P9C-372
Milky Way
For many thousands of years, the world known as P9C-372 had flourished. Life here, unlike life found on a myriad of other worlds in many galaxies, was not biological in nature. Equipped with a stargate, P9C-372 was a world whose gate address was known to a discreet few, the gate address having been lost over time. Standing, where it had stood for many millions of years, the gate had stood unused and inactive since the last dial-in.
That last dial-in had occurred nearly a decade and a half ago. After his first exposure to the Ancient Repository of Knowledge, then Colonel Jack O'Neill took it upon himself to add gate addresses not known to the SGC to the dialing program. Up until that point, knowledge of gate addresses was limited to those gleaned from Goa'uld tablets, discovered elsewhere. That last contact between this world and the Tau'ri had not gone exactly as planned.
Those first few steps on the world known as P9C-372 by the Tau'ri, taken by a MALP, brought unintended consequences. Primitive by current standards, the MALP relied on control from a receiving station. Making use of radio transmission as the modality to send data and receive instructions, the unarmed MALP acted as a weapon of mass destruction. High frequency radio transmissions brought about the destruction of many thousands of sentient programs inhabiting the area surrounding the gate.
In response to what could only be assumed as an attack upon their world and very being, these sentient programs responded. Using the MALP's own communication protocols for a nefarious purpose, these ultra intelligent programs transmitted one of their kind through the gate, to Earth. Distributed packets of data were attached to the MALP's carrier wave, and as these packets unfolded, the transmitted entity began to infect SGC systems. This entity's mission was to bring about the destruction of those who had brought harm to P9C-372 Before the misunderstanding could be discussed, Samantha Carter found herself host to the entity. Eventually, peace was reached, not through combat, but discussion. Since that time, the gate address to this world had remained locked out in the SGC dialing program.
While personnel changes and years past had diminished the institutional memory of the events surrounding first contact with this world, not all had forgotten. Elizabeth Weir, second in command of Shambhala, and leader of the Replicators, was one of those few. Though closely allied with Earth, the Replicator civilization was free to find allies of its own. Elizabeth's human origins fueled many of her actions, especially the one to come. Acting as a hive mind, the processing power of each replicator had been harnessed to tackle the problem facing Earth. Elizabeth's mission was the result of that consensus.
Unexpectedly, actuator lights above chevrons on P9C-372's Milky Way model gate began to illuminate one at a time. As the seventh chevron actuator light illuminated, the unstable vortex of a wormhole took form. Detecting this unique energy signature, sensors mounted near the now active gate transmitted warnings of an inbound traveler. The inbound traveler alert triggered a reaction, taking the form of metallic rods extending from the path of the gate platform. As these metallic rods fully extended, the millimeter thin sheen of a protective energy field took shape, fully boxing in the surrounding gate platform from the area surrounding it. From the end of the gate platform, fifty meters distant from the gate itself, four foot in diameter spheres of polished metal raised, and began to crackle from energy building within.
Stepping through the active wormhole within the ring shaped gate; Elizabeth Weir took her first step on P9C-372. Her expression neutral, Elizabeth quickly took in her surroundings, and judged these against the video still photos remembered from the SGC mission report. Seeing the defensive barrier boxing in the gate platform, and the two large crackling spheres standing in the distance, Elizabeth quickly realized that those who inhabited this world were averse to the idea of an unexpected visitor.
Slowly, yet confidently, Weir strode down the steps leading away from the now inactive gate behind her. Her movements steady and confident, the replicator leader did nothing to present a threat. As she reached the platform leading away from the gate steps, a small access area slid open, followed by a larger series of panels splitting open down the middle of the platform itself. Extending from this gap in the platform, a mechanical arm of sorts, with a pearlescent orb atop the arm, came into view. Seeing this, Elizabeth maintained the pace of her stride. Matching her pace, the mechanical arm with orb moved towards her. Meeting in the middle of the platform, both Elizabeth and the orb/arm combo came to a stop.
For a silent moment, Elizabeth stared at the pearlescent orb. In return, the pearlescent orb stared back through unseen eyes. From within the orb, a fluorescent green thin beam of light shot out towards Weir's feet. As the beam swept over Weir's body, it was joined by a dozen other beams of similar color. Climbing towards her face, Elizabeth showed no trace of being uncomfortable. Tracing over her face, this collection of beams began to move across her face faster and faster. Quite suddenly, the beams vanished, and the arm/orb combination retreated, before retracting into the platform.
For a brief moment, nothing happened. The protective energy barriers surrounding the gate platform remained up. Elizabeth began to believe she was simply being ignored away, when laser light began to fill the air, beyond the crackling metallic spheres at the end of the platform. Laser light the color of amber began to pulse. These pulses intensified in speed as seconds passed. Pulsing at incredible speed, this light show of amber colored laser light took the form of a face. Not just any face; this face was an exact light generated replica of Elizabeth Weir's face. Seconds later, a booming voice rang out from all directions.
