TW: *natural termination of pregnancy* *blood*
The moonlight illuminated just enough of the room. He awoke to an unusual and unpleasant sensation: the mattress felt damp. He pulled back the comforter to examine the source and turned on the light to confirm his concern: a scarlet stain was growing visibly around his bedmate's pelvis.
Jack, concern: Sam? (he straightened up and shook her lightly by the shoulder) Carter, wake up.
Sam turned to him, questioning him with her eyes: Hum?
Jack, softly: You're bleeding. (she straightened up, caught sight of the crimson-soaked sheets and widened her eyes. Not again, it wasn't possible, he thought. That was only three months ago, something wasn't right) The Valshamr is still in orbit?
Sam, in shock: I…
Jack: Hey? (she looked up at him, her eyes in a daze) Can you hear me?
Sam breathed: Yeah.
Jack: Where's your stone? (she moved her hand in the direction of the door but her gaze fell on her bloodied fingers. He tried to distract her by speaking a little louder) Your stone?
Sam emerged with difficulty: Living room. On the... On the coffee table.
He returned quickly and saw that she had remained in the same position: her eyes fixed on her knuckles.
Jack grimaced and sat down beside her: Carter? (she gently turned her head towards him) We've got to get going.
Sam, unable to think for herself: Yeah.
Jack held out his hand: Can you stand up?
She wanted to accept his support but saw that red color again. She backtracked, but he caught her first, helped her to her feet and activated the stone.
The moonlight illuminated just enough of the room. He awoke to an unusual and unpleasant sensation: the mattress felt damp. He pulled back the comforter to examine the source and turned on the light to confirm his concern: a scarlet stain was growing visibly around his bedmate's pelvis.
Jack, concern: Sam? (he straightened up and shook her lightly by the shoulder) Carter, wake up.
Sam turned to him, questioning him with her eyes: Hum?
Jack, softly: You're bleeding. (she straightened up, caught sight of the crimson-soaked sheets and widened her eyes. Not again, it wasn't possible, he thought. That was only three months ago, something wasn't right) The Valshamr is still in orbit?
Sam, in shock: I…
Jack: Hey? (she looked up at him, her eyes in a daze) Can you hear me?
Sam breathed: Yeah.
Jack: Where's your stone? (she moved her hand in the direction of the door but her gaze fell on her bloodied fingers. He tried to distract her by speaking a little louder) Your stone?
Sam emerged with difficulty: Living room. On the... On the coffee table.
He returned quickly and saw that she had remained in the same position: her eyes fixed on her knuckles.
Jack grimaced and sat down beside her: Carter? (she gently turned her head towards him) We've got to get going.
Sam, unable to think for herself: Yeah.
Jack held out his hand: Can you stand up?
She wanted to accept his support but saw that red color again. She backtracked, but he caught her first, helped her to her feet and activated the stone.
He frowned to discover they weren't on the Valshamr, looked around and Freyja quickly entered through the airlock.
Freyja indicated a platform in front of the control panel: Put her here. (The two humans looked at each other in surprise) Hurry.
Jack helped him to stand where a hologram of the Valshamr had last appeared.
Sam frowned: What do you-
Freyja moved the runes: Please. Stand aside, General O'Neill.
Hesitantly, he took a few steps back. Lights appeared from the ceiling and Sam felt herself flying through the air.
Sam, surprised: What…?!
Jack, not at all reassured: Uuh.
Freyja moved more runes and looked at the screen in front of her that had just appeared: Don't worry, Colonel Carter. I'm just checking on your condition.
Sam, sarcastically, still in the air but now lying down: I know my condition.
Freyja: The computer is treating you.
Jack approached Freyja: How come you're here?
Freyja continued to examine the screen: It's Tuesday.
Jack frowned: And?
Sam looked at the green lights circling around her: They come every first Tuesday, sir.
Freyja: The Valshamr has no plans for several hours. We received your signal, I assumed that our assistant was required. (The Asgard activated the rune again, Sam felt gravity return to normal and she landed gently on her feet) No internal bleeding. There is no danger.
Týr appeared and faces turned towards him. He began waving his arms at Freyja, shouting in their language, and an argument ensued.
Jack mumbled: Oh for crying out loud. (to Asgards) HEY!
Týr quickly turned to the humans: Please accept our apologies. I had not been informed of your visit.
Jack, cynically: Neither are we.
Týr looked at Sam: How do you feel, Colonel Carter?
Sam: Better, thank you. (she grimaces and regards Jack) I'd like to go home and change.
Jack to Asgard: Is she all right? Are you sure?
Týr asked Freyja for confirmation in Asgard.
Freyja blinked at the couple: Everything's going well for her.
Sam frowned: Wait, I thought the treaty was clear. Weren't you supposed to intervene in anything other than the P5X-777 moon project?
Týr: Hope.
The earthlings looked at him uncomprehendingly.
Jack: Excuse me?
Týr: Era 487.46.48. The Alliance has granted the Moon the appellation of "Hope".
Sam happily surprised: Oh.
Jack: That sounds pretty good.
Sam, to Týr: So? You've just intervened.
Freyja, after a few exchanges with her colleague: We're on a mission.
Jack, suspicious: What mission?
Freyja: Sessrúmnir's.
Sam frowned, remembering what Týr had told them: "To protect the survival of living species"?
Týr bowed his head: Correct.
Sam raised her eyebrows: So you can protect us from the Ori?
Týr, after exchanging a glance with his colleague: No. You'll have to take this up directly with the Council.
Freyja, seeing that this answer left them perplexed: Nevertheless, our treaty covers Hope. And you are part of Hope.
Jack squinted at them, still unconvinced: Are you buddies with Loki?
Sam quickly turned her head towards him, appalled by the idea. Týr and Freyja got into a heated discussion, then Týr turned to the humans.
Týr: We're not.
Sam stepped towards them, now suspicious herself: What General O'neill meant to say was, "Do you test on humans?"
Týr: The Asgard Council forbids all Asgard to carry out tests on Earthlings.
Sam, not satisfied with this answer: But...?
Týr: We're still collecting data on humans in the rest of this galaxy, indeed. But the Asgard decree with your planet forbids any Asgard from collecting data on Earthlings.
Jack moved his hand and imitated Sam: But...?
The two Asgard blinked several times.
Týr: Era 297.64.08. (the two humans seemed lost in turn) Your scientists are involved in research into the problems of cloning with Asgards. We only collect the data obtained from this research and the information provided.
Sam glanced at Jack: Yes. But that wasn't our point. But that wasn't our point. (the Asgard stared at her) Well, you've been keeping a close eye on the humans of the galaxy for several years without them knowing.
Jack adds: And Loki.
Týr harshly: We don't approve of Loki's methods!
Freyja firmly: Nor your insinuations.
Jack, understanding that they had insulted them: Hu. Sorry guys, it's just...
Freyja quickly moved a rune so as not to raise this point again. A hologram of P5X-777 and its moon appeared.
Sam approached the data screen, curious: What's this?
Týr: The reason we're here. From now on, we'll orbit Hope as a line of defense.
After activating a rune, a 3D representation of the Sessrúmnir appeared and began to spin faster and faster around the planet and moon, forming an extremely luminous force field encompassing both celestial bodies.
Jack, curious: What is it?
Freyja: My latest acquisition. A shield named Brísingar.
Sam raised her eyebrows at the data, impressed: Wow! With the ship's propulsion?
Freyja: Exactly.
Jack: Carter?
Sam: General, this technology uses the force of gravitational interaction to form a protective field. (she mimics a ball with both hands) The ship is charged with solar energy and rotates rapidly like an electron around P5X-777 and its moon like protons and neutrons?
Sam nodded her head: Exactly.
He smiled and looked at the Asgard, proud of himself for having understood. The Asgard blinked silently, and Sam leaned her head towards him to insist that she really needed to change and shower.
Jack: Right. (he clapped his hands, then pointed to the hologram) Well done on that... thing and-
Freyja moved the rune on the console in front of her, making them disappear in a halo of light.
Notes:
*Remember now that my fanfic is called "Control of Hope", with... a capital "H"... :D*
*In my Chapter 7, Sam says to Jack: "After our first mission, those thousands of other worlds to visit, I thought I'd give it a few more months. Maybe... somewhere else... there was hope."*
*The Brísingar necklace is the necklace of the goddess Freyja in Norse mythology. This necklace had the property of supporting any army the goddess decided to favor on the battlefield. (source)*
*Video: The story begins with Loki, the trickster and manipulator god, whose inquisitive nature leads him to discover the existence of the necklace. Intrigued by its beauty, he sets out to steal it. Loki goes to the dwarves and manages, by cunning and deceptive means, to obtain the necklace from the Brísingar. However, the dwarves, angry at having been deceived, curse the necklace, associating it with conflict and misfortune.
When Freyja realizes that her precious necklace has been stolen, she is filled with grief and anger. She's determined to get it back, because the necklace means so much more to her than its material value. It's a symbol of her beauty and power as a goddess of love. Freyja embarks on a quest to recover the necklace, and her determination leads her to Loki, who is quickly unmasked as the thief.
The quest for the Brísingar necklace highlights the issues of power, betrayal and redemption. Freyja, ready to do anything to regain what is hers, faces difficult choices and moral dilemmas. Loki, for his part, is confronted with the consequences of his actions and the realization that his lies and deceit only compound the problems.
Beyond the intrigue, The Legend of the Brísingar Necklace raises questions about the value of material possessions, the changing nature of human and divine relationships, and how the actions of individuals can influence the world around them." (source)*
Freyja indicated a platform in front of the control panel: Put her here. (The two humans looked at each other in surprise) Hurry.
Jack helped him to stand where a hologram of the Valshamr had last appeared.
Sam frowned: What do you-
Freyja moved the runes: Please. Stand aside, General O'Neill.
Hesitantly, he took a few steps back. Lights appeared from the ceiling and Sam felt herself flying through the air.
Sam, surprised: What…?!
Jack, not at all reassured: Uuh.
Freyja moved more runes and looked at the screen in front of her that had just appeared: Don't worry, Colonel Carter. I'm just checking on your condition.
Sam, sarcastically, still in the air but now lying down: I know my condition.
Freyja: The computer is treating you.
Jack approached Freyja: How come you're here?
Freyja continued to examine the screen: It's Tuesday.
Jack frowned: And?
Sam looked at the green lights circling around her: They come every first Tuesday, sir.
Freyja: The Valshamr has no plans for several hours. We received your signal, I assumed that our assistant was required. (The Asgard activated the rune again, Sam felt gravity return to normal and she landed gently on her feet) No internal bleeding. There is no danger.
Týr appeared and faces turned towards him. He began waving his arms at Freyja, shouting in their language, and an argument ensued.
Jack mumbled: Oh for crying out loud. (to Asgards) HEY!
Týr quickly turned to the humans: Please accept our apologies. I had not been informed of your visit.
Jack, cynically: Neither are we.
Týr looked at Sam: How do you feel, Colonel Carter?
Sam: Better, thank you. (she grimaces and regards Jack) I'd like to go home and change.
Jack to Asgard: Is she all right? Are you sure?
Týr asked Freyja for confirmation in Asgard.
Freyja blinked at the couple: Everything's going well for her.
Sam frowned: Wait, I thought the treaty was clear. Weren't you supposed to intervene in anything other than the P5X-777 moon project?
Týr: Hope.
The earthlings looked at him uncomprehendingly.
Jack: Excuse me?
Týr: Era 487.46.48. The Alliance has granted the Moon the appellation of "Hope".
Sam happily surprised: Oh.
Jack: That sounds pretty good.
Sam, to Týr: So? You've just intervened.
Freyja, after a few exchanges with her colleague: We're on a mission.
Jack, suspicious: What mission?
Freyja: Sessrúmnir's.
Sam frowned, remembering what Týr had told them: "To protect the survival of living species"?
Týr bowed his head: Correct.
Sam raised her eyebrows: So you can protect us from the Ori?
Týr, after exchanging a glance with his colleague: No. You'll have to take this up directly with the Council.
Freyja, seeing that this answer left them perplexed: Nevertheless, our treaty covers Hope. And you are part of Hope.
Jack squinted at them, still unconvinced: Are you buddies with Loki?
Sam quickly turned her head towards him, appalled by the idea. Týr and Freyja got into a heated discussion, then Týr turned to the humans.
Týr: We're not.
Sam stepped towards them, now suspicious herself: What General O'neill meant to say was, "Do you test on humans?"
Týr: The Asgard Council forbids all Asgard to carry out tests on Earthlings.
Sam, not satisfied with this answer: But...?
Týr: We're still collecting data on humans in the rest of this galaxy, indeed. But the Asgard decree with your planet forbids any Asgard from collecting data on Earthlings.
Jack moved his hand and imitated Sam: But...?
The two Asgard blinked several times.
Týr: Era 297.64.08. (the two humans seemed lost in turn) Your scientists are involved in research into the problems of cloning with Asgards. We only collect the data obtained from this research and the information provided.
Sam glanced at Jack: Yes. But that wasn't our point. But that wasn't our point. (the Asgard stared at her) Well, you've been keeping a close eye on the humans of the galaxy for several years without them knowing.
Jack adds: And Loki.
Týr harshly: We don't approve of Loki's methods!
Freyja firmly: Nor your insinuations.
Jack, understanding that they had insulted them: Hu. Sorry guys, it's just...
Freyja quickly moved a rune so as not to raise this point again. A hologram of P5X-777 and its moon appeared.
Sam approached the data screen, curious: What's this?
Týr: The reason we're here. From now on, we'll orbit Hope as a line of defense.
After activating a rune, a 3D representation of the Sessrúmnir appeared and began to spin faster and faster around the planet and moon, forming an extremely luminous force field encompassing both celestial bodies.
Jack, curious: What is it?
Freyja: My latest acquisition. A shield named Brísingar.
Sam raised her eyebrows at the data, impressed: Wow! With the ship's propulsion?
Freyja: Exactly.
Jack: Carter?
Sam: General, this technology uses the force of gravitational interaction to form a protective field. (she mimics a ball with both hands) The ship is charged with solar energy and rotates rapidly like an electron around P5X-777 and its moon like protons and neutrons?
Sam nodded her head: Exactly.
He smiled and looked at the Asgard, proud of himself for having understood. The Asgard blinked silently, and Sam leaned her head towards him to insist that she really needed to change and shower.
Jack: Right. (he clapped his hands, then pointed to the hologram) Well done on that... thing and-
Freyja moved the rune on the console in front of her, making them disappear in a halo of light.
Notes:
*Remember now that my fanfic is called "Control of Hope", with... a capital "H"... :D*
*In my Chapter 7, Sam says to Jack: "After our first mission, those thousands of other worlds to visit, I thought I'd give it a few more months. Maybe... somewhere else... there was hope."*
*The Brísingar necklace is the necklace of the goddess Freyja in Norse mythology. This necklace had the property of supporting any army the goddess decided to favor on the battlefield. (source)*
*Video: The story begins with Loki, the trickster and manipulator god, whose inquisitive nature leads him to discover the existence of the necklace. Intrigued by its beauty, he sets out to steal it. Loki goes to the dwarves and manages, by cunning and deceptive means, to obtain the necklace from the Brísingar. However, the dwarves, angry at having been deceived, curse the necklace, associating it with conflict and misfortune.
When Freyja realizes that her precious necklace has been stolen, she is filled with grief and anger. She's determined to get it back, because the necklace means so much more to her than its material value. It's a symbol of her beauty and power as a goddess of love. Freyja embarks on a quest to recover the necklace, and her determination leads her to Loki, who is quickly unmasked as the thief.
The quest for the Brísingar necklace highlights the issues of power, betrayal and redemption. Freyja, ready to do anything to regain what is hers, faces difficult choices and moral dilemmas. Loki, for his part, is confronted with the consequences of his actions and the realization that his lies and deceit only compound the problems.
Beyond the intrigue, The Legend of the Brísingar Necklace raises questions about the value of material possessions, the changing nature of human and divine relationships, and how the actions of individuals can influence the world around them." (source)*
CW: *Traumatic recall of sexual violence*
She took advantage of these few moments of rest to rest her elbows on her knees and close her eyes. Unfortunately for her, Daniel was sitting two benches away, rummaging in his pocket for a hobby. She turned her head towards him at his agitation and froze when she spotted the tennis ball.
She took advantage of these few moments of rest to rest her elbows on her knees and close her eyes. Unfortunately for her, Daniel was sitting two benches away, rummaging in his pocket for a hobby. She turned her head towards him at his agitation and froze when she spotted the tennis ball.
Hmm.
No.
He's not going to...?
No.
He's not going to...?
Bam bam.
Yep. He does.
Bam bam.
Ok.
Bam bam.
Well.
Bam bam.
She turned her head and tried to think of something else.
Bam bam.
