might come a little unstuck ‘cos Merlin’s gone.” Jack leaned back and gave her a triumphant smile, if Daniel couldn’t help them, then he was of no use to them, therefore, they could be returned to their own place, time, whatever.
“We are hoping that is indeed not the case. There is too much at stake.” She looked worried.
“Well, according to Daniel, when he had the fight with Adria, that was the last of Merlin. So, perhaps you could just send us back and let us carry on trying to fight these guys the way we know best.”
Morgan was very worried by what this man had just told her. If Merlin had indeed ceased to be, then all could be lost. He had been the only one of the Ancients to have researched and created a weapon capable of destroying the Ori. She had been the only one with whom he’d entrusted this information. But she didn’t have his knowledge and skills.
“Perhaps he left the knowledge within Daniel.” She said hopefully. Jack groaned. He didn’t want Daniel to continue to shoulder so much responsibility. He had already done enough, and was paying a heavy price.
“When Daniel awakens, I will speak with him, I will know whether he has retained Merlin’s knowledge, it is possible, and it if so, then it may be buried deep in his subconscious. You must understand, and, if you are close to Daniel, I believe you will.” She gave him that look again, the one that made him feel as if she could see right in to his mind. “Daniel himself will wish to complete his task, Merlin saw in him true conviction, if he hadn’t, he would never have permitted his consciousness to have been downloaded in to him. We are also aware that Daniel had met with and spoken to the Doci of the Ori, and that he and the woman, Vala, were inhabiting the bodies of those two people in the Ori Galaxy at the time. They saw, and experienced first-hand what the Ori are capable of, and only Daniel knows how to finally stop them.”
Jack stared at Morgan for several long moments before he spoke.
“If you know how dangerous these Ori are, why did none of you step in before? Surely something as big as this warrants what you regard as interference, this isn’t just one or two planets at stake, or even just one galaxy, they intend to reach out and take over – perhaps the entire Universe, and, it’s your buddies under threat as well.”
Morgan allowed a small smile.
“You speak well, Jack O’Neill, but, it is not myself, or any of us currently residing in Ylaaria that you need to convince, apart from the few who are with us and remained ascended to assist us when the time comes. The others are convinced that the Ori will fail, they are too – arrogant, they believe that as ascended beings, they are untouchable.”
“No wonder Daniel couldn’t wait to ‘descend’ back to human form. He’d told me, and I believed him. But, hearing it from you, one of them.” He looked upwards. “Makes me soo glad he didn’t stay ‘up there’.”
This time Morgan’s smile was reflective.
“He hated it, hated that he could see you and his other friends in trouble and yet was unable to help. Hated seeing Anubis growing in power, knowing he had the means to, if not stop him, at least slow him down. The occasions he did get involved he was punished severely for. The final step, when he attempted to stop Anubis destroying Abdydos was when Oma De Sala had no choice but to step in. Had she not, the Others would have, and Daniel would have been exiled both from the Ascended plain and this.”
Jack felt almost sick at that thought. He recalled how Carter had told him about Orlin, condemned to live a solitary existence for having given the inhabitants of Velona the means to build a weapon. Daniel had done more than that, and on more than one occasion.
“Soo, what is it that Daniel can do that you guys can’t?” He asked of her.
“It is complicated. In this city is the means to construct another weapon, the only other place in the galaxy apart from Merlin’s cave, and of course, Adria took that. It is our fear that she may have learned how to use it herself and be constructing a weapon of her own that can destroy the ascended beings in this galaxy.”
“Okay, now, correct me if I’m wrong here. I thought that ascended beings weren’t restricted to just one galaxy. That they existed in this – plane – that’s all seeing, all dancing, the whole nine-yards. So, how come these Ori don’t just zap you guys, or you guys zap them? Why do you need the help of us mere mortals?” And, how come this weapon won’t destroy your guys, I thought it was designed to zap ascended beings period?”
“As I said, Jack.” She looked at him as waiting for him to give her the okay to use his name so familiarly. He nodded his assent. “It is complex. We and the Ori, although initially ascended by the same means, actually exist on separate plains. Part of the reason we have been so reluctant to engage them directly is because, we have no idea as to how such a confrontation will affect the fabric of the Universe, which, I can see in your expression, you think sounds overly dramatic, but this is bigger than you could possibly imagine.” This time there was an earnest look in her eyes. Whether she was right or wrong, Jack decided, she believed it.
“It would be best I think, if we continued this discussion when Daniel has awakened. You look tired Jack, and perhaps hungry?”
He realised he was famished, exhausted, and, a shower and change of clothes wouldn’t exactly go amiss.
“Come, I will show to some rooms where you may refresh yourself, I will have some garments brought to you and we will partake of a meal, where you will be introduced to the rest of us who have chosen this path.”
She took him to what in any hotel he knew of would be a luxury suite. He figured that whoever these Ylaaran’s had been, they sure believed in all the comforts of life. The bath was huge and deep, the water hot and plentiful. By the time he’d luxuriated for almost thirty minutes, he felt physically, if not mentally better. He found some clean clothes had been left laid out on the bed and by the time he’d dressed was ready to eat just about everything these people could provide.
Just as he was deciding whether to go exploring, no one had told him he couldn’t, Morgan Le Fay entered his room.
“Ahh, come, join us for a meal, now that we are corporeal beings, we must eat just as you do, and, I did promise that you could meet the other members of our small group.”
In that way of hers she headed off leaving Jack to follow in her wake. Much as he tended to distrust these ‘ascended’ beings, and by proxy, those who had descended, there was something about this woman, a serenity, dignity, and he suspected, a strong will, as well as the fact that Daniel had told him she’d been willing to give him the information for finding the sangraal before those ubiquitous ‘others’ grabbed her away, made him have faith that her intentions were good.
“Jack, please, take a seat. I will introduce you once we are all here.” Morgan told him as she took her own seat. They were joined by three men and two women. Jack couldn’t deny that he’d been hoping that maybe Skaara might have been among these people, but they were all strangers to him.
Introductions were made as they helped themselves to the food that was already set on the table. Jack got their names, memorised them and to whom they belonged. He realised as the meal progressed that they were all truly committed to helping in the fight against the Ori. They had risked everything to leave their ascended state behind them, and not only re-take their original form, but actually take on human form, thus loosing any advantages they may have had. It was a measure of their desperation that they’d had to choose this path.
