O'Neill slipped down the corrugated escape tube with studied grace, despite having his left arm in a sling. Kris Martin followed him with equal agility. Quietly sneaking into the SGC was no mean feat. But, Jack O'Neill was up to it. It was not the first time he'd accomplished such a maneuver. Therefore, he was an able teacher for the less experienced Kris. The fact that he also knew all the high-level security codes, made it easy for them to disable the locking mechanism on the hatch. They climbed all the way down to level 26, where Major Carter's currently empty lab was located. Once inside, they'd closed the door.

Jack had somehow temporarily disabled the security cameras, for this portion of the base. When she had asked him how he'd accomplished such a feat, he'd quipped.

"Tricks of me trade, me darlin, trick of me trade," with a passable Irish brogue.

Kris noted, that despite the long climb and his recent injury, Jack was not the least bit winded. Unlike herself, who was panting and sweating, from the more than two hours of exertion. He quickly booted up the Major's laptop, hacking into her private files like pro.

The man really kept a great many talents secret, publicly hiding his true nature behind a dense façade. Kris had realized early on that he was bright; but over the last few days, she had found out, Jack O'Neill was way smarter, than even she had suspected. In fact, she would have to reclassify him as brilliant.

Still, she was unclear as to just why, he kept so many talents hidden, from so many, especially his team. Looking over his shoulder. Kris was further amazed, as he proficiently traced the Internet activities of the NCIS, over the last two weeks.

Jack printed out e-mailings, both to and from, the NCIS for later study. Then he e-mailed Agent Malcolm Barrett, at the man's private e-mail address, signing his missive "Hutch." Prior to logging out, he erased all his activities, deleting the files and Internet connections expertly.

"It's 0300, time to high tail it back up top, head home and call in sick for the day." He informed her looking at his watch.

"Poor inept O'Neill took another fall, once again injuring his arm. Looks like old Doc Frazier needs to make a house call." He added slyly.

***

Three and a half hours later, Dr. Janet Frazier was paged overhead for an urgent call. She was just arriving for duty, so had not as yet made it to the infirmary. She took the call just outside the VIP suite, where Gibbs had set up his temporary office.

Speaking in a stage whisper, Janet inquired.

"This is Doctor Frazier, who is this?"

Listening briefly she continued, "How badly is he hurt Captain Martin...? I see. Keep him immobile till I get there... I don't care what he says... threaten him with the extra large needle, that will keep him quiet." Hanging up, she turned to the SF stationed there.

"Please inform the General, that Colonel O'Neill has apparently slipped in the shower, aggravating his injuries."

"Ma'am, yes Ma'am." The SF responded smartly.

"I'm going to collect my bag, then head to the Colonel's house to examine him." Turning on her heels, she made her way to the infirmary, hoping she had spoken loudly enough to give Agent Gibbs an earful.

***

Samantha Carter was startled, when just as she was leaving to meet him at his NID office, Agent Malcolm Barrett turned up at her Hotel. Smiling, Barrett informed her he had a car waiting, ushering her to a black SUV waiting at the curb.

Once they were underway, he handed her an e-mail printout.

"I received this on my private e-mail this morning." He informed her without inflection.

Sam read the page quickly, noting it was supposedly from someone calling himself Hutch. It instructed Barrett to "meet Major Carter away from NID headquarters, someplace secure." Further it demanded he "Listen up and help the Lady."

Sam smiled, handing the paper back to Barrett.

"Do you know who sent it?" Sam knew, but she was playing this close to the vest.

"I have my suspicions."

"What I do not understand is just how my secure and private Internet address, was accessed." He added, with chagrin. "So Lady, just exactly what is this all about?"

Sam filled him quickly, noting he said little, asking few questions till she was done.

Sighing, Malcolm wondered just what he was getting himself into now.

"Alright Major, I agree with O'Neill. Lets see just what we can dig up on Kinsey."

***

Daniel Jackson felt out of place. He really was not the type to frequent this kind of establishment. But, the disguise he was currently wearing, made him look the part. Who knew Teal'c was such an artist?

He'd given Daniel several Gothic type tattoos, with an indelible marker, early this morning. It took the better part of an hour, but Daniel now sported a large dragon over the left side of his neck.

Teal'c had also drawn in a few other surprises on his torso. Just in case Daniel did "indeed follow O'Neill's request", that he use every avenue to get close to Abbey Sciuto. Daniel was not about to employ seduction. He had his principles. He had integrity. Jack knew better, didn't he? Just because Jack O'Neill had a chameleon's ability to become someone else, did not mean Daniel Jackson, Doctor of Archeology and Linguistics, would do the same!

None the less, here he was, pulling at the ridiculous dog collar Jack had insisted he wear. Dressed in beat up jeans, a sleeveless black tee shirt, with his nails painted black, sporting a fake eyebrow piercing. Well actually, he thought, the eyebrow thing looked 'wickedly real.' Waiting at this weird excuse for a coffee shop, for Abbey to make an appearance. According to Jack's Intel, she frequented the place everyday, prior to heading into work at the NCIS. Daniel had ordered coffee, and then sat quietly near the door, taking in the clientele.

Nearly everyone here, except the wizened old gent who ran the place, was attired in some form of Gothic wear or another. Relaxing, once he'd downed a couple of cups of the man's surprisingly wonderful coffee, he spied Abbey as she strolled through the door. She was cute he thought. The photo Jack had shown him really did not do her justice.

Daniel, as an Archeologist, was accustomed to many different, often strange forms of dress. So despite his own discomfort wearing the Gothic style, he found it somehow alluring on Abbey. He'd been informed that the young woman was, in Jack's opinion, the straightforward type.

"Just hit on her directly, Danny boy. Her type admires that kind of approach." Jack had instructed him.

Still wondering, just exactly where Jack had gotten his information, Daniel approached her, as she waited patiently for her order.

"Hi, I was admiring your body art. Cool web." He said, indicating the overly large spider's web tattoo she had on her neck.

Turning to look him over, Abbey smiled. Taking in the 'cute dude' in front of her, noting his dragon tattoo, she replied.

"Thanks, that's a pretty awesome tatt you've got yourself." Offering him her hand, she introduced herself. "I'm Abbey. Do you have a table?"

Amazed that Jack had been right on, Daniel smiled, nodding toward his table near the door. "Yeah, I do. Does that mean you'll join me?"

"Depends..." Noting his confusion she elaborated. "That is, if you are asking. And if, you'll tell me your name."

"Yes I'm asking. My name is Jack Daniels."

Escorting her to his table, he tried not to feel like a total idiot.

Jack had picked his cover name. Insisting that a twist of his real name, was not only easier to remember, but would allow him to feel less of a liar. Jack really could be 'such an ass,' Daniel thought. Oddly, it seemed to be working. He felt eerily comfortable with the alias. Maybe this wouldn't be so difficult after all.

"So Abbey, what exactly do you do to keep busy?"

Laughing lightly over his name, wondering if he'd changed it to flaunt convention, she replied. "I'm a forensic specialist."

"Hey, we have a lot in common. I specialize in ancient history. Currently, I'm on loan to the Natural History Museum, studying some new artifacts." Noting her interest, he continued.

"Mummies..."

"Cool!" She interrupted him.

"I mean, that is something I've always had an interest in."

"Really?" Daniel responded, leaning toward her earnestly.

"I'd love to show you my research. I've got loads of photos..." He let the sentence drop off, allowing a hint of innuendo to invade his tone.

Abbey found his straightforward approach very sexy. He may as well have invited her up to see his etchings! An added bonus was that this man was also very good looking. There was something boyish, yet dangerous, in his crooked smile and the big blue eyes, behind those wire rims. Obviously he was also intelligent, and she could see from his physique, he was quite fit.

