The Janus Solution
By
Jackie Clouse and Cincoflex@aol.com
A pair of double white doors with bright shining gold knobs was unlocked and
MacGyver pulled them open, poking his head into the room.
“Whoa!” He stepped back and looked over his shoulder at his wife as he tucked the key into the pocket of his light blue jeans. “Are you sure this is our room?”
“That’s what the Concierge said, and the key did open the room so yeah I guess it is ours.” Gillian brushed past her husband and walked into the suite.
“Holy cow!”
The first sight that greeted her was a set of living room furniture made of a dull gold material; it matched the color of the carpeting and the open curtains over a sliding glass door.
A small table and set of four chairs made of cherry wood sat just between the furniture set and the door.
Gillian walked around the room, going over to the glass door. She looked out it and saw a mini garden with shade, green grass and flowers.
“This is incredible.”
MacGyver closed the doors and locked them; he noted their two black suitcases waiting beside a white wrought iron spiral staircase.
“I guess this leads to the bedroom and bathroom.” Mac picked up the two medium sized suitcases and started up the stairs.
Gillian moved away from the window and climbed up the staircase. The upper level contained the bathroom, the bedroom with a king size bed and a sitting area with a furniture set, and a small cherry wood cabinet with double doors. The color scheme of the entire room was--red.
“Whoa! Satan’s bedroom.”
“Yeah I noticed, at least the walls aren’t painted red.”
MacGyver spotted the heavy red curtains and flung them back. The bright blue waters of the Nile greeted him; the river was framed by the deep rich beige of the desert high above it.
“Incredible.”
Gillian heard her husband and pulled the curtain further back; her dark eyes growing wide.
“Oh my God,” She opened the sliding glass door and stepped out onto the wooden balcony staring at the water.
“God it’s beautiful. Any closer and you could dive right into it.”
“Don’t get any urges to go swimming.”
Mac joined her outdoors and encircled Gillian’s waist; his sudden appearance made her jump. She touched his hands leaning back against his t-shirt; a deep contented sigh came out of her despite the blazing sun that shone down on them and the stifling heat.
*** *** ***
The sun had barely broken over the horizon when MacGyver and Gillian stepped
off the ferry platform. Both of them were wearing the light colors of tan and
white in defense against the rising temperature; it was only a little after
six and over 80 degrees already.
“What did you say this place was called again?”
Mac shielded his eyes as he looked around, seeing nothing but sand and the bright blue waters of the Nile as they lapped against the shore. He pulled a pair of sunglasses from his shorts pocket and slipped them on.
Gillian slung both her cameras, a video one and a regular one, across her shoulder and put her hands on her hips as she stood beside her husband.
“Plantation Island, it’s got gardens and trees from all over the world; its sorts of like the Egyptian version of the Garden of Eden.”
“I don’t see any gardens.”
“Well not on this side of the island.”
The roar of an engine forced the couple to turn around; it grew louder and suddenly a white Jeep came over the top of a dune and stopped in front of them. Behind the wheel sat an older, balding man with a thick white beard. He was dressed from head to toe in khaki complete with a tan boonie on his head. He pulled the hat off his head and folded it up tucking it into his pocket.
“Gillian MacGyver?” A smile broke out on his tan face as he climbed down from the Jeep and held out of his hand. He had been living in Egypt for a long time but still spoke with a slight German accent.
“Dr. Wilhelm Baum, I do believe we have met before.”
Gillian smiled as she shook his hand. “Yes we have Doctor; I’m surprised you remember it was some time ago.”
“I have an excellent memory.” Wilhelm turned to the man at her side. “And this is your husband?”
Mac stepped forward and held out his hand. “MacGyver, pleasure to meet you, Dr. Baum.”
“For me as well MacGyver. I want to welcome you both to Plantation Island.” He stretched out his hand and motioned to the Jeep. “Shall we go? There is much to show you.”
“Of course.”
Gillian climbed into the vehicle and moved to the backseat while her husband took the front seat beside Dr. Baum. “Indy told me you found some ruins?”
Wilhelm started the Jeep and dropped it into gear. “Yes, normally Hans would be here with me but he took the team into Luxor,” he drove the Jeep through the bumpy, sandy road.
“So we’ll be all alone?” MacGyver turned to the driver, gripping the dashboard as the wheels hit a low spot in the road and threw him forward.
“Ach, yes, but don’t worry we’ll have plenty of peace and quiet.” Wilhelm glanced into his rearview mirror. “Indy said you were one of the best students he ever had, he spoke very highly of you.”
Gillian felt her face grow warm at the compliment. “I hope I can live up to everything he said.”
“We’ll see,” Wilhelm glanced over his shoulder at her. “You’ll have your chance very soon.”
*** *** ***
The dig site was a few miles away, nestled on the desert floor among a sea of