After the meal fatigue overcame him and after being assured that Daniel was sleeping peacefully, he went back to his room.
~~~~
He awoke sensing that he was not alone, and when he peered through one eye he was surprised at who his visitor was. Unable to prevent it, he grinned widely.
“Daniel. What are you………….?”
“Hey Jack.” Daniel smiled back at him looking as fit and well as he’d ever seen him. He sat up as Daniel perched on the edge of his bed.
“I take it you aren’t here against doctors orders?” Jack teased, his relief lightening his burden for the moment.
“Yeah, I’ve been declared completely recovered and even the wound has almost healed.” He was a little embarrassed that he’d been so desperate to get to the city, that he’d dug the locater chip from his arm, and foolishly neglected cleaning it properly, which had resulted in infection and his fever.
“Wow, that was fast, soo, you seen Morgan yet?”
A shadow crossed Daniel’s face and Jack felt that weight descend upon him again.
“She explained why I’m – we’re here, you shouldn’t have tried to stop me Jack, you weren’t meant to….”
“Yadda yadda yadda, yeah I know, it was only supposed to have been you, but, you know me Danny, can’t resist a bit of nannying where you’re concerned.”
Daniel sighed, but, he couldn’t help feeling glad that Jack was here with him, even though his presence was going to make things a little tricky.
“Well, you’re here, and they can’t risk sending you back until I’ve built another weapon. The second they deactivate the ‘time-field’ the Ascended Ancients will be able to detect them and stop us. We can’t let that happen, I screwed up once, I can’t afford to screw up this time.”
“Danny, you did what was asked of you, and more, and god knows, you deserve a break. Why can’t one of them do it? Why you?” Jack was growing angry at the unfairness of this situation.
Daniel regarded Jack. When he told him what it was going to take to succeed this time, the sparks were going to fly big time. He was going to have to hold back some of the details, for, when Jack found out, he just knew he would not like it one little bit.
“Ummm, it’s complicated Jack. It’s got something to do with Merlin having downloaded his consciousness and knowledge in to my head.” He paused and traced an invisible pattern on Jack’s bedcovering. Jack could sense that there was a lot that Daniel was holding back.
“Daniel?” He prompted after a stretch of silence.
“I’m trying to get my own head around all this Jack. Morgan explained to me about the ‘back in time’ thing. Sam would have a field day.” He smiled and Jack returned it with one of his own.
“Daniel, her head would have exploded by now. And what about you, I mean, this place must be an archaeologist’s dream huh? An Ancient city, intact, fully functional, you gonna take a look around?”
“I don’t know, I mean, of course, I’d love to, but, I think time – pardon the pun, isn’t on our side. There’s only so long that they can maintain the field. I have to build the weapon, there’s one of Merlin’s head-grabbers in the lab. But, the second the field collapses, we’ll all be thrown back to our own time, the others will know and try to stop us. Why, I have no idea. They are as much at risk as the rest of us, more in fact. The Ori want to destroy the Ancients. The Ancients, well specifically, the others, are too arrogant to believe that can happen. If the Ori do attack, they will be forced to defend themselves, and, the repercussions of that for the rest of the Universe are to huge to bear thinking about. Their battle will affect every one, no matter what plane or dimension they inhabit.” Daniel had risen and was pacing around the room now, his frustration at the ‘others’ getting to him, he was gesturing with his arms like he used to. Jack was taken back to the days when he used to do that all the ti me. Except, back then, it was usually him that Daniel’s frustration was aimed at. A small smile touched his face as he remembered those early days, when all they had to worry about were the Goa’uld. Nasty, arrogant, badly dressed, overblown, cliché spouting snakeheads. But, at least they played in the same sandbox. These damned Ascended beings could actually bring about the annihilation of everything.
“Okay Danny, I get the point, and I’m on your side, so, take a breath and stop imitating a windmill will ya, you’re wearing me out.”
Daniel stopped in his tracks, stared at Jack for a moment, and, much to Jack’s relief visibly relaxed and retook his perch on the edge of his bed.
“So, you’ve got to build another one of those weapons. The means to do it is here, once it’s ready what? We go back to ‘our time’ get it through to the Ori galaxy like before, and volia! End of another bunch of false gods. Maybe we should consider slaying false gods for a living.” Jack quipped and was rewarded with one of Daniel’s really rare smiles, the kind that made his whole face light up.
“Thought we already did that.” Daniel retorted lightly, relieved that, at least for the moment, Jack seemed satisfied with his explanation so far.
“Okay, so, do it then. Build it, we’ll get it to the Ori galaxy, err, you’re not gonna have to go prior on us again are you?”
“No Jack, Morgan explained that those who have remained ascended, one of which is Skaara, by the way.” He revealed with a grin. “Can help us with that.”
“Sweet, d’ya think we’ll get a chance to say hi to him?”
“If all goes according to plan, I don’t see why not.” Daniel said thoughtfully.
“Anyone else we know…” Jack asked as he twirled a hand around indicating ‘above’
“Most of the Abydonians. In fact, according to Morgan, it was they who finally convinced her and the few that are here, to be a little more proactive. Of course, Oma would have been right here with us too, but, she’s still kind of got her hands full.” There was a wistful note in Daniel’s voice. There was a distinct possibility that Oma could be destroyed when the weapon was deployed. The only consolation being, that so would Anubis.
“It’s a real mess.” Jack said softly.
“Uh-huh.” Daniel agreed, and they sat in silence for a little while. A lot of good ‘beings’ were potentially going to loose their – lives – for want of a better word. But in the immortal words of a certain Vulcan from the old TV show. ‘The Needs of the Many outweigh the Needs of the Few, or the One’ he finished sadly.
“Soo, these descended guys, they eat breakfast?” Jack threw back the covers and headed for the bathroom. Daniel smiled. He would be eternally grateful for Jack always being – Jack.
“Sure, as soon as you’re ready we’ll go and grab some. They’ve even got something that passes for decent coffee.” He said raising his voice so Jack could hear him. In the bathroom, Jack smiled. If there was one constant in the Universe, it was Daniel and his coffee addiction.
