Title: Resonance
Author: Cjay
E mail: Cjay627@msn.com
Category: Sequel to Hard Candy Colonel... Drama, angst, humor, adventure.
Warning: Smart Jack. Some whumping. Violence.
Pairings: None. Friendships. Yes.
Season: Seven
Spoilers: Smoke and Mirrors.
CONTENT LEVEL: 13+Language, mild.
Summary: Jack is recuperating, bored and wants some answers.
Fiction: To be hosted by Jackfic.
Disclaimer: They belong to Double Secret, Gekko, Scifi, MGM, Bellisarivis, etc. No profit received. Story exclusive property of author.
Size: 109kb in 97-2000 form.
Reminder: This is part one of Resonance. Part two is completed and will post asap.
Thank You: To Chezza for her Beta, I take full credit for any errors, thanks ever so much! My thanks to some other great supporters and friends. Kriss, Mandy, Sara, Jo, Su. And many more. It is so wonderful to have such friends! And to Arnise for all your work and kindness. Thanks, Cjay.
Captain Kris Martin pulled into Colonel Jack O'Neill's driveway, checking her watch. They had a full hour before they needed to report at the SGC. Jack had an appointment with Dr. Frasier, for a follow up on his injured arm. It had been two full weeks since the harrowing night she had been called out in a blizzard, on a mission of mercy by the base commander, General George Hammond. A strange occurrence at the base infirmary, had led the good General to have reason to worry about the possible danger, his Second in Command could be in. Ten members of SG-3 and Sg-4 had experienced respiratory arrests, one young member of SG-4 a Marine, had died. The nine other team members, a mix of Airmen and Marines, had narrowly escaped a similar fate.
An investigation had pointed to two new medications as the possible culprits, one of which had been given to the Colonel. He had dislocated his left elbow saving another member of his team. As his injury was not life threatening, the Colonel had been sent home to recuperate. The infirmary was quite full and Dr. Frazier knew he'd be much happier, without a bunch of "Napoleonic Power Mongers dictating his every move".
Unfortunately, unbeknownst to her, the prescription for anti-inflammatory medication she had given him had endangered his life. Luckily, Kris had arrived in time. Her many years of Air Force nursing and expertise in critical situations, had served her well; disaster had been averted. Now she and the Colonel were friends and until Dr. Frazier allowed him to drive once more, travel buddies.
Kris had received a commendation from the General for her quick thinking, in what she and Jack liked to called the snowbound O'Neill affair. Dr. Frazier, noting the Colonel's trust and comfort around Kris following the incident, had transferred the competent R.N. from the night shift to the day shift. It was a reward for a job well done, as well as a responsibility. She was now officially in charge of making sure a certain uncooperative Bird Colonel followed his Doctor's orders to the letter. Kris was Jack's chauffer and private nurse, as well as assistant physical therapist. At least until his arm healed enough for him to return to active duty.
It was not the usual situation, but then Jack O'Neill was anything but usual. At best, he was a cranky curmudgeon when ill or in pain. He'd driven many members of Frazier's elite medical staff crazy to the point of distraction in the past. Frustrating the good Doctor, with his refusal to cooperate with the plan of care she'd dictated, acknowledging his pain only when it was pure agony.
But, Kris had a knack for getting Jack to take better care of himself. She had a similar wry sense of humor and enjoyed his sarcastic view of life.More importantly, she'd earned his trust the night of the blizzard as well. The result was, that they now had a comfortable rapport. While many people would have pushed Jack to open up about his past, desperate to unearth just why he kept things to himself, she respected his need for privacy. She understood that need all too well. Life had not been a bed of roses for Kris Martin either. Jack somehow knew that too. They gave each other space, while maintaining a friendly banter. Making his recuperation more bearable for both of them.
Hence, she now arrived on his doorstep hot coffee and fresh bakery goods in hand, to get him ready to meet a new day. A day that included, another round of the tests he so despised. Before she could knock, the Colonel himself, opened the front door. He was looking as handsome as ever, despite a slightly sour expression and disheveled appearance.
"Kris, lets play hooky. I'm in no mood for Frazier, or her dictatorial crap today."
"Rough night, Sir?" He must have skipped his pain meds again and had little sleep, she thought.
"I've got just the pick me up you need. Strong coffee, along with those hot cinnamon pastries you love so much."
"Thought we agreed you'd call me Jack when off base, Captain." He sniffed at the bag, his dark expression lightened slightly.
"You are too good to me ya know that Kris?"
"I'm a sucker for a man in a sling Jack, even a cranky one. Now lets eat.We've got at least half an hour to forget our ultimate destination."
Moving past him into the kitchen, Kris opening the bakery bag so he would have a good sniff of the wondrous aroma and handed him his coffee. Hot cinnamon rolls she'd found, tended to improve his outlook and smooth over a rough morning start.They ate the pastries in silence sipping the coffee contently. Kris understood that Jack would resume the conversation once he was fully awake and feeling more in control.
