***

General Hammond’s tone revealed all the incredibility and horror that swamped him as he released his fury at the Joint Chiefs and their aides arrayed before him.

“And you believed him? Have you learned nothing from our encounters with the Goa’uld?”

His gaze hardened as he swept the impressive display of four star decorated Generals and Admirals that made up the Joint Chiefs sat in the most secure and classified area of the Pentagon. His disbelief at their stupidity and, yes, disloyalty, sustained his defiance in the face of those who could destroy his career in an instant.

General Vidrine coughed a discreet warning to his subordinate. Hammond paused, absorbing the reactions of his superiors to his outburst. Expressions varied between outrage, indignation and guilt.

“General Hammond. We have made our decision and have the support of your Commander-in-Chief. We expect you to carry out your orders. Colonel O’Neill has made too many enemies and Earth will not pay the price.”

The speaker was General Stanton, highly influential in the JCS and someone who, Hammond knew, shared Senator Kinsey’s interests. Stanton had lost substantial budget to the SGC.  They had clashed previously as Hammond and Vidrine had fought to maintain the SGC as the frontline defense for the planet.

Speechless at Stanton’s assertions, Hammond flicked his gaze at General Vidrine who stepped into the breach. Clearly, this went a little too far for his immediate superior too.

“With respect, General, Colonel O’Neill has been on the front line under orders, carrying out his duty to the best of his ability. His record speaks for itself and the planet owes him a great deal. This decision has not been taken due to any reflection on Colonel O’Neill’s service but because we can not put one man before the safety of the entire planet. Colonel O’Neill would recognize that.”

Stanton shrugged, clearly unaffected by Vidrine’s defense. Hammond was little more impressed either but for entirely different reasons.

“With respect, Sirs, Colonel O’Neill will recognize that he has been sold out to satisfy the personal agenda of Apophis.”

“That is enough, General,” Vidrine snapped, unable to allow his subordinate’s blatant defiance to go unchecked further. “We understand how you feel but the decision is final. If you feel unable to carry out your order to inform Colonel O’Neill of the decision, then...”

Hammond shook his head.

“I’ll tell him, General. However I want it noted that I discharge this duty under protest.”

“Noted,” the Chair of the JCS stated, clearly wanting the unsavory discussion to reach a conclusion.

***

Jack O’Neill sat in the holding cell, unable to stop his hands from shaking. Slowly he buried his face into the palms of his hands in an attempt to still them and to hide his pain. He could not quite believe what Hammond had told him.  Right now, the General would be informing his team. If anyone had been watching, they would have seen O’Neill visibly flinch.

O’Neill had known immediately that Hammond was only the reluctant, no, scrap that, furious, messenger boy. Jack was only grateful that his superior had not shirked the duty of telling him: to hear it from anyone else would have been unbearable. So Apophis had won he mused. Earth was to meekly roll over and allow Apophis to scratch its tummy in the misguided belief that the false God would then disappear into the night, never to return.

He wondered how long he had here on Earth as plain Jack O’Neill, stripped of his command. Not retired or resigned but decommissioned. No way for the Air Force to recall him to active duty if he didn’t want to this time. The papers were  signed, the dirty deed accomplished before he had even known there was any question of him being thrown out of the force he had served all his life.

Anger built inside him, chewing at his innards, blood coursing furiously through his veins. Disgraced on paper and now to be fed to the wolves. He lifted his head to the gray ceiling tiles and rolled his eyes. How would his team survive this? They would feel as betrayed as he did. Soon he would go through the Stargate for the last time. Representatives from Earth would accompany him to witness Apophis rid himself of his most irritating enemy. O’Neill shook his head in disbelief. How Apophis had come up with this latest scheme, he could not imagine.

He could hear shouts from the hall. With one quick movement, he was flat against the door, face pressed up to the small glass window. His SF guards were armed and ready to prevent any attempt at rescuing him. It was Teal’c: he could hear bellowing. Jack cringed. The courageous and dignified Jaffa warrior was clearly incensed in a way that even O’Neill had not witnessed before. The shouts became muffled until there was silence. Hammond would have been prepared for such outbursts. His eyes stung as he thought about his team and how they would be suffering because of him right down. He knew Daniel would not recover from this. Teal’c, he imagined, would feel so disillusioned that Jack could only assume he would return to Chulak to fight his own war against the false Gods’. The Tau’ri had just relinquished all claim to his loyalty. Hammond would honor his decision. And Carter?

An anguished groan escaped him and he doubled over as physical pain swept through him. Sam. God. He should have told her. She was his biggest regret. They had given up everything for their duty and now he knew that that had been the worst mistake of his life. He loved her and he would never get the chance to realize the dreams they had silently agreed to put aside to a distant future. He would gladly go to hell and back to prevent her suffering the pain of this unjust and cruel separation.

Clenching his fists, he rubbed his eyes furiously, trying to stem the tears that threatened to overwhelm him. Years of discipline prevailed, and dry-eyed, O’Neill slid to the floor to wait his fate. He knew it would not be long now. Hammond hated prevarication.

***

It was a hot, dry and dusty planet, similar to Abydos, which welcomed O’Neill as he stumbled through the Stargate. His wrists, bound behind him in the ubiquitous plastic restraints the SGC now employed, prevented him from maintaining his balance as he exited the event horizon. His SF guards steadied him. His thoughts were still preoccupied after leaving the eerie, empty embarkation room through the Stargate. Other than Hammond, there had been no other soul to witness his ignominious departure. Even the SFs assigned to him were unknowns. O’Neill was glad in one respect: Hammond had considerately ensured this humiliation and betrayal was as private as possible. Another part of him regretted the chance to say a final farewell to his team. Instead, former full bird colonel and his CO shared one solemn moment and O’Neill had nodded his forgiveness to his friend, George Hammond. He had seen the brief flicker of gratitude in the General’s eyes. It was enough. Hammond knew he did not blame him. O’Neill hoped it would provide some salve to the guilt he knew the finest CO he had ever served under would feel. Hammond had uttered only five words. His voice had been gruff, torn by repressed emotion.

“It was an honor, Jack.”

“Feeling’s mutual, Sir.”