Just take it easy. Don't think about anything. All is well.
Bam bam.
Her right leg began to move on its own, nervously.
Bam bam.
Bam bam.
No, but that's not possible. He saw inside your head. He knows.
Bam bam.
Or didn't he see anything?
Bam bam.
She frowned, overcome with doubt.
What did he see?
Bam bam.
Um, after all, you've been avoiding this conversation with him for quite some time.
Bam bam.
Good God, you chicken.
Bam bam.
We're going to have to do something about it, it's driving me crazy!
Bam bam.
She turned her head and looked at him for a moment.
Bam bam.
Come on, Sam, now's the perfect time.
Bam bam.
Say something NOW!
Sam with an embarrassed smile: Would you please stop? (he stopped abruptly, keeping the ball in his hand, and questioned her with his eyes.) It's kinda making me nervous.
She stared at him, almost begging him to take the hint that she was ready to talk to him at last.
Daniel: Ah, sorry. It's just the implications of this referendum are tremendous. We take democracy for granted, but these Jaffa, they-
Notes:
*Daniel and Jack very often played together with a tennis ball in the background in several scenes of the saga, but silently and Carter was not present or if she entered the room, they stopped playing to get back to work (advancing the story of the episode)*
*Reminder of my chapter 7:
“Sam : That mixture of the muffled whirring of the fans on the lab machines, the students hanging out in the corridors late at night... And that damned.... Bam bam. Bam bam. Bam bam.
Jack, a little confused: Hm?
Sam opened her eyes again: Bouncing balls on the courts next door. The Tennis courts overlooked the windows and were often left open because of the heat given off by the machines. (She turned her head toward him) That noise. On a loop. Bam bam. Bam bam. I concentrated on it to forget what was happening.”*
She stared at him, almost begging him to take the hint that she was ready to talk to him at last.
Daniel: Ah, sorry. It's just the implications of this referendum are tremendous. We take democracy for granted, but these Jaffa, they-
Notes:
*Daniel and Jack very often played together with a tennis ball in the background in several scenes of the saga, but silently and Carter was not present or if she entered the room, they stopped playing to get back to work (advancing the story of the episode)*
*Reminder of my chapter 7:
“Sam : That mixture of the muffled whirring of the fans on the lab machines, the students hanging out in the corridors late at night... And that damned.... Bam bam. Bam bam. Bam bam.
Jack, a little confused: Hm?
Sam opened her eyes again: Bouncing balls on the courts next door. The Tennis courts overlooked the windows and were often left open because of the heat given off by the machines. (She turned her head toward him) That noise. On a loop. Bam bam. Bam bam. I concentrated on it to forget what was happening.”*
She entered his quarters after receiving authorization, and he discovered her nervous.
Teal’c: You seem particularly concerned.
Sam breathed out the stress: Yes. A little. (she bent her head and admitted) More than a little.
Teal’c stared at her: How can I help you?
Sam looked at him: Hum. By... understanding me?
Teal’c raised an eyebrow: Didn't I show you?
Sam raised a hand to understand the misunderstanding: Huuu. No you are. Always. Sorry. (she grimaced) I... I must confess something, but... I'm afraid of your reaction. (he stiffened and she found the courage) Can we talk about what happened with Ka'lel?
Teal’c looked at her, puzzled: I'm listening.
Sam: Don't you think she was right, though?
Teal’c contracted his jaw several times: She was influenced.
Sam: That's not my point.
Teal’c: What is it?
Sam looked away, then regained her courage: Don't you think that by favoring one group of people for victory, you're leaving others behind? (he contracted his jaw again and she added cautiously) You could all move forward to victory even if that path is a little steeper. (he continued to stare at her in silence so she tried another argument) Perhaps the important thing is not to know who suffers more but to know how to stop their suffering... (he continued to wall himself in his silence and she moistened her lips with nervousness) Okay. Teal'c... I'm trying to tell you something about myself that might change our relationship forever or... Or just the way you see me... And... I don't want that. (he still stared at her without a word and she swallowed, thinking back to Jack) But... I have to tell you because I feel like I'm lying to you. (she bit her lip, lowered her head and was silent for a moment) Sorry, I... I don't know how to say it.
Teal’c: I think you should say it from the heart. (She looked up at him, remembering his words at Janet's death. Nevertheless, she looked away, terrified, and he inclined his head again to encourage her) You can trust me, Colonel Carter.
Notes:
*When Sam says "But... I have to tell you because I feel like I'm lying to you. "this refers to Jack confessing to Sam that he too has been raped in my chapter 16: "Jack: I have this new feeling that I'm lying to you and... "*
*In an interview, Christopher Judge (who plays Teal'c) said, "I don't think Teal'c realized Carter was a woman until season 4." (source)*
*In militant circles, struggles often converge. Let's take the example of anti-racism and anti-sexism struggles. Very often, each considers its own struggle to be more important because it concerns it personally, and it's easier to understand one's own injustices than to put oneself in the boots of the other. So each community spends its energy fighting against its own injustice. In this example, however, it's invisibilizing non-white women who, for example, suffer double discrimination: racism AND sexism. However, you can't compare the two: the political stakes and powers of domination are different, and they clash. For example, statistically, it's men who assault women the most, BUT white women still enjoy privileges that non-white people don't, and have participated in colonization, owned slaves, etc.).
The aim is to put up a united front without forgetting what is still unbalanced in terms of rights, and not to forget what has been done.*
*Articles and videos on the convergence of struggles (source) (source)*
Teal’c: You seem particularly concerned.
Sam breathed out the stress: Yes. A little. (she bent her head and admitted) More than a little.
Teal’c stared at her: How can I help you?
Sam looked at him: Hum. By... understanding me?
Teal’c raised an eyebrow: Didn't I show you?
Sam raised a hand to understand the misunderstanding: Huuu. No you are. Always. Sorry. (she grimaced) I... I must confess something, but... I'm afraid of your reaction. (he stiffened and she found the courage) Can we talk about what happened with Ka'lel?
Teal’c looked at her, puzzled: I'm listening.
Sam: Don't you think she was right, though?
Teal’c contracted his jaw several times: She was influenced.
Sam: That's not my point.
Teal’c: What is it?
Sam looked away, then regained her courage: Don't you think that by favoring one group of people for victory, you're leaving others behind? (he contracted his jaw again and she added cautiously) You could all move forward to victory even if that path is a little steeper. (he continued to stare at her in silence so she tried another argument) Perhaps the important thing is not to know who suffers more but to know how to stop their suffering... (he continued to wall himself in his silence and she moistened her lips with nervousness) Okay. Teal'c... I'm trying to tell you something about myself that might change our relationship forever or... Or just the way you see me... And... I don't want that. (he still stared at her without a word and she swallowed, thinking back to Jack) But... I have to tell you because I feel like I'm lying to you. (she bit her lip, lowered her head and was silent for a moment) Sorry, I... I don't know how to say it.
Teal’c: I think you should say it from the heart. (She looked up at him, remembering his words at Janet's death. Nevertheless, she looked away, terrified, and he inclined his head again to encourage her) You can trust me, Colonel Carter.
Notes:
*When Sam says "But... I have to tell you because I feel like I'm lying to you. "this refers to Jack confessing to Sam that he too has been raped in my chapter 16: "Jack: I have this new feeling that I'm lying to you and... "*
*In an interview, Christopher Judge (who plays Teal'c) said, "I don't think Teal'c realized Carter was a woman until season 4." (source)*
*In militant circles, struggles often converge. Let's take the example of anti-racism and anti-sexism struggles. Very often, each considers its own struggle to be more important because it concerns it personally, and it's easier to understand one's own injustices than to put oneself in the boots of the other. So each community spends its energy fighting against its own injustice. In this example, however, it's invisibilizing non-white women who, for example, suffer double discrimination: racism AND sexism. However, you can't compare the two: the political stakes and powers of domination are different, and they clash. For example, statistically, it's men who assault women the most, BUT white women still enjoy privileges that non-white people don't, and have participated in colonization, owned slaves, etc.).
The aim is to put up a united front without forgetting what is still unbalanced in terms of rights, and not to forget what has been done.*
*Articles and videos on the convergence of struggles (source) (source)*
A curious Daniel threaded his way between the numerous naquadah delivery containers to reach Teal'c, who was waiting, looking worried but determined, for the excitement to die down so that he too could pass through the portal.
Daniel sat down beside him and looked in the same direction as him: A problem?
Teal’c: None.
Daniel tried: Are you joining Bra'tac on Dakara?
Teal’c contracted his jaw several times: Sort of.
The archaeologist turned his head to him for further explanation of his mysteries, but to no avail. He rested his gaze on the soldiers pushing the cargo through the narrow corridors.
Daniel gave up trying to find out more and crossed his arms: If this continues, this base will become an import-export business. Can you imagine that? (Teal'c didn't seem to react, and Daniel tried something else) Delivery of P3X-403?
Teal’c: Indeed.
Daniel frowned slightly: I don't recall reading any reports of a new operating partnership.
Teal’c turned her head towards him, now intrigued: What do you mean, Doctor Jackson?
Daniel put his glasses back on properly: Well, the Unas had offered to mine the naquadah for us to take part in the war against the Goa'uld, but now that the war is over, the naquadah is being used to counter the Ori. I wonder if the IOA warned them of this change.
Teal'c ponders his words as he rests his gaze on the chappai.
(micro) Walter, the room finally cleared: Start of sequence.
Notes:
*Information on P3X-403 (source)*
Daniel sat down beside him and looked in the same direction as him: A problem?
Teal’c: None.
Daniel tried: Are you joining Bra'tac on Dakara?
Teal’c contracted his jaw several times: Sort of.
The archaeologist turned his head to him for further explanation of his mysteries, but to no avail. He rested his gaze on the soldiers pushing the cargo through the narrow corridors.
Daniel gave up trying to find out more and crossed his arms: If this continues, this base will become an import-export business. Can you imagine that? (Teal'c didn't seem to react, and Daniel tried something else) Delivery of P3X-403?
Teal’c: Indeed.
Daniel frowned slightly: I don't recall reading any reports of a new operating partnership.
Teal’c turned her head towards him, now intrigued: What do you mean, Doctor Jackson?
Daniel put his glasses back on properly: Well, the Unas had offered to mine the naquadah for us to take part in the war against the Goa'uld, but now that the war is over, the naquadah is being used to counter the Ori. I wonder if the IOA warned them of this change.
Teal'c ponders his words as he rests his gaze on the chappai.
(micro) Walter, the room finally cleared: Start of sequence.
Notes:
*Information on P3X-403 (source)*
He found her chatting with other board members in the corridor.
Teal’c exclaimed: Ka'lel!
Ka’lel thanked the others and then addressed him: I have passed the rite of Mal Sharran. Worry no more, brother.
Teal’c: Follow me.
Reluctantly, she followed him into an out-of-sight branch, where a third person was waiting for them.
Ka’lel surprised: Ishta?
Ishta stretched out her arm towards her: Tek ma te, Ka’lel.
Ka'lel grabbed her arm and the two women bowed their heads.
Ka’lel: What does it all mean?
Ishta to Ka’lel: I'm as much in the dark as you are, sister. Teal'c wouldn't tell me any more without you being there.
So they turned their attention to him.
Teal’c contracted his jaw: We must find a way to unite.
Notes:
*Reminder from my previous chapter: Sam refrains from asking her if Chulak had followed Ishta's and her sisters' lead in training young girls too, thinking it unseemly. "*
*Here you have a concrete example of what the convergence of struggles is all about, explained two paragraphs before: we must fight for all oppressions, even those where we're not concerned*
Teal’c exclaimed: Ka'lel!
Ka’lel thanked the others and then addressed him: I have passed the rite of Mal Sharran. Worry no more, brother.
Teal’c: Follow me.
Reluctantly, she followed him into an out-of-sight branch, where a third person was waiting for them.
Ka’lel surprised: Ishta?
Ishta stretched out her arm towards her: Tek ma te, Ka’lel.
Ka'lel grabbed her arm and the two women bowed their heads.
Ka’lel: What does it all mean?
Ishta to Ka’lel: I'm as much in the dark as you are, sister. Teal'c wouldn't tell me any more without you being there.
So they turned their attention to him.
Teal’c contracted his jaw: We must find a way to unite.
Notes:
*Reminder from my previous chapter: Sam refrains from asking her if Chulak had followed Ishta's and her sisters' lead in training young girls too, thinking it unseemly. "*
*Here you have a concrete example of what the convergence of struggles is all about, explained two paragraphs before: we must fight for all oppressions, even those where we're not concerned*
Dressed in civilian clothes, motorcycle helmet under her arm and ready to go home, she poked her head through Daniel's office door and saw her two colleagues, their faces closed.
Sam gently approached: And I was going to wish you a "good evening".
Cameron: We're celebrating our survival and the downfall of humanity. Come and join us!
Sam played with her motorcycle keys to make him understand that she was about to hit the road: Hmm. I heard the news.
Daniel: While we're on the subject of human decay, did you hear what happened to Fisher?
Cameron raised his eyes to the sky and grumbled: What has he done now?
She juggled her gaze between the two, amazed that he potentially blamed him for being Patient Zero of Ori fever.
Sam: Uh?
Cameron, fed up: Inappropriate behavior a few months ago.
Daniel grimaced: Except this time it's not his fault. (they looked at him) He was stopped by the police while driving.
Sam, surprised: Speeding?
Cameron at the same time: Red light?
Sam and Cameron turned their heads towards each other and stared at each other.
Daniel, nervous: None of the above. In fact... no reason at all.
Cameron: Hu?
Daniel, uncomfortable: The policemen were white.
Sam and Cameron, at the same time: What?
They looked at each other again.
Daniel tapped on his laptop: This was filmed by the agents' cameras. It's on a loop.
Sam gritted her teeth at the video: He's got his uniform on.
Cameron adds: And the military car.
Sam grimaced and looked at the video again: JI think I know one of the men. He's the local sheriff. (she confessed) He leaves me alone when he checks me for speeding.
Cameron: Damn. It doesn't give you hope.
Daniel looked at her: Right?
She frowned and he glanced from her to his colleague. She gave a small chuckle of embarrassment, understanding what he was implying.
Cameron looked at them: Okay, you start again with your looks. Another test?
Sam juggled her gaze between the two one last time: Hum. (she looked at Daniel) It's no longer our decision to make. (Cameron looked even more puzzled, but Daniel accepted the argument with a shake of his head. She straightened up) Good evening, gentlemen.
Notes:
*Video: Police encounter with black army officer is a hurtful reminder that "service won't save you," veterans say. (source) (source)*
*Article: racism affects non-white soldiers too (source)*
*In my video montage, you can see episodes from 9x17, i.e. passages from a future episode (two episodes after the chronology of this paragraph), they are there to show you the fact that Daniel, Teal'c and Carter still consider Cameron to be the "new guy "*
Sam gently approached: And I was going to wish you a "good evening".
Cameron: We're celebrating our survival and the downfall of humanity. Come and join us!
Sam played with her motorcycle keys to make him understand that she was about to hit the road: Hmm. I heard the news.
Daniel: While we're on the subject of human decay, did you hear what happened to Fisher?
Cameron raised his eyes to the sky and grumbled: What has he done now?
She juggled her gaze between the two, amazed that he potentially blamed him for being Patient Zero of Ori fever.
Sam: Uh?
Cameron, fed up: Inappropriate behavior a few months ago.
Daniel grimaced: Except this time it's not his fault. (they looked at him) He was stopped by the police while driving.
Sam, surprised: Speeding?
Cameron at the same time: Red light?
Sam and Cameron turned their heads towards each other and stared at each other.
Daniel, nervous: None of the above. In fact... no reason at all.
Cameron: Hu?
Daniel, uncomfortable: The policemen were white.
Sam and Cameron, at the same time: What?
They looked at each other again.
Daniel tapped on his laptop: This was filmed by the agents' cameras. It's on a loop.
Sam gritted her teeth at the video: He's got his uniform on.
Cameron adds: And the military car.
Sam grimaced and looked at the video again: JI think I know one of the men. He's the local sheriff. (she confessed) He leaves me alone when he checks me for speeding.
Cameron: Damn. It doesn't give you hope.
Daniel looked at her: Right?
She frowned and he glanced from her to his colleague. She gave a small chuckle of embarrassment, understanding what he was implying.
Cameron looked at them: Okay, you start again with your looks. Another test?
Sam juggled her gaze between the two one last time: Hum. (she looked at Daniel) It's no longer our decision to make. (Cameron looked even more puzzled, but Daniel accepted the argument with a shake of his head. She straightened up) Good evening, gentlemen.
