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Life Sure Ain't Ever Easy... Part 3
Wordcount: 3,580
wordcount in all: 8,239
You know the drill... WIP, sequel to 'Tales to Tell Your Grandchildren', sap alert *g*
previous parts...
----
Jack made his way back to the cottage, following the narrow trail through the forest, his catch of two fish dangling from one hand. This sure beat the fish-less lake by the cabin. Not that Jack would ever admit to there being no fish, at least not out loud. It wasn't the fish; it was the act, the art of fishing. For a moment Jack entertained the idea of living with Daniel and Aislinn in the cabin... that was if they ever did return to Earth...
Jack hesitated for a moment as he heard voices ahead. Familiar, more than welcome voices. One light, female and one darker, deeper male voice. Picking up pace Jack was almost running when he came to a clearing near the cottage. A moment later he let go of the fish and accepted the armful of blonde Major rushing over to him.
They hadn't seen their friends since the day they'd left Earth and frankly, Jack had missed the two of them.
"Easy, Cater, I need to breathe as well," grinned Jack.
Carter took a quick step back, letting go of him. "Sorry, sir... it's just, we've..."
Jack nodded. "Yeah, we've missed you guys too." Jack squeezed her shoulder as he took a step to the side to accept the steel like grip from Teal'c. Jack had long since learned the trick of this grip, grabbing the other man's lower arm, not showing any pain. He was sure that somewhere this was a way to determine your opponent's strength, though why Teal'c had to always test it on him; was beyond Jack's comprehension. Maybe it was Jaffa humor, who knew?
"O'Neill, it is good to see you again, my friend," Teal'c said with what passed for a huge grin from him.
Likewise, T, likewise... how are things back on Earth and what the hell are you doing here?" Jack grinned broadly. He couldn't top doing so. It felt good to have the team back together.
"Hectic and rather chaotic at the moment, sir," interrupted Cater. "We've had the Asgard breathing down our necks and this morning the Nox came knocking, asking for Teal'c and me to come along."
Jack raised and eyebrow as he followed his two friends back to the cottage. "Daniel?" he called, hoisting the fish up and hanging them on a nail in one of the carrying posts. "Daaaaniel? Where are ya, we've got guests." A moment later Daniel came outside and for a split second Jack feared the man's eyes would fall out of their sockets. He just stood still, staring at them; then started smiling as he accepted an exuberant hug from Sam and an enthusiastic handshake from Teal'c.
"Sit, please," interrupted Jack, pointing towards the makeshift bench and table he'd made a couple of months ago. Nothing much, just an old cleaved trunk of an old dead tree propped up on four thick logs; surrounded by six equally thick, but shorter logs that served as seating. Grinning, Jack let his team get reacquainted without him for a little while, as he set out to clean the fish he'd caught. Looked like, for once, they had dinner guests.
Jack didn't have to look up to see whom the looming shadow belonged to, as he sat the fish aside and disposed of the inedible parts. "So, Teal'c, I take it it's not a simple friendly visit."
"You are correct, O'Neill, though I believe it would be better explained with both you and DanielJackson attending." The dark skinned man gave him his own equivalent of a smile as Jack looked up.
"I say we prepare dinner first; then we talk." Jack waved his hand as Teal'c opened his mouth to argue. "Ah-ah, T, no argument."
The larger man nodded, accepting Jack's words.
Jack couldn't help smiling again. Half a year and Teal'c still took his orders at face value... though of course it hadn't much to do with chain of command, but far more the fact that Teal'c respected Jack. Something that never ceased to amaze Jack and it made him strive to be the image that Teal'c had of him. Between being what his team expected him to be and what the man he loved expected of him as well. Well, Jack O'Neill preferred to think of himself as a man with more than one moral guardian. And as much as he'd never admit it, as much as it could be a royal pain in the... mikta, Jack tried to grow with the added responsibility, sometimes succeeding, sometimes failing, though it never truly seemed to make his team's trust in him waver much.
Sure, Teal'c expected him to be the warrior and brother. Carter saw him as CO and teacher... or maybe, sometimes when Jack's ego had a good day, mentor. But it was nothing compared to what Daniel expected of him... though it was a burden Jack gladly carried. Sure, to him Jack was team leader, protector... but above all that he was his companion for life, taken by choice, accepted with open arms... the father of their child.
"Are you okay, O'Neill?" asked Teal'c, giving him a strange look.
