Mathas Farm
Holdrege, Nebraska
Earth
Periods of Leave are times cherished and coveted by soldiers. Away from their assigned duty station, a soldier on Leave can relax, unwind, and recharge. Time away from garrison, free of the military way of life, a soldier can almost believe that the world once again makes sense, and is not fueled by an endless supply of Kiwi boot polish. Sanity can become a relative thing, to a soldier who has not gone on leave recently.
Originally, Frederick Mathas had been scheduled to take Leave upon his return from the Pegasus Galaxy. The actions of Lieutenant Milliby, and subsequent investigation into events, had postponed those plans somewhat. Frustration mounted, as Mathas had waited to be released on Leave. Finally, that day had arrived. Minutes after signing his Leave papers, Mathas had departed Hunter Army Airfield at the run.
Like all young soldiers, Mathas took pride in the fact that he served in the defense of his nation, and in his world. That being the case, Mathas flew home in his Class A uniform. As his career progressed, as his squad leader assured him, he would outgrow this habit. Throughout his flights home, Mathas encountered others who had served at one point in their life. Each of these individuals gave him a kind word. Moments such as these reinforced the young soldiers desire to serve his nation, his world, and his race.
Finally, after several layovers, Mathas had arrived home. Expecting a huge welcoming, Mathas was surprised to see just his father awaiting his arrival. During the drive to the family farm, father and son spoke of local events in Holdrege. For a brief moment, Mathas almost forgot what he did for a living. Though the father would never admit as such, this was the father's goal. As a former Ranger himself, Gregory Mathas was all too aware of the need for normalcy for someone returning from a deployment.
Upon their arrival at the family farm, familiar sights surrounded Frederick Mathas. Fields of corn spread in all directions, into the distance. Driving down the dirt road to the main house, father and son passed the area where the family had raised cattle for generations. Instead of the large herd of cattle Frederick expected, all that remained was core breeding stock. Shocked by this sight, Gregory Mathas had explained of the sale of large amounts of cattle to the government, for use in a colony somewhere or another.
Coming to a stop in front of the family's home, both father and son exited the truck. Moving to grab his duffle bag from the truck bed, Frederick's father insisted he be allowed to grab it, while urging his son into the house. Relenting, Frederick made his way into the large two story home, while his father followed. Stepping up onto the wraparound porch, which ringed the home, Frederick immediately took note of an unsettling silence. Opening the front door, a booming cheer rang out from a large group waiting within.
Taking his first step into the home, Frederick is overwhelmed by the sight of friends and family. Stepping towards him, Frederick's longtime girlfriend Jill embraces him. Coming in behind, family, Frederick's high school football coach, and long time employee's on the farm came forward. As far as homecomings go, this one was perfect, atleast in the eyes of the young soldier. Over the course of the remainder of the day and into the evening, food and drink are consumed in great amounts. An outpouring of emotion is shown to the young man. As the night passed by, this homecoming eventually broke up, and Frederick spent the remainder of the evening by the side of Jill.
Early the next morning, Frederick woke before the sun rose. Walking quietly, the young man was careful not to wake Jill, or his family. Making his way downstairs to the kitchen, Frederick made coffee. On the counter, he found a tray of cinnamon rolls, that his mother had obviously made recently. Munching on one of the delicious rolls, the young man made himself a cup of coffee. His mug in hand, Frederick stepped out of the house in the early predawn twilight.
Wondering around the area surrounding the house, Frederick saw that his father had purchased new farm equipment. This came as a surprise. Everything else was just as he remembered it. During his training, and through his deployments in this galaxy and another, thoughts of these grounds were all that ran through the young soldiers mind. This was home. This is what he knew, and trusted. This was what he fought to protect.
Taking a sip of the dark and rich coffee, Frederick watched as the first rays of light from the coming sunrise broke the horizon. Hearing nothing, the hairs on the back of his neck began to tingle. Turning his head quickly to the right, he was surprised to see his father standing beside him.
"Moring Dad." Frederick began.
"Morning. Didn't mean to startle you." Gregory Mathas apologized.
"Still a sneaky old man I see." Frederick said with a laugh.
"Now that you're in the service, you understand that some things are hard to unlearn." Gregory countered.
Enjoying their coffee, father and son strolled around the grounds. Gregory, immensely proud of his new farm equipment, relished the chance to show each piece to his son. From there, the conversation turned to how the farm was doing, and highlights of the local high school football season.
"Did she say yes?" Gregory asked.
"What are you talking about?" Frederick stammered in surprise.
"I have been in your shoes before. Your mother and I both know you came home and proposed to Jill. So, did she say yes?" Gregory asked mischievously.
"I was going to talk to you about this today. To answer your question though, she said yes." Frederick beamed.
"Congratulations son! I always knew you two would get married. Jill spends a lot of time over here when you are not around. That girl loves you. This is going to make your mother a very happy woman." Gregory explained happily.
"Care to tell me what's on your mind dad?" Frederick questioned.
"Is it that obvious?" Gregory asked.
"With you, it always is. Now spill it." Frederick urged.
