Storytime with Rachel F Hundred

Chapter 6

‘…and then you’ll greet the President…’

Jack tuned out the rest of Sergeant Harriman’s briefing. They’d barely arrived back at the base before the Sergeant had insisted on taking them through the details of the Presidential visit. Jack glanced down at the briefing pack and out of the window where Sergeant Siler and his team were making preparations to the gate room. Walter must have worked his socks off the whole weekend. He felt a twinge of guilt at taking the vacation. He couldn’t deny though that it had been a good two days and exactly what the SG1 team had needed. Their return had been tinged with sadness though; Teal’c had quietly announced that morning at breakfast his intention to as he had put it ‘take my leave of the Tau’ri.’ It had been emotional for everyone. He suspected even Teal’c had wiped away a tear or two. God knew what his actual departure was actually going to be like; it was scheduled for directly after the President’s visit.

‘…and then you take the lectern and make your speech.’ Sergeant Walter Harriman ticked off another item on his list.

‘You’re making a speech, sir?’

Jack jerked his attention back to the briefing and Sam’s amused comment. ‘I am.’

‘Really.’ Daniel said dryly. ‘You have it written already, I take it.’

‘I’ve got a few things in my head.’ Jack said defensively.

‘Yes but would you want to say them out loud?’ Daniel shot back.

Sam hastily turned her laugh into a cough as Teal’c schooled his features from showing the amusement that gleamed in his eyes.

‘I just need to write them down.’ Jack insisted.

‘Right.’ Daniel shook his head. He resigned himself to being woken up early to give Jack a hand with the speech.

‘Uh, sir, the President’s Chief of Staff felt that it would be appropriate for you to focus on a few things in your speech.’ Walter swallowed hard as Jack’s brown gaze snapped to him.

‘He did, did he?’ Jack muttered. Politicians. Always had to be something.

The Sergeant indicated the as yet unopened blue folder in front of the General. ‘The list is in your briefing pack.’

‘Thank you, Walter. I’ll take that under advisement.’

‘Yes, sir.’ Walter checked his list. ‘At the end of your speech, you should direct people to the commissary where the celebratory lunch will be held.’

‘That I can do.’ Jack leaned back in his chair. ‘What’s on the menu?’

‘It’s a buffet, sir. Chef finalised the details this morning and a full list of included items is also in your briefing pack.’

Jack flipped the blue folder open and shuffled to the right sheet of paper. His eyes widened at the dessert options. Pots of blue jello? He raised his eyes and met Sam’s across the table. He re-examined the list. A number of things on it were Sam’s favourites. It looked like Chef had a soft spot for the Colonel or maybe he, like everyone else on base, simply wanted to take care of one of their own knowing about her recent loss. Jack felt a warm glow. Some days he just loved the people he worked with.

‘So, the President will probably not stay for the whole lunch period which is scheduled to finish at fifteen-hundred.’ Walter concluded, ticking the last item on his checklist.

‘Excellent work, Walter.’ Jack said.

Walter risked another glance at the General and at the sincere look of gratitude felt his chest swell with a little bit of pride. ‘Thank you, sir.’

The rest of SG1 added their own words of praise and the Sergeant practically floated out of the briefing room as the General dismissed the gathering.

Daniel lingered behind as the others filed out. Sam was heading to her lab to catch up on the ZPM analysis. Teal’c had gone to pack up his room.

‘You need something, Daniel?’ Jack asked as he shoved his chair back and headed for his office.

‘Well, I was wondering whether you wanted to work on the speech now rather than early tomorrow morning.’ Daniel slouched in the office doorway and folded his arms over the briefing pack he held. ‘That way I might actually get a full night’s sleep before I meet the President tomorrow.’

‘I told ya, it’s under control.’

‘Yeah.’ Daniel pushed his glasses up his nose. ‘That’s what you said the last time.’

‘And the time before that if my memory serves.’

The heads of both men swivelled to the open door on the other side of the office at the Texan accent.

Jack grinned widely. ‘General Hammond, sir.’ Hammond entered the office fully and shook Jack’s outstretched hand enthusiastically.

‘Jack.’ His blue eyes smiled warmly at the other man before they shifted to smile just as warmly at the younger man standing in the other doorway. ‘Doctor Jackson.’

Daniel took a couple of steps forward to shake Hammond’s hand. ‘It’s good to see you.’

‘Likewise, son.’ Hammond smiled at both men.

‘You’re here for tomorrow’s ceremony.’ Daniel stated.

‘I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.’

Daniel gestured at the door. He figured Hammond would want to speak with Jack alone. ‘Well, I have some translations…it was good to see you.’

‘Please don’t go on my account.’ Hammond said. ‘Actually, your assessment of the situation I’m here to discuss would be appreciated.’

‘O-K.’ Daniel glanced at Jack and saw he was just confused.

‘If you could close the door…’

‘Oh.’ Daniel slipped the door to the briefing room shut as Hammond did the same with the door to the corridor.

‘This looks serious.’ Jack noted as Hammond indicated for him to sit down.

‘I’ve had a request from the Joint Chiefs, Jack.’ Hammond took the chair on the opposite side of the desk as Daniel leaned against the wall.

‘Oh?’ Jack picked a pen and twirled it through his fingers nervously.

‘The head of Area 51’s SG Research and Development department, Colonel Mayhew, resigned yesterday.’

‘So?’ Jack asked wondering how that affected him and his command.

‘He’s recommended Colonel Carter as his successor.’ Hammond tapped the arm of his chair; the only outward sign of his unease.

Jack folded his hands together around the pen; tried to keep his expression blank. ‘I see.’

‘The Joint Chiefs would like to approve the transfer.’ Hammond gestured at him. ‘From their perspective, a scientist with the Colonel’s abilities would never normally spend so much time out in the field; she’s too valuable an asset to risk.’

‘An asset?’

‘Yes, Jack, an asset.’ Hammond’s calm tone contrasted with Jack’s anger. ‘You and I both know in normal circumstances she would never have served in a frontline team. The Stargate programme provided her with a unique opportunity.’

‘They’ve left her in place until now so what’s changed?’ Daniel asked before Jack could reply.

Jack pointed his pen at Daniel. ‘What he said.’

‘It was believed that whilst the danger to the planet was high, Colonel Carter’s talents were best placed at this facility. However, the latest reports indicate that there is a low threat assessment at the present time.’

‘At the present time.’ Jack shot back. ‘We could have another Goa’uld, or Replicator, or God knows what, knocking on the gate tomorrow.’

‘I know that.’ Hammond sighed. ‘But you’re going to have to provide me with more than that for me to be able to refuse a transfer request at this level.’

‘It is a request though and not an order?’ Daniel checked.

Hammond nodded. ‘For the moment.’

Jack searched for a reply. ‘General, you know yourself that Carter’s just lost her father. She’s broken off her engagement. Teal’c’s leaving tomorrow. The last thing she needs right now is a transfer away from her support network and everything familiar to her.’

‘Is that your professional opinion?’ Hammond challenged.

Jack froze at the question. ‘My professional opinion, sir.’ He shot back. ‘As is my assessment that she is too valuable an asset,’ he spat the word out, ‘for the SGC to lose.’

‘I agree with Jack, General Hammond.’ Daniel said quietly.

Jack could have hugged Daniel at that moment but he kept his attention on Hammond. ‘Permission to speak freely, sir.’

Hammond nodded. ‘Go ahead.’

‘What the hell is going on?’

Hammond sighed. ‘As you know the SGC is considered to be a maverick organisation by some members of the Pentagon.’

‘Maverick?’ Daniel asked.

‘It’s felt that we don’t maintain the same level of discipline and order that the rest of the military adhere to.’

Jack frowned. ‘That’s just a crock of…’

‘Truth, Jack.’ Hammond inclined his head slightly. ‘If we did maintain the same level, you would never have made it to that chair. Hell, you’d probably be doing time in a jail cell right now with some of the stunts you’ve pulled.’

Jack winced. ‘We’re a unique organisation with unique challenges, sir…’

‘You don’t have to convince me of that, Jack.’ Hammond stabbed a finger on the top of the desk. ‘I helped build this place.’

‘Yes, you did, sir.’ Jack murmured recognising that what Hammond should have said was that he had built the place.