Jack realized he'd zoned out for a moment. "Nah, Teal'c, don't worry, just...thinking..." Straightening up, he called for Daniel. "You wanna do the cooking, Daniel?"
"You can prepare the fish, Jack; I've already put the vegetables in the pots." Daniel waved at him, letting him know that he could just carry on what he was doing. Jack snorted; he should've never let Daniel know that he could actually cook.
"Go sit with Daniel and Carter, Teal'c, I'll be over in a few minutes." Jack shooed the Jaffa away.
Teal'c cocked an eyebrow but did as he was asked.
Jack set about his job as he wrapped the fish in the leaves from one of the huge trees that grew so conveniently nearby, before he carefully lowered them down into the embers at the edge of the fire Daniel was using for cooking the vegetables. Taking a deep breath he stood back up and headed back to the table. As much as he'd been wishing for a little more action, he knew where his priorities were now... and they had most definitely changed. He wasn't about to make the same mistake that he'd made with his marriage to Sara... or to repeat the... mistake with Charlie... he'd make sure that not only would Daniel always be safe, so would Aislinn. And he was positive they'd find a way to help their little girl. They had to... failure just wasn't an option.
"So," Carter asked curiously as Jack sat down. "Where's the baby?"
Before either man could answer, they were interrupted by the sound of running feet. Out from the tree line burst Aislinn, coming full stop as she realized her parents weren't alone. With a look of curiosity she slowly moved closer, slipping in between Jack and Daniel. She seemed a little wary of the attention she was getting from both Carter and Teal'c, but otherwise she looked as if curiosity was winning out.
Jack quirked a smile as he swung the little girl up to sit in his lap, leaning her back against his chest. "Aislinn, I'd like you to meet Sam and Teal'c." He pointed at each as he said their names. "Guys, this is Aislinn, our... daughter."
Carter's eyes were wide with wonder, swirling with questions and Teal'c eyebrow climbed to never before seen altitudes. A process that seemed to captivate Aislinn's attention.
"Theoretically," grinned Daniel, "I guess you could see Sam and Teal'c as uncle and aunt... a bit like you see Lya, Aislinn."
As if summoned by her name, the Nox came out of the woods, heading for them with a wide smile on her face.
Aislinn stayed with Jack until her curiosity got the better of her and she slipped down and around the table to stand in front of Carter. Sam seemed a little unsettled by the scrutiny she was put under. Jack hid a smile when Aislinn lit up and gave Sam a quick hug.
The touching and hugging was probably Jack's fault. Not having to hold back with Daniel, Jack touched a lot. He'd always done that, offering reassurance, showing his feelings and as Aislinn had grown, Jack hadn't held back with her and to his joy he'd noticed that Daniel seemed to let go more often. At first merely receiving from the girl, who'd quickly taken to the art of hugging and cuddling like a true master. Man, was Jack proud of her. Between her and Jack, no one would ever be able to withstand their charm, least of all Daniel. As it was now, Daniel would touch almost as much as Jack did and physical touch for reassurance seemed to have become as important as their daily meals.
Carter managed to return the hug before Aislinn moved to stand next to Teal'c, who turned to face her, a grave expression on his face. Aislinn kept her examination up for almost an entire minute, before she seemed satisfied and rewarded the huge Jaffa with a hug that the man returned, dark eyes sparkling.
Aislinn continued around the table until she came to Daniel, who put his arm around her, giving her an approving smile.
"Sir, she's..." Carter began.
Lya nodded. She'd been watching the little exchange with great curiosity. "Aislinn is growing much faster than humans normally do."
Aislinn didn't say anything, but her clear blue eyes told Jack that she was listening. Lya had told them to not hide the problem from the little girl, that she was far better off knowing what they could tell her than finding out on her own.
They chatted about this and that as dinner cooked and Lya excused herself, promising that she'd be back later. As dinner was on the table, Jack turned to Cater to finally ask. "So, why are you guys here?" Grinning he continued. "Not that we mind, but somehow having the Nox bring you here... well, color me pessimistic, but I get the feeling we won't very much like it."
"The Asgard came this morning, asking for us to bring you back to Earth." Teal'c answered as Carter was caught with her mouth full.
"Why didn't they just swing by here?" asked Daniel, as he filled up Aislinn's plate and received a quiet 'thank you'.
"Seems so, sir," said Carter, "that the treaty between them prohibits Asgard ships to come even near the Nox home-world."
