Title: Fortune Favors the Brave - shippers version

Author: DJ Boyd

E-mail: calmpony@hotmail.com

Status: complete

Sequel: none

Rating: PG

Season: 5

Pairings: Jack/Sam

Category: Angst, UST

Spoilers: None

Content Warnings: Some graphic POW descriptions, mild m/f interaction

Summary: In the wake of 9/11 Colonel O’Neill is ordered to share an unpleasant experience.

Disclaimer: Stargate Sg-1 characters are owned by…well, someone other than me. Thanks to the powers that be, for allowing me to play with them. This original, story is property of the author.

Author’s notes: Many thanks to Badgergater for the use of references to ‘Four Months in Hell’. Visit her website “O’Neill’s House” for a fabulous journey into the mind of one Jack O’Neill.

Archive: Jackfic, Heliopolis, others please ask. Feedback is appreciated, and in my case has been known to be an effective substitute for prescription strength anti-depressants. (Just ask my family.)

File Size: 195KB

Fortune Favors the Brave

By DJ Boyd

Part One

DAY SIX

"Ye-esss!" Jack O'Neill could not have been happier as he finished the stack of reports that had dogged him for a week, and delayed his departure to a well-earned vacation. He was the last member of SG1 to be able to get away from Cheyenne Mountain. General George Hammond had granted the SGCs' number one team two weeks leave, providing their CO (one Col. Jack O'Neill) completed the backlog of reports he had been avoiding.

Colonel O'Neill's team members had been sooo looking forward to the proffered leave time that it had been impossible for Jack to even wander down to the commissary for a bite of lunch without one of them appearing from the woodwork.

DAY ONE

"Sooo, How's it going Jack?"

"Jeez! Daniel, don't DO THAT! I'm an old man you're gonna give me a heart attack..."

"Oh, did I startle you? What happened to all those hyper senses of yours'? You know...the ones you developed to a fine edge from years of special ops activities, the ones you are so proud of, the ones... you like to rub in my face on practically every mission, the ones..."

"Daniel! Enough already, yeah, ok, you caught me off guard. Frankly, I didn't think a trip to the salad bar required special ops skills. Apparently... I was wrong. Excuse me while I get my grenade launcher and oozie, oh... and my wet suit, parachute, portable helicopter, poison darts, flack jacket and Captain Marvel decoder ring." Jack continued walking down the long hallway heading toward the commissary.

Daniel Jackson, Egyptologist, linguist, archeologist and Jacks' best friend, stopped dead in the hall of sublevel twenty-five of the SGC. " Decoder ring? You're...you're trying to avoid the question aren't you? Hmm...bad sign." Daniel looked over the tops of his glasses, peering at the taller man and tried to make up the distance between himself and Jack's lengthening stride.

"Look, Daniel, I'm hungry. I haven't had lunch yet and it's already 1400 hrs, that's 2:00pm to you civilian types."

"Why is that?"

"What?"

"1400 hrs instead of 2:00pm?" Daniel stretched out his arm and grabbed Jack's shoulder bringing him to a stop and turning him ninety degrees.

With a big sigh of 'Why me?' and a shake of his head O'Neill answered " Daniel?"

"Yes, Jack."

"Do you want me to finish my reports?"

"Yes, Jack."

"THEN GET OUT OF MY WAY SO I CAN EAT SOME LUNCH!"

"Yes, Jack. Oh... by the way... salad's all gone." Daniel's hand dropped, and found it's way into his pocket as he shrugged his shoulders in a motion of apology.

"Ah, for crying out loud!"

At that moment O'Neill's second in command, Major Samantha Carter, rounded the corner carrying a tray loaded with a plate of freshly prepared garden salad, accompanied by a huge slice of cheese pizza and a large Pepsi.

"Hey sir, how's it going?"

"That depends Carter... does that tray happen to have my name on it?"

After a conspiratorial glance in Daniel's direction, Sam Carter smiled and said, "Ya, sureyabetcha."

Jack couldn't help but laugh aloud. "It's a Sunday afternoon, you're both off duty, yet you've found time to serve me lunch...I'm touched...really...truth is, you people are reeeally worried I'm not going to get those reports finished aren't you?

Sam and Daniel looked at each other and in unison answered, "Yep!"

DAY TWO

With Teal'c, the enormous Jaffa, former First Prime to Apophis, guarding Jack's door, it looked for all the world as if Colonel O'Neill was a prisoner in his own office.

To the untrained eye, one would think the Colonel was being prevented from leaving. As the door swung open, Teal'c raised his right eyebrow in the direction of the figure quickly backing out of the room. "DanielJackson, as I mentioned, O'Neill does not wish to be disturbed at this time."

"Uhh, you were right about that Teal'c, see you later." Teal'c simply nodded in the direction of Daniel's rapidly retreating form.

"TEAL'C, KEEP DANIEL OUTTA HERE WILL YA!"

"I will endeavor to do so, O'Neill." A smile tugged at the normally sedate, and serious face of the warrior.

DAY THREE

A knock on his office door brought a sigh of defeat from the hard working Colonel.

"Colonel O'Neill, sir?"

"What now? Carter, I came in extra early today to get this pain in the neck out of the way. I am trying... really, I am. I mean you people must think I have no interest in taking any leave time. If that's what you....

"No, sir that's not why I'm here. Turn on your T.V."

O'Neill had not paused typing nor looked up from his laptop. Determined not to be disturbed by anyone today in the hopes of finishing this odious, yet necessary task. "I don't exactly have time for T.V. Carter."

"Please. Sir?" The Major nodded to the corner of the room where a T.V. hung from a ceiling brace, angled slightly toward the floor.

The sound of concern and disbelief in the voice of his 2IC made it impossible for him to ignore her. He looked up and saw a distraught Sam Carter. He had a feeling whatever she was trying to draw to his attention was a little beyond Jerry Springer. He nodded and silently opened his desk drawer, withdrew the remote and turned on the set.

What he saw next hit him like a punch in the gut. "Damn." He watched as an airliner plowed through the top stories of one of the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City.

His desk phone rang, startling both officers. The tension in the small office was apparent in the Colonel's voice as he answered his phone. "O'Neill...Yes, General, I just turned it on. Yes sir, I'll be right there."

