Shambhala
Milky Way
Eighteen months ago, the population of Shambhala increased dramatically. The first trickle of what would later turn into a flood of immigration from Earth to other destinations began. One hundred thousand men, women, and children from all countries relocated to the massive city on the planet, formerly known within SGC circles as the Alpha Site. Settling in to the alien surroundings came easily, but realization of the true scope of their new surroundings took far longer.
In time, these new arrivals found their footing. It began with polite conversations with both Tollan and Novan alike. The new arrivals soon found the peoples of other worlds residing within Shambhala's halls were not unlike them. That realization spurred a desire to integrate with those already present. While the Tollan's were somewhat aloof, the peoples of Novus quickly embraced those from the world of their ancestors, eager to learn about Earth from those unconnected to the gate program.
At ground level, shaded by the towering spires of the city, a recent change to Shambhala's system of parks and gardens sat. Built at the request of the new arrivals from Earth, this park lacked the rich floral life found in the city's other parks. Here, the children of the new arrivals, and later the Novan's and Tollan's enjoyed a favorite American pastime. Establishing leagues, Shambhala's first little league baseball game had been a hit with everyone. This game crossed cultural barriers, and brought first the children of three cultures together. As they watched their children play, parents found common bonds. Never had it been expected that baseball could unify a people together in so short a time. Despite enjoying their children's involvement, the Tollan parents still found the game incomprehensible.
Eighteen months of peace in the galaxy brought exciting challenges to the many known worlds within. Free from oppression and war, these worlds first grappled with the challenges of trade, then embraced it. The Pan Galactic Trade Exchange soon became a very busy place. Several of the lesser developed human cultures proved very shrewd traders. Many worlds benefitted from the flow of goods to and from Earth. As small economies took hold around the galaxy, the economy of Earth reached once unimagined heights.
Throughout the Milky Way and Pegasus galaxies, the utility of the United Worlds assembly had been realized. Fears of an Earth dominated assembly had been allayed, as the many member worlds, races, and species realized that each world had a voice of its own. Soon, these worlds began working not just with Earth, but also with each other. While several of these worlds had philosophical differences, the United Worlds allowed for these to be put to the side, while working towards shared goals. For the first time, sentient life moved forward on an unprecedented scale, not through war, but through negotiation, debate, and trade.
When the Tollan people and those of Novus first arrived at Shambhala, they were peoples lacking a home. A sense of shame overwhelmed many, with the knowledge of their being unable to sustain themselves without charity, especially charity from Earth. This had been hard on the Tollan people, more so than those of Novus. Integration into scientific and exploration efforts did much to alleviate these feelings. The Tollan's found themselves engaged in research, with their Tau'ri counterparts. The Tollan's and those of Novus also soon found themselves admitted to the ranks of those serving on Copernicus Class science vessels. Members of both cultures were also aboard Destiny currently, on her marquee mission of discovery.
High above the city, at the observation garden situated atop Shambhala's emerald and ruby class clad central spire, a meeting was beginning. Elizabeth Weir, Camille Wray, and Chancellor Narim of the Tollan, often spoke over coffee here. Conversation often ranged from official government policy, official grievances, and anecdotes from the day. That the three were friends helped matters considerably, altering any semblance of an official government meeting like dynamic.
"How was the White House Correspondents Dinner?" Camille Wray asked.
"President O'Bannon told a few entertaining stories, but his sense of humor pales in comparison to President Hayes." Elizabeth Weir admitted.
"See any friendly faces while you were on Earth?" Wray questioned.
"Secretary Landry sat at my table for the dinner. On my return, I also had a few moments with General Carter." Weir answered.
"Samantha?" Chancellor Narim asked.
"The very same." Weir replied.
"You and the General have some history, do you not Narim?" Wray asked.
"She is special to me, yes." Narim admitted.
"Special, eh? That sounds serious." Weir said with a chuckle.
"Had things been different, perhaps. Some dreams are meant to remain just that; dreams." Narim replied.
"Secretary Landry asked that I thank you Narim, for the devices." Weir stated.
"I hope the phase shifting modules serve him well. My people owe Earth far more than those few devices can ever begin to replay." Narim said solemnly.
"Though we get together often, this mornings meeting does have an overall purpose today." Wray stated officially.
