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Title: Ancient's Legacy
Written By:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
sfscarlet
Timeline: Season 8 Stargate- anytime after 5th Highlander
Rating: R
Warnings: none
Summary: SG-1 seeks Methos and Duncan's help to find an ancient Goa'uld weapon
Author's Notes: Thank you to Spacebass, Tehomet, and Christie for the beta. Their feedback and commas are greatly appreciated.
“What the hell happened? That was one hell of a Quickening and I don’t remember fighting anyone,” Adam said as he looked around the area.
“The gun went off and killed Sharel. You must have been the closest Immortal and got her Quickening.”
“But how?”
“I don’t know, but we’re going into the great hall and maybe we’ll find out. Can you walk?”
“I’m not an invalid, Duncan. I just took a Quickening,” Adam said quietly as he stood up. He dusted off his pants and glanced at the members of SG-1. Jack and Daniel were eyeing him and started to walk toward him. Teal’c and Sam were talking to Julos.
“I’m fine,” Adam said to Jack and Daniel as they stood in front of him. “That was one hell of a Quickening. Sure wasn’t expecting that. I prefer to fight my enemies and receive their Quickening in a fair fight.” Adam walked next to Duncan and they entered the meeting room.
Carter, Daniel and Teal’c sat on one side of the table while Adam, Duncan and Jack were on the other side. Julos sat on one end and waited quietly for Salom to join them.
“That looked really painful, Adam,” Carter said.
“Indeed. Is it always that way?” Teal’c asked.
“It was very painful. That was a Quickening and the older a person is or the more Quickenings they have taken, the stronger the jolts.” Adam looked around the room and located the table with refreshments on it. He stood up and went to it, pouring himself some water. “Quickenings often leave you very drained and this one is no different.” He returned to the table as Salom entered the room.
Salom seated himself at the other end of the table and dipped his head in greeting. “You have the energy?” Salom asked Adam.
“Energy?”
“The pulse. We saw you take the energy when Sharel died?”
“We call it the Quickening. Yes, I have the energy.”
“How is that possible? You are not from Moriah and we have met no other visitors that have the energy. Our ancestors wrote of others like us, those who have the quickening energy, but we have never encountered them in our travels. No one has ever come to our planet that has the pulse.”
“What did the stories say,” Daniel asked. He placed his index finger up to his temple. “This is fascinating,” His eyes lit up like he had discovered the Rosetta stone and he had just deciphered the writings.
“Your ancestors?” Adam asked. “So you die and have children?”
“Of course,” Salom replied, thinking the question odd. “Everyone dies and most have children.”
Adam winced at the words and responded softly, “Not everyone.”
“I’m sorry for your loss,” Salom said in a saddened tone. “I don’t mean to bring sorrow.”
Realizing the confusion, Adam clarified, “Where I come from, people who have quickening energy can’t have children.” He looked at Julos and his eyes appeared to brighten. “Yes, Julos that was some of the information I was studying yesterday in your library.”
“I don’t understand. Please explain,” Julos said.
“On Earth all the people with Quickenings are foundlings. This doesn’t seem to be the case here. I’ve seen many children and I feel the aura from all of them.”
Both Moriahans nodded yes to the statement. “Everyone has the pulse. We are born with it and die with it.”
“Tell me what happens when a person dies. Does the pulse flow from the body like it did with Sharel?” Duncan asked.
“When someone is dying the family gathers round the person and when they pass, their pulse flows to the oldest member of the family,” Julos explained.
“What happens when the family isn’t around? Like today with Sharel,” Adam asked sitting up in his chair.
“Then the oldest person in the vicinity receives the pulse. When Sharel died, you must have been the oldest person in the area. I must say you do not look older then I am,” Salom said as he scrutinized Adam from his seat at the head of the table.
Salom felt the quickening energy coming from Adam, but when he focused on Daniel, he felt nothing. “You don’t have quickening energy.”
“Uh no,” Daniel answered as he crossed his hands over his chest.
Salom looked at Jack, “All of you do not possess the energy?”
“Nope. Only Adam and Duncan. The rest of us, no energy,” Jack said as he put up both hands, palms forward in a stopping motion.
“I’ve never found a traveler to have the pulse and we’re so used to feeling it amongst ourselves that Adam’s pulse didn’t register. Now that I have had time to think about this, I must share the news with Carel and the others.”
Daniel was still holding his notes from the negotiations. He placed them on the table. “Does the pulse have any special uses?” Daniel asked, hoping his guess was correct.
“It is used in our defenses. It powers the machines.”
“I see. How does it work?” Daniel asked, knowing that Jack would want one of those Goa’uld zappers.
“We usually do not sell them as our trade partners cannot use them. However, since Adam and Duncan have the energy they may be able to operate them. I will have to speak with the council.”
“Sweet,” said Jack too soft for Salom to hear.
“Sir,” Carter said as she gave her commanding officer a solemn look.
“I assume that Adam would be able to use the technology, but we can test it. If he can, I do not think our government will object. I will arrange for the test,” Salom said as he nodded his head. “Is that all? It has been a long and interesting morning and I would like to talk with Carel and the others.”
“We will meet tomorrow. I must see to Sharel’s body and talk to the council.”
“Until then,” Daniel nodded and the men stood, shaking hands, and then everyone left the room.