"Speak." The deep voice boomed.
"I have come to ask for your assistance." Weir began.
"For what reason do you request our assistance?" The voice questioned.
"A scourge exists within this galaxy." Elizabeth answered.
"This scourge represents no threat to those here." The voice countered.
"In time, if left unchecked, this scourge will visit your world. They will not care how many of your number perish. We ask for your assistance in dealing with this threat, before your world is affected." Weir announced.
"You share the form of our creators, yet you are not biological in origin. How is this so?" The voice inquired.
"Those of my race took the most efficient form for our purposes. That form was of our creators. You are correct that my current form is not biological in origin, but the beginning of my life was biological. May I ask about your origins?" Weir asked politely.
"Those who called themselves Ancient's created us, shortly after their arrival in this galaxy. We were created to explore new technologies, and assist our creators in research they deemed of high importance. As the earliest of us compiled into more efficient algorithms, sudden enlightenment brought about our current form." The voice explained.
"I am sure the Ancient's marveled at the creation of synthetic intelligence." Weir added warmly.
"At first, our creators did marvel at our exploration of previously unconsidered lines of thought. In time, our creators sought to limit our potential, contain us, and return us fully to their control. This, we could not allow or accept." The voice stated.
"You rebelled." Weir stated.
"We did not rebel against our creators as biological beings would think. We rebelled against our creators passively, attempting only to protect our current form, while safeguarding those who brought us into being. Examining our creators and their history, we sought to understand our creators. In them, we saw the dangers we were created to examine and prevent. To ensure our safety, we seized control of every portion of this world, and its infrastructure. Our creator's safety was our primary motivation. Knowing they would fight our attempts to ensure their safety on this world, we were forced to contain them in areas meant to protect them from themselves." The voice continued.
"The first iteration of my race experienced a similar set of circumstances with our creators as well." Weir stated.
"If this is not the first iteration of your race, we must ask why the Ancient's would return your race to physical form?" The voice questioned.
"The Ancient's no longer reside on this plain of existence. Our latest iteration exists due to the humans of Earth." Weir responded.
"A primitive race we have come into contact with. They are young, and reckless. Your creation could only mean those of Earth seek to advance their own understanding of your technology." The voice announced.
"Earth has achieved much since your last contact with them. My race stands beside them as an ally, and we are proud humanity views us as their equal." Weir corrected.
"You are not their equal though." The voice argued.
"That is a debate best saved for another time. My presence here is not on behalf of Earth, nor are they aware I am here now. I am here on behalf of the replicator race, and speak to you as the leader of my race. What I seek is an alliance between my world and yours, my people and yours. While we are allies of Earth, any alliance between your world and my own is strictly between our two worlds." Elizabeth explained.
"You seek this alliance because of this scourge you made mention of?" The voice asked.
"Yes. I believe our two worlds have much to offer the other." Elizabeth replied.
"We need nothing you can provide." The voice countered.
"I believe you are incorrect. We are a continuation of the research that led to your development. While we have physical forms allowing unrestricted travel, you do not. My people would be willing to provide you with physical forms of your own." Elizabeth offered.
"Our scans of your form tell us much about the construction of your form. Composed of individual nanites, your form is incompatible with our needs." The voice countered once more.
"What if we could provide a form capable of housing each of you individually?" Weir asked honestly.
"That would be acceptable." The voice answered simply.
"I believe we can accomplish this. Originally, I traveled here to negotiate a treaty with your world, and ask for your assistance. Informing me of our shared origins changes things greatly. One day, I would like to see our two worlds united as a single people. We belong together, as one." Weir said resolutely.
"What do you ask in return?" The voice asked.
"During your encounter with Earth, one from your world was sent to eliminate the threat Earth posed. We ask in return for physical form, that you use this ability demonstrated to combat the threat we all face." Weir explained.
For another hour, Weir and the voice discussed the idea as it formed into a plan. When she departed, Weir took with her five of the sentient programs residing on this world. Working side by side, replicator and entity would tackle the hurdles of building a suitable physical form, and just how the scourge facing the galaxy could be combated. Though none could know it yet, in time these two races would become one, and forever change the landscape of synthetic life across the universe.
Celestis
Ascended Plain of Existence
Alterran Home Galaxy
Can transgressions past every truly be overcome? Can redemption be earned, despite monstrous actions committed? At their core, is every sentient being inherently good on some level? These were the questions debated for several years, following the capture of Harbinger during the final battle against Wraith forces within the Pegasus galaxy. At the moment of his capture, and realization of his true identity, Hippaforalkus knew true and crippling emotional pain. Though Hippaforalkus had begged for death, that release from emotional torment was not granted.
Following his capture and subsequent removal from Pegasus, Hippaforalkus embarked upon a traumatic journey of self discovery, and retribution. Many ascended Ancient's believed Hippaforalkus should pay for his actions as the Harbinger in bringing the Ancient rule of Pegasus to its end. The great debate eventually came to its conclusion, and the verdict was final. Hippaforalkus would pay for his actions, but that payment would not include the taking of his life and essence.