‘However, the Pentagon has a different opinion and the truth is, Jack, that the SGC had more leverage with them when Earth was continually under attack. Now that the Replicators have been vanquished, the Goa’uld, and in particular, Anubis, have been effectively neutralised as a threat especially with the Jaffa rebellion, there are some people who feel it’s time to flex their muscle and bring the SGC in line regardless of it’s unique mandate.’

‘So you’re saying because we did our jobs and got the results doing it our way, they’re going to come in and change everything?’ Daniel checked. ‘Is it me or does that not make any sense?’

‘I don’t think you’re wrong, son.’ Hammond said. ‘Truth is that some believe the ship-building programme should get greater priority than the Stargate at this point.’

‘Then why are you retiring? Why aren’t you staying to fight this?’ Jack asked.

‘If I thought it would do any good I’d stay but the truth is I know I won’t get through to them.’

‘But you think I would?’ Jack asked alluding to Hammond’s recommendation of him as his successor.

‘I think you have the practical field experience that even the Joint Chiefs would have a hard time arguing with, yes.’ Hammond said.

Jack sighed and threw down his pen. ‘I can’t take the job.’

‘Why not?’

‘Seriously, sir? Let’s face it; a week in a desk job dealing with the Joint Chiefs and I would be facing a court martial.’ Jack said.

Hammond laughed. Jack’s sense of humour was one of the reasons he just downright liked the other man so much. ‘But that’s not the reason why you’re turning it down?’ He asked perceptively.

‘Not the complete reason, no.’ Jack admitted without expanding further.

Hammond suspected that Jack’s feelings for a certain blonde Colonel were factoring somewhere in the mix but he determined this was one of those times when it was better not to ask. ‘Well, I can’t say I’m not disappointed with your decision.’

‘Ah come on, General, you have to have a better candidate than me waiting in the wings.’ Jack protested unconsciously picking up the pen again. He had a lot of respect for Hammond and hated the fact that he was disappointing the other man.

‘You’d be surprised, Jack, at how few candidates there are with your unique combination of skills and experiences, not to mention familiarity with the uniqueness of this facility.’ Hammond sighed.

Daniel saved Jack from having to make a reply. ‘So, how do we get the Joint Chiefs to back off transferring Sam?’

Hammond looked at Jack. ‘Do you have any medical evidence to back up your command perspective on her state of mind?’

‘No.’ Jack said. ‘Our new CMO arrives tomorrow though and I could order Carter to take a full physical and psych evaluation.’

‘Do it. I’ll delay my decision to the Joint Chiefs until I receive the medical report.’ Hammond said. ‘But if the results don’t back up your own position, Jack, it’s going to be difficult to keep her at the SGC as much as I don’t want to see her transferred either.’

Jack nodded. ‘I understand, sir.’

Hammond got to his feet and Jack automatically rose to his. ‘Well, it’s been a tiring day. I’m going to head to the VIP room Walter set up for me. I’ll see you both tomorrow for the ceremony.’

‘Yes, General.’ Jack slumped back into his chair. He sighed and rubbed his hands furiously through his short crop of grey hair. Carter just being transferred because of military politics…now there was a possibility he hadn’t considered.

Chapter 7

‘You OK?’

Daniel’s quiet question got Jack’s attention. ‘Yeah.’ He sighed again. ‘Just…’ Jack gestured. ‘I’d better go talk to her.’ He shoved his chair back.

‘I’ll come with you.’ Daniel said.

The SGC was a hive of activity as they made their way through the corridors taking the familiar and well worn path from Jack’s office to Carter’s lab. She was at her computer sipping on coffee and examining reams of what appeared to be gobbledegook.

Jack knocked on the door. ‘You have a minute, Carter?’

‘Yes, sir. Of course.’ She swivelled in her chair surprised to see him and Daniel both enter the room and felt a quiver of nervousness at the way Jack closed the door and the strange expressions on their faces. She waved at the monitor behind her. ‘I was just reviewing the initial spectral analysis of the ZPM.’

‘Fascinating.’ Jack said insincerely. He cut to the reason for their visit. ‘I just got a visit from Hammond.’

‘Oh?’

Jack jumped up on the lab table next to her as Daniel hovered close by. ‘He’s received a transfer request from the Joint Chiefs.’ He met her confused eyes. ‘For you.’

‘Me?’ The blue eyes widened.

Jack nodded. ‘Apparently, the head of Area 51’s SG R&D division is recommending you as his replacement.’

‘He is? Wow.’ Sam shook her head. ‘That’s incredible.’

‘It is?’ Jack hadn’t been sure what her response was going to be but he hadn’t expected those exact words. To say he was taken aback was an understatement.

‘I mean, I don’t want the job, sir,’ Sam hastily assured him, ‘but it’s still quite an honour to be recommended.’

‘You’re sure you don’t want the job? Because you seemed kinda excited for a moment there.’ Jack said surprised at how even his voice was.

‘I don’t want the job.’ Sam repeated. ‘I love my work at the SGC and I love commanding SG1. Why would I want to give that up?’ She stilled. ‘It is just a request, isn’t it, I can turn it down?’ Her voice was a little panicked and it was that more than anything that reassured him.

Jack gestured. ‘Well, the request technically went to Hammond…’

‘So he’s turning it down?’ Sam checked.

‘He’s trying to, Carter, but we’re going to need to give him better ammunition or his refusal will get shot down in flames and it will end up as an order.’ Jack said bluntly.

Daniel explained about the politics and Sam nodded thoughtfully. ‘What do we need to do, sir?’ Sam asked.

‘I’ve told Hammond that it’s my professional opinion that you need to maintain your support network right now.’ Jack tried not to squirm as her eyes narrowed on him. ‘I’m ordering you to take a full physical and psych evaluation with our new CMO.’

Sam frowned. ‘You told him I was on the edge of a breakdown?’

‘We didn’t say that exactly.’ Jack denied.

‘What exactly did you say?’

Jack looked at Daniel and indicated he should speak.

Daniel cleared his throat. ‘We may have, might have, just implied that if he didn’t want to risk your health then you shouldn’t be transferred.’

‘Oh well, that’s a whole lot better.’ Sam retorted.

‘Ammunition, Carter.’ Jack shot back. ‘Who’s the one person who can overrule an officer of any rank in regards to health matters?’

‘The CMO…’ Sam answered.

‘So?’ Jack asked waiting for her to make the connection.

‘So our CMO could file a medical report recommending or countermanding a transfer order particularly if she feels it would be detrimental to my health.’ Sam chewed her lip. She still wasn’t certain she liked the idea of that being on her record. ‘Maybe there’s a different way to approach this, sir.’

‘I’m open to suggestions, Carter.’ Jack said.

‘I know Colonel Mayhew. Maybe I can call him and get him to retract the recommendation.’ Sam suggested.

‘That might work.’ Daniel said.

Jack gestured at the phone. ‘So, what are you waiting for?’

Sam slid of the stool with an exasperated sigh and crossed to the phone. She picked it up and dialled the operator number at Nellis. ‘You do realise he’s probably not even in the office at this time.’

‘Doesn’t hurt to try, Carter.’ Jack said folding his arms.

‘Oh hello. Yes, please can you put me through to Colonel Mayhew’s office? Thank you.’ Sam said as the operator picked up at the other end. The phone rang; once, twice. It would go to his messaging service on the fourth ring, she mused. She straightened suddenly as the phone was picked up.

‘Colonel Mayhew.’

Sam recognised the brisk tone of the outgoing Area 51 SG R&D commander immediately. ‘Colonel Mayhew, sir. This is Colonel Carter. I hope I’m not calling too late, sir.’

‘Not at all, Colonel. What can I do for you?’

‘I wanted to thank you for your recommendation, sir and to ask…’

‘Hold on a moment, Colonel Carter. What recommendation are you talking about?’

Sam turned her back on Jack and Daniel who were both in their own way making gestures for her to get to the point.

‘The recommendation that I succeed you, sir.’

There was a brief silence before Mayhew cleared his throat. ‘Colonel, I think there’s been a misunderstanding. I recommended my current deputy Lieutenant Colonel Harding to succeed me.’

‘Oh.’ Sam wondered if it was possible to feel anymore embarrassed than she was right at that moment. Her brow creased with confusion. Jack or Daniel singularly getting the wrong impression she could understand but both of them? It took her a moment to realise Mayhew had continued talking.

‘…I considered you but to be frank, Colonel, I felt that you at this point in time your skills would be better employed in lab work and progressing projects rather than in the pure management of them. However, if you want to transfer here I have several projects that have your name written all over them…’

‘Thank you, sir, but I’m very happy at the SGC.’