Placing the receiver on its' cradle, Jack turned to the blonde woman still transfixed by the events playing out on the television screen. "Thanks, Carter." Sam's blue eyes were wide and shining with unshed tears. "Yes, sir." They both turned and together left Jacks' office, leaving the set on.

DAY FOUR

As Second in Command to General George Hammond, in addition to being the most experienced officer stationed at the SGC as far as Middle Eastern terrorism was concerned, Colonel Jack O'Neill's' responsibilities over the next two days were to make certain security measures were in place and functioning above and beyond expectations.

All off world teams had been recalled. No one was allowed to leave, or enter. The base was in a state of lock down. Every U.S. military installation through out the world was under the same restrictions. There was a feeling of frustration and anger so thick you could have cut it with a knife and served it up for dinner for months to come. 'This does not happen to the continental United States.' It was a unified thought from coast to coast.

DAY FIVE

"O'Neill, It is good your President has taken such strong leadership during this tragedy."

"You can say that again, Teal'c."

"Very well, it is good your Pres..."

"Teal'c, Jack didn't mean for you to actually say it again." Daniel smiled slightly as Teal'c once again took Jack's every word literally. "It is a figure of speech...in other words your original statement was extremely accurate. Jack was just agreeing with you."

"Aah, yes, a Tauri turn of phrase, I remember now. Thank you DanielJackson. Why do you not just say 'I agree'?"

" That's a real good question, Teal'c. I'll look into that." Out of the corner of his eye, Daniel caught Jack smiling and shaking his head. "What?"

"What...what?" Jack's brows rose with the look of innocence he desperately tried to display.

"You know 'what'."

Jack shoved his hands deeper in his pockets and rocked back on his heels. "I was just thinking... two days ago our biggest worry, was being invaded by a bunch of snake heads. Now, we have a threat right here. Not one we can't overcome, but it's a threat none the less. From where I see it though... it can't be that bad if you still have time to educate Teal'c on colloquialisms of modern English."

"Ooo...Jack...BIG word. Of course if you would just speak proper...English...there would be no need to explain anything to Teal'c."

"DanielJackson what is a colloquialism?"

"A colloqui...."

"Aah, aah...not here... not now." Jack's raised hand brought the room to silence. "I am trying to finish these reports, or have you two forgotten. No reports, no leave."

"Jack?"

"Yes, Daniel."

"After what's happened don't you think any leave time would have been...cancelled?"

"If we were any other base, yes. However, technically, we do not exist. The 'powers that be' will let Hammond know if any of us are needed. Then he will let us know. Organization Danny-boy, organization." There was no point in telling Daniel what he really thought was on the agenda for all the military services from this point on. Let it unfold a day at a time. Keep it simple. No reason to overly worry their already semi paranoid archeologist.

"Oh, right. Not that I... would be needed anyway, it's just...I don't know, I feel like I should be doing something. I mean we have fought and killed numerous Goa'uld...saving Earth in the process by the way.  Not to mention successfully communicating with Lotan and the Gadmere ship as it attempted to terra form an...entire planet. Maybe I could help with negotiations or...."

"DanielJackson your President has made it quite clear there will be NO negotiations with those responsible for such a hyenas crime."

"Teal'c is right Daniel. There is only one end to this, and it has nothing to do with talking. Oh, and before you get started on one of your soap box tirades about cultural differences, just... DON'T."

Daniel looked at his friend with narrowed eyes. "Jack, do you take me for a traitor or something?"

"No, Daniel. I just know how...passionate...you can get over cultural differences."

"There are no cultural differences... when it comes to murder, Jack."

"Glad to hear we agree on something Danny. Now get outta here and let me get back to work!"

DAY SIX

Jack O'Neill was singing under his breath as he made his way down the hall to General Hammonds' office. "Done, done, da, done, Done, da, done, done, done, done, DONE!"

 He couldn't help the feeling of relief and accomplishment that washed over him as he had signed the last page of the last report. Even after the sad, and surprising events of earlier in the week, Jack was able to get out from under the stack of reports, that stood between his team and their promised two weeks leave...even if it was postponed indefinitely. He stopped in front of the Generals' office, paused just long enough to smooth his BDUs, rapped sharply on the door, and awaited permission to enter.

"Come." The generals' muffled voice granted his request.

Jack entered at attention and snapped a salute toward the desk. "General, Colonel Jonathan O'Neill reporting reports are completed, sir..."

O'Neill's' voice trailed away as he felt the presence of a third person in the room, he whirled on his heel to come face to face with a four star General, US Army. Jacks' shoulders immediately formed the perfect frame of attention and once again, the tips of his fingers were level with his right brow in a textbook salute.

"My apologies, sir. I was unaware General Hammond had a visitor, sir." Jack waited for his salute to be acknowledged before thinking of lowering his arm.

"At ease, Colonel." The four star returned the salute with just a little less of the snap in the wrist than Jack had managed. " I'm glad you stopped by, I was just about to have General Hammond here page you."

"General Will Owens of the Joint Chiefs, this is Colonel Jack O'Neill. The General is here to assure us of the safety of Major Davis, and other Pentagon staff members associated with the Stargate program." Though the four star was easily fifteen years Jacks' senior, he was in excellent shape. Standing eye to eye with O'Neill's' own six foot two inch frame; the General was built like a Mac truck. 'I'd bet a month's pay this guy played linebacker for ARMY while at WestPoint.' Jack thought as he took the offered hand in a firm shake.

"Yes, sir. It is a pleasure meeting you, sir. Your mission reports were required reading during my days in Special Ops training. You had a knack for getting the job done and coming away in one piece, I learned a lot from you sir. Thank you for the good news regarding Major Davis, he's a good man."

"Yes, he is Colonel. Do you mind if I call you Jack?"

"No, sir not at all."

"Have a seat Jack. Compared to what you and your team face every time you step through that 'gate', my missions were...'A walk in the park'. I can't imagine some of the things you have had to face and still bring your team back home in one piece."

" With all do respect, sir... there is no other option." Jack's jaw tightened slightly at the thought of any member of his team being left behind.

"Of course."

General Hammond sat silently behind his desk watching the conversation between these two career soldiers. Jack had been surprised to see Will Owens, and not all together thrilled with talking about his own accomplishments in the field. Hammond could see Jack trying to figure out why exactly a four star was sent to deliver a message that could easily have been handled by phone. He knew there had to be more to this visit. Hammond waited for the other shoe to drop.