“Hammond will be ecstatic. Can’t wait to tell him we scored some anti Goa’uld machines,” Jack said as he placed his hands in his pockets and rocked on his heels.
“Daniel, about that,” Adam began. “Even if my Quickening can operate the machine, Duncan and I aren’t willing to babysit it and fight every Goa’uld attack that comes your way.”
“I know. I’m sure if it works, Sam and her scientists can backward engineer the thing so we won’t need you. We’ve been able to engineer many devices,” Jack said as he walked toward their quarters. “Let’s see if we can have the machines. We’ll worry about the attacks later.”
Everyone sat in the living area of the quarters. Adam poured himself some Gavel, an alcoholic beverage that he’d been given at dinner the night before. Popping the top on the bottle, he took a drink and then sat in the large overstuffed chair by the couch. “I wonder if I’ll be able to operate the machine?” He said to Jack.
“Of course, you will.” Jack smiled a huge grin. He was off duty but he did not allow himself to drink alcoholic beverages when on a mission. Instead he was nursing a glass of Salange juice. “I can’t wait to tell Hammond about our success. Finally someone who will share their toys.”
“We don’t know if Adam and Duncan can work the weapon. Let’s not get too excited,” Daniel said as he sat down at the small table in the room. He fidgeted with his papers and looked around at the light gray walls. This room, like the conference room was sedate, few colors to distract or add to the ambiance and it was filled with the basic necessities; a bed, a dresser, a mirror, an entertainment area and a large chair with a small square table. It reminded Daniel of a Holiday Inn back on Earth. He didn’t expect extravagant housing when off world, half the time; they were housed in a local leader’s home. It seemed that Moriah was not an extravagant planet and their inhabitants lead a fulfilling life without so many of the excesses the team saw on Earth and other planets. There were recreation facilities and entertainment areas but it appeared that they were open to everyone. It appeared there was little, if any, violence as evidenced by the lack of guns or weapons, except for the hidden Goa’uld destruction devices. It was interesting that the Goa’uld still came to the planet.
“Daniel, Daniel,” Jack said loudly as he shook Daniel’s shoulder. “What you thinking? I can almost see the wheels turning in there.”
“Oh, sorry. I was just thinking how strange this whole situation is. I mean the Goa’uld Hatek came here, was destroyed, but they didn’t send another one. If the Goa’uld continually send ships in to this area and the ships never come back, wouldn’t they get suspicious?” Daniel explained as he got up to grab a cup of Frem. Pouring the Frem, he walked around.
“Any thoughts people?”
“Daniel’s right, Sir. This doesn’t seem like the Goa’uld. If they sent a ship and it didn’t return, they would send another or come looking for it. I can’t see them forgetting about it,” Sam said as she frowned at her statement. Maybe it really wasn’t a Hatek.”
“I agree, DanielJackson. The Moriahans do not appear to be hiding information, but the situation does not fit the knowledge we have of the Goa’uld. I saw the ship and it did appear to be a Hatek. However the Moriahians have never said it was the Goa’uld. Maybe there is another enemy that we are not aware.”
“The device could destroy anything it feels is a threat,” Adam said, joining Daniel in his pacing the floor. “However, if that were the case, how would the device recognize an enemy over a trading partner? They did say they trade with other planets.”
“Maybe the device recognizes weapons or powered up weapons,” Duncan said as he retied his ponytail.
“I guess we will have to wait until the test tomorrow for our answers. Dinner will be brought here as I requested some private time with my team. It should arrive in about half an hour. Daniel, why don’t you make notes regarding your negotiations today so I can send them through the gate at check in? Check in is at 20:00. That should give you about four hours. The rest of you are free for the evening.”
“Uh, Jack,” Daniel said crossing his arms across his chest. “We never got to the negotiations. The runner came in just as we were starting.”
Jack raised his eyebrow and shrugged. “Okay. Guess we’ll tell Hammond we’re not ready yet. After tomorrow’s meeting, we’ll hopefully be able to report the biggest find since Zat guns.”
“Sir, I’m going to the market. I’d like to look at their goods,” Carter said.
“I will join Major Carter. Perhaps I will find something that is of interest,” Teal’c said.
“I’d like to go back to the Center,” Daniel said. “Do you want to come, Adam?”
“Do you think someone will let us in? Remember we have to have a card.”
“I’m sure we can find someone to let us in.”
“Sure. I’d love to do more research. Duncan, what do you want to do?”
“I think I will do a Kata and then maybe go for a run,” Duncan said as he turned toward their room.
“Only you would find exercise relaxing,” Adam laughed as he gave Duncan a smile.
“What about you, Jack?” Daniel asked.
“I think I’ll stroll around town. See if there is anything we didn’t see in our earlier tours.”
“See you later,” Daniel said as he and Adam walked out of the quarters.
Teal’c and Carter followed right behind them and Duncan left a few minutes later. Jack left shortly after the rest of the team. Several hours later, everyone returned form their journeys.
Their meal had just arrived and they sat around the small table in the kitchen area.
“Everyone have a good afternoon?” Jack asked.
“Yes, Adam and I were able to gain access to the Center and learned a little more about the planet and the original settlers,” Daniel said as he placed some meat on his plate.
“What about you, Carter, find any cool goods at the market?” Jack asked as he waved his fork in the air.