Now, O’Neill looked towards the reception committee ahead of him. His eyes were immediately drawn to Apophis. The snake’s regal and arrogant stance immediately raised his hackles. Forcing down the bile that rose in his throat as he took in his most hated and now victorious opponent. O’Neill then forced himself to take in the representatives of Earth specifically chosen, or perhaps here voluntarily, to witness his downfall. His eyes narrowed.

Colonel Samuels was there, General Stanton, (Kinsey’s pet Doberman), and the State Secretary of Defense.  Others he vaguely recognized.

Beyond them was the pod on the launcher that would send him into space. Course preprogrammed to take him to a black hole thousand of lights years away. Hammond had explained in detail the technology. The pod had its own mini-hyperdrive to ensure his journey was completed in seconds, with no chance of any unexpected rescues from races like the Asgard. O’Neill shivered as he remembered the time he and Teal’c had been trapped in a similar situation in the cold depths of space. Beat dying directly from Apophis’s ribboned hand though.

An unusual calmness pervaded him as he was moved through the waiting reception. As he passed Apophis, he paused briefly. O’Neill stared the Goa’uld in the face, his eyes cold, emotionless and dismissive. Apophis showed his irritation in a brief display of glowing eyes.  As he passed the representatives from Earth, the ex-colonel allowed the contempt he felt to show. To his surprise, Samuels flinched. Perhaps not to his surprise, he reflected. The little welch was a coward, pure and simple.

Discipline allowed him to bury his fear as he was bound into the pod. Pride masked his fear as he felt himself launch smoothly into space.  Fear won as he experienced the initial effects of his entry into the black hole. Briefly, he recognized a rollercoaster journey similar to the well-trod rollercoaster rides through the wormholes linking the countless Stargates throughout the galaxies. When the intensity of the journey was magnified a hundredfold, O’Neill made his final farewell to life.

***

Moving through hyperspace and travelling at unimaginable speeds, the pod approached the black hole, defying all previous theories on time relativity. Unknown to O’Neill, the crystal providing the means to enter hyperspace fractured and the pod dropped back into normal space, unexpectedly subjecting itself to the devastating gravimetric forces of the black hole. Seconds later, the backup system initiated. Back at hyperspeed and on course, the pod’s lack of mass allowed it to pass through the few kilometers of dense matter that made up the center of the black hole and which absorbed everything else, even light. Easily finding the rift through space opened by the initial supernova, creating a gateway through to another universe, the pod slipped through and continued for some distance before the back up power source drained out. The pod dropped back for the second time into normal space.

An automatic systems reboot slipped in activating emergency procedures and began to scan space for a habitable planet matching the required life specifications. On finding the required planet just a few days away and with sufficient resources to support life until the pod could land, the systems onboard boosted life support to revive its occupant placed in stasis just hours earlier.

***

O’Neill opened his eyes. Nausea screamed and instinctively he forced it back down, knowing that to succumb to the stomach wrenching motions would be of much regret later. I should be dead. He stared at the white ceiling just inches above his nose and immediately claustrophobia overwhelmed him.

“Nooo,” he wailed. He should have died in a black hole. How many people could claim that privilege? But no! The O’Neill survival clause ensured he would instead die slowly in the cruel coldness and emptiness of space, if he did not go insane first that is, from the walls closing in on him. Flashbacks to Iraq, cryogenic chambers and small cells swamped his mind. Frantically O’Neill tried to regain control of his thoughts. His memories and fears were too much and he screamed in terror, restrained limbs jerking in a horrid parody of a puppet on short strings. Hours merged into days. In a brief moment of sanity, O’Neill emerged to take in a change in motion. He battled through the feelings of terror to access memories past. It felt just like re-entry. The reality crashed in on him. He was going to land. The sound of reverse thrusters broke into his thoughts. O’Neill began to laugh hysterically. Apophis would be turning in the metaphorical grave O’Neill pictured for him if he knew. The course he was on had led him to a planet. He had survived a black hole and, just minutes from death by dehydration, he was going to land on a god-forsaken planet, god knows where! To top it all, the pod he was in still had the normal escape pod technology, including the ability to make re-entry. Instinctively bracing for impact, O’Neill whispered a prayer that this time the crash would release him from this hell-bound existence.

A short time later quiet voices whispered above him, intruding on the blissful peace that O’Neill had temporarily found. Forcing his eyes open he looked up into warm, purple, alien eyes. The creature carefully lifted his broken body out of the pod causing O’Neill to scream in agony until the waves of pain faded a little. O’Neill took his first shaky breath of fresh, slightly sweet smelling air, in a universe well beyond the grave promised him by Apophis.

FOUR YEARS LATER

Carter, Daniel and Teal’c took their seats in the visitor gallery. They looked out in awe across a scene that dwarfed anything they had ever witnessed before. Teal’c leaned over. “This forum rivals even that of the senators who gathered in Star Wars,” he informed them, his tone awed.

Carter and Daniel both stared at him speechlessly, sharing just one glance between them before looking out across the gathering below them.

“Actually, Sam, I think Teal’c isn’t far off.”

Carter shook her head in amazement. Their guide had explained that each representative below was the leader of a planet supporting populations of billions if not trillions. They had already discussed the size of economies that would be represented here which outweighed anything they had ever encountered before. Daniel had been ecstatic. He had never encountered such a diverse wealth of civilizations existing harmoniously with one another, not in his studies nor his travels through the Stargate. It was a democratic society, backed by a ruling structure he had not quite got to grips with, yet.

All three had been humbled to find their reception in this universe gentle and welcoming.  After their experiences with the Goa’uld and their experiences through the Stargate, it had been a bit of a culture shock to find that their universe was paltry in comparison to the richness, diversity and maturity found here. O’Laska, their self-appointed sponsor, for want of a better term, in this universe had taken it upon himself to explain the politics to them. Apparently a deadly foe from yet another universe had forced the representatives of numerous galaxies to work together to defend themselves. Until recently, the universal war had been going badly but fortunes had improved. Their leadership was strong. Daniel had begged O’Laska to help them find a way to speak to the leadership and request their help in locating their friend, Jack O’Neill. O’Laska had shook his head in amazement before saying he would look into it. Three days later, they were sat here, apparently waiting the return of the frontline forces to report to the Foruma of Galaxies on the turn-around in the fortune of the fight against the Nitans.

Daniel leaned out over the balcony; they had a front seat view.