‘That’s what I thought.’ Mayhew cleared his throat. ‘Can I ask where you got your information, Colonel?’

‘From my chain of command via General Hammond, sir. He’s currently reviewing the transfer request from the Joint Chiefs.’

‘I see. Perhaps I should speak with him.’

‘I think he would appreciate it, sir. He’s currently on base here at the SGC.’

‘I’ll make the call.’ Mayhew sighed. ‘Off the record, Sam?’

‘Of course, sir.’

‘There’re a lot of rumours circulating about what the Pentagon has in mind for the future of the SGC and the Stargate programme. A lot of nasty political manoeuvring going on and it sounds like they’ve put you right in the middle of it. Watch your back.’

‘Yes, sir.’

‘Good night, Sam.’

‘Thank you, sir. Good night.’

The phone went dead and Sam hung up thoughtfully. She tapped a finger against the receiver.

‘Well?’ Jack asked impatiently.

She turned to see both men looking at her anxiously. She crossed her arms over the black t-shirt she wore and sat back down on the stool. ‘Mayhew didn’t recommend me.’

Jack’s eyebrows shot up. ‘He didn’t?’

She shook her head.

Daniel frowned and adjusted his glasses. ‘But if he didn’t recommend you then why would General Hammond think that he did?’

‘He hinted off the record that it might have something to do with the Pentagon’s plans for the future of the SGC.’ She couldn’t help the shiver that coursed down her spine. ‘He warned me to watch my back.’

‘Good advice.’ Jack said. ‘I’d better go tell Hammond.’

‘Colonel Mayhew was going to call him, sir.’ Sam said.

Jack nodded. He seemed to hesitate before he continued. ‘I think you should go ahead with the physical and psych exam. Knowing that you weren’t Mayhew’s recommendation isn’t going to be enough to deny the request. We need as much ammunition as we can get.’

Sam looked at him unhappily. ‘What if the report gives me a clean bill of health?’ She couldn’t believe it would say otherwise; she was coping just fine.

‘Then we’ll think of something else, Carter. That’s what we do.’ He sighed. ‘Look, just be honest with your answers and let’s see what the report says. Frankly, given what you’ve been through, I should have followed procedure and ordered an evaluation days ago anyway.’

Sam nodded dejectedly. ‘Yes, sir.’

Jack jumped down from the table; there was nothing else to say. ‘I’ll meet you guys later for some dinner?’

‘Sure.’ Sam and Daniel answered in unison as he disappeared through the door.

Daniel leaned back against the lab table. ‘You alright with all this?’

‘Not really.’ Sam admitted. She tried a smile. ‘I will be though.’

‘Hang in there, Sam.’ Daniel rubbed her arm comfortingly.

‘Thanks, Daniel.’ She gestured at the screen of figures behind her. ‘I’d better get back to it.’

Daniel nodded. It was how Sam dealt with things; by losing herself in calculations and equations just like he lost himself in translations and artefacts. He headed to Teal’c’s quarters. Teal’c might be leaving but it didn’t seem right that he was the only member of the team unaware of the evening’s events. He rapped briskly on the door and opened it at Teal’c’s call to enter.

‘Daniel Jackson.’ Teal’c’s eyes warmed at the sight of his friend.

‘Teal’c.’ Daniel gestured. ‘You have a minute?’

Teal’c nodded and Daniel stepped into the room closing the door behind him. The archaeologist’s eyes widened at the half-filled chest and the already neatly stacked boxes.

‘Wow. You’ve been busy.’

‘I have accumulated many things since my arrival here.’ Teal’c noted.

‘Moving always does that.’ Daniel said vaguely. He caught Teal’c questioning head tilt. ‘When we move places it always seems to reveal items from the past that we had forgotten we even owned.’

‘I have not forgotten any of the items that I own.’ Teal’c said firmly.

Daniel smiled. ‘I guess it’s a human thing.’ He gestured for Teal’c to sit and they both took places on the floor sitting cross-legged. Teal’c listened patiently as Daniel filled him in on Hammond’s visit and what had happened with Sam in the lab.

‘This is indeed concerning, Daniel Jackson.’ Teal’c murmured.

‘You know I just don’t get how Sam transferring to Area 51 fits in.’

‘Colonel Carter has a unique understanding of the Stargate and its technology.’ Teal’c pointed out. ‘If she is removed from the programme it will be weakened by her absence.’

Daniel sighed. ‘Because she’s not around to make the SGC look good.’

‘I agree with your assessment, Daniel Jackson. This appears to be a stratagem to weaken the position of the current SGC and its leaders.’

‘But why?’ Daniel asked plaintively.

‘That I do not know.’ Teal’c replied. ‘But I have often observed that there are many in your military and government who do not approve of the Stargate programme and who wish it was run differently.’

‘But I thought we’d gotten rid of the rogue elements when we cleaned up the NID.’

‘It is often the case that when one evil is destroyed, another rises to take its place.’ Teal’c said.

‘Thanks, Teal’c.’ Daniel said dryly. ‘That’s really…comforting.’ He shoved his hands through his hair before gesturing angrily. ‘This is just so frustrating. I mean we finally get rid of Anubis, force the remaining Goa’uld to run for the hills and deal with the replicators and…and it’s like we’re getting punished for it.’

‘General Hammond was correct when he stated that the SGC had more power when Earth was under attack.’ Teal’c surmised. ‘While such threats as Anubis and the replicators existed those wishing to seek changes to the SGC were unable to do so for fear of weakening the planet’s defences in its time of crisis.’

‘And now we’re safe they’ve finally got an opportunity?’ Daniel said. ‘As Jack would say that just sucks.’ He shook his head and took his glasses off to rub at his eyes. ‘It wouldn’t surprise me if we ended up with another Bauer in charge.’

Teal’c raised an eyebrow. The temporary assignment of General Bauer, a hardliner and stickler for military protocol, as the SGC commander a few years previously had not been a success. ‘That would not be advisable, Daniel Jackson.’ His eyes suddenly focused completely on his friend. ‘Would O’Neill not remain in place while such a threat to the SGC existed?’

‘Yes.’ Daniel sighed. ‘I guess he would.’ Which means Jack wouldn’t retire, he thought, and there was no chance that Jack and Sam would get together. He shook his head, wrenched his mind back to the problem at hand. ‘There’s still a chance whoever succeeds Hammond could be a hard-ass and let’s not forget how long Jack lasted with Bauer.’

‘Presumably General Hammond is able to name his successor if he was able to offer O’Neill the position.’

‘Maybe but I think the President likes Jack so it would have been made it difficult for the Joint Chiefs to have refused. Plus the Pentagon agreed that Jack was the best candidate when he was placed in charge of the SGC so they’d look pretty foolish if they seemed to change their opinion now.’ Daniel murmured. He got to his feet and began pacing. ‘When Hayes initially took over he believed that it was wrong for the SGC to be solely in the hands of the US military. Why?’ He didn’t wait for Teal’c to answer but supplied it himself. ‘He didn’t agree with the programme being led by the military and wanted to give it a friendlier face in case the existence of the programme would be revealed to the public.’

‘He appointed Doctor Elizabeth Weir to run the SGC.’ Teal’c supplied.

‘Yes, he appointed a civilian to run the SGC.’ Daniel pointed at him. He continued pacing. ‘Until such time as Elizabeth recommended that Jack would be the ideal candidate to lead the SGC in the eyes of the IOA and that’s important!’ Daniel whirled to face Teal’c. ‘That’s it! I think I know how to fix this.’ He started to back out of the room and beamed at his friend. ‘Thanks, Teal’c.’

‘I am pleased to have been of assistance, Daniel Jackson.’ Teal’c murmured unsure exactly how he had helped. ‘Do you require any further…’

‘No, no.’ Daniel called over his shoulder as he left the room. ‘I have to go speak with General Hammond.’

He marched down to the VIP quarters and after checking which room Hammond was occupying knocked on the door.

Hammond opened it. He’d discarded his jacket and tie, had rolled up his shirt sleeves and Daniel could see that he’d interrupted the General’s meal.

‘I’m sorry, General Hammond, but I need to speak with you urgently.’

Hammond’s puzzled eyes regarded Daniel as he gestured for the younger man to enter. He closed the door. ‘What can I do for you?’