He thought her easy acceptance of his silences had to be one of her best qualities. Quietly, she pushed two extra strength aspirin over for him to take once he'd finished his roll. After a heated debate on the matter, they had come to a mutual understanding about just what he was willing to take for both his pain and the persistent swelling, that the injuries to his arm had caused.
Jack was willing to take aspirin, but nothing stronger. Especially after the fiasco associated with the last prescription old Doc Frazier had given him. Kris was savvy enough to accept the concession and not badger him to take more than he felt he needed. But, even he had to admit he needed the little magic pills today. His arm was still very painful, the physical therapy only aggravated it further. But he stubbornly pushed on, anxious to heal, so he could get back to work.
Once he'd finished breakfast, he tidied up a bit. Then they were on their way up Cheyenne Mountain, to the SGC hidden deep beneath Norad. The roads had finally been cleared of the last remnants of the blizzard, making the journey a fifteen or twenty minute commute. Jack was feeling more like himself, now that he had a full stomach. The pain in his arm had lessened to a dull ache, thanks to the aspirin. Jack was quiet, concerned about the new barrage of tests, that Doctor Frasier had insisted on. The MRI she'd performed less than two weeks ago, had confirmed her worse fears.
She'd reluctantly had to tell him, that it would be several months, before the torn ligaments and tendons, surrounding his elbow joint could regenerate. There was gross damage, she had informed him. Much more than she had expected. He had known it would not be a good report; that was clear to him from the very start. He had enough experience with the pain caused by injuries, to gauge which of them would prove to be more serious. But, Jack had still held out hope he was wrong.
He had hoped, the repeated battering his fifty plus year old body had taken made his tolerance for pain lower. Hoped that it was this intolerance, not extensive damage, that was the reason it hurt like hell. But, he was very much mistaken.
Jack, ever true to his stubborn nature, had insisted on beginning physical therapy as soon as possible. Despite her doubts, Dr. Janet Frazier had capitulated. He had begun therapy last week. It was rough; at times excruciating, but he hung in there. Kris had kindly massaged the aching muscle tissues, every night when she had brought him home.
The massage and ice, had helped a great deal. But, he knew the arm had made little progress. It was that knowledge, which made his normal reluctance to undergo tests, greater today.
Sensing his mood and the reason for it, Kris decided to try and get his mind to focus on other matters.
"So Colonel, any news as to just how the chemicals got into those new meds, that were given so freely to both our infirmary and the Academy Hospital?"
As Second in Command of the Air forces most top-secret facility, Jack was privy to all that went on, despite being on sick call.
Everyday, after his therapy sessions, while he waited for Kris to complete her reports and other duties, he headed down to Hammond's office to get the lowdown.
Jack gave his answer careful thought. Kris had a high level of security clearance, but not as high as his own. Still, what little they had uncovered was probably already on the SGC grapevine, or would be soon enough. Every one of the base personnel had been questioned several times by the Air force, the CIA and the NCIS. Everyone that is, except him. Since he had been off-base, recuperating at home, they had dismissed him. A fact which both pleased and annoyed him.
To date, it was all a mystery. Jack had felt there were just too many fingers in the pie, too many agencies vying for jurisdiction in the case for anyone to make any real progress. He had voiced his opinion to General Hammond. As it turned out, this was an opinion that both Hammond and the President, shared. A marine had died, while several more had narrowly escaped death. As a result, the President had assigned the task of finding the culprits exclusively, to the Naval Criminal Intelligence Agency.
Neither George Hammond, nor the more senior Air Force officers were exactly thrilled with that decision. However, the President was the ultimate Commander and Chief of their great nation. So they all would follow the orders he gave, albeit grudgingly in this case.
Jack was frustrated with the small bits of information that the NCIS had been willing to share with Hammond.
"Got to wonder just what those Special Agents are keeping to themselves. From what little we've been told so far, they have little to go on. I suggested to General Hammond that he ought to put SG-1 on it. We'd have it cleared up in no time. Carter and Daniel, have a penchant for ferreting out information."
"They've solved bigger puzzles in the past seven years." He sighed. "But the NCIS lead agent is one stubborn SOB, he refuses to see reason."
"He is obviously unaware of your exemplary record Colonel. SG-1 is the SGC's premiere team. Especially, with one stubborn "never say die" Colonel Jack O'Neill, as leader to guide them."
She meant every word.
It was common knowledge that Jack O'Neill was the glue that kept SG-1 together.The unusual foursome was something of a legend around the SGC.They had saved Earth more times than they would ever admit.Although, she had heard Teal'c was keeping score on that one.
"Ah Kris, flattery will get you everywhere.You are so very good for my ego."He laughed bitterly.
"But, I have to admit I'm feeling rather useless lately."He uttered half to himself.
Kris heard him loud and clear.Her worry over his state of mind, should today's tests reveal what she suspected, grew tenfold.Jack O'Neill was not a patient man at the best of times.He was most impatient with himself.He cut himself no slack; allowed himself few mistakes.He was a man of action.Inaction, or the loss of control over his life, were his greatest enemies.