"Oh?" Jack wasn't overly surprised. As much as the Nox and Asgard kept babbling about humans being children, well, it seemed that at least at some point the... 'higher' races hadn't been getting along either.
"So, how are you guys doing?" Jack gestured at both Carter and Teal'c. "Still running a team of some kind?"
"We've kept SG1 running, sir," Carter explained. "We've even gotten ourselves a third member."
"So, you're only three?" Jack raised an eyebrow.
"Well, all we really needed was a cultural expert to complete the picture and for about a month they tried to set us up with various team leaders, until Hammond lost his patience and turned it over to me," grinned Cater.
"And the cultural expert?" Daniel asked.
"Well, expert and expert, he's learning. Just before you left a team of diplomats were sent to Kelowna. There was some kind of accident and one of our men was saddled with the accusation of assassinating the first minister." Carter shrugged. "It ended badly, but we got our team home and with it Jonas Quinn who'd helped them escape. Safe to say we don't have any diplomatic relations with Kelowna anymore."
"But you trust this... Jonas Quinn?" Jack quirked an eyebrow. Sure, he was glad this guy had helped their people back, but still... he was an alien and if he'd betrayed once... Jack halted his thoughts with a smile. Right. And what did that make Teal'c? One of the few men Jack trusted so completely? Right, duh, Jack O'Neill jumping to conclusions again. "Congratulations, by the way, Major, you finally got your own command."
"Only temporarily, sir," assured Carter with a smile. "Just keeping the seat warm for you."
Jack shook his head as he gave Daniel a little sideways glance. "I don't think so, Carter, I've got... other obligations now, other... priorities. Besides, I'm sure you're doing a wonderful job."
"She is indeed, O'Neill." Teal'c spoke up, giving Jack an approving look. The Jaffa seemed to have expected this from Jack and was in no way disappointed.
"We can't to traipsing around the Galaxy, looking for trouble when we have a child to take care of." Jack grinned as he caught Aislinn looking at him, head lowered and peeking out through her bangs. She knew perfectly well when the talk came to her. There was no way Jack could ever bring himself to leave another child behind. He'd missed so much of Charlie's childhood and before he'd known it, it had been too late. Besides, Daniel wouldn't want to go risking his life either and Jack had a strong feeling Daniel would give him hell if Jack as much as tried to lead a field team again.
"So... we go back to Earth, talk to the Asgard, and while we're at it, we let them look at Aislinn," Daniel finished.
Jack squirmed in his seat. "I don't like the idea of bringing Aislinn back with us."
Daniel turned his head and raised an eyebrow. "You want to leave her here?"
"She'd be safer with Lya than she would be with us." Jack knew he was losing even before they got the discussion started. Daniel was right. They should let the Asgard have a look at Aislinn, maybe the little grey guys could figure out a way to stop the rapid growth.
"Then I'm staying too," Daniel said with an edge to his voice.
"Daniel..." Jack began, then stopped. The man was right, of course. Jack knew it, but his instinct to protect had kicked in before his heart and brains had. Of course they couldn't leave Aislinn behind. He was no more capable of that than Daniel was. "You're right, of course... but we'll need to come up with a cover story... I'm afraid the NID will still be breathing down our necks."
"Maybe even more than you think, sir," interrupted Carter, giving the two men a soft smile.
"What do you mean?" asked Daniel.
"It'd take some time to explain, and I think Hammond would be a lot better at it than me," Carter shrugged. "It's a lot of political intrigues and such."
"So we return to Earth?" Daniel turned his attention back to Jack, who slowly nodded.
"It seems like it," he agreed. But what kind of cover story could they come up with? How did they explain that they'd left Earth empty handed and returned now, six months later, with a little girl?
They ate in silence and when they had finished, the dishes were cleaned and Jack was putting it all into the house, he stopped for a moment, watching Cater and Daniel talk animatedly together, Aislinn close to Daniel watching them both with rapt attention.
"She is an intelligent child," Teal'c said in a low voice, almost making Jack jump.
"That she is, she definitely takes after Daniel." Jack smiled as he noticed that Aislinn had started asking questions. Daniel never turned her away when she asked, he always tried to find a way to explain things to her.
"She had a few of your traits as well, O'Neill, of that I'm sure."
Jack wondered for a moment if Teal'c was joking; then shrugged. "With my luck it'll be my attitude," he grinned.