Daniel turned to face Hammond and the General almost took a step back at the fierce look on the other man’s face. ‘I know how to save the SGC.’

Hammond took in the intelligence and excitement that gleamed from the younger man’s eyes; the same look that had preceded many a plan that had saved the planet. He felt his own diminished hope rising and nodded. ‘I’m listening, son.’

Chapter 8

‘Jack, I’m done with the revisions on your speech…’ Daniel stumbled to a halt at the sight of the Amerasian woman sat in Jack’s office. Thirty-something, he catalogued. Not military given the simple smart grey suit with a cream blouse. Her brown almost black hair was pinned back in a practical chignon. ‘You’re not Jack.’

‘I hope not.’ She flashed a smile at him and her almond-shaped brown eyes lit up.

‘I’m sorry.’ Daniel shuffled the folders he held and stretched out a hand. ‘I’m Daniel Jackson.’

She rose to her feet gracefully and shook his hand. ‘I’m Doctor Carolyn Lam.’

‘I’m a doctor too. Archaeology.’

‘I’m a doctor, doctor.’ Carolyn said. ‘A medical doctor.’

‘Oh. Oh, you must be the new CMO?’ Daniel let go of her hand. ‘I think Jack mentioned you were starting today.’

‘It’s quite a first day.’ Carolyn Lam wished fervently for her lab coat so she could have something to do with her hands. She settled for placing them behind her back.

‘Yeah. I imagine finding out the President’s coming to visit on the same day you start is a bit…’

‘Terrifying.’ Carolyn supplied.

‘Daniel, there you are. I’ve been looking for you everywhere.’ Jack barrelled into his office only seeing the archaeologist before his brown eyes landed on the woman standing next to him. ‘Carolyn. You’re here already.’ He gave a delighted smile. ‘Welcome to the mad house.’ He turned back to his friend. ‘Daniel, do you have the…’

‘Revisions.’ Daniel handed him the folder.

‘Thank you, thank you, thank you.’ Jack grasped the folder like a lifeline before seeming to realise the tableau he’d interrupted. ‘Oh, did you two kids introduce yourselves?’

Daniel nodded. ”I’ll leave you to it.’ He had hoped to find Jack alone; their session on the speech early in the morning hadn’t been conducive to telling Jack about his conversation with Hammond, a conversation that had turned into a planning session that had meant he’d missed dinner with his team-mates. It looked like he wasn’t going to get any time alone with Jack before the President arrived to warn him of the plan. He repressed the urge to sigh. ‘It was nice meeting you, Doctor Lam.’

‘Carolyn, please.’ She said as they shook hands again.

‘Oh you two should definitely be on a first name basis.’ Jack joked. ‘Daniel spends a lot of time in the infirmary.’

‘Thanks, Jack.’

‘My pleasure, Daniel.’ Jack waved him out of his office with the folder. ‘And thanks for this.’

‘Yeah, I’m adding it to the list.’ Daniel said over his shoulder.

‘What list?’ Jack called as he disappeared from sight.

Carolyn Lam looked up at him with an expression that was a mixture of curiosity and bemusement.

‘Sorry, Carolyn,’ Jack closed the open office door to the corridor and glanced over to make sure the briefing room entrance was also shut. ‘It’s been kind of a crazy day.’

‘It’s only oh-eight-hundred.’ Carolyn noted.

‘President’s visiting,’ Jack explained blithely, ‘everybody was up early.’ It had been oh-five-hundred when he’d woken Daniel to ask for help with the speech. He gestured for her to take a seat. ‘How’re you? How’s Hank? And your Mom?’

‘Mom’s fine. You probably know better than me how Dad is and I’m, well, to be honest, I’m a little nervous.’

Jack nodded. ‘You’re going to be great, Carolyn.’

‘I managed to read through most of the medical files that you sent me.’ She shook her head. ‘You weren’t kidding about the strange diseases were you? Some of the stuff your previous medical officers have had to deal with, it’s mind-boggling.’

‘You’re still interested though, right?’ Jack asked.

‘You kidding?’ Carolyn smiled. ‘I can’t wait to get started.’ Her eyes shone brightly at him. ‘I can’t thank you enough for the opportunity.’

Jack shrugged away her gratitude. ‘I’m glad I finally convinced you to take the job. You would have made my life a lot easier if you’d accepted it last year.’

She sighed. ‘I know but you’ve known me a long time…’

‘Since you were a little girl in pig-tails when I served with your father.’ Jack commented.

‘And you know how I feel about the military.’ She finished. ‘If it was anyone else but you in charge, General…’

‘Well, I’m glad you changed your mind.’ Jack sobered. ‘I know you’ll want time to speak with your staff, see the infirmary, get settled in and all but I have a pressing evaluation that I need you to schedule.’

‘Oh?’ Carolyn’s interest perked up at his serious tone.

‘I’ve ordered Colonel Carter to report to you for a full physical and psych evaluation.’ Jack explained.

‘Colonel Carter.’ Carolyn mentally reviewed the personnel files she’d received; Carter was the commander of the SG1 team and the General’s former team-mate. She was looking forward to meeting the other woman. ‘She recently lost her father right?’

Jack nodded. He gestured at her. ‘It’s pretty much standard procedure but I am going to need your report ASAP and I’d like you to copy it directly to General Hammond. Specifically we need you to comment on whether a transfer from her current position would be appropriate at this time.’

Carolyn regarded him for a long moment. ‘And if my report recommends that she can be transferred?’

‘Then that’s what it will recommend.’ Jack said simply.

Carolyn nodded. ‘OK. I’ll schedule the evaluation for first thing tomorrow.’

‘Good.’ Jack rose. ‘I’ll get someone to show you to the infirmary. This place is a bit of a maze until you get used to it.’

Carolyn nodded appreciatively and felt a twang of sympathy as a dozen officers descended on the General’s office as the SF showed her back to the elevator. A couple of hours later with her short team talk over and her rounds of the current patient roster completed, she decided to go in search of Colonel Carter to schedule the eval personally.

She found the lab where she was assured the Colonel would be on her third attempt. She took a moment to examine the other woman without her being aware of her presence, acknowledging to herself that she was already beginning the evaluation. The Colonel was more beautiful in person than her photo and strangely, she suited the dress blues of her Air Force uniform. But even in the dim lighting of the lab, the doctor in her was already noting how loose the uniform seemed, the vague hint of shadows under the Colonel’s eyes and the wan complexion. She wasn’t sleeping, maybe not eating, Carolyn surmised. It wasn’t unusual during the grieving process.

Carolyn rapped sharply on the open door and found herself pinned by two very startled, very blue eyes. ‘Hi.’

Sam blinked as though to reassure herself she wasn’t imagining the Amerasian woman in a white lab coat standing in her doorway. ‘Hi.’

‘I’m Doctor Carolyn Lam.’ Carolyn entered quickly and held out her hand to the blonde Colonel.

‘Lieutenant Colonel Samantha Carter.’ Sam shook hands a little nervously. She had been intending to report to the infirmary after the President’s visit; it looked like the new doctor had beaten her to it.

‘I understand you’re also a doctor of theoretical astrophysics?’ Carolyn checked.

‘Yes, I am.’ Sam confirmed.

‘Do you prefer Colonel or Doctor?’

‘I prefer Colonel as my formal salutation.’ Sam said and hearing how stiffly she’d phrased her reply, smiled to soften the words. ‘But otherwise, please call me Sam.’

‘Thank you, and please call me Carolyn.’

Sam’s smile widened a little at the friendly warmth the other woman exuded. She hadn’t felt this comfortable with a doctor since…since Janet. Her smile fell away suddenly and she looked down at the file she was reading to regain her control before she raised her eyes back to the doctor.

Carolyn noted the behaviour and mentally filed it away. She was getting a clearer idea why the General had ordered the evaluation. ‘As much as I would love to claim this was purely a personal visit, I’m afraid I do have an agenda; General O’Neill wanted me to schedule a full evaluation with you.’

‘I intended to stop by the infirmary after the President’s visit.’ Sam hurried to explain.

‘I was thinking tomorrow morning?’ Carolyn suggested. ‘I’d like to review your file. I recall you have some anomalies in your blood work.’

‘That’s right. I have a protein marker left after my experience as a host for a Tok’ra symbiote called Jolinar.’ Sam explained. ‘I’d be happy to explain it to you if we could do the eval today.’