In essence, he was everything she was looking for in a man.

"I'd like very much to share your passion with you, Jack Daniels." She whispered to him huskily, leaning in to emphasize her point.

"But, right now I have to get to work."

Noting his disappointed frown, she added, "Why not walk me there? It's only two blocks from here.'

"Then if you'd like, we can get together for supper. I know this cool place up town."

Daniel found himself responding with genuine interest. This woman was enigmatic and sexy. She was also, smart and quick. He found himself looking forward to getting to know her.

"I'd like that very much Abbey." He agreed, rising to take her hand. Feeling the need to interject some honesty he added.

"My friends call me Danny."

Abbey seemingly unaffected by this revelation, led the way, as they talked about their mutual interests. Once they'd reached the NCIS building, she promised to meet him for dinner. Daniel returned to his hotel, wondering if Sam and Teal'c had had similar success in their appointed roles in this operation.

***

Teal'c was not enjoying his role in O'Neill's strategy quite as much. He had been assigned the alias of a morgue assistant. Somehow, O'Neill had ascertained that the Medical Examiner's regular assistant was on holiday, for the next several days. Seems, the man had won an all expense paid trip to Vegas. One he had to take advantage of immediately, or lose. Teal'c smiled to himself, as he once again admired O'Neill's ingenuity. His brother warrior hid many talents from the world. But, Teal'c had long ago realized a great many of them.

His papers identified him as one Murray Johnson, Medical Technician. He wore a black wig, cut to hide his golden tattoo from prying eyes. The added addition of a surgical cap completely obscured the emblem. During the briefing in the isolation room, O'Neill had instructed Teal'c to just be himself. Use his natural observation skills and "soak up" any information that the talkative Dr. "Ducky" Mallard, put forth. His previous experiences as First Prime had exposed him to the handling of the dead, many times before. But, it was not a role Teal'c relished.

The day past slowly for him, until the arrival of the small dark haired woman, he recognized from the photo O'Neill had given Daniel Jackson.

Abbey was anxious to fill Ducky in, on her new acquaintance Jack Daniels, a historian she'd met that morning at the coffee shop. She chatted animatedly with the Doctor for sometime, before she caught sight of the big Jaffa, standing quietly in the background.

"Oh hello." She smiled brightly at him.

"I'm Abbey."

"Excuse my lack of gentility, Abbey my dear." Ducky said in his lilting British accent.

"This is my temporary assistant, Murray. Murray, this is Abbey."

Moving forward out of the shadows, Teal'c bowed politely to the young woman.

"I am most happy to make your acquaintance Abbey."

Abbey found the man's formal manners intriguing.

"You are definitely not from around here are you?"

"Indeed, I am not." Teal'c agreed.

"But, I adopted your homeland as my own sometime ago."

"A most welcome addition to the United States, I assure you Abbey." Ducky stated smiling, patting Teal'c on the back.

"Murray is a most polite and interested listener. Doesn't wear a set of headphones to drown out my ramblings." He added dryly.

Noting Murray's confused frown, Abbey elaborated.

"Ducky's usual assistant wears a set of headphones, listening to sports while they work. Ducky finds it irritating."

"Indeed." Teal'c responded with a thoughtful frown.

"Is that not most disrespectful?"

Laughing, Ducky replied, "My thoughts exactly Murray. You and I shall get along famously."

Turning to Abbey he inquired.

"Anything new from Gibbs today?"

"Murray" moved slightly away, keeping busy with arranging instruments, feigning disinterest.

Evidently the two found no reason to distrust him, as Abbey relayed the answer to Ducky's query.

"It would seem that Colonel O'Neill isn't the total burn out Kate suspects. He evidently recognized the composite we faxed over, a fact he neglected to mention at the time. The guy was working at the SGC on the night cleaning detail. But, he went missing just about the time O'Neill became involved in the case. Gibbs was quite irritated." Abbey stated wryly.

"However, the Colonel won't be available to annoy Gibbs for a day or two. He slipped in the shower and took a fall this morning."

"That should make Jethro very happy. He so hates explaining himself." Ducky smiled affectionately.

"I think the good Colonel is a dark horse. Jethro would do well to keep a close eye on him." He informed her sagely.

"Reminds me of an Officer I knew back in sixty nine..." He went on for sometime about the unfortunate man, who'd gone berserk, killing his entire squadron in a fit of posttraumatic stress.

Finally, he asked Abbey about her search for the match on the partial fingerprint, taken from the Pharmaceuticals company lab.

Abbey then went on to explain, that the computer software, was running over a billion prints and it could still take quite some time.

Eventually, Abbey returned to her lab. It took only a word or two from Murray to get the talkative Doctor to fill him in, regarding the case of the murdered young Airman. Unfortunately, none of this information was new to Teal'c.

***

Meanwhile Jack O'Neill had not been idly lying about. Nor was he planning to "take it easy" as Janet insisted, when she made her mock house call. As soon as she left, returning to the base, to cover his absence and fully brief General Hammond, he and Kris, quietly took the back way out of his home.

Cutting through his neighbor's backyard, they hopped into a cab heading to the Airport.

Once they were airborne, General Hammond had assured him by phone, that Agent Gibbs was accepting their little drama. He'd cornered Janet just as she'd return from Jack's home, demanding an explanation. Janet had lied beautifully, George had said. In fact, he was of the opinion, that the good Doctor was just too adept in the lying department, for her own good. Jack had privately known all about Janet's talent, for sometime. She had covered for him on more than one occasion. A fact for which, he would be forever grateful.

***

At 1700 Mr. and Mrs. J. Martinson checked into the Plaza Hotel in Washington D.C. They were shown to the honeymoon suite, on the top floor over looking the city below. Mrs. Martinson immediately sank down wearily onto the luxurious king sized bed with a sigh.

Winking suggestively, Mr. Martinson tipped the bellman handsomely, applying the do not disturb sign to the door, closing it firmly.

Mrs. Martinson then called room service and ordered them a meal, with instructions that they "leave the cart just outside the door." While Mr. Martinson opened his luggage, pulling out his .9mm Beretta, checking to make sure the safety was still on.

"So Mrs. Martinson, what shall we do now?" Jack cracked with a lewd smile.

"Oh I don't know, Mr. Martinson. Maybe you could start by reapplying your sling." She groused.

"Then keep your promise to fill me in, as to just why we had to sneak out of the Springs and fly to Washington." She continued, assisting him in reapplying the much-needed sling, to his left arm.

Noting his frown of discomfort, she added lightly.

"Or we could fulfill the requirements of a honeymoon suite." Wiggling her eyebrows suggestively, hoping to make him laugh.

Lord he loved bantering with this woman, he thought.

"Never let me get away with anything do you Kris." He laughed.

"Alright, we are here to watch SG-1 six." He added with gravity.

"Also, to play out a hunch I have as to just where we'll find that missing lab assistant."

Jack had just booted up his laptop, preparing to "surf the web" for clues, when his cell phone rang.

Recognizing the number of the caller, on the caller I.D. display, he answered crisply, "O'Neill."

He listened intently for several minutes without comment, glancing at Kris, he added a terse.

"Understood, keep me informed please, Sir."

His cold, empty, special ops mask was back in place, making Kris shiver.

***

Daniel was having a great time. The "cool" place Abbey had suggested turned out to be a nice authentic Indian restaurant. He found the spicy food and intelligent conversation, exhilarating. But, he'd gleaned little, regarding the investigation NCIS was conducting. However, Abbey had offered him a tour of her lab in the morning. Maybe he'd be able to learn something then.

He'd been about to pay the bill, when he caught a glimpse of an oddly familiar face, in the shadows, at the back of the dimly lit establishment.