"Do not belittle yourself, O'Neill, as much as you hide your true nature, you will make a good father to her... as will DanielJackson." Teal'c large hand descended upon Jack's shoulder, lending him a little support... not that Jack needed it... right?
Clearing his throat Jack smiled at his old friend. "You're probably right, Teal'c." As they both walked out the door, they saw Lya coming out of the forest. Jack smiled. He'd really taken to liking these people. Never in a hurry, never hung up on things like memos and reports.
They sat down outside, in the grass, enjoying the warm air of the early evening. Jack leaning back against the trunk of a tree and Daniel seated firmly between his legs, resting back against him. No need to change their ways as long as they were here and since both Carter and Teal'c knew about them. Aislinn sat down between the two of them and Lya, all eyes on the little Nox.
"I believe the Asgard may be able to help you," she said to Jack and Daniel, giving Aislinn a little smile.
Jack nodded. "Yeah, but I'm still a little worried about returning to earth with Aislinn."
"Daniel explained a few of the things that might give you trouble if you returned." Lya frowned. "As much as he managed to explain it, I still do not fully understand why humans would act this way."
Daniel shrugged, sighing as Jack began kneading the muscles of his back. Which Jack was, of course, only doing to please Daniel... "We are, as you yourself once said; still young as a race... one can only hope we will eventually learn."
"We still need a way to explain Aislinn's presence," Jack said as he slipped his arms down and around Daniel's waist, resting his chin on the other man's shoulder.
"In that case we may be able to help," offered Lya.
"How so?" asked Carter.
"Tell them we found a human child a while ago, that we asked you to take care of her as she was of your kind and not ours." She turned her attention to Aislinn. "You would have to keep her birth a secret, I'm afraid, but it would protect her against a lot, I believe."
"But they still might try to take her form us," argued Daniel, worry tensing up his spine.
"Then we'll leave again," said Jack, smiling as Aislinn sidled closer to lean against his side. "Aislinn is staying with us, or we'll be off Earth faster than you can say NID." He slipped an arm around Aislinn who willingly leaned closer.
"Do you have anything you need to pack, sir?" asked Carter. "I'm sorry, but we promised we'd return to the SGC as fast as possible."
Jack shook his head. They hadn't really got much in this place... at least nothing tangible... all there was were memories and they'd be bringing those with them... wherever they were going.
"Aislinn..." Daniel turned a little to look at their daughter. "Go pack your bag if there is anything you want to bring."
"Are we going far away?" the little girl asked.
"Very far away," agreed Daniel. "Through the Stargate I showed you a little while back."
Aislinn was on her feet in no time, giving them a brilliant smile. "Sweet," she exclaimed as she ran for the house.
Daniel turned his head a little, trying to look at Jack, who merely grinned and planted a kiss on his cheek. He wasn't going to argue Aislinn's vocabulary with the man again. At least not until they were alone again in a soundproof room. Turning back to their guests, Jack noticed the smiles on their faces as well.
Lya stood and gave them a nod. "I shall meet you at the Stargate before you leave." And before any of them could do or say anything she was gone.
The four of them stood and a moment later Aislinn joined them, slinging her back pack over her shoulder, looking as ready as a little child could, and Jack knew which part of both him and Daniel she was taking after. Her eyes were shining with the prospects of adventure.
They began their trek towards the Stargate, Aislinn ahead of them, almost skipping along, followed by Carter and Daniel who were discussing the Nox and what Daniel had learned. Jack and Teal'c silently brought up the back troop of their little party.
Once at the 'Gate, Jack stood still, turned back and looked out over the land that had been their home for the past six months... He'd miss it, miss the people... speaking of...
A moment later both Nefrayu and Lya were with them, standing in front of the large circular structure. Lya activated the Stargate and Jack was once again amazed how they did this without the usual release of energy. The 'Gate was simply suddenly active. Carter sent their signal through and they prepared to follow.
"Take this," Lya held out a small device. "With this you can contact us if needed."
"I don't know what to say," Daniel smiled sadly at the Nox. "We'll miss you."
"As will we, Daniel." Lya gave them each a hug, favoring Aislinn with the longest. The little girl would most definitely be missed. Waving goodbye the five of them went up the steps to the shimmering surface of the 'Gate.
"Another adventure?" asked Daniel as he took Aislinn's hand.
Jack took the other small hand, keeping the child between them before he leaned over and gave Daniel a long lingering kiss. "It would seem so..." Taking a deep breath the three of them followed Carter and Teal'c though the wormhole.