Carolyn nodded slowly. ‘Well, General O’Neill did say he wanted the report ASAP.’ She mentally checked her schedule. ‘Sixteen hundred?’

‘Sixteen hundred. I’ll be there.’ Sam confirmed with relief. The sooner they got the damned thing out of the way the better. Her eyes flickered to the clock. ‘Uh-oh. We’d better get upstairs to welcome the President.’

‘Am I meant to be doing that?’ Carolyn checked a little panicked.

‘You’re the CMO.’ Sam said. She assumed the CMO would be in the welcome line-up. ‘Come on, I’ll show you the way.’

‘This is a hell of a first day.’ Carolyn mumbled as they got in the elevator. ‘Is it always like this?’

‘Pretty much.’ Sam said. ‘You’ll get used to it.’

‘I…uh…wanted to offer my condolences on your loss.’ Carolyn said a little hesitantly.

She felt the Colonel stiffen beside her. ‘Thank you.’

‘I believe our fathers served together.’ Carolyn said.

Sam’s eyes snapped back to the doctor. ‘Your father’s military?’

‘Actually he’s another Air Force General. You’ve probably have heard of him. Hank Landry?’

‘You’re General Landry’s daughter?’

Carolyn nodded.

‘Wow.’ Sam shook her head. ‘So I guess you’re another military brat.’

‘Not quite.’ Carolyn admitted. ‘My parents broke up when I was young.’

The elevator doors opened before Sam could reply and they hurried into the next elevator which took them to the entrance of the facility where there was already a line of people waiting along with an honour guard. Carolyn noticed members of the Secret Service were also in place as they all waited for the President’s car to arrive. She followed Sam to the top of the line.

General O’Neill seemed to be having problems with his tie and Doctor Jackson was trying to fix it.

‘Will you just stand still?’ Daniel muttered. ‘I can’t believe you got to be General without knowing how to get your tie right.’

‘You’re not doing it right.’ Jack complained.

‘Colonel Carter has arrived. Perhaps she can assist you O’Neill.’ Teal’c said. He was in his good Jaffa robes having decided to eschew Earth dress for the occasion.

Jack’s eyes landed on Sam with relief. ‘Carter, can you give me a hand here?’

‘Of course, sir.’ She nudged Daniel who relinquished his place.

It only took Sam two seconds to fix the problem.

‘How do you do that?’ Daniel asked.

‘It’s just a question of physics.’ Sam murmured as she stepped back and Jack smiled at her gratefully.

‘Physics?’ Daniel repeated.

‘And years of doing my Dad’s tie.’ Sam admitted.

Carolyn saw the way all three men automatically inched closer to the Colonel supportively. They were all worried about her, she realised, not just the General, and yet with the presence of the rest of her team the Colonel seemed…calmer, more confident. The sound of an approaching car prevented any further conversation.

‘Places, kids.’ Jack muttered.

Carolyn found herself ushered into place and by the time the President’s car drew up they were all neatly in position. It was a military thing, Carolyn guessed.

The President was the first man out of the limo. He was dressed in a formal three-piece dark grey suit with a silk blue tie. His mop of grey hair was swept back from his well-worn face and his keenly intelligent blue eyes took in the waiting line with satisfaction. Carolyn smiled at the second man out of the car. General George Hammond. She was delighted when his blue eyes landed on her and he gave her a small smile of acknowledgement as he took his place beside the President. She jolted a little as there was a yell to come to attention.

‘General O’Neill.’ President Henry Hayes returned the brisk salute shook Jack’s hand firmly. ‘It’s good to see you again.’

‘Likewise, sir.’ Jack’s smile was genuine. He actually really liked Hayes; for a politician the other man was a stand-up guy. ‘You remember the SG1 team? Lieutenant Colonel Samantha Carter.’

Another salute; another handshake. ‘Of course. A pleasure as always Colonel Carter.’

‘Thank you, sir.’ Sam replied.

‘Doctor Daniel Jackson.’ Jack continued as they moved down the line.

‘Good to see you again, Doctor Jackson.’ Hayes shook hands with the archaeologist.

‘Mr President.’ Daniel inclined his head slightly.

‘And Teal’c.’

Teal’c bowed his head solemnly and Hayes followed the gesture a little awkwardly. ‘Teal’c. Let me congratulate you on your victory at Dakara and the success of the Jaffa rebellion.’ He figured it would only be a matter of time before he would be speaking to the Jaffa on an equal basis. By all accounts, it seemed everyone expected Teal’c to lead the new Free Jaffa nation.

‘Thank you, Mr President,’ Teal’c said, ‘it would never have been possible without the help of our friends of the Tau’ri.’

‘I’m hoping we have an opportunity today to discuss with you how best we can help your people going forward.’ Hayes replied.

‘That would be greatly appreciated, Mr President.’ Teal’c’s expression revealed nothing of his pleasure in the offer.

‘And this is our new CMO, Doctor Carolyn Lam.’ Jack winked at her as Carolyn reached forward to shake the President’s hand.

‘I understand this is your first day?’ Hayes smiled sympathetically.

‘Yes, sir.’ Carolyn replied.

‘Well, good luck with the new job, Doctor.’

‘Thank you, sir.’ She breathed out as Jack moved on further down the line introducing Sergeant Harriman, Sergeant Siler, more division heads before they ran out of people and headed into the base.

Carolyn was with the rest of the SG1 team as they made their way back into the bowels of the mountain. She stood back, happy to watch as the three team members speculated on whether Jack would stick to his speech. They weren’t exclusive either, Daniel pulled Siler into the discussion; the Colonel pulled in Doctor Lee. She figured if they had known her better she would have been included, as it was one of them would turn and smile at her occasionally to make sure she didn’t feel left out. She was surprised at the sense of loss as she stepped off at the infirmary level; she had enjoyed the camaraderie. She looked back at the closed doors of the elevator thoughtfully before she headed for her office. According to Sergeant Harriman she wasn’t needed until the speech in the gate room which gave her just enough time to review Colonel Carter’s file.

Chapter 9

The door was barely closed on Jack’s office when the President unbuttoned his jacket and sat down with a sigh of relief. Jack handed Hayes a cup of coffee before he took his own seat and picked up his own delicate china cup nervously.

‘So,’ Hayes leaned forward and made eye contact, ‘I have to tell ya, Jack that George told me your decision already.’

Jack swallowed in surprise. ‘He did?’

Hayes kept the eye contact. ‘He also told me the plan for you retiring and running the SGC as a civilian.’

Jack almost choked on his coffee. He set the cup back down, tried to act blasé. Had he had a stroke and forgotten telling Hammond he wanted to retire? ‘Oh that plan and here I had a whole speech prepared.’ He joked to cover his shock.

‘I think it’s a great idea.’ Hayes said.

‘You do?’ Jack stared at the President.

‘Well, as George explained refreshing the senior military chain of command here at the base and at the Homeworld office may help to satisfy the Joint Chiefs in regards to some of the perceived disciplinary problems.’

‘Yes, there’s that.’ Jack said bemused.

‘But with you in place as a civilian leader we retain your skills and experiences and your understanding of how this operation needs to run. It’ll certainly keep the IOA happy.’ Hayes leaned back. ‘I also agree with the suggestion that your new civilian position would report directly to me and would be the lead for the SGC as opposed to the senior military position. It brings the SGC back in line with what I originally intended.’ He grinned. ‘I have to admit it, Jack, you’ve all come up with a heck of a solution. I really think this idea is the right plan for the SGC going forward.’

Jack blinked at him. ‘I’m sorry, sir. It could be the early start this morning but did you just agree that I’ll retire but remain at the SGC as a civilian leader with a direct reporting structure to you? And that you think this is a good idea?’

‘That’s right.’ Hayes said cheerfully. ‘Like I said, George explained the plan to me this morning.’ He peered at the General across the table from him. ‘Are you OK, Jack, you seem a little shell-shocked?’

‘I’m fine, sir.’ Jack said trying to recover from the feeling that he’d stepped into an alternate reality somewhere between the elevator and his office.

‘Good because there’s a lot of work to do.’ Hayes said. ‘It’s going to take time to find the right candidates for the new senior military position here and obviously George’s replacement. I’m sure you’ll have recommendations as will the Joint Chiefs but I am giving final approval to George. I agree with Doctor Jackson’s argument that George is best placed to understand the right mix of personality and military discipline required in both positions.’

Jack blinked at the President; had he just said Doctor Jackson’s argument?