“Sam, I count at least a thousand representatives below and many are not even here. O’Laska mentioned that many galaxies are too distant and will be viewing the forum through remote communication technology.” He paused as music erupted around them. Sam grinned as Teal’c visibly responded to the rousing music that clearly heralded the main event. Silence reigned and in the most impressive display of respect they had ever witnessed the entire representative body stood up. The music stopped and a pin could have been heard to drop.

At an unseen signal, the balcony stood too, the remaining SG1 team only a split second behind them. 

Through the huge, ornate and richly decorated doors to this grandest of arenas, a dignified procession slowly wound its way to the center stage where two thrones stood empty. Important, richly dressed personages peeled off to take empty seats lining both sides of the raised platform. Finally, a couple stepped up to the dais. An elderly, dignified statesman handed the Foruma’s president to her throne. Fascinated, they watched as the statesman bowed respectfully, receiving a gracious nod in return, before stepping back to join those to the side. They looked at one another in surprise. The other throne remained empty.

From the center of the representatives a lone figure stood.

“Senator Aswanh has the floor,” a voice intoned through the impressive communications system. Massive display screens sprang to life and suddenly different views of the hall were magnified for all to see. Carter noticed one display focused entirely on the beautiful face of the President. The woman on the throne had a regal bearing that spoke of an authority that belied her youthful appearance. Perhaps forty, Carter hazarded a guess.

Senator Aswanh in comparison was a mature woman with silvery grey hair swept up into a graceful arrangement.

“Madame President. The peoples of the Olwa Galaxy send their greetings and respect to the Foruma of Galaxies, its Madame President and to the A’garja.”

“I accept your people’s greetings with gratitude, Senator. Please continue your address.”

“Madame President, I speak on behalf of the entire forum to request news of the A’garja and his forces. Rumors abound that the Nitans have been vanquished. How have our forces fared?”

“Thank you, Senator, for your query. I can confirm that our forces have successfully repelled the main Nitan fleet to their home universe and that we have won a reprieve from the terrible struggles we have endured for eons. This Foruma has been called to welcome our forces home tonight...” Madame President paused as a ripple of excitement swept the assembly. The atmosphere was electric and a swelling of euphoria abounded as the first true authoritative pronouncement on the war was absorbed.

“Sam, this is unbelievable. This is historic, monumental...” Daniel could barely conceal his excitement. “Have you any idea how privileged we are to be here to witness this?”

Carter nodded, grinning. Teal’c was riveted to the events unfolding beneath them. Madame President held up one hand and immediately the forum silenced.

“I am delighted to announce that the A’garja is here on Halla and we expect his arrival shortly. Whilst we await his arrival, Commander Tallon is here to advise on developments.”

The tale that enfolded held the forum and SG1 spellbound.  A section was devoted to honoring those who had given their lives to defending the galaxies. Millions had perished in the most fearsome of space battles. Deeds of heroism abounded and senator after senator leapt to their feet to acknowledge their sacrifice, particularly those whose planets had been most affected by the wars.

Suddenly a stirring at the doors became noticeable and the A’garja’s arrival seemed imminent.

“We must have the best seats in the house,” Carter whispered to Daniel. “This beats Congress any day.”

“It would appear that this A’garja is here. I look forward to seeing such a great warrior,” Teal’c observed.

The ornate doors swung open and the music that burst forth announced the arrival of a person clearly revered by all here. The music stopped and as before, silence reigned. A lone figure stepped through the doors and paused.

Carter’s heart stopped as she took in the familiar form. She felt Daniel grip her hand so tightly she winced with pain. Immediately he relaxed his grip but did not let go. As one, all three SG1 members turned to the display viewer. Jack O’Neill, his expression guarded, full military discipline in place, stared back at them.

He’s alive. Carter felt faint from the rush of emotion that swept through her and she would have collapsed if it had not been for Teal’c’s steadying hand, suddenly under her elbow. Their gaze moved from the enlarged image of their lost friend and teammate to the imposing but distant figure still standing motionless at the door, before moving into full sight.

As they saw him physically appear the representatives erupted into cheers, shouting congratulations and chanting the name “A’garja”. O’Neill marched slowly down the central walkway to the podium. As he passed each row, the representatives stood to create a wave of standing ovation. Undisturbed, O’Neill continued his lonely journey forward. Carter blinked back tears, a lump stuck in her throat. She glanced at Daniel who stood open-jawed in awe at the reception his friend was receiving.

“It would seem that O’Neill is the A’garja. This does not surprise me. O’Neill is a great warrior and a superb strategist,” Teal’c commented.

Carter could not help it. She laughed, her emotions overtaken by the unfolding scene before her.

“He’s alive,” she whispered softly.

Her friends heard her and grinned. O’Neill had reached the podium. Against the background of cheers and pandemonium Madame President stood up and stepped forward, her hand outstretched. O’Neill immediately stepped up to take it. Carter felt her heart constrict. Then to their great astonishment, Madame President dropped into a deep, graceful curtsey, sweeping her long, voluminous skirts to one side. Instantaneously O’Neill swept a low bow.

***

Formal greetings exchanged, Madame President took her seat again. O’Neill stepped up to the adjoining throne and turned smartly to face the room. Instantly there was silence, and a thud of a thousand feet stamped the ground from the military personnel in the room followed by a salute of one hand thumped against the breast. The salute was held until the A’garja returned it. O’Neill dropped his hand and the military fell back to attention.

“At ease,” the A’garja commanded.  As both military and political representatives took their seats O’Neill relaxed and grinned. Then he turned to sweep his gaze across the balcony, his eyes immediately finding and locking onto the eyes of his three former teammates who stood stunned, frozen at the sight of him. Still smiling, he nodded. They grinned back at him like idiots and he knew they were fine. A part of him that he had not known was still there suddenly relaxed, and another part of the huge burden that weighed on his shoulders lifted.

He watched them take their seats before turning to the expectant crowd. A few short years ago, this moment would have terrified him. Numerous appearances before the Foruma had moved from a rally of the defeated into a victorious summit. As the A’garja he had earned this moment and he would meet its challenge.