Making an excuse, about needing the facilities, he made his way toward the spot he'd last seen the figure. Only to find the area deserted.

Using this opportunity to check in with Sam, he neglected to mention the possible sighting. Unsure if he'd actually seen whom he thought he had, he returned to Abbey, a bemused smile on his face. He was spending way too much time with Jack, he thought.

***

Samantha Carter had met Teal'c at 2030, in the Hotel lobby, for a quick supper, in the dining room. They exchanged the events of their day in a hushed whisper. Neither was satisfied with the small amounts of progress, made so far in Operation Inept Colonel, each hoping Daniel was having more success.

Lingering over the meal, they were just about to return to their rooms, calling it a night, when Teal'c spotted a familiar figure drifting across the lobby. Using hand signals, he indicated his observation to Major Carter. They quickly returned to her room, discovering a worried Kris Martin waiting for them.

"I know we are not suppose to have any contact, but I'm worried." She explained, before either could make an inquiry.

"Jack has gone off by himself. Normally I don't suppose I'd be so concerned. Except, he is still not fully recovered. I doubt he'd admit it, but he still tires easily. On top of which, he has very little strength in the fingers of his left hand. I insisted he contact you two before he went off half-cocked. But, as you are aware he can be very stubborn."

"Indeed Captain Martin, where has O'Neill gone?" Teal'c inquired, his own worry clouding his normal reserve.

"To be honest, I'm not sure Teal'c." She said with a sigh.

"Just after we checked into our Hotel, he received a call from General Hammond. They had a very short and terse, conversation. One which he refused to fill me in on fully. He said it was a 'need to know' type call."

Noting the Major's expression she went on.

"I know what you are thinking Major. But it was more than a clearance issue. He went into that full blown special ops mode of his, sat down without another word and started surfing the web."

Incredulous Sam interrupted her. "He surfed the web Captain?"

Major Sam Carter had never known her Colonel to willingly use a computer, let alone surf the web.

Nodding ironically, Kris continued.

"After an hour of searching, he abruptly stood up, grabbed his gear, said something about Daniel being followed, told me to stay put and left. Maybe this will shed some light on things." She added, handing Sam a computer printout.

"Jack intercepted it on one of the web sites he said the rouge NID used, to relay directions to they're various 'cells.' He called it an Easter egg."

"An Easter egg?" Sam Carter asked with surprise.

"I'm surprised he would know the term, let alone how to access one."

Noting Kris's confused expression, she elaborated.

"It's a message hidden within a message, or program."

Kris shrugged, turning her attention to the printout in question.

"What do you think it means?"

The printout was rather cryptic. It read, "Book Boy spotted snooping around D.C. Watch dog, out of the picture. No sign of other escort. Extreme prejudice warranted."

Teal'c and Sam exchanged concerned glances.

"How long has the Colonel been gone?" Sam asked Kris.

"He left right after he found this, around 1840." Kris replied crisply.

"I waited at the Hotel as instructed, until 2130, when he was suppose to check in with me. But, he failed to call, so I tried his cell phone with no luck. Then I headed over here to you."

"Is the Colonel armed?"

Sam was already coolly checking her own weapon. 'The Colonel was always punctual, something had happened.'

"Yes, he has his Berretta, a small gun in his right boot and a wicked looking knife, in the waistband of his trousers." Kris informed them, with a shudder.

Despite her trust in SG-1, their cool acceptance of danger, took some getting used to. She was after all a nurse, not a warrior.

"Go back to your Hotel in case the Colonel returns, or tries to contact you." Major Carter ordered her, attempting to call Daniel on his cell phone. Swearing softly, under her breath, when she received no response.

"We'll go look for Daniel and the Colonel. Dr. Jackson checked in with me at 2000. He and Abbey, were eating at a restaurant called the Magic Flute"

"Alright, call me as soon as you find them Major."

Kris requested, not in the least bit embarrassed, about revealing her deep concern.

"Jack is special ya know?"

"He is that, Captain." Sam Carter agreed, with a sympathetic smile.

Sam knew all too well just exactly how special Jack O'Neill really was.

"Indeed." Teal'c bowed slightly to Kris.

"We shall not allow O'Neill to come to more harm Captain." Despite his benign expression, the big Jaffa appeared quite menacing. Somehow Kris believed him.

***

Jack had followed Daniel, ever since he'd left his Hotel to meet Abbey for supper. He'd caught a glimpse of a dark figure tailing them, as soon as they'd left Abbey's building. The guy was good, but he was no Jack O'Neill. Despite the sling on his left arm, Jack was still as agile as a cat. He kept a discreet distance, tailing Danny's tail, without detection, grateful it was a moonless night. The lights from the city really lit things up, a bit, too much for his taste, as it made his efforts to maintain stealth more difficult.

Jack concentrated on tapping into his dark side, searching for the cold-blooded special ops operative he'd once been.

The General's call had been disturbing. Using code, he'd updated Jack on the most recent events, back at the SGC.

Evidently, Agent Gibbs was the cautious type. He and KateTodd had gone out to O'Neill's home, not long after his encounter with Janet, to "check in" with his liaison. Knocking on the front door, he'd heard music coming from the inside. When repeated attempts, to summon someone to the door, had failed, Gibbs became concerned. After all, the Colonel was injured. Perhaps he'd come to more harm. Checking all the doors and windows, he'd found one "unlocked" and eased himself in. Unfortunately, no one was at home.

Curious, Agents Gibbs and Todd, combed the abode, finding nothing but a radio playing in the bedroom. Moving outside, to continue the search, they checked the two vehicles in the driveway. The large black truck belonging to the Colonel had two flat tires, but the Jeep registered to the Captain was unlocked and appeared intact. Kate opened the door to the Jeep, finding a note on the front seat addressed to O'Neill.

Picking the note up with a gloved hand, she then walked back toward the truck Gibbs was investigating, carefully opening the envelope while she moved. It read, "GOODBYE, O'NEILL! KABOOM!" Screaming a warning to her boss, Kate threw herself forward, just as the Jeep exploded. Gibbs was thrown back from the concussion, slamming into the hard concrete of the driveway.

According to the General, neither Agents was seriously injured. But, Gibbs was more than a little put out. He was demanding explanations. The General had so far kept him in the dark, but once Gibbs's superiors reached the President, Hammond would be obliged to fill him in fully.

Hammond had already handled things with the local Police department. Jack had listened intently, but had asked no questions. Hammond realized, that as usual, Jack O'Neill was not in the least bit surprised at this turn of events.

Trusting that his most experienced officer, was fully capable of taking things from here, he none the less had cautioned.

"Colonel, watch your six. This just got more complicated."

Knowing the General would wait for him to make further contact, Jack turned his cell phone to vibrate, just in case Kris got nervous and tried to call him. The last thing he needed was a ringing cell phone in his pocket, when he was trying to be invisible. Jack glanced at his illuminated watch noting it was 2133. He was supposed to check in with Kris at 2130. Feeling the familiar tingle of the cell phone in his hip pocket, he smiled. Kris was as impatient as he was sometimes. He was reaching for his phone, when he spotted Daniel and Abbey, leaving the restaurant. Kris would have to wait, he thought. I don't want Daniel to overhear my voice, spotting me on his six. The kid would be annoyed enough when he did find out. Despite the fact that Daniel was more than capable of looking after himself, Jack still worried over him like a big brother. After all, when he'd first met Daniel, the kid had been such a geek!

O'Neill easily found Daniel's stalker, carefully leaning against a wall half a block up. Keeping to the shadows, Jack followed Daniel and Abbey, with his eyes. They seemed to be totally focused on each other's company and therefore, paying little attention to their surroundings. 'Damn it Daniel,' Jack thought, I taught you better than this! Look around you kid!