“Yes. They have beautiful jewelry. They make it themselves from the ores that they mine. I wish we could buy products from the inhabitants to bring back to earth.”
“Jack, did you find anything new?” Daniel asked.
“No. This is really as close to a Utopia as I’ve seen. I borrowed a car and went to the Gate to make my report to Hammond. I explained the situation and he’s willing to give us another day here to investigate the machines.”
The team completed their meal and talked for a while after the meal. “We’ve got an early morning. Salom said that he would meet us for morning meal at sunrise. I’m going to bed,” Jack reminded his team.
Everyone agreed sleep sounded good and turned in early.
The alarm buzzed on Jack’s watch. Sitting up in bed, he was instantly alert.
“Time to get up, Daniel,” he said as he shook Daniel’s shoulders gently.
Knocking on the adjoining door, he yelled, “Time to get up Carter, Teal’c.”
He walked into the living area and repeated his call to Adam and Duncan. “It’s show time, campers. We need to see if Adam can shoot down ships with his mind.” Listening to his statement, he laughed. “I did not just say that Adam was going to shoot down ships with his mind. I’ve been watching too many science fiction shows”
“Actually, Sir, if I understand the Moriahans correctly, your statement is somewhat correct. It is his Quickening that activates the machines that shoot the ships,” Sam said as she gathered her instruments.
“Indeed. That is my understanding as well,” Teal’c said as he finished lacing his boots.
Jack looked at his team,” Everybody ready?”
“Yes,” Daniel said as he gathered his notebook.
“Yes,” Duncan said as he looked at Adam.
“Yes,” Adam said.
“What about you big guy,” Jack said as he looked at Teal’c.
“I am ready as well.”
Jack rubbed his hands together; they went to meet Julos for breakfast.
“Good day,” Julos said. “I hope you slept well.”
“Just peachy,” Jack said.
“Peachy. I’m not familiar with that term,” Julos said.
“It is a local term. We slept well,” Sam said.
“Good,” Julos said. “Breakfast is ready. We have Livist, Frem and today we have Marcams as well.” Julos led them into the dining area where they had eaten almost all their meals. Today, as yesterday, there were few people in the room.
Carter chose to sit at the long table versus the smaller round table. The rest of the team joined her. Julos and Salom ate with them. Carter put Livist and Marcams on her plate. She poured some Mora as well. “The Marcams are good, Sir. They taste like eggs.”
Adam and Duncan sat across from each other. Adam poured some Mora into his cup and placed some Zil milk in as well. Taking a sip, he sighed with contentment. “Daniel did you put Mora on your list of items we want to trade. I’d like to take some back for later.”
Daniel smiled. “Yes, I asked for Mora, but I would have thought you more a Starbucks man.” Daniel took a drink of his own Mora and smelled the aroma.
“I like all forms of coffee, but this is especially good. Maybe it’s the lack of pollution on the planet, but it tastes different then the coffee on earth,” Adam said.
“Adam you need to eat, not just have Mora. You’ve got to have strength for the test,” Jack said as he filled his plate with some Livist and Marcam.
“There is no strength required,” Julos said. “His pulse will be collected by the machines and if it registers an enemy, it will fire.”
“Does someone watch the machines all the time and direct their pulse to them?” Sam asked as she put some more Livist on her plate.
“No, the machines are set to detect the Naquada engines.” Julos said as he poured some Mora into his cup.
“So how can you test Adam?” Daniel asked.
“We have some machines that are manned in case the automated ones fail. We will be using those for our test,” Salom said as he looked at all the members of the team.
“On our way to Calom, we saw something destroy a ship. Was that the pulse?” Sam asked. She turned toward Julos, leaning forward in her chair.
“Yes.”
“It looked like a Goa’uld ship,” Sam said.
“You are correct. It was a Goa’uld ship,” Julos said as he waved to the waiter to refill the Marcam platter.
“Why didn’t the Goa’uld send another ship? In our experience, the Goa’uld will search for a destroyed ship,” Daniel said as he put some Marcam on his plate.
“Part of our defense system is a reverse tracking program. Whenever an unfriendly ship comes into our space, it is destroyed but an echo of the ship is sent along its trajectory. The place of origin receives a reading that the ship malfunctioned rather then it being destroyed. This has worked for many generations.”
“So these devices can destroy all types of ships?” Daniel asked, waving his hands in either direction.
“The device you are referring to specifically targets the Goa’uld ships. We have similar devices for other vessels.”
Daniel frowned and his brow furrowed. “I don’t understand. Can you please explain?”
Julos poured himself some Mora and filled his plate with Livist “Many years ago when our planet was first settled, the Goa’uld were seen in this area. Our ancestors knew the Goa’uld and feared for their safety, and developed the energy device to target their ships. The device was made to target the Naquada engines.”
“So you have many devices?” Adam clarified.
“No, the devices operate on many frequencies. We’ve adjusted them to first recognize the Goa’uld,” Julos said.
“Do you have many enemies? How do you tell the difference?”
“No we have few enemies and have not had war for many years. The device targets the Naquada engines, but not all engines. Many civilizations use Naquada, but only the Goa’uld have certain configurations to their ships. The device also recognizes Goa’uld ships as they are the only ones who use a rare metal in their design.”
“That makes sense. But what about your other enemies?” Jack asked as he placed his hands on the table.