After eating. Morgan, who seemed far more at ease with the idea that Jack was here, or maybe it was just there was nothing she could do about it for now, accompanied them to the lab. It was in a chamber deep in the bowels of the city. Morgan had told Daniel that Merlin had used this time shift method before he’d developed the phase shifting device. Apparently, the tine shift device was a lot more tricky to operate, and used a great deal of power compared to the phase shifting device.
Jack wandered around the cluttered room picking up random objects and replacing them when he realised he had no idea what they were, he perched on a stool and juggled a couple of stones that he’d found. Daniel felt a stab of nostalgia. How many times over the years had Jack done exactly the same thing in his old office back at the SGC. Usually when the older man was bored, and when he was trying to work on some terribly vital translation. He really missed those days. Which then led him to wonder how Sam, Teal’c, Vala and Mitchell were faring. That led to thoughts of Woolsey and the IOA. No doubt they were trying to hunt him down, and Jack too now. He figured that they were both now branded as some kind of galactic renegades. He hoped the rest of SG-1 were okay. Had Mitchell realised what he was getting himself in to, would he have been so keen to ‘get the band back together’ had he had the slightest idea? Probably, he thought ruefully. The guy was downright irrepressible. And Vala? He sighed. She’d better be keeping herself out of trouble. Teal’c would keep an eye one her, of that he was certain.
“What you up to Daniel?” He jumped, he’d been so deep in thought he hadn’t realised Jack was standing so close he was almost touching him.
“Oh, err, nothing, well, not nothing actually, just wondering about the others, Sam, Teal’c, Mitchell, Vala. I hope Woolsey isn’t giving them a hard time.”
“They’ll be fine Danny. Vala’ll tie him in knots and Carter’ll techobabble him in to a coma.” Jack stared at the headgrabber. Similar, yet different to the two he’d stuck his head in.
“Soo, that’s the gizmo then, you just…” He made a motion with his hands.
“Yes Jack, I, just think what needs to be made, and presto, it materialises over there.” He indicated a round table like structure.
“Soo, you control it, it won’t go sticking a bunch of stuff in your head like it did me?”
“Well, it shouldn’t. I mean, it did when Merlin transferred his consciousness in to me, but that was different. He knew he was dying, and I knew it was going to happen. But no, all I’m going to do this time is manufacture the components and get the thing built.”
Jack felt that he should have found Daniel’s explanation reassuring, but, those little hairs on the back of his neck were at attention. What was Daniel NOT telling him?
“Once it’s assembled. One of these guys will activate the ship…”
“Ship?” Jack cut in.
“Yes Jack. The ship. How else are we going to get to the Supergate?” Daniel’s tone had taken on a note of exaggerated patience.
“Anything else you’d care to share now Daniel, please, don’t go all Tok’ra on me, that I won’t put up with.”
“That’s it Jack, there’s a ship that will get m..us to the ‘gate, that’s when Skaara and the rest of them will help open the ‘gate to the Ori galaxy, I’ll add the final component to weapon and poof, no more Ori.”
“Poof! Daniel?” Jack quipped, and frowned at the lack of response, plus, he wasn’t sure he liked the way Daniel had said that last bit a little too quickly, and he hadn’t missed that fact that Daniel had started to say me! “You mean that red stone thing?” He decided to ask instead. The big questions that were bugging him, he’d leave till later.
“I’d better get started.” Daniel hedged. “You might as well go for a walk or something, you’ll only be bored in about five seconds flat and distract me.”
Jack planted his butt firmly on the stool.
“No way Danny-Boy. I wanna see you in action.”
Daniel sighed in what he hoped would pass for a long suffering manner rather than the wobbly nervous sigh he felt like emitting. The last time he’d done this it had been an incredible drain on him both physically and mentally. Not so much so after he’d been ‘priorised’. But, he didn’t really want Jack fussing over him like he was wont to do.
“Jack, would you not like to see the ship?” Morgan stepped in. She’d been so quiet up till now that Jack had more or less forgotten she was there.
“Jack. Please. I’ll be fine, not like I haven’t done this…” He gestured in the general direction of the head grabber…”Before.”
“Come, this would be a good time for me to show how the vessel is operated.” Morgan insisted and revealed a small device that she pulled out from a concealed pocket in her gown. “Daniel has one of these, a communications device. If he requires aid, he will summons us.”
Jack looked pointedly at Daniel.
“I promise Jack, now go play with the toys.” Daniel added what he hoped was a reassuring smile. He realised he also needed to speak to Morgan again, alone as soon as the opportunity arose.
“Need I remind you Jack, that time is of the essence? Every moment we delay drains the time shift device further. The weapon must be completed before the power is completely depleted.
With a parting glance at Daniel he followed Morgan, but, that niggling feeling of dread wouldn’t allow itself to be quelled, no matter how hard he tried.
Daniel breathed a sigh of relief at Jack’s departure. Not that he didn’t value the fact that Jack was there, despite the fact he wasn’t supposed to be, but, he needed no distractions while he got on with his task. He took a deep breath and stepped toward the device. It reacted immediately, as if sensing his presence, and he placed his head inside it and realised as soon as he did, that what he’d been beginning to suspect, was in fact real. Merlin hadn’t left him completely. He, or at least some part of his consciousness was still within him, and the device was enabling him to escape the deep recess of his mind in to which he’d retreated after the battle with Adria.
Jack positively drooled when he saw the ship. It was a beaut! Sleek, sinuous almost, even though, as Carter had patiently explained to him once when he’d complained at the ‘lumpiness’ of the Prometheus, ships that flew through space didn’t need to be aerodynamic since there was no resistance. Inside it reminded him a little of the insides of the ‘Puddle Jumpers’ but a lot more sophisticated. He couldn’t resist sliding in to the pilots seat and run his hands over the smooth control panel. At his touch things started to happen and he heard a gasp of surprise from the women standing behind him.
“Jack, this should not be happening.” She remarked, clearly puzzled. Jack felt smug for the first time since he’d been dragged in to this place.
It’s a gift.” He said glibly enjoying the fact that he’d disturbed Morgan Le Fay’s impenetrable air of calm.
“You must possess the gene.”
“Yousureyoubetcha! The Asgard kinda thought I was a bit special you know.” He just couldn’t help gloating a little. He found himself liking this descended Ancient woman, but, she did have a bit of a superior air about her.