‘Until George makes his decisions on the candidates,’ Hayes continued, ‘you’ll remain on active duty. You should know I’ve already made a call to the Joint Chiefs this morning to inform them of the restructuring plan.’ He smiled. ‘It came as something of a shock to them.’

‘I’m sure it did, sir.’ Jack would have paid money to have witnessed their reaction to the news.

‘I’ve also informed them that while I don’t usually interfere with individual assignments, I am supporting George’s refusal of their transfer request regarding Colonel Carter. The restructuring will require the knowledge and experience of your senior staff especially one with specialist expertise in the Stargate.’

‘Thank you, sir.’ Jack said.

‘Your retirement will become official once I’m convinced we have everything in place to make the new structure a success. I’m sure there’s a ton of procedures that will need revision.’

‘We’ll get right on it.’ Jack confirmed.

‘Good.’ Hayes nodded in satisfaction. ‘So, tell me, what else has been happening here since the last time you guys saved the world?’ He asked moving the conversation on.

Jack sighed in relief and began his usual report. A brief knock on the door sometime later had both men rising to their feet.

‘I guess it’s speech time.’ Hayes murmured looking at his watch. ‘Thanks for the update, Jack.’

‘My pleasure, Mr President.’

They stepped out into the briefing area and were quickly hurried down the stairs to the gate room. It was filled with most of the squadron and the civilian personnel; a few personnel remained in place to ensure the base security was maintained. There was a certain degree of pomp and ceremony as the President walked up the ramp and took his place at the lectern with the Stargate providing a dramatic backdrop.

Jack took his place by Hammond who carefully avoided Jack’s eyes as the President began his speech.

‘I don’t often get the opportunity to come out here as much as I’d like,’ Hayes began, ‘not only because I love to see the Stargate in action and wonder at the technology that has made our journey into the stars possible or to see first hand some of the strange discoveries I read avidly in your mission reports.’ There was a smattering of laughter. ‘But because it is too rare that I can openly recognise the achievements of this facility and the incredible job that it does in protecting Earth while at the same time accelerating the development of the entire human race. Each and everyone of you plays an important role in your success and I have nothing but praise and amazement for your continued ability to provide us with an effective first line of defence and to sustain alliances that will hopefully continue to benefit our planet for a long time to come.’ He paused and looked around the room. ‘For your recent achievements, on behalf of myself and every citizen of this planet, I thank you.’

Hayes accepted the applause and whoops before he stepped aside with a wave to let Jack take the stand.

Jack kept a smile fixed to his face as he took the lectern and shuffled the papers so his own speech sat before him. God, he hated public speaking. Maybe he’d get lucky and the Asgard would beam him out before he actually began.

There was an expectant silence in the room.

Crap, Jack thought, no Asgard. He cleared his throat. ‘I’d firstly like to thank the President for his words and for honouring us once again with a personal visit. It is our pleasure and privilege to serve…’ he settled into the speech happily recalling from memory the lines Daniel had forced him to learn that morning so they rolled off his tongue naturally. ‘And finally, I’d like to remind everyone that we have a special celebratory lunch today in the commissary. And finally, finally,’ he noticed Daniel’s surprise as he changed the wording, ‘I’d like to add my own personal thanks to everyone here for their continued support and hard work. You folks are truly the best. Thank you.’

There was another round of applause and whooping before Jack ushered the President down the ramp and out of the gate room. He vaguely heard the yell as the squadron was dismissed behind them. The commissary had been rearranged for the Presidential visit and its small area was soon packed. Hayes stayed longer than they expected and luncheon was almost over before Jack finally escorted him back up to the surface with Hammond.

‘As always a pleasure, Jack.’ Hayes shook his hand, returned the salute and turned to Hammond. Another salute and a handshake. ‘I’ll see you back in Washington, George.’

‘Yes sir.’ Hammond agreed. He and Jack stepped back as the President disappeared into his limo and the convoy of vehicles drove away.

‘I guess we should get back to the party.’ Hammond noted.

Jack waited until they were alone in the elevator before he stuck his hands in his pockets and glanced at the two star General beside him. ‘So…you’ll forgive me sir but when exactly did we discuss my plan to retire and run the SGC as a civilian?’

Hammond smiled at him. ‘Our apologies, Jack. Daniel and I only put the finishing touches on the plan this morning before I left to meet Air Force One and there was no time to discuss it with you before you saw the President. Daniel did mention you had briefly discussed the idea with him before?’

‘In passing.’ Jack said trying for a light tone.

‘He’s a clever man, Jack.’ Hammond said. ‘It’s a good plan. The Pentagon’s power will be restricted but they get new personnel here. You remain leading the SGC and the President’s happy.’

‘That’s Daniel.’ Jack murmured. ‘He’s the best at this stuff.’

‘That he is.’ Hammond smiled.

Jack shook his head. Trust Daniel to come through for them; he always did as did the man in front of him.

‘Off the record, Jack?’ Hammond said quietly.

Jack nodded.

‘You know why I like you so much?’

‘My rugged good looks and sparkling wit?’ Jack suggested.

‘In all the time I’ve known you, you’ve never truly asked for anything for yourself.’ Hammond said. ‘For your team, for others, for the safety of the planet but not for you. Daniel pointed out to me that you would probably have remained in place at the SGC, maybe even have taken the Homeworld job after all, while there was a threat to our operational approach.’

‘General…’

‘Let me finish, Jack.’ Hammond squared his shoulders as he met the younger man’s eyes. ‘I’m not unaware of the personal sacrifice that you would have made if you had taken the job, or indeed the personal sacrifices you have made in the past. I know you and Sam care deeply for one another and please,’ he held up a hand, ‘don’t give me that bull about her just being a valuable member of your team.’

‘Nothing has ever…’ Jack began.

‘I know that, son.’ Hammond said quickly. ‘Neither of you has ever given me cause to doubt the job comes first, heck, Jack, you even shot her when she got taken over by that alien. But the fact is I should have separated you both a long time ago.’ He sighed. ‘Back when I ran the SGC, I felt the unique combination of talents within SG1 was integral to our success. Now, that might have been the right decision for the safety of the planet but whichever way you slice the cake, I did you both a disservice as people.’ He noted how uncomfortable the other man looked at being forced to discuss the situation directly and decided to wrap it up. ‘When Daniel explained how his plan could solve our wider political issues, it seemed like a good opportunity for me to correct that disservice.’

Jack shuffled his feet a little, glanced back across at Hammond. ‘I think I owe you a big thank you.’

‘You don’t owe me anything, Jack.’ Hammond said. ‘As I recall I still owed you for getting me reassigned to the SGC after that business with the NID threats to my family.’

‘Ah that.’ Jack smiled. ‘Well, consider that debt repaid. Thank you, sir.’

Hammond nodded. Given Jack had told him once that the price was Jack’s soul that was quite an admission. ‘I’d thank Daniel if I were you. It was really his plan and he formulated the arguments I used with the President.’

Jack nodded slowly and the two men smiled at each other.

‘So…’ said Jack as he searched for something that changed the topic.

‘I understand Teal’c’s leaving at fifteen hundred for Dakara?’ Hammond jumped in.

‘Yes sir.’ Jack confirmed gratefully. ‘You staying for it?’

‘I’d like that.’ Hammond said.

They stepped out of the elevator and headed back to the commissary as Jack filled his CO in on what they had planned for Teal’c’s send off. They separated at the entrance and Jack entered the milling crowd. He looked for Sam first. He always did. He found her talking with Daniel and Teal’c. She suddenly looked over in his direction and smiled at him. He made his way across the room to them and, because he couldn’t help himself without warning or regard for how it might look, swept Daniel into a bear-hug. Sam and Teal’c glanced at each other amused.

‘Jack?’ Daniel asked a little worriedly.

Jack released him, patted his cheeks and stepped back leaving Daniel to adjust his glasses and smooth his tie. ‘Thank you.’

‘The speech really wasn’t that good.’ Daniel said bemused.

‘Not for the speech.’ Jack said as he accepted the glass of juice Sam handed to him.

Daniel smiled happily. ‘He went for it?’

‘Thinks it’s a great idea.’ Jack confirmed taking a gulp of his juice. ‘Hammond’s planning to announce the news within the next couple of days, get the ball rolling.’

‘What news?’ Sam asked.

‘I believe it involves Daniel Jackson’s plan to prevent the SGC falling into the hands of another General Bauer.’ Teal’c said.