Just as the couple passed a darkened alleyway, two dark clad men pulled them roughly inside the alley and out of sight.

As Jack rushed forward, still veiled in shadows, the stalker ran across the street, as a large black van raced out of the alley, halting briefly to allow him to hop into the cab. It then sped off, leaving a very frustrated and concerned, Jack O'Neill behind.

***

Kris, Teal'c and Sam, got no farther than the Hotel lobby. As they exited the elevator in a rush, Jack was just coming in the Hotel's front door, his expression was cold, his eyes empty. Taking in the trio, he turned his dark gaze upon Kris.

Cocking his head to one side, he whispered harshly.

"Just what about my order to stay put, did you not understand, Captain?"

Straightening into a correct military posture, Kris responded quietly.

"Sorry Colonel, but when I couldn't reach you by cell I got nervous. I thought it would be a good idea to bring the Major and Teal'c, up to speed, Sir."

Kris hoped she didn't sound as spooked as she felt. This was a Jack O'Neill she'd had little exposure to. The hard edge to his voice and that cold expression, made her feel decidedly uneasy.

Using hand signals he gestured for silence, turning on his heels he led them outside, to an awaiting dark SUV. Indicating Teal'c should take the wheel he jumped into the front passenger seat, leaving the two women to take the back.

Once they were all seated, Jack again addressed Kris.

"While you were busy running around playing Chicken Little, I went back to our Hotel to fill you in."

He told her in the same hard tone.

"I figured this is where you'd run to."

Pointing to a small black computer case on the backseat, he addressed the Major.

"Carter, make yourself useful with that thing will ya? Now, while Carter boots up that doohickey, I'll fill you all in on recent events."

Sam Carter opened the case and booted up the enclosed laptop. As she did so, the Colonel informed them of Daniel's abduction.

As Jack coldly relayed the events of the evening, Kris was unable to contain herself, she gasped in dismay.

"Oh my God!"

Jack cast a look her way, softening his tone.

"Captain, I realize this is your first mission of this kind. But, when I give you an order, I expect it to be obeyed to the letter. There is always a reason for my orders. See I'm a Colonel and I don't have to explain them. Am I making myself clear?"

"Crystal, Sir." Kris responded.

His more forgiving tone reassuring her that she was no longer in it deep. "It will not happen again, Colonel."

"Good. Carter, pull up the program labeled tracking device."

O'Neill continued, dismissing the subject.

"Lets get back to the business at hand. I placed a small tracking device in Daniel's disguise. Carter, got that program going?"

"Yes, Colonel." Sam confirmed.

"Teal'c, head southeast, make a left at the next intersection."

Kris seemed to be the only one who was surprised by O'Neill's revelation. He had seen to everything quite nicely.

Looking up, she caught his eye in the rearview mirror, affixed to the visor in front of him. Catching her eyes, he arched a brow ironically at her, as if to say, "After all we've been through recently, you still doubt my abilities."

Kris looked down at her lap embarrassed that she had doubted him. Looking back up, she noted his eyes still boring into hers. Suddenly he winked. Kris breathed a sigh of relief, the Jack she knew was still there somewhere. He was still her Hard Candy Colonel. She should have known better.

They had been traveling for about twenty minutes, following the directional signal of the tracking device. Other than directions, they had made little conversation, each lost in their own thoughts.

"O'Neill we are being followed." Teal'c informed him calmly.

"That would be our friend, Agent Barrett." Jack responded with equal calm, dialing a number into his cell phone.

"Carter, how are we doing with that tracking?"

"Dead on so far, Sir. They are headed out of the city. Bearing southwest." Sam reported, keeping her eyes glued to the laptop screen.

Jack had evidently made a connection and began speaking into his cell phone quietly.

"Barrett? O'Neill here, how many men have you got back there...Good, keep on our six, we are going to need backup. Oh and Barrett take a look behind you, you are being followed."

He listened briefly.

"Well, lets just say I was expecting you." Snapping his cell shut, Jack advised the others on the exchange.

"He seems a bit surprised he has been made. That should be Agent DiNozzo on his tail."

"DiNozzo, Sir?" Sam piped up.

"How did the NCIS... ?"

"I called him Carter. There have been a few developments since we last met." He replied, archly.

"Barrett has called in the Calvary; he's got two other vehicles on route. That should give us another seven or eight men. Hopefully we'll find Danny, before they can do any real damage."

Kris's concern was increasing with the mileage. It wasn't that she did not trust in Jack, Teal'c and Sam. She fully believed they would save the day in the end. No, it was what might happen in between, that had her spooked.

Unable to contain her worries any further, she questioned.

"Who are they, Colonel? What do they want with Dr. Jackson, Sir?"

Realizing that Kris was voicing his own fears, Jack responded curtly.

"I suspect they are associates of whoever is behind all this. Most likely, they want to know just how much we know. Until they get the information they want out of him, they won't kill Daniel."

Lowering his voice, so that only Teal'c could hear him, he added.

"At least I hope not."

"What about Abbey?" Kris asked.

Jack's bleak stare in the rearview mirror, answered her without words. Oh lord, she prayed quietly, watch over them.

***

Abbey cradled Danny's bloodied head in her lap, wondering if they had stumbled into the Twilight Zone.

'Some date,' she thought. A few drinks, dinner, nice conversation and abduction. Two huge men dressed head to toe in black, had jumped them, just as they had passed an alleyway.

Sporting guns, they had pushed the couple toward a waiting black van.

Danny had protested, attempting to reason with the larger of the two. Snarling, the man had struck Danny in the head with his pistol, knocking him senseless to the pavement.

The two bullies had then pushed Abbey into the Van, throwing a limp Danny in after her. The bigger of the two had climbed into the back with them, shoving Abbey to the floor and into Danny's unconscious form. As the vehicle lurched forward, he turned on the overhead dome light, covering Abbey with his pistol.

Shooting the big bully a contemptuous glare, Abbey examined Danny in the weak light. He had a large gash over his left eye, which was bleeding profusely. Fishing in her purse for something to staunch the bleeding, she found a fresh packet of Kleenex.

Appling pressure to the wound, she demanded to know just why they had been abducted.

"Shut up bitch!" The burly figure ordered, with malice.

Undaunted, Abbey chastised the behemoth.

"Oh nice, do you kiss your Mother with that mouth?"

"One more word and I'll put a bullet in you." He warned her.

"We don't need you anyway. The Boss just wants the 'Book Boy' there, you are expendable."

"Really?" Abbey wondered if this guy was as stupid as he looked. "You mean to tell me he likes boys?"

"Ha! Lets see how smart you are once the Boss gets hold of you." He smiled with glee.

"You'll be begging for a bullet, before he is through with you."

"I thought you said he only liked boys?" Abbey taunted him.

"Yeah, well maybe he'll let me play with you a while, before we kill you and your boyfriend there. I'd like that, yeah, I'd like that a whole lot." He said running his free hand over her jaw.

Jerking her head away from the offending caress, Abbey rolled her eyes in disgust. 'Gad,' she thought, 'it's not the Twilight zone after all, it's a James Bond novel!'

Clutching Danny's inert form more closely to her bosom, she decided to keep silent, trying to figure out just where the Van was headed. As there where no windows, she started counting turns. Perhaps, she could guess the distance and maybe, the general direction they might be going.

One thing for sure, Danny was more than a historian. She doubted these guys wanted him to lead them to King Tut's tomb.

After about an hour, the bleeding from Danny's head wound had stopped, thanks to Abbey's attention. But, he was still unconscious.

Noting the bleeding had ceased, the big bully guarding them, had pushed them together and bound them securely, with plastic restraints. Working for the NCIS, she had seen similar restraints used by the military. This was becoming quite a puzzle, she thought. How does a mild mannered, bookish fellow, like Danny factor in?