"I stand ready to discuss this matter on behalf of the Tollan." Narim responded in a serious tone.
"Let me begin by saying how we value the Tollan presence here. We realize though that you will not always wish to remain in this city." Wray stated.
"As a people, the Tollan understand our debt to Earth for our salvation. We do wish to one-day return to having a world of our own. I must admit though, memories of the end fate of Tollana will haunt my people for many generations." Narim admitted.
"Several months ago, a survey team returned to Tollana. Taking their findings to our allies, the conclusion was reached that Tollana can be restored to what it once was." Wray stated.
"My people are of the belief that the devastation to Tollana was irreversible. Is this not the case?" Narim asked.
"In Earth's possession is the exogenesis device. Of Ancient design, this device terra forms even lifeless planetary bodies into life supporting worlds." Wray explained.
"This device could be used to restore Tollana?" Narim questioned.
"I am told it can. The question is would you wish for it to be used?" Wray asked.
"Our population though growing is still small. I doubt the Tollan number enough to warrant a world of our own." Narim countered.
"Tollana is your world, regardless of your numbers." Weir interjected.
"You would not have to relocate overnight. If you agree to the use of the exogenesis device, Tollana will be renewed. Maintaining residency here, your people will have as much time as is needed to set up the infrastructure needed there." Wray continued.
"My people will have security concerns." Narim added.
"The fleet of Earth will stand guard over Tollana, until the Tollan are in a position to defend the world themselves." Wray stated.
"While inviting, your offer can not be accepted or declined by myself alone. I will take this issue to the Tollan people. What they decide I will abide by, as is my duty as Chancellor." Narim said formally.
Consonance, Tok'ra Home World
Milky Way
An arid planet, Consonance lacked the lush vegetation found on so many other worlds in the universe. Vast swaths of desert made up much of the landmass, with frigid ice packed arctic zones at either pole. Sentient life never developed on this world. Later, technology made this once inhospitable planet possible to inhabit. Near the planets equator, a city rose up from the barren landscape, shining like a beacon of hope.
Constructed after the fall of the system lords, the Tok'ra capital city made use of time tested crystal construction technology. Developed to provide refuge from the System Lords, this technology had been used to open complexes of subterranean caverns on many planets throughout the Milky Way. When the need to remain undetected passed, Tok'ra scientific minds reconfigured the technology for another purpose. Now, this technology was used to create tall and shimmering towers that stood tall above the desert plain surrounding the city.
This city was still a work in progress. Since the arrival of Egeria, a new path for the city's development had taken shape. Reflective crystal towers ringed the city, while crystalline domes stood between the towers and city center. In the city center sat a docking station for the Tok'ra fleet. Circular in shape, this docking station was filled with reclaimed Tel'tak and Al'kesh of the fallen Goa'uld fleet. Throughout the docking facility were lush gardens lining pathways to spacecraft parking areas. Ringing the docking area stood statues of those Tok'ra who had fallen during the thousands of years of war against the now defeated System Lords. To say the city was striking was an understatement.
Making his way along the garden lined paths of the city, Colonel Paul Davis walked quickly. Having arrived moments earlier through the star gate, he was here to discuss a few matters with the Tok'ra. Instead of enjoying the picturesque surroundings of an allied home world, he concentrated on the topics he was to speak on. Entering a five story crystalline dome, Davis made his way towards the conference room used for this purpose many times in the past.
Entering the conference room, Davis saw a room filled with familiar faces. Seated at the end of a long polished granite table was Egeria, who after her cloning blended with Captain Kathryn Hughes of the United States Air Force. At Egeria's right had sat Sel'mak, who blended with Merrin of the Orban. Also present was Thoran, a long time commander of Tok'ra intelligence gathering efforts. Egeria graciously waved Davis toward a seat at the center of the table, so discussions could begin. From his briefcase, Davis removed a glossy black disc shaped device, setting it on the table as he took his seat.
"Colonel Davis, it is always a pleasure to see you." Egeria began.
"Thank you for receiving me on short notice. As always, it is an honor." Colonel Davis replied.
"May I ask what necessitated this meeting Colonel?" Sel'mak asked.
"At the request of my government, I am here present a recent discovery to you. It is our hope that you might have encountered this civilization before during your undercover efforts in the galaxy." Davis stated.