---
TBC
wordcount in all: 8,239
You know the drill... WIP, sequel to 'Tales to Tell Your Grandchildren', sap alert *g*
previous parts...
----
Jack made his way back to the cottage, following the narrow trail through the forest, his catch of two fish dangling from one hand. This sure beat the fish-less lake by the cabin. Not that Jack would ever admit to there being no fish, at least not out loud. It wasn't the fish; it was the act, the art of fishing. For a moment Jack entertained the idea of living with Daniel and Aislinn in the cabin... that was if they ever did return to Earth...
Jack hesitated for a moment as he heard voices ahead. Familiar, more than welcome voices. One light, female and one darker, deeper male voice. Picking up pace Jack was almost running when he came to a clearing near the cottage. A moment later he let go of the fish and accepted the armful of blonde Major rushing over to him.
They hadn't seen their friends since the day they'd left Earth and frankly, Jack had missed the two of them.
"Easy, Cater, I need to breathe as well," grinned Jack.
Carter took a quick step back, letting go of him. "Sorry, sir... it's just, we've..."
Jack nodded. "Yeah, we've missed you guys too." Jack squeezed her shoulder as he took a step to the side to accept the steel like grip from Teal'c. Jack had long since learned the trick of this grip, grabbing the other man's lower arm, not showing any pain. He was sure that somewhere this was a way to determine your opponent's strength, though why Teal'c had to always test it on him; was beyond Jack's comprehension. Maybe it was Jaffa humor, who knew?
"O'Neill, it is good to see you again, my friend," Teal'c said with what passed for a huge grin from him.
Likewise, T, likewise... how are things back on Earth and what the hell are you doing here?" Jack grinned broadly. He couldn't top doing so. It felt good to have the team back together.
"Hectic and rather chaotic at the moment, sir," interrupted Cater. "We've had the Asgard breathing down our necks and this morning the Nox came knocking, asking for Teal'c and me to come along."
Jack raised and eyebrow as he followed his two friends back to the cottage. "Daniel?" he called, hoisting the fish up and hanging them on a nail in one of the carrying posts. "Daaaaniel? Where are ya, we've got guests." A moment later Daniel came outside and for a split second Jack feared the man's eyes would fall out of their sockets. He just stood still, staring at them; then started smiling as he accepted an exuberant hug from Sam and an enthusiastic handshake from Teal'c.
"Sit, please," interrupted Jack, pointing towards the makeshift bench and table he'd made a couple of months ago. Nothing much, just an old cleaved trunk of an old dead tree propped up on four thick logs; surrounded by six equally thick, but shorter logs that served as seating. Grinning, Jack let his team get reacquainted without him for a little while, as he set out to clean the fish he'd caught. Looked like, for once, they had dinner guests.
Jack didn't have to look up to see whom the looming shadow belonged to, as he sat the fish aside and disposed of the inedible parts. "So, Teal'c, I take it it's not a simple friendly visit."
"You are correct, O'Neill, though I believe it would be better explained with both you and DanielJackson attending." The dark skinned man gave him his own equivalent of a smile as Jack looked up.
"I say we prepare dinner first; then we talk." Jack waved his hand as Teal'c opened his mouth to argue. "Ah-ah, T, no argument."
The larger man nodded, accepting Jack's words.
Jack couldn't help smiling again. Half a year and Teal'c still took his orders at face value... though of course it hadn't much to do with chain of command, but far more the fact that Teal'c respected Jack. Something that never ceased to amaze Jack and it made him strive to be the image that Teal'c had of him. Between being what his team expected him to be and what the man he loved expected of him as well. Well, Jack O'Neill preferred to think of himself as a man with more than one moral guardian. And as much as he'd never admit it, as much as it could be a royal pain in the... mikta, Jack tried to grow with the added responsibility, sometimes succeeding, sometimes failing, though it never truly seemed to make his team's trust in him waver much.
Sure, Teal'c expected him to be the warrior and brother. Carter saw him as CO and teacher... or maybe, sometimes when Jack's ego had a good day, mentor. But it was nothing compared to what Daniel expected of him... though it was a burden Jack gladly carried. Sure, to him Jack was team leader, protector... but above all that he was his companion for life, taken by choice, accepted with open arms... the father of their child.
"Are you okay, O'Neill?" asked Teal'c, giving him a strange look.