After a while, Abbey realized she had lost track, of the many turns the Van had taken. Exhausted, she rested her head against Danny's shoulder. Soon she was drifting off to sleep, hoping when she awoke, the nightmare would be over.

***

Back at the SGC, Agent Gibbs had just been released from the infirmary. The little volcano of a Doctor, had finally agreed he was not seriously injured. O'Neill hadn't mislead him about one thing; the Doc was little, but very feisty.

He'd received a call from DiNozzo, filling him in on the events back in Washington D.C.

Storming into the General's office, glaring at Hammond, he challenged.

"Just what else has your Colonel neglected to fill me in on? I just got off the phone with my people in Washington. It would seem, they received a call from O'Neill. A very cryptic call, instructing them to meet him at a Hotel and tail him, armed to the teeth."

"Agent Gibbs, I have not heard from Colonel O'Neill since 1745 this evening."

The General could be equally irascible when challenged.

"At which time, I was filling him in on your little escapade at his home. Events, I might add, in which you had no business being involved." Visibly making an effort to calm himself, the General lowered his voice.

"Look Gibbs, I gave Colonel O'Neill full authority to carry on his investigation."

Noting the tight expression of the other man he continued. "Frankly, if you had been more forthcoming, we would have been more inclined to be up front with you. I do not expect to hear from O'Neill until he has more to report. He is a seasoned Officer and is more than capable, of handling anything that comes his way. We will just have to bide our time."

Dismissing the man, George Hammond ran a weary hand over his face. He would never let on, but he was worried. He realized and not for the first time, that if he still had hair, it would be as silver as O'Neill's by now. 'Ironically, the Colonel by himself, would have produced most of those gray hairs,' he thought with a smile. Glancing at the clock he noted it was 2400. Closing his eyes he tried to get comfortable in his big chair, settling back to wait.

***

Abbey awoke slowly, realizing she was still tightly bound and resting on Danny's shoulder. It was pitch black and the Van had stopped moving. Listening intently, she could hear only her own breathing and that, of the man beside her. Assuming he was still unconscious, she was startled when he spoke to her, his quiet voice sounding loud in the silence.

"I'm sorry I got you involved in this, Abbey." Daniel informed her, regret lacing his voice.

"Actually, I am sorry about a few things."

"Just exactly what have you gotten me involved in Danny? It is Danny, or is that a falsehood as well?"

She whispered acidly, still resting her head on his shoulder.

"No, that is yes, my name is Danny, Dr. Daniel Jackson. I'm sorry I had to lie to you Abbey. Did they hurt you?" He whispered.

"Not yet. But, there have been threats."

Cutting him no slack, she continued her questioning.

"So, we have established you lied about your name. I assume you are the Dr. Daniel Jackson of the SGC. The same Daniel Jackson who is supposed to be suffering from scarlet fever, in Colorado."

"That would be me." He replied softly.

Wincing with a gasp, when she shifted her position bumping him. 'Gad his head hurt.'

"Sorry, how bad is it Danny?" Abbey inquired, with concern.

"I think at the very least you've got a concussion."

Despite the fact he had lied to her, obviously using her to glean information, she liked him. Liked him a lot. He reminded her of Gibbs, in a milder, more boyish way. Jethro had always been a favorite of hers.

"Yes, I recognize the signs." Daniel responded wryly.

"Unfortunately, I'm afraid I am in for a lot worse. Abbey, no matter what they do to me, say nothing." He added urgently.

"So, you want me to just sit back, let them do God knows what to you and not say a thing?"

Abbey was incredulous. 'This could not be happening! He was so calm. This was not the Twilight Zone, definitely a James Bond novel.'

"Well, just exactly what do you know anyway?" He asked in a matter of fact tone.

"Only that I am a Historian, which by the way I am technically and we just met. As this was our first date, we hardly know each other."

"In other words, that is all you are going to tell me. Just your real name." She replied with amazement.

"It is for the best. The less you know, the less you can tell. Maybe they will let you go." He said, in a reasonable tone.

Understanding he was trying to reassure and protect her, she was none the less annoyed at his naiveté.

"Get real! We both know I'm expendable." She snorted.

"The big behemoth that nailed you already made that very clear." Hearing his indrawn breath, she continued. "Don't even try to convince me otherwise, I wasn't born yesterday. I think we should come up with some false information to feed them."

The head injury was making him a bit fuzzy, Daniel realized. "O.K. Exactly why would we do that?"

"To buy time, that's why." Realizing he must be a bit addled by the head trauma, Abbey laid out her plan.

"Look, I know you are not alone here. Whoever your backup is has to be looking for you by now, right?"

Feeling his nod, she continued.

"So, we buy time. Hopefully, help will arrive before they get impatient and kill us."

"Jack would like you Abbey. He'd like you a lot." Daniel replied with genuine admiration. She was cool under fire, reminding him of his friend and C.O.

"I assume that is a compliment?" She replied with a smile in her voice. So, Ducky was right. The Colonel was much more than he let on. "So, spill."

"Alright, we don't have much time, so we paraphrase the truth. I've noticed it seems to work."

Daniel set about to feed her the false information. Lacing the story with just enough truth, to keep their captures interested.

***

The Colonel was indeed more than he let on, much more. Agent Barrett couldn't help but admire his tactics. Once he was aware he would have to involve the NCIS fully, he had actually given them an invitation. Damn, but the man was cool under fire. Glad he was on the Colonel's side, he dialed the cell number Major Carter had given him earlier.

Sam Carter's cell phone started ringing. Momentarily taking her eyes off the tracking signal on the laptop, she picked it up.

"Carter." Listening briefly, she handed the phone to the Colonel. "It's Agent Barrett, Sir."

Jack took the phone, placing it to his ear and barked, "O'Neill. What is it Barrett?"

His arm was throbbing like a conga line and he was worried about Daniel and his tattooed lady. He was in short, in no mood to answer questions right now.

"I realize we have been driving for four hours Barrett."

Listening to the Agent prattle on, he gave off a disgusted snort. Handing the phone back to Carter, he instructed her curtly to. "Fill Barrett in."

O'Neill closed his eyes trying to ignore the pain in his arm, while he worked out his next move.

The signal had finally stopped. They now had a fix on Daniel's position, provided he was still wearing the fake eyebrow piercing, containing the tracking device.

Unfortunately, Carter had estimated they were still about forty-five minutes away. He had his abbreviated team, DiNozzo, with his backup, Barrett and four other NID operatives. He knew it was up to him to work out a reasonable plan of attack. 'Actually,' he thought dryly, 'I needed several plans. Plan A rarely works.'

Kris had said not one word in the last four hours, instead she had been watching the Colonel closely. Knowing he was hurting, but would never admit it, she silently passed a bottle of water and two extra strength aspirin, forward to him.

Opening his eyes, he caught hers once more in the mirror, affixed to the visor in front of him. A slight nod was his only acknowledgement, as he downed the pills. Then he closed his eyes once more, while Kris continued her silent worry.

***

Hearing distant footsteps, Daniel concluded his fabricated story. They hadn't had much time to go over a plan, but Abbey was smart and he hoped, as tough as she seemed.

The back door of the Van was thrown opened, blinding the two captives with sudden light. They were roughly pulled out of the van, Abbey falling to the hard cement floor.

It took a few moments for Abbey's eyes to focus in the glare. When they did, she wished she were still unable to see.

The Van was parked inside a large warehouse or factory. The two men, who had abducted them, had been joined by two more. While the big ugly behemoth dragged her up, the other three had torn Daniel's shirt away, baring him to the waist, removing his restraints briefly.