“Any ship that carries weapons that are targeted or armed is eliminated. If the weapons are not targeted, we don’t destroy it. We are a peaceful planet and serve as a trading post for much of this sector. We offer cheap materials and goods and no civilization has tried to fight us in many years.” Julos continued his explanation and then took a drink from his glass.
“Sort of like Switzerland,” Daniel commented and then he finished the last of his Livist. Daniel put down his silverware and formed a pyramid with his hands, placing them under his chin.
Salom waved to the waiter to take everyone’s plates away. “What is Switzerland?”
“It is a country on our planets, much like the other land masses on Moriah,” Daniel said.
“I see. It is time for the test. Have all your questions been answered? We are all very anxious to see the results.” Julos motioned for SG-1 and Adam and Duncan to follow him.
Jack looked at his team, everyone giving a slight nod of their head. “Yes, we’re ready,” Jack said.
The team followed Julos as he walked on a paved road about a mile from the city. They arrived at a flat field where a large machine sat in the right corner of the field and a fence was erected at the other corner. “This is our practice field. The drone will be coming from this direction,” Julos said as he pointed to the west. The machine will pick up your aura.”
“How can you be sure that the machine is picking up Adam’s aura and not everyone else’s?” Sam asked. She waved her arm toward the small contingent of Moriahans.
“We will go behind the fence. The machine has a very short range. It is a safe guard. Only two people are on duty at any given time. The machine must be manually operated. This serves as a back up for our primary devices,” Julos said as he waved the Moriahans toward the fence.
“I’m not sure I understand. I thought the machines are powered by your Quickenings, not operated by people,” Sam asked as she looked over the device.
“Yes, you’re right. The machine collects the Quickening, as you call it, and shoots down the enemy. This machine is not kept on, but only monitored. We are turning it on and then walking out of its range. Adam will be close enough to activate its power. Two sentries monitor the sky and if a ship gets past our other devices, they turn this on and direct the pulse,” Julos explained. He showed Adam what switches to operate to send the decoys into the air.
He then followed Duncan and SG-1 behind the fence with the other Moriahans. They were using SG-1’s walkie talkie system to communicate.
“Ready, Adam,” Jack said as he pushed the button.
“Ready.” The drone had traveled 200 feet up in the air when a blast emanating from Adam’s position blew up the ship.
Watching the explosion from his vantage point, Jack pushed the Walkie Talkie, “Way to go Adam.”
“It seems similar to the Tollan defense towers; except they are activated by a Quickening rather then technology,” Carter said as she watched the demonstration.
“I do believe you are correct, Major Carter,” Teal’c said as he bowed his head slightly.
“We should try it again, Sir. Just to be sure,” Carter said.
‘Ah, Julos. Can we try again?” Jack asked as he placed his hands in his pockets and rocked on his heels a little.
“Of course,” he said.
“Adam,” Jack said. “Do it again. We don’t want this to be a fluke and not work the next time.”
Adam sent another decoy in the air and it was destroyed.
Everyone left the security of the fence area and walked toward Adam’s position. “It is good that your aura can operate the weapon,” Julos said as he approached Adam. “We didn’t think it would be strong enough, but it appears it is able to operate the weapon.” Turning toward Jack, Julos said, “Since Adam can operate the machine, my government is willing to trade them. We will allow you to take this machine with you to show your government.”
“Sweet,” Jack rubbed his hands together. “Wait till I show Hammond our anti- Goa’uld machine. Sure will take some heat off the SGC to find new ways to fight the snake heads.”
Daniel shook Julos’ hand. “Thank you for all your help. We will be returning home, but we will be sending another team to continue our negotiations,” Daniel said.
“You will not be returning?” Julos frowned. “I see. I was hoping to learn more about Adam and his aura, but maybe another time,” Julos said as he stuck his hand out to shake Adam’s hand.
“Probably not. Our team makes the initial contact with other civilizations, but we have other teams that continue negotiations,” Daniel explained as he crossed his arms across his chest.
Adam and Duncan looked at each other. Adam’s body became stiff and the slight smile he had on his face disappeared.
“I don’t go through the gate very often,” Adam said as he returned the handshake.
Julos nodded his head and bowed slightly. “It has been an honor to meet you and my government looks forward to a long and prosperous alliance.” Turning toward Adam, he said, “Perhaps you might make an exception and return to Moriah in the future. I see the air car is here to take you back to the gate. We will transport the machine by one of our ore transports.” Julos gestured to the transport that was arriving at the field.
When the air car and the transport arrived at the Gate, everyone disembarked and the Moriahans placed the machine on a pallet with wheels. SG-1 and the Immortals had their gear with them and were ready to depart. The pallet was easy to maneuver as it was operated by electronic controls, almost like a toy car. Only Julos and Salom were at the Gate to see the SG team off.
“It was a pleasure meeting you, Colonel O’Neill,” Julos said. “I wish you luck in your fight against the Goa’uld. I hope our weapons will make a difference.”
“Thank you, Julos.” Jack said, and then looked at Daniel. “Dial us home.”
Daniel hit the symbols for Earth and the Gate made its familiar worm hole. The pallet with the machine was operated by Carter. It led the way through the gate and remainder of SG-1 and the Immortals walked up the Gate ramp, returning to Earth.