Jack realized he'd zoned out for a moment. "Nah, Teal'c, don't worry, just...thinking..." Straightening up, he called for Daniel. "You wanna do the cooking, Daniel?"
"You can prepare the fish, Jack; I've already put the vegetables in the pots." Daniel waved at him, letting him know that he could just carry on what he was doing. Jack snorted; he should've never let Daniel know that he could actually cook.
"Go sit with Daniel and Carter, Teal'c, I'll be over in a few minutes." Jack shooed the Jaffa away.
Teal'c cocked an eyebrow but did as he was asked.
Jack set about his job as he wrapped the fish in the leaves from one of the huge trees that grew so conveniently nearby, before he carefully lowered them down into the embers at the edge of the fire Daniel was using for cooking the vegetables. Taking a deep breath he stood back up and headed back to the table. As much as he'd been wishing for a little more action, he knew where his priorities were now... and they had most definitely changed. He wasn't about to make the same mistake that he'd made with his marriage to Sara... or to repeat the... mistake with Charlie... he'd make sure that not only would Daniel always be safe, so would Aislinn. And he was positive they'd find a way to help their little girl. They had to... failure just wasn't an option.
"So," Carter asked curiously as Jack sat down. "Where's the baby?"
Before either man could answer, they were interrupted by the sound of running feet. Out from the tree line burst Aislinn, coming full stop as she realized her parents weren't alone. With a look of curiosity she slowly moved closer, slipping in between Jack and Daniel. She seemed a little wary of the attention she was getting from both Carter and Teal'c, but otherwise she looked as if curiosity was winning out.
Jack quirked a smile as he swung the little girl up to sit in his lap, leaning her back against his chest. "Aislinn, I'd like you to meet Sam and Teal'c." He pointed at each as he said their names. "Guys, this is Aislinn, our... daughter."
Carter's eyes were wide with wonder, swirling with questions and Teal'c eyebrow climbed to never before seen altitudes. A process that seemed to captivate Aislinn's attention.
"Theoretically," grinned Daniel, "I guess you could see Sam and Teal'c as uncle and aunt... a bit like you see Lya, Aislinn."
As if summoned by her name, the Nox came out of the woods, heading for them with a wide smile on her face.
Aislinn stayed with Jack until her curiosity got the better of her and she slipped down and around the table to stand in front of Carter. Sam seemed a little unsettled by the scrutiny she was put under. Jack hid a smile when Aislinn lit up and gave Sam a quick hug.
The touching and hugging was probably Jack's fault. Not having to hold back with Daniel, Jack touched a lot. He'd always done that, offering reassurance, showing his feelings and as Aislinn had grown, Jack hadn't held back with her and to his joy he'd noticed that Daniel seemed to let go more often. At first merely receiving from the girl, who'd quickly taken to the art of hugging and cuddling like a true master. Man, was Jack proud of her. Between her and Jack, no one would ever be able to withstand their charm, least of all Daniel. As it was now, Daniel would touch almost as much as Jack did and physical touch for reassurance seemed to have become as important as their daily meals.
Carter managed to return the hug before Aislinn moved to stand next to Teal'c, who turned to face her, a grave expression on his face. Aislinn kept her examination up for almost an entire minute, before she seemed satisfied and rewarded the huge Jaffa with a hug that the man returned, dark eyes sparkling.
Aislinn continued around the table until she came to Daniel, who put his arm around her, giving her an approving smile.
"Sir, she's..." Carter began.
Lya nodded. She'd been watching the little exchange with great curiosity. "Aislinn is growing much faster than humans normally do."
Aislinn didn't say anything, but her clear blue eyes told Jack that she was listening. Lya had told them to not hide the problem from the little girl, that she was far better off knowing what they could tell her than finding out on her own.
They chatted about this and that as dinner cooked and Lya excused herself, promising that she'd be back later. As dinner was on the table, Jack turned to Cater to finally ask. "So, why are you guys here?" Grinning he continued. "Not that we mind, but somehow having the Nox bring you here... well, color me pessimistic, but I get the feeling we won't very much like it."
"The Asgard came this morning, asking for us to bring you back to Earth." Teal'c answered as Carter was caught with her mouth full.
"Why didn't they just swing by here?" asked Daniel, as he filled up Aislinn's plate and received a quiet 'thank you'.
"Seems so, sir," said Carter, "that the treaty between them prohibits Asgard ships to come even near the Nox home-world."