“Madame President, Senators, Officers, Ladies and Gentlemen. On behalf of the forces of the Foruma of Galaxies, I salute you and thank you for your welcome. Your acknowledgement here today encompasses all those who have fought, died and won in our battle against the Nitans. We have won a breathing space. The Nitans were sufficiently depleted and damaged that they will need to rebuild their defenses. We estimate that we have between one and two years before we face direct confrontation again. It is not much time but it is time enough to rebuild our strength, to find new strategies and methods to fight the Nitan’s blackstars. It is also time to strike deep into the Nitan territory established in our home universe to sabotage the Nitan’s preparations for war...” O’Neill paused. “It is also time to negotiate.”

There was a groundswell of concerned mutterings from the floor. A portly senator stood up to O’Neill’s left. Graciously the A’garja sat down.

“A’garja. Please let me extend the respect and gratitude of all planets of the Auaxian System.” The A’garja nodded.

“A’garja. The Nitans have never accepted negotiations before. Why would they now?”

“Senator Hei. The Nitans have just been thrashed and if they are ever going to negotiate, now’s the time to try. More to the point, this war has been ongoing for hundreds of years with the odd decade of peace in between. Don’t you want it to stop? Negotiating a peace is always preferable to repeating the cycle of war unremittingly. It is the ultimate prize. Sure, we can take the war to the Nitans. Fight them on the territory they have claimed here. But only as a last resort. Not because we are no better than the enemy.”

Senator Hei bowed his thanks and sat down. Immediately another senator took the floor. Initially the A’garja provided the answers to the forum’s questions, explaining the battles fought, outlining plans ongoing to protect the galaxies of the Foruma, and explaining strategies that had been deployed. As questions moved into politics, Madame President joined the discussion. The discussions went on for a further two hours. Finally, the floor was closed.

The booming voice announced the rest of the day’s itinerary followed by a final thanks.

“Madame President and President. Thank you.”

***

Daniel jumped. He hadn’t quite caught the subtleties of O’Neill’s position but, suddenly, he realized that O’Neill was the joint president of a federation of galaxies and the commanding officer of the largest military force he had ever come across. Right now O’Neill was the most powerful person he had ever encountered both in history or current day. He had not missed Sam’s reaction beside him to the joint acknowledgement. Learning more of O’Neill’s life may hold more surprises than they would like. O’Laska appeared beside them as the Presidents left the hall.

“You were surprised, yes?”

Carter grinned.

“You knew? Why did you not tell us?”

“That would not have been fun. I got a message to the A’garja and you have been invited to attend the banquet at the palace this evening. There will be a private audience with the A’garja beforehand. A palace escort will arrive to show you the way and ensure you have everything you might need.”

Daniel shook their new friend’s hand.

“O’Laska, we can’t thank you enough for helping us find our friend.”

O’Laska looked embarrassed.

“I saw the A’garja search you out just a few hours ago. That was my reward.”

Daniel shook his head in wonder.

***

To the team’s relief, the promised escort arrived and they were courteously ushered through the crowds. A waiting hover transport awaited them outside the imposing Foruma building. Carter was still reeling at the variety of technology in common use, absorbing as much as she could, constantly questioning the captain in charge of their escort. The handsome captain seemed amused and happily answered her questions to the best of his knowledge. Daniel noticed that basic understanding of the science used was taken for granted, but as Carter got more technical the Captain’s eyes glazed over. Carter recognized the O’Neill trademark code for “Enough.”

“Sorry, I got carried away. It’s just so amazing here,” Carter admitted openly. Their Captain smiled.

“We are here,” he announced.

“We are?” Daniel asked surprised. All he could see in front of them was a pair of huge, intricate gates of some wrought metal he couldn’t quite identify. The gates seemed to shimmer slightly.

As the gates swung open before their transport, they forced a portal through what looked to be an opaque force field. Behind it, the most beautiful parkland setting was slowly revealed. A long drive in the fashion of a country park in England stretched ahead before curving around a small rise. The palace escort’s Captain waved his hand, encompassing the view before them, as their hover transport moved through.

“It is beautiful, is it not?”

SG1 nodded in silence as they drank in the sights. They felt like tourists being given a special tour. As they swept behind the rise Carter gasped. The palace was stunning, spires and ornamentation straight out of a fairy tale.

“The A’garja lives here?” Teal’c asked, clearly impressed.

The Captain nodded.

“With Madame President?” Carter asked silently.

“This is their official residence. The A’garja uses the residence as his main base whenever he is here, which is not often. Madame President has her personal residence on her home world and retreats there as much as her duties permit her.”

Carter nodded, not quite sure if she had learned what she wanted to know but unwilling to bluntly ask the exact nature of the relationship. She could feel Daniel giving her a searching look. She knew he was asking if she wanted him to ask more questions. She gave him a clear warning not to push further. They would find out in due course.

At the palace doors, the transport stopped and they jumped out. Eyes constantly roving they took in their stunning surroundings as they entered the palace, finding themselves, much to their surprise, in an internal, sun soaked courtyard. As they crossed the huge expanse to another, even grander entrance they finally found themselves inside the most important home in the universe. Daniel was torn between his need to see O’Neill and his desire to study his surroundings.  His impatience to find his friend won though and they allowed themselves to be guided down a long corridor. Palace guards outside a pair of solid and intricately carved, polished wood doors similar to cherry, snapped to attention. The door opened as if by magic and their Captain ushered them in.

Jack O’Neill stood waiting. There was an awkward pause as the guards left the room and the four former team members stood looking at one another.

O’Neill let a small smile cross his face and he nervously ran his fingers through his hair immediately wrecking what had been a neat, if short style. He locked his eyes on Carter’s brilliant blue ones and she recognized a heart stopping mix of amazement, relief, and happiness in the gentle brown orbs.

Breaking the spell that bound them, Carter cracked first. Racing forward, she hurled herself into his arms, which opened to accept her embrace.

“You’re alive,” she told him happily. “We found you.”

Her voice broke with the emotion and O’Neill pulled her tightly against him, his right hand burrowing into the back of her neck as he had done before when they had found themselves needing the close touch of a hug. She could feel him bury his face in her hair before gently pushing her away. Gentle fingers cupped her face, lifting her head up so brown eyes could gaze into her own.

“I’ve missed you,” O’Neill whispered hoarsely. “Every day. This time I didn’t allow myself to forget or lose hope.”

Carter smiled, tears running unstoppably down her cheeks. Gently, he wiped them away with his thumbs. She leaned into the soft caress.