Kris hoped she was capable enough to help him battle those very personal enemies, now.
"Even with a bum wing, you are still one hell of a Bird Colonel, Jack O'Neill and don't you forget it!" She scolded.
Jack was touched by her words; amused by her tone.Kris really had a talent for making him feel somewhat less of a failure, he thought.Smiling, he decided to go along with her, saluting her smartly with.
"Yes Ma'am, Captain Ma'am!"
He sat back and tried to relax.Whatever today's test showed, he had his team and Kris in his corner; which was more than he ever thought he'dhave.
Arriving at the SGC, Jack was informed that the rest of SG-1 was off world on a mission.He grilled the duty sergeant for details, till he was satisfied they'd be safe without him covering their six.Although he'd never admit it, Jack was hurt.Not one of his team had informed him, that they were going off world on a mission without him.He knew it was irrational. After all, they were still on active duty and Carter was fully capable of leading SG-1 in his stead.Still it stung; he felt left out.
Pushing his wounded feelings aside, he squared his shoulders and headed to the infirmary level to undergo the hated tests, grateful he at least had Captain Martin to watch his six.
Jack sailed through the repeat MRI without complaint.The EMG was tolerated with similar stoicism, despite the excruciating pain it caused him.But, when the new occupational therapist put him through a new set of tests, designed to examine his fine motor skills, Jack became increasingly frustrated and angry.His left hand, was not responding, as he would have liked.His first three fingers were weak and he was unable to fully extend them.Worse, he was having trouble performing fine actions with that hand.The needle like pain was almost intolerable and it was numb all the way along the palm, from the side of his thumb to his third finger.He had been aware that the hand was not one hundred percent, but had not truly faced the extent of his impairment.
For the most part, Jack was able to cover his growing feeling of resentment toward the new therapist.Until that is, she had stretched his fingers a little farther and faster, than she would have, if he had been totally honest about the level of pain he was feeling, right from the start.
The resulting agony pushed him past his breaking point.Quickly pushing back his chair, causing it to fall to the floor with a crash, he rushed from the room.Before, the urge to "knock her into the middle of next week" overcame his good sense.
Kris had been waiting for him just outside the open door.Noting that he fairly vibrated with barely restrained anger, she let him go without comment.She then went inside the therapy suite to speak with Lieutenant Susan James, requesting a full explanation.
Enlightened, she went in search of him twenty minutes later.She tried all his usual haunts.Finally, she tracked him down in the gym, finding him knocking the stuffing out of a punching bag, with his good right arm. Wisely, she made no comment.She took a seat just outside the gym and waited for him to expend his anger and regain control.It wasn't that she feared he'd take his anger out on her physically, Jack was not that type; she knew that type all too well.Her ex-husband had been the sort of man who took all his anger and frustrations out on women.No, Jack just needed some time and space to expel his anger and regain his usual control.Any interference would only cause him to burying his emotions once more.It was time for him to "let it out".To release all his pent up anxieties, fears and feelings of loss.Then maybe, he could find a way to move on.
Jack O'Neill was a smart man.Smarter than many people realized. Kris knew he had read between the lines today.Jack was totally aware that his worst fears regarding his injury were about to be laid bare and explained to him in detail.He was getting ready to face it and to fight in his own way. Kris knew that.Today he needed her to be his friend first and his nurse second.After another twenty minutes of hearing his hand punching away, everything went quiet.
She knew, now was the right time to approach him.So, she ventured inside the gym and sat down on a workout bench near his hunched over figure. Except for his labored breathing, the room was quiet and still.
The stillness stretched on for another five minutes.Jack finally looked up at her and spoke.His voice was empty and his expression was equally so.
"Guess I am headed for retirement once again, eh Kris?"
She had never seen this side of Jack O'Neill, the truly dark side.There was so much smoldering anger and desolation in those deep brown eyes. Intensity of this level would frighten the average person; it made Jack O'Neill a warrior to be feared. But it did not frighten her; instead her heart went out to him.
"Colonel... Jack, I know it looks bad right now.But, Lt. James has assured me, that most of the difficulty you are experiencing, can be traced back to the continued swelling around the radial nerve in your elbow.With continued therapy and time, things should improve."
His expression remained bleak.Fearing she was using the wrong tactic, she too became angry.
"Where is the stubborn SOB who never gives up, who never leaves anyone behind, today?Come on Jack, snap out of it! Together we'll lick this, if you'll just hang on!"
He heard the rising anger in her sharpened tone of voice and appreciated its source for the concern it was.He had her in his corner.At the very least, he could fight!Squaring his shoulders, he gave her a wry smile.
"O.K. You win.Lets go face Frazier and her minions.Maybe, it's not as bad as it looks."
Dr. Janet Frazier had been informed of the Colonel's reaction to the tests Lt. James had put him through.
Knowing he'd want her to cut to the chase; to give him the bottom line, she'd quickly gone over his other test results with her expert technicians.Then, just to be sure, she had faxed the test results to two specialists at the Academy Hospital for their opinions.