Daniel caught Sam’s inquisitive look. ‘I’ll tell you later.’

Sam was about to demand that he tell her immediately when her eyes caught on the clock. She gestured with a jerk of her head at the time.

Jack followed her gaze and felt his good mood dim a little.

Teal’c watched them and felt his own spirits drop. ‘It is almost time for me to depart, O’Neill.’

‘Ah, Teal’c, before you go,’ Daniel said, ‘there’s been something I’ve been meaning to give you but it’s still in my office.’

‘Why don’t you two go pick it up and we’ll meet you in the gate room?’ Jack suggested casually.

‘Great idea.’ Daniel said. ‘Shall we?’

‘After you, Daniel Jackson.’ Teal’c followed the archaeologist through the base to his office. He anticipated that it was nothing more than a delaying tactic for whatever surprise O’Neill had planned for his departure but after years of living with the Tau’ri he had no wish to spoil the pleasure that the others would elicit from the moment of revelation.

Daniel hunted through his office although he knew exactly where he’d placed the item in question. He finally picked up a box he had hidden out of sight at the side of his bookshelf. It contained a small, beautiful wooden table with fifty-holes drilled into the varnished lacquer.

Teal’c recognised it immediately; it was an original Jackal and Hounds game from Ancient Egypt, one that he and the younger man often played together. He had owned it once previously when the other man had ascended but on Daniel’s return he had insisted on returning the game to its rightful owner.

‘I want you to have this, Teal’c.’

Teal’c stared at Daniel for a long moment, a muscle working silently in his jaw. He bowed his head. ‘I am honoured, Daniel Jackson. Be assured that I will take good care of your gift.’

Daniel felt a lump in his throat. ‘I know you will, Teal’c. And hey, I expect to have a game every time I visit you on Dakara.’

‘Then you will have to visit me often, Daniel Jackson, so we can maintain our knowledge and skill of the game.’ Teal’c said huskily.

Daniel nodded. ‘Deal.’ He glanced at the clock. ‘I guess we’d better get you to the gate room.’

‘I will need to retrieve my staff weapon.’ Teal’c said.

‘Sure. We can do that.’ Daniel hurried him out of the office and it wasn’t long before they had the staff weapon and were walking through the door to the gate room which was already awash in the eerie blue light from the outgoing wormhole.

Teal’c stumbled to a halt. He had suspected a surprise but nothing on the scale of what had been done. The room was filled again with people. More were gathered in the control room. There were easily more people in attendance than had been crammed into the room for the Presidential visit. He nodded an acknowledgement to many as he made his way to the ramp where there was a short line of people waiting to say goodbye to him.

Daniel quietly placed the box containing the game on the waiting buggy that would take the rest of Teal’c’s belongings through to Dakara. He slipped into place on the opposite side of Sam as the stunned Jaffa came to stand in front of the man who had once commanded the SGC.

‘Goodbye, Teal’c.’ Hammond said solemnly. ‘Words cannot express my gratitude to you for what you have helped us achieve.’

‘Nor my gratitude to you, General Hammond.’ Teal’c placed a clenched fist across his chest as he bowed his head.

Hammond nodded and stepped off the ramp to leave Teal’c to say a goodbye to his team.

‘Daniel Jackson.’ Teal’c firmed his lips as a sudden wave of emotion hit him. This man, more than any other, should have hated him and yet he had forgiven him and more than that, had befriended him. ‘I am honoured to consider you my friend and my brother.’

Daniel stepped forward and hugged Teal’c hard before he let him go. ‘Take care, Teal’c.’ There were tears glimmering in Daniel’s eyes as he stepped back.

Teal’c turned and found himself embraced by Colonel Carter. He hugged her gently. ‘I wish I could stay with you at this time, Colonel Carter, but I cannot.’ He whispered.

‘I know, Teal’c.’ Tears choked her voice. She hurriedly eased back.

‘You are my sister, Colonel Carter,’ Teal’c stated his fondness for her coating every word, ‘know that you will always be welcome in my house.’

Sam bit her lip to keep control, tears shimmering in her eyes and Teal’c couldn’t look at her anymore.

He focused instead on the man who had changed his life, who had given him hope and who had believed in him. ‘O’Neill.’

‘Teal’c.’ Jack’s voice was rough with the emotions he was suppressing.

‘You are my brother and it has been a great honour to serve at your side. My people and I owe you a great debt. Should you need me, O’Neill, know that I am yours to call upon.’ Teal’c murmured.

Jack couldn’t wait any longer. He hugged Teal’c. ‘Back at ya, Teal’c.’ He forced himself to stand back, let the Jaffa go. He gave a sharp nod to the control room and the buggy rolled forward through the wormhole. Teal’c looked again at his team-mates as they shifted to stand in a line at the bottom of the ramp. They had fought together, saved each other together and were bonded in ways few could ever know or experience. They were his family. He bowed his head.

Hammond called the order for attention, for the salute of honour. Every man and woman gathered followed it whole-heartedly. Jack’s hand snapped up as did Sam’s; Daniel followed the Jaffa tradition of a fist across the chest.

Teal’c blinked hard against the press of his own tears. He executed his own salute and with a final look at his SG1 team-mates, whirled away and into the wormhole. The event horizon disappeared leaving a gaping hole in the middle of the Stargate.

Chapter 5

Carolyn checked her watch and wondered whether doing a fourteen hour shift on her first day was setting a dangerous precedent. She had wandered to the General’s office expecting to leave her finished report on Colonel Carter on his desk. It was a surprise to find him still hard at work although he had changed from formal dress to the more comfortable BDU. His grey head was bent over a report that was cast in a yellow glow from the single lit desk lamp. She tapped on the door.

His warm brown eyes snapped up. ‘Carolyn.’ He was surprised to see she was still on base. ‘You still here?’

‘First day.’ Carolyn said by way of explanation. ‘I could ask you the same question, sir.’

He smiled wryly. ‘You wouldn’t believe the paperwork that a visit from the President generates.’

‘I believe I might.’ Carolyn laughed. ‘Do you have a minute, sir?’

‘Of course.’ He waved her in and she closed the door behind her.

She handed him the folder she held and sat down in one of the visitor chairs. ‘My completed report on Colonel Carter.’

‘I thought you were doing that tomorrow.’ Jack said rubbing his face tiredly. He’d completely forgotten to tell Sam and Carolyn there was no longer any need for it given the President’s intervention.

‘She was anxious to complete it as soon as possible and I saw no reason to delay.’ Carolyn said easily. ‘I’ve already emailed you and General Hammond a soft-copy.’

‘So?’ Jack asked tapping the buff folder. ‘What’s the verdict?’

‘Physically, there’s nothing a few night’s sleep and a better diet wouldn’t fix.’ Carolyn began, trying to feel comfortable speaking about a patient and silently reminding herself the normal restrictions of confidentiality didn’t apply in the military.

‘And psychologically?’ Jack prompted.

‘Bluntly, she puts up a good front but she’s a mess.’ Carolyn said. ‘I don’t believe Colonel Carter has even begun to address a lot of what she’s endured in the last year. She’s suppressed a lot by focusing on whatever current situation or problem is screaming for attention and because she’s fundamentally a strong woman.’ She sighed. ‘But it’s my professional opinion that with the most recent loss of her father she’s keeping control through sheer willpower at this point.’ She looked at Jack’s serious face. ‘But you knew all that before I examined her.’

Jack ignored her comment. ‘Your recommendations?’

‘I definitely don’t recommend transferring her out of the SGC at this time.’ Carolyn confirmed. ‘Equally I’m against ordering her to take an enforced leave of absence. She does have a support network here and that’s helping her maintain her balance.’ She sighed. ‘I do recommend putting SG1 on stand down for the foreseeable future. She definitely shouldn’t be commanding out in the field.’

‘Understood.’ Jack said. ‘That shouldn’t be a problem. We’re waiting for the arrival of a new team member and he doesn’t transfer for another month.’

‘It may be longer than a month, General.’ Carolyn said firmly. ‘In addition to the stand down, I’d like to start her with a grief counsellor.’

‘A shrink?’ Jack’s eyebrows shot up.

‘A grief counsellor.’ Carolyn reiterated. ‘I’d like to try her with Doctor Kenny. She’s one of the more mature female counsellors on staff at the Academy hospital. I think it would be a good fit.’

‘A grief counsellor. She’s going to love that.’ Jack sighed. ‘Anything else?’