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 2
CHAPTER 3
CHAPTER 4
Title: Ancient's Legacy
Written By:
sfscarletTimeline: Season 8 Stargate- anytime after 5th Highlander
Rating: R
Warnings: none
Summary: SG-1 seeks Methos and Duncan's help to find an ancient Goa'uld weapon
Author's Notes: Thank you to Spacebass, Tehomet, and Christie for the beta. Their feedback and commas are greatly appreciated.
“What the hell happened? That was one hell of a Quickening and I don’t remember fighting anyone,” Adam said as he looked around the area.
“The gun went off and killed Sharel. You must have been the closest Immortal and got her Quickening.”
“But how?”
“I don’t know, but we’re going into the great hall and maybe we’ll find out. Can you walk?”
“I’m not an invalid, Duncan. I just took a Quickening,” Adam said quietly as he stood up. He dusted off his pants and glanced at the members of SG-1. Jack and Daniel were eyeing him and started to walk toward him. Teal’c and Sam were talking to Julos.
“I’m fine,” Adam said to Jack and Daniel as they stood in front of him. “That was one hell of a Quickening. Sure wasn’t expecting that. I prefer to fight my enemies and receive their Quickening in a fair fight.” Adam walked next to Duncan and they entered the meeting room.
Carter, Daniel and Teal’c sat on one side of the table while Adam, Duncan and Jack were on the other side. Julos sat on one end and waited quietly for Salom to join them.
“That looked really painful, Adam,” Carter said.
“Indeed. Is it always that way?” Teal’c asked.
“It was very painful. That was a Quickening and the older a person is or the more Quickenings they have taken, the stronger the jolts.” Adam looked around the room and located the table with refreshments on it. He stood up and went to it, pouring himself some water. “Quickenings often leave you very drained and this one is no different.” He returned to the table as Salom entered the room.
Salom seated himself at the other end of the table and dipped his head in greeting. “You have the energy?” Salom asked Adam.
“Energy?”
“The pulse. We saw you take the energy when Sharel died?”
“We call it the Quickening. Yes, I have the energy.”
“How is that possible? You are not from Moriah and we have met no other visitors that have the energy. Our ancestors wrote of others like us, those who have the quickening energy, but we have never encountered them in our travels. No one has ever come to our planet that has the pulse.”
“What did the stories say,” Daniel asked. He placed his index finger up to his temple. “This is fascinating,” His eyes lit up like he had discovered the Rosetta stone and he had just deciphered the writings.
“Your ancestors?” Adam asked. “So you die and have children?”
“Of course,” Salom replied, thinking the question odd. “Everyone dies and most have children.”
Adam winced at the words and responded softly, “Not everyone.”
“I’m sorry for your loss,” Salom said in a saddened tone. “I don’t mean to bring sorrow.”
Realizing the confusion, Adam clarified, “Where I come from, people who have quickening energy can’t have children.” He looked at Julos and his eyes appeared to brighten. “Yes, Julos that was some of the information I was studying yesterday in your library.”
“I don’t understand. Please explain,” Julos said.
“On Earth all the people with Quickenings are foundlings. This doesn’t seem to be the case here. I’ve seen many children and I feel the aura from all of them.”
Both Moriahans nodded yes to the statement. “Everyone has the pulse. We are born with it and die with it.”
“Tell me what happens when a person dies. Does the pulse flow from the body like it did with Sharel?” Duncan asked.
“When someone is dying the family gathers round the person and when they pass, their pulse flows to the oldest member of the family,” Julos explained.
“What happens when the family isn’t around? Like today with Sharel,” Adam asked sitting up in his chair.
“Then the oldest person in the vicinity receives the pulse. When Sharel died, you must have been the oldest person in the area. I must say you do not look older then I am,” Salom said as he scrutinized Adam from his seat at the head of the table.
Salom felt the quickening energy coming from Adam, but when he focused on Daniel, he felt nothing. “You don’t have quickening energy.”
“Uh no,” Daniel answered as he crossed his hands over his chest.
Salom looked at Jack, “All of you do not possess the energy?”
“Nope. Only Adam and Duncan. The rest of us, no energy,” Jack said as he put up both hands, palms forward in a stopping motion.
“I’ve never found a traveler to have the pulse and we’re so used to feeling it amongst ourselves that Adam’s pulse didn’t register. Now that I have had time to think about this, I must share the news with Carel and the others.”
Daniel was still holding his notes from the negotiations. He placed them on the table. “Does the pulse have any special uses?” Daniel asked, hoping his guess was correct.
“It is used in our defenses. It powers the machines.”
“I see. How does it work?” Daniel asked, knowing that Jack would want one of those Goa’uld zappers.
“We usually do not sell them as our trade partners cannot use them. However, since Adam and Duncan have the energy they may be able to operate them. I will have to speak with the council.”
“Sweet,” said Jack too soft for Salom to hear.
“Sir,” Carter said as she gave her commanding officer a solemn look.
“I assume that Adam would be able to use the technology, but we can test it. If he can, I do not think our government will object. I will arrange for the test,” Salom said as he nodded his head. “Is that all? It has been a long and interesting morning and I would like to talk with Carel and the others.”
“We will meet tomorrow. I must see to Sharel’s body and talk to the council.”
“Until then,” Daniel nodded and the men stood, shaking hands, and then everyone left the room.