A slight cough behind them brought the pair back to their surroundings. They laughed sheepishly. Daniel and Teal’c had closed the distance and were looking approvingly at the pair, still wrapped in their own private embrace.

***

O’Neill saw the suspicious shine of tears in Daniel’s eyes as the archaeologist stepped towards him. It was a gesture of his need and, reluctantly letting Carter go, O’Neill turned to him and enveloped the slightly smaller man in his arms, at the same time acknowledging Teal’s presence with his eyes. O’Neill knew the Jaffa warrior would understand and patiently wait until Daniel had made his greeting.

“Space Monkey,” O’Neill said affectionately, ruffling his hair, still with its military style cut. Daniel moved his head away, embarrassed by the touch, as O’Neill knew he would. He just loved to provoke these predictable reactions. It had been so long since he could.

“Jack. It’s so good to see you. But how?”

“Ah ah,” O’Neill admonished, lifting his hand to pause what looked to be a Jackson spiel of rambling questions and observations. “All will be revealed. But first...”

He turned to Teal’c. As usual, the warrior stood calmly, the real pleasure he felt only hinted by the slight upturn lift to his mouth.

“Teal’c. Good to see you buddy.”

“I am glad to find you well, O’Neill.” The warrior bowed his head and his gentle words lifted O’Neill’s spirit as he heard the unspoken words behind the simple greeting. O’Neill nodded and then he turned to take them all in.

“Come. Sit down, can I get you something to eat, drink?”

He gestured to a close arrangement of sofas and they quickly threw themselves into comfortable positions. Carter took a seat next to O’Neill, close enough for their knees to touch.

“We have not eaten since lunch, Jack, so food sounds good. But aren’t we joining you later for dinner?”

“Sure are. But, if you’re famished I can arrange for something simple to keep you going. Have you tried the local version for coffee here?”

O’Neill glanced at Daniel knowing his need would be the strongest.

“That would be great, Jack, thanks,” Daniel accepted. 

O’Neill pressed a button inlaid into the low table before them. It was cunningly embedded within the design and would have been unnoticeable to his friends.

“Please send tuka and sandwiches,” he ordered, before releasing the button. Carter leaned forward to study the communication device and O’Neill grinned.

“You have to love the conveniences here. Earth has nothing on them.”

As if to support his words the doors opened and the tuka, that stood for coffee in this universe, and sandwiches were marched in on silver trays by palace staff.

“Thanks Stefan. My guests will be staying here tonight, please can you arrange for their belongings to be sent over? Have the other arrangements been made?”

The aide bowed respectfully.

“Yes A’garja.”

As Stefan left the room, O’Neill shot a guilty look at them.

“That is alright isn’t it? I just assumed...”

“That’s great, Sir. Thank you.”

O’Neill glanced at her, his eyes narrowing.

“Sam,” he said deliberately. “I am ordering you NOT to call me Sir. It’s Jack.”

He watched the sides of her mouth twitch at the contradiction in his words but she valiantly stopped the threatened smile and managed to seriously nod her acquiescence.

“Not A’garja?” Daniel asked, curiosity bubbling in his eyes.

Jack opened his mouth to answer before wondering what he would say. Much had happened for him to have earned his rank and now even his closest friends routinely used his title. He had become used to it. For his friends to call him Jack, or O’Neill, would sound strange but it would be acceptable. It was his decision he decided.

“Between us, it’s Jack. Or O’Neill,” he added in deference to Teal’c. But you will get quicker recognition from others you might speak to if you use A’garja. I didn’t adopt the name. It was sort of bestowed on me and the people of this universe use it as both name and title. They do know I’m Jack O’Neill, so it doesn’t really matter.”

“What happened to bring you to such an exalted position, O’Neill? We had feared we would not find you, instead, you have proved very easy to locate. Many have helped bring us to you,” Teal’c asked.

“Well, it’s a long story. The short version is I helped a few people win a few battles, gave a bit of advice, freed a couple of planets and found myself in the middle of a space war. The strategies in use against the Nitans were outdated and easily countered by a race that outstrip the Goa’uld in their sliminess. Things just took a momentum of their own. There was a prophecy of a man called ‘the A’garja’ who would be the defender of the universe. Before I knew, it people were chanting the name in battle. I didn’t know what it meant at first, until Tallon, you saw him at the Foruma, explained. I tried to explain I was just plain Jack O’Neill with a military background but they wanted nothing to do with that. Really, there was nothing I could do. I became the A’garja regardless of whether I am entitled to it or not and was eventually given command of the galactic forces.”

He glanced at Carter beside him who looked awestruck. He knew he had left a lot of the interesting details out, but they were bright enough to figure the sort of stuff he must have done. Daniel was shaking his head in disbelief whilst Teal’c merely seemed accepting.

“You are unbelievable. You are sent through a black hole, A BLACK HOLE, you should be dead at worse, injured and holed up somewhere at best. Yet, with nothing but the clothes you left in, you achieve the highest status in an entire universe with galaxies of planets worshipping the ground you walk on. And you make it sound like a walk in the park!”

O’Neill glanced at him, his eyes twinkling.

 “Well, it involved a little more than a stroll, Danny. And they don’t worship the ground I walk on,” he protested. “Or they shouldn’t.”

“I believe you have achieved your potential, O’Neill and found a place in this universe where it is appreciated. Unlike your home world.”

Teal’c’s observation was rapier like in its accuracy and sobered the three humans instantly.

“How is Earth?” O’Neill asked quietly. His fingers had grabbed an ornament from the table and were turning it over and round on itself.

Carter looked to Danny, giving him a mute appeal for his expertise in explaining the situation that had brought them here. He nodded.

“Not good. Apophis has reneged on his deal and we have learned from the Tok’Ra of preparations to take Earth in a fullout assault,” he paused as O’Neill sighed. The sigh was a mix of exasperation and fears realized. “General Hammond had kept track of Sam’s work with anti-gravity technology.”

O’Neill’s head shot up at that.

“Really? Wow, Sam! You’re still way smarter than anyone I know.”

He loved the way she blushed at the compliment.

Daniel continued.

“Sam’s been working on it since you disappeared. She had a notion you might survive the hole and gravity forces in the Goa’uld escape pod and that, if she could figure a way to use the black hole’s gravity against itself, she could find you a way home.”