"Well, let's get down to why I'm really here. Obviously a phone call could have delivered news about Major Davis and company...I'm sure that thought has crossed your mind." General Owens eyes narrowed slightly as he continued his observations of the Air Force officer he had traveled two thousand miles to meet in person.

"Yes, sir."

Hammond breathed a sigh of relief, 'At least Jack isn't playing the role of 'king of sarcasm'...yet.'

"As soon as the President gives the word we will be deploying the 101st Air Borne into Afghanistan. Bin Laden and crew will never know what hit them." With the air of a proud father, the four star raised his chin, looking down his nose in Jack's direction.

"Yes, sir." The hairs on the back of Jack's neck began to tingle, a sure sign that something unpleasant was just around the next bend.

"After that we will be counting on the Rangers to do more than their share. We want our troops to be as prepared as they possibly can be. They have the training and the equipment to do the job. What they need is to meet, in person, the man behind the reports they were required to read. Jack, I'd like you to accompany me to Fort Benning to answer any questions the 'newbies' might have."

Hammond watched his second in command carefully, searching for any indication as to how he was going to react.

Jack's brown eyes hardened as he realized which reports of his would be of use or interest to Ranger trainees. His gaze never left that of the superior officer. " I'd rather not, sir." Jack's voice was quiet but firm.

"I don't want to have to make it an order, Colonel. I know it will be difficult enough as it is."

"Ya think? Begging your pardon, sir. I remember you spending some time as a POW yourself. Why don't you go have a little chat with the 'Rangers'?"

Hammond winced and shut his eyes tight. 'I knew it couldn't last.' He took a deep breath and prepared himself to defend O'Neill against an insubordination charge.

"My imprisonment was in Viet Nam, I was tortured Viet Cong style. These people will be facing the same whack-os that you spent time with."

"Torture is torture, SIR. It doesn't really matter what language they're swearing in."

General Will Owens was not used to having junior officers address him in such a sarcastic manner, nor was he ever told what to do by anyone other than his fellow chiefs or the President of the United States. "Colonel O'Neill, due to the delicacy of this particular request, I am willing to give you some latitude. But you are walking a very fine line here."

"Yeah, I've been told that before." Jack glanced in his CO's direction and acknowledged the imperceptible shake of Hammond's head. He took a deep, subtle, breath. "General Owens, you might as well issue the order... 'cause I do not see myself volunteering for this duty anywhere this side of Netu, sir."

"I was told you are nothing, if not abrupt and to the point. I can appreciate that Colonel O'Neill. Though I am surprised by your seemingly lack of patriotism. The fact you are still military after your ordeal would have spoken differently. Very well, Colonel, consider the initial 'invitation' an order. Effective immediately." General Owens held the hard glare coming from the officer opposite him.

As far as Hammond was concerned time found a way to slow to a snails pace. He watched his 2IC take the slap on the face without any outwardly perceptible reaction, with the exception of a slight narrowing of the eyes. He could not decide which was more dangerous; the volcanic eruption he knew was just below Jack's surface or the still calm that was currently being portrayed. Jack responded a heartbeat later, rising to attention once more and snapping a salute dripping with military professionalism. "SIR, YES SIR. Permission to speak freely sir?"

Hammond's eyes rolled heaven ward. 'Owens, do your self a favor and say NO.'

"Permission denied Colonel O'Neill, my Momma didn't raise a fool. You are expected to arrive at Fort Benning, GA in 48 hours. Dismissed." General Owens stood as well, releasing Jack of his salute with one of his own.

Without another word, Jack turned smartly on his heel and left his CO's office, pulling the door closed behind him.

Major General George Hammond did not hesitate in putting his two stars at risk against the four stars standing in front of him. He hoped his long-term association with the superior officer, and his own exemplary record, would cushion the repercussions of the next few minutes.

"General Owens I hope you know what you are asking of this man. Your questioning of his patriotism was way out of line! Do you have any idea how many times Jack O'Neill has put his own life at risk, in order to save this planet from destruction, or enslavement? There is not another officer on this base, or any other for that matter, that could possibly feel more strongly about their duty to God, Country, World and Galaxy, than Jack does." Hammond's round face began to redden with the under lying anger beginning to come forth in his voice.

General Owens had worked with George Hammond on several projects in the past. He had a great deal of respect for the rotund Texan. " George, we are going to converse off the record. You do not approve of my reason for being here. I cannot say I am thrilled with it either, but everything you just said concerning O'Neill justifies my need for his cooperation. Those brave soldiers who have chosen to serve in Special Forces deserve to know the risks facing them, AND even after the worse case scenario, there can be a normal rewarding life ahead of them. They have already read the official debrief of, then Major O'Neill's, capture and confinement. Some of them puked when they read details, with accompanying medical photos, of the torture he endured. They deserve to see the man in person and speak with him."

"And what about Jack? Does he not deserve some consideration after having endured it?" Hammonds normally rosy complexion deepened a shade or two.

"Come on George, are you afraid he's going to crack or something? He's stronger than you think, if he can keep saving the world as you yourself pointed out."

"Will, if this is not supposed to be a...big deal, then why don't you be the POW poster child?" Hammond bit his tongue and stubbornly squared his shoulders. He was not at all sure his career would survive the next deluge of vocabulary about to leave his lips. He was saved by General Owens' raised hand for silence.

"Bottom line, I will be there, but to these kids I am an old desk jockey, who has been out of front line action too long. Colonel O'Neill on the other hand is in the enemy's back pocket on a daily basis." Owens dropped his hand to his side and stepped forward to retrieve his hat from the rack by the door.

Hammond's eyes widened, then narrowed as he spoke in a voice of quiet thunder." You don't mean to tell me you are going to mention the Stargate?"

"No, no of course not. It will be made clear though, that Colonel O'Neill is currently assigned to a high level National Security project. This will only add to their understanding that torture is survivable and their nation can trust them to do an excellent job in other classified programs. Have his orders to him by tomorrow morning George."

Part Two

 Striding toward his quarters. Leaving a wake of cowering Airmen in his path, Jack O'Neill did not hear the voice call to him.