Carolyn nodded. ‘I’d like to re-examine her in a month. Take a view with her counsellor at that point.’

‘Thank you.’ Jack said.

‘I’d like her to report to me tomorrow so we can arrange the first counselling session. The sooner we get her started the better.’ Carolyn said rising to her feet.

‘I’ll inform her.’ Jack confirmed. He responded absently to her goodnight before he locked the papers on his desk away. He headed to the locker room, changed into civvies and headed to the surface. Daniel had called him earlier to tell him he was taking Sam home. He figured he’d catch up with them there.

She was going to hate the results of the evaluation, he mused as he drove away from the mountain, but it should support the President’s denial of the request and prevent any further discussion of a transfer. All in all, it was working out quite well. The President had approved the plan for him to retire and continue working at the SGC as a civilian and Sam and Daniel were effectively going to be restricted to the base for the next month which meant he got to spend more time with both of them. The only downside was losing Teal’c. They had all been crushed when the wormhole had disappeared…

Jack dimly heard Hammond dismiss everyone as he slowly lowered his hand. He was grateful; he wasn’t sure he could talk. He was vaguely aware of people filing out of the gate room but his attention remained on the Stargate, his mind’s eye still seeing the shimmering puddle of blue of the event horizon.

‘He really left.’ Daniel murmured in disbelief.

‘Yeah, he really left.’ Jack repeated gruffly. He glanced over at the archaeologist and realised that the younger man’s face was wet. Sam looked up at him and Jack felt his heart lurch at the sight of her surreptitiously swiping away her own tears. It had been too much for her too. Jack felt the press of tears against the back of his own throat; hell, it had almost been too much for him.

He cleared his throat and rocked back on his heels. ‘Is anyone else hungry? I don’t know about you kids but I didn’t eat a lot at that lunch.’

‘A snack sounds good, sir.’ Sam sniffed.

‘Sure. Why not?’ Daniel agreed. ‘I hear Chef made peach pie.’

‘Pie’s good.’ Jack said as he led them out of the gate room. ‘I could go for pie.’

‘You can always go for pie.’ Daniel commented wryly.

Looking back, Jack realised, everybody else had given them space as they’d made their way to the commissary and sat down with a slice of pie each. Of course he and Daniel had ended up eating most of Sam’s but the time had let them regain their equilibrium and adjust to their first hour without Teal’c even though they’d spent most of it reminiscing. They might have spent longer if Sam hadn’t suddenly glanced at the clock and shot off…probably to the evaluation with Carolyn, Jack deduced in hindsight. He sighed. It was less than five hours without Teal’c and he already missed the big guy.

He pulled up in front of Sam’s house, pleased to see Daniel’s car still parked out front. He walked briskly up the path and knocked on the door. It was Daniel who answered and let Jack into the house. They made for the den and Jack saw Sam stir sleepily from the sofa to blink at him. There were a couple of discarded pizza boxes on the floor, a couple of beer bottles on the coffee table and the movie that was flickering across the screen was Star Wars. He looked at Daniel who shrugged.

‘Want a beer?’

‘Sounds good.’ Jack said.

Daniel disappeared to the kitchen.

‘You going to hog the whole couch, Carter?’ Jack inquired.

‘Sorry, sir.’ Sam shifted up so he could sit down beside her. They were close enough to be touching and Jack savoured the innocent contact. His gaze flickered to the empty chair where Teal’c would normally sit.

Sam followed his gaze. ‘I miss him.’

‘Me too.’ Jack murmured.

‘Me three.’ Daniel said passing Jack a bottle before he slumped into a chair. He grabbed a box and handed it to Jack. ‘Pizza?’

Jack took a cold slice and bit in enthusiastically suddenly aware he hadn’t eaten since the pie in the afternoon. He had put away his second slice and Luke had found the Princess when he cleared his throat. ‘I’m putting SG1 on stand down for the next month.’

Sam shifted so she could look at him properly. ‘The evaluation?’ She asked.

Jack nodded.

‘She thought I needed to go on stand down?’

Her voice was surprisingly calm and Jack peered at her worried. ‘SG1 would be on stand down anyway given you’re a man down.’ He pointed out. ‘On the upside,’ he continued cheerfully, ‘you can work on your projects and spend some time with Cassie.’

‘I will get to spend more time with Cassie and there’re a number of projects that I’ve been meaning to start but haven’t had the time.’ Sam wondered at her sense of relief. Maybe she really did need the downtime. It would be good to have a stable routine for a little while.

‘And maybe you can fit in seeing a grief counsellor.’ Jack threw in casually.

‘She’s ordering me to see a grief counsellor?’ Sam slumped back against the sofa. ‘Great.’

‘Look, I know I’m not usually one to advocate counselling and that sharing your feelings mumbo-jumbo,’ his comment elicited a reluctant smile from her and gave him the incentive to continue, ‘but I seem to recall you had Cassie see someone after Janet died.’ Jack said quietly. ‘Why not give it a go?’

‘I guess it couldn’t hurt.’ Sam grumbled.

Jack felt the tension draining from him. ‘So, you’re OK with this?’

‘I’m OK with it, sir.’ Sam said. ‘So I’m not getting transferred?’

‘Well, actually, the President spoke with the Joint Chiefs and suggested you would be needed for Daniel’s plan.’ Jack said. ‘You’re safe.’ He held up his hands as the realisation that she needn’t have taken the evaluation crept across her face. ‘Hey don’t look at me. I would have rescinded the order tomorrow morning but you were so keen…’

‘About Daniel’s plan, sir.’ Sam said staring at him. ‘You’re really going to retire and run the SGC as a civilian?’

‘That’s the plan.’ Jack confirmed cheerily ignoring how hard his heart had started pounding.

Sam held his gaze for a long moment, considered asking the question that hovered on her lips; was he doing this for her, for them? A laser battle commenced on the screen; its wild flickering momentarily grabbed her attention and also her courage. ‘What about the Homeworld Security job?’ She asked instead. She’d heard a rumour he’d been offered it.

‘I was offered it but I turned it down.’ Jack replied simply wondering if he should be disappointed with her reaction.

‘You’re turning down the opportunity to be a two star General.’ Sam noted.

‘I never thought I’d make it to the one star.’ Jack laughed. ‘I’m content with where I am, Carter. I’ve had my time in the Air Force but staying at the SGC I still get to feel part of it and it fits with Daniel’s grand scheme to keep the Pentagon brass from interfering too much in what we do.’

‘So, you’re really going to do it?’ Sam checked.

‘I’m really going to do it.’ Jack held her gaze. ‘The President will make my retirement official as soon as we’ve assigned the new military command, revised our current procedures and structure and it’s all ready to go. At that point, I won’t be in the Air Force any longer.’ He cleared his throat. ‘And I won’t be your commanding officer any longer.’ He couldn’t make it any more explicit, Jack thought, not without having the discussion which was not going to happen given that although he could tell Daniel was pretending he was somewhere, anywhere else, he was actually in the same room.

Sam began to smile, one that seemed to light up her whole face. ‘Things will be different.’

Now that was the reaction he’d been hoping for. ‘Oh, yes.’ His eyes gleamed. ‘Things will definitely be different.’

‘So how long do you think until everything’s in place?’ Sam asked as she settled back beside him, her eyes flitting back to the TV screen.

‘Daniel?’

Jack’s questioning tone had Daniel looking away from the movie action where he had determinedly kept his attention during the couple’s exchange and glancing across at them. ‘Jack.’

‘How long until we think we’ll have everything in place and I can retire?’ Jack said.

‘Four to six weeks, maybe.’

‘Four to six weeks.’ Jack repeated. He looked back at the archaeologist sharply. ‘You’re going to help me with all this stuff, right?’

Daniel raised his bottle. ‘I’d be happy to.’

‘Great.’ Jack held his gaze. ‘And Daniel? Thanks.’

‘You did ask me to find a way.’ Daniel said with a smile.

‘Yes, I did.’ Jack murmured. The two men shared a look of understanding before Daniel broke the contact, his gaze returning to the adventures on-screen.

Jack shifted as Sam let her head rest on his shoulder and he stretched out his legs in front of him. His eyes flickered again to the empty chair where Teal’c usually sat and felt the loss of his friend anew. At least, he thought, as his gaze slid to Sam and onto Daniel, the three of them still had each other.

Next: Butterflies, Chapters 11-15