"Oh?" Jack wasn't overly surprised. As much as the Nox and Asgard kept babbling about humans being children, well, it seemed that at least at some point the... 'higher' races hadn't been getting along either.
"So, how are you guys doing?" Jack gestured at both Carter and Teal'c. "Still running a team of some kind?"
"We've kept SG1 running, sir," Carter explained. "We've even gotten ourselves a third member."
"So, you're only three?" Jack raised an eyebrow.
"Well, all we really needed was a cultural expert to complete the picture and for about a month they tried to set us up with various team leaders, until Hammond lost his patience and turned it over to me," grinned Cater.
"And the cultural expert?" Daniel asked.
"Well, expert and expert, he's learning. Just before you left a team of diplomats were sent to Kelowna. There was some kind of accident and one of our men was saddled with the accusation of assassinating the first minister." Carter shrugged. "It ended badly, but we got our team home and with it Jonas Quinn who'd helped them escape. Safe to say we don't have any diplomatic relations with Kelowna anymore."
"But you trust this... Jonas Quinn?" Jack quirked an eyebrow. Sure, he was glad this guy had helped their people back, but still... he was an alien and if he'd betrayed once... Jack halted his thoughts with a smile. Right. And what did that make Teal'c? One of the few men Jack trusted so completely? Right, duh, Jack O'Neill jumping to conclusions again. "Congratulations, by the way, Major, you finally got your own command."
"Only temporarily, sir," assured Carter with a smile. "Just keeping the seat warm for you."
Jack shook his head as he gave Daniel a little sideways glance. "I don't think so, Carter, I've got... other obligations now, other... priorities. Besides, I'm sure you're doing a wonderful job."
"She is indeed, O'Neill." Teal'c spoke up, giving Jack an approving look. The Jaffa seemed to have expected this from Jack and was in no way disappointed.
"We can't to traipsing around the Galaxy, looking for trouble when we have a child to take care of." Jack grinned as he caught Aislinn looking at him, head lowered and peeking out through her bangs. She knew perfectly well when the talk came to her. There was no way Jack could ever bring himself to leave another child behind. He'd missed so much of Charlie's childhood and before he'd known it, it had been too late. Besides, Daniel wouldn't want to go risking his life either and Jack had a strong feeling Daniel would give him hell if Jack as much as tried to lead a field team again.
"So... we go back to Earth, talk to the Asgard, and while we're at it, we let them look at Aislinn," Daniel finished.
Jack squirmed in his seat. "I don't like the idea of bringing Aislinn back with us."
Daniel turned his head and raised an eyebrow. "You want to leave her here?"
"She'd be safer with Lya than she would be with us." Jack knew he was losing even before they got the discussion started. Daniel was right. They should let the Asgard have a look at Aislinn, maybe the little grey guys could figure out a way to stop the rapid growth.
"Then I'm staying too," Daniel said with an edge to his voice.
"Daniel..." Jack began, then stopped. The man was right, of course. Jack knew it, but his instinct to protect had kicked in before his heart and brains had. Of course they couldn't leave Aislinn behind. He was no more capable of that than Daniel was. "You're right, of course... but we'll need to come up with a cover story... I'm afraid the NID will still be breathing down our necks."
"Maybe even more than you think, sir," interrupted Carter, giving the two men a soft smile.
"What do you mean?" asked Daniel.
"It'd take some time to explain, and I think Hammond would be a lot better at it than me," Carter shrugged. "It's a lot of political intrigues and such."
"So we return to Earth?" Daniel turned his attention back to Jack, who slowly nodded.
"It seems like it," he agreed. But what kind of cover story could they come up with? How did they explain that they'd left Earth empty handed and returned now, six months later, with a little girl?
They ate in silence and when they had finished, the dishes were cleaned and Jack was putting it all into the house, he stopped for a moment, watching Cater and Daniel talk animatedly together, Aislinn close to Daniel watching them both with rapt attention.
"She is an intelligent child," Teal'c said in a low voice, almost making Jack jump.
"That she is, she definitely takes after Daniel." Jack smiled as he noticed that Aislinn had started asking questions. Daniel never turned her away when she asked, he always tried to find a way to explain things to her.
"She had a few of your traits as well, O'Neill, of that I'm sure."
Jack wondered for a moment if Teal'c was joking; then shrugged. "With my luck it'll be my attitude," he grinned.
"Do not belittle yourself, O'Neill, as much as you hide your true nature, you will make a good father to her... as will DanielJackson." Teal'c large hand descended upon Jack's shoulder, lending him a little support... not that Jack needed it... right?