O’Neill suddenly felt humbled. First Edora and now this. Her devotion to him knew no bounds. He turned to her quietly.

“How long have you been working on this?” he asked her, concern in his eyes.

“Since you left,” she admitted. “General Hammond was so upset by the decision to sell you out that he allowed me to use the full facilities of the SGC to work on a highly classified project known only to the two of us – to get you back.”

There was silence. 

“Sam, thank you. I never imagined... We have to talk. Not now, but later. Tonight. There are things we need to resolve.”

His words and eyes communicated a promise that Carter knew meant their time had come. She still did not understand the set up here but she trusted O’Neill and knew that he was not going to let anything stand in the way of their promised love any longer. Daniel coughed, a contented and happy expression for them both in his eyes. Before the moment could become awkward, he carried on.

“When the news came through, Sam was conducting some final tests. She contacted me at the university I had joined after you left and asked me to come back. Well, I leapt at the chance. Teal’c similarly came back from Chulak. General Hammond is immersed in preparations for war, but he was committed to letting Sam find you. We left, with Jacob’s help before Sam could be assigned to the war effort.”

Carter took up the tale.

“Dad helped us install the anti-gravity technology in a Teltac he had won off-world, so he didn’t need to get permission from the Tok’Ra High Council, and sent us on our way. Dad found it hard. Letting me go through that black hole was a bit of a leap of faith for him.”

“It was for all of us, Sam,” Daniel admitted. “But you’ve earned it.”

Carter stretched out a hand and grasped the shy Dr. Jackson’s own hand, squeezing her thanks. O’Neill leaned back thinking.

“Can’t the Asgard help?”

“It would seen that Earth has set fire to their maritime vessels with their actions against you, and the Asgard have all but washed their hands of Earth. In truth, they are still waging battle with the replicators in their galaxy so their inclination to help is small.”

O’Neill winced before automatically correcting Teal’c.

“That’s burned their boats, Teal’c.”

Daniel looked up.

“They did the wrong thing by you. Jack. It’s come back to bite them. We were kind of hoping that if we found you and you were willing to come back, then perhaps the Asgard might reconsider and help Earth fight Apophis.”

O’Neill shook his head.  “Fighting two major battles might prove too much for them. It is vital the Asgard win the war against the replicators to protect the entire galaxy, not just Earth.”

“How do you feel about helping Earth now?” Carter asked gently. “We  had no idea how you would feel about that, let alone what your responsibilities would prove to be here of course.”

O’Neill pondered her words. He had not believed he could ever return so although he had not forgotten his friends, he had mentally left Earth behind years ago. How did he feel about Earth? The answer was quick.

“Well, I have no quarrel with the people of Earth, only with those personally involved in sending me here. They made a crap decision for the wrong reasons. Some of them did it for personal reasons too. But Hammond, the SGC and the people of Earth... If I can help them without jeopardizing my obligations here, then I will.”

“You are a true and just warrior, O’Neill. You continue to justify my decision to trust in you on Chulak. I pledge my allegiance to your cause, wherever it takes you,” Teal’c stated, sincerity lending weight to the potency of his words.

O’Neill looked startled.

“Teal’c... I.... I thank you. You are always welcome at my side.”

The Jaffa inclined his head.

O’Neill turned back to Carter.

“Can you really get us back to Earth?”

“I need to carry out some tests from this side. If there are scientists here that can help, I stand an even better chance of resolving any problems.”

“It’s done. I will have my work cut out here, getting an agreement to go back but I believe I can turn the situation to our mutual advantage, which will help.”

Daniel was quick on the uptake.

“You don’t have anti-gravity technology here do you? The Nitans are from another universe and they can get here and back.”

“Spot on, Danny. I have the forces to help Earth. Sam has the brains, and her dedication to saving me could ultimately end up saving Earth as well as making a major difference to our own war here. Look guys, you need to understand that I have committed myself here now. I won’t abandon that but I’ll do whatever I can to help Earth.”

“That’s all anyone can ask, Jack. Thanks,” Carter told him, the relief on her face relaxing some of the tension she had carried for weeks now.

“So. Any other news before we need to get ready for the banquet? By the way, you should find a selection of clothes in the rooms which will not be offensive to you,” he grinned at Carter remembering past arguments at playing dress up with local planetary tribes.

“Well,” she said with sheepish modesty. “I got promoted. Lt. Colonel now.”

O’Neill grinned and waggled his eyebrows in mock amazement.

“Congratulations Sam. You deserve it. Hell. I’d make you a General here.”

Carter giggled at his antics. He stopped just to watch her a moment. He loved to make her giggle.

“Ryac is a fine warrior now,” Teal’c told him.

O’Neill nodded. “I’m sure you are very proud.”

“Actually I’m thinking of asking Janet to marry me,” Daniel offered shyly.

“Wow. You’re kidding,” Sam exploded. “Does she know?”

“We sort of discussed it, if we made it back.”

O’Neill felt shocked. “You left her to find me here, not knowing if you could get back?”

“We trusted Sam. If she said she could get us back, then...”

“Danny. You are amazing. You’re both amazing. God come here.” Sam leapt up and grabbing Daniel’s hand pulled him up to give him a big hug. “I’ll get you home. I have to see Cassie as a bridesmaid!”

Danny looked at O’Neill from his position in Carter’s arms. 

“Janet wants you home too, Jack. She couldn’t leave Cassie.”

O’Neill had never felt such an overwhelming surge of emotion as he did right then. His friends were prepared to sacrifice everything for him. He did not deserve their courage and devotion. Right then, he vowed that whatever the difficulties he would get his team home and ensure the safety of Earth for all those that were his friends or simply knew no better.

Teal’c gained his attention with a simple motion of his head as Danny and Carter sat back down.

“O’Neill. What is your relationship with Madame President?”

O’Neill felt puzzled.

“Relationship? What do you mean?”

“It is a source of concern to ColonelCarter and DanielJackson, but they have neglected to seek out the answer to this question.”

Sam went bright red and Danny grinned mischievously. Suddenly light bulbs went off over O’Neill’s head. He turned to Carter and took her hand.

“Close friends and even closer colleagues, Sam. That’s all.” The last two words were said emphatically so she could not possibly misunderstand. Still blushing furiously she nodded, relief and hope making her eyes sparkle.