“Which means, you could fly this ship, perhaps your presence here was not just a mere accident.” She mused out loud.
“Thought you guys already had a pilot lined up?” He was eyeing up an interesting looking symbol, something told him that was the doohickey that would open the Supergate.
“We had several volunteers, however, I think you appreciate that, whoever undertakes this task will risk incurring the wrath of the others. As I explained, even though we have taken human form, once the time shift device is deactivated, they will be able to monitor our actions. We knew that when we made the decision, that we are all risking punishment. However, as you are not of the Ascended Ancients, they may not bother to observe your actions.”
“Okay, I’ll do it.” As far as Jack was concerned, it was a given. If Daniel was going to engage in something reckless, then who better to watch his six. Besides, he couldn’t sit somewhere helplessly twiddling his thumbs while Daniel went off and did whatever it was he was going to do, and deep down, Jack knew that this time was going to be a whole lot different to his last attempt.
“Jack, I believe that this endeavour may have a significant chance of succeeding with your assistance.”
“Danny’s not gonna like it though.” He responded reflectively.
“Perhaps not, but he does also realise the gravity of the situation Jack.” She favoured this intriguing man with an assessing look. “Daniel trusts you, perhaps more than anyone, he will most likely resist the notion of you flying him to the Ori Stargate, but, he will also understand that it will decrease the likelihood of the others stepping in.”
Jack figured she was right. But Daniel could be one stubborn SOB. And for all the accusations that he could be overprotective of the younger man, Daniel could be just as bad when it came to those he cared about. Jack also figured that the level of Daniel’s resistance would be a good indication of exactly how risky this mission really was going to be.
Morgan was now convinced that Jack’s presence was not the accident she had first thought. It had been a concern to all of them that the others would be keeping an eye on them, to coin a human phrase. She allowed herself a small smile. The expressions these less advanced beings used were infectious.
“I guess we’d better go break the good news to Dr Strangelove then.”
Now he had her totally confused, who was this Dr Strangelove. Jack caught her enquiring expression.
“Err, it’s a human thing.” Jack mumbled. “It was a movie about doomsday devices, main character was this guy, Dr Strangelove.”
Morgan decided that these humans were a bewildering race. She found herself wishing she’d spent more time among them.
~~~~~
Daniel decided to take a break. Operating the device was extremely draining, and although there was some of Merlin with him, there wasn’t enough to help him out as much he had before. He glanced at the items he’d created. Not bad, he congratulated himself tiredly, a short rest and maybe some food, and that coffee like drink they had here, and he’d be ready to go again. Then, when he got to speak with Morgan, he’d make sure she’d find a way to send Jack somewhere far away where he’d be unable to interfere, and, more importantly, be safe.
TBC - hopefully soon!!
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“What, who, where…?” He began, but the woman ignored him and leaned down and placed a hand on Daniel’s forehead. Her expression changed to one of concern.
“This could be a problem.” She said and summoned two men who Jack hadn’t previously noticed.
“Hey, where are they taking him?” He demanded as they carried his stricken friend away.
The woman stared at Jack, her intelligent brown eyes seeming to bore in to his soul.
“Daniel was supposed to come alone, we were not expecting another.” She stated looking less than happy at the idea of Jack’s presence. Jack in turn alternated his gaze between her and the corridor down which the men had taken Daniel. He waited for her to explain further, but grew fed up when she merely continued to regard him silently. He made an exasperated sound and then spoke.
“Well, I’m here, and I want to know where they are taking him!” He demanded, his eyes darting over her shoulder again. She seemed to relent slightly.
“He is very sick, they are taking him to our medical facility, do not be concerned. His survival is imperative; he will be well cared for, as for you. You do not belong here.” She looked a little uncertain.
“Hey, I’m not going anywhere. I know he’s sick. First I want to see for myself that he’s gonna be okay, and then, I want you to tell me what the hell this is all about!”
She regarded him for a few moments more and then seemed to make a decision.
“Very well, come with me.” She didn’t wait for a response but merely headed off in the direction that Daniel had been taken. Jack paused for a moment, shrugged and then followed. He figured he’d get his answers sooner or later.
They went across the large airy room and down a corridor to a set of rooms that did indeed look like a small, very hi-tech infirmary. He spotted Daniel lying on a bed with a man, presumably some kind of physician, attending to him.
“What is his condition?” The woman asked. The man turned towards her and straightened up, he gave Jack a curious stare but returned his attention to the woman.
“He will recover; he needs to sleep for a while. We have started to eradicate the fever and infection that was making him sick, the wound will heal naturally, he merely needs rest and to regain strength.”
Jack went and hovered protectively over him. He had to agree that Daniel did look one hell of a lot better, and it was clear that he was merely sleeping peacefully. He felt a weight had been lifted from him, he hadn’t realized quite how worried about his trouble-magnet friend till now. Ten years and he still couldn’t help it. He turned to the woman.
“Okay, I can see that Daniel’s okay, for now, so, are you, or someone going to fill me in, because, let me tell you, I am not a happy camper at the moment, and we have friends who will be looking for us.”
The woman did the stare thing again and then seemed to accept that Jack was here and there was not a lot she could do about it.
“Very well, come with me. I will explain as best I can.”
Again she didn’t wait for a response from him but merely swept from the pristine white room. With a quick glance at Daniel, Jack sighed and followed her. Despite the way they had gotten here, he seemed to sense that they were in no imminent danger. She led him in to what looked like some kind of salon – for want of a better word and took a seat indicating that he should sit too. He glanced down at his less than clean clothing but she nodded that he should sit anyway.
“You are in the City of Ylaaria, these are the Central Chambers where the leaders resided.” She began.
“Acht.” He held up a hand and stopped her mid-sentence.
“We were in that city and it was nothing but a bunch of ruins.”
“Yes, you are correct. And so it will be, but we are in it’s past, before the shields failed and the City was exposed to the elements, and outsiders.”
Jack almost groaned. Had she just said what he’d thought she’d said?
“Just, run that by me again would you?” Praying he’d heard her wrong, or misunderstood.