"I just worry about you. I can never talk to your mother because she will worry her head off about, these things. Sometimes I wish that you had played college football, instead of following in your grandfather and my footsteps." Gregory explained.
"Don't worry dad. I'm ok." Frederick offered soothingly.
"You know me well enough to know I am going to worry. Tell me, how bad is it out there?" Gregory asked.
"I wouldn't say it's bad. The best way to sum up things in the universe is to say strange. First the war on Tagrea, then the last thing in Pegasus. Strange is the best word for it all." Frederick offered.
"Times have changed since I was in your shoes. All we had were our wits. Now, they give you guys toys out of a science fiction movie. Makes me feel like an old man." Gregory huffed.
"That's because you are an old man." Frederick teased.
"Seriously, I just worry about you. In Vietnam, we did not always know who the enemy was, but we had an idea. Those we fought also did not have blue skin, and a tentacle coming out of their forehead." Gregory continued.
"It is nothing like that, most of the time anyway. On Tagrea, they were human, like me and you." Frederick explained.
"I just worry about you. You are my son. If something happened to you, your mother wouldn't be able to handle it. All I am trying to say is be careful out there. Don't be a hero." Gregory suggested.
"Whatever you say dad." Frederick offered.
"Now that we have that out of the way, let's go have breakfast. If we are late, your mother will never let me live it down. I'll let you tell her you two got engaged." Gregory stated.
Star Gate Command, Cheyenne Mountain
Earth
Milky Way Galaxy
A recent development in the galactic landscape of the Milky Way, unveiled by Tok'ra intelligence gathering, brought about a call to Daniel. As Star Gate Command's resident expert in the old gods of fallen civilizations on Earth, Daniel Jackson was also the resident expert on Goa'uld personalities. Upon his arrival, Daniel had briefed Brigadier General Carter, the Joint Chiefs, and Tok'ra on the name provided by Egeria. Enlil, once known on Earth as the Sumerian storm god, was a personality little was known about, other than vague religious texts translated over time. Though little information was known about Enlil, Daniel had once again risen to the academic challenge.
After delivering his briefing, Daniel had attempted to locate additional information in any of the volumes of historical translations available to the SGC. Little had been found. Finally, sensing Daniel's growing frustration, Carter had suggested that Daniel pursue other matters of his choosing, while remaining at the facility in case needed. Daniel, gifted with this rare bout of free time, found himself surprisingly lost as to what to do next. Finding little to garner the full might of his interest, Daniel instead delved into the file containing every scrap of information thus far developed on the Furling city recently turned over.
Locked away in what was once his laboratory, Daniel laid out reams of photos of the city. These many photos he examined closely, marveling at the majesty of the city. Sadly, as he suspected, any attempt to visit this city would end in failure, as he had experienced during his many times attempting to make the journey to Atlantis. Looking over images of Furling artwork, which graced the city, the archeologist and linguist soon found himself beginning to understand somewhat, Furling culture. Truly, the Furling were a race that rivaled the Ancient's in their knowledge and history.
A soft tap on the open door brought Daniel back to the here and now. Looking up, Daniel took note of two familiar faces. Though often seen, these two were rarely seen together. That knowledge made Daniel somewhat suspicious. Smiling broadly, both Dorin of the Furling and Janus of the Ancient's entered the laboratory. After the dreams of late, Daniel found himself totally unsurprised that these two were now standing here.
"To what do I owe this honor?" Daniel asked.
"We happened to be in the neighborhood, as it were, and thought a visit was in order." Janus replied.
"Actually, we came to update your General Carter on the status of alterations being made to the city we placed in your hands." Dorin countered.
"I was just looking over photos of the city." Daniel stated.
"What are your thoughts?" Dorin asked.
"It is an incredibly beautiful city. You have given us something that we should be thankful for." Daniel replied honestly.
"Use it well." Dorin suggested.
Out of seemingly nowhere, Janus produced a bottle of wine, and three glasses. This wine was an Earth wine, and one of considerable vintage. As Janus uncorked the bottle, he handed the now open bottle to Daniel Jackson. Looking closely at the labeling on the bottle, Daniel found himself unsurprised that this bottle was a vintage nearly impossible to locate today.
"We will just let that breathe for a moment." Janus suggested.
"Pick that up in your travels?" Daniel asked with an arched eyebrow.
"My travels? Whatever do you mean Dr. Jackson?" Janus asked in feigned ignorance.
"It is good that you are here actually. I have a question for you." Daniel said.
"What might your question be?" Janus asked seriously.
"Lately, I have been having these odd dreams. They are odd for two reasons. First, these dreams surround an artifact I have not touched in several years. Second, these dreams are far more vivid than is normal for dreams." Daniel explained.
"This artifact, is it of Ancient origin?" Janus asked politely.
"It is. We once believed it to be connected to a hoax of legend. This artifact is purported to lead its owner to the Clava Thessara Infinitas. That translates literally as the key to infinite treasure." Daniel explained.
"Yes Doctor Jackson, I am aware of what this translates to." Janus replied, somewhat snidely.
"Ancient, right. Sorry." Daniel apologized.