So, when Jack O'Neill came knocking on her office door, she had a plan all mapped out to go over with him.Taking in his expressionless countenance, she understood he expected the worst.She glanced behind him, to see Kris nod in confirmation of her suspicions.
Indicating he should take a seat, she launched into an abbreviated explanation.
"Colonel, all the tests indicated that the nerve that supplies those muscles, ligaments and tendons, which stimulated extension of the fingers in your left hand have been damaged.We are not sure however, whether this is a permanent situation, or not.There is still a huge amount of swelling surrounding the nerve, which may be the reason for the findings. If so, this is a temporary condition.The swelling, may be impeding the nerve's ability to send the proper impulses to your hand, in general.I won't lie to you, Sir. There is still a chance the nerve will never regenerate fully; you may never again have full use of that hand."
Jack refused to see the glass as half empty.It was not his style.
"Cut to the chase Doc, what can we do?"
Her explanation had given him renewed hope.Jack wanted to get started ASAP.
"Well first, we need to address that swelling with strong anti-inflammatory medication. That means more than aspirins.Second, we continue massaging the area with ice.Third, Lt. James and Kris will come up with an abbreviated therapy plan till you've healed a bit more. Fourth, you need to rest that arm Sir and last... we pray.A lot."
"Sweet.Lets get started then.Just be sure the anti-inflammatory we use is safe this time!"
He couldn't resist rubbing it in.Last time he had done what she'd asked, he almost died.He appreciated Janet's continued care and concern.But, he hated giving up any control over his own life.Her dictates constituted controlling to him and he never missed an opportunity to let her know it.
"Don't remind me."
Janet was still relieved that he had not obeyed her immediately.She still had trouble sleeping, over loss of the young Marine.
It was only Jack's consistently stubborn refusal to obey medical advice, along with Kris's quick interference, that had saved the Colonel's life.She was not offended by his rubbing it in.In fact, she had expected it.It was so Jack O'Neill; man in need of full control.But, she would make it clear he needed to abide by her medical dictates this time; whether he liked it or not.
"The medication I'm thinking of is very strong, Sir.It can be hard on the stomach, so you'll need to eat properly; no pizza and no beer!"
" For crying out loud Doc!"
Realizing he was in no position to argue, he conceded.
"Alright, I can live without them briefly."
He did have that fine Irish whiskey to fall back on, he thought.
Seeing the gleam in his eye, Janet knew what he was thinking.
"Kris will confiscate your fine Irish if necessary.No liquor of any kind Mister!I will not have a bleeding ulcer added to the Jack O'Neill file."
She looked to Kris for confirmation.
"Colonel, if you want to recover quickly you will need to follow my instructions to the letter.No seat of the pants flying on this mission.Is that understood?"
He shot her a look of injured dignity, but nodded his consent.
"Good.I'll get you the prescription.Then, I want you to go home, you've been through enough today.Kris will give that arm of yours an ice massage.Later in the week, Kris will meet with Lt. James and myself, to devise a new care plan for you.Lets see how the swelling is in one week.If it is improving, we'll restart therapy.We can always adjust the plan as needed, alright?"
Realizing he had little choice but to try things her way, he decided to be a good patient.
"Sure thing, Doc."Turning to Kris he added, "Lets blow this pop stand, Captain."
Kris noted the exhaustion he was trying to hide and smiled.There he was, her Hard Candy Colonel; in control once more.
"Yes Sir, Colonel, Sir.May I have a quick word with Dr. Frazier?"
"Fine.I'll just check in with Hammond to see if anything new has come up.I'll meet you topside in thirty minutes."
Nodding to Janet, he left the two women alone.
"I am so relieved there is still more that can be done, Ma'am.The Colonel seemed so discouraged, by the tests Lt. James ran, I was concerned."
Kris was careful not to reveal too much to the good Doctor.Jack deserved his privacy.
"I've been through something like this with him before, Kris.I know he goes all "dark side" as he calls it.But, he always bounces back, once there is a possibility he'll recover.Hope is a powerful tool.Stubbornness of the kind Jack O'Neill specializes in is another.If it is possible to beat this, he will."
Janet was grateful,that Jack had Kris in his corner.With SG-1 off world, he needed someone he could count on.Chances were nil he'd confide in her willingly, but Kris had a great capacity for empathy.So far she had "tuned into" the Colonel's unspoken needs, almost as well as Daniel.
"Try to think of some alternate forms of therapy for him, will you? Something that gets him to use his fingers, but seems more like relaxation than work.The Colonel is very easily bored. He hates being confined to the SGC medical level." Janet added, handing Kris Jack's new prescription.
"I'll give it some thought, Ma'am."
Wow that is a tall order, Kris thought. She was still exploring the world of Jack O'Neill.She wished Daniel Jackson were here, he might have some ideas on the subject.
"How long is SG-1 going to be off world?"
"I'm not sure."
Janet followed Kris's train of thought.
"When they do return, I'll see if Dr. Jackson has any ideas as well."
"It would help Ma'am, if I had the clearance to read the Colonel's file.I might gain more insight into his interests."