Applying leather restraints to both his wrists, the kind she had seen used in movies like Cuckoo's Nest, they hoisted him up by his wrists. Quickly securing the leather over a large pipe, that ran the length of the building, leaving him dangling several feet above the floor.

Abbey was likewise restrained. However, she was secured to a large center pole, her feet still firmly on the ground. Trying her bonds she found they were very secure. She watched in helpless dismay, as the men pushed a large wooden tub beneath Daniel. The big bully, who had so enjoyed threatening her, informing Daniel, that it was to catch all the blood he was likely to lose. The bastard laughingly struck Daniel, on left side of his ribcage, repeatedly, with the butt of his gun.

Daniel clenched his teeth to keep from crying out, he had endured torture before. He wouldn't give them the satisfaction.

Seven years of exposure to the stoic bravado of Jack O'Neill, had helped make him into a tough customer. Much tougher than anyone who did not know him, would give him credit for.

Looking over at Abbey, he noted she too was feigning disinterest. Good girl, he thought.

Another man entered his line of vision. This man's face he knew; it was the face of the missing man from the composite. Jack had recognized him and so had Daniel. In fact, Daniel had engaged this man in polite conversation on at least one occasion, while he was visiting the murdered Airman, on the night he had died. Daniel had come to visit his friend Captain Zack Smith, just after he had driven Jack home, returning later to the SGC. It had been quite late, but Daniel knew Zack was a night owl, just like him. They had chatted awhile, until Zack had appeared sleepy.

On his way out, Daniel had bumped head on into one of the night cleaning crew; the same man who stood before him now, looking up at him with such self satisfied amusement.

"So Dr. Jackson, we meet again." He looked up at Daniel.

"I had hoped to spare you all this. After all, O'Neill was the actual target. You seem like such a decent fellow, I really hate having to kill you."

"Sergeant Sullivan." Daniel stuttered weakly, keeping his expression carefully confused. "What is all this about? Why aren't you at the SGC?"

"Come on Jackson, do you really think I'm that stupid?" He replied, with just a hint of uncertainty.

Staring up at Jackson, he noticed that the injured man's eyes were unfocused.

Turning to address his henchmen, he demanded, "Just how hard did you hit him, Bates?"

The big behemoth responded defensively, a hint of fear in his voice. "I didn't hit him so very hard boss. The guy is a pansy!"

"He is a lot tougher than you are, Bates." Sullivan snorted.

"You had better hope you didn't damage him too much. I need some information."

Daniel, realizing he had an opportunity, pretended to pass out.

Bates, poked him sharply in the gut, but got no response. "Get some water to douse him with. He is no good to us unconscious!"

Turning to Abbey he took in her frightened expression. "How long was he out of it girlie?"

Allowing her voice to tremble in fear, Abbey responded quietly. "That big lout," she nodded her head at Bates. "pistol whipped him when he abducted us. He'd been unconscious, till just moments before those bullies of yours, dragged him out and strung him up like that. He is badly hurt."

Seeing he was unmoved, Abbey changed her tactics and tried pleading.

"Please Sir, what do you want from us? We don't have much money."

"Who is this woman Bates?" Sullivan demanded.

He had instructed his men to bring Jackson in alone.

"His squeeze." Bates responded with a lewd gesture.

"Can I have her boss?"

"Bates you are a pig." Sullivan informed him.

"If you answer all my questions truthfully, you have nothing to fear young lady. What is your name? What do you know about Dr. Jackson's work?"

" My... My name is Abbey. Look, Danny and I just met. This was our first date." She whined trembling.

"He told me he worked at the History Museum, something to do with mummies." She added, hoping she sounded vacuous.

Chuckling, Sullivan muttered, "Well that is not too far from the truth."

Noting the large bucket of water one of the other men had set beneath Jackson's feet, he tested it. Finding it was ice cold, he tossed it over the unconscious man.

Daniel couldn't help himself, as the icy fluid washed over his naked torso, he gasped and sputtered.

"What? Sullivan? What is going on, where are we?"

Still feigning confusion, he allowed his carefully unfocused gaze to settle on Sullivan.

"Now Dr. Jackson listen up, we are going to play a little game. It's called you tell me what I want to hear, or we beat the crap out of you." He said ominously, nodding to Bates.

The man took aim at one of the tattoos covering Daniel's torso, punching him in the kidneys hard.

The helplessly hanging man, swung forward with the impact, knocking the hovering Sullivan off his feet. Sullivan gasped, the wind knocked out of him.

Bates realizing his error rushed to assist his leader to his feet. Abbey bit back a smile, until that is, she realized Daniel was unconscious once more.

"Eli, get some more water." Sullivan gasped, pushing Bates away.

Sullivan had recovered fully by the time Eli returned, dousing Daniel gleefully. Daniel sputtered up from the depths of oblivion once more, only to be struck again. This time without any questions being asked of him.

"Oh look at all the pretty tattoos he has boss. They make great targets!" Eli crowed, jabbing Daniel in the ribs.

"I especially like the nifty snake, he has rising up out of his belt buckle. Reminds me of that character Snake Pliskin."

Taunting the breathless Jackson he asked, "Should we call you Snake, or Pliskin?"

Daniel struggled to focus on the bully's ugly face, trying to stay strong. There was a sudden searing pain in his right wrist, alerting him that the force of the repeated blows and his own body weight, were more than it could bear without damage.

'This is how Jack's arm must have felt, as he desperately hung on to me, despite the grueling, burning pain and numbness,' he thought.

Oddly, a small red hole appeared suddenly, in the middle of the man called Eli's forehead and began leaking blood. His face taking on a sudden stunned look, just before he pitched forward.

Daniel heard a familiar voice answer the question sarcastically, from behind him.

"Oh was that supposed to be a metaphor? It was just so clever!"

Just as all hell broke loose.

Time seemed to slow down for Abbey.

She had seen the tall silver haired, black clad figure, appear from the deep shadows, just behind the helpless Danny. Hoping he was a rescuer, and fearing her armed abductors outnumbered him, she had not cried out. Instead, she watched in stunned silence, as he calmly returned their fire, killing them, one by one. After what they had done, she could find no sympathy for them. Instead, she found herself cheering the marksman on, as he coldly annihilated her new enemies.

Seeing his men mowed down one by one, Sullivan ran to free Abbey, using her as a hostage.

The marksman, seeing Sullivan's cowardly act, calmly approached them, as Teal'c and Sam, freed Daniel, easing him to the ground.

Abbey could smell Sullivan's fear, as the tall silver haired man with the cold eyes, came closer. He had one arm held carefully to his side, in a sling; blood oozing rapidly from a scalp wound, on the left side of his head. From the look of it, a bullet had grazed him, leaving a nasty six-inch furrow.

Sullivan pulled Abbey in front of himself, shooting the man at point blank range, hitting him in the upper left thigh.

The silver haired hero faltered briefly, but kept on coming toward them. Oblivious to his own injuries, he continued to stare down the coward, who was using Abbey as a shield.

Suddenly everything seemed to stop. The only sound was Sullivan's harsh breathing. Tightening his hold on her waist, pushing his gun into her neck, Abbey heard Sullivan's growl, as he acknowledge the man who faced him so boldly.

"So O'Neill, I see the little surprise we sent, failed to take you out of the picture." He laughed harshly.

"Let me walk out of here, or I'll kill the girl."

"Oh that is just so very cliché." O'Neill quipped, coldly.

"You see Sullivan, can I call you Sully? I can't do that. There is the little matter of one dead Marine and several assaults on my team, to consider."

Unbeknownst to Sullivan, Agent Barrett had maneuvered himself behind him.

Placing the barrel of his cold gun into the base of the man's skull, instructing in a harsh whisper.

"Drop the pistol Sullivan. As far as I'm concerned the girl is expendable. I don't have the knight in shining armor hang up, that O'Neill has."