"Another artifact has suddenly began to appear in these dreams. The Catholic Church calls it the Spear of Longinus, but it is commonly known as the Spear of Destiny. At this point, I'm beginning to wonder if the Spear and the artifact are connected. Alternatively, I could simply be working to many hours, and this is nothing more than my minds flight of fancy." Daniel continued.
Unnoticed by Daniel, Ambassador Dorin was staring directly at Janus. His eyes squinted somewhat as he gave Janus a knowing glare. Seeing this out of the corner of his eye, Janus turned to face Dorin, which attracted Daniel's attention as well.
"What?" Janus asked Dorin.
"We will discuss this later." Dorin replied quietly.
Both Janus and Dorin, seeing that Daniel was staring at them both, quickly assumed a serene look on their respective faces. Hoping to shift the focus off him, Janus busied himself pouring glasses of wine for all present. Presenting a glass to each, Janus returned to the conversation.
"The Catholic Church would be delighted to meet Janus." Dorin hinted.
"At one time maybe, but that was long ago. Suffice to say; I doubt the Church of today would dislike me nearly as much as the Church once did." Janus replied.
"This is great wine! Are you two hinting at something?" Daniel asked.
"Would you care to explain?" Dorin asked Janus.
"I will let you handle that while I enjoy my wine." Janus replied.
"This should be interesting." Daniel mused.
"Oh, it is." Janus offered.
"What do you know of the Illuminati?" Dorin asked seriously.
"The Bavarian Order of Illuminati, or the Illuminati of conspiracy theories?" Daniel asked.
"I have seen those theories, and they are worth a laugh at best." Janus interjected.
"Before the Bavarian Order came into being, the Illuminati existed. Though no record exists to the fact, the Illuminati are as old as Athens. Janus, while defying the edict of noninterference, founded the Illuminati." Dorin explained.
"You are really the last one who should complain about interference on this plain of existence." Janus stated to Dorin.
"Touché. The Illuminati was meant to bring enlightenment to man. Janus pursued this goal, bringing down the ire of the Catholic Church along the way. Eventually, he was declared a heretic, and hunted. Feeling invincible, because of his ascended status, Janus took this threat not seriously at all." Dorin continued.
"I really did underestimate the reach that infernal Church had." Janus mused.
"Are you serious? This isn't a game of having a drink and telling a few boasts is it?" Daniel challenged.
"If only that was the case..." Janus sighed.
"Realizing that Janus always managed to remain a step ahead of them, the Church altered their focus. Instead of hunting Janus, they began to hunt the Illuminati. You see, the Church knew it was not the Illuminati they need worry about, but Janus. They hunted those he had enlightened down." Dorin continued to explain.
"Why do I get the feeling you were there with him?" Daniel asked.
"By this point, I was in the colonies." Dorin replied.
"Colonies?" Daniel asked quizzically.
"He means the thirteen colonies." Janus added.
"Here? You were in America?" Daniel asked, somewhat shocked.
"Obviously, we simply called this place the colonies then. As the search for Janus intensified, it became difficult for him to appear anywhere. Unfortunately, Janus has always had a love for walking among the people of this world. Eventually, I was forced to bring Janus to the colonies, as he refused to find another world to amuse himself with." Dorin grimaced.
"I could have handled that situation. In all honesty, having the Church give chase was incredibly entertaining." Janus argued.
"So you see, Janus has not always walked a fine line when it comes to interaction on this world." Dorin explained, while rolling his eyes.
"Oh no, you are not laying all the blame at my feet. You played just as much a part in all of this as I did. Should I tell Daniel about your little speech?" Janus asked.
"What speech?" Daniel asked.
"I doubt Doctor Jackson would be interested in that. What are your feelings on Furling art?" Dorin asked, attempting to change the subject.
"Since he has told you about my activities, I feel it my duty to tell you about our fair Ambassador's rousing speech." Janus beamed.
"Janus, really, now is not the time." Dorin said deadpan.
"As I always say, it is always time." Janus proclaimed.
"Clearly, discretion is not one of your strong suits." Dorin grumbled.
"Tell me Daniel, have you ever heard of the rousing speech given by a mysterious man at the signing of the Declaration of Independence?" Janus asked lightly.
In the days as revolt brewed in the colonies, those who would later become known as the founding fathers of the United States had gathered. As the document that would later become known as the Declaration of Independence was debated, those present shouted the word treason to all likely to sign the parchment. As the talks hit a massive stumbling block, an unknown man, dressed in a dark cape, had risen to deliver a stirring oration. Shortly after his rousing speech was finished, the founding fathers, in frenzy, signed the document. When the signers turned to thank the man for his motivational speech, they found that he had simply vanished. The United States owed its very existence to this mysterious man, whose identity had remained unknown for several hundred years.
"Ok, stop right there. I think it only fair to tell you I recently had a discussion with Colonel Young. He recounted his discussion with you Dorin. While I am all too aware of the amount of influence you had over the development of certain aspects of Earth culture, are you telling me that you were the driving force behind my nation coming into being?" Daniel asked in shock.
"Influence comes in all shapes and sizes." Janus interjected.