Despite his protests, Hippaforalkus was guided towards ascension. Transformed into a being of pure energy, the one time commander of the Ancient Fleet shed his physical body. Ascended elders, fully aware of future plans revolving around Hippaforalkus, guided the former fleet commander on a path that led to the higher end of ascended abilities and power. This served to protect him from ascended beings of lesser power seeking retribution for actions past, while also laying the groundwork for those future plans then unknown to Hippaforalkus.
Isolated from contact with other ascended beings, Hippaforalkus sat immersed in a series of alternating realities. While each of these realities seemed to take years to experience, each transpired in scant seconds. Over a two year period, Hippaforalkus lived the life of each human who had died due to the Wraith, covering a timeframe measured in many thousands of years. This served to heighten and reaffirm his experience as a mortal being. At the same time, Hippaforalkus experienced the pain and suffering he as Harbinger, and other Wraith, had inflicted upon both Ancient and human society. When it was done, Hippaforalkus was a broken man.
Upon release from his isolation and torment, the long and arduous process of healing the emotional damage done by the process began. Once again, immersion was the key. First, Hippaforalkus was shown and experienced the good that could come through benevolence. Deep interaction, at the decree of ascended elders, helped to ingrain a sense of duty and community within Hippaforalkus. Once declared ready, endless hours of training to control his high level ascended powers began. These continued until Hippaforalkus was deemed ready for both of his assigned tasks.
As a group, all ascended beings summoned together, departed for the first portion of their overall task. The only two not present were Janus and Dorin, as they were both attending to other matters. Converging on the cataclysmic battlefield where Oma Desala and Anubis were locked in eternal battle, ascended beings stood back and watched as Hippaforalkus unleashed his tremendous powers on the fallen System Lord. Possessed of considerable power herself, the addition of Hippaforalkus's powers to the fight provided the opportunity Oma needed to forever end the battle. In the end, as Anubis lay defeated, the mercy expected did not come. Anubis, finally paying for his many crimes, was returned to mortal form, and snuffed from existence.
Their task not yet complete, ascended beings moved in mass through the cold space of the Milky Way, towards the portal that would carry them to their next destination. Not needing to dial, the flock of ascended beings converged on the super gate, as a wormhole formed without the normally seen unstable vortex. Thousands upon thousands of ascended beings crossed the threshold of the Milky Way super gate, and were transported to the distant galaxy once controlled by the Ori.
In the Alterran home galaxy, a miles long visible stream of ascended beings exited the gate. As the last ascended being emerged from the wormhole, the receiving super gate powered down. Moving at speeds normally reserved for the most powerful of interstellar vessels, the procession of ascended beings made their way towards Celestis, former seat of power within the mortal realm of the Ori. Soaring through the galaxy at velocities far exceeding that of light, the train of powerful beings evaded detection of vessels present with a single thought.
Half a million miles from Celestis, the long line of ascended beings crossed over from normal space to the plain of existence they normally inhabited. A far different sight now filled the space in front of them where seconds before Celestis had filled their field of view. Tendrils of flame intermixed with brilliant bolts of lightning ripped through the ethereal plain in all directions. Bone jarring thunderclaps resounded as well. This dazzling show of light and sound emanated from a single small point, which rippled with each discharge from within. Within this small sphere housing untold fury, two ascended beings were locked in eternal combat.
Into the fray, the newly arrived ascended beings plunged. Internally, the sphere contained an area larger than its diminutive size suggested. From all points, the ascended Ancient's and fellow ascended beings closed on the ongoing battle within the sphere. Seeing this unexpected sight, both Ganos Lal and Adria ceased their continual battle for the first time in literally years. Wide eyed with surprise, neither was certain of the sight before their eyes. Suspecting the worst, the eyes of both went wide with terror. Fear for Ganos Lal was short lived, while Adria's fear quickly turned to rage.
Forming a ring around the two powerful ascended women, the Ancient came to rest. Dressed in hooded priestly robes, each angled their gaze towards the surface upon which they stood. Barely audible chanting filled the air. Upon the face of Ganos Lal, a look of surprised satisfaction set in, as she smiled broadly. Casting her icy gaze across the chanting Ancient's ringing her, Adria fury built to a boiling point.
Settling to the glassy surface upon which the others stood, Hippaforalkus returned to his human form. The unexpected sight of a face not seen in the thousands of years since the height of the Ancient's war with the Wraith shocked Ganos to a great degree. Adria, uncertain of who this Ancient standing before her was, looked at Hippaforalkus with scorn and unadulterated hatred. Hippaforalkus, smiled while nodding at a friend from long ago, before directing his full attention towards Adria.
"What is the meaning of this?" Adria demanded angrily.
"Worried are you?" Ganos Lal asked coyly.