“Hammond will be ecstatic. Can’t wait to tell him we scored some anti Goa’uld machines,” Jack said as he placed his hands in his pockets and rocked on his heels.
“Daniel, about that,” Adam began. “Even if my Quickening can operate the machine, Duncan and I aren’t willing to babysit it and fight every Goa’uld attack that comes your way.”
“I know. I’m sure if it works, Sam and her scientists can backward engineer the thing so we won’t need you. We’ve been able to engineer many devices,” Jack said as he walked toward their quarters. “Let’s see if we can have the machines. We’ll worry about the attacks later.”
Everyone sat in the living area of the quarters. Adam poured himself some Gavel, an alcoholic beverage that he’d been given at dinner the night before. Popping the top on the bottle, he took a drink and then sat in the large overstuffed chair by the couch. “I wonder if I’ll be able to operate the machine?” He said to Jack.
“Of course, you will.” Jack smiled a huge grin. He was off duty but he did not allow himself to drink alcoholic beverages when on a mission. Instead he was nursing a glass of Salange juice. “I can’t wait to tell Hammond about our success. Finally someone who will share their toys.”
“We don’t know if Adam and Duncan can work the weapon. Let’s not get too excited,” Daniel said as he sat down at the small table in the room. He fidgeted with his papers and looked around at the light gray walls. This room, like the conference room was sedate, few colors to distract or add to the ambiance and it was filled with the basic necessities; a bed, a dresser, a mirror, an entertainment area and a large chair with a small square table. It reminded Daniel of a Holiday Inn back on Earth. He didn’t expect extravagant housing when off world, half the time; they were housed in a local leader’s home. It seemed that Moriah was not an extravagant planet and their inhabitants lead a fulfilling life without so many of the excesses the team saw on Earth and other planets. There were recreation facilities and entertainment areas but it appeared that they were open to everyone. It appeared there was little, if any, violence as evidenced by the lack of guns or weapons, except for the hidden Goa’uld destruction devices. It was interesting that the Goa’uld still came to the planet.
“Daniel, Daniel,” Jack said loudly as he shook Daniel’s shoulder. “What you thinking? I can almost see the wheels turning in there.”
“Oh, sorry. I was just thinking how strange this whole situation is. I mean the Goa’uld Hatek came here, was destroyed, but they didn’t send another one. If the Goa’uld continually send ships in to this area and the ships never come back, wouldn’t they get suspicious?” Daniel explained as he got up to grab a cup of Frem. Pouring the Frem, he walked around.
“Any thoughts people?”
“Daniel’s right, Sir. This doesn’t seem like the Goa’uld. If they sent a ship and it didn’t return, they would send another or come looking for it. I can’t see them forgetting about it,” Sam said as she frowned at her statement. Maybe it really wasn’t a Hatek.”
“I agree, DanielJackson. The Moriahans do not appear to be hiding information, but the situation does not fit the knowledge we have of the Goa’uld. I saw the ship and it did appear to be a Hatek. However the Moriahians have never said it was the Goa’uld. Maybe there is another enemy that we are not aware.”
“The device could destroy anything it feels is a threat,” Adam said, joining Daniel in his pacing the floor. “However, if that were the case, how would the device recognize an enemy over a trading partner? They did say they trade with other planets.”
“Maybe the device recognizes weapons or powered up weapons,” Duncan said as he retied his ponytail.
“I guess we will have to wait until the test tomorrow for our answers. Dinner will be brought here as I requested some private time with my team. It should arrive in about half an hour. Daniel, why don’t you make notes regarding your negotiations today so I can send them through the gate at check in? Check in is at 20:00. That should give you about four hours. The rest of you are free for the evening.”
“Uh, Jack,” Daniel said crossing his arms across his chest. “We never got to the negotiations. The runner came in just as we were starting.”
Jack raised his eyebrow and shrugged. “Okay. Guess we’ll tell Hammond we’re not ready yet. After tomorrow’s meeting, we’ll hopefully be able to report the biggest find since Zat guns.”
“Sir, I’m going to the market. I’d like to look at their goods,” Carter said.
“I will join Major Carter. Perhaps I will find something that is of interest,” Teal’c said.
“I’d like to go back to the Center,” Daniel said. “Do you want to come, Adam?”
“Do you think someone will let us in? Remember we have to have a card.”
“I’m sure we can find someone to let us in.”
“Sure. I’d love to do more research. Duncan, what do you want to do?”
“I think I will do a Kata and then maybe go for a run,” Duncan said as he turned toward their room.
“Only you would find exercise relaxing,” Adam laughed as he gave Duncan a smile.
“What about you, Jack?” Daniel asked.
“I think I’ll stroll around town. See if there is anything we didn’t see in our earlier tours.”
“See you later,” Daniel said as he and Adam walked out of the quarters.
Teal’c and Carter followed right behind them and Duncan left a few minutes later. Jack left shortly after the rest of the team. Several hours later, everyone returned form their journeys.
Their meal had just arrived and they sat around the small table in the kitchen area.
“Everyone have a good afternoon?” Jack asked.
“Yes, Adam and I were able to gain access to the Center and learned a little more about the planet and the original settlers,” Daniel said as he placed some meat on his plate.
“What about you, Carter, find any cool goods at the market?” Jack asked as he waved his fork in the air.