Notes:
*Video: Police encounter with black army officer is a hurtful reminder that "service won't save you," veterans say. (source) (source)*
*Article: racism affects non-white soldiers too (source)*
*In my video montage, you can see episodes from 9x17, i.e. passages from a future episode (two episodes after the chronology of this paragraph), they are there to show you the fact that Daniel, Teal'c and Carter still consider Cameron to be the "new guy "*
CW: *white savior* *mention of racism* * mention of sexism*
After asking the staff for Lieutenant Fisher's position, she entered the gym. Several people working out looked her up and down, and she realized she was no longer in her regular clothes. She gave up trying to change and headed for him.
Sam: Can I talk to you alone for a moment, Lieutenant? (The others began to smile, another chuckled and she turned her head towards them) My uniform's in the laundry, maybe you'd like an assignment there all weekend, (she looked at them one by one for emphasis, without raising her tone) Captain, Major? (They straightened up and resumed their activity as if nothing had happened. Fisher followed her aside) I've just been informed of your altercation outside.
Fisher, prudent: Okay.
Sam: What happened next?
Fisher frowned: May I ask why, Colonel?
Sam raised a hand towards him: Speak freely.
Fisher stared at her for a few moments: Fine for contempt of officers. On my record.
Sam: Has General Landry ever intervened in this matter?
Fisher: No, sir. (suspiciously) Why?
Sam: Well... To report this altercation to the Pentagon and erase it from your record, for starters.
Fisher: I don't want any problems.
Sam: I'd worry about them if I were you.
Fisher looked away for a fraction of a second, even more nervous: I appreciate what you're trying to do, Madame... Believe me. But I don't think you understand what's at stake, or the fact that I could lose everything in this affair. (he insisted) So could others.
Sam moistened her lips and changed tactics: Please understand that I'm prepared to take "this case" as seriously as any mission I've ever carried out in this unit, Lieutenant. Even if it means losing my job. (He stared at her, skeptical) But to interfere myself, I need your authorization. (she winced nervously for a fraction of a second and looked away) It's your "business". (she insisted) Your decision?
Fisher hesitated for a moment, then shrugged his shoulder without much conviction: Do it if you like. I won't do it myself.
Sam nodded and turned towards the exit: Good evening, Lieutenant.
Fisher: To you too, Colonel. (he hesitated and exclaimed before she walked through the door) Colonel? (she turned back to him and he clenched his jaw in apprehension) With all due respect, you're only doing this for members of our unit?
Sam frowned in incomprehension: Your point?
Fisher clenched his teeth: In this unit I can die a hero's death and even get a medal for it. (he tried to hold back his anger) But what about when I go through the outer gate? Does my rank still matter? (she froze and opened her mouth. Would she have done the same for a civilian she didn't know? On paper, yes, of course, but in reality? She couldn't help thinking of Anang, who would be the type to point out such things to her. He regained control and stood to attention (to avoid this being taken as insubordination) My Colonel.
Sam nodded in thanks: I'm going to work on that.
Fisher remained in the same position: Start by not calling it an "altercation" anymore, Madame.
Sam swallowed and nodded again, a little more difficultly: Right.
She left the room and he joined his colleagues, who teased him, but this time it was he who silenced them.
Notes:
*Article: against the depoliticization of feminism (source)*
*Reminder of my chapter 1 during young Sam's disciplinary hearing: "Academy Director: This altercation took place with one of her teachers."Naming things for what they are is important so as not to minimize them*
*Writing game in this chapter with the different oppressions suffered by Ishta and Teal'c, and between Carter and Fisher, which helps emphasize that just because you think you're someone who's not sexist or racist doesn't mean you're not, that you have to work on it constantly, and unite to fight all these oppressions together*
*Article: You're not anti-racist if you don't take risks (source)*
*Reminder of my chapter 10:
"Anang: Have you been following the news over the last few days?" (Sam questioned her with her eyes and Anang nervously moved her hand) Something that happened in Minnesota.
Sam searched her memory for the headlines: Are you talking about the school massacre?
Anang nodded and looked at her glass: Red Lake. (she swallowed) It was a member of my tribe. (Sam froze and half opened her mouth in shock) That's why I was upset with you.
Sam understood and swallowed: I kept shooting. (Anang nodded and Sam added lower) I'm sorry.
Anang tried to control her emotions: What annoys me most is that nobody ever does anything. They debate. They debate, sell tabloids and go back to normal. (Sam lowered his gaze, uncomfortable)"*
*Video: Example of sexism in the gym (source)*
*Article: Example of sexual harassment in sport (source)*
After asking the staff for Lieutenant Fisher's position, she entered the gym. Several people working out looked her up and down, and she realized she was no longer in her regular clothes. She gave up trying to change and headed for him.
Sam: Can I talk to you alone for a moment, Lieutenant? (The others began to smile, another chuckled and she turned her head towards them) My uniform's in the laundry, maybe you'd like an assignment there all weekend, (she looked at them one by one for emphasis, without raising her tone) Captain, Major? (They straightened up and resumed their activity as if nothing had happened. Fisher followed her aside) I've just been informed of your altercation outside.
Fisher, prudent: Okay.
Sam: What happened next?
Fisher frowned: May I ask why, Colonel?
Sam raised a hand towards him: Speak freely.
Fisher stared at her for a few moments: Fine for contempt of officers. On my record.
Sam: Has General Landry ever intervened in this matter?
Fisher: No, sir. (suspiciously) Why?
Sam: Well... To report this altercation to the Pentagon and erase it from your record, for starters.
Fisher: I don't want any problems.
Sam: I'd worry about them if I were you.
Fisher looked away for a fraction of a second, even more nervous: I appreciate what you're trying to do, Madame... Believe me. But I don't think you understand what's at stake, or the fact that I could lose everything in this affair. (he insisted) So could others.
Sam moistened her lips and changed tactics: Please understand that I'm prepared to take "this case" as seriously as any mission I've ever carried out in this unit, Lieutenant. Even if it means losing my job. (He stared at her, skeptical) But to interfere myself, I need your authorization. (she winced nervously for a fraction of a second and looked away) It's your "business". (she insisted) Your decision?
Fisher hesitated for a moment, then shrugged his shoulder without much conviction: Do it if you like. I won't do it myself.
Sam nodded and turned towards the exit: Good evening, Lieutenant.
Fisher: To you too, Colonel. (he hesitated and exclaimed before she walked through the door) Colonel? (she turned back to him and he clenched his jaw in apprehension) With all due respect, you're only doing this for members of our unit?
Sam frowned in incomprehension: Your point?
Fisher clenched his teeth: In this unit I can die a hero's death and even get a medal for it. (he tried to hold back his anger) But what about when I go through the outer gate? Does my rank still matter? (she froze and opened her mouth. Would she have done the same for a civilian she didn't know? On paper, yes, of course, but in reality? She couldn't help thinking of Anang, who would be the type to point out such things to her. He regained control and stood to attention (to avoid this being taken as insubordination) My Colonel.
Sam nodded in thanks: I'm going to work on that.
Fisher remained in the same position: Start by not calling it an "altercation" anymore, Madame.
Sam swallowed and nodded again, a little more difficultly: Right.
She left the room and he joined his colleagues, who teased him, but this time it was he who silenced them.
Notes:
*Article: against the depoliticization of feminism (source)*
*Reminder of my chapter 1 during young Sam's disciplinary hearing: "Academy Director: This altercation took place with one of her teachers."Naming things for what they are is important so as not to minimize them*
*Writing game in this chapter with the different oppressions suffered by Ishta and Teal'c, and between Carter and Fisher, which helps emphasize that just because you think you're someone who's not sexist or racist doesn't mean you're not, that you have to work on it constantly, and unite to fight all these oppressions together*
*Article: You're not anti-racist if you don't take risks (source)*
*Reminder of my chapter 10:
"Anang: Have you been following the news over the last few days?" (Sam questioned her with her eyes and Anang nervously moved her hand) Something that happened in Minnesota.
Sam searched her memory for the headlines: Are you talking about the school massacre?
Anang nodded and looked at her glass: Red Lake. (she swallowed) It was a member of my tribe. (Sam froze and half opened her mouth in shock) That's why I was upset with you.
Sam understood and swallowed: I kept shooting. (Anang nodded and Sam added lower) I'm sorry.
Anang tried to control her emotions: What annoys me most is that nobody ever does anything. They debate. They debate, sell tabloids and go back to normal. (Sam lowered his gaze, uncomfortable)"*
*Video: Example of sexism in the gym (source)*
*Article: Example of sexual harassment in sport (source)*
In her pyjamas, she had just finished setting up for a pedicure/manicure evening in front of a romantic comedy when she heard her goddaughter's footsteps coming down the corridor.
Sam moved towards her: Let me throw the popcorn and- (she fell silent when she saw the girl slip on a black and red lumberjack shirt over her crop-top) Where are you going?
Cassandra looked away, uncomfortable at the bruises on her face : Some old friends from high school invited me to a party.
Sam, caught off guard: Oh. I thought we were going to spend the evening together.
Cassandra fixed her hair: Yeah, but I'm not around much. Don't worry, we'll have the rest of the weekend off. (she saw that this answer didn't satisfy her and tried to negotiate) Oh come on, it's Friday night.
Sam tried to hide her disappointment: Okay. (she watched her put on her converse) Have you finished your homework?
Cassandra: Yeah.
Sam: All of them?
Cassandra: Yeah.
Sam: Boy friends?
Cassandra raised her eyes to heaven and stood up: Both of them.
Sam tugged at her crop top, revealing her piercing: You'll be cold.
Cassie glowered at her before putting on her denim jacket -revealing even more of her belly- hating that she was taking on the role of her mother, but looked away again at the bruises on her face, reminding her too much of the dangers of her job.
Cassandra: Fuck, give me a break.
Sam stiffened, remembering Hanson or her brother making that kind of comment about her clothes, but nevertheless didn't let her behavior go.
Sam alerted her: Language. (but added quickly to show her concern) Be careful.
Cassandra nodded: I'll be home by midnight.
Sam: 11 p.m.
Cassandra tried to negotiate with a pleading smile: 11.30pm?
Sam insisted: 11 p.m.
Cassandra blew her nose: You know that just because you get up with the sun doesn't mean you have to impose your schedule on others, right? (Sam tilted her head and gave her a look, not playing along. Cassie complied and held out her hand.) Can I have your keys now? (her tutor raised her eyebrows at her audacity and Cassandra shrugged a shoulder before opening the front door) I'll know how to manage.
Sam thought again about hitchhiking and reached for her handbag: Wait!
Cassandra withdrew her triumphant smile before her tutor could see it.
Cassandra grabbed the keys: $20 for pizzas?
Sam bent her head: Don't push.
Cassandra, teases: Or for condoms?
Sam looked up: Call me if you need me.
Cassandra: Promise.
Sam awkwardly shouted a final directive: No alcohol!
Cassandra breeding in retour: Promise!
Notes:
*Video: Only 35 minutes of quality with our children (source)*
*Video: the quality of the link (source)*
*Video: No wonder you get harassed in the street if you wear a crop top (source)*
*Video: Gender stereotypes are everywhere... even in our clothes, even in our fantasies(source)*
*Good for Stargate for casting a teenage actress to play teenage Cassandra. To give you an idea of the problem, the best example is the film "Grease", where the actors and actresses are adults when they're supposed to be playing high-school students. We therefore have a false vision of what teenagers are like, a very recurrent problem in films and TV series*
*Chronologically, Cassandra is 20 years old in season 9 of Sg1. In Colorado, a minor may consume alcohol if he or she obtains permission from his or her guardians and drinks on their private property. (source)*
*Article: Teens in TV shows: how fiction influences our perceptions of reality(source)*
*Article: sex education (source)*
*Article: Teenagers in TV series compared to reality (source)*
*Article: The hypersexualization of teens in series. (source)*
*Article: Male gaze in teen series, focus on voyeuristic staging(source)*
*Article: girls' shorts are on average 6 cm shorter than boys' shorts(source)*
*Article: Requiring minors to dress "correctly" is the first step towards domestic violence (source)*
*Video: Some examples of "dress code violations" on girls (source)*
*Photo: girls' school clothes are more regulated than weapons (source)*
Sam moved towards her: Let me throw the popcorn and- (she fell silent when she saw the girl slip on a black and red lumberjack shirt over her crop-top) Where are you going?
Cassandra looked away, uncomfortable at the bruises on her face : Some old friends from high school invited me to a party.
Sam, caught off guard: Oh. I thought we were going to spend the evening together.
Cassandra fixed her hair: Yeah, but I'm not around much. Don't worry, we'll have the rest of the weekend off. (she saw that this answer didn't satisfy her and tried to negotiate) Oh come on, it's Friday night.
Sam tried to hide her disappointment: Okay. (she watched her put on her converse) Have you finished your homework?
Cassandra: Yeah.
Sam: All of them?
Cassandra: Yeah.
Sam: Boy friends?
Cassandra raised her eyes to heaven and stood up: Both of them.
Sam tugged at her crop top, revealing her piercing: You'll be cold.
Cassie glowered at her before putting on her denim jacket -revealing even more of her belly- hating that she was taking on the role of her mother, but looked away again at the bruises on her face, reminding her too much of the dangers of her job.
Cassandra: Fuck, give me a break.
Sam stiffened, remembering Hanson or her brother making that kind of comment about her clothes, but nevertheless didn't let her behavior go.
Sam alerted her: Language. (but added quickly to show her concern) Be careful.
Cassandra nodded: I'll be home by midnight.
Sam: 11 p.m.
Cassandra tried to negotiate with a pleading smile: 11.30pm?
Sam insisted: 11 p.m.
Cassandra blew her nose: You know that just because you get up with the sun doesn't mean you have to impose your schedule on others, right? (Sam tilted her head and gave her a look, not playing along. Cassie complied and held out her hand.) Can I have your keys now? (her tutor raised her eyebrows at her audacity and Cassandra shrugged a shoulder before opening the front door) I'll know how to manage.
Sam thought again about hitchhiking and reached for her handbag: Wait!
Cassandra withdrew her triumphant smile before her tutor could see it.
Cassandra grabbed the keys: $20 for pizzas?
Sam bent her head: Don't push.
Cassandra, teases: Or for condoms?
Sam looked up: Call me if you need me.
Cassandra: Promise.
Sam awkwardly shouted a final directive: No alcohol!
Cassandra breeding in retour: Promise!
Notes:
*Video: Only 35 minutes of quality with our children (source)*
*Video: the quality of the link (source)*
*Video: No wonder you get harassed in the street if you wear a crop top (source)*
*Video: Gender stereotypes are everywhere... even in our clothes, even in our fantasies(source)*
*Good for Stargate for casting a teenage actress to play teenage Cassandra. To give you an idea of the problem, the best example is the film "Grease", where the actors and actresses are adults when they're supposed to be playing high-school students. We therefore have a false vision of what teenagers are like, a very recurrent problem in films and TV series*
*Chronologically, Cassandra is 20 years old in season 9 of Sg1. In Colorado, a minor may consume alcohol if he or she obtains permission from his or her guardians and drinks on their private property. (source)*
*Article: Teens in TV shows: how fiction influences our perceptions of reality(source)*
*Article: sex education (source)*
*Article: Teenagers in TV series compared to reality (source)*
*Article: The hypersexualization of teens in series. (source)*
*Article: Male gaze in teen series, focus on voyeuristic staging(source)*
*Article: girls' shorts are on average 6 cm shorter than boys' shorts(source)*
*Article: Requiring minors to dress "correctly" is the first step towards domestic violence (source)*
*Video: Some examples of "dress code violations" on girls (source)*
*Photo: girls' school clothes are more regulated than weapons (source)*
CW: *mention of alcohol* * mention of genocide* * mention of physical injury* * mention of sexual relations*
Cassandra had respected the curfew but... had brought a surprise guest. Sam had restrained herself from getting up to kick him out, repeating to herself the instructions Janet had left her on the matter. She'd tried most of the night to convince herself that, indeed, this sort of thing was better under her roof rather than behind her back, and it reminded her of when she'd taken refuge in Jack's cottage rather than come to see her first. Suffice to say, she hadn't slept well.
In her pyjamas, with a zip-up hoodie on her back, she was waiting for the coffee pot to fill up when, out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a young man trying to cross the corridor unseen.
Sam warns him: Don't make me come after you.
After flinching, he admitted defeat, pushed his way out and entered the kitchen.
Dominic, clumsily: Hi. (He approached her cautiously, not quite reassured by the discovery of the bruises on her face. He began his plea as she remained silent) Listen. In my defense, if you're going to yell at me, there were two of us.
Sam grabbed the coffee pot, septic: That's your defense?
Dominic: I'm just saying, if it's anyone's fault, it's not mine.
Sam poured herself a cup: Now, look here. I've got nothing against you but-
Dominic: But you don't approve.
Sam put down the coffee pot: Well.... Let's just say I'm not part of the equation. (she stared at him defiantly and insisted) Cassandra yes.