Doubtful that such a request would be granted, Janet assured her she'd talk it over with the General at the first opportunity. As Kris left, she reflected on just how close the Colonel had allowed the Captain to get to the real Jack O'Neill, in such a short time. It gave her renewed hope.
Jack, proceeded down to the General's office, but from the raised voices coming from within, his C.O. was not alone. At his knock and the General's "Come", he ventured inside.
Once inside he found the NCIS investigator, engaging the General, in a staring contest. Jack kept his expression carefully blank, amazed by the sight. He had rarely seen George Hammond this angry. The General's eyes flashed like lightening bolts, his cheeks flushed.
Jack's instinct to defend the General from this man, caused his hackles to rise. Turning to glare at the man who dared to upset his friend and C.O., he chose sarcasm to make his point.
"Ah Sir, I so hate to break up what sounds like a love fest. But if I could, I need a moment of the General's time."
He smiled with feigned innocence, knowing his point had been made, by the returned glare of the NCIS inspector.
"Is this matter important Jack?"
General Hammond was grateful for an excuse, to end this annoying confrontation with Special Agent Gibbs.
"Yes General, Sir. It is. A matter, which concerns the future of one of your top ranking officers, Sir."
Jack turned to gaze at George, allowing his worry over today's findings to register in his eyes.
Seeing the dark look in Jack's eyes, George knew the news was not all they had hoped for.
"Please excuse us, Agent Gibbs. We will talk again soon. Keep me informed."
His tone, made it clear to the other man that he had been dismissed.
Once they were alone, George gestured for Jack to take a seat and asked kindly. "What is wrong son?"
"Well George, the news the Doc gave me is not the best."
He went on to quickly relay all that Janet had told him.
"But, if I am a good boy, maybe we'll beat it yet."
His tone sounded lost and uncertain, even to him. There were few men Jack would open up to like this, George Hammond was one them.
"Jack, if anyone can regain full use of an injured arm it's you. You've almost died on me a dozen times over. God knows you've survived far more devastating injuries than this before. You have a guardian angel, all the luck of the Irish, or something, behind you. Not to mention, the entire SGC."
This man had endured so much, he thought. How many more times could he beat the odds? George Hammond intended to help him anyway he possibly could.
"Whatever you need, Jack."
"Well Sir; Frazier says no therapy for at least a week. Which means I have nothing to do but heal."
He looked at his C.O., willing him to say yes to his next request.
"George, I'd like all the information we have compiled on this whole chemical in the drugs fiasco. I want to be the liaison for between the SGC and the NCIS."
"Jack, as much as I'd like to allow that; Dr. Frazier may say otherwise. You know as well as I do, that when it comes to the health needs of the personnel of this command, she has the last word."
"I know that, Sir. Would you please talk to her? I'm going nuts here with nothing to do, but rest."
And try to ignore the pain, he admitted to himself silently.
"Makes it hard to maintain a positive attitude." Jack looked beseechingly at his C.O., noting with satisfaction, the precise moment when George caved in.
"Alright Jack, I'll speak with Dr. Frazier. But, remember she has the last word on the matter. Frankly, you are much better suited to handling Agent Gibbs's tactics, anyway. The way he maneuvers, you'll swear that the man has to have been in special ops. He's as closemouthed as a certain hard nosed Colonel I know!"
Relieved that George was willing to try to get around the Doc's Mother complex for him, Jack stood and saluted smartly with a smile.
"Thank you Sir."
As Jack rarely saluted anyone unless it was necessary, George was amused. Laughing lightly, he dismissed the overgrown rascal. As soon as Jack had gone, he phoned Janet Frazier, requesting a meeting ASAP. It would be good therapy for Jack, he thought. But Lord have mercy on the NCIS!
Jack, found Kris, waiting for him topside. The twosome walked silently to her Jeep, for the ride down the mountain to his home. The guard at the gate saluted as they exited. Lost in thought, Jack didn't notice.
Before he knew it, they were pulling into his driveway and neither had said a word. Funny, he thought, Kris did not seem to mind his silences. He'd only really gotten to know her in the past couple of weeks, yet she was more in tune with him, than folks he'd known since the first mission to Abydos. Still silent, they entered the house. Jack headed for the shower, while Kris made them both a quick supper.
Once he'd showered and dressed in his sweats, they sat down to an equally silent supper.
It was clear to Kris that Jack O'Neill was done talking for the day. Understanding that he needed his space, in order to deal with all he'd been told today; Kris left as soon as she had finished massaging his arm.
But, not before she had handed him his new prescription, along with a cold glass of milk. Jack complied with her silent request and tossed the pills back, downing the milk in one long gulp. Smiling smugly, Kris left him to work things out on his own.
After Kris left, Jack realized he had come to rely on her a great deal. He wondered how she felt about him? It had been sometime since he had cared what anyone, beside his team thought of him. Cursing himself for an old fool, he put the matter aside, flipping on the sports channel. He must have dosed off, as the ringing of the telephone woke him. Picking it up, he heard the General's voice.