“Yes. They have beautiful jewelry. They make it themselves from the ores that they mine. I wish we could buy products from the inhabitants to bring back to earth.”
“Jack, did you find anything new?” Daniel asked.
“No. This is really as close to a Utopia as I’ve seen. I borrowed a car and went to the Gate to make my report to Hammond. I explained the situation and he’s willing to give us another day here to investigate the machines.”
The team completed their meal and talked for a while after the meal. “We’ve got an early morning. Salom said that he would meet us for morning meal at sunrise. I’m going to bed,” Jack reminded his team.
Everyone agreed sleep sounded good and turned in early.
The alarm buzzed on Jack’s watch. Sitting up in bed, he was instantly alert.
“Time to get up, Daniel,” he said as he shook Daniel’s shoulders gently.
Knocking on the adjoining door, he yelled, “Time to get up Carter, Teal’c.”
He walked into the living area and repeated his call to Adam and Duncan. “It’s show time, campers. We need to see if Adam can shoot down ships with his mind.” Listening to his statement, he laughed. “I did not just say that Adam was going to shoot down ships with his mind. I’ve been watching too many science fiction shows”
“Actually, Sir, if I understand the Moriahans correctly, your statement is somewhat correct. It is his Quickening that activates the machines that shoot the ships,” Sam said as she gathered her instruments.
“Indeed. That is my understanding as well,” Teal’c said as he finished lacing his boots.
Jack looked at his team,” Everybody ready?”
“Yes,” Daniel said as he gathered his notebook.
“Yes,” Duncan said as he looked at Adam.
“Yes,” Adam said.
“What about you big guy,” Jack said as he looked at Teal’c.
“I am ready as well.”
Jack rubbed his hands together; they went to meet Julos for breakfast.
“Good day,” Julos said. “I hope you slept well.”
“Just peachy,” Jack said.
“Peachy. I’m not familiar with that term,” Julos said.
“It is a local term. We slept well,” Sam said.
“Good,” Julos said. “Breakfast is ready. We have Livist, Frem and today we have Marcams as well.” Julos led them into the dining area where they had eaten almost all their meals. Today, as yesterday, there were few people in the room.
Carter chose to sit at the long table versus the smaller round table. The rest of the team joined her. Julos and Salom ate with them. Carter put Livist and Marcams on her plate. She poured some Mora as well. “The Marcams are good, Sir. They taste like eggs.”
Adam and Duncan sat across from each other. Adam poured some Mora into his cup and placed some Zil milk in as well. Taking a sip, he sighed with contentment. “Daniel did you put Mora on your list of items we want to trade. I’d like to take some back for later.”
Daniel smiled. “Yes, I asked for Mora, but I would have thought you more a Starbucks man.” Daniel took a drink of his own Mora and smelled the aroma.
“I like all forms of coffee, but this is especially good. Maybe it’s the lack of pollution on the planet, but it tastes different then the coffee on earth,” Adam said.
“Adam you need to eat, not just have Mora. You’ve got to have strength for the test,” Jack said as he filled his plate with some Livist and Marcam.
“There is no strength required,” Julos said. “His pulse will be collected by the machines and if it registers an enemy, it will fire.”
“Does someone watch the machines all the time and direct their pulse to them?” Sam asked as she put some more Livist on her plate.
“No, the machines are set to detect the Naquada engines.” Julos said as he poured some Mora into his cup.
“So how can you test Adam?” Daniel asked.
“We have some machines that are manned in case the automated ones fail. We will be using those for our test,” Salom said as he looked at all the members of the team.
“On our way to Calom, we saw something destroy a ship. Was that the pulse?” Sam asked. She turned toward Julos, leaning forward in her chair.
“Yes.”
“It looked like a Goa’uld ship,” Sam said.
“You are correct. It was a Goa’uld ship,” Julos said as he waved to the waiter to refill the Marcam platter.
“Why didn’t the Goa’uld send another ship? In our experience, the Goa’uld will search for a destroyed ship,” Daniel said as he put some Marcam on his plate.
“Part of our defense system is a reverse tracking program. Whenever an unfriendly ship comes into our space, it is destroyed but an echo of the ship is sent along its trajectory. The place of origin receives a reading that the ship malfunctioned rather then it being destroyed. This has worked for many generations.”
“So these devices can destroy all types of ships?” Daniel asked, waving his hands in either direction.
“The device you are referring to specifically targets the Goa’uld ships. We have similar devices for other vessels.”
Daniel frowned and his brow furrowed. “I don’t understand. Can you please explain?”
Julos poured himself some Mora and filled his plate with Livist “Many years ago when our planet was first settled, the Goa’uld were seen in this area. Our ancestors knew the Goa’uld and feared for their safety, and developed the energy device to target their ships. The device was made to target the Naquada engines.”
“So you have many devices?” Adam clarified.
“No, the devices operate on many frequencies. We’ve adjusted them to first recognize the Goa’uld,” Julos said.
“Do you have many enemies? How do you tell the difference?”
“No we have few enemies and have not had war for many years. The device targets the Naquada engines, but not all engines. Many civilizations use Naquada, but only the Goa’uld have certain configurations to their ships. The device also recognizes Goa’uld ships as they are the only ones who use a rare metal in their design.”
“That makes sense. But what about your other enemies?” Jack asked as he placed his hands on the table.