Dominic stared at her for a moment: Is it more acceptable for a guy to cheat on his girlfriend than the other way around?
She seemed troubled by this argument, which reminded her of the discussion she'd had with Jack on the subject of infidelity, notably the fact that she'd been quick to judge Sara when he'd confessed how important honesty was to him on this point, or that she herself would have kissed Martouf's double if they hadn't been interrupted. Realizing that she'd lost herself for several seconds in her coffee, she pulled herself together.
Sam: So you're cheating on your girlfriend?
Dominic shook his head: That's not what I said. (he looked away and muttered, jaded by the behavior of the woman in front of him) I'm single right now.
She stared at him for a possible lie, but he seemed too terrified of the bruises on his face to lie to her.
Sam: Have you been drinking?
Dominic frowned: You didn't give her permission, did you? (this answer apparently didn't satisfy her, so he added) No. (he moved his hand limply) But there was booze at the party.
Sam appreciated his sincerity and continued: Slept in the same bed?
Dominic looked away in apprehension: You know that.
Sam raised her eyebrows: Protected?
Dominic moistened his lips to broach the subject with her: Yeah.
Sam stiffened but handed him the cup of coffee: Coffee?
Dominic caught it awkwardly: Thanks.
Sam poured herself another cup: I don't like the fact that you're taking advantage of the situation.
Dominic remained calm despite his irrepressible urge to insult her: I don't. I care about her. (she glanced at him and he insisted) In fact, I'm the one who's properly worried about her.
Sam frowned and added with a hint of provocation: What's that supposed to mean?
Dominic seemed reluctant to continue, but summoned up the courage to do so: She's lonely, you know.
Sam put down the coffee pot and replied sarcastically: I can see that.
Dominic: No, I mean... She's alone. (she questioned him with her eyes before taking a sip, wondering if he was talking about Ethan or her, and he deepened his thought) The only one of her race.
The young man had obtained accreditation from Hammond after Janet's death, in particular so that Cassandra wouldn't become as mute as when they'd found her on Hanka. He was the first civilian to be allowed to see Bregman's video.
Sam straightened up to hide her discomfort: I know. She told me.
Dominic tried: And hm... What have you been doing since she told you about it?
She said nothing. To tell the truth, she would have done anything she could if she'd known what to do.
Sam moistened her lips and also tried to: What did she say?
Dominic tilted his head to consider what he should or shouldn't tell her: Have you ever heard of Hector and Hélène? (she shook her head) Her brother and sister (she froze and remembered her painting when she arrived at the SGC. She felt her heart break and her guilt soar: she should have asked him who she'd drawn) It's heavy for her and I don't know what I can do. (he moved a hand) She hasn't told Ethan.
Sam rested her gaze on her coffee: Yeah, he's not aware of her origins.
Dominic: She also knows there's no point talking to you about it because there's no solution. But she needs us, she needs to be with us..
Sam rested her gaze on him and answered with determination: I wasn't going to leave her behind.
Dominic, nervous: I mean... (he pointed awkwardly at his own face) She's afraid of losing you too.
Sam looked away for a split second: I know.
He nodded, a little more reassured, finished his cup before depositing it in the sink and made an awkward gesture with his hand as he left. She took a deep breath and looked around, thoughtful. There was no point in reassuring her goddaughter about her job; she knew she was trained, she'd never dreamed of a better job, and it was the right thing to do. Cassandra was just worried for her vis-à-vis Janet; being more present for her would never erase that fear, and even less so if the bruises were visible on her face.
Cassandra wasn't a "complicated" teenager. She was quite the opposite, but her past was far too much for one person to handle, and her reactions to it were becoming increasingly acute. Short of making her forget, she had to find a solution to lessen the impact of these traumas. She wondered if Janet knew about her brother and sister, but concluded that she didn't: she would have told her - if not while she was alive, there would have been instructions and guidelines in her will - or the psychiatrists would have worked on it long ago. No, she was hiding her distress, and the idea terrified her. She was driven from her thoughts when her landline telephone rang.
Sam picked up: Carter.
Pete: Hey, it's Pete. I got your message.
Sam straightened up: Hey. Hi. Thanks for calling me back.
Pete: That's fine. Look, I've talked to him, but you know how stubborn he can be.
Sam grinned: Any luck?
Pete: Give me a little more time.
Sam began to feel guilty: I'm sorry I bothered you with it. I... I really shouldn't have involved you in-
Pete: You've both lost your father. You should be there for each other.
She thought about the fact that her brother hadn't even replied to her message on the anniversary of their mother's death.
Sam: Hmm. At least he's with his family.
Pète: You're one of them.
She pushed out of her mind the fact that he too could have been part of this family, much to her own brother's delight.
Sam: It's just... I know him well enough to be able to hold a grudge against you because of me.
Pete: Well, that'll be his problem if he keeps playing dumb. It's okay, I'll take care of it.
Sam, grateful: Thank you.
Pete after a few seconds of silence: Listen. I've got to go.
Sam stammered at not having been able to bounce back more quickly from the conversation: Errh yes, of course. I'm so sorry. Thanks again for your time.
Pete, before hanging up: Bye.
She looked around and bit her lips, even more worried.
Notes:
*Video: Women are not allowed to have multiple partners (source)*
*In episode 1x14 Singularity, Cassandra draws this picture. It's never said who the bodies are. There are four bodies closest to Cassandra, possibly her immediate family, i.e. her parents and siblings. (source)*
*In Greek mythology, Hector is Cassandra's brother and Helen her sister.(source) (source) *
*In Greek mythology, Cassandra possessed the power of predilection, but was cursed: her words were not to be believed. In the canonical Stargate saga, Cassandra is forced to keep her roots a secret so as not to expose the Stargate project, but also so as not to appear as a liar. I wanted to touch on this little point of mythology here (source)*
*Video: teenage pregnancy (source)*
Cassandra had respected the curfew but... had brought a surprise guest. Sam had restrained herself from getting up to kick him out, repeating to herself the instructions Janet had left her on the matter. She'd tried most of the night to convince herself that, indeed, this sort of thing was better under her roof rather than behind her back, and it reminded her of when she'd taken refuge in Jack's cottage rather than come to see her first. Suffice to say, she hadn't slept well.
In her pyjamas, with a zip-up hoodie on her back, she was waiting for the coffee pot to fill up when, out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a young man trying to cross the corridor unseen.
Sam warns him: Don't make me come after you.
After flinching, he admitted defeat, pushed his way out and entered the kitchen.
Dominic, clumsily: Hi. (He approached her cautiously, not quite reassured by the discovery of the bruises on her face. He began his plea as she remained silent) Listen. In my defense, if you're going to yell at me, there were two of us.
Sam grabbed the coffee pot, septic: That's your defense?
Dominic: I'm just saying, if it's anyone's fault, it's not mine.
Sam poured herself a cup: Now, look here. I've got nothing against you but-
Dominic: But you don't approve.
Sam put down the coffee pot: Well.... Let's just say I'm not part of the equation. (she stared at him defiantly and insisted) Cassandra yes.
Dominic stared at her for a moment: Is it more acceptable for a guy to cheat on his girlfriend than the other way around?
She seemed troubled by this argument, which reminded her of the discussion she'd had with Jack on the subject of infidelity, notably the fact that she'd been quick to judge Sara when he'd confessed how important honesty was to him on this point, or that she herself would have kissed Martouf's double if they hadn't been interrupted. Realizing that she'd lost herself for several seconds in her coffee, she pulled herself together.
Sam: So you're cheating on your girlfriend?
Dominic shook his head: That's not what I said. (he looked away and muttered, jaded by the behavior of the woman in front of him) I'm single right now.
She stared at him for a possible lie, but he seemed too terrified of the bruises on his face to lie to her.
Sam: Have you been drinking?
Dominic frowned: You didn't give her permission, did you? (this answer apparently didn't satisfy her, so he added) No. (he moved his hand limply) But there was booze at the party.
Sam appreciated his sincerity and continued: Slept in the same bed?
Dominic looked away in apprehension: You know that.
Sam raised her eyebrows: Protected?
Dominic moistened his lips to broach the subject with her: Yeah.
Sam stiffened but handed him the cup of coffee: Coffee?
Dominic caught it awkwardly: Thanks.
Sam poured herself another cup: I don't like the fact that you're taking advantage of the situation.
Dominic remained calm despite his irrepressible urge to insult her: I don't. I care about her. (she glanced at him and he insisted) In fact, I'm the one who's properly worried about her.
Sam frowned and added with a hint of provocation: What's that supposed to mean?
Dominic seemed reluctant to continue, but summoned up the courage to do so: She's lonely, you know.
Sam put down the coffee pot and replied sarcastically: I can see that.
Dominic: No, I mean... She's alone. (she questioned him with her eyes before taking a sip, wondering if he was talking about Ethan or her, and he deepened his thought) The only one of her race.
The young man had obtained accreditation from Hammond after Janet's death, in particular so that Cassandra wouldn't become as mute as when they'd found her on Hanka. He was the first civilian to be allowed to see Bregman's video.
Sam straightened up to hide her discomfort: I know. She told me.
Dominic tried: And hm... What have you been doing since she told you about it?
She said nothing. To tell the truth, she would have done anything she could if she'd known what to do.
Sam moistened her lips and also tried to: What did she say?
Dominic tilted his head to consider what he should or shouldn't tell her: Have you ever heard of Hector and Hélène? (she shook her head) Her brother and sister (she froze and remembered her painting when she arrived at the SGC. She felt her heart break and her guilt soar: she should have asked him who she'd drawn) It's heavy for her and I don't know what I can do. (he moved a hand) She hasn't told Ethan.
Sam rested her gaze on her coffee: Yeah, he's not aware of her origins.
Dominic: She also knows there's no point talking to you about it because there's no solution. But she needs us, she needs to be with us..
Sam rested her gaze on him and answered with determination: I wasn't going to leave her behind.
Dominic, nervous: I mean... (he pointed awkwardly at his own face) She's afraid of losing you too.
Sam looked away for a split second: I know.
He nodded, a little more reassured, finished his cup before depositing it in the sink and made an awkward gesture with his hand as he left. She took a deep breath and looked around, thoughtful. There was no point in reassuring her goddaughter about her job; she knew she was trained, she'd never dreamed of a better job, and it was the right thing to do. Cassandra was just worried for her vis-à-vis Janet; being more present for her would never erase that fear, and even less so if the bruises were visible on her face.
Cassandra wasn't a "complicated" teenager. She was quite the opposite, but her past was far too much for one person to handle, and her reactions to it were becoming increasingly acute. Short of making her forget, she had to find a solution to lessen the impact of these traumas. She wondered if Janet knew about her brother and sister, but concluded that she didn't: she would have told her - if not while she was alive, there would have been instructions and guidelines in her will - or the psychiatrists would have worked on it long ago. No, she was hiding her distress, and the idea terrified her. She was driven from her thoughts when her landline telephone rang.
Sam picked up: Carter.
Pete: Hey, it's Pete. I got your message.
Sam straightened up: Hey. Hi. Thanks for calling me back.
Pete: That's fine. Look, I've talked to him, but you know how stubborn he can be.
Sam grinned: Any luck?
Pete: Give me a little more time.
Sam began to feel guilty: I'm sorry I bothered you with it. I... I really shouldn't have involved you in-
Pete: You've both lost your father. You should be there for each other.
She thought about the fact that her brother hadn't even replied to her message on the anniversary of their mother's death.
Sam: Hmm. At least he's with his family.
Pète: You're one of them.
She pushed out of her mind the fact that he too could have been part of this family, much to her own brother's delight.
Sam: It's just... I know him well enough to be able to hold a grudge against you because of me.
Pete: Well, that'll be his problem if he keeps playing dumb. It's okay, I'll take care of it.
Sam, grateful: Thank you.
Pete after a few seconds of silence: Listen. I've got to go.
Sam stammered at not having been able to bounce back more quickly from the conversation: Errh yes, of course. I'm so sorry. Thanks again for your time.
Pete, before hanging up: Bye.
She looked around and bit her lips, even more worried.
Notes:
*Video: Women are not allowed to have multiple partners (source)*
*In episode 1x14 Singularity, Cassandra draws this picture. It's never said who the bodies are. There are four bodies closest to Cassandra, possibly her immediate family, i.e. her parents and siblings. (source)*
*In Greek mythology, Hector is Cassandra's brother and Helen her sister.(source) (source) *
*In Greek mythology, Cassandra possessed the power of predilection, but was cursed: her words were not to be believed. In the canonical Stargate saga, Cassandra is forced to keep her roots a secret so as not to expose the Stargate project, but also so as not to appear as a liar. I wanted to touch on this little point of mythology here (source)*
*Video: teenage pregnancy (source)*
After thinking about how to deal with this problem, she walked down the stairs past the new, practically finished DIY workshop, knocked gently on the bedroom door and opened it ajar.
Cassandra, still a little sleepy: Hmm. (Sam sat down beside her and stroked her hair) Are you going to yell at me?
Sam caressed her goddaughter's temple: I'd rather offer you pancakes.
Cassandra: Later. (she pulls on her comforter to snuggle up more) I still want to sleep for a little while.
Sam kissed her hair: All right.
She was about to stand up, but the girl grabbed her arm. Sam felt a twinge of guilt at the memory and quickly pulled herself together.
Sam murmured: All right, then. I'll stay a little while.
Cassandra: Will you punish me?
Sam: Well... you're still a teenager. Teenagers always do things we don't expect, don't they?
Cassandra began to fall asleep again: I'm not so much a teenager anymore, you know.
Sam: Then I've got some chores for you afterwards.
Cassandra dodged a smile before slipping back into the arms of Morpheus. All right.
Sam glanced around. Apart from her clothes for the weekend and her homework lying around, Cassandra had left her things on campus. After all, it was her home most of the time, but Sam couldn't help thinking about Jack's company apartment. She thought again of Anang judging the interior of her house, even though she adored his objects: the relics of her childhood. She rested her gaze on her goddaughter and a thought that could have come from Daniel's mouth struck her: Objects have their stories.
Notes:
*Remember that Carter and Cassandra have a writing line on the phrase "a little while”*
Cassandra, still a little sleepy: Hmm. (Sam sat down beside her and stroked her hair) Are you going to yell at me?
Sam caressed her goddaughter's temple: I'd rather offer you pancakes.
Cassandra: Later. (she pulls on her comforter to snuggle up more) I still want to sleep for a little while.
Sam kissed her hair: All right.
She was about to stand up, but the girl grabbed her arm. Sam felt a twinge of guilt at the memory and quickly pulled herself together.
Sam murmured: All right, then. I'll stay a little while.
Cassandra: Will you punish me?
Sam: Well... you're still a teenager. Teenagers always do things we don't expect, don't they?
Cassandra began to fall asleep again: I'm not so much a teenager anymore, you know.
Sam: Then I've got some chores for you afterwards.
Cassandra dodged a smile before slipping back into the arms of Morpheus. All right.
Sam glanced around. Apart from her clothes for the weekend and her homework lying around, Cassandra had left her things on campus. After all, it was her home most of the time, but Sam couldn't help thinking about Jack's company apartment. She thought again of Anang judging the interior of her house, even though she adored his objects: the relics of her childhood. She rested her gaze on her goddaughter and a thought that could have come from Daniel's mouth struck her: Objects have their stories.
Notes:
*Remember that Carter and Cassandra have a writing line on the phrase "a little while”*
CW: *genocide* * mention of post-traumatic amnesia*
It was a bright afternoon for a game of chess on the garden table. The Bangles' vinyl played "If She Knew What She Wants" through the open bay window.
Cassandra: What are you thinking? (Sam looked up from the chessboard and questioned her with her eyes) You seem pensive.
Sam recovered and moved a pawn on the chessboard: Hmm. I was thinking of installing two swings on the oak tree, would you help me?
Cassandra: Will it be part of my chores?
Sam dodged a smile: No. It's just for us to have fun together.
Cassandra, perplexed: Aren't we a bit big for swings?
Sam made a disappointed pout: Is there an age limit?
Cassandra smiles at her expression: Come on, if you want.
Sam: That's if I have children.
Cassandra moved a pawn: That makes more sense. But I don't know how to use anything. (she tilted her head, thinking) Maybe a hammer?
Sam frowned: You've never used a saw or a drill?
Cassandra shook her head: Mom wanted to teach me the drill once. Have you ever tried to drill a hole in a wall when someone gives you a detailed lecture on trepanning? (Sam smiled and nodded as he imagined the situation) Followed, of course, by the whole History of Anatomical Study with Cemetery Body Snatchers. (Sam gave him a mixed look of amusement, compassion and disgust) So no... Not my thing.
Sam: And the mechanics?
Cassandra, weary: I'd have to get a car first.
Sam: No, I mean... We could buy you a used one with spare parts. (Cassie froze) We could tinker together.