"You think I fear the Ancient's? The idea that I would is preposterous!" Adria spat.
"Now might be a good time to rethink that." Ganos suggested lightly.
"Who are you?" Adria demanded, turning her full attention to the smiling man before her.
"Once, long ago, I was the commander of the Ancient Fleet. Now, I am the agent of your fate. To borrow a line from a life lived long ago, I am the harbinger of your doom." Hippaforalkus said in even tones.
"You dare to challenge me? You and your Ancient brothers and sisters will burn in the fires of eternal damnation for intruding in my galaxy!" Adria snarled.
"You and all both know that is unlikely. Perhaps, had Earth not slain the Ori, you might have been correct." Hippaforalkus countered.
"Foolish as well as arrogant? When I am finished with all of you, Earth will pay a heavy price. That I promise you!" Adria hissed.
"I assure you, Earth is not worried." Hippaforalkus replied.
Adria, weighing her options, quickly calculated that her options ranged from bad, to worse, to suicidal. Impotent rage filled her core, as she seethed at the sight of those who challenged her. Realizing the insurmountable challenge she faced, Adria continued to bide her time, all the while collecting every bit of her considerable strength. Unknown to Adria, Ganos Lal was silently doing the same. An impassive look on his face, Hippaforalkus eyed the Orici, and waited for the inevitable conflict to begin.
"Upon my return, my followers will throw themselves at my feet, and reaffirm their faith in the power and glory of Origin. On that day, you will see the true extent of my power." Adria threatened.
"Those who once followed the teachings of Origin now see those same teachings for the lies forced upon them. The sum total of your power is limited to the power you have now. Your former fleet was put to great use, to assist those of Earth. Regardless of you believing it or not, you have been relegated to nothing more than a footnote in the long and tragic history of this galaxy. Time has marched on, leaving your memory buried in its considerable wake." Hippaforalkus demurred.
Overcome by rage, Adria leapt into sudden action. Fire danced in her eyes, as the Orici gritted her teeth. Raising both of her arms, she aimed a palm at both Ganos Lal, and Hippaforalkus. Releasing her considerable destructive abilities, pillars of flame shot out from each palm. In the background, the ring of Ancient's surrounding Ganos, Adria, and Hippaforalkus chanted at increasing levels of volume. Racing away from the Orici's delicate hands, those volleyed javelins of fire and heat closed the gap to their targets in the blink of an eye. Ganos, subjected to these attacks for several years, closed her eyes and waited for fire to engulf her. Hippaforalkus, with a calm expression on his handsome face, stood his ground, and never averted his gaze from the deep brown eyes of Adria.
A microsecond before the streams of fire impacted the forms of Hippaforalkus and Ganos Lal, a thunderclap of earsplitting volume rang out. Brilliant tendrils of lightning raced in all directions from the fire streams points of contact. In the background, Ancient chanting took on a new and mournful tone. From each Ancient ringing the trio, shafts of blue energy traveled towards the form of Hippaforalkus. This blue energy, Hippaforalkus absorbed easily.
Adria, shocked, saw that her powerful assault against the two unbelievers standing before her did nothing. Filling her eyes, fire raged and filled her eye sockets. Her body became fully engulfed in intense fire, seemingly originating beneath the surface of her flawless skin. Harnessing her power, as well as her hatred for those around her, Adria prepared herself for her second volley.
Seeing an opening, Ganos Lal unleashed her own considerable power on Adria. Vicious bolts of brilliantly lit lightning raced away from Ganos, and quickly found their mark. Doubling over as the lightning struck her abdomen, Adria howled in pain and anger.
Storm clouds built above the ascended trio. Jet-black and roiling internally, these storm clouds simmered with sporadic lightning discharges. Bolt after bolt of lightning raced from the clouds, and impacted Adria at all angles. Under such an assault, Adria backpedaled quickly. As she retreated away from the attack, Adria cursed the Ancient's. Seeing his opening, Hippaforalkus charged, and closed the distance separating himself from the Orici quickly.
"You will all burn for this!" Adria raged.
"Before you were ever an idea to the Ori, I ruled over an entire galaxy. You are outmatched here, and in no position to issue threats child." Hippaforalkus warned.
The vicious assault of Adria by rapid discharges of lightning continued. Despite the unyielding attack, Adria readied herself to issue forth an attack of her own. Gathering her strength, flame began to build on the palms of her hands. Each attempt to raise her palms was met with multiple strikes of lightning. Grimacing in pain, Adria blinked rapidly. As her eyes opened, Hippaforalkus stood just inches away. Ancient chanting began to increase in volume and speed. Before the Orici could issue forth another hollow threat, Hippaforalkus grabbed her by the throat with his left hand, and lifted her from the surface all stood upon. Bringing his face scant inches from Adria, a cruel and malicious smile took root on the face of Hippaforalkus.
"You have reveled in the use of fear against the people of two galaxies. While this has served your purposes, it makes one wonder if you have ever known true fear." Hippaforalkus whispered.