"Colonel O'Neill? I said could I have a word with you." Dr. Janet Fraiser was trying to keep up with the long legged determined, royally hacked off colonel. It finally registered, some one was following him, and as he came to an abrupt stop, Fraiser bumped into the now stationary object of her pursuit.

"Ooops, Sorry Colonel."

"No problem Doc, what do you want?" The words were a little harsher than he meant.

"General Hammond asked me to give you a once over before you left for Fort Benninng. I was wondering if we could take care of it now. Cass is having a few friends over and I promised not to be late if at all possible...." The look Jack gave her was one Janet had not seen before and hoped she would never see again. "Is everything alright, sir?"

"He knew...he KNEW, and he didn't warn me. HA, that's rich!" With that, Jack resumed his journey to his quarters. A very confused Dr. Fraiser in tow.

"Uhh, Colonel, who knew what?"

"Hammond. He knew why Owens was here. Knew what that pompous belly crawler was going to ask me, NO order me to do...you think you know someone, work with them everyday, lay your life on the line for them...follow them...trust them. HA!" O'Neill had begun to pace in circles, his hands talking almost as fast as his feet were moving.

"Colonel, it is obvious you are very upset. What has happened? Why are you so agitated with the General?" Fraiser knew Jack O'Neill could exaggerate with the best of them when he wanted to; she just had to figure out what was really going on.

"WHAT! Why shouldn't I be agitated? Don't pretend innocence Janet... no offence but it's a bit of a stretch for you. If, Hammond asked you to 'check me out', you must have been in on this too." Hands suddenly crammed into his pockets, Jack spun around to face Janet Fraiser and with a cold stare expected her to deny her own involvement in this conspiracy against his privacy.

"I have known you for more than four years Jack O'Neill and I have never lied to you, I certainly do not intend to start now...I have no clue what is going on between you and Hammond, and have not met anyone today by the name of Owens." The petite doctor stood with her arms folded across her white lab coat, daring the tall superior officer to doubt her word.

"Oh...sorry." The wind had gone out of Jack's sails, but only slightly. He raked one hand through his graying hair and down to the back of his aching neck, he wondered absently when this killer headache had taken up residence. 

Dr. Fraiser never liked it when the people she was medically responsible for were not one hundred percent in body, mind, or soul. She especially did not like seeing Colonel Jack O'Neill off balance like he was now. "Colonel, what is going on that has you so worked up?" Her calm, to the point professional, voice finally got through to Jack. He took a deep cleansing breath. With a wave of his arm, he indicated, 'follow me', and began walking toward the infirmary. Janet got the hint and knew once they were in the privacy of her office the truth would be told.

They walked in silence, only acknowledging other SGC personnel with a nod of their heads, releasing lower ranking Airmen from their courtesy salutes. Arriving at Janet's office, Jack opened the door for her and then followed inside, pulling the door shut in one fluid motion. Janet had been taking mental notes during their relatively short walk. 'Good sign, body signals not quite as abrupt, breathing steadier, carotid artery pulse calmer.' She did not hesitate bringing up the topic, curious to see how severely he would react. "Now, Colonel, how about telling me what is going on?"

"General Owens, from the Joint Chiefs', is here to ask me to be his 'show and tell' project for "Ranger Day" at Fort Benning." Jack flopped down in a chair by the desk and rubbed the bridge of his nose with his finger and thumb, hoping to erase the now growing headache out of existence.

"Sir, could you run that by me again... Ranger Day? I missed today's cryptic message class." Doc Fraiser could hold her own with O'Neill when it came to sarcasm. He gave her a tired look of 'ha, ha, NOT funny' then proceeded to explain what his current orders were. He was the one to be surprised next by the look in the Doc's eyes and the tone of her voice.

"Why that... that... he has no right getting into your medical files Colonel, it's a breach of Doctor/Patient confidentiality." Janet was furious. She was a professional through and through. The thought that other 'professionals' were blatantly abusing oaths that were designed to protect patients rights, did not sit well with her at all. The guarded look on Jack's face did not betray his thoughts. He had taken advantage of Janet's private office to regroup and put into perspective the events of the past hour.

He shook his head as Janet mentioned his rights as a patient. "Doc, we both know normally I would have a leg to stand on, unfortunately this is the military and my experience in Iraq has been classified under 'National Security'. There are no rules, except those that help the DOD defend the nation and the military from harm or incursion." Jack paused to rub both eyes before continuing. "Apparently part of Ranger training includes Torture 101, text to include debrief reports of POW's...whether they like it or not."

"Sir, on a scale of one to ten; how bad is that headache you are nursing?" The doctor in Janet couldn't ignore his obvious pain any longer.

"What headache?"

"Sir."

"About a seven... I guess."

'So, that makes it more like a thirteen on a normal scale.' Doc Fraiser knew this particular patient well. His pain tolerance was extremely high, probably due to, or the reason for his successful return from the four months of torture while being held captive in Iraq. "Here take these...NO argument Colonel."

"You know, I really hate it when you order me around." Jack pulled a face to emphasize his comment.

"Yes I know. Would you rather have the headache? I can arrange for a bigger one to move in if you like." Dr. Fraiser was use to sparring with the Colonel when it came to medications. She almost, always won.

"Ok, ok. I suppose things might look a little less bleak if my head wasn't full of a Moroccan band. So... let's get this exam over with. You don't want to keep Cassie waiting. Where do you want me." Jack looked over his shoulder, through Janet's office window toward the infirmary beds, guessing which empty slot he should wander over to.

"There's no need for an exam Colonel, I did a full work up last week after your return from your last mission. You haven't been off world since. In fact, you have hardly been off the base. As long as you haven't encountered any contagion, cold, flu... chicken pox, you should be just fine, except, for that headache...and that will get better."

"Yea, as soon as a certain four star gets off my back." Jack was able to give a lopsided grin and a wink to a relieved doctor. "Thanks Doc."

"Anytime Colonel, anytime." Janet smiled and jotted down a few notes on the pad she had quietly begun to write on.

"Oh, Doc?" O'Neill paused at the door.

"Yes?"

"Make sure a copy of those notes you've been taking get into my file, would you? I have a collection you know." With that he opened the office door and sauntered down the hall leaving Dr. Fraiser shaking her head and smiling, grateful to see Jack was back, for now.