Hearing the deadly certainty in the man's voice, Sullivan pushed the girl away, dropping his weapon.

Abbey stumbled forward into O'Neill, bumping hard into his injured left side, clutching him for support.

He clasped her briefly in a strong embrace. Muttering "You did real well Abbey." Then with a sigh, she felt him collapse.

Struggling to support his tall frame, she prevented him from hitting the floor. Sitting down, Abbey pulled his head into her lap, ignoring the blood. Looking into his weathered and handsome face, she wondered how Kate had ever thought this tough man could be a burn out.

Now that she was safe, she felt tears of gratitude fall from her eyes, landing softly on the Colonel's face, mingling with the blood from his head wound. Disgusted with herself for this display of weakness, she looked up into the concerned face, of a large black man with a golden emblem on his bald forehead.

Recognizing him she smiled.

"So Murray, you were in on all this too?"

"Yes, Abbey. I will take O'Neill." He said gently lifting the Colonel into his arms.

Strong hands reached out to assist her to her feet. Abbey looked into the familiar and welcome eyes, of Tony DiNozzo.

"Holy cow Abbey, Gibbs is really going to be pissed, when he finds out about all this!"

Laughing with relief and delirium, Abbey hugged him hard.

"Don't be a smart ass Tony. What are you doing here? Where is Danny, is he alright?"

"Captain Martin is looking after him, he is unconscious at the moment." Tony informed her, wrapping a blanket around her as he led her outside.

Spotting Captain Martin looking after the Colonel's inert form, lying in the back of a black SUV, Abbey stopped to ask how he was.

The dark haired woman looked up briefly, informing her that he was in "serious condition." Then she continued to apply pressure to his bleeding wounds, dismissing Abbey completely.

Taking no offense, Abbey stumbled on, still supported by Tony, to where Daniel Jackson was lying swathed in blankets, in the back of another vehicle.

Daniel was conscious, but his breathing sounded raspy. Her considerable forensic expertise alerted her that he might have a punctured lung. Instructing a tall blonde standing nearby to help her, they sat him up to facilitate his breathing, just as the first of several ambulances pulled up. The paramedics swarmed around the injured men, gently pushing the women aside.

Both Daniel and O'Neill were immediately removed to an area hospital; Captain Martin accompanied the Colonel, still applying pressure to his scalp and bleeding leg wound.

Another duo of paramedics, insisted she go to the hospital to be checked out as well. Abbey acquiesced; she wanted to check up on Daniel and the Colonel. Once inside the vehicle, she gave in to her exhaustion, falling into a deep healing sleep.

Major Sam Carter watched the ambulances pull away, hiding her deep concern and regret. Unfortunately, she'd had quite a bit of practice hiding her feelings over the past seven years.

As second in command, with the Colonel injured and incapacitated, it was up to her to "mop up" this operation.

Fortunately, the local Police had been incredibly cooperative, once Agents Barrett and DiNozzo had flashed their NCIS and NID badges. Agreeing that the two Agents had the proper jurisdiction, Sam had requested the two keep her informed. Then she and Teal'c had been free to make their way to the Hospital to check on Daniel and the Colonel.

Phoning the General, she had filled him in fully on the recent events. While General Hammond was pleased they had captured the alleged culprit alive, he was more concerned with the health of his premiere team. The Major promised to keep him apprised, ending her call with the proper.

"Yes, Sir, I will Sir."

Kris had insisted on riding along with Jack, applying pressure to his leg wound. From the look of it and the amount of bleeding, she guessed the bullet had nicked an artery. Using all her weight, she pushed down on the wound with all her might, hoping to stop the crimson flow.

It seemed an eternity before the ambulance stopped. Then the two paramedics were rushing Jack into the emergency room, with Kris still applying pressure, running along side. Oblivious to the commotion around her, Kris focused on Jack and the leg wound.

The paramedics had informed Dr. Tom Black, that the woman intently focused on his patient's leg wound, was a Nurse, Captain in the U.S.A.F., and the Colonel's aide.

Understanding her dedication and concern, he none the less gently moved her aside, advising her.

"Move aside Captain I need to get a look at this leg wound."

Realizing the Captain was in shock, Dr. Black turned her over to his first year resident, instructing the young Doctor to "Take care of the Captain." Then turned his full attention back to the Colonel.

"Lets give him six units of O neg, run a unit of Ringers and prep him for the O.R. STAT!"

Kris numbly allowed someone to lead her off to the side. She was vaguely aware of the young Doctor speaking to her, as he examined her for injuries. Physically she was fine.

Although she had seen some action in the Gulf, the events of the past 24 hours had pushed her to the limit. As they rushed Jack to the O.R. she allowed herself to focus on the questions put to her.

"I'm alright, just a bit shaken and exhausted." She smiled weakly at the earnest young man.

"Probably coming down from the adrenalin high."

Suddenly aware that she was shaking like a leaf in the wind, Kris took a deep calming breath as a warm blanket was wrapped around her shoulders.

"I guess I just need a cup of coffee."

Looking around, Kris noticed two more paramedics pushing a gurney into the E.R. Catching sight of its occupant, she realized it was Abbey.

Abbey was dreaming. The dream was less than a pleasant one. Suddenly, someone jerked her awake calling her name.

Opening her eyes, squinting in the bright glare of florescent lighting, she made out the woman who had been working so intently on the Colonel. "Captain Martin I presume?" She questioned.

"Yes Abbey. Are you alright?" Kris asked her, worried exhaustion evident in her weary voice.

"I think so. The paramedics insisted I let them take me in to be check out." She smiled, with equal exhaustion.

"I figured it would be the fastest way to check up on the Colonel and Danny."

Kris took a deep calming breath, replying in a surprisingly steady voice.

"They've taken the Colonel to surgery."

Pulling the blanket tighter around her trembling shoulders, she continued.

"I don't know about Dr. Jackson, he was in better shape than the Colonel, when I last saw him."

"Somebody asking about me?" They heard from behind a nearby drape.

Pulling the barrier away, both women beheld a battered and prone, but grinning Daniel Jackson.

"What happened to Jack?" He asked weakly.

Abbey was overcome with relief. When she had last seen Danny, he was having such a hard time breathing, that she had been convinced he'd punctured a lung. Jumping off the gurney, she rushed over and kissed him squarely on the mouth. Straightening up quickly, when she heard him yelp. "Sorry, did I hurt you?" She inquired inanely.

"It's nothing another kiss won't fix." Daniel said, with a wry grin.

"Just don't squeeze me so hard this time." Pulling her down so he could reach her, he kissed her gingerly.

Kris watched them with amusement. As no one was looking, she snagged Daniel's chart and began to familiarize herself with his injuries. Janet would expect a full report.

Catching her reading the clipboard intently, Daniel once more asked after Jack. Kris, concerned over the information she had read on Daniel's flow sheet, decided to perform her own assessment.

"Lets worry about you first. Are you having anymore difficulty breathing?"

Rolling his eyes in mock annoyance, Daniel replied.

"Kris you are not on duty. Matt the medic told me I had a collapsed lung. They needle aspirated it in the ambulance. Once they had evacuated the air, the pressure was gone. Since then it hasn't been so bad."

"Have you been to x-ray as yet?"

Kris couldn't help it. She needed to keep busy. It was the only way she knew how to cope with her worry.

"Ladies, if you'll excuse us. Mr. Jackson and I have a date in Radiology." An irritated male nurse informed them, confiscating the clipboard Kris was still holding.

"You Ladies need to return to your own bedsides."

Abbey and Kris sheepishly did as they had been told.

Kris convinced her young Doctor to place her cart next to Abbey, so they could keep each other company.