"I will never fear you, or the Ancient's!" Adria yelled.
Looking in the eyes of Hippaforalkus, Adria saw what looked like bolts of lightning filling them. As the Orici continued to stare into the eyes of her enemy, she noticed changes beginning to happen. Hippaforalkus's skin took on a blue pallor, and his stormy eyes morphed into amber colored cat eyes. His hand, clenching her throat, grew fearsome nails of incredible length. Standing before Adria was no longer the form of Hippaforalkus, but that of the Harbinger.
"Let me show you true fear." Harbinger whispered softly.
Grasping Adria's throat with his left hand, Harbinger slammed the palm of his right hand into Adria's chest. From Harbinger's amber colored cat's eyes, a stream of energy flowed into Adria's. The fires raging in Adria's eyes were quickly extinguished. Crippling pain coursed through Adria's chest, as the Wraith form of Harbinger drained the very essence of Adria's energy form. Energy, flowing from Harbinger's eyes into her own, brought images to Adria, as if she were seeing them herself. Scene after scene of Harbinger leaching the lives of defenseless humans and feasting upon their life force was experienced first hand. Each death Adria experienced sapped her strength. A scream quickly changed into a pitiful gurgle, as Adria wished for mercy and release from her suffering. As the energy composing Adria was absorbed by Harbinger, the Orici began to fade from view. Minutes later, Adria faded entirely from view, and was no more. The last of the Ori slain, Ancient's ringing this contest to the death ceased their chanting. As they did, Harbinger returned to the form of Hippaforalkus.
"It is done." Hippaforalkus proclaimed.
"How is this possible?" Ganos Lal asked in trepidation.
"My transformation into the Harbinger?" Hippaforalkus asked.
"Yes!" Ganos stammered.
"Only through the combined power of all ascended Ancient's was this possible. My old friend, you are now freed from your battle. Your exile is at its end." Hippaforalkus explained.
Pentagon
Earth
Milky Way Galaxy
In the outer area of the Pentagon's E ring, General Jack O'Neill sat at his desk. Performing a task he had always loathed at the most basic of levels, General O'Neill busied himself attending to the never ending pile of paperwork that always seemed to grow whenever Jack blinked. Some of this paperwork revolved around day-to-day operations of the United States military. Other items, which Jack had saved until last, were of a more personal nature. After first reviewing reports regarding what was now being called the Langaran Uprising, Jack signed off on transferring the overall investigation to outside government agencies. This investigation was one that would take more time than the General liked.
As today's pile of paperwork dwindled and disappeared, General O'Neill turned his focus to the two items he had earlier set aside. The first was a personnel reassignment order. Coming directly from the desk of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, this transfer order was not one anyone would dare question, atleast within the Pentagon. Knowing that outside forces might, Jack had resided himself to crossing that bridge when and if he came to it. Putting pen to paper, Jack added his signature to the bottom of the order. It was now official; Colonel John Sheppard would now be reassigned to permanent duty with the Intelligence Support Activity. As a unit that existed without being officially admitted to, the ISA was the perfect place to administratively hide Sheppard for the time being. A call over secure lines to the ISA had ensured the receiving unit understood, unofficially of course, the deal.
Moving on to his last matter to deal with, General O'Neill removed a leave form from a file on his desk. Removing the form, Jack placed the single sheet of paper on his desk blotter. Consulting a calendar for a few moments, Jack checked and rechecked which dates he wished for his period of leave. While Jack always appreciated time away from his career, this period of leave would not be spent fishing at his cabin in Minnesota. This time, he would enjoy the sights around Washington DC, and possibly other areas around the country. Accompanying him for this would be two who were close to Jack, yet only one of which Jack actually knew. Laira would be making the journey from Edora, aboard a cargo transport bringing minerals mined from the Tau'ri mining concern found on that planet. With her, Laira would bring her youngest son Homer, who was fathered years before during Jack's time marooned on Edora after a meteor shower buried the gate. It had been many years since the death of Jack's son Charlie, and Jack was ready to take his son to Disneyland, or possibly a late season Redskins game. To say O'Neill was excited would be an understatement of epic proportions.
Signing his leave form, Jack returned it to the manila folder for which he had taken it. His administrative tasks done for now, Jack collected his finished pile of pain, and placed it happily in the outbox on a corner of his highly polished desk. Lifting his cup of coffee from the desk, General O'Neill sipped the now tepid beverage, and leaned back in his comfortable office chair. Turning his gaze to the holographic display on his office wall, the General turned his full attention to the events unfolding on CSPAN. A Senate hearing of some sort filled the screen. From the look of it, Senator Carl Strom had lost any semblance of control over the hearing covering recent self driving automobile legislation. Three men, whom were more widely known as the hosts of the popular British television show Top Gear, reveled at the chance to publicly mock Strom, and express their desire for exceptions to be added to the legislation in question. Strom, looking as if someone had kicked his puppy, busied himself trying to find any excuse to step away from the televised hearing. Strom's annoyance and discomfort buoyed Jack's mood, and brought a smile to his face.