She finished her notes then went to see General Hammond. There were some recommendations she had in response to the hour she had spent with the General's second in command...if he wanted him back in one piece that is.

Part Three

The next morning, after a restless night, Jack arrived in Hammond's office to pickup his traveling orders. He knew he would be catching a military transport to Fort Benning. It was not only cost effective for military personnel to travel between duty stations using military planes, but the civilian airports nationwide were still closed. At least reporting to Benning wouldn't be a hassle travel wise. Being home to the Ranger Training Brigade and Airborne School meant there was an airfield located on post. Kind' a convenient, with any luck he would be back home with in a couple of days.

Hammond's secretary motioned to Jack to take a seat. "General Hammond will be right with you Colonel, he is just finishing a phone call." The middle aged civilian woman, who had been Hammond's personal secretary for more years than either one of them could remember, gave Jack O'Neill a warm smile. "Thanks Claire." He responded absently then sat down in the chair just outside the general's door.

"Can I get you a cup of coffee, Colonel O'Neill?" Claire Jones looked cautiously in his direction. Her boss had warned her the Colonel would be in first thing this morning and might not be in the best of moods. That usually meant anyone found in his path qualified for hazard pay. Something was different this morning. He seemed far too distracted to notice anyone else. "Colonel?"

"Umm?"

"Coffee?"

"Uhh...no, no thanks." He had picked up a pencil from Claire's desk and was balancing the point on the tip of his finger. Remaining focused on this long ago acquired skill; Jack did not seem to hear the door open beside him.

General Hammond quietly watched his 2IC, a tight smile appearing on his face. "Not bad Colonel, planning on joining the circus?"

"I thought I already had, sir." Jack tossed the pencil straight up and Hammond caught it smoothly. "No offense intended, General." O'Neill stood at attention.

"None taken, come on in Jack." Hammond followed the tall Colonel into his office. He turned a raised eyebrow in his secretary's direction, "Hold my calls Claire."

"Yes, General." With a nod of 'Thanks' Hammond closed the door. He covered the distance between the door and his desk in three long strides while motioning to his uncharacteristically quiet, second to be seated. " Jack, you don't appear to have slept much last night."

"Not much, sir."

Hammond felt his blood begin to boil, again. He was still furious with General Owens for questioning Jack's loyalty; he couldn't imagine how O'Neill must be feeling. "Jack I can't say I blame you for being angry with me." The Colonel's head snapped up as if just realizing his CO had become a mind reader. Hammond raised his hand to stop the unspoken comment. "Dr. Fraiser came to see me yesterday, believe me I had an ear full from her. For such a little lady she can sure deliver." He paused trying to read his Colonel before continuing. "I had about four hours lead time, before Owens arrived. I admit I knew the purpose of his visit...and hoping to forestall an insubordination charge against you, chose not to brief you ahead of time. Had you known why he was here...I doubt you would have been quite so civil." 

Jack shook his head in denial. "Oh I would have been civil sir...I just wouldn't have been on the planet." His voice was level and Hammond had no doubt O'Neill was speaking the truth.

The General looked hard at the man sitting across from him. He would trust his life to Colonel Jack O'Neill at anytime, anywhere. "Jack, I apologize for General Owens remarks yesterday, they were uncalled for and far off the mark. For the record, in my opinion Will Owens has forgotten the worth of a good soldier. After you left this office, I took the opportunity to remind him. I regret to inform you I was unable to persuade him to rethink your involvement in this operation. I made a couple of phone calls though and have seen to it that your travel orders include some 'perks' for your time and service to your country. I know it doesn't change anything you have already been through, but I hope it will take some of the tension out of this trip."

"You didn't have to do that General...but I appreciate it." Jack took the manila envelope from his CO and turned it over in his hands twice before opening it. Orders were straight forward and to the point. Report...Fort Benning, GA...16Sept01...1700hrs...CHQ. As was expected, Jack was to depart Peterson AFB in Colorado Springs. He would be given details as to which aircraft he would be assigned once he arrived. "Reserve seating instead of stand by? Nice."

General Hammond smiled. "Perk number one, Robins AFB has requested a squad of F16s. Peterson happens to have a couple of aircraft that will be part of the squad. If you are interested, you can ferry one out to Benning. Robins will send a pilot to pick it up." Not surprising to Hammond, Jack quietly nodded his head in agreement.

"Thank you, sir. I believe I will take you up on that. Too much wormhole travel...don't have the patience for stand by anymore." Jack continued to look through his orders. There was another, smaller, envelope. He opened it and withdrew its' contents. Looking across the desk, he caught Hammonds eye. "What's this?" He asked as he held up the plastic rectangle.

"Perk number two, open end expense account. No questions asked. Take advantage of it son, you deserve it." The General could see the hesitation in Jack's eyes. He added "That's an order."

"Sweet...Uhh yes sir, thank you sir. Is there anything else General?" Jack's voice had a certain pessimistic tone to it.

"One more thing Colonel. Based on Doctor Fraiser's recommendation I am sending another member of the SGC along for the ride." As expected, this was not well received.

O'Neill's eyes grew cold. "That won't be necessary sir. I don't plan on going AWOL."

"Thought never crossed my mind, Colonel." Hammond matched his second's gaze without hesitation. "Doctor Fraiser is concerned you may need a friendly face nearby, I happen to agree with her, so let's skip the efforts to change my mind shall we?" To his credit, Jack took the hint and simply nodded in acceptance, or was it defeat? "As you know, Teal'c gated to the Land of Light this morning to be with his family, and Dr. Jackson was called to the Pentagon two nights ago to help with translations." Hammond's intercom buzzed, he reached for the receiver. "Excuse me Colonel...Hammond."

'So, thought Jack, that's where the space monkey disappeared to.'

"Thank you Claire, send the Major in." As Hammond replaced the receiver back in its cradle, there was a firm knock on the door. "Come." The door opened and Major Carter walked in.

"Reporting as ordered, sir." Sam Carter saluted the SGC commander, and receiving acknowledgement turned to her immediate CO. "Good morning, Colonel. Nice weather for flying."

Jack stood with hands in his pockets, a smile finding a home on his face. 'Perk number three?' The thought, fortunately, remained...a thought. "Major, weren't you going to visit your brother?"

