Chapter 186

Borealis

Sitting behind his desk in the expedition commander's office, Daniel sorted through several stacks of paperwork. One stack referenced developments on Earth and within the Milky Way. The other contained intelligence information gathered in the Pegasus galaxy. Reading intently, Daniel familiarized himself with the pertinent facts that he would soon brief his head of security on. The Milky Way portion of that briefing was one Daniel dreaded having to give.

Placing his glasses on the desk, Daniel breathed deeply. His thoughts raced, attempting to guess just what reaction he might receive from Teal'c. This is the less than enjoyable part of command he thought. Putting his glasses back on, he noted someone standing in his doorway. Expressionless for a brief moment, he motioned his old friend and colleague towards a seat in the room.

"Come on in Teal'c." Daniel began.

"Thank you Daniel Jackson." Teal'c replied.

"We've got a number of things to discuss. Would you like to begin with the Milky Way or Pegasus?" Daniel asked.

"I believe Pegasus should be first. It is more pertinent to our current mission." Teal'c answered.

"Pegasus it is. Our friends the Traveler's have passed along a few reports of Wraith cullings. Three worlds were hit." Daniel stated.

"Do we have an estimate of the numbers of humans taken during these attacks?" Teal'c asked.

"The Traveler's estimate twenty five hundred people lost between the three worlds. Carrying on with their recent tactics, every living person was culled." Daniel replied somberly.

"Perhaps they are intensifying their culling efforts due to our increased fleet presence in this galaxy. Fearing attack, it is logical that the Wraith capture as many humans as they can while they can." Teal'c theorized.

"I'm inclined to agree. We need to intensify our SG team's time in the field. Starting tomorrow, I would like to see the deployment schedule reflect that each team will be visiting three planets per week." Daniel suggested.

"The increase in operational tempo should allow our teams to generate further intelligence information. Tell me Daniel Jackson, did any of the worlds culled have a Furling crystal skull present?" Teal'c asked.

"Sadly, no. These were world's that refused to allow such a thing. We can't force them to do what's good for them. Even though we're here to protect these people, they don't always feel the need to make our job any easier." Daniel sighed.

"That is the nature of all beings Daniel Jackson." Teal'c conceded.

"Atlantis sent over the latest intel from the replicator program. It would seem that the repli-Wraith has infected a Hive and a majority of its crew to include the commander. That's not the interesting part though. Apparently the head Queen of the Wraith interrogated the repli-Wraith at length about our culling of her followers. She doesn't know what to make of our actions and at first had trouble believing it. After hearing it first hand from the lone survivor, tensions are high. This is where it gets interesting. The Queen made physical contact with the repli-Wraith. In the process she became infected. The lone nanite in her bloodstream is replicating, but not at anything like the levels we've seen in soldiers and commanders." Daniel explained.

"Could it be that she possesses some form of immunity from the nanites?" Teal'c asked.

"I wondered that also. After speaking with Doctor Keller and Rodney, I came away with conflicting opinions. Rodney is of the opinion that it's impossible she's immune. Keller on the other hand believes that it could be possible. Todd has been contacted to ascertain the answer, so I'll let you know the minute I hear an answer." Daniel replied.

"Now that the Wraith believe we are culling their numbers, they will react. A pivotal battle is the only logical outcome." Teal'c stated confidently.

"You might be right. Now, let's move on to the Milky Way. As your friend, I will say that I'm not enthused to be giving you this portion of the briefing." Daniel said almost apologetically.

"Then I will assume that this involves the ongoing conflict with the Jaffa." Teal'c said knowingly.

"That it does. Look Teal'c, some of this you might not want to hear." Daniel warned.

"Daniel Jackson, nothing you tell me will change my allegiance to the Tauri." Teal'c replied.

"As you are aware, following the attempted attack on Earth and Arkos forty thousand NATO ground troops were deployed to Goronak. Due to event's that were not explained to me, these troops remained in their encampments for some time." Daniel explained.

"They have attacked? The purpose of ground troops is to wage war. Your trepidation on explaining this happening to me is unnecessary." Teal'c instructed.

"I'm told that their attack is taking place at this moment. It has been made clear to me though that our forces launched a first strike meant to debilitate the Traditionalist leadership. This isn't the part I'm concerned about briefing you on." Daniel winced.

"This would be easier if you informed me without worry." Teal'c suggested.

"As you know, the remains of the Illac Renin were on Cor'ak." Daniel began.

"Yes, I am aware." Teal'c answered.