***

When Colonel Carter, Dr. Jackson and Teal’c were announced at the entrance to the banquet, O’Neill, in his role of host alongside Madame President, turned to welcome them. Instead, he just stood there stunned at the lovely vision before him. Lt. Colonel Samantha Carter had selected a sleek, figure hugging dress of deepest azure blue that billowed out behind her ankles. The front was low cut, revealing the soft swelling of flesh, encased in a tight fitting bodice. The effect was incredible. O’Neill swallowed and noted the amusement shining in Madame President’s eyes.

“Alright, Katara. Put all thoughts of teasing away now,” he growled.

“A’garja. Would I dream of it?” she murmured. They moved together towards the new arrivals. O’Neill knew Katara would not miss this moment for the world. She had attempted to pair him off with many a young lady but his heart was already given to another. Now that woman stood before him.

The swell of people that had melted away to provide them a clear path now crowded in curiously, captivated by these strangers who seemed to have the A’garja entranced.

O’Neill felt self-conscious as Sam took in his own appearance. He was in formal presidential eveningwear for the banquet and knew it made an intimidating impression.

“Welcome,” he said simply. Taking Carter’s hand, he drew her forward, bestowing a chaste kiss on her cheek. She flushed gently and her brilliant blue eyes shone.

“Katara, please may I present Lt. Colonel Samantha Carter, Dr. Daniel Jackson from my home world Earth, and Teal’c of Chulak. Guys, this is Katara, Madame President of the Foruma of Galaxies.”

The Madame President graciously inclined her head to Sam and offered her hand to Dr. Jackson and then to Teal’c. Both men bowed over it before stepping back.

“Colonel Carter, Dr. Jackson, Teal’c. I am delighted to welcome you here. I feel as if I already know you very well as the A’garja as spoken of you many times. Your journey to reach us is an amazing tale. You have my admiration for your courage and skill.”

O’Neill recognized the signs of Carter relaxing and with relief, he knew Sam had taken a liking to his friend and political partner. Katara also seemed entranced by the newcomers. That would make his cause considerably easier he knew. A cooperative Katara had a habit of smoothing the path considerably.

“Thank you, Madame President. We feel honored to be here, especially at such a momentous time for you all. It is very kind of you all to make us feel so welcome.”

“We owe you all a debt of gratitude. The A’garja would not be here if it was not for all of you. I understand you have saved him many times in the past.”

“As he has us,” Teal’c pointed out fairly.

“It is the A’garja’s belief in fighting to the end for his team that has transformed the stakes of this terrible war,” Madame President continued. A murmur of approval arose around them. O’Neill felt his neck burning and he uncomfortably looked round for salvation. He spotted Tallon sporting a wide grin of amusement at his discomfort. Time to move things on, thought O’Neill.

“Ah. Commander Tallon. Let me introduce you.”

O’Neill guided his former SG1 teammates around the room, making introductions, explaining people’s roles and telling enough stories until he was satisfied that all three felt comfortable enough to hold their own. Making his apologies, he left them with a group of scientists already deep in discussion with Carter on her anti-gravity theories to catch up with guests he had not yet managed to greet.

Finally, a gong announced dinner and they all went through a pair of enormous doors to the banqueting hall. O’Neill winced as he saw the long tables with the head table stretched out across them all. In any culture, the table arrangements were always similar. It had been too late to change the seating on the head table but his capable palace staff had managed to ensure that SG1 would be in good company. He had approved the choices himself. A glance across at Carter told him she was relaxed and enjoying herself. Danny was animatedly interrogating a cultural officer he had managed to find and even Teal’c was engrossed in a conversation with one of his senior military leaders. Teal’c had experience that any military officer worth his salt would find fascinating if they could burrow their way through Teal’c’s initial seeming reserve. Fortunately Tranton had gone on the premise that any friend of the A’garja must be worth talking to and his persistence had paid off. Tranton unknowingly went up in O’Neill’s estimation. It also won him a role in the plan that was taking root in his mind.

O’Neill sat next to Katara, as tradition demanded, which for him ensured he would not be bored. The woman was incorrigible, knowledgeable, witty and fun. If she had not already been married to a delightful man, Jolan, with two beautiful children, and O’Neill had not been in love with one Samantha Carter, she might easily have found a place as his soul mate. Indeed their mutual fondness and respect for one another had been a cornerstone for the success of this joint Presidency. Jolan sat on Katara’s right and as if by instinct, the two men most important in the Madame President’s life leaned forward to catch each other’s eye.

“A’garja. Your taste in women is as impeccable as your choices in strategic warfare.”

O’Neill laughed at this outrageous comparison. He really loved this people.

“Jolan, I cannot believe you just said that,” Katara spluttered indignantly on O’Neill’s, and Carter’s, behalf.

“Katara, I know you agree,” Jolan said mildly.

She raised one delicate eyebrow at both of them before giving in. O’Neill had always thought she rivaled Teal’c in her ability to communicate with just a twitch of a facial muscle.

“I agree. She’s wonderful. Actually I don’t think you deserve her, A’garja,” she stated unexpectedly. O’Neill shared a glance with Jolan before rising to the bait.

“You don’t?” he asked her, his voice suddenly croaky.

This drove Jolan to smile. O’Neill internally groaned. He could not be more obvious with his feelings, could he? Katara simply plastered a self-satisfied smile on her face.

“No. Fortunately for you, it does not appear to matter. She is equally smitten. So my only advice to you, A’garja, is to marry her quickly. I can have the arrangements made by tomorrow afternoon.”

This time both Jolan and O’Neill choked on the morsel of food they had stupidly placed in their mouths. Katara blithely continued her argument, although in a quieter voice to ensure only the A’garja and Jolan could hear her.

“A’garja. Look back on the obstacles that have stood in the way of you both in the past. Now look ahead to what you have planned in the near future. I know you. You create change, turmoil, find yourself in situations that prevent you grabbing with both hands what actually matters most to you. Marry now whilst there is nothing to stand in the way. No regulations or awkward laws. It is an oasis of opportunity where you can relax, have time to catch up with friends and make plans. Then you will be able to move ahead without continually worrying about regrets or missed chances.”