"You are terribly amused by this Janus." Dorin glared.
"You have no idea!" Janus laughed.
"Having ventured throughout the civilizations of your world, we felt something more was needed to help you achieve greatness. Having tried democracy once before with the Greeks, we felt it was time to try again. Your nation was the great experiment." Dorin explained carefully.
"We gave man democracy, but the United States is a democracy in name only. The Electoral College makes no sense, atleast in my eyes. That most certainly did not come from us. Drink your wine and give the speech." Janus suggested.
"I doubt our host wants to here the speech Janus." Dorin argued.
"Oh, I am all ears." Daniel replied.
"See, he is all ears." Janus snickered.
"They may stretch our necks on all the giblets in the land; they may turn every rock into a scaffold; every tree into a gallows; every Horne into a grave, and yet the words of that parchment can never die! They may pour our blood on a thousand scaffolds, and yet from every drop that dyes the axe a new champion of freedom will spring into birth! The British King may blot out the stars of God from the sky, but he cannot blot out His words written on that parchment there. The works of God may perish: His words never!
The words of this declaration will live in the world long after our bones are dust. To the mechanic in his workshop they will speak hope; to the slave in the mines freedom; but to the coward kings, these words will speak in tones of warning they cannot choose but hear. Sign that parchment! Sign, if the next moment the gibbet's rope is about your neck! Sign, if the next minute this hall rings with the clash of falling axes! Sign, by all your hopes in life or death, as men, as husbands, as fathers, brothers, sign your names to that parchment, or be accursed forever! Sign, and not only for your selves, but for all ages, for that parchment will be the textbook of freedom, the bible of the rights of man forever." Dorin said, his voice booming.
"Impressive isn't it?" Janus asked.
"Yes, yes it is." Daniel stammered.
"More wine anyone?" Janus asked.
M7R-227
Asuran Solar System
Pegasus Galaxy
Like their sisters performing the same function in the Milky Way galaxy, USS Saratoga and USS Lexington sat in a barren solar system. Recently refitted, both Lexington and Saratoga were both equipped with the new matter stream creation suite. Though new to the fleet, this new capability was receiving its largest test, to validate the usefulness of this technological addition to each Athena Class vessel. The outcome of that test within the boundaries of Pegasus would later become known as Fleet Station Vincennes, with Fleet Station McHenry residing within the Milky Way galaxy.
In the space where both Lexington and Saratoga sat, the remnants of a battle filled the surrounding space. Scattered throughout the orbital plane once home to the world of Asuras, a debris field drifted. Planetary debris, some pieces the size of comets, silently floated. Contained within this planetary debris was a treasure trove of mineral content. To this was added the shattered fragments of the Asuran Fleet destroyed along with the Asuran home world. Even the destroyed nanite forms of the Asuran population contributed to this debris field.
Throughout this debris field, a continuous series of flashes, of brilliant white energy, illuminated space. These flashes were the telltale signature of an Asgard transport beam. Each activation collected debris fragments large and small. Captured within the transport field, the debris dematerialized. Rematerializing on the sun side of the two ship fleet, these materials were restructured into other elements. Though matter stream creation technology could easily create the materials without base elements, to do so would have added considerable strain on the each vessel.
Taking shape, beyond both Lexington and Saratoga, was the shell that would soon be known as Fleet Station Vincennes. Working in tandem, the two vessels would complete construction within the week. Each beaming cycle added new bulkheads, spaces, and interior systems to the growing station. When done, Fleet Station Vincennes would stand as the largest construction achievement ever attempted by humanity in space. Only Arkos Station would only outshine these Fleet Stations, for their sheer size.
Thirteen thousand meters in height, and nine thousand meters in diameter at its widest point, Fleet Station Vincennes was a cylindrical structure standing end to end, and topped with a half sphere dome. Massive exterior doors and protective energy fields protected the internal area of the dome from space. Within this area, Tau'ri and Allied vessels operating within the Pegasus galaxy would have a permanent operating base, and anchorage. A limited repair capability would also be available to docked vessels, courtesy of arachnid form repair droids. A permanent detachment of one hundred UCAV's, housed on flight decks at the base of the station, would stand guard.
Adding to the UCAV detachment, Vincennes would have a weapons suite of her own. Ancient designed drone weapons, ion cannons, and anti-fighter turrets would grace her form. Several hundred thousand kilometers away from the station, at six locations, Ancient designed defense satellites would be emplaced, once delivered from Arkos. Shield emitters and sensors, identical to those found on city ships, were already in place. Should these defensive systems fail to stand up to an assault, the station was further equipped with a wormhole drive. This would allow for a speedy escape, if needed. Powering the station, like fleet vessels, was the powerful Arcturus power generation system.
Internally, each Fleet Station would be capable of housing many thousands of inhabitants, should the need arise. Dozens of decks, outfitted for individual personal quarters, were found. Instead of constant resupply from an outside source, the Fleet Station would be self sufficient, thanks to matter stream creation providing anything from foodstuffs and supplies, to equipment and novelties. A gate room, with Pegasus model star gate, would also be found at center station. Due to Asuras existing on the gate network once upon a time, the addition of a gate here was a mere formality.