“The energy field that you encountered, and that brought you and Daniel here was also a means to bring you back to a time when the City was still intact. Except, it was only Daniel who was supposed to have come.” She added, an anxious expression flitting across her face.
“Okay, I’ll take your word for it for now, but why do you want Daniel to be here? And, why is it such a problem that I am as well?”
Again she stared at him. He felt uncomfortable under her penetrating gaze.
“Because, he holds the key to defeating the Ori. They are still a grave threat, and Daniel is the only one who can complete what he and Merlin started.” She stated and Jack felt that weight descend upon him once more.
“No! Daniel’s done enough! He built the weapon and sent it through the ‘Supergate’. The Ori are destroyed, they have to be. Besides, it was Merlin, and he’s gone now, and, how do you know all this anyway?” He demanded, maybe this was a trick, and this woman was Adria, because, of course, he’d never seen her, and there was doubt as to whether she was dead or alive.
“The weapon did not work, there was a component missing, and…” She paused and the continued, but Jack wanted to know what she had been about to say.
“And…?” he interrupted before she continued.
“It is nothing that concerns you. We need Daniel to assist it building another weapon, and to take it back to destroy the Ori once and for all. We have tried without him, but each attempt was a failure. We had hoped to do this without having to……bring him here, but we now have now choice.”
Jack sighed. Always Daniel…why not Carter, or Mitchell, or anyone else, why always Daniel?
“We managed to create the field, we knew Daniel would be drawn to it. What we did not expect was that he would not come alone.”
“Well, I’m here, and as I said, I’m not going anywhere without him.”
“I think Daniel might have something to say about that when he awakens.” She said in a way that sent a little chill through him.
“We’ll see.” Was all he could say. “However, just one question, who the hell are you and how do you know so much about Daniel, Merlin and all that other stuff.”
The woman sighed and look resigned.
“I am Ganos Lal, you may have heard of me referred to as Morgan Le Fay.”
“Okay, the Ascended Ancient from Atlantis.” Jack stated flatly. He just knew THEY have been involved somewhere along the line.
She gave the tiniest of smiles. “That is correct.”
“Okay, so, let me get something straight here. You and whoever else is here are ascended beings, the glowing, the kooky powers, the whole nine-yards, right? And, you clearly want the Ori destroyed like the rest of us do.” He looked at her but continued before she could speak. “So… why don’t you and you’re buddies just zap ‘em with those crazy weird powers of yours?”
She then did something that Jack didn’t expect. She reached out and touched his hand. He was surprised to find that her hand was warm and firm, then he remembered she touched Daniel, of course he hadn’t known he she was then, so he’d thought nothing of it. But now………
“Those of here, now had to take the decision to descend and take human form. It was the only way, that, and hiding here in the past, while the city was still shielded, to keep from the others what we are doing.”
“Ok-ay, that I can understand.” Jack said warily. “But, according to Daniel, Merlin could still use, I mean, he transferred his powers into Daniel..which meant Daniel could use his powers, and Daniel is ‘only a human’.” He emphasized the last three words with air quotes.
“Merlin was still Alterran, he was able to transfer his abilities to Daniel. We have had to assume Human form, we therefore have no greater powers than you. All we have managed to retain is knowledge. Some of us, a few have remained on the ascended plane to assist us when the time comes, but they must keep their intentions away from the others. As far as the others are concerned, all we ‘troublemakers’ were cast out. We let them think that is what they had done, and it was the only way we could continue, and with Daniel and Merlin’s help finally defeat the Ori.”
“Ah, well, that’s where your little master plan might come a little unstuck ‘cos Merlin’s gone.” Jack leaned back and gave her a triumphant smile, if Daniel couldn’t help them, then he was of no use to them, therefore, they could be returned to their own place, time, whatever.
“We are hoping that is indeed not the case. There is too much at stake.” She looked worried.
“Well, according to Daniel, when he had the fight with Adria, that was the last of Merlin. So, perhaps you could just send us back and let us carry on trying to fight these guys the way we know best.”
Morgan was very worried by what this man had just told her. If Merlin had indeed ceased to be, then all could be lost. He had been the only one of the Ancients to have researched and created a weapon capable of destroying the Ori. She had been the only one with whom he’d entrusted this information. But she didn’t have his knowledge and skills.
“Perhaps he left the knowledge within Daniel.” She said hopefully. Jack groaned. He didn’t want Daniel to continue to shoulder so much responsibility. He had already done enough, and was paying a heavy price.
“When Daniel awakens, I will speak with him, I will know whether he has retained Merlin’s knowledge, it is possible, and it if so, then it may be buried deep in his subconscious. You must understand, and, if you are close to Daniel, I believe you will.” She gave him that look again, the one that made him feel as if she could see right in to his mind. “Daniel himself will wish to complete his task, Merlin saw in him true conviction, if he hadn’t, he would never have permitted his consciousness to have been downloaded in to him. We are also aware that Daniel had met with and spoken to the Doci of the Ori, and that he and the woman, Vala, were inhabiting the bodies of those two people in the Ori Galaxy at the time. They saw, and experienced first-hand what the Ori are capable of, and only Daniel knows how to finally stop them.”
Jack stared at Morgan for several long moments before he spoke.
“If you know how dangerous these Ori are, why did none of you step in before? Surely something as big as this warrants what you regard as interference, this isn’t just one or two planets at stake, or even just one galaxy, they intend to reach out and take over – perhaps the entire Universe, and, it’s your buddies under threat as well.”
Morgan allowed a small smile.
“You speak well, Jack O’Neill, but, it is not myself, or any of us currently residing in Ylaaria that you need to convince, apart from the few who are with us and remained ascended to assist us when the time comes. The others are convinced that the Ori will fail, they are too – arrogant, they believe that as ascended beings, they are untouchable.”
“No wonder Daniel couldn’t wait to ‘descend’ back to human form. He’d told me, and I believed him. But, hearing it from you, one of them.” He looked upwards. “Makes me soo glad he didn’t stay ‘up there’.”
This time Morgan’s smile was reflective.
“He hated it, hated that he could see you and his other friends in trouble and yet was unable to help. Hated seeing Anubis growing in power, knowing he had the means to, if not stop him, at least slow him down. The occasions he did get involved he was punished severely for. The final step, when he attempted to stop Anubis destroying Abdydos was when Oma De Sala had no choice but to step in. Had she not, the Others would have, and Daniel would have been exiled both from the Ascended plain and this.”