"Have you brought information of this civilization for analysis?" Thoran asked.
"I have." Davis replied, as he activated the device in front of him.
Springing from the device, a holographic video playback of the Latin speaking man in the SGC infirmary began. From their, a review of the uniforms and equipment carried by the man and his deceased teammates played out. At the end, footage of Earth's encounter with the Latin speaking rescue team off world was seen.
"The question my government poses to the Tok'ra is simple. Have you encountered humans matching those seen in the video playback before?" Davis asked.
"You must forgive me when I say I am the wrong individual to pose this question to. As queen of the Tok'ra, my children will answer as best they can." Egeria replied.
"Never have I encountered humans like this. Though I must admit, they are very similar to teams employed by the SGC." Sel'mak admitted.
Pursing his lips, Thoran stared at the table's surface. Running his hands over the polished granite, his discomfort was evident for all to see. Those seated around the table quickly took note of this. Davis, ever the diplomat, said nothing but took note of Thoran's actions.
"Thoran, do you have something to add to this discussion?" Egeria asked.
"I do my queen, but it is with humility that I do so." Thoran answered.
"Humility is a trait you have in great abundance, I am sure. Please, do enlighten us as to what you know." Egeria ordered softly.
"Shortly before the extraction ceremony of Ba'al, undercover operatives of the Tok'ra began to encounter humans matching those seen in the video. Language, equipment, and uniforms match the descriptions provided by our operatives in reports to me." Thoran admitted.
"I fail to see why admission of these facts requires humility." Sel'mak interjected.
Egeria and Sel'mak exchanged a glance. Thoran bowed his head towards his lap, knowing an easy way out of this would not be had. Davis retained his impassive poker face, while wondering what would happen next.
"It is not as simple as you make it out to be Sel'mak." Thoran said, his irritation showing.
"Thoran, our guest is waiting for a response." Egeria stated.
"Yes we have encountered humans matching these. Yes, we have reports attesting to that fact going back several years. You must understand my position in this matter. Earth is a world of many cultures and languages. Your cultures use similar yet different weaponry. Not every nation on Earth wears uniforms matching those of the others." Thoran said, trying to keep his temper in check.
"Are you saying you thought they were from Earth?" Davis asked.
"Yes Colonel, that is what I am saying." Thoran replied.
"Did you ever attempt to verify this belief with the Tau'ri?" Sel'mak asked.
"No, I did not." Thoran answered.
"Why?" Sel'mak asked pointedly.
"At the time, it was thought to be of little consequence. Armed teams of Tau'ri appearing on worlds throughout the galaxy are hardly a new development. The intelligence was classified as low priority, and filed away. No action was taken." Thoran relied.
"Thank you Thoran. We will discuss this further, when this meeting is over." Egeria said.
"I thank you for the insight. My apologies for any tension this has caused." Davis offered.
"We do have a number of other matters we wish to discuss with you Colonel." Sel'mak stated.
"I am prepared to listen. These matters I will take back to my government." Davis replied.
"Thoran, please continue." Egeria urged.
"Colonel Davis, as you are well aware, many minor Goa'uld under lords and several System Lords vanished altogether after the fall of Goa'uld domination of this galaxy. While many may have perished during the Ori incursion, we feel it likely that many more are hiding in the shadows." Thoran stated.
"I am sure this is cause for concern to the Tau'ri, as it is for the Tok'ra." Egeria said.
"Currently, several of our operatives are looking into reports of a minor Goa'uld. This Goa'uld is rumored to have established a new domain, with assistance of a powerful ally." Sel'mak stated.
"Can these reports be confirmed?" Davis asked.
"At this time, these reports remain unconfirmed. We will of course inform you of our findings once they are in hand." Thoran explained.
"If we can assist in any way, please do not hesitate to ask." Davis offered.
"I thank you for that offer. If and when assistance is required, I will of course inform you." Thoran stated.
"We have another matter to discuss as well." Egeria hinted.
"We are aware of your investigation into gravitational anomalies within the Perseus Arm of this galaxy. Have you or the Asgard made any inroads into the source?" Sel'mak asked.
"Unfortunately, we have as yet to discover the source of the anomalies." Davis answered.
"Might I suggest a more involved effort Colonel?" Thoran asked.