Cassandra exclaimed: Really?! (Sam shrugged a shoulder with a smile, delighted to see that her proposal delighted him so much) That would be great!
Sam: Let's do that. (She rested her gaze on the chessboard to play a piece-which disconcerted her goddaughter-before moistening her lips with nervousness and attempting subtlety) You're still painting?
Cassandra joked: Another wall to paint?
Sam bent her head: You can paint your room or my new craft room if you like, but I meant on canvas.
Cassandra rested her gaze on the chessboard, rather surprised by the serious tone used: Not for years.
Sam: And don't you miss it? (her goddaughter shrugged a shoulder, not seeming very interested in the subject, so Sam tried again) Personally I tinker because it gives me the feeling of being able to control the things that escape me. Maybe painting can help.
Cassandra gently raised her head towards her, lost: To what?
Sam confessed: To move on after what you've lost. (She moved her head awkwardly) Not just Janet. (Cassie seemed troubled and rested her gaze on the chessboard. Sam wondered if she resented Dominic for spilling the beans but decided to continue, even more gently) Remember them?
Cassandra shook her head and looked at her: Vaguely. (Sam nodded sympathetically. There was silence for several seconds before Cassie added) Would you be disappointed if I stopped studying?
Sam froze in surprise: Uh? (Cassandra looked away, uncomfortable) I thought you loved what you were studying?
Cassandra fiddled with a pawn between her fingers: It's just... I've never been quite sure what I want to do.
Sam: Any other stying path in mind?
Cassandra looked at her pawn and replied without interest: Not really.
Sam remained reasonable and proposed: You can finish your year and think about it for next year.
Cassandra moistened her lips and tensed up: Mom always knew she wanted to be a doctor. And you wanted to be an astronaut.
Sam: Well... that's not exactly what I do.
Cassandra sank into her seat: What if I never know what I want to do?
Sam: You'll always be stuck with me for the rest of your life, even on Friday nights.
Cassandra smiles sarcastically: Now that's motivation.
Sam dodged a smile, then resumed: So I guess you haven't finished your assignment.
Cassandra: I can't write it. (Sam questioned her with his eyes and Cassie breathed wearily before stating the subject of the assignment) "What's the biggest challenge you've faced in your life and how did you overcome it?"
Sam rested her gaze on the chessboard, guessing her subtext. She couldn't write on it, even if she had managed to "meet the challenge". Anang's words about fighting not to disappear and the pain of incomprehension it could be to be adopted came back to her mind.
Sam: Listen. I often forget that you were adopted. I know that doesn't mean you regret it or reject everything you've experienced here. (Cassie nodded, touched) No, I won't be disappointed if you stop studying. (Cassie thanked her with a slight smile, reassured) I'll never be disappointed in you, whatever your choices. I've always done what other people wanted me to do to make them happy, so that I don't have to decide for myself what makes me happy. In the end, only you know what's best for you. (she insists) I'm only here to guide you. You'll find your way, just give it time.
Cassandra that she was also talking about last night: It's just... You know... I don't have many people, especially my own age, that I can talk to about who I really am, where I come from... And... And with my powers back I...
Sam: You need to talk about it. (Cassie nodded and looked down. Sam moistened her lips with nervousness) It's good that you have people you can count on. (Cassie nodded in agreement but remained pensive, staring at the chessboard. Sam grimaced) Look. I was out of line with you last night. I'm really sorry about that.
Cassandra raised her head towards her: You're my guardian, not my mother.
Sam nodded her head: I'll keep that in mind.
They played a few tricks in silence.
Cassandra: I know I'm different from you, but it's not like I can complain. (Sam looked up at her) I'm not rejected by my family or anyone.
Sam thought back to Teal'c and Anang immediately: What you feel is not to be overlooked. (Cassie stared at her and lowered her gaze. Sam attempted a joke under the guise of the truth) Just try not to get pregnant while you're studying.
Cassandra chuckled: Don't worry, I'm not going to stop my studies to get pregnant.
Sam dodged a smile, then resumed: And even if you don't, I'll be there to support you. (Cassie smiled and Sam tilted her head) Maybe wait a little longer to be sure of yourself.
Cassandra laughed: And that you're ready, right?
Sam nodded several times: Exactly. (she resumed seriously) What I mean is that you need to understand the difference between becoming a mother and having a child, so that you don't regret it afterwards. (Cassandra questioned her with her eyes) You don't regret having a child, but being a mother can be a burden. The child comes before you and... It's better if you get better before you decide to be a mother.
Cassandra looked at the chessboard to ponder her words. She understood that she was also speaking for herself and why she hadn't adopted it herself at the time, and this feeling soothed her for a while.
Cassandra grinned: If I don't have children, my race will die out with me.
Sam froze at the thought: It's not your responsibility.
Cassandra frowned and looked up at her: Whose then?
Sam didn't know what to say: I mean...
Cassandra: I know what you meant. But even so, what could I possibly pass on to them? I can hardly remember anything. My brain is full of holes. (Sam deduced that this genocide had definitely caused significant post-traumatic amnesia, erasing even happy memories. Cassandra moved one last piece) Checkmate.
Sam looked at the chessboard, dumbfounded: What? Did you use your powers when I wasn't looking?
Cassandra, unimpressed: As if I needed that to kick your ass at chess. (Sam gave her a mock blasé look.) “Langage”, I know. (Cassie moved her hand limply) You're the one who's not in the game.
Sam shook her head and played with a coin in her hand: I'm sorry. I... I... (she frowned) I think I have an idea.
Notes:
*Stargate was very progressive at the time, showing a woman using DIY tools (including a blowtorch) without this serving to sexualize her. A very good point for this saga!*
*Young people who have or want children should be supported rather than made to feel guilty* *The song "If She Knew What She Wants" by the Bangles is important in this paragraph. (source)*
*Video: the difference between regretting being a mother and regretting having a child (source)*
It was a bright afternoon for a game of chess on the garden table. The Bangles' vinyl played "If She Knew What She Wants" through the open bay window.
Cassandra: What are you thinking? (Sam looked up from the chessboard and questioned her with her eyes) You seem pensive.
Sam recovered and moved a pawn on the chessboard: Hmm. I was thinking of installing two swings on the oak tree, would you help me?
Cassandra: Will it be part of my chores?
Sam dodged a smile: No. It's just for us to have fun together.
Cassandra, perplexed: Aren't we a bit big for swings?
Sam made a disappointed pout: Is there an age limit?
Cassandra smiles at her expression: Come on, if you want.
Sam: That's if I have children.
Cassandra moved a pawn: That makes more sense. But I don't know how to use anything. (she tilted her head, thinking) Maybe a hammer?
Sam frowned: You've never used a saw or a drill?
Cassandra shook her head: Mom wanted to teach me the drill once. Have you ever tried to drill a hole in a wall when someone gives you a detailed lecture on trepanning? (Sam smiled and nodded as he imagined the situation) Followed, of course, by the whole History of Anatomical Study with Cemetery Body Snatchers. (Sam gave him a mixed look of amusement, compassion and disgust) So no... Not my thing.
Sam: And the mechanics?
Cassandra, weary: I'd have to get a car first.
Sam: No, I mean... We could buy you a used one with spare parts. (Cassie froze) We could tinker together.
Cassandra exclaimed: Really?! (Sam shrugged a shoulder with a smile, delighted to see that her proposal delighted him so much) That would be great!
Sam: Let's do that. (She rested her gaze on the chessboard to play a piece-which disconcerted her goddaughter-before moistening her lips with nervousness and attempting subtlety) You're still painting?
Cassandra joked: Another wall to paint?
Sam bent her head: You can paint your room or my new craft room if you like, but I meant on canvas.
Cassandra rested her gaze on the chessboard, rather surprised by the serious tone used: Not for years.
Sam: And don't you miss it? (her goddaughter shrugged a shoulder, not seeming very interested in the subject, so Sam tried again) Personally I tinker because it gives me the feeling of being able to control the things that escape me. Maybe painting can help.
Cassandra gently raised her head towards her, lost: To what?
Sam confessed: To move on after what you've lost. (She moved her head awkwardly) Not just Janet. (Cassie seemed troubled and rested her gaze on the chessboard. Sam wondered if she resented Dominic for spilling the beans but decided to continue, even more gently) Remember them?
Cassandra shook her head and looked at her: Vaguely. (Sam nodded sympathetically. There was silence for several seconds before Cassie added) Would you be disappointed if I stopped studying?
Sam froze in surprise: Uh? (Cassandra looked away, uncomfortable) I thought you loved what you were studying?
Cassandra fiddled with a pawn between her fingers: It's just... I've never been quite sure what I want to do.
Sam: Any other stying path in mind?
Cassandra looked at her pawn and replied without interest: Not really.
Sam remained reasonable and proposed: You can finish your year and think about it for next year.
Cassandra moistened her lips and tensed up: Mom always knew she wanted to be a doctor. And you wanted to be an astronaut.
Sam: Well... that's not exactly what I do.
Cassandra sank into her seat: What if I never know what I want to do?
Sam: You'll always be stuck with me for the rest of your life, even on Friday nights.
Cassandra smiles sarcastically: Now that's motivation.
Sam dodged a smile, then resumed: So I guess you haven't finished your assignment.
Cassandra: I can't write it. (Sam questioned her with his eyes and Cassie breathed wearily before stating the subject of the assignment) "What's the biggest challenge you've faced in your life and how did you overcome it?"
Sam rested her gaze on the chessboard, guessing her subtext. She couldn't write on it, even if she had managed to "meet the challenge". Anang's words about fighting not to disappear and the pain of incomprehension it could be to be adopted came back to her mind.
Sam: Listen. I often forget that you were adopted. I know that doesn't mean you regret it or reject everything you've experienced here. (Cassie nodded, touched) No, I won't be disappointed if you stop studying. (Cassie thanked her with a slight smile, reassured) I'll never be disappointed in you, whatever your choices. I've always done what other people wanted me to do to make them happy, so that I don't have to decide for myself what makes me happy. In the end, only you know what's best for you. (she insists) I'm only here to guide you. You'll find your way, just give it time.
Cassandra that she was also talking about last night: It's just... You know... I don't have many people, especially my own age, that I can talk to about who I really am, where I come from... And... And with my powers back I...
Sam: You need to talk about it. (Cassie nodded and looked down. Sam moistened her lips with nervousness) It's good that you have people you can count on. (Cassie nodded in agreement but remained pensive, staring at the chessboard. Sam grimaced) Look. I was out of line with you last night. I'm really sorry about that.
Cassandra raised her head towards her: You're my guardian, not my mother.
Sam nodded her head: I'll keep that in mind.
They played a few tricks in silence.
Cassandra: I know I'm different from you, but it's not like I can complain. (Sam looked up at her) I'm not rejected by my family or anyone.
Sam thought back to Teal'c and Anang immediately: What you feel is not to be overlooked. (Cassie stared at her and lowered her gaze. Sam attempted a joke under the guise of the truth) Just try not to get pregnant while you're studying.
Cassandra chuckled: Don't worry, I'm not going to stop my studies to get pregnant.
Sam dodged a smile, then resumed: And even if you don't, I'll be there to support you. (Cassie smiled and Sam tilted her head) Maybe wait a little longer to be sure of yourself.
Cassandra laughed: And that you're ready, right?
Sam nodded several times: Exactly. (she resumed seriously) What I mean is that you need to understand the difference between becoming a mother and having a child, so that you don't regret it afterwards. (Cassandra questioned her with her eyes) You don't regret having a child, but being a mother can be a burden. The child comes before you and... It's better if you get better before you decide to be a mother.
Cassandra looked at the chessboard to ponder her words. She understood that she was also speaking for herself and why she hadn't adopted it herself at the time, and this feeling soothed her for a while.
Cassandra grinned: If I don't have children, my race will die out with me.
Sam froze at the thought: It's not your responsibility.
Cassandra frowned and looked up at her: Whose then?
Sam didn't know what to say: I mean...
Cassandra: I know what you meant. But even so, what could I possibly pass on to them? I can hardly remember anything. My brain is full of holes. (Sam deduced that this genocide had definitely caused significant post-traumatic amnesia, erasing even happy memories. Cassandra moved one last piece) Checkmate.
Sam looked at the chessboard, dumbfounded: What? Did you use your powers when I wasn't looking?
Cassandra, unimpressed: As if I needed that to kick your ass at chess. (Sam gave her a mock blasé look.) “Langage”, I know. (Cassie moved her hand limply) You're the one who's not in the game.
Sam shook her head and played with a coin in her hand: I'm sorry. I... I... (she frowned) I think I have an idea.
Notes:
*Stargate was very progressive at the time, showing a woman using DIY tools (including a blowtorch) without this serving to sexualize her. A very good point for this saga!*
*Young people who have or want children should be supported rather than made to feel guilty* *The song "If She Knew What She Wants" by the Bangles is important in this paragraph. (source)*
*Video: the difference between regretting being a mother and regretting having a child (source)*
Frantically typing away on her PC for several hours at a stretch, she had waited until the end of the weekend to finally write down all the data that had emerged in her mind, prioritizing the time spent with her goddaughter.
She finally stopped, reread all her work and sent a copy to Mckay. She rested her elbow on the table and bit her lips in nervousness. The theft of the Stargates had given rise to the idea of a sort of giant portal linked to several Gates, and now she needed Mckay's help with the calculations and elaboration of the Pegasus side. If he found the proposal interesting - and she was sure he would - all that remained was to hope that the costs involved would be approved. She grimaced at the budget estimate they would have to present to the budget committee.
Daniel entrer: Hey. You wanted to talk to me?
Sam: Hey. Yes, thanks for coming. (he smiles and approaches her) I couldn't find any of Hanka's items in the database.
Daniel surprised: Cassandra's planet? (she nodded) Only samples and research results on the black hole, I think. Why do you ask?
Sam: I think it would help Cassie to find her roots. I'm not sure what would interest her or what's still in state but...
Daniel: It's a good idea. Yeah, we can arrange that with the archaeological team. I'll see if there are any volunteers.
Sam, grateful: That would be great. I'll ask General Landry for authorization.
Daniel left : Keep me posted.
She finally stopped, reread all her work and sent a copy to Mckay. She rested her elbow on the table and bit her lips in nervousness. The theft of the Stargates had given rise to the idea of a sort of giant portal linked to several Gates, and now she needed Mckay's help with the calculations and elaboration of the Pegasus side. If he found the proposal interesting - and she was sure he would - all that remained was to hope that the costs involved would be approved. She grimaced at the budget estimate they would have to present to the budget committee.
Daniel entrer: Hey. You wanted to talk to me?
Sam: Hey. Yes, thanks for coming. (he smiles and approaches her) I couldn't find any of Hanka's items in the database.
Daniel surprised: Cassandra's planet? (she nodded) Only samples and research results on the black hole, I think. Why do you ask?
Sam: I think it would help Cassie to find her roots. I'm not sure what would interest her or what's still in state but...
Daniel: It's a good idea. Yeah, we can arrange that with the archaeological team. I'll see if there are any volunteers.
Sam, grateful: That would be great. I'll ask General Landry for authorization.
Daniel left : Keep me posted.
CW: *alcohol mentioned*
Tired and barely home, he cracked open a beer and switched on his prepaid phone.
(SMS) Sam: I'm here if you need me.
He dodged a smile as she remembered the date.
(SMS) Jack: Thanks.
He took a sip and looked around the living room, reflecting on his day. After work, he'd been teleported to the Colorado Springs cemetery for one of his two annual rendezvous with his ex-wife. In contrast to the day's particularly stormy meetings with the IOA, their exchanges had been nothing but banalities, and as always, he blamed himself for not being able to talk to her. Even after all these years, he still couldn't forgive himself.
Notes:
*Anniversary of Charlie's death*
*Reminder of my chapter 4:
(SMS) Jack: I'm here if you need me.”*
Tired and barely home, he cracked open a beer and switched on his prepaid phone.
(SMS) Sam: I'm here if you need me.
He dodged a smile as she remembered the date.
(SMS) Jack: Thanks.
He took a sip and looked around the living room, reflecting on his day. After work, he'd been teleported to the Colorado Springs cemetery for one of his two annual rendezvous with his ex-wife. In contrast to the day's particularly stormy meetings with the IOA, their exchanges had been nothing but banalities, and as always, he blamed himself for not being able to talk to her. Even after all these years, he still couldn't forgive himself.