Once operational, a large permanent cadre would call this station home. Assisting them in the day to day running of the station was an onboard artificial intelligence, outfitted with a holographic avatar. A second artificial intelligence would be tasked with managing each UCAV, in addition to docking and repair operations within the dome.
Construction had reached the point where supply of completed areas was already possible. USS Amelia Earhart, a fleet supply vessel, was en route, loaded with a variety of items, for that task. Though a commander for each Fleet Station had yet to be chosen, the process was in the works. Despite this fact, both of the standing anchorage points in both galaxies would soon come fully online, and support Fleet efforts in these separate corners of space. Thanks to their incredible size, should military intervention be required in Pegasus, Fleet Station Vincennes would easily house the thousands of troops needed. Vincennes and McHenry marked a change in the Tau'ri way of doing things. These stations announced that Earth was here to stay.
Alba Longa
Roman Home World
Milky Way
Ten minutes earlier, three vessels emerged from hyperspace. Upon their return to normal space, these three vessels announced their arrival to the world of Alba Longa, as USS Athena, HMS Warspite, and HMCS Hugh le Caine. Aboard this joint American, British, and Canadian three ship task force were two very important people; Egeria, Queen of the Tok'ra, along with her delegation, and General Jack O'Neill. Slipping closer into the upper reaches of the Alba Longan atmosphere, locally built Alba Longan versions of death gliders took formation around the three vessels. Under escort, in staggered formation, vessels large and small descended towards the ground below.
Passing over the Alba Longan capital city, passersby on the streets below heard bells ring throughout the city. Seeing long shadows crossing over them, the Alba Longan's turned their eyes skyward. Filling the sky were the three imposing forms of the Athena Class vessels of Earth. In each lucky enough to catch this sight, a feeling of awe spread through them. Finally, those of Alba Longa had been reunited with their long lost brothers and sisters.
Continuing on past the capital city, the three Tau'ri vessels saw the form of the German vessel Gneisenau hovering above the Campus Martius. Gneisenau, having arrived a week earlier, was fully engaged in the construct on of an embassy of Earth to this world. Due to Alba Longan law, a foreign embassy was forbidden to stand inside the boundaries of senatorial imperium, leading to the embassy being built near the Campus Martius. In coming days, embassy staff, and ambassadors of many nations, would arrive to bring this embassy to life.
Standing on the fields of the Campus Martius, a single centuriae, composed of eighty well trained men of the Domum Viam Legio, or Homeward Path Legion, waited. Resplendent in their field gear, these legionaries were a fearsome sight, even at rest. Standing with these legionaries was Primus Imperator Appius Mucius Plautus. Before the Primus Imperator, the visible and audible signature of an Asgard transporter took shape. In its wake, General Jack O'Neill appeared on the grounds of the Campus Martius. Plautus and O'Neill exchanged salutes, and shook hands. These were two men of very similar mind, and thought. Moving forward, that mutual respect and ability shared by these two men would serve both Earth and Alba Longa well.
"General O'Neill, on behalf of the Senate and people of Alba Longa, I welcome you. It is good to see you my friend." Appius Mucius Plautus greeted with a broad smile.
"Good to see you too! Are these the men you are sending with us?" O'Neill asked.
"They are. These are good boys all. They will serve you well." Appius Mucius promised.
"I know that your world wants to take part in this operation, but you do not need to feel compelled to do so. If you want to change your mind, now is the time." O'Neill suggested.
"The Goa'uld ripped my ancestors from Earth. No, we will not back down. We stand beside Earth in all things." Appius Mucius swore solemnly.
Turning on his heals; Appius Mucius looked over the men he had chosen to participate in this coming action. His trained eye searched the face of each legionnaire, for any trace of uncertainty or worry. Seeing none, the Primus Imperator was certain these men, his boys, would carry out their task in true Roman fashion.
"Are you ready boys?" Appius Mucius asked in a booming parade ground voice.
In answer, a booming yell, much like a bark, filled the air. Yes, these men were ready. In the eye of each, you could see a hunger for, and determination to participate in the action to come. Yes, these men would do their duty unfailingly.
"I will have them home before curfew, promise." O'Neill promised.
"Curfew? What is this curfew you speak of?" Appius Plautus asked in confusion.
"It is a figure of speech. I will have them all home, once we complete our task." O'Neill swore.
"Good luck my friend." Appius Plautus wished.
A moment after the two men shook hands, both O'Neill and the eighty man centuriae were engulfed in the field of an Asgard transport beam. Seconds later, the three Athena Class vessels that had arrived shortly before turned silently on their access. Gaining altitude quickly, the three vessels took their leave of Alba Longa. On the ground below, trumpets sounded as bells rang throughout the capital. Each Alba Longan gave silent salute to the retreating sight of these power vessels, which carried eighty Alba Longan fighting men into the coming fray.
"May the winds of war be at your back." Appius Plautus wished silently to himself.