"Using intelligence Ishta helped develop, it was ascertained that the Illac Renin planned a second strike against Earth. Not Earth itself, but our moon. Had this been allowed to occur, all life on Earth would have been lost." Daniel said.

"Such an attack is a tactic for elimination of an opponent, not simple defeat." Teal'c stated.

"Yes, I know. Teal'c, the President ordered the military to mirror the enemy tactics. The moon of Cor'ak has been destroyed, along with any possible method of escape for those on the planet. Ry'ac and Rak'nor were aboard the Ajax to witness the attack." Daniel said delicately.

"How many Jaffa were on that world?" Teal'c asked.

"Estimates put the number in the thousands, but I don't have an exact number to give you." Daniel answered.

"Oprah of Chicago would call this tough love." Teal' said deadpan.

"It doesn't bother you just a little?" Daniel asked in an incredulous tone.

"As First Prime of Apophis, I laid siege to Cor'ak for many days. At my order, the Ha'tak fleet under my command bombarded this world from orbit and much life was lost. My only concern is how this will be viewed by Rak'nor and my son." Teal'c offered.

"That I don't know the answer to. I spoke with Jack about all of this. He is concerned about repercussions against Ry'ac because of your known association with Earth. I've been asked to extend the offer to pull your son out of potential danger and he will be given asylum." Daniel stated.

"He would not accept such an outcome. My son is many things Daniel Jackson; Foolish and headstrong are but two of them." Teal'c replied.

"Just think if over and let me know if you change your mind on this, ok?" Daniel asked.

"I will thank you." Teal'c answered.

"Ok, that's all I've got for you right now. A note was given to me before you arrived. You're needed at the overlook on the south pier when we're done, so I'll let you attend to that." Daniel said in closing.

Rising to his feet, Teal'c exited the office. Making his way through stargate operations, he quickly descended the stairs and entered the transport booth one level down. Stepping into the booth and entering his destination, Teal'c was transported to the booth nearest where he was needed. Finding himself outside in the sunshine and salt air, Teal'c strode towards the overlook at the end of the south pier.

As he drew nearer to the overlook, Teal'c looked around for just who might be needing him. All he saw in the distance was a lone figure standing at the rails of the overlook, dressed in flowing white robes. Searching his memory, he could think of no one aboard Borealis that matched this man's description. Who could this be and how could they have arrived without his knowledge? Coming closer and closer, Teal'c continued to wonder until the lone figure turned around and looked directly at him.

The sight of this man looking at him stopped Teal'c midstride, dead in his tracks. For a brief moment the brave former First Prime found himself barely able to draw a single breath. Instantly, his senses went on alert and perspiration formed on his brow. How was this possible?

"Greetings my son." The man began.

"This is not possible." Teal'c whispered to himself as his eyes began to tear slightly.

"It is possible Teal'c." The man replied while stepping forward and embracing Teal'c.

"Old man, how is this possible?" Teal'c asked quietly.

"Ascension was the reward for my part in efforts to protect Earth from the Goa'uld." Bra'tac replied.

"It is good to see you my friend. Never did I think we would cross paths again." Teal'c said warmly.

"I am here to discuss several matters with you, if you have time for an old man." Bra'tac stated with a smile.

"Nothing could prevent me from giving you the time you seek." Teal'c replied.

"Let me begin by telling you that Ry'ac is well. Unknown to him, I watch over him to keep him safe." Bra'tac explained.

"Thank you my friend." Teal'c replied with gratitude in his voice.

"I have watched this war between the Traditionalists and the Tauri. Many have died, and I fear many more will die before it reaches its end." Bra'tac stated.

"I too fear you are correct. The Traditionalists have antagonized a race they do not understand. Tauri military capabilities are unlike anything they are prepared to deal with. Four man SG teams were a problem for the Jaffa serving the System Lords. Now they face an entire army, and this army is highly trained and motivated I'm certain." Teal'c answered.

"I too agree that the Traditionalists have little chance of defeating the Tauri. Those on Cor'ak felt no fear of the Tauri attack when surrender was their only chance at survival. The war machine our former brothers face is frightening in its capabilities and resolve to see this conflict through to the end." Bra'tac continued.

"They are proud and fearsome warriors, as you and I learned many years ago. This is a lesson the Traditionalist's must learn for themselves." Teal'c offered.

"The Tauri are the new dominate race in the galaxy. War with them will both be the salvation of all Jaffa and bring us together, or will end in the extermination of our race. No other option exists as I see it, and the other ascended beings agree." Bra'tac stated knowingly.

"O'Neill often made use of a saying that fits this situation. They made their bed and now must lay in it." Teal'c replied.