"I can pass that suggestion along to my government." Davis replied.
"Please do. Another world has gone dark." Sel'mak urged.
"Was the world inhabited?" Davis asked.
"It was. No more than a hundred humans resided there." Sel'mak replied regretfully.
Alba Longa
Milky Way
Named for the city that was once home to the Julian kings who were relocated to Rome, Alba Longa was a lush and prosperous world. Modern in a way rarely seen on alien worlds, Alba Longa thrived in the way of Earth, Galar, and Hebridan before occupation by Ori followers. Two hundred and seventy four million humans called this world home; descendents of a transplanted population of eighteen thousand. Those transplanted had included the Ninth Legion Hispania, Legion auxiliaries, traders, patricians and equestrians, and those political figures unlucky enough to have been with the Legion formation.
Those captured by the Goa'uld known as Khepri were brought to this world to mind vast deposits of naquadah. For two years, the men and woman toiled away, enriching Khepri's naquadah stockpiles to new heights. Applying Roman ingenuity to the task at hand, they astounded their captor. At one point Khepri had pondered if gathering further numbers of these Romans for use as labor on other worlds would be worth the risk of incurring the wrath of the Asgard for intrusion onto the First World. Uprising by the Romans put that thought quickly to rest.
Roman refusal to submit or become a conquered people persevered in the face of enslavement. The fledgling rebellion started with lone Jaffa standing guard duty in the naquadah mines dying in mysterious cave-ins and rock falls. That these rock falls were cleaned up before further Jaffa forces could arrive was a testament to the orderly Roman mindset, so Khepri had believed. Those not toiling in the mines turned materials slowly gathered into bladed weapons. Finally, the Romans opted to strike. Storming Jaffa barracks, the Romans cut down the unarmed and asleep Jaffa they encountered. From there, they took to Khepri's palace.
Believing the Khepri cornered, the Romans settled in for a waiting game. Unknown to them, Khepri had made his way out of the palace and to a set of rings hidden to all but him. Once there, Khepri ringed aboard a cloaked Al'kesh. Before his departure, he bombarded the three Ha'tak sitting on the planet's surface. Were it not for the embarrassment of being overthrown by a primitive people, Khepri would have soon returned to conquer the world again. His death at the hands of Ra weeks later laid that plan permanently to rest. No Goa'uld ever returned to the world unknown to them.
Free from the bonds of slavery to Khepri, the Romans buried the gate their taskmaster had been so enamored with. Teams were formed, and sent in all directions on the mission to locate Rome. Years later, they learned that Rome would never be found. Instead, they began to rebuild their society. Finding an area with seven hills and a rich river flowing nearby, they took up the effort of rebuilding their lost capital. Lacking any other population on this world, the Romans instead dedicated themselves to the pursuit of advancement. They did this to fight off an incursion, should Khepri or his forces ever return. This became the driving force in their culture.
Lacking anyone of the Caesars bloodline, hopes of rebuilding the empire were cast aside. Instead, they returned to the system of the republic. The Senate, Comitia Tributa or Assembly of Tribes, and the Tribunes of the Plebs became the forces of government on this world. A copy of the constitution of Rome was redrafted, and put into effect. From there, differences in culture began to emerge.
Lacking numbers, those slaves brought with those relocated were freed. Having been subjected to slavery themselves, the Romans soon abolished slavery soon after the eviction of Khepri. Slavery soon thereafter became viewed as a vile and barbaric practice. As they had been slaves to a god of the Egyptian pantheon, soon religion took a backseat in Roman life. While they did build temples and make offerings, it lacked the importance to them it once had.
In his wake, Khepri left behind storehouses of Goa'uld technology. Weapons technology, computer systems full of information in an alien language, and examples of other technologies unlike that of the Goa'uld were present. In addition, naquadah in vast quantities filled warehouses, ready for delivery to other corners of Khepri's domain.
The bulk of this material remained outside of Roman comprehension for many centuries. In time, their understanding expanded. Almost two millennia later, secrets were still being unlocked. Generations later, the technology and scientific base of those on Alba Longa exceeded that of Earth in a pre-disclosure world.