"Plans have been changed sir...Mark understands. He really wasn't expecting to see me after what happened." Sam tried to look at ease, matter of fact, calm. What she felt was a bit nervous. Hammond and Dr. Fraiser had briefed her the night before on Colonel O'Neill's orders from General Owens, and what her purpose in accompanying him was. She was to be Janet's eyes and ears, as well as a check valve for O'Neill, to let off steam if need be.

"Major here are your traveling orders. When the two of you are ready to head for Peterson let Claire know. She will arrange for a driver." He was watching Jack for any sign that he was going to object to Major Carter 'tagging' along...so far...so good.

"Now...that really won't be necessary, General. We can find our way to the other side of Colorado Springs. Can't we, Major?" His eyes had not left her from the moment she had entered the room.

She looked up from the papers she had been studying to meet his gaze. She couldn't quite read what was there. "Yes, sir I'm pretty sure we can handle that."

General Hammond debated issuing another order, but decided his 2IC was merely trying to grasp some control over this run away train he had been thrown aboard. "Very well, Colonel. Call me if you are in need of anything. Dismissed." 

"Thank you, sir."

Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter made their way through the halls of the SGC toward their respective quarters. "So, Carter."

"Yes sir?" They continued walking as they spoke.

"Did Hammond cancel your leave just so you could keep an eye on me...or make sure I didn't go AWOL?" O'Neill stopped in front of his Major's door.

"Actually...sir...the General didn't cancel my leave, nor did he order me to accompany you." Carter looked slightly embarrassed at her confession. "I over heard Janet talking to the General and volunteered to keep you company."

"Liar."

"Excuse me sir?" She simply stared at her CO.

 "Fraiser isn't careless enough to allow her conversations with Hammond to be overheard, I know...I've tried. Besides, you couldn't wait to get away to San Diego and visit your niece and nephew." Jack rocked back and forth on his heels, hands deep in his pockets, waiting for his 2IC to come up with a better story.

"Colonel...I did volunteer sir, as soon as General Hammond told me where you were going and why."

"So...they are sending you to keep an eye on me." His dark brown eyes grew a shade darker. He had not been thrilled about this whole situation from the beginning but in his mind, it just got worse. No way did he want to expose Carter to the fallout that could potentially occur from a few days of deliberately reliving his own private hell on earth.

Sam looked at her superior officer and friend, seeing the concern in his eyes, or was it anger? Was he angry with her for agreeing with Dr. Fraiser and Hammond, or was he afraid she would witness a chink in his armor. She lifted her chin slightly and drew herself to attention. "Yes sir...with...or without...your permission... sir."

Realizing he had no hope this side of PX5...whatever of convincing her to go visit her brother instead, he took a deep breath and softly uttered; "Thank you Major. Can you be ready in thirty minutes? I'd like to get this over with as soon as possible."

Carter visibly relaxed. She smiled as she answered him. "Already packed, sir."

Part Four

Upon arrival at Peterson AFB Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter were each assigned an F16 to ferry out to Fort Benning. Other than their annual qualifying hours, it had been a while since either one of them had flown the jets, but they were both expert F16 pilots. They were on full combat alert as they crossed the country. Patrolling the skies for any further trouble.

Jack found the opportunity to be alone with his thoughts gratifying. There was something about soaring through the clouds, it was inspiring and humbling at the same time. Of course, it wasn't any where near as awe inspiring as 'gate travel', though it used to be. 'Funny how perspective can change.' Jack thought. "Fox three, one-niner, this is 'Blue Eagle one-niner'. Do you read? Over." As Jack radioed Carter, he looked over his right shoulder to find her in position just off his wing.

His radio crackled back, "Roger that Blue Eagle, loud and clear. Fox three, one-niner, over."

"Fox three, one-niner, how about we try a few drills before we have to give the keys back. Blue Eagle over." Jack didn't know when he would get another chance to fly, not to mention being able to check out Sam Carter's skills. He knew she had logged quite a few hours during the Gulf War, and was extremely competent.

"Roger Blue Eagle, sounds great. Fox Three over."

"Roger Fox Three, stay on my wing. Blue Eagle out." With the final transmission meaning, 'radio quiet until end of drill', Jack sent the non-verbal message 'TRUST ME', to his Second in Command. Jack rolled his craft to the left and dove toward the deck. Carter was a fraction of a second behind, shadowing his every move.

Sam Carter had not had such an intoxicating, and taxing drill since her last mission over Iraq. Not counting of course the numerous times she and her teammates had out run Jaffa, grappled with Goa'uld system Lords, or negotiated with numerous alien cultures since being assigned to SG-1.

There was something about dancing through the skies of her own home world, with her more than capable CO leading the way, that brought an overwhelming feeling of pride and satisfaction for having chosen a career in the military. It also brought to the surface feelings of anger for what her country was currently facing. She had lost count how many times in the last week she had asked herself the question, 'How and Why? If people only knew the threat that literally sits at our galactic window...'

"FOX THREE, Hello Carter, you're dead. Care to explain where your mind wondered off too? Blue Eagle, over." Suddenly 'Blue Eagle' was on her tail lining her up in his sights.

'Holy Hannah! How did he do that?' "Uhh...Blue Eagle, I have no explanation, sir. How did you do that? I swear I did not take my eyes off you for a second...sir. Fox Three, over." As the radio frequency flipped back to her CO, she could hear him laughing.

"...Well, well, well, don't tell me. Have I finally done something way smarter than Carter? Now that is one for the books. Actually...it is a fairly, old, yet apparently still effective, maneuver. We have about thirty minutes left in flight time to Benning. We can go over it a couple of times, if you think an old dog can teach you a new trick. Blue Eagle, over."

Her CO had flown his jet to position himself off her left wing. It was hard to see facial expressions but she could picture the familiar grin that must be lying underneath the oxygen mask. "Blue Eagle, that would be great sir. I concede the way smarter part, but sir...my dad isn't even OLD yet, so you certainly aren't. Fox Three over."