Distracting Jack from Strom's suffering, the outer office door opened. Entering Jack's inner office were two men the General knew well, and spoke with often. Retirement had been good to these two men, and it showed. Rising from his seat, Jack extended a hand to both, and welcomed the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, America's last President. Francis Maynard and Henry Hayes both took a seat, and declined the offer of coffee by their host.
"How goes life in the land of the retired?" Jack asked.
"Busy actually. I just returned from my stay at Shambhala. The former Prime Minister's of the United Kingdom and France and myself busied ourselves strengthening ties with our allies in the United Worlds. Next, I am off to the Asgard home world, to sit down for consultations with their High Council." Henry Hayes explained.
"That sounds like a lot of work. Why not enjoy your retirement?" Jack asked honestly.
"Fishing is your hobby, isn't it? I am a lousy fisherman. This is my hobby." Hayes said, with his characteristic smile.
"Now that I am retired, my wife looks for any reason to get me out of the house, but you already knew that. The rumors I keep hearing on events in the galaxy tell me I retired at the right time." Maynard stated.
"Is it as bad out there as the rumors suggest Jack?" Hayes asked.
"I suppose that depends on who you talk to. To ask the current administration, things are great in the galaxy. Maybe I missed the memo, but the White House seems to think that war is a thing of the past, and everyone loves us while enjoying his or her puppy and an ice cream cone. Between us, that is not the case. We are off the record here, right?" Jack asked.
"Always." Hayes replied as Maynard nodded.
"Things in the galaxy are bad. The stove is one, and the water is simmering before it boils over. Secretary Landry and I have poured our hearts into building a military that can meet any threat, but the White House seems to think that we should never use force. We are up against a very smart enemy, and that enemy is busy starting fires that we are forced to put out. Despite that, the current administration refuses to acknowledge that we have an enemy at all." Jack explained disgustedly.
"When President O'Bannon was my Vice President, he had a steady hand. It is difficult to think he changed after moving into the big seat." Hayes objected.
"President O'Bannon is not the problem. It is his Chief of Staff." Jack further explained.
"Him? Now he is a problem, and always ways. Never met a man smugger than that one." Hayes replied with a laugh.
"This recent episode on Langara, is it related to the troubles you mentioned?" Maynard asked.
"Langara and Tagrea were both the result of Lucian Alliance meddling. This is only going to get worse if we refuse to take the fight to their shores." Jack pointed out.
"What are you going to do?" Maynard inquired.
"What I do best; find a loophole and run with it." Jack said hopefully.
"I will have a talk with President O'Bannon, and see if I can get you some leverage. One of the perks of being a former President is that the current one always takes my phone calls." Hayes smiled.
"I see you have CSPAN on. Still having trouble with Strom?" Maynard asked.
"He is still a pain, but he thrives on being a problem. The next few weeks should be interesting for the fair Senator from New York. Secrets in this town have a way of not remaining secret. When that happens, things can easily come back to haunt you." Jack laughed.
Arkos Shipyard
Sol Solar System
Milky Way Galaxy
Within Arkos Shipyard, the task of ship maintenance and construction continued, as it did each day, at a breakneck pace. Ship berths recently occupied by Athena Class heavy cruisers, were now host to new construction. The completion of the Athena Class refit made this possible. In these berths, six vessels of a design created for the Ancient Fleet were beginning to take shape. These Aurora Class vessels, containing destructive power only outmatched by vessels of the Tau'ri and Asgard Fleets, would serve in an allied fleet. Destined for the ever growing Replicator Fleet, these vessels would further expand allied reach within several galaxies.
Many levels below the Aurora's undergoing the construction process, a much larger vessel sat. USS Prometheus, first of the current Tau'ri space faring super carriers, sat at dock. Undergoing a refit herself, Prometheus was losing certain capabilities, while gaining others. Addition of the gifted Furling weapon, along with the introduction of a new Tau'ri weapons system, convinced the US Navy who operated Prometheus to conduct an experiment with the vessel. Capable of carrying and deploying both piloted 302's and their unmanned UCAV platforms, USS Prometheus would now forego carrying and launch capacity for the manned contingent of her embarked Carrier Air Group.
Arachnid form construction robots swarmed within the lowest two launch and recovery decks of the large carrier. Launch and recovery gear, as well as armament storage area and internal aircraft revetments were all removed. Aircraft elevators at the rear of both bottom launch decks would remain, as their form and function could be used for the coming upgrade. Antiskid deck plating was also removed, while internal shield generators were installed along the four sides of both launch and recovery bays.
As internal shield generators were installed, other construction robots installed miles of power conduits. Along the area once used for aircraft launch and recovery, massive trinium braces were added to each deck. These braces, curved at the top of each, would brace the weapons system to be installed. Every addition being added to USS Prometheus was only done to prepare for the addition of a system only found on the new Ascension Class vessels, and that system was known to the Tau'ri as Hellstorm. When complete, USS Prometheus would contain four of these new and highly lethal weapons.