Jack felt almost sick at that thought. He recalled how Carter had told him about Orlin, condemned to live a solitary existence for having given the inhabitants of Velona the means to build a weapon. Daniel had done more than that, and on more than one occasion.
“Soo, what is it that Daniel can do that you guys can’t?” He asked of her.
“It is complicated. In this city is the means to construct another weapon, the only other place in the galaxy apart from Merlin’s cave, and of course, Adria took that. It is our fear that she may have learned how to use it herself and be constructing a weapon of her own that can destroy the ascended beings in this galaxy.”
“Okay, now, correct me if I’m wrong here. I thought that ascended beings weren’t restricted to just one galaxy. That they existed in this – plane – that’s all seeing, all dancing, the whole nine-yards. So, how come these Ori don’t just zap you guys, or you guys zap them? Why do you need the help of us mere mortals?” And, how come this weapon won’t destroy your guys, I thought it was designed to zap ascended beings period?”
“As I said, Jack.” She looked at him as waiting for him to give her the okay to use his name so familiarly. He nodded his assent. “It is complex. We and the Ori, although initially ascended by the same means, actually exist on separate plains. Part of the reason we have been so reluctant to engage them directly is because, we have no idea as to how such a confrontation will affect the fabric of the Universe, which, I can see in your expression, you think sounds overly dramatic, but this is bigger than you could possibly imagine.” This time there was an earnest look in her eyes. Whether she was right or wrong, Jack decided, she believed it.
“It would be best I think, if we continued this discussion when Daniel has awakened. You look tired Jack, and perhaps hungry?”
He realised he was famished, exhausted, and, a shower and change of clothes wouldn’t exactly go amiss.
“Come, I will show to some rooms where you may refresh yourself, I will have some garments brought to you and we will partake of a meal, where you will be introduced to the rest of us who have chosen this path.”
She took him to what in any hotel he knew of would be a luxury suite. He figured that whoever these Ylaaran’s had been, they sure believed in all the comforts of life. The bath was huge and deep, the water hot and plentiful. By the time he’d luxuriated for almost thirty minutes, he felt physically, if not mentally better. He found some clean clothes had been left laid out on the bed and by the time he’d dressed was ready to eat just about everything these people could provide.
Just as he was deciding whether to go exploring, no one had told him he couldn’t, Morgan Le Fay entered his room.
“Ahh, come, join us for a meal, now that we are corporeal beings, we must eat just as you do, and, I did promise that you could meet the other members of our small group.”
In that way of hers she headed off leaving Jack to follow in her wake. Much as he tended to distrust these ‘ascended’ beings, and by proxy, those who had descended, there was something about this woman, a serenity, dignity, and he suspected, a strong will, as well as the fact that Daniel had told him she’d been willing to give him the information for finding the sangraal before those ubiquitous ‘others’ grabbed her away, made him have faith that her intentions were good.
“Jack, please, take a seat. I will introduce you once we are all here.” Morgan told him as she took her own seat. They were joined by three men and two women. Jack couldn’t deny that he’d been hoping that maybe Skaara might have been among these people, but they were all strangers to him.
Introductions were made as they helped themselves to the food that was already set on the table. Jack got their names, memorised them and to whom they belonged. He realised as the meal progressed that they were all truly committed to helping in the fight against the Ori. They had risked everything to leave their ascended state behind them, and not only re-take their original form, but actually take on human form, thus loosing any advantages they may have had. It was a measure of their desperation that they’d had to choose this path.
After the meal fatigue overcame him and after being assured that Daniel was sleeping peacefully, he went back to his room.
~~~~
He awoke sensing that he was not alone, and when he peered through one eye he was surprised at who his visitor was. Unable to prevent it, he grinned widely.
“Daniel. What are you………….?”
“Hey Jack.” Daniel smiled back at him looking as fit and well as he’d ever seen him. He sat up as Daniel perched on the edge of his bed.
“I take it you aren’t here against doctors orders?” Jack teased, his relief lightening his burden for the moment.
“Yeah, I’ve been declared completely recovered and even the wound has almost healed.” He was a little embarrassed that he’d been so desperate to get to the city, that he’d dug the locater chip from his arm, and foolishly neglected cleaning it properly, which had resulted in infection and his fever.
“Wow, that was fast, soo, you seen Morgan yet?”
A shadow crossed Daniel’s face and Jack felt that weight descend upon him again.
“She explained why I’m – we’re here, you shouldn’t have tried to stop me Jack, you weren’t meant to….”
“Yadda yadda yadda, yeah I know, it was only supposed to have been you, but, you know me Danny, can’t resist a bit of nannying where you’re concerned.”
Daniel sighed, but, he couldn’t help feeling glad that Jack was here with him, even though his presence was going to make things a little tricky.
“Well, you’re here, and they can’t risk sending you back until I’ve built another weapon. The second they deactivate the ‘time-field’ the Ascended Ancients will be able to detect them and stop us. We can’t let that happen, I screwed up once, I can’t afford to screw up this time.”
“Danny, you did what was asked of you, and more, and god knows, you deserve a break. Why can’t one of them do it? Why you?” Jack was growing angry at the unfairness of this situation.
Daniel regarded Jack. When he told him what it was going to take to succeed this time, the sparks were going to fly big time. He was going to have to hold back some of the details, for, when Jack found out, he just knew he would not like it one little bit.
“Ummm, it’s complicated Jack. It’s got something to do with Merlin having downloaded his consciousness and knowledge in to my head.” He paused and traced an invisible pattern on Jack’s bedcovering. Jack could sense that there was a lot that Daniel was holding back.
“Daniel?” He prompted after a stretch of silence.
“I’m trying to get my own head around all this Jack. Morgan explained to me about the ‘back in time’ thing. Sam would have a field day.” He smiled and Jack returned it with one of his own.
“Daniel, her head would have exploded by now. And what about you, I mean, this place must be an archaeologist’s dream huh? An Ancient city, intact, fully functional, you gonna take a look around?”