Notes:
*Anniversary of Charlie's death*
*Reminder of my chapter 4:
(SMS) Jack: I'm here if you need me.”*
Cassandra opened her bedroom door with difficulty, an imposing parcel in her arms, the sender announcing "NORAD". Inside, she discovered a few decorative objects, photos taken by the SGC of various architectures, but what interested her most were the eight books. She was astonished to be able to read the titles written in her mother tongue without any difficulty, despite the years that had passed. She leafed through them with particular attention, a vestige of a past life so precious to her heart. She then plunged her hand into the parcel and found several samples of rock and earth in various colors. Their "contamination" labels could be seen beneath the news that there was no longer any danger. These analyses made her uneasy and she quickly looked for the last item in the parcel: to her astonishment, it was a blank notebook with a handwritten note from Daniel:
"Hanka will always be alive if you continue to live your History."
A flash of forgotten memory came back to her mind: her little hand making its way through the tall grass and catching the death tag on her big brother's finger, right next to the bodies of both her parents. She broke down crying.
TW: *firearm*
As she devoured Stephen Hawking's latest book, "A Beautiful History of Time", a popular science book aimed at the general public, she was enjoying her weekend at her goddaughter’s home with Jack on the banks of the Colorado River. Normally, she wouldn't have wasted time with this simplistic reading, but she didn't dare admit it to herself: she was a big fan of the man's work. Jack himself had had a hard time getting her to take her eyes off the chapter and come and eat the hot dogs he'd prepared, but the thing that brought her out of her reading this time was the terrible crash of a bullet echoing through the valley. She abandoned the book and hurried towards them.
Sam exclaimed: What the hell?! (Not far from the rental car, she found Jack positioned behind her goddaughter, his arm bandaged after she had removed his transmitter, carrying the girl's hand containing a Beretta M9. A quick glance showed her the empty soda can a few yards away. She frowned and looked at him) What are you doing?
Cassandra: Don't worry, Sam. Jack's just teaching me how to defend myself.
He reassembled the weapon so that it was back in line.
Jack noticed that she had tensed up again: Relax your shoulders.
Sam had the unpleasant sensation of reliving an echo when he saw Daniel in his first shooting lessons.
Sam interrogated Cassie, perplexed: Did you volunteer?
The interested party juggled her gaze between her and the man, unsure of what to say lest they argue.
Jack, after her non-answer: She agreed.
Sam gave him a reproachful look as he spoke for her, sarcastically: Agreed or voluntary?
Cassandra, hesitant: It's okay, Sam.
Sam firmly: You're within your rights to say no.
Cassandra smiles nervously: I know. It's okay.
Sam turned her attention back to him to explain.
Jack tried to calm the situation: Hey, easy there, Gilmore Girl. She's got to learn.
Sam, coldly: Jack.
Jack frowned at the use of his first name: She agreed.
Cassandra straightened up and tried to manage her stress: Yes. And I still am.
He raised his eyebrows and tilted his head towards Sam to insist. The latter gritted her teeth, took a step back and invited him to resume the exercise.
Jack repositioned the young woman's shoulders for the umpteenth time, much too high: Aim for the target. (he noticed she was trembling, a symptom of her stress) Breathe.
Cassandra bagged: I-I-I can't do it.
Jack encouraged her: Yes, you can. You can do it.
Cassandra closed her eyes and tensed further: I can't do-
This time it wasn't the bang that surprised Sam, but the explosion of the rental car's headlights a few yards away.
Sam stood between the target and the two of them: THAT’S ENOUGH!
Jack retrieved the gun before an accident and replaced the safety catch: This is the kind of situation that can happen, as you know.
They stared at each other for a few seconds, flashes of Fifth forcing RepliCarter to shoot their loved ones and Hanson on himself rising up inside her.
Sam huffed: You're quite right.
She bowed her head in resignation and held out a hand to him to give her the gun. He gave it to her, she removed the safety and aimed at the girl's shoulder, staring back at the man. Jack and Cassandra froze instantly.
Jack: What’s-
His words stopped when he recognised the look she was giving him. Would he ever stop reading the hatred and disappointment in her eyes, he wondered?
Sam without looking away: Close your eyes, Cassie. I'm counting to 3.
Jack pulls himself together and cautiously warns her: Carter.
She checked to see if Cassie had been listening, but saw that she was at a loss as to what to do.
Sam with a soft voice: Are you confident? (Cassandra nodded, not without concern, and Sam added) Close your eyes. (The young woman obeyed with understanding, and Sam again challenged him with her eyes, repeating his words) This is the kind of situation that can happen, as you know. (she turned her head towards Cassie and began to count slowly) 1... 2....
Jack raised his hands, reaching for the weapon: Don’t-
The terrible crash echoed across the valley for a second time. Cassandra opened her eyes to find the bullet flying just 10 cm from her shoulder. Suspended for a few more seconds, the bullet dropped and the silence was broken by the light tinkling of the arid ground. He realised that she would never have put her goddaughter in this kind of situation unless she had already prepared her for it, and this was confirmed by the fact that she looked away when he looked at her. The problem was that her lessons had been defensive rather than offensive. Putting a firearm into the hands of a civilian, even one with extraordinary abilities, was perhaps not the idea of the century.
Sam handed the gun safety back to him: Don't ever force her to do anything again. (She insisted to Cassie) You already know how to defend yourself.
She retrieved her stone from her pocket and held it out to her goddaughter. She grabbed it with an apologetic glance at Jack, and Sam activated the teleport, leaving him alone.
Notes:
*In the first paragraph of my fanfic, Jacob says to his 3-year-old daughter: "Jacob: Samantha Carter. (he took her in his arms) You must obey your father when he calls you. (sternly) You don't run away and talk to strangers. It's dangerous.”*”. This sentence wasn't insignificant either; it's the kind of sentence you hear, especially as a little girl. We are taught to protect ourselves from aggressors, but little boys are not taught not to become aggressors. It's not up to victims to educate themselves. Children's education needs to be reviewed on this point, which is part of rape culture, particularly victim blaming.(source) (source)*
*Information about Colorado River (source)*
*Article: Living along the Colorado, the dying river (source)*
*Information on "A beautiful history of time" (source)*
As she devoured Stephen Hawking's latest book, "A Beautiful History of Time", a popular science book aimed at the general public, she was enjoying her weekend at her goddaughter’s home with Jack on the banks of the Colorado River. Normally, she wouldn't have wasted time with this simplistic reading, but she didn't dare admit it to herself: she was a big fan of the man's work. Jack himself had had a hard time getting her to take her eyes off the chapter and come and eat the hot dogs he'd prepared, but the thing that brought her out of her reading this time was the terrible crash of a bullet echoing through the valley. She abandoned the book and hurried towards them.
Sam exclaimed: What the hell?! (Not far from the rental car, she found Jack positioned behind her goddaughter, his arm bandaged after she had removed his transmitter, carrying the girl's hand containing a Beretta M9. A quick glance showed her the empty soda can a few yards away. She frowned and looked at him) What are you doing?
Cassandra: Don't worry, Sam. Jack's just teaching me how to defend myself.
He reassembled the weapon so that it was back in line.
Jack noticed that she had tensed up again: Relax your shoulders.
Sam had the unpleasant sensation of reliving an echo when he saw Daniel in his first shooting lessons.
Sam interrogated Cassie, perplexed: Did you volunteer?
The interested party juggled her gaze between her and the man, unsure of what to say lest they argue.
Jack, after her non-answer: She agreed.
Sam gave him a reproachful look as he spoke for her, sarcastically: Agreed or voluntary?
Cassandra, hesitant: It's okay, Sam.
Sam firmly: You're within your rights to say no.
Cassandra smiles nervously: I know. It's okay.
Sam turned her attention back to him to explain.
Jack tried to calm the situation: Hey, easy there, Gilmore Girl. She's got to learn.
Sam, coldly: Jack.
Jack frowned at the use of his first name: She agreed.
Cassandra straightened up and tried to manage her stress: Yes. And I still am.
He raised his eyebrows and tilted his head towards Sam to insist. The latter gritted her teeth, took a step back and invited him to resume the exercise.
Jack repositioned the young woman's shoulders for the umpteenth time, much too high: Aim for the target. (he noticed she was trembling, a symptom of her stress) Breathe.
Cassandra bagged: I-I-I can't do it.
Jack encouraged her: Yes, you can. You can do it.
Cassandra closed her eyes and tensed further: I can't do-
This time it wasn't the bang that surprised Sam, but the explosion of the rental car's headlights a few yards away.
Sam stood between the target and the two of them: THAT’S ENOUGH!
Jack retrieved the gun before an accident and replaced the safety catch: This is the kind of situation that can happen, as you know.
They stared at each other for a few seconds, flashes of Fifth forcing RepliCarter to shoot their loved ones and Hanson on himself rising up inside her.
Sam huffed: You're quite right.
She bowed her head in resignation and held out a hand to him to give her the gun. He gave it to her, she removed the safety and aimed at the girl's shoulder, staring back at the man. Jack and Cassandra froze instantly.
Jack: What’s-
His words stopped when he recognised the look she was giving him. Would he ever stop reading the hatred and disappointment in her eyes, he wondered?
Sam without looking away: Close your eyes, Cassie. I'm counting to 3.
Jack pulls himself together and cautiously warns her: Carter.
She checked to see if Cassie had been listening, but saw that she was at a loss as to what to do.
Sam with a soft voice: Are you confident? (Cassandra nodded, not without concern, and Sam added) Close your eyes. (The young woman obeyed with understanding, and Sam again challenged him with her eyes, repeating his words) This is the kind of situation that can happen, as you know. (she turned her head towards Cassie and began to count slowly) 1... 2....
Jack raised his hands, reaching for the weapon: Don’t-
The terrible crash echoed across the valley for a second time. Cassandra opened her eyes to find the bullet flying just 10 cm from her shoulder. Suspended for a few more seconds, the bullet dropped and the silence was broken by the light tinkling of the arid ground. He realised that she would never have put her goddaughter in this kind of situation unless she had already prepared her for it, and this was confirmed by the fact that she looked away when he looked at her. The problem was that her lessons had been defensive rather than offensive. Putting a firearm into the hands of a civilian, even one with extraordinary abilities, was perhaps not the idea of the century.
Sam handed the gun safety back to him: Don't ever force her to do anything again. (She insisted to Cassie) You already know how to defend yourself.
She retrieved her stone from her pocket and held it out to her goddaughter. She grabbed it with an apologetic glance at Jack, and Sam activated the teleport, leaving him alone.
Notes:
*In the first paragraph of my fanfic, Jacob says to his 3-year-old daughter: "Jacob: Samantha Carter. (he took her in his arms) You must obey your father when he calls you. (sternly) You don't run away and talk to strangers. It's dangerous.”*”. This sentence wasn't insignificant either; it's the kind of sentence you hear, especially as a little girl. We are taught to protect ourselves from aggressors, but little boys are not taught not to become aggressors. It's not up to victims to educate themselves. Children's education needs to be reviewed on this point, which is part of rape culture, particularly victim blaming.(source) (source)*
*Information about Colorado River (source)*
*Article: Living along the Colorado, the dying river (source)*
*Information on "A beautiful history of time" (source)*
CW: *geriatric pregnancy* *obstetric violence* *gender-based violence mentioned*
After getting the rental car's headlights fixed, he knocked on the motel room door and she opened it for him.
Jack: Hey.
Sam invited him in: Hey.
Jack placed a bag on the table: Dinner. Just as we planned.
Sam nodded and looked away: Thanks.
Jack hesitated, but his concern got the better of him: Cass’?
Sam hid her bitterness: She's doing well.
Jack nodded and changed the subject, as she didn't seem to want to go back over it: Oh. I've had an e-mail from the IOA. (she questioned him with her eyes) It's approved.
Sam: What are you talking about?
Jack: Your idea for a bridge linking the Milky Way to Pegasus? The Chairman of the Appropriations Committee has approved the idea.
Sam raised her eyebrows: Wow. Only a few months to obtain subsidies for a project of this scale. That's a change.
Jack tried to re-establish a good relationship: Well... Congratulations. (she moistened her lips, he put his hands in his pockets and looked apprehensive) Can we talk about what happened earlier?
Sam: Never force her to become like you and me. (she insisted) Remember Daniel. (he swallowed and nodded, finally understanding her reaction. She continued, her tone as calm as ever) Look. Cassie is part of my life and you're part of mine. It seems obvious that she wants you to be part of hers. (he wanted to reply but she continued before being cut off) I agree with that, hence my invitation today, but only under certain conditions.
Jack: I'm not his guardian.
Sam nodded firmly: You are not his guardian. (he nodded) Now she's lucky enough to have power, and we've both been working on this for a year now.
Jack grinned: I know
Sam: I know the risks. She's a young woman who lives in Nevada and she's been through more than most people. You must consult me before any intervention in her upbringing.
Jack: You're quite right.
Sam looked away for a moment, then back at him: We'll both have to make decisions beforehand about our educational choices and the values we want to pass on to them.
Jack nodded as he realised she was talking about their children: You must never contradict my word in front of them as you have just done. (She raised her eyebrows at his boldness and he added more quickly) The same goes for me. (She nodded at his argument, he moistened his lips with nervousness before resuming firmly) The choice of not having lethal weapons at home will not be an option.
She nodded slowly, uncomfortable about bringing up Charlie's traumas, and tried to work out how to fix the situation for herself.
Sam, nervous: I'm really going to need your help. (he frowned slightly and questioned her with his eyes) You have more experience than me on the subject.
Jack stared at her, sensing fear in her voice: I'll be there.
Sam looked away hesitantly: Because...'cause I've no idea why we need eosin or a (she frowned at the ridiculousness of these next words) "shell"?! (she moved her hand) Or how to fit this baby carrier fabric or whatever without getting tangled.
Jack, surprised by the way this discussion is going: What the hell?
Sam grimaced nervously: In a shop. The sales assistant looked down on me because I didn't know anything. She even judged my car by the baby seat. (she looked at him, totally distraught) I felt like a bad mother when I'm not even at that stage yet. (she moved her hand again and added more sharply, fear in her voice) What if it's a girl?
Jack: I suppose I'll have tea and cake with a tiara on my head? (she gave him a look and he quickly raised both hands) I'm joking.
Sam: It's hard enough dealing with a teenager who isn't even mine, so how can I deal with my own children? How do I protect myself if I have to be anaesthetised during childbirth? (He questioned her with his eyes and she looked away for a few seconds, uncomfortable talking about this with him) Do you know what vaginal tearing and husband stitch are?
Jack remembered the pain Sara had felt: Yeah yeah yeah. Carter. (he insisted) I'll be there to keep an eye on the doctors. (this didn't seem to relax her so he tried a joke) Prepare for post-partum nappies.
Sam, as panicked as ever: Oh boy. I even thought about working on teleportation so I wouldn't have to give birth.
Jack raised his eyebrows in surprise: That's... That's a good idea.
Sam cynically: But it will never be validated.
She leaned against the wall and breathed deeply. He swallowed and wondered how he could reassure her further. He remembered that she had managed to reassure him on the subject by reminding him of the times he had been there for Cassandra when he thought he couldn't be a good father. He leaned against the wall, right next to her.
Jack looked across at him: Eosin is used to dry out the umbilical cord. (she turned her head towards him) It falls off by itself after about ten days. Nursing shells help to heal cracks, but they can cause cysts to form-
Sam exclaimed: Galactocele! (he froze, then looked at her questioningly. She lowered her head and mumbled, sulking that the sales assistant had not used the medical term) I knew that.
Jack shrugged his shoulders: We'll be taking a family car.
Sam joked: An SUV?
Jack defended himself, vexed: I sold my pick-up! (she giggled and he continued) It's not as if we couldn't afford it. (she nodded slowly, slightly ashamed, without knowing why) As for being a good mother... Being parents means worrying, all the time, and I think you've proved that enough.
She smiled shyly and didn't dare tell him that having to take on the responsibility of looking after Mark after her mother's accident had left a huge mark on her.
Sam tilted her head and tried to play it down: Yeah well... I thought I knew anxiety until I took it on.
Jack looked up at the ceiling, uncomfortable: In any case... I'm sorry.
Sam shook her head, looking sad: I'm sorry too. I didn't mean to revive-
Jack turned slightly towards her, still leaning against the wall: It's all good. And I'm sure our offspring will be as stubborn and careful as you are, so I'm not worried about her. (she smiled and they looked at each other for a moment, not knowing what to do, so he suggested) Are you hungry?
Sam, delighted to change the subject: What did you take?
Jack headed for the bag: Salisbury Steak.
Sam joked: Do you miss the Mess that much?