"Jack? Dr. Frazier, will agree to your role as liaison while you recover. But, only if you allow Captain Martin to assist you."
Jack snorted, "You mean baby-sit me Sir."
"Jack, Captain Martin is a competent ..." The General began.
"I have no objections General. The Captain is already a great help. I'm aware that I need an assistant. But, will Kris consent to the added responsibilities?"
He already had her looking after him, he admitted to himself easily. Conceding it, didn't cramp his style too much. He could be stuck with worse assistants.
"I wanted to run it by you first, Jack. I'll call the Captain next. If she has any objections, we'll modify the situation."
"Understood Sir.I'll be in first thing..."
"Ah, Jack... Dr. Frasier insists you take tomorrow off."
Ignoring Jack's angry whisper of "Napoleonic Power Monger", he continued.
"I'll send over all the Intel we have so far, in the morning, for you to study while you rest. Oh and Jack? Thanks."
Jack's emotionless reply of "Yes Sir." Made it clear that he'd obey the Doctor's orders, but not happily.
George breathed a sigh of relief. That went well, he thought.Next, he placed a call to Captain Martin. Once he had explained the nature of his call, the Captain had practically volunteered for her expanded role as assistant to the Colonel. She said it would help her figure out an alternate plan of therapy. Slightly puzzled by just what she meant, he thanked her and instructed his aide to gather the information Jack would need.
***
Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs was frustrated. His team had made little progress in the murder of the young Marine. The whole case was a frustration. General George Hammond, Commander of the top secret base known cryptically as the SGC, made it very clear that there were very few places in his base he - or his assistant Agent Kate Todd - would be allowed access. He had been informed, oh so politely, that they did not have high enough clearance. That was made clear over and over verbally, as well as with the constant escort they had of an Air Force SF. Actually, Todd as an ex secret service agent, had higher clearance than he had, but not high enough for the tough old Commander.
Anytime he had met with the General in his office, a barrier over the glass-viewing window just outside, was in place. He therefore, had been privy to a limited view of the facility.
Gibbs and Todd had only been allowed on certain levels of the subterranean base. They had grudgingly, been given rooms in the VIP suites on the Infirmary level. But, had a constant guard outside; to insure they did "not become lost."
Despite the various ploys used by both Agents to try to shake off the SF's, they'd been blocked at every turn. These folks were well trained. So well trained in fact, that he didn't buy the cover story about deep spaced radar telemetry, one iota.
So, at 2400, Gibbs, was still reviewing the few facts they had by Internet link, with the members of his team working back in Washington; when a knock interrupted him. Going to the door, he found the General himself waiting outside.
"What can I do for you General?"
Gibbs, was intrigued, as so far, the General had avoided him like the plague whenever possible.
"Special Agent Gibbs, I just got off the phone with the President. From now on, Colonel Jack O'Neill will be the official Liaison between yourself and the SGC. I trust you will cooperate in this fully."
The General's expression was carefully polite.
"Any further questions, or problems, should be directed to him." His tone clearly indicated this was an order he expected to be obeyed.
"The Colonel, will be available the day after tomorrow. I will send him all the data you have shared with me so far, for review. Any questions?"
"None, General. We had planned to spend the day tomorrow at the Academy, so that will have to do." He replied, keeping his facial expression deliberately blank.
So, the old man was calling in his war dog. He had not missed the look in the Colonel's eye earlier today, or the tone of his voice. O'Neill was no desk jockey; despite what the official records he'd been given said. So far they had not questioned him, as he was off base incapacitated, during the whole incident. Gibbs had also taken into account that the Colonel had been a victim himself and was therefore an unlikely suspect.
"Fine, then I trust things will move smoothly from here on." Hammond added, making it clear that O'Neill had his full support. Nodding, he left swiftly.
Gibbs pondered the reason for the change. Returning to the Internet link, which he'd left open, he asked, "You all hear that?" Glancing at the silent Agent Todd sitting opposite him, he noted her thoughtful expression.
"See what you can dig up on O'Neill there in Washington, then get back to us." He stated flatly severing the Internet link.
He looked inquiringly at Todd. Kate Todd had been one of the elite Secret Service Agents, who had the privilege of protecting the President himself. Until that is, she had been dismissed, due to her assisting Gibbs in a murder investigation and therefore breaking her chain of command. An act, she did not regret, nope not in the least.
The name Jack O'Neill was familiar to her. But, she knew relatively little about the man.
"I believe, he was the Colonel involved in that whole Kinsey shooting affair about a year back. Came off as the hero in that. But, the whole thing always seemed a bit off to me."
Noting Gibbs's raised eyebrow, she elaborated.
"First, he was accused of the shooting. Then later, Senator Kinsey said the Colonel, had allowed himself to be used as bait, to nail the real shooter. It just didn't track. I covered the press conference for the agency. The Colonel's body language, at that time, clearly showed his distaste for the Senator."
"Kate, I dislike any number of the people we work for; still do the job. O'Neill does not strike me as the type to shoot a Senator. The story may be incomplete, but it does track."