Clearing his throat Jack smiled at his old friend. "You're probably right, Teal'c." As they both walked out the door, they saw Lya coming out of the forest. Jack smiled. He'd really taken to liking these people. Never in a hurry, never hung up on things like memos and reports.
They sat down outside, in the grass, enjoying the warm air of the early evening. Jack leaning back against the trunk of a tree and Daniel seated firmly between his legs, resting back against him. No need to change their ways as long as they were here and since both Carter and Teal'c knew about them. Aislinn sat down between the two of them and Lya, all eyes on the little Nox.
"I believe the Asgard may be able to help you," she said to Jack and Daniel, giving Aislinn a little smile.
Jack nodded. "Yeah, but I'm still a little worried about returning to earth with Aislinn."
"Daniel explained a few of the things that might give you trouble if you returned." Lya frowned. "As much as he managed to explain it, I still do not fully understand why humans would act this way."
Daniel shrugged, sighing as Jack began kneading the muscles of his back. Which Jack was, of course, only doing to please Daniel... "We are, as you yourself once said; still young as a race... one can only hope we will eventually learn."
"We still need a way to explain Aislinn's presence," Jack said as he slipped his arms down and around Daniel's waist, resting his chin on the other man's shoulder.
"In that case we may be able to help," offered Lya.
"How so?" asked Carter.
"Tell them we found a human child a while ago, that we asked you to take care of her as she was of your kind and not ours." She turned her attention to Aislinn. "You would have to keep her birth a secret, I'm afraid, but it would protect her against a lot, I believe."
"But they still might try to take her form us," argued Daniel, worry tensing up his spine.
"Then we'll leave again," said Jack, smiling as Aislinn sidled closer to lean against his side. "Aislinn is staying with us, or we'll be off Earth faster than you can say NID." He slipped an arm around Aislinn who willingly leaned closer.
"Do you have anything you need to pack, sir?" asked Carter. "I'm sorry, but we promised we'd return to the SGC as fast as possible."
Jack shook his head. They hadn't really got much in this place... at least nothing tangible... all there was were memories and they'd be bringing those with them... wherever they were going.
"Aislinn..." Daniel turned a little to look at their daughter. "Go pack your bag if there is anything you want to bring."
"Are we going far away?" the little girl asked.
"Very far away," agreed Daniel. "Through the Stargate I showed you a little while back."
Aislinn was on her feet in no time, giving them a brilliant smile. "Sweet," she exclaimed as she ran for the house.
Daniel turned his head a little, trying to look at Jack, who merely grinned and planted a kiss on his cheek. He wasn't going to argue Aislinn's vocabulary with the man again. At least not until they were alone again in a soundproof room. Turning back to their guests, Jack noticed the smiles on their faces as well.
Lya stood and gave them a nod. "I shall meet you at the Stargate before you leave." And before any of them could do or say anything she was gone.
The four of them stood and a moment later Aislinn joined them, slinging her back pack over her shoulder, looking as ready as a little child could, and Jack knew which part of both him and Daniel she was taking after. Her eyes were shining with the prospects of adventure.
They began their trek towards the Stargate, Aislinn ahead of them, almost skipping along, followed by Carter and Daniel who were discussing the Nox and what Daniel had learned. Jack and Teal'c silently brought up the back troop of their little party.
Once at the 'Gate, Jack stood still, turned back and looked out over the land that had been their home for the past six months... He'd miss it, miss the people... speaking of...
A moment later both Nefrayu and Lya were with them, standing in front of the large circular structure. Lya activated the Stargate and Jack was once again amazed how they did this without the usual release of energy. The 'Gate was simply suddenly active. Carter sent their signal through and they prepared to follow.
"Take this," Lya held out a small device. "With this you can contact us if needed."
"I don't know what to say," Daniel smiled sadly at the Nox. "We'll miss you."
"As will we, Daniel." Lya gave them each a hug, favoring Aislinn with the longest. The little girl would most definitely be missed. Waving goodbye the five of them went up the steps to the shimmering surface of the 'Gate.
"Another adventure?" asked Daniel as he took Aislinn's hand.
Jack took the other small hand, keeping the child between them before he leaned over and gave Daniel a long lingering kiss. "It would seem so..." Taking a deep breath the three of them followed Carter and Teal'c though the wormhole.
---
TBC
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You people are never satisfied, are you? *g*