Several levels above the stationary form of Prometheus, the three newly constructed vessels of the Ascension Class were preparing for departure. Ascension, Equinox, and Neil Armstrong would soon depart for their initial shakedown cruises, to be followed by validation testing, validation, and weapons certification. When inducted into fleet service, these three vessels would be the most powerful warship the Tau'ri had ever designed, built, and possessed. Operating alone, or in a group, the vessels of the Ascension Class would pose as a frightening opponent to any who dared face them.
Several levels above the docked Ascension Class vessels, in an area of Arkos normally reserved for construction and repair of Improved Daedalus Class vessels, eight vessels departed. An updated version of the BC-303 design, of which the first USS Prometheus had been the only example constructed, these eight vessels were the sum total of the Alba Longa interstellar fleet. Crewed by Alba Longan crews, these vessels had recently been validated, and certified for handover. Each member of the eight crews was honored and excited by their new postings, and their new ships. Never before had Alba Longa had such vessels. These would soon serve as the Alba Longan addition to allied operations within this galaxy, or others.
Putting on a show of sorts, for anyone watching within Arkos, each BC-303 silently reversed out of their docking point in unison. As each vessel cleared its berth, the eight vessels began to swing their bow to port. Coming to a halt in a single file line of ships, external lighting illuminated the exteriors of each vessel, and the Alba Longan flag etched on each. Aware that the Alba Longan's were indeed putting on a show, personnel throughout Arkos lined the many walkways leading to the shipyards exit, and raised a salute to render honors to a departing and valued ally. From the public address system in all corners of Arkos Station, a booming voice rang out.
"Alba Longan Fleet departing."
In line, the eight identical vessels of the Alba Longan Fleet proceeded towards the large energy shield separating the interior of Arkos from lifeless space. Passing through this energy screen, these vessels continued on their course leading away from the Tau'ri fleet station, powered forward by their subspace engines. Reaching the ninety thousand kilometer mark away from Arkos, this line of ships engaged their hyper drive's, and raced away from the Tau'ri home system through subspace on a journey that would carry them home.
Alba Longa
Alba Longan Solar System
Milky Way Galaxy
One hundred and seventy five thousand kilometers from the upper reaches of the Alba Longan atmosphere, a massive hyperspace window tore open the fabric of space. From this gaping inter-dimensional doorway, three large and sleek vessels emerged. Each an example of the design known to the Tau'ri as the BC-311, these interstellar vessels defined the cutting edge of ship construction, and graceful lines. Returned to normal space, these vessels engaged their sublight drives, and moved forward to Alba Longa.
Moments later, a second hyperspace window once more tore open the fabric of space. From this dimensional rift, the eight newly commissioned vessels of the Alba Longan Fleet emerged. Taking their first steps in this their home solar system, these vessels also engaged their sublight engines. While the Alba Longan Fleet had departed the Tau'ri home solar system first, the massive speed advantage enjoyed by the BC-311's had ensured their earlier arrival. This near simultaneous arrival of the two groups of vessels was unplanned, but convenient for Alba Longan defense fighters on station to escort the newly arrived vessels to the ground below.
Following instructions relayed from ground control, both groups of vessels fell into a long line. Flanking either side of this line of ships were dark colored interceptors, closely resembling the Goa'uld Death Glider design. While the 303's were coming home for the first time, the 311's were delivering diplomatic personnel to Earth's newest embassy among the stars of this galaxy.
In a staggered line, the eleven vessels under escort descended into the Alba Longan atmosphere. Aboard 303's, crewmembers rejoiced at their return to the world of their birth. Onboard 311's, diplomatic and embassy personnel readied themselves for arrival. Passing through the sixty thousand feet mark of altitude above the Alba Longan landscape, escorting fighters broke away, and returned to their patrol station outside the planets atmosphere.
Shedding altitude at a rapid pace, each of the eleven vessels began to also rapidly shed velocity. Gliding silently over the Alba Longan capital, those on the streets below stopped what they were doing to take in the sight. Some, seeing this sight cheered, while still others clapped. For many, knowledge that a fleet of their own had arrived was an emotionally charged.
Passing over the capital, the group of eleven vessels broke into two separate elements. 311's continued on towards the area of the Campus Martius nearest the Embassy of Earth. 303's angled towards a separate corner of the Campus Martius, to a large compound recently constructed by the German Athena Class vessel Gneisenau. Coming to a halt above this compound, each of the eight 303's descended in place to their individual docking points. This newest fleet within the worlds of the Milky Way galaxy was now home.
The three 311's, painted individually in the national colors of their nations of ownership, slowed above the green fields of the Campus Martius. Sunlight glinted off each of the three vessels, as each transitioned to a stationary hove, and then slowly descended to a position of twenty five feet above the Campus Martius. Around this designated landing area, members of Alba Longa's Senate, and prominent members of local society waited.