Notes:
*Article: Portage and cultural appropriation (source)*
*Article: The trap of intensive parenting (source)*
*Article: the maternal instinct does not exist (source)*
*Video: raising society's awareness of women's rights (source)*
*Article: Boys need to be taught that they are not the centre of the universe(source)*
*Comic strip: Educating our sons, for the safety and peace of mind of all.(source)*
*Short film: Dear daddy(source)*
*Article: 160,000 children are victims of incest and sexual violence every year in France (source)*
*Article: accused of sexual assault, rape and rape of a minor! 28 complaints and over 190 testimonies, this gynaecologist is still practising(source)*
*Article: They arrest an anaesthetist who raped a pregnant woman during a caesarean section(source)*
*Article: Be careful not to shock fathers (source)*
*Article: How to put an end to obstetric violence (source)*
*Video: Men try a real simulation of the pain of childbirth(source)*
*Video: Les SUV à Paris (source)*
*Video: the problem with SUVs(source)*
*Article: Guns are the leading cause of death for American children and teenagers. (source)*
*Article: Gun violence in Nevada(source)*
*Article: Firearms are the leading cause of death among American children and teenagers. (source)*
*Article: France, 2023, 15-year-olds in military uniform, with weapons of war in their hands. In some countries, this is known as child soldiering. In France, it's the SNU. (source) (source) (source)*
*Remember the running gag with Fraiser when she examines Jack's eyes and he asks every time how it will help his problem. Jack shows his scepticism towards medicine. So it makes sense that he would watch the doctors for that.*
*In a sociological study of 7,000 women in heterosexual couples with one child, who were asked to assess their daily stress levels, it was found that their partners caused more stress to the women than their own children. The majority had a stress rate of 8.5 out of 10 and explained that their partner added more stress to their daily lives than their children. (source)*
*Article: How patriarchy can make you feel as a parent (source)*
*Video: Trend “no boyfriend until you’re adult*” (source) (source)*
*The sexist origins of back delivery (source)*
*A birthing suite in northern Ecuador, combining indigenous midwifery and Western medicine, with several different positions available. (source)*
*Video: Repairing a tear after childbirth (source)*
*Comic strip: Educating our sons, for the safety and peace of mind of all. (source)*
*Article: "They're not strong, they're girls": Illana Weizman questions gender stereotypes at school (source)*
*Video: The imbalance between mothers and fathers (source)*
*Article: The dark story of James Marion Sims, "father of modern gynaecology" (source)*
*Video: Obstetric violence is also verbal violence(source)*
*WHO article: "A woman dies every two minutes from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, according to United Nations agencies". (source)*
*Video: Examples of inappropriate or shocking words spoken by dads in the delivery room (source)*
*Information on Gun Violence in the United States (source)*
*Video: "Why are there more safety steps to start my phone than for the guns you make?" (source)*
*Study: Gun violence, 1993-2011 (source)*
*Video: Yolanda King, activist and granddaughter of Martin Luther King, challenges members of Congress on the carrying of weapons in the United States. (source)*
*Video: And nobody cares, the values (source)*
*Article: The child, the couple's black hole (source)*
*Article: The double standard of parenthood (source)*
*Article: Men protect women" A persistent myth fuelled by fiction(source)*
*Video: don't let your children go to public toilets on their own (source)*
Bonus:
*click here*
After getting the rental car's headlights fixed, he knocked on the motel room door and she opened it for him.
Jack: Hey.
Sam invited him in: Hey.
Jack placed a bag on the table: Dinner. Just as we planned.
Sam nodded and looked away: Thanks.
Jack hesitated, but his concern got the better of him: Cass’?
Sam hid her bitterness: She's doing well.
Jack nodded and changed the subject, as she didn't seem to want to go back over it: Oh. I've had an e-mail from the IOA. (she questioned him with her eyes) It's approved.
Sam: What are you talking about?
Jack: Your idea for a bridge linking the Milky Way to Pegasus? The Chairman of the Appropriations Committee has approved the idea.
Sam raised her eyebrows: Wow. Only a few months to obtain subsidies for a project of this scale. That's a change.
Jack tried to re-establish a good relationship: Well... Congratulations. (she moistened her lips, he put his hands in his pockets and looked apprehensive) Can we talk about what happened earlier?
Sam: Never force her to become like you and me. (she insisted) Remember Daniel. (he swallowed and nodded, finally understanding her reaction. She continued, her tone as calm as ever) Look. Cassie is part of my life and you're part of mine. It seems obvious that she wants you to be part of hers. (he wanted to reply but she continued before being cut off) I agree with that, hence my invitation today, but only under certain conditions.
Jack: I'm not his guardian.
Sam nodded firmly: You are not his guardian. (he nodded) Now she's lucky enough to have power, and we've both been working on this for a year now.
Jack grinned: I know
Sam: I know the risks. She's a young woman who lives in Nevada and she's been through more than most people. You must consult me before any intervention in her upbringing.
Jack: You're quite right.
Sam looked away for a moment, then back at him: We'll both have to make decisions beforehand about our educational choices and the values we want to pass on to them.
Jack nodded as he realised she was talking about their children: You must never contradict my word in front of them as you have just done. (She raised her eyebrows at his boldness and he added more quickly) The same goes for me. (She nodded at his argument, he moistened his lips with nervousness before resuming firmly) The choice of not having lethal weapons at home will not be an option.
She nodded slowly, uncomfortable about bringing up Charlie's traumas, and tried to work out how to fix the situation for herself.
Sam, nervous: I'm really going to need your help. (he frowned slightly and questioned her with his eyes) You have more experience than me on the subject.
Jack stared at her, sensing fear in her voice: I'll be there.
Sam looked away hesitantly: Because...'cause I've no idea why we need eosin or a (she frowned at the ridiculousness of these next words) "shell"?! (she moved her hand) Or how to fit this baby carrier fabric or whatever without getting tangled.
Jack, surprised by the way this discussion is going: What the hell?
Sam grimaced nervously: In a shop. The sales assistant looked down on me because I didn't know anything. She even judged my car by the baby seat. (she looked at him, totally distraught) I felt like a bad mother when I'm not even at that stage yet. (she moved her hand again and added more sharply, fear in her voice) What if it's a girl?
Jack: I suppose I'll have tea and cake with a tiara on my head? (she gave him a look and he quickly raised both hands) I'm joking.
Sam: It's hard enough dealing with a teenager who isn't even mine, so how can I deal with my own children? How do I protect myself if I have to be anaesthetised during childbirth? (He questioned her with his eyes and she looked away for a few seconds, uncomfortable talking about this with him) Do you know what vaginal tearing and husband stitch are?
Jack remembered the pain Sara had felt: Yeah yeah yeah. Carter. (he insisted) I'll be there to keep an eye on the doctors. (this didn't seem to relax her so he tried a joke) Prepare for post-partum nappies.
Sam, as panicked as ever: Oh boy. I even thought about working on teleportation so I wouldn't have to give birth.
Jack raised his eyebrows in surprise: That's... That's a good idea.
Sam cynically: But it will never be validated.
She leaned against the wall and breathed deeply. He swallowed and wondered how he could reassure her further. He remembered that she had managed to reassure him on the subject by reminding him of the times he had been there for Cassandra when he thought he couldn't be a good father. He leaned against the wall, right next to her.
Jack looked across at him: Eosin is used to dry out the umbilical cord. (she turned her head towards him) It falls off by itself after about ten days. Nursing shells help to heal cracks, but they can cause cysts to form-
Sam exclaimed: Galactocele! (he froze, then looked at her questioningly. She lowered her head and mumbled, sulking that the sales assistant had not used the medical term) I knew that.
Jack shrugged his shoulders: We'll be taking a family car.
Sam joked: An SUV?
Jack defended himself, vexed: I sold my pick-up! (she giggled and he continued) It's not as if we couldn't afford it. (she nodded slowly, slightly ashamed, without knowing why) As for being a good mother... Being parents means worrying, all the time, and I think you've proved that enough.
She smiled shyly and didn't dare tell him that having to take on the responsibility of looking after Mark after her mother's accident had left a huge mark on her.
Sam tilted her head and tried to play it down: Yeah well... I thought I knew anxiety until I took it on.
Jack looked up at the ceiling, uncomfortable: In any case... I'm sorry.
Sam shook her head, looking sad: I'm sorry too. I didn't mean to revive-
Jack turned slightly towards her, still leaning against the wall: It's all good. And I'm sure our offspring will be as stubborn and careful as you are, so I'm not worried about her. (she smiled and they looked at each other for a moment, not knowing what to do, so he suggested) Are you hungry?
Sam, delighted to change the subject: What did you take?
Jack headed for the bag: Salisbury Steak.
Sam joked: Do you miss the Mess that much?
Notes:
*Article: Portage and cultural appropriation (source)*
*Article: The trap of intensive parenting (source)*
*Article: the maternal instinct does not exist (source)*
*Video: raising society's awareness of women's rights (source)*
*Article: Boys need to be taught that they are not the centre of the universe(source)*
*Comic strip: Educating our sons, for the safety and peace of mind of all.(source)*
*Short film: Dear daddy(source)*
*Article: 160,000 children are victims of incest and sexual violence every year in France (source)*
*Article: accused of sexual assault, rape and rape of a minor! 28 complaints and over 190 testimonies, this gynaecologist is still practising(source)*
*Article: They arrest an anaesthetist who raped a pregnant woman during a caesarean section(source)*
*Article: Be careful not to shock fathers (source)*
*Article: How to put an end to obstetric violence (source)*
*Video: Men try a real simulation of the pain of childbirth(source)*
*Video: Les SUV à Paris (source)*
*Video: the problem with SUVs(source)*
*Article: Guns are the leading cause of death for American children and teenagers. (source)*
*Article: Gun violence in Nevada(source)*
*Article: Firearms are the leading cause of death among American children and teenagers. (source)*
*Article: France, 2023, 15-year-olds in military uniform, with weapons of war in their hands. In some countries, this is known as child soldiering. In France, it's the SNU. (source) (source) (source)*
*Remember the running gag with Fraiser when she examines Jack's eyes and he asks every time how it will help his problem. Jack shows his scepticism towards medicine. So it makes sense that he would watch the doctors for that.*
*In a sociological study of 7,000 women in heterosexual couples with one child, who were asked to assess their daily stress levels, it was found that their partners caused more stress to the women than their own children. The majority had a stress rate of 8.5 out of 10 and explained that their partner added more stress to their daily lives than their children. (source)*
*Article: How patriarchy can make you feel as a parent (source)*
*Video: Trend “no boyfriend until you’re adult*” (source) (source)*
*The sexist origins of back delivery (source)*
*A birthing suite in northern Ecuador, combining indigenous midwifery and Western medicine, with several different positions available. (source)*
*Video: Repairing a tear after childbirth (source)*
*Comic strip: Educating our sons, for the safety and peace of mind of all. (source)*
*Article: "They're not strong, they're girls": Illana Weizman questions gender stereotypes at school (source)*
*Video: The imbalance between mothers and fathers (source)*
*Article: The dark story of James Marion Sims, "father of modern gynaecology" (source)*
*Video: Obstetric violence is also verbal violence(source)*
*WHO article: "A woman dies every two minutes from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, according to United Nations agencies". (source)*
*Video: Examples of inappropriate or shocking words spoken by dads in the delivery room (source)*
*Information on Gun Violence in the United States (source)*
*Video: "Why are there more safety steps to start my phone than for the guns you make?" (source)*
*Study: Gun violence, 1993-2011 (source)*
*Video: Yolanda King, activist and granddaughter of Martin Luther King, challenges members of Congress on the carrying of weapons in the United States. (source)*
*Video: And nobody cares, the values (source)*
*Article: The child, the couple's black hole (source)*
*Article: The double standard of parenthood (source)*
*Article: Men protect women" A persistent myth fuelled by fiction(source)*
*Video: don't let your children go to public toilets on their own (source)*
Bonus:
*click here*
Once the boys had left, Sam sat down on a stool beside her and the two women smiled politely at each other.
Sam: How are you feeling?
Vala with cynicism: You mean after giving birth to a baby that was then taken away from me and after only a few hours she already wanted to rule the galaxy? (Sam's face decomposed at these words) What?
Sam shook her head: Nothing. (she looked at it firmly) We'll stop her.
Vala stared at her, puzzled, and Sam forced herself to smile as naturally as possible. Vala decided to change the subject, seeing that she didn't want to share her thoughts when you clearly couldn't lie to a liar.
Vala: So... tell me! What did I miss, boss?
Sam: Huuu! A pandemic caused by a virus from the Preachers, the Prometheus destroyed in battle, the Goa'uld infiltrating the government and one of them arriving in Atlantis, new flesh-eating insects... The usual.
Vala smiles, a little nervously: You weren't bored.
Sam grinned: Well... neither do you.
She lowered her head and Vala was touched that she was so worried about her.
Vala: You've... changed.
Sam raised her head and stared at her: Hum?
Vala frowned and stared at her: I don't know. (she tilted her head and looked away) It's true that we didn't take the time to get to know each other before I-
Sam with amusement: -go to another galaxy?
Vala scrutinizes her face: I sense that something has changed in you.
They looked at each other for a moment, Sam wondered if Vala's having carried a Goa'uld inside her might have given her the kind of "intuitions" she herself might have had with Jolinar about the people around her and smiled nervously despite herself at the thought.
Sam is raised: I'll let you get some rest. Need anything?
Vala: No, thanks. (Sam began to leave) Colonel Carter?
Sam turned around: Hum?
Vala hesitated for a moment, then changed her mind: It's good to see you all again.
Sam smiled broadly: You too.
Vala's face sagged gently once she had left the room. She hadn't noticed it before because Teal'c had always been in the same room, but now she was sure: she too had naquadah in her blood.
Notes:
*Chronologically in the canon saga, Vala may not know that Sam wore a Tok'ra*
Sam: How are you feeling?
Vala with cynicism: You mean after giving birth to a baby that was then taken away from me and after only a few hours she already wanted to rule the galaxy? (Sam's face decomposed at these words) What?
Sam shook her head: Nothing. (she looked at it firmly) We'll stop her.
Vala stared at her, puzzled, and Sam forced herself to smile as naturally as possible. Vala decided to change the subject, seeing that she didn't want to share her thoughts when you clearly couldn't lie to a liar.
Vala: So... tell me! What did I miss, boss?
Sam: Huuu! A pandemic caused by a virus from the Preachers, the Prometheus destroyed in battle, the Goa'uld infiltrating the government and one of them arriving in Atlantis, new flesh-eating insects... The usual.
Vala smiles, a little nervously: You weren't bored.
Sam grinned: Well... neither do you.
She lowered her head and Vala was touched that she was so worried about her.
Vala: You've... changed.
Sam raised her head and stared at her: Hum?
Vala frowned and stared at her: I don't know. (she tilted her head and looked away) It's true that we didn't take the time to get to know each other before I-
Sam with amusement: -go to another galaxy?
Vala scrutinizes her face: I sense that something has changed in you.
They looked at each other for a moment, Sam wondered if Vala's having carried a Goa'uld inside her might have given her the kind of "intuitions" she herself might have had with Jolinar about the people around her and smiled nervously despite herself at the thought.
Sam is raised: I'll let you get some rest. Need anything?
Vala: No, thanks. (Sam began to leave) Colonel Carter?
Sam turned around: Hum?
Vala hesitated for a moment, then changed her mind: It's good to see you all again.
Sam smiled broadly: You too.
Vala's face sagged gently once she had left the room. She hadn't noticed it before because Teal'c had always been in the same room, but now she was sure: she too had naquadah in her blood.
Notes:
*Chronologically in the canon saga, Vala may not know that Sam wore a Tok'ra*
The time on her watch made her quicken her pace towards the elevator: if this kept up, she'd be late for the briefing.
Sam stopped abruptly and looked around the room in astonishment: Doctor Weir?
Elizabeth from the sofa: Colonel Carter, hello.
Sam picked herself up: Hi. (she frowned, curious) I'm surprised to see you here.
Elizabeth: IOA.
Sam grimaced slightly: Oooh. (but she quickly recovered and straightened up.) Hm.
Elizabeth dodged a smile and lowered his head for a split second: Being in another galaxy apparently doesn't spare me from them. I suppose I have to be happy about that, it must be worse for all of you here.
Sam bent her head: It depends on our responsibilities. Some of us deal with them more than others.
They smiled at each other.
Elizabeth: What's up? How are things going here for you?
Sam nodded her head a little too vigorously: Good, good.
Elizabeth realized she was lying: Ori.
Sam exaggerated: Yeeep.
Elizabeth: Is it that bad?
Sam: We remain hopeful.
Elizabeth stared at her for a moment, surprised at her optimism: You've changed.
Sam wondered why everyone was telling her that right now: Hum?
Elizabeth: I understand you worked at Area 51?
Sam: That's right.
Elizabeth: Do you miss those dark, gloomy corridors?
Sam: There are good and bad sides to both places. (Elizabeth nodded and Sam quickly caught up, just in case) But my place is here. We're at war.
Elizabeth frowned slightly at her reaction and nodded: It's up to you to join “our war”, Colonel.
Sam dodged a smile: Yeah... (she looked away) It's definitely not just up to me.
Elizabeth blew out her nose and the two women looked at each other knowingly: For your information, I read your reports with great attention and admiration.