“I don’t know, I mean, of course, I’d love to, but, I think time – pardon the pun, isn’t on our side. There’s only so long that they can maintain the field. I have to build the weapon, there’s one of Merlin’s head-grabbers in the lab. But, the second the field collapses, we’ll all be thrown back to our own time, the others will know and try to stop us. Why, I have no idea. They are as much at risk as the rest of us, more in fact. The Ori want to destroy the Ancients. The Ancients, well specifically, the others, are too arrogant to believe that can happen. If the Ori do attack, they will be forced to defend themselves, and, the repercussions of that for the rest of the Universe are to huge to bear thinking about. Their battle will affect every one, no matter what plane or dimension they inhabit.” Daniel had risen and was pacing around the room now, his frustration at the ‘others’ getting to him, he was gesturing with his arms like he used to. Jack was taken back to the days when he used to do that all the ti me. Except, back then, it was usually him that Daniel’s frustration was aimed at. A small smile touched his face as he remembered those early days, when all they had to worry about were the Goa’uld. Nasty, arrogant, badly dressed, overblown, cliché spouting snakeheads. But, at least they played in the same sandbox. These damned Ascended beings could actually bring about the annihilation of everything.
“Okay Danny, I get the point, and I’m on your side, so, take a breath and stop imitating a windmill will ya, you’re wearing me out.”
Daniel stopped in his tracks, stared at Jack for a moment, and, much to Jack’s relief visibly relaxed and retook his perch on the edge of his bed.
“So, you’ve got to build another one of those weapons. The means to do it is here, once it’s ready what? We go back to ‘our time’ get it through to the Ori galaxy like before, and volia! End of another bunch of false gods. Maybe we should consider slaying false gods for a living.” Jack quipped and was rewarded with one of Daniel’s really rare smiles, the kind that made his whole face light up.
“Thought we already did that.” Daniel retorted lightly, relieved that, at least for the moment, Jack seemed satisfied with his explanation so far.
“Okay, so, do it then. Build it, we’ll get it to the Ori galaxy, err, you’re not gonna have to go prior on us again are you?”
“No Jack, Morgan explained that those who have remained ascended, one of which is Skaara, by the way.” He revealed with a grin. “Can help us with that.”
“Sweet, d’ya think we’ll get a chance to say hi to him?”
“If all goes according to plan, I don’t see why not.” Daniel said thoughtfully.
“Anyone else we know…” Jack asked as he twirled a hand around indicating ‘above’
“Most of the Abydonians. In fact, according to Morgan, it was they who finally convinced her and the few that are here, to be a little more proactive. Of course, Oma would have been right here with us too, but, she’s still kind of got her hands full.” There was a wistful note in Daniel’s voice. There was a distinct possibility that Oma could be destroyed when the weapon was deployed. The only consolation being, that so would Anubis.
“It’s a real mess.” Jack said softly.
“Uh-huh.” Daniel agreed, and they sat in silence for a little while. A lot of good ‘beings’ were potentially going to loose their – lives – for want of a better word. But in the immortal words of a certain Vulcan from the old TV show. ‘The Needs of the Many outweigh the Needs of the Few, or the One’ he finished sadly.
“Soo, these descended guys, they eat breakfast?” Jack threw back the covers and headed for the bathroom. Daniel smiled. He would be eternally grateful for Jack always being – Jack.
“Sure, as soon as you’re ready we’ll go and grab some. They’ve even got something that passes for decent coffee.” He said raising his voice so Jack could hear him. In the bathroom, Jack smiled. If there was one constant in the Universe, it was Daniel and his coffee addiction.
After eating. Morgan, who seemed far more at ease with the idea that Jack was here, or maybe it was just there was nothing she could do about it for now, accompanied them to the lab. It was in a chamber deep in the bowels of the city. Morgan had told Daniel that Merlin had used this time shift method before he’d developed the phase shifting device. Apparently, the tine shift device was a lot more tricky to operate, and used a great deal of power compared to the phase shifting device.
Jack wandered around the cluttered room picking up random objects and replacing them when he realised he had no idea what they were, he perched on a stool and juggled a couple of stones that he’d found. Daniel felt a stab of nostalgia. How many times over the years had Jack done exactly the same thing in his old office back at the SGC. Usually when the older man was bored, and when he was trying to work on some terribly vital translation. He really missed those days. Which then led him to wonder how Sam, Teal’c, Vala and Mitchell were faring. That led to thoughts of Woolsey and the IOA. No doubt they were trying to hunt him down, and Jack too now. He figured that they were both now branded as some kind of galactic renegades. He hoped the rest of SG-1 were okay. Had Mitchell realised what he was getting himself in to, would he have been so keen to ‘get the band back together’ had he had the slightest idea? Probably, he thought ruefully. The guy was downright irrepressible. And Vala? He sighed. She’d better be keeping herself out of trouble. Teal’c would keep an eye one her, of that he was certain.
“What you up to Daniel?” He jumped, he’d been so deep in thought he hadn’t realised Jack was standing so close he was almost touching him.
“Oh, err, nothing, well, not nothing actually, just wondering about the others, Sam, Teal’c, Mitchell, Vala. I hope Woolsey isn’t giving them a hard time.”
“They’ll be fine Danny. Vala’ll tie him in knots and Carter’ll techobabble him in to a coma.” Jack stared at the headgrabber. Similar, yet different to the two he’d stuck his head in.
“Soo, that’s the gizmo then, you just…” He made a motion with his hands.
“Yes Jack, I, just think what needs to be made, and presto, it materialises over there.” He indicated a round table like structure.
“Soo, you control it, it won’t go sticking a bunch of stuff in your head like it did me?”
“Well, it shouldn’t. I mean, it did when Merlin transferred his consciousness in to me, but that was different. He knew he was dying, and I knew it was going to happen. But no, all I’m going to do this time is manufacture the components and get the thing built.”
Jack felt that he should have found Daniel’s explanation reassuring, but, those little hairs on the back of his neck were at attention. What was Daniel NOT telling him?
“Once it’s assembled. One of these guys will activate the ship…”
“Ship?” Jack cut in.
“Yes Jack. The ship. How else are we going to get to the Supergate?” Daniel’s tone had taken on a note of exaggerated patience.
“Anything else you’d care to share now Daniel, please, don’t go all Tok’ra on me, that I won’t put up with.”