Gibbs had been a Marine long before NCIS. He knew all about Officers like the Colonel, men who were capable of doing almost anything in the service of their country.
"Still, the guy is an enigma. He is no desk jockey. You'll find that out when you meet him. Lets see what we can dig up here and at the Academy."
Kate had already pulled up the Colonel's official file on her hard drive. 'Whoa!' she thought, 'he is a hunk.' This guy must be candy to the ladies.
"Oh, I think I know just where to start." She smiled to herself. 'We girls do so love candy...'
***
Captain Mike Forrester was a lab rat by definition. He had been instrumental in the initial investigation of the drug tampering incident, working along side Dr. Frazier and Major Carter.
General Hammond summoned him at 0900, requesting he fill the Colonel in on all he knew. Handing him a thick file and cautioning him that the contents were for O'Neill's eyes only; he'd dispatched Mike to the Colonel's home.
Mike arrived at 1000 knocking smartly on the door. He'd figured O'Neill would be waiting for him. But, it was Captain Kris Martin who opened the door with a smile of welcome on her face.
"Hi, Mike. The Colonel is expecting you." She gestured him inside.
"How are you, Kris? I wasn't aware you'd be here."
Guess I should have known though, he thought. Kris had been like the Colonel's right hand, or should he say left hand, the past week or two.
Mike lowered his voice.
"How is the Colonel taking the news about the arm, Kris? Is he driving you crazy yet?"
O'Neill's fate was already a hot topic on the SGC grapevine.
"The Marine's have started a betting pool; on just how long before he loses his patience. We all know he'll beat the odds, it's just a matter of when."
The whole SGC was pulling for their favorite officer.
"Everything is just peachy, Mike." Colonel Jack O'Neill quipped, as he appeared at the end of the hall.
Sweet little grapevine, he sighed.
"Gives me time to straighten out this whole drug tampering mess. Kris is my assistant on the case. So come on into the living room. You can debrief us both on what you know. Hammond called this morning, to inform me you were on your way."
Slightly embarrassed, Mike followed him, taking in the way Jack guarded his left arm. Oh heck, me and my big mouth. He should have remembered the Colonel had the hearing of a bloodhound, when he chose to.
"Sorry Sir, I was just concerned."
"No sweat, Mike." Jack wasn't disturbed by the Captain's concern. If anything, he was touched, although he'd never show it. But, he was anxious to dig into the information.
Changing the subject, he requested, "Fill me in, Mike. But do me a favor; leave out all the scientific mumbo jumbo. I get enough of that from Carter."
Mike relaxed and smiled. He was no stranger to the Colonel's intolerance for minute details. He concisely relayed all that he and the Major, had discovered the night of the blizzard.
Although, Jack knew most of it, it was a good review, from a scientific perspective. But he was confident, that the thick file Mike had handed him, would fill in more of the blanks.
"Anything new from the NCIS?"
"Nadda. They do not share." Mike said, with disgust.
"But, I had coffee with several of the nurses this morning. They told me that Agent Kate Todd, the head guy's assistant, was pumping them for information about you Sir. Seems an SF had escorted her to the infirmary, where she complained of a headache. Then, she proceeded to subtlety question every woman on duty. As it was shift change, there were quite a few still around."
"Oh?"
Jack expected they'd want to find out as much about him as they could, before dealing with him. But, why pump the nursing staff?
"Any idea as to why she'd target them, Mike?"
Mike blushed to the roots of his sandy hair. Damn, now he was caught. He'd have to spill about the general "admiration", the women of the SGC had for the Colonel. He felt awkward. He wasn't sure just how to begin. He glanced at Kris pleadingly.
Kris took pity on him. Most junior officers would have a hard time telling their C.O. that he was an object of lust for the women he worked with; especially an officer like Mike. Mike himself was just as completely oblivious to his own affect on the ladies.
"I think I can fill you in about that later, Sir." Kris said, giving Jack a slight headshake.
Seeing the obvious discomfort, his request had caused Mike, he nodded acceptance.
"Well, if that is all Captain, I guess you'd better report back to the SGC. Kris and I, have a lot of information to digest."
"Yes, Sir. I'm glad you are on it now, Sir. Maybe we'll get a few answers." He said letting the confidence he had in O'Neill color his voice.
Mike saluted Jack, then left quickly.
Jack turned to Kris.
"What the heck was that all about? By the look on his face, you'd think I asked him to dance or something?!"
Kris laughed. She looked at Jack thoughtfully. Could it be, he really was so unaware of the way most of the women, including her, felt about him? It looked that way. This was intriguing. The more she got to know him, the better she liked Jack O'Neill.
"Well, Sir.You see..."
"Just spit it out Kris! I can take it."
Most probably, they called him a Stubborn Pain In The Ass SOB. He was not unaware what a bastard he could be, when on the mend and bored out of his skull.
"O.K. Sir. Just remember you the one who asked me. They... we, call you the Hard Candy Colonel."
Jack had not expected that! He choked on the sip of coffee he'd just taken.