The cities of Alba Longa today were a mixture of ancient and modern architecture. The capital and first city of the world, also bearing the name Alba Longa, showed the history of its people. In the old city, behind the tall Servian Walls, gleaming white marble structures stood. Outside of those walls, gleaming glass towers made up the new city surrounding the walled-in old city. Powering this city and the others present was a complex of naquadah-fueled reactors.
Protecting this world was a military much like modern militaries found on Earth. Armed with cartridge-based automatic weapons, ground forces were supported by Jaffa staff cannon-like devices in the artillery role. Sidearms similar to zat's were also standard issue. Clad in digital camouflage similar to the US Army's Multicam pattern, the fighting men of Alba Longa could have easily fit in on any base on Earth. Altogether, Alba Longa's military numbered fifty legions of forty-eight hundred men apiece. To this was added plentiful numbers of engineers.
Their Air Force was smaller. Equipped with a craft loosely resembling the Death Gliders reverse engineered over centuries, they would have been more than a match for Khepri had he returned. Built in great number, total numbers of these craft were deceptive. Though many hundreds sat at above-ground launching points, underground storehouses filled with these and other military equipment existed across the countryside. In these storehouses rested weaponry, food and supplies, uniforms, and other staples needed to arm each citizen in defense of this world.
Six years ago, the Senate and Military High Command decided the wisest course for defense of their people was to journey into the galaxy through the gate. The galaxy they found was far from the one they expected. Early theories of a galaxy teaming with civilizations far more advanced than Alba Longa were soon dashed. Instead, they found a galaxy full of human life, but human civilizations subsisting at an agrarian level. Even more unsettling were the planets found with standing cities and settlements, but devoid of population. On many worlds, evidence of Khepri or those like him was found. This discovery increased the urgency of the Alba Longan search for Rome.
Formed for the task, one Legion was dedicated to this task. The Domum Viam Legio or Homeward Path Legion, were the finest legionaries from throughout the legion corps. The task of seeking out Rome, and unlocking a history stolen from them was an honor entrusted to these men. It was men of the Domum Viam Legio that SG-31 found in ruins, and later skirmished with at first contact.
This day marked a turning point for the population of Alba Longa. Many believed that the long search for an advanced human race of allies might be over. Revelations of Rome heightened excitement about those of Earth to a fevered pitch. As if grasping for a wisp of smoke that might vanish were they to blink, the Alba Longan Senate moved rapidly to invite a delegation from Earth to the planet. Some among the Senate feared the potential danger to Alba Longa was being overlooked, but that voice rested with the minority of Senators.
In a terrazzo-covered plaza within the old city section of the capital, the star gate activated. A collection of Senators, and the Consul who held the fasces this month with his lictors in attendance, waited near the gate. Moving into position after the wormhole was established; an honor guard composed of legionaries lined the steps leading from the gate to the plaza. The effect was impressive and slightly overwhelming, as was intended.
Stepping through the event horizon, Secretary of State Simon Barnes, Doctor Daniel Jackson, and several minor functionaries emerged. Due to the armed confrontation at first contact, the Secretary's customary diplomatic protective detail remained on Earth. This was not to say the new arrivals lacked security though. Accompanying those from Earth was a very advanced piece of equipment. Resembling a living creature, as its disguise was intended to accomplish, this particular piece of equipment looked like a panther in shape and size. The Cybernetic Autonomous Armed Tracker, or CAAT, was the military's new fearsome toy. Equipped for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, CAAT was equipped for many eventualities. Against the objections of Jackson, Secretary of Defense Landry had insisted that the delegation not go without some level of protection should relations turn south.
Stepping onto the plaza's terrazzo tiling, those from Earth were welcomed like long lost family. Several eyebrows rose at the sight of CAAT though. One of Secretary Barnes' assistants made excuses for the panther, stating seriously that when the Secretary traveled the animal went through separation anxiety. The Secretary himself covered this excuse, suggesting those of Alba Longa might wish to view animals similar to those their ancestors had imported to Rome at great expense.
The procession proceeded from the plaza containing the star gate, to the gleaming marble Senate House, also known as the Curia Fabia. Climbing a wide stairway within the building, the delegation and those receiving them made their way to the highest floor of the building. There, in a chamber reserved for the most sensitive of senatorial discussion, the meeting of Earth and her long lost children began.