“Any ship that carries weapons that are targeted or armed is eliminated. If the weapons are not targeted, we don’t destroy it. We are a peaceful planet and serve as a trading post for much of this sector. We offer cheap materials and goods and no civilization has tried to fight us in many years.” Julos continued his explanation and then took a drink from his glass.
“Sort of like Switzerland,” Daniel commented and then he finished the last of his Livist. Daniel put down his silverware and formed a pyramid with his hands, placing them under his chin.
Salom waved to the waiter to take everyone’s plates away. “What is Switzerland?”
“It is a country on our planets, much like the other land masses on Moriah,” Daniel said.
“I see. It is time for the test. Have all your questions been answered? We are all very anxious to see the results.” Julos motioned for SG-1 and Adam and Duncan to follow him.
Jack looked at his team, everyone giving a slight nod of their head. “Yes, we’re ready,” Jack said.
The team followed Julos as he walked on a paved road about a mile from the city. They arrived at a flat field where a large machine sat in the right corner of the field and a fence was erected at the other corner. “This is our practice field. The drone will be coming from this direction,” Julos said as he pointed to the west. The machine will pick up your aura.”
“How can you be sure that the machine is picking up Adam’s aura and not everyone else’s?” Sam asked. She waved her arm toward the small contingent of Moriahans.
“We will go behind the fence. The machine has a very short range. It is a safe guard. Only two people are on duty at any given time. The machine must be manually operated. This serves as a back up for our primary devices,” Julos said as he waved the Moriahans toward the fence.
“I’m not sure I understand. I thought the machines are powered by your Quickenings, not operated by people,” Sam asked as she looked over the device.
“Yes, you’re right. The machine collects the Quickening, as you call it, and shoots down the enemy. This machine is not kept on, but only monitored. We are turning it on and then walking out of its range. Adam will be close enough to activate its power. Two sentries monitor the sky and if a ship gets past our other devices, they turn this on and direct the pulse,” Julos explained. He showed Adam what switches to operate to send the decoys into the air.
He then followed Duncan and SG-1 behind the fence with the other Moriahans. They were using SG-1’s walkie talkie system to communicate.
“Ready, Adam,” Jack said as he pushed the button.
“Ready.” The drone had traveled 200 feet up in the air when a blast emanating from Adam’s position blew up the ship.
Watching the explosion from his vantage point, Jack pushed the Walkie Talkie, “Way to go Adam.”
“It seems similar to the Tollan defense towers; except they are activated by a Quickening rather then technology,” Carter said as she watched the demonstration.
“I do believe you are correct, Major Carter,” Teal’c said as he bowed his head slightly.
“We should try it again, Sir. Just to be sure,” Carter said.
‘Ah, Julos. Can we try again?” Jack asked as he placed his hands in his pockets and rocked on his heels a little.
“Of course,” he said.
“Adam,” Jack said. “Do it again. We don’t want this to be a fluke and not work the next time.”
Adam sent another decoy in the air and it was destroyed.
Everyone left the security of the fence area and walked toward Adam’s position. “It is good that your aura can operate the weapon,” Julos said as he approached Adam. “We didn’t think it would be strong enough, but it appears it is able to operate the weapon.” Turning toward Jack, Julos said, “Since Adam can operate the machine, my government is willing to trade them. We will allow you to take this machine with you to show your government.”
“Sweet,” Jack rubbed his hands together. “Wait till I show Hammond our anti- Goa’uld machine. Sure will take some heat off the SGC to find new ways to fight the snake heads.”
Daniel shook Julos’ hand. “Thank you for all your help. We will be returning home, but we will be sending another team to continue our negotiations,” Daniel said.
“You will not be returning?” Julos frowned. “I see. I was hoping to learn more about Adam and his aura, but maybe another time,” Julos said as he stuck his hand out to shake Adam’s hand.
“Probably not. Our team makes the initial contact with other civilizations, but we have other teams that continue negotiations,” Daniel explained as he crossed his arms across his chest.
Adam and Duncan looked at each other. Adam’s body became stiff and the slight smile he had on his face disappeared.
“I don’t go through the gate very often,” Adam said as he returned the handshake.
Julos nodded his head and bowed slightly. “It has been an honor to meet you and my government looks forward to a long and prosperous alliance.” Turning toward Adam, he said, “Perhaps you might make an exception and return to Moriah in the future. I see the air car is here to take you back to the gate. We will transport the machine by one of our ore transports.” Julos gestured to the transport that was arriving at the field.
When the air car and the transport arrived at the Gate, everyone disembarked and the Moriahans placed the machine on a pallet with wheels. SG-1 and the Immortals had their gear with them and were ready to depart. The pallet was easy to maneuver as it was operated by electronic controls, almost like a toy car. Only Julos and Salom were at the Gate to see the SG team off.
“It was a pleasure meeting you, Colonel O’Neill,” Julos said. “I wish you luck in your fight against the Goa’uld. I hope our weapons will make a difference.”
“Thank you, Julos.” Jack said, and then looked at Daniel. “Dial us home.”
Daniel hit the symbols for Earth and the Gate made its familiar worm hole. The pallet with the machine was operated by Carter. It led the way through the gate and remainder of SG-1 and the Immortals walked up the Gate ramp, returning to Earth.
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 2
CHAPTER 3
CHAPTER 4
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