Sam wondered if she was just being polite or sincere: No offense... Do you understand them? (Elizabeth chuckled lightly) I feel like I'm only writing them for the geek squad.
Elizabeth: Let's just say they're a lot less haughty than someone on my team.
Sam dodged a smile: I don't doubt it. How are things going over there for you?
Elizabeth nodded and smiled wistfully: This city and these people have become my family, in a way.
Sam: I understand that. You'll be joining them soon, it's just a bad time. (Weir's face decomposed) What?
Elizabeth recovered: No, nothing. Everything's fine, Colonel.
Sam understood through her reaction to put some distance between them: Your place on Atlantis is being re-evaluated?
Elizabeth tried to be as impassive as possible: Hum. Well... you keep hoping.
Sam looked at her for a moment, at a loss for words.
Sam, an inch over her shoulder and nervous: I... I've got to go. Briefing in (she looked at her watch and widened her eyes) 3 minutes ago. (Elizabeth smiled at her reaction) It was nice to see you again.
Elizabeth: Likewise, Colonel.
Sam stopped abruptly and looked around the room in astonishment: Doctor Weir?
Elizabeth from the sofa: Colonel Carter, hello.
Sam picked herself up: Hi. (she frowned, curious) I'm surprised to see you here.
Elizabeth: IOA.
Sam grimaced slightly: Oooh. (but she quickly recovered and straightened up.) Hm.
Elizabeth dodged a smile and lowered his head for a split second: Being in another galaxy apparently doesn't spare me from them. I suppose I have to be happy about that, it must be worse for all of you here.
Sam bent her head: It depends on our responsibilities. Some of us deal with them more than others.
They smiled at each other.
Elizabeth: What's up? How are things going here for you?
Sam nodded her head a little too vigorously: Good, good.
Elizabeth realized she was lying: Ori.
Sam exaggerated: Yeeep.
Elizabeth: Is it that bad?
Sam: We remain hopeful.
Elizabeth stared at her for a moment, surprised at her optimism: You've changed.
Sam wondered why everyone was telling her that right now: Hum?
Elizabeth: I understand you worked at Area 51?
Sam: That's right.
Elizabeth: Do you miss those dark, gloomy corridors?
Sam: There are good and bad sides to both places. (Elizabeth nodded and Sam quickly caught up, just in case) But my place is here. We're at war.
Elizabeth frowned slightly at her reaction and nodded: It's up to you to join “our war”, Colonel.
Sam dodged a smile: Yeah... (she looked away) It's definitely not just up to me.
Elizabeth blew out her nose and the two women looked at each other knowingly: For your information, I read your reports with great attention and admiration.
Sam wondered if she was just being polite or sincere: No offense... Do you understand them? (Elizabeth chuckled lightly) I feel like I'm only writing them for the geek squad.
Elizabeth: Let's just say they're a lot less haughty than someone on my team.
Sam dodged a smile: I don't doubt it. How are things going over there for you?
Elizabeth nodded and smiled wistfully: This city and these people have become my family, in a way.
Sam: I understand that. You'll be joining them soon, it's just a bad time. (Weir's face decomposed) What?
Elizabeth recovered: No, nothing. Everything's fine, Colonel.
Sam understood through her reaction to put some distance between them: Your place on Atlantis is being re-evaluated?
Elizabeth tried to be as impassive as possible: Hum. Well... you keep hoping.
Sam looked at her for a moment, at a loss for words.
Sam, an inch over her shoulder and nervous: I... I've got to go. Briefing in (she looked at her watch and widened her eyes) 3 minutes ago. (Elizabeth smiled at her reaction) It was nice to see you again.
Elizabeth: Likewise, Colonel.
Surprised to come across Teal'c training Vala blindfolded, she watched them for a few minutes, curious to see how she managed to get Teal'c to offer her the kind of apprenticeship he'd never offered her before. Teal'c attacked her with a stick several times, and Vala parried the blows with disconcerting agility. However, when Teal'c bombarded her again and she had no choice but to back away with each blow, getting closer and closer to Sam, she lost control and Teal'c stopped his thrust at the first impact of the stick in her shoulder.
Vala grunted in pain: Ouch!
Furious with herself, she briskly withdrew the ribbon and turned to Sam. She froze in surprise, and half-opened her mouth as she realized that this was an exercise in concentration on the naquadah present in their receptive bodies.
Sam put on a brave face: Sorry.
Vala handed her the headband: Want to give it a try? (she rubbed her shoulder with her free hand) I need to take a break.
Sam glanced at Teal'c, who inclined his head in acceptance. She remembered the guilt she'd felt at not having detected the naquadah in the walls of Athena's premises and wondered if this kind of training could sharpen that sense.
Sam hesitantly approached: Okay.
She grabbed the ribbon, trying to hide her unease that they'd never done this practice together in all these years, and concluded that this training proposal had to come from her.
Vala still rubbing her shoulder: And then, if one of us is injured, one of us will always be able to treat the others more quickly.
Sam frowned: What do you mean?
Vala: Well, with the healing bracelets. (Sam's face decomposed at the memory of using the device on Daniel, but also the combat bracelet on Seth. Vala noticed his confusion, glanced at Teal'c, who contracted his jaw, then turned her attention back to Sam, lost) What did I say wrong?
Sam, a little too firmly than she wanted: I don't use this technology.
Vala feeling excluded again, coldly: Very well.
Sam caught herself: No, I'm sorry. I... Forget it, will you? (Vala glared at her, then nodded. Sam moistened his lips in nervousness and tried a joke on Teal'c) I'm supposed to let my intuition guide me?
Teal’c dodged a smile: Indeed.
Vala juggled her gaze between the two, lost: Uh?
Teal’c to Vala: Star Wars. (she grabbed the stick and he put the blindfold on her eyes. Vala stood back as far as she could so as not to interfere in spite of herself) Are you ready, Colonel Carter?
Sam, unsure of herself: I suppose so.
Despite the slow movements, the exercise was a failure. At the end of the fourth undodged move, she tensed in frustration.
Vala raised her hand to Teal'c to stop the maneuver: Break. (she moved closer to her and placed her hand on her forearm) Feel this. (the naquadah tumbled over their skins, then she moved her hand a few centimetres apart) And here. (Sam concentrated on the presence of the protein. She nodded, and Vala spread her arm a few centimeters again) You can see without your eyes.
She focused more and more, doing the same concentration exercises she'd asked Cassandra to do to manage her powers, and was finally able to detect two distinct shapes in the room. She nodded again, telling Teal'c that she was ready once more.
Bonus:
*click here*
Vala grunted in pain: Ouch!
Furious with herself, she briskly withdrew the ribbon and turned to Sam. She froze in surprise, and half-opened her mouth as she realized that this was an exercise in concentration on the naquadah present in their receptive bodies.
Sam put on a brave face: Sorry.
Vala handed her the headband: Want to give it a try? (she rubbed her shoulder with her free hand) I need to take a break.
Sam glanced at Teal'c, who inclined his head in acceptance. She remembered the guilt she'd felt at not having detected the naquadah in the walls of Athena's premises and wondered if this kind of training could sharpen that sense.
Sam hesitantly approached: Okay.
She grabbed the ribbon, trying to hide her unease that they'd never done this practice together in all these years, and concluded that this training proposal had to come from her.
Vala still rubbing her shoulder: And then, if one of us is injured, one of us will always be able to treat the others more quickly.
Sam frowned: What do you mean?
Vala: Well, with the healing bracelets. (Sam's face decomposed at the memory of using the device on Daniel, but also the combat bracelet on Seth. Vala noticed his confusion, glanced at Teal'c, who contracted his jaw, then turned her attention back to Sam, lost) What did I say wrong?
Sam, a little too firmly than she wanted: I don't use this technology.
Vala feeling excluded again, coldly: Very well.
Sam caught herself: No, I'm sorry. I... Forget it, will you? (Vala glared at her, then nodded. Sam moistened his lips in nervousness and tried a joke on Teal'c) I'm supposed to let my intuition guide me?
Teal’c dodged a smile: Indeed.
Vala juggled her gaze between the two, lost: Uh?
Teal’c to Vala: Star Wars. (she grabbed the stick and he put the blindfold on her eyes. Vala stood back as far as she could so as not to interfere in spite of herself) Are you ready, Colonel Carter?
Sam, unsure of herself: I suppose so.
Despite the slow movements, the exercise was a failure. At the end of the fourth undodged move, she tensed in frustration.
Vala raised her hand to Teal'c to stop the maneuver: Break. (she moved closer to her and placed her hand on her forearm) Feel this. (the naquadah tumbled over their skins, then she moved her hand a few centimetres apart) And here. (Sam concentrated on the presence of the protein. She nodded, and Vala spread her arm a few centimeters again) You can see without your eyes.
She focused more and more, doing the same concentration exercises she'd asked Cassandra to do to manage her powers, and was finally able to detect two distinct shapes in the room. She nodded again, telling Teal'c that she was ready once more.
Bonus:
*click here*
Alexander and Sam appeared at the edge of the Stargate.
Sam surprised they're not directly on the moon: Where are you taking me?
Alexander: We discovered some sort of ruined palace behind these trees.
Sam: Oh, I'm so sorry. We forgot to tell you. We assume it was an outpost of the Goa'uld Nirrti, but it seemed to have been abandoned for some time.
Alexander nodded his head: We made the same observation. (he moved his hand) We found what seems to be a control panel, but we couldn't open it.
Sam: Very well. (they walked in silence for a moment) I was curious to see your progress on Hope.
Alexander dodged a smile: If you have time, we'll take a look at it right afterwards.
Sam: How are you getting on?
Alexander: Pretty well. Infrastructure is building up fast and we expect the first crop to be harvested in a few weeks' time.
Sam: That's great.
Alexander: It's not all over yet, and we're taking our time to test out different systems of living together, adapted to each person's needs. But everyone is very patient.
Sam: You seem very organized.
Alexander: Anang has a lot to do with it. She has lived in a community on a low income for most of her life. She's learned to improvise and find solutions in a very orderly way. (he tilted his head) Others might say "fastidious". Especially when it comes to details.
Sam dodged a smile: I'd noticed with these reports. (they arrived at the palace and entered the inner courtyard) So... How is she?
Alexander: Good, good. She's struggling a bit with the tribal councils. (she questioned him with her eyes) Well... It's complicated. They don't accept the idea that it's potentially an easy trip when they're fighting to get their land back.
Sam grimaced: especially if others are going back and forth.
Alexander: Yeah. And it's even harder to persuade them when you can't reveal the destination... But we're confident.
Sam agreed: Any news from Jonas?
Alexander shook his head: Unfortunately, he's too busy to join us with his responsibilities.
Sam added with a touch of guilt: Yeah, I'm having a hard time finding the time myself.
Alexander invited her into a room: It's here.
Sam saw Bell from behind: You called me- (Bell turned and Sam discovered her new hairdo) Wow. You look amazing.
Bell put her hand on her cheek and posed: Thank you. (They smiled at each other) Yeah I need help with a mechanical problem.
Sam walked over to the control panel: I've been informed. (she noticed the rust and dust around the panel, reached into the toolbox and began work) You know, we've gone over this place with a fine-tooth comb. There's nothing left to salvage.
Bell: Yeah, and the structures are too fragile to be renovated. But we're looking for crystals.
Sam stopped and looked at her: Hm. They'll be empty. There was no trace of energy in the walls. If it's energy you're looking for, you should ask Freyja to-
Bell shook her head: We're looking for empty crystals to fill. (Sam frowned) Recycling.
Sam: Oh. (she went back to work) Alec couldn't take care of it?
Bell glanced at Alexander: He can't come if the Sessrúmnir doesn't come for him.
Sam remembered: Yeah. That's a problem we'll have to solve.
Bell: He's thinking of deserting.
Sam nodded her head: He told me. (she tilted her head) Actually, I think he misses Earth.
Alexander with sarcasm: Or the freedom to go.
Sam raised her eyebrows and admitted the possibility: It's understandable. (she managed to open the control panel and began to remove the empty crystals one by one) Everything okay with Freyja and Týr?
Bell grimaced slightly: They're good executors. They know how to give advice while staying in the background.
Sam: Yeah, that's them. (she noticed Alexander's worried expression and the looks they exchanged) What's going on?
Alexander : We haven't heard from them in 2 weeks.
Sam, surprised: Is it common?
Bell: No.
Sam, grimaced in anticipation of the answer: So no Brísingar...?
Alexander shook his head: Their ship is gone. (Sam's face broke and he insisted) We're defenseless.
Notes:
*The illustration of Nirrti's palace comes from a sketch in the episode "Paradise Lost" (source)*
*Article: Traditions and values of generosity and care continue to be central to Native communities. These Native values can be an antidote to the greed, chaos, over-consumption, and hyper-individualism we so often see in the world around us. Let’s take a look at the world around us and focus on ensuring the collective well-being of our Native people and community. (source)*
Sam surprised they're not directly on the moon: Where are you taking me?
Alexander: We discovered some sort of ruined palace behind these trees.
Sam: Oh, I'm so sorry. We forgot to tell you. We assume it was an outpost of the Goa'uld Nirrti, but it seemed to have been abandoned for some time.
Alexander nodded his head: We made the same observation. (he moved his hand) We found what seems to be a control panel, but we couldn't open it.
Sam: Very well. (they walked in silence for a moment) I was curious to see your progress on Hope.
Alexander dodged a smile: If you have time, we'll take a look at it right afterwards.
Sam: How are you getting on?
Alexander: Pretty well. Infrastructure is building up fast and we expect the first crop to be harvested in a few weeks' time.
Sam: That's great.
Alexander: It's not all over yet, and we're taking our time to test out different systems of living together, adapted to each person's needs. But everyone is very patient.
Sam: You seem very organized.
Alexander: Anang has a lot to do with it. She has lived in a community on a low income for most of her life. She's learned to improvise and find solutions in a very orderly way. (he tilted his head) Others might say "fastidious". Especially when it comes to details.
Sam dodged a smile: I'd noticed with these reports. (they arrived at the palace and entered the inner courtyard) So... How is she?
Alexander: Good, good. She's struggling a bit with the tribal councils. (she questioned him with her eyes) Well... It's complicated. They don't accept the idea that it's potentially an easy trip when they're fighting to get their land back.
Sam grimaced: especially if others are going back and forth.
Alexander: Yeah. And it's even harder to persuade them when you can't reveal the destination... But we're confident.
Sam agreed: Any news from Jonas?
Alexander shook his head: Unfortunately, he's too busy to join us with his responsibilities.
Sam added with a touch of guilt: Yeah, I'm having a hard time finding the time myself.
Alexander invited her into a room: It's here.
Sam saw Bell from behind: You called me- (Bell turned and Sam discovered her new hairdo) Wow. You look amazing.
Bell put her hand on her cheek and posed: Thank you. (They smiled at each other) Yeah I need help with a mechanical problem.
Sam walked over to the control panel: I've been informed. (she noticed the rust and dust around the panel, reached into the toolbox and began work) You know, we've gone over this place with a fine-tooth comb. There's nothing left to salvage.
Bell: Yeah, and the structures are too fragile to be renovated. But we're looking for crystals.
Sam stopped and looked at her: Hm. They'll be empty. There was no trace of energy in the walls. If it's energy you're looking for, you should ask Freyja to-
Bell shook her head: We're looking for empty crystals to fill. (Sam frowned) Recycling.
Sam: Oh. (she went back to work) Alec couldn't take care of it?
Bell glanced at Alexander: He can't come if the Sessrúmnir doesn't come for him.
Sam remembered: Yeah. That's a problem we'll have to solve.
Bell: He's thinking of deserting.
Sam nodded her head: He told me. (she tilted her head) Actually, I think he misses Earth.
Alexander with sarcasm: Or the freedom to go.
Sam raised her eyebrows and admitted the possibility: It's understandable. (she managed to open the control panel and began to remove the empty crystals one by one) Everything okay with Freyja and Týr?
Bell grimaced slightly: They're good executors. They know how to give advice while staying in the background.
Sam: Yeah, that's them. (she noticed Alexander's worried expression and the looks they exchanged) What's going on?
Alexander : We haven't heard from them in 2 weeks.
Sam, surprised: Is it common?
Bell: No.
Sam, grimaced in anticipation of the answer: So no Brísingar...?
Alexander shook his head: Their ship is gone. (Sam's face broke and he insisted) We're defenseless.
Notes:
*The illustration of Nirrti's palace comes from a sketch in the episode "Paradise Lost" (source)*
*Article: Traditions and values of generosity and care continue to be central to Native communities. These Native values can be an antidote to the greed, chaos, over-consumption, and hyper-individualism we so often see in the world around us. Let’s take a look at the world around us and focus on ensuring the collective well-being of our Native people and community. (source)*