"Fox Three, flattery will get you anywhere. Heads up. Blue Eagle over." O'Neill spent the next ten minutes showing Carter the maneuver he had successfully used more times than he could remember. The Major was a quick study, not that that was a surprise, what intrigued O'Neill was her ability to take the maneuver and tweak it slightly, gaining another ten second jump on him, as he became the mouse. At these speeds ten seconds was an eternity. 'Oh yeah, she's good, very good.' "Fox Three, one-niner, nicely done Carter. You realize you are now privy to a Jack O'Neill original. Guard it well, Major. See you on the deck. Blue Eagle, out." Colonel O'Neill snapped a salute toward his second and peeled off to his right, dropping down and under Fox Three, allowing Sam the honor of taking point and becoming her wing man as a sign of trust and respect, rewarding her for a job well done. The two F16s flew in tight formation, and radio silence, during the remaining ten minutes to Fort Benning.

They lightly landed their aircraft, without incident. After relinquishing custody of the F16s to the pilots from Robins AFB, O'Neill and Carter were shown the way to the locker rooms. They changed out of their 'G' suits, and into their dress blues.

Amongst the, Army green, their Air Force blues made them stick out like Blue Jays, in a pine forest. Then again, rank was rank, no matter what the branch of Service. As Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter reported to Command Head Quarters, they were greeted with the respect that went along with their individual ranks. The young Specialist 4, (equivalent pay scale of a Senior Airman) in charge of the information desk, greeted O'Neill and Carter with a smart salute and a friendly, smile. "Good afternoon Sir, Ma'am. Welcome to Fort Benning." He waited for the salute to be returned before continuing. "Specialist Wagner at your service, how may I assist you?"

"Well...Specialist Wagner, you could point us in the direction of General Owens office. Name's Colonel Jack O'Neill, I have orders to report no later than 1700 hrs tomorrow." The young, sandy haired man looked as if he were about to state the obvious. O'Neill cut in. "I know...I like to be early." He gave the Spec 4 a grin that belied the frustration and fatigue he was feeling.

"Yes sir, actually sir, General Owens is in Washington until noon tomorrow."

"Great." 'So much for getting it over with...' He grimaced at the thought of spending days here, as opposed to hours.

"Sir, if I could please verify you are who you say you are...no disrespect intended, sir."

"No problem, Wagner. You are just doing your job. Better to err on the side of caution, considering." Jack had been pulling out his I.D. and packet of orders as he spoke to the young soldier.

"Yes sir, thank you sir." Major Carter had her I.D. confirmed also as the pleasant, young Spec 4 quickly read and stamped both sets of orders. "Sir, if you will sign here, Ma'am, also here please." 'Yeah, sign what's left of your life away, O'Neill.' Jack was beginning to lose his grip on self-control. He held the pen so tightly in his hand that his knuckles turned white.

Carter deliberately, and inconspicuously touched the top of his hand as he passed the pen to her. He looked at her as if his hand had touched fire. The smile that greeted him was one of understanding and calm. He nodded slightly and took a deep, subtle breath. 'Ok, he thought, I'm going to make it, as long as Carter can pull me back every now and then, I'll be fine.' Carter was handing the pen back to Wagner. He was saying something about officers' quarters?

"Excuse me, would you repeat that please?"

"Yes sir, there are rooms reserved for you and the Major in the officers' quarters. I'll get someone to show you the way."

"That won't be necessary son, we already have rooms in town. What we are in need of is a vehicle, or a driver." Jack waited for what he knew would come next.

The young desk jockey looked up after reading their orders again, concerned he had missed something. "Sir, I'm afraid I can't authorize anything not included in General Owens' orders."

"Of course not...stars speak louder than eagles, right?" Colonel O'Neill was career military, he knew very well how the wheels turn and in which order they had to spin.

"Yes sir, sorry sir."

"Oh, don't worry about it Specialist. Just give General Owens a call and ask him to amend the orders."

"As I said sir, the general is in Washington..."

"Got that...do you need the number? Major Carter will look it up for you, won't you, Major?" Jack innocently gazed toward his Major and smiled.

Carter barely contained her composure, "Yes, sir I'd be happy to do that, sir."

"Uhh...sir, ma'am, I do have the general's pager number. He is probably in a meeting with the joint chiefs, possibly the president, himself. I'm sure he would appreciate not being disturbed, sir." Specialist Wagner made the unwise assumption that the subject was closed. He turned away from the Air Force officers, intent on completing instructions to the Pvt. First Class who was to be their escort to their respective quarters.

The steel edge to O'Neill's voice caused him to freeze in mid-sentence and turn once again to the two officers in blue. "Perhaps, but last time I checked silver eagles scream louder than...embroidered yellow ones." Colonel O'Neill looked pointedly at the patch on the sleeve of the Spec 4's Class A's. It resembled an upside down, green Hershey Kiss, with a yellow eagle embroidered in the center. "I'll tell you what Wagner, The Major and I are starving, how about our escort takes us to the officer's club instead. We can grab a late lunch while you contact the General."

Spec 4 Wagner seemed to be weighing his options, should he incur the wrath of his Boss, knowing from experience how loud and long the lecture will be, or did he dare venture into the unknown and except whatever criticism may come from the dark eyed colonel.

Sam Carter had remained motionless except for the slight upturn in the corners of her mouth. She had seen her CO go up against some of the nastiest creatures in the universe and come out victorious. No way, a mere Spec 4 in the Army had a chance of a prayer in this duel of words.

An ever so slight narrowing of Jack's eyes helped finalize the decision. "Yes sir, Private Clement will escort you and Major Carter to the dining hall. I will do my best to rectify any misunderstanding, sir." The General's assistant was relieved to see a relaxed smile appear on the Colonel's face. He offered a salute and waited for its' acknowledgement.

"Thank you, Wagner. Knew I could count on you to do your best." Jack's smile remained as he returned the enlisted man's salute. Then turning to his 2IC, "Major, shall we?"

"Yes sir." Dutifully Major Carter had kept a straight face and responded with the utmost professionalism. Privately she was celebrating the direct hit Colonel O'Neill had landed. She had sensed the attitude of the soldiers toward the Air Force blue, a feeling of 'Afraid to look the enemy in the eye so you drop bombs from a plane, Momma Flyboys', (she was familiar with the phrase, and the attitude, having been raised the daughter of an Air Force General). All within ear shot had heard and listened, and dropped the attitude fast giving a wide berth to this particular 'Flyboy.'

They made their way to the Officers Mess where they enjoyed a hearty lunch of grilled steak with all the trimmings. As Jack was deciding, whether he had room for desert Spec 4 Wagner arrived at their table.