As Kris had been positioned outside the warehouse, while the rescue was going down, Abbey filled her in on all that had occurred; both women saying a silent prayer that the Colonel would be all right.

Hours later Abbey, Kris, Teal'c and Sam, sat quietly at Daniel's bedside. Jack was still in recovery. Dr. Black had informed the worried group, that he was out of danger. But, as they were not Jack's family, he was restricted by law and was unable to give them any more details.

Daniel had three broken ribs, a concussion, bruised kidneys, and a dislocated wrist. He was informed he was to be a guest of the Hospital for at least a few days. He had requested that once Jack was out of recovery they be roommates.

When Dr. Black had given him a dubious look, Daniel explained about Jack's tendency to "strike out" in unfamiliar surroundings. He'd insisted, that if Jack heard his voice, he'd be less distressed. The Doctor had treated very few veterans, in his brief medical career. But, he'd understood the wisdom of Daniel's request and agreed.

Finally after repeated admonishments from a harried charge nurse, that only two visitors where allowed at a time, the worried group had all been "restricted" to the waiting room. Kris was just about to request an update on Jack, when they heard the familiar staccato clip of Janet's Frazier high heels, headed their way.

Rounding the corner, Janet was greeted by four very worried friends, standing impatiently in a group. Smiling, she indicated they should all have a seat.

"I have just left the Colonel's bedside. He is still in recovery. Civilian hospitals are not as lenient as we are at the SGC. They will not release him to his room until he is awake."

Noting Kris's impatient look, she went on.

"The bullet did nick an artery just as you suspected Kris. Dr. Black filled me in on all you did for him en route. You saved him once again. Without your quick thinking he'd have bled out, before the ambulances arrived."

"How is he now Janet?" Sam asked, her calm tone belying her fears.

"Given lots of rest he will be alright, if there is no infection. The head wound while ugly, is minor, there is no skull fracture. He'll be a bit weak due to all the blood loss, despite the transfusions. But, we are talking about Jack O'Neill here. The arm incurred no further damage, thank God." She stated with a bemused expression.

"You know Kris, we wanted him to rest, but this is not how I envisioned we get him to do it." Janet continued archly.

"My thoughts exactly Doctor." Kris replied. "How long before you think they'll let us see him?"

"Another couple of hours I'd say. Why don't you all go get something to eat? I'm off to see my other warrior, Jack Daniels." She said with a grin.

"As soon as the Colonel is stable, I'll have them both transferred back to the SGC."

***

Jack was confused, just where was he? It was black as pitch, his limbs felt heavy and his leg was killing him. His left arm ached, as did his head. He could hear someone moaning in agony. For a moment he thought he was back in that hellhole of a prison, in Iraq.  Preparing to fight his way free, he became aware of the incessant and familiar beeping of monitors nearby. Realizing he must be in the infirmary, he settled down, trying to open his eyes. An unfamiliar voice told him to take it easy, he was in the Hospital, in recovery and he was going to be all right. Jack allowed himself to drift off once more, escaping the discomfort and the moaner.

Janet Frazier was sitting with Daniel while he slept. Feeling the familiar vibrations of her pager, she tiptoed out to the nursing station to respond. Dialing the number displayed, she was connected to the recovery room; a nurse informed her that Jack was coming around. Instructing her not to approach him, she immediately headed there so she could reassure him as he awoke.

Jack hearing someone calling his name, floated up from the blackness, once more.

Cracking an eyelid, he spied the welcome face of Janet Frazier, smiling down at him.

"What did I do this time Doc?" He croaked.

Janet filled him in briefly, and then instructed him to sleep once more. "By the way Jack, I've given you something for the pain. You'll be a bit groggy. But, you need the rest. When you next wake up, you'll be sharing a room with Daniel."

Jack was already drifting back into sleep, but he understood her warning.

"Don't worry Doc, I won't kill anybody."

Smiling, Janet nodded at the transporter that it was all right to move the colonel now.

"I'll just let the General know you are back with us, Sir."

Jack didn't answer he was already asleep, a look of peace on his face.

Three days later, Kris was on her way into Jack and Daniel's room, for another day of playing referee, when she heard a familiar petulant argument going on.

"For crying out loud Danny, I don't want to chat, give me that remote! I want to watch the game."

"Forget it Jack! Watching television is all we've done for the last twenty-four hours! I'm sick of it!" Daniel was equally irritable.

Why had he ever requested Jack be his roommate? Daniel berated himself, for the hundredth time that day. He had forgotten Jack hated to talk, was easily bored and loved watching sports. Gad!

"Alright, no sports. It's almost time for The Simpsons anyway." Jack agreed reasonably.

"Jack we need to talk about a few things..." Daniel insisted.

"No! I am supposed to rest and talking tires me out, Daniel." Jack informed him smugly.

Dr. Black caught sight of Kris listening outside the door, with a big smile on her face. He motioned her over to the desk for a chat.

"So Captain, when are your two charges going to be transferred back to Colorado? As entertaining as they are to me, my nursing staff is going crazy!" He said with a frown.

"I know just what your staff is going through Doctor." She replied, with an indulgent smile.

"You will be happy to know, that we leave in three hours."

"Fine, I'll get the paperwork ready. Tell Janet Frazier she has my sympathy and admiration."

Laughing, Kris went in to inform her charges of the move. Janet and the others had already returned to the SGC, leaving Kris behind to mind the Colonel and Dr. Jackson.

Entering their room, Kris found the two playing chess calmly. One would have never guessed, seeing them now, that less than five minutes ago, they had been bickering like five year olds.

"Hey Captain, anything new?" Jack asked with studied nonchalance.

Despite his innocent look, Kris knew Jack was itching to know how the interrogation of Sullivan was going.

Janet had forbidden anyone from filling him in. Fearing that if the Colonel knew how slowly things were moving, he'd attempt an escape.

Knowing how seriously Jack took the whole matter, Kris had to concur with the Doctor. His condition was still serious, any undue stress or activity could cost him.

"Peachy, Sir." Kris lied.

Hoping to distract him briefly, she relayed the details of their impending transfer back to the SGC.

Jack wasn't buying it.

"Captain, I am ordering you to call Barrett and Gibbs. I want a full rundown before we return to the base." He ordered.

"Understood?"

"I'm sorry Colonel. But, my orders are from the General himself. I am forbidden to do any such thing." Kris told him firmly.

"Now Sir, you'll just have to trust the rest of the mission to the NID and NCIS. Your focus should be on healing. Both you and I, know just how important that mission is right now."

Dismissing the topic she turned to leave the room.

"I'm going down the hall to take care of all the discharge paperwork. Then we'll get you both ready to leave."

Once Kris left, Jack turned to Daniel.

"Ya know Danny, I'm feeling much better. How about you and I taking a little walk around."

Daniel knew Jack would go with or without him. So, knowing Jack would need him to watch his six, Daniel agreed.

"I suppose we'll need to make a little detour too." He added archly. Knowing full well, that the detour would be straight to Washington D.C. and the NID, where Sullivan was currently being held.

Rising a bit unsteadily, Daniel pulled out the clothing Kris had placed in the wardrobe, for their transfer, the day before. Pushing a cane over to Jack, he asked. "Are you sure you are up to this Jack? I mean, can you put weight on that leg?"

"Piece of cake Danny." Jack lied, as he limped forward to snag the cane, wobbling slightly.

"Help me take this damn sling off will ya? It gets in the way."

Kris returned forty minutes later, only to find the cleaning crew tiding up the room.

"Where are the two patients who share this room?" She asked her suspicions growing.

"Gone Ma'am. They said they had been discharged, left about half an hour ago." One of the women replied.

Damnation, Kris thought, I'll probably be busted back to Lieutenant for this.

Now On to Part IV