By Fabrisse
Eternity --
A baby is so tiny. I thought potsherds were fragile, but this life in my arms is so delicate, so dependent.
He's mine, even if Sha're's body was possessed by another man -- it doesn't matter. Her son is my son. I caught him as he entered his life.
But I know what Harsesis means: a genetic memory of evil so pervasive it destroys all.
Ours son would not be safe -- Earth would not be safe -- if he came back with me.
Oma smiles with understanding. She'll be his mother. Here he's safe. She'll protect our son.
***
How long can an elevator ride last? It's always right to sacrifice the one for the many, but I thought, when the time came to make that choice, the one would be me.
Instead, it's a girl. How many days was *Cassandra* alone, surrounded by the dead? How much terror must we have brought her coming through the Stargate?
One child dying so all of us can live sounds simple, but it's wrong. No one should have to die alone.
It *is* my choice. Maybe we're far enough from the Stargate. Maybe not.
I notify the Colonel, then press Down.
***
Seriously, There's A Rule
Every physicist with a cat names it Schroedinger.
I missed my kitty -- and if you ever tell the Colonel or Teal'c that I called Schroedinger a kitty, I'll introduce you to the three-peat setting of the 'zat. But introducing the Tollan, and especially Narim, to the idea of a pet, not a work animal, was worth it. Besides, with all the off-world activity, Janet fed him more often than I did.
Seeing Narim again was great, but watching Schroedinger strut through the gate, tail held high, was even better.
After all, all cats are explorers.
***
Need
When the phone rings in the middle of the night, I reach for my glasses. Even Janet doesn't believe me when I tell her that I hear better with them on.
Jack finally got it when he had PT after a knee injury. I moved his cane out of reach when I went to get everyone a beer, and he freaked. Well, a little bit. He didn't think he could watch the game without having the cane nearby. Sam and Teal'c both teased him, but I just quietly moved it back.
Later, he said, "So that's what you meant."
***
The End
There were two. He recognized the one who stood quietly while the other asked him the question.
With some trouble, Hammond found his voice. "Are you sure?"
"Your wisdom is unquestioned. All we ask is that you follow the rules set."
"No interference." Hammond's eyes were hard. "Even when the Ori come from another galaxy?"
"Even when our old and dear friends the Asgard completed their cycle."
Hammond thought. "Some found ways to help."
"We believe you won't cross lines that aren't meant to be crossed."
The people surrounding his bed faded. He took Ska'ara's hand to ascend.