Beyond PF5-210
Unnamed Solar System
Milky Way
Far beyond PF5-210, under cloak, the Athena Class vessels HMS Duke of York, and HMS Prince of Wales, patrolled unseen. Having arrived four days earlier, these two vessels had maintained a constant watch over the solar system, and surrounding space. A third vessel, HMS Sheffield, of the Improved Daedalus Class, had conducted a series of close flyby's of the planet itself, before departing for other duties. These three vessels, had over time, managed to verify that this world was seemingly cut off from the galaxy at large. Its only connection was its stargate, as the fleet of small vessels surrounding PF5-210 performed nothing more than local patrols.
Detecting the approach through hyperspace of three vessels of the Tau'ri Fleet, HMS Prince of Wales signaled their exit point from hyperspace was free from threat. Thirty seconds after the subspace signal was sent, a hyperspace window tore open. Uncloaked, the arriving task force was visible to both HMS Duke of York and HMS Prince of Wales to the naked eye. Having returned to normal space, the three vessel task force engaged their sublight engines, and began to power towards the world of PF5-210. Behind them, the task force left the two cloaked vessels. These two vessels would serve as a combat reserve, should they be needed.
Moving with their cloaks powered down, the many Al'kesh patrolling space around the planet quickly detected Athena, Warspite, and Hugh le Caine. Silently, the three vessels advanced. Maneuvering to intercept, a group of seven Al'kesh, flying in chevron formation, closed on the unidentified vessels. Consulting their sensor readings, each Al'kesh flight crew knew they had no chance of besting these large and unknown vessels in combat. Instead, they began to attempt communication with the vessels.
"Approaching vessels, you are intruding in sovereign space. Reverse your course now." An Al'kesh pilot ordered.
On the bridge, sitting in his commander's chair, Brigadier General Steven Caldwell watched this order on a holographic display screen before him. Twice, he watched, as the message was repeated. Before a third could come, he opened a communications channel of his own, to respond.
"This is General Steven Caldwell, commanding officer of the Earth vessel Athena. Our mission is to deliver a dignitary from Earth to your world, and this dignitary is one you might not want to turn away." Caldwell warned.
Standing beside Caldwell, a smile spread across General O'Neill's face. Yes, this should be a fun turn of events.
"Do you want to tell them, or should I?" Caldwell asked.
"I think you have a handle on it. Let them know who is aboard. That should change their tune, if our intelligence is correct." O'Neill replied.
"Who is this dignitary you speak of?" The Al'kesh pilot questioned.
"General Jack O'Neill." Caldwell replied deadpan.
On the face of the Al'kesh pilot, Caldwell and O'Neill saw surprise, shock, and wonder. Clearly, O'Neill was the last person the pilot had expected to arrive unannounced. Though he tried to put a look of composure on his face, wide and surprised eyes betrayed his true thoughts and feelings.
"I am unaware of a scheduled arrival of O'Neill. You must come to a stop, and wait while I receive authorization to allow your passage." The Al'kesh pilot ordered.
"Young man, General O'Neill is standing beside me now. You can either clear out of our path, or we will drive through you." Caldwell warned.
Confusion, fear, and worry were plain to see on the Al'kesh pilots face. The unspoken threat conveyed in Caldwell's response was clear; move now, or be dealt with. Fear is a powerful motivator, and once more, it provided the needed nudge. Signaling the other Al'kesh under his command, the pilot ordered his craft to alter course. Refusing to reduce their velocity, the three Athena Class vessels of the task force continued unmolested.
As the three vessels achieved orbit of PF5-210, both HMS Warspite and HMCS Hugh le Caine turned on their access towards space. Engaging their powerful shipboard shields, the two vessels sounded flight quarters aboard ship. Men who had previously flown CF-18 Hornet's manned their space capable F-302's aboard Hugh le Caine. Flight crews aboard Warspite did the same. Exiting the two vessels hangar bays in sets of two, Hugh le Caine and Warspite deployed sixty F-302's apiece. These would patrol near their launching vessels for the duration. As Athena descended into the atmosphere of PF5-210, she also launched sixty F-302's of her own. These 302's, unlike their international counterparts, would descend with Athena, and patrol the skies above her.
For six somewhat tense moments, Athena and her small protectors, fell through the planets atmosphere. Tremendous amounts of heat, stemming from atmospheric drag, built up around each craft. From the ground below, it looked as if a meteor shower of epic proportions was falling upon them. Breaking away from Athena, the sixty 302's orbited their launching craft at three points. In this triangular setup, the small craft would watch over Athena, and meet any threat head on.
Firing her deceleration drive, Athena slowed. Reducing power to her antigravity drives, Athena quickly shed altitude, and began to settle silently above the modern looking city on the ground below. Those on the ground, in markets, looked up at this new arrival. Above them was a craft larger than they had ever seen or imagined. Despite this unexpected arrival, none broke into panic. Instead, they went about their business, while occasionally turning their eye towards the vessel above.
Unseen to those in market places below, visible and audible surges of energy appeared on the topmost floors of ten glass clad towers nearest the Palace of O'Neill, and seat of power for Enlil. As these surges of energy and sound subsided, ten eight man teams of Romans rematerialized. Breaking into two elements of four legionaries, the Romans deployed. Half of each eight man team would stand guard of the topmost floor of each tower, while the other half of each team would proceed to the roof of their assigned tower. These roof teams would turn their focus to the streets surrounding and approaching the Palace. This perimeter security force would act as a blocking force against any security forces that attempted to surge towards the Palace.