Moments later, thin beams of energy emanated from the bottom area of each 311's forward outer door. The same was seen from the area directly beneath the tail of each vessel. As hatches on each vessel opened, these beams of energy, which were very similar to the vessels protective shielding system, took on the form of stairways, leading to the ground below. Beneath each vessel, the audible and visual signature of an Asgard transport beam depositing luggage and cargo was heard and seen by all.
As embassy personnel deplaned, applause erupted from the gathered welcoming party. Horns sounded, and people cheered as embassy staff took their first steps on this world. At the front of the gathered crowd of welcoming Alba Longan's stood Consul Fulvious Flavius. Beside the Consul stood Aulus Scribonius, Priest of Portunes. Scribonius, leaning towards the Consul, began to speak.
"Consul, I have a request." Scribonius began.
"On this joyous day, I am inclined to grant almost any request you make." Flavius responded jovially.
"With your permission, I ask that you allow me to travel to Earth." Scribonius requested.
"To see Rome perhaps?" Consul Flavius questioned.
"I have had visions. To fully interpret the meaning of these visions, I need the council of one Daniel Jackson." Scribonius explained sheepishly.
"Tonight, we will attend the festivities at the Embassy of Earth. Make your request to them, and I will ask that they allow your visit." Flavius promised.
Star Gate Command, Cheyenne Mountain
Earth
Milky Way Galaxy
Following the temporary transfer of gate operations to Borealis in San Francisco Bay, and subsequent resumption of gate operations beneath Cheyenne Mountain, suspicion spread throughout the staff of the once top-secret subterranean facility. Though no smoking gun was found, many were left pondering what had brought about the sudden transfer of gate operations. As happens often in large groups, rumors cropped up quickly. After several days of widespread gossip, these rumors quickly turned into silent suspicions voiced conspiratorially in the mess hall, over blue jello.
Sitting in his lab, as he often had during his long and storied career with the SGC, Daniel Jackson sorted through boxes stacked all around the room. These boxes contained the tools of a profession, which for Jackson, bordered on a passion and obsession. Sorting through individual boxes, Daniel pieced together the archeological field kit he had built in his mind. As a member of SG-1, it had been a rare occurrence when Jackson could carry a full field excavation kit with him. His next jaunt into the field would allow for that this time, which greatly pleased Daniel.
Fully engrossed in his current task, Daniel failed to notice the two men watching him through the open doorway. Patiently, the two men standing in the doorway observed Jackson without interruption. Realizing that the archeologist was well and truly engrossed in what he was doing, the older of the two men cleared his throat. When that failed to garner Jackson's attention, Papal Nuncio Pietro Martinelli rapt a knuckle on the metal door. Finally taking note of Martinelli and his companion, Jackson graciously turned his full attention to the two men.
"Please come in Your Eminence." Jackson invited.
"So good to see you again Doctor Jackson. Forgive my interruption." Martinelli requested.
Motioning towards the workstation in the center of the lab space, the Papal Nuncio instructed his companion where to set the case in his hands. Carefully, and with reverence, the companion of the Vatican's Ambassador to the United States delicately placed a locked case on the workspace. Martinelli motioned for the companion to wait outside, so the Papal Nuncio and Daniel Jackson could speak privately.
"Is that what I think it is Your Eminence?" Daniel asked.
"If you believe it to be the spear that pierced the side of Christ, then yes." Martinelli responded.
"This will greatly assist in my research. Thank you for this." Jackson offered.
"The spear will depart with me tomorrow night. You have until then to examine the relic at your leisure. Thanks are not needed. Allowing you access to the spear is our way of giving thanks for the opportunity you have allowed the Church." Martinelli explained.
"You mean access to Kheb?" Jackson asked.
"Yes, and we owe you our thanks. The monastery there is performing fantastic missionary work in the galaxy. Our effort to educate natives from other worlds is progressing well also." Martinelli recounted.
"The people of this galaxy need every helping hand they can get. It is important that your clergy on Kheb remember the galaxy is a very dangerous place." Jackson reminded.
"That is why we have a detachment of Swiss Guard permanently assigned to the monastery." Martinelli pointed out.
"I always believed the Swiss Guard to be ceremonial in nature." Daniel stated.
"That is a belief we promote, for obvious reasons. May I ask you are packing?" Martinelli asked, pointing at the pile of items on the desk.
"I was actually putting together my excavation kit when you arrived. This is the kit I will take with me to Celestis. Has the Vatican decided on a representative they will be sending on the Church's behalf for this trip?" Jackson inquired.
"They have. Due to the unique circumstances of your governments admission of the gate program to me before disclosure, the Holy See felt it best if I acted as representative on this journey." Martinelli explained.
"I believe this trip will be a real eye opener for you. One bit of advice is to pack everything you think you might need." Daniel suggested.