"Colonel O'Neill, Major Carter, sir, ma'am. My apologies for any inconvenience you may have been caused, sir. I spoke with General Owens; he asked I pass on his appreciation of your prompt arrival. Here are keys to a rental car from town, compliments of General Owens, sir. The General has asked if you and the Major will dine with him tomorrow evening? If there is anything you need sir, do not hesitate to contact myself, or the aid on duty sir. We are at your disposal." Specialist 4 Wagner came to attention again and awaited orders.

"Thank you, Specialist, I appreciate your prompt attention to the details of our visit. As soon as we are settled, in town I'll let you know how to reach us. Dismissed." Jack took the keys and decided dessert could wait. "Major Carter? If you are finished mutilating that salad of yours', we can find some dessert in town. Let's go, I need to get out of this 'monkey suit'."

Sam knew how much the Colonel hated having to wear Class A's, she didn't care for it much herself. "Sure, sir I'm right behind you. Did Wagner happen to describe the car, sir?"

"Nope."

"Won't that be a problem sir? Finding the right vehicle I mean."

"Nope."

"How so sir?"

"Watch." was all he would say. Sam looked at him, unable to understand how he could know which car was meant for their use. It was made clear as soon as they stepped outside the Club. There were three enlisted men polishing a dark blue Ford Thunderbird. As they approached the vehicle, all three men in unison came to attention and snapped smart salutes. Jack returned the gesture, and allowed the passenger door to be opened. Another of the attendants opened the driver's door for Major Carter.

"How did you know sir?" Carter queried as she accepted the keys from her CO.

"Not hard Carter, someone as smart as you ought to be able to figure out how a bunch of wet behind the ears, green at the gills army grunts, would choose a car for two vastly superior Air Force officers to drive." Jack was looking at his major as she pulled out of the parking lot and proceeded to the front gates. He could see her struggling to find the answer. "Come on Carter. Blue, for Air Force, 'T-bird' for the flyboys. This isn't rocket science here."

Carter blushed slightly at the simplicity of the connection. "I guess I might be dumb enough to help the Asgard, but not quite up to deciphering the Army mind..." Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the Colonel look at her with an expression she couldn't quite read. She stumbled to apologize. "Oh...Sir, I...I didn't mean to imply..."

"Forget it Carter." O'Neill smiled as he received the reaction he was looking for. "Not everyone can be as smart as you are." He saw her relax again and felt a wave of gratitude flow over him. 'Glad she came along, teasing her helps keep my mind off things.'

"So, sir, which hotel are we registered with?"

"Were not, at least not yet."

"But I thought you said we had rooms in town?"

"We do, we just don't know where...exactly."

"Okay, so Motel Six or The Lazy Eight, there's one of each coming up, sir."

"Neither, head downtown, Columbus isn't a big city compared to some but they do have a Hilton."

"Sir?"

"Yes, Carter."

"Nothing, sir."

"Right."

As Sam pulled into the drive, and parked the car in front of The Hilton Columbus Hotel, she thought about questioning her CO's choice in accommodations. To her knowledge, the military was not accustomed to issuing four-star hotels as barracks, even for visiting officers. She wondered if this was part of what Janet had warned her about. Both Dr. Fraiser, and General Hammond had suggested the colonel's behavior patterns could change due to the stress of this assignment. She was told not to interfere unless the situation appeared to be heading out of control. Her job was to observe and handle fallout. 'You mean damage control don't you, sir?' Hammond's answer came without hesitation. 'Yes, major that is exactly what I mean.' As the valet opened her door, Carter's thoughts were brought back to the present.

They were lucky to be able to get a couple of rooms. There were four conventions at the busy hotel. Colonel O'Neill was waiting by the elevator checking his wristwatch. "Come on Carter, there's a hockey game on in twenty minutes. It would be nice to have access to a T.V. set before the end of the game."

"Yes, sir."

Their rooms were on the same floor, but at opposite ends of the hall from one another. Sam was not sure this was such a good arrangement. Janet had mentioned there could be night terrors involved with Post-traumatic Stress Syndrome, the very reason she had insisted Jack not journey to Georgia alone. If the Colonel were to have a full-blown episode, Sam would be too far away to be aware of it and unable to be of help, if he needed her. Janet had gone over several scenarios with her and told her what signs to watch for. Carter decided her only option at this point was to make sure she was alert to his moods and manners. She was also certain the Colonel would not appreciate being on her stake out list. Challenge number one, sticking close to her CO, without looking like she was sticking close to her CO.

O'Neill, being the gentleman he truly was, made sure his second in command had her door unlocked before turning to head toward his own room. 'Hockey, hockey will keep him busy. Shouldn't be any problems tonight.' Sam's mind was going ninety trying to find an excuse to spend more of the evening in the same room with the Colonel. After four years of working together almost everyday, Sam felt confident in knowing her CO's moods and how to steer them in a positive direction. Before entering her room, she called out to him. "Hockey sounds great, sir. I've missed the last couple of games. Who's where in the play offs?"

Jack froze in mid-stride, turning back to his 2IC his eyes narrowed as he contemplated his response to her question. "Carter have you been holding out on me? I thought hockey was one of your least favorite spectator sports?"

"Well sir, I must admit I would rather be on the ice smacking the puck, not to mention my opponent 'up-side the head', sir." Sam's sweet innocent smile did little to hide the sarcasm lacing her voice.

Jack shook his head and with his most authoritative command voice stated firmly; "Major Carter, there is a reason I am the one in charge of sarcasm here. You follow?"

"Anywhere, anytime, sir." Carter deadpanned in perfect timing.

"Good, I'll hold you to that Major." Jack started to turn and head toward his room again.

"So... sir? Mind if I come by and watch the game with you? We could order pizza."

"Major, I wouldn't dream of forcing you to sit through a hockey game just so you can keep an eye on me for good ole' Doc Fraiser." He saw his major was just about to object, he held up his hand to stop her. "Aah...Sam, everything is all right...really. I'm gonna watch the game and then go to sleep." He could see she still wasn't convinced. "I promise." His right fore finger traced a big 'X' across his heart.

"Yes sir, goodnight, sir."

"Oh...Carter, as much as I hate the thought of being accessible, I guess we need to let Benning know how to reach us. Call Specialist Wagner; just give him your cell number ok? Thanks."

"Of course sir."