Over the course of five informative hours, the two cultures exchanged information about their history; their present; and their hopes for a new future. It was quickly established that the two cultures had many similarities, while also having many similarities. Despite their differences, progress was made and the meeting flowed smoothly. Thanks to the inclusion of a universal translator of sorts from DARPA, language posed no hurdle to the assorted delegates. Finally, the Alba Longan delegation came to the crux of the matter, as they saw it.
"Secretary Barnes, you have provided welcome information to this august body today. For that we thank you." Consul Fulvious Flavius said formally.
"Consul, I thank you for also providing a great deal of insight into your culture and history. You have solved a mystery on my world that has existed for several thousand years." Barnes replied.
"You mean the disappearance of the Ninth is known to this day?" Flavius asked.
"It is actually a legend." Jackson interjected.
"My people yearn for a dream shared today as it was by our ancestors. We wish to know Rome. We wish to see Rome." Flavius said, hope in his voice.
"Rome is no longer a country unto itself. It is a city of great importance on Earth though. I believe the Italian government would hold no objections to a delegation from your world traveling to Rome." Secretary Barnes replied.
"If this can be provided, Alba Longa will be in your eternal debt." Flavius intoned.
"We would also like to invite you to a city of ours on another world. Shambhala, the city, is host to trade and economic initiative of our world within several galaxies. It is also host to the United Worlds organization. If you agree, we wish to introduce your people to delegates from other worlds and galaxies that are members of the United Worlds." Jackson explained.
"How does one become a member of this organization?" Flavius asked.
"Membership is voluntary. Do not rush to make a decision to join. Come see the organization in action, and decide when ready. We simply wish to extend our welcome into the community of nations within the universe." Barnes said cordially.
"Our two worlds began relations on a rocky footing, but you have alleviated many of our initial concerns. In time, I hope our worlds and people can be reunited, forming a union that will carry us into the future together." Flavius stated.
"Consul, we too hope for that very thing." Barnes replied.
Though much remained to be explained, shown, and demonstrated; on this day Earth and Alba Longa went far in establishing lasting relations. In diplomatic relations, hope springs eternal. In this case, the hopes of the diplomatic corps of two worlds welled up within the beating heart of many.
Possara
Lucian Alliance Home World
Milky Way
Seated on a patio, overlooking the facilities of the Lucian Alliance's new home world, the Alliance's leadership were deep in discussion. When the Alliance had arrived, they were a collection of people lacking most everything. Weeks after arrival, a new shipyard, a blossoming settlement, and production facilities stood. Now, eighteen months later, the Alliance was approaching a level of power it had never before enjoyed. This newfound power was something the current Alliance leadership refused to squander.
"What do we know of this man who prevented Cordry's capture?" Vosh demanded.
"Very little. We do know Cordry is incompetent." Sloviash replied.
"That was never in any doubt. What about his rescuer?" Bulak asked, suppressing a chuckle.
"If this man did eliminate a strike force of the Tau'ri, then he is worth investing further attention into. This man did pass on an interesting piece of information about the Tau'ri that is of interest to us." Kefflin stated.
"We must test him! If he is an agent of the Tau'ri, a test will reveal that fact." Vosh urged.
"I agree that he must be tested. The information he provided concerns the shipping and movement schedule of a cargo of Tau'ri weaponry. I propose we purloin this shipment for ourselves. Send low-level operatives for the task. If this is a failure, we are out nothing but several incompetents. If it succeeds, we will have a shipload of their weapons." Kefflin plotted.
"How do we deal with a Tau'ri vessel in hyperspace?" Bulak asked.
"According to the source, the vessel is scheduled to stop near a nebula for twelve hours to transfer the cargo to another vessel. We will simply board during that time." Kefflin stated.
"And what of the Tau'ri? Have we not waited long enough to strike at their interests in the galaxy?" Sloviash demanded.
"Our operatives on Earth remain undetected. Patience is key to this scenario." Kefflin answered.
"Can we be sure our operatives are still there and undetected?" Vosh asked honestly.
"Yes, I can be sure. We have certain assets in place that would alert me of that fact." Kefflin replied acidly.
"Now, what of our Kassa deliveries?" Bulak questioned.
"Deliveries are on schedule. The market of interest we discussed will soon be ours. That I promise you." Sloviash promised.