“That’s it Jack, there’s a ship that will get m..us to the ‘gate, that’s when Skaara and the rest of them will help open the ‘gate to the Ori galaxy, I’ll add the final component to weapon and poof, no more Ori.”
“Poof! Daniel?” Jack quipped, and frowned at the lack of response, plus, he wasn’t sure he liked the way Daniel had said that last bit a little too quickly, and he hadn’t missed that fact that Daniel had started to say me! “You mean that red stone thing?” He decided to ask instead. The big questions that were bugging him, he’d leave till later.
“I’d better get started.” Daniel hedged. “You might as well go for a walk or something, you’ll only be bored in about five seconds flat and distract me.”
Jack planted his butt firmly on the stool.
“No way Danny-Boy. I wanna see you in action.”
Daniel sighed in what he hoped would pass for a long suffering manner rather than the wobbly nervous sigh he felt like emitting. The last time he’d done this it had been an incredible drain on him both physically and mentally. Not so much so after he’d been ‘priorised’. But, he didn’t really want Jack fussing over him like he was wont to do.
“Jack, would you not like to see the ship?” Morgan stepped in. She’d been so quiet up till now that Jack had more or less forgotten she was there.
“Jack. Please. I’ll be fine, not like I haven’t done this…” He gestured in the general direction of the head grabber…”Before.”
“Come, this would be a good time for me to show how the vessel is operated.” Morgan insisted and revealed a small device that she pulled out from a concealed pocket in her gown. “Daniel has one of these, a communications device. If he requires aid, he will summons us.”
Jack looked pointedly at Daniel.
“I promise Jack, now go play with the toys.” Daniel added what he hoped was a reassuring smile. He realised he also needed to speak to Morgan again, alone as soon as the opportunity arose.
“Need I remind you Jack, that time is of the essence? Every moment we delay drains the time shift device further. The weapon must be completed before the power is completely depleted.
With a parting glance at Daniel he followed Morgan, but, that niggling feeling of dread wouldn’t allow itself to be quelled, no matter how hard he tried.
Daniel breathed a sigh of relief at Jack’s departure. Not that he didn’t value the fact that Jack was there, despite the fact he wasn’t supposed to be, but, he needed no distractions while he got on with his task. He took a deep breath and stepped toward the device. It reacted immediately, as if sensing his presence, and he placed his head inside it and realised as soon as he did, that what he’d been beginning to suspect, was in fact real. Merlin hadn’t left him completely. He, or at least some part of his consciousness was still within him, and the device was enabling him to escape the deep recess of his mind in to which he’d retreated after the battle with Adria.
Jack positively drooled when he saw the ship. It was a beaut! Sleek, sinuous almost, even though, as Carter had patiently explained to him once when he’d complained at the ‘lumpiness’ of the Prometheus, ships that flew through space didn’t need to be aerodynamic since there was no resistance. Inside it reminded him a little of the insides of the ‘Puddle Jumpers’ but a lot more sophisticated. He couldn’t resist sliding in to the pilots seat and run his hands over the smooth control panel. At his touch things started to happen and he heard a gasp of surprise from the women standing behind him.
“Jack, this should not be happening.” She remarked, clearly puzzled. Jack felt smug for the first time since he’d been dragged in to this place.
It’s a gift.” He said glibly enjoying the fact that he’d disturbed Morgan Le Fay’s impenetrable air of calm.
“You must possess the gene.”
“Yousureyoubetcha! The Asgard kinda thought I was a bit special you know.” He just couldn’t help gloating a little. He found himself liking this descended Ancient woman, but, she did have a bit of a superior air about her.
“Which means, you could fly this ship, perhaps your presence here was not just a mere accident.” She mused out loud.
“Thought you guys already had a pilot lined up?” He was eyeing up an interesting looking symbol, something told him that was the doohickey that would open the Supergate.
“We had several volunteers, however, I think you appreciate that, whoever undertakes this task will risk incurring the wrath of the others. As I explained, even though we have taken human form, once the time shift device is deactivated, they will be able to monitor our actions. We knew that when we made the decision, that we are all risking punishment. However, as you are not of the Ascended Ancients, they may not bother to observe your actions.”
“Okay, I’ll do it.” As far as Jack was concerned, it was a given. If Daniel was going to engage in something reckless, then who better to watch his six. Besides, he couldn’t sit somewhere helplessly twiddling his thumbs while Daniel went off and did whatever it was he was going to do, and deep down, Jack knew that this time was going to be a whole lot different to his last attempt.
“Jack, I believe that this endeavour may have a significant chance of succeeding with your assistance.”
“Danny’s not gonna like it though.” He responded reflectively.
“Perhaps not, but he does also realise the gravity of the situation Jack.” She favoured this intriguing man with an assessing look. “Daniel trusts you, perhaps more than anyone, he will most likely resist the notion of you flying him to the Ori Stargate, but, he will also understand that it will decrease the likelihood of the others stepping in.”
Jack figured she was right. But Daniel could be one stubborn SOB. And for all the accusations that he could be overprotective of the younger man, Daniel could be just as bad when it came to those he cared about. Jack also figured that the level of Daniel’s resistance would be a good indication of exactly how risky this mission really was going to be.
Morgan was now convinced that Jack’s presence was not the accident she had first thought. It had been a concern to all of them that the others would be keeping an eye on them, to coin a human phrase. She allowed herself a small smile. The expressions these less advanced beings used were infectious.
“I guess we’d better go break the good news to Dr Strangelove then.”
Now he had her totally confused, who was this Dr Strangelove. Jack caught her enquiring expression.
“Err, it’s a human thing.” Jack mumbled. “It was a movie about doomsday devices, main character was this guy, Dr Strangelove.”
Morgan decided that these humans were a bewildering race. She found herself wishing she’d spent more time among them.
~~~~~
Daniel decided to take a break. Operating the device was extremely draining, and although there was some of Merlin with him, there wasn’t enough to help him out as much he had before. He glanced at the items he’d created. Not bad, he congratulated himself tiredly, a short rest and maybe some food, and that coffee like drink they had here, and he’d be ready to go again. Then, when he got to speak with Morgan, he’d make sure she’d find a way to send Jack somewhere far away where he’d be unable to interfere, and, more importantly, be safe.
TBC - hopefully soon!!
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