She paused to delicately chew a green vegetable similar to broccoli. O’Neill’s mind was racing, absorbing everything she had said. He had long ago recognized that Katara held a unique talent: to take a few facts, observations, history and vision to project a big picture that enabled her to hone in on the missing gaps and fill them. It made her the most formidable and trustworthy politician he had ever met. She did it effortlessly and never failed to leave her husband, or O’Neill, completely and utterly speechless at her conclusions. Jolan, he knew, adored Katara as she did him.

“All you have to do is try not to be your usual tactless self for just one short conversation with the woman you love. Tomorrow afternoon. At the fifteenth hour. Agreed?”

“Yes,” replied O’Neill dazedly. He pushed his glass away. This was too important to find himself inebriated tonight.

“Unbelievable,” Jolan muttered quietly before politely turning to converse with the Senator on his left.

O’Neill glanced across to Carter, catching her eye. She gave him a gentle smile that had his heart racing. She was sipping water, experienced with avoiding unknown alcoholic beverages when off-world. Her table companion grabbed her attention and with a slight feeling of guilt, he turned back to Katara, as Jolan was still deep in conversation.

“Katara, I don’t know what I would do without you.”

“Nor I you, A’garja. I am glad to be able to return the favor.”

“I have plans I need to talk to you about.”

“Does this regard Earth?” she asked him seriously, her eyes suddenly anxious. He nodded, his fingers twiddling the base of his glass.

“Will you leave us A’garja?”

“I am committed here Katara. That has not changed. I believe I can help both Earth and at the same time move our cause forward here. Sam brought the key with her.”

Katara caught a glimmer of where he was headed and he realized she could see the groundbreaking potential without him needing to spell it out.

“Her anti-gravity technology. Of course. Later you will explain and I will understand how I can support you.”

***

The revelry and dancing went on long into the night. O’Neill and Carter had slowly gravitated back together and he had claimed her for a dance. A memory from a long ago movie that he had watched jumped into his mind and spying the open doors nearby he whisked her through. She laughed.

“You’ve watched too many films,” she accused him as they gently moved into a walk through the palace gardens.

“You know me too well and it’s not nice to ruin a man’s romantic moments.”

Carter stopped, forcing him to turn towards her.

“Is that what this is? A romantic moment?”

“If you would like that, Sam,” he took a deep breath before fixing his gaze on to her beautiful, gut-wrenching eyes. They were softly glowing, from the slight exertion of dancing and the gentle light of the twin moons that decorated the night sky.

“I love you, Sam. Always have. Always will.” She opened her mouth to answer him and the temptation was too much for him to resist. He lowered his head to capture her lips, savoring the sweet taste of her lips on his.

The sensation that wrapped them both was electric and as their kiss deepened, her arms sinuously crept round his waist, up his back, her fingers finally burying themselves in his hair. Finally, reluctantly, they pulled apart.

“I love you too, Jack,” Sam spoke quickly, almost as if she was afraid she would miss her chance to tell him. She smiled softly, laughing quietly at herself.

“Jack, I love you, so much, that I know I can’t go on without you. I’ve missed you so it hurts. Without you, I find myself driven to find a way back to you. If I have to stay here, then I will.”

Her declaration of love left O’Neill reeling with happiness. He pulled her towards him and expressed his joy with a gentle kiss to her forehead.

“Together, from now on. You’re sure, are you? Last chance to back out. I have a terrible sense of humor you know.”

She laughed.

“I know. I must have one too, as I laugh at your jokes.”

O’Neill growled deep in his throat.

“What is it?” his Colonel asked him, immediately alerted by the sound.

“Well, look don’t get antsy, I don’t want to be presumptuous but... Well,” he stopped. He was so bad at this. Taking her by surprise he grabbed her hands in his and dropped to one knee.

“This might seem a bit sudden, you having just found me today and all, but you would do me the greatest honor if you married me. Would you marry me, Sam? Today?”

She squealed. It was the loveliest squeal he had ever heard.

“Yes, Jack. I’ll marry you. Today?” her voice rose several pitches as she took in his last question. “Today? Can we do that?”

O’Neill was still in shock that she had said yes.

“Jack, get up. I said yes. Kiss me, please,” she pleaded.

Forcing his aching knee into place, he regained his feet and enveloped her in the biggest hug before kissing her passionately.

“Today,” he told her. “Katara’s already making plans.”

“What?” Sam stopped him. “Jack. You tell me what’s going on,” she ordered crossly as she took in that plans for a wedding were in progress for a marriage she had only said yes to seconds ago.

O’Neill gulped. Sam likes honesty. Just stick to the truth.

“At dinner Katara told me some home truths. In effect, she made me think that if I didn’t act now to make our promises real, then I might regret it forever. I can’t miss this moment Sam, so many times I’ve regretted leaving it in that room, putting us on hold for our duty. This is a moment where there is nothing to stop us, but us. I love you, I want you to be part of my life. I want everyone to know I love you. Katara said if I could manage not to muck things up then she could have everything arranged for 1500 hours tomorrow – well today now.”

“She said it in those words?” Sam's disbelief was clear.

“Well it sounded better when she said it,” O’Neill admitted. “Please Sam, please let’s get married today!”

Sam wrinkled her nose and O’Neill found himself holding his breath.

“We can have a blessing when we get back home so all our friends can be there? I want Cassie to be a bridesmaid.”

O’Neill nodded.

“Anything you want.”

“Anything?” Sam pondered this, seeming to savor the word on her tongue and O’Neill gulped.

“I’ll still have my commitments here to honor. You understand don’t you?” he interjected quickly.

“I understand. We’ll make it work.” Sam looked up at him, her decision made. “Right. If I’m getting married today, I want some beauty sleep now. I want Teal’c to give me away, Danny will of course be your best man. The wedding dress and flowers must be white and I want it on film to show Janet and Cassie when we get home. Dad too. Agreed?”

O’Neill nodded solemnly as she turned back towards the palace, her fingers motioning as they ticked off the points she was reeling off. He recognized the makings of a Carter list and made sure to mentally store the information away as she would expect him to deliver on his word.

He knew he would rue the day he said “Anything.”

Suddenly he realized she had stopped and turned around. There was a soppy grin on her face and tears in her eyes.

“Sammy?” he said, his heart lurching with fear.  She smiled even wider. She liked the endearment. He knew she hated it from anyone else.

“You love me. We’re getting married today,” she whispered softly, almost to herself.

“Yes,” he whispered, his heartbeat slowing again. They moved together and kissed.

***

I