Kris knocked him on the back, trying to help him clear his airway. She couldn't help but smile broadly at his reaction. It was nice to know, he did not have a huge ego.
"Are you alright, Jack?"
Dragging in a strangled breath, he asked the old patented O'Neill, 'you got to be kidding me question,' complete with incredulous expression.
"What?"
"They call you the Hard Candy Colonel. I'm sure the agent, being female, got wind of it and figured she could use it to her advantage." She added sagely.
Jack was not amused. "That is not funny Kris." He said sourly.
Realizing he thought she was teasing him, Kris took pity on him.
"Jack, come on you are a good looking guy. Not to mention, you've save the world a time or two. In addition, you are the SGC's Second in Command. Those attributes alone send out signals." She informed him seriously.
He looked plain horrified, she noted.
"Add in your sterling personality, charming wit... Viola, instant hunk status!"
Oh my God, he thought. He'd never live this down if the guys on his team ever got wind this. After all his hard work building a reputation as a hard ass! First, the news about the arm and now this... life sucked sometimes!
Kris thought she understood the continued look of distress and discomfort he wore.
"Frankly Sir, I'm amazed no one has told you before. Everybody knows about it at the base."
Jack closed his eyes, composing his expression into one of careful indifference.
"Makes no difference to me, Captain."
Opening his eyes, he could see from her carefully blank expression, and the twinkle in her eyes, that she was not buying it. 'Gad!' He thought wincing.
"Everyone?"
"Yes, Jack. In fact, Daniel has remarked on it several times. He finds it "endearing", was I think the word he used."
Jack groaned.
"Enough Kris, lets forget it and move on."
If Danny boy hadn't used this intel yet, chances were he never would. Teal'c might be amused, but would refrain from tormenting him and Carter was too military to use such tactics.
At least, he hoped so.
"Not another word about it, understood?"
The pain in his arm had just gotten worse, he realized. Another horrifying thought assailed him. How would he ever be able to face the infirmary staff again, armed with this new information? That is it! He vowed to himself. He was never dropping his pants in that infirmary for the required post mission needle in the butt, again!
"Yes, Sir.Colonel, Sir." Kris bit back her smile, attempting to compose her face into a blank mask.
"The subject is closed, Sir."
They spent much of the day going through the file the General had sent. The Pharmaceuticals Company continued to deny any knowledge, as to how, a top-secret synthetic chemical had been added to both, an anti-inflammatory pill and an injectable pain medication. One, by itself was lethal enough. A mix of both chemicals would slow the impulses the brain sent out, impulses, which stimulated spontaneous respiration. The young Marine had received both, within twenty minutes of his respiratory collapse. The lethal mix, seemed to work at varied lengths on each of the victims, depending on the dosage and timing of administration; coupled with each victim's own unique response.
Area 51, where the formula, the chemical, was derived from was supposedly locked away, had also denied any knowledge of just how a civilian company had gotten their hands on it. Jack's suspicious side took over.
"I smell a rat. Kris, how much do you know about the NID?"
The SGC grapevine had enlightened her somewhat and the General had increased Kris's security clearance, for her role as Jack's assistant in this investigation.
"Well Sir, I do know they enjoy stealing technology, then selling it off for development, with the excuse of protecting our nation from its enemies."
Kris had heard how the Colonel, had played along some years back, apprehending quite a few of the bad eggs, as well as an SGC mole.
Interrupting any further comment, Jack interjected.
"We need to find out, just how soon SG-1 is returning from their mission."
"Sir?"
Kris was puzzled by the apparent change in topic.
Alerting Jack that he needed to fill her in on a bit more information.
"Carter, has a friend in the NID, Kris. He has helped her with an investigation, before. Unlike most of them, he is a straight shooter."
Well Carter, at least had trusted him. A leap of faith, which had helped SG-1 prove that Jack O'Neill, had been framed, in the supposed murder, of that Rat Bastard known to the world as Senator Kinsey.
"Meantime, we'll see what we can pump out of the NCIS."
He grinned. Now he was getting somewhere. The constant aching pain in his left arm lessened somewhat, as he concentrated on planning out a strategy.
"Jack O'Neill, the Hard Candy Colonel, has an idea, Kris."
He planned to use this agent Todd's fascination, with his reputation against her. Ah, Special Ops!Colonel Jonathon nee Jack O'Neill, was in full combat mode. 'Jack old man,' he thought, 'it has been a long time. It would be good to stretch his abilities once more.'
Kris noted the sudden change in the Colonel. His face took on a hard, no nonsense expression, his eyes had becoming lifeless and cold. Kris had seen that look once before, on the frontlines in the Gulf War. She had been involved while posted there, in the evacuation of wounded, by Chopper from an overrun position. The look in the eyes of the Commander of that lost position had had the same deadly emptiness. She'd seen it as they'd flew off, with the Chopper fully loaded, leaving him and the uninjured behind to fend for themselves. Jack O'Neill was taking no prisoners. Glad, that she was on his side, Kris shivered.
"Just what do you have in mind, Sir?"