Onboard Athena, O'Neill and his escorting security force of ten United States Marines readied themselves. Dressed in digital camouflage fatigues, these men were leaving their beloved exoskeleton combat systems behind. This was done simply to avoid the appearance of an arriving force intent on conquest. To each mans uniform, an Ancient personal shield emitter was attached. In the eyes of each, contact lenses were placed. A recent innovation, these contact lenses would provide a digital overlay to the surrounding area, greatly increasing the combat efficiency of each man.
Outside of Athena, at the northern point of the triangular 302 cordon, a three ship flight of death gliders approached. Breaking away from their twenty ship element at the northern point, four F-302's moved to intercept the approaching craft. Despite warnings from the 302's, the death gliders continued towards Athena. Activating their onboard rail gun, the 302's fell in beside the death gliders, and checked their guns, letting loose a dozen rounds each. The sight of this weapons fire was more than enough to persuade the gliders to alter their course away from Athena.
Beaming down to the walkway leading to the Palace, General O'Neill and his ten Marine escort rematerialized. Forming two lines of five Marines to either side of O'Neill, the Marines checked their weapons. Seconds later, Egeria and Thoran were beamed to either side of O'Neill. Those standing on the walkway as the thirteen person group rematerialized looked upon the new arrivals in surprise. Upon seeing the familiar face of O'Neill, that surprise turned into humble faces. The Marines, their eyes shifting from left to right, searching for any threat, began their march. Casting his eyes on the digital screen in the distance, Thoran watched the propaganda video giving proof of O'Neill's rule of this world.
"Are you really going to look at that video and tell me you have nothing to do with this world General?" Thoran asked in anger.
"Yep, pretty much. Had I made that video, I would have included footage of me fishing." O'Neill quipped.
"Thoran, I will not ask you again to be silent." Egeria warned.
Biting back a bitter reply, Thoran averted his gaze from O'Neill. Thoran had no wish to see the antagonizing grin on the humans face. Sickened and furious, Thoran remained in step with the others, as they began their climb up the large staircase leading into the Palace before them. Reaching the top of the wide staircase, two guards stepped towards the approaching figures. Dressed in uniforms matching those once used by SG teams, these two sentinels very much resembled those Jack had served with and led.
"Halt." A guard ordered.
"Do yourself a favor, and clear a path." The lead Marine suggested.
"State your purpose." The guard challenged.
"Son, look at my face, then look at that billboard over there. Look familiar? If so, then you know why I am here." O'Neill stated.
Seeing that O'Neill, Slayer of Gods stood before him, the guard and his companion quickly backpedaled. Wordlessly, they opened the large bronze doors of the Palace, and allowed the new arrivals passage within. As the large bronze doors parted, the interior of the Palace came into view. Unlike other Goa'uld palaces, this structure lacked the highly ornate appearance of others. Lining the room were stone columns to the left and right, bordering the smooth pathway leading to the throne of Enlil.
Seated on his throne, Enlil shifted his gaze to those who approached. Dressed in an outfit identical to a business suit worn on Earth, Enlil had clearly abandoned the trappings of the Goa'uld. Behind the throne, instead of ornate statuary and engraved hieroglyphics, was a simple burgundy velvet curtain. No guards or functionaries were seen. That, in O'Neill's eyes, was a sure sign of unseen danger. As O'Neill's face came into view, the look on Enlil's face took on an uncomfortable yet hopeful expression.
Stopping seven meters from Enlil and his throne, the group of thirteen came to a halt. For a minute that seems like hours, the thirteen and Enlil stared at one another silently. Marines moved to either side of those they protected, to ensure the room was free from threat, and to assume better defensive positions. After a tense moment, O'Neill finally decided to break the silence.
"I think you have some explaining to do sparky." O'Neill suggested.
"I owe you no explanations human." Enlil spat, in his booming Goa'uld voice.
"Oh, I think you do. The Tok'ra agree. For a Goa'uld, you are half smart." O'Neill countered.
"And my other half is what?" Enlil asked.
"Stupid." O'Neill answered simply.
"What is it you want here human?" Enlil demanded.
"First I want you to answer a few questions. Once we have that out of the way, I want you to get off that chair, and slip into a not so comfortable pair of hand restraints. We are going to take a little trip to the Tok'ra home world." O'Neill explained.
"You will never remove me from this throne!" Enlil snarled.
As soon as Enlil's voice fell silent, the Goa'uld silently mouthed a message to those standing before him. Those words were "help me". Seeing this, O'Neill arched an eyebrow, while turning his head in confusion. Egeria, standing beside O'Neill, moved to whisper in the General's ear. Instead of the booming Tok'ra voice of her symbiote, it was instead the soft voice of Egeria's host.
"General O'Neill, this does not smell right. Something is very wrong here." Egeria whispered in warning.
"According to that little video we saw outside that is my throne. Since it is my throne, I am telling you to get out of it now." O'Neill commanded.
"You will never remove me from this throne!" Enlil raged.
Again, as he had done seconds before, Enlil silently mouthed the words 'help me' to those standing before him.
"I have had just about enough of this. Marines, take him into custody." O'Neill ordered.
Two Marines, those nearest Enlil, moved to either side of the Goa'uld's throne. Each grabbed Enlil by a shoulder, and lifted him to his feet. Once standing, a Marine placed handcuffs on Enlil's wrists. As the cold metal restraints were locked on each wrist, a strange thing happened. Upon Enlil's face, an expression of relaxation could be seen. As the Marines moved Enlil away from his throne, the Goa'uld silently mouthed his thanks to O'Neill and Egeria.
"Get him back to Athena." O'Neill ordered the Marines.
As the two escorted their charge away from his throne, and towards the Palace entrance, the sounds of footsteps could be heard. Behind the throne, the burgundy velvet curtain ruffled. From a point on the other side of the curtain, two humans emerged. Strangely, these two humans were familiar to O'Neill.
"Stop!" The first human yelled.
"Disregard that Marines. Get the prisoner out of here, now." O'Neill ordered.
"We cannot let you take him." The first human stated.
Squinting his eyes, O'Neill took in the faces of both humans who had appeared from behind the burgundy curtain. Searching his memory, he tried to place where he knew these faces. Then, it donned on him where he knew these faces.
"I know you. Tell me, are you still posing as a psychiatrist? Still using the name Peter Tanner?" O'Neill asked.
"You may call me Peter, if you wish." Peter offered.
"The Goa'uld destroyed your world. So, after hiding on Earth for a few years, you went out and jumped into bed with a Goa'uld?" O'Neill demanded.
"After we departed your world, we sought out a refuge elsewhere." Peter explained.
"You sought out refuge, yet you saddled us with Martin Lloyd. Do you really think that is a fair trade for us? Are you ever going to come get that guy? Frankly, I am getting sick of that guy filling up my voicemail." O'Neill argued.
"We decided the best choice for Martin, was to leave him in your care." Peter countered.
"I think what you mean to say is that Martin irritates you too, and you decided to dump your problem on us." O'Neill replied sarcastically.
"How did Enlil come to rule this world?" Egeria interjected.
"To answer that, I must explain how Enlil came into our possession." Peter answered.
"Possession? A keychain is a possession. A living being is not a possession!" O'Neill thundered.
"After our departure from Earth, we searched for a safe refuge. During our search, we came across a crashed Goa'uld vessel. Those Jaffa aboard perished when the craft crashed on a world outside of the gate network. Enlil, though gravely injured, had survived. He pleaded with us not to kill him. To avoid that fate, we reached an agreement with Enlil. We healed his wounds, and allowed him the appearance of being in power on this world. In exchange, Enlil provided us with his knowledge of Goa'uld technology." Peter explained.
"How do I figure into this?" O'Neill questioned.
"We were aware of your fame throughout the galaxy. Using you as the owner of this world provided two advantages. First, it reminded Enlil that we had a force stronger than he, to call upon should he not comply with his end of our agreement. Second, it would strike fear in any who wished to do this world harm, as it would be thought that this world belongs to Earth." Peter explained.
"So you bluffed?" O'Neill asked.
"Basically, yes." Peter replied simply.
"This does nothing to explain where the inhabitants of this world originated from. Were these inhabitants taken from other worlds?" Egeria demanded with a frightening edge to her voice.
"The citizens here were not taken. We thought our home world destroyed, and our people gone. We learned. that was not the case. These people are my people, and the survivors of my home world." Peter explained.
"That is a great story, but we will be taking your pet snake now." O'Neill stated.
"Enlil has purpose here. He must remain on this world. If we are to have a hope of surviving, we must have his knowledge." Peter argued.
"Do you have any idea how dangerous this is? You are playing with fire." O'Neill countered.
"We have made it clear to Enlil that our fate is tied to his and his to ours. The situation is to both sides liking." Peter replied.
"Then why is he sitting there asking us to help him?" O'Neill asked sarcastically.
"Your arrival provides him an opportunity that is all." Peter answered firmly.
"He is your pet. Ok, I think that is a bad idea, but I see what you are going for. This is still an unacceptable danger. You can't keep your pet System Lord." O'Neill lectured.
"What of the host? While Enlil is in your custody, the host is an unwilling prisoner. That alone, the Tok'ra cannot accept." Egeria added.
"We are open to negotiating the host's release. All we ask is the knowledge contained by the symbiote. On that point, we cannot budge." Peter stated.
For twenty minutes, bickering continued between all present. When finished, little had been resolved, in O'Neill's opinion. Thoran, at the command of Egeria, would remain on this world, to stand guard over Enlil. Athena would be departing with the star gate of this world. HMS Duke of York and HMS Price of Wales would remain, to ensure Enlil was not secreted away on an Al'kesh. A negotiations team and further Tok'ra watchers would arrive.
"Ready to give me that apology now?" O'Neill asked.
"Not even if Egeria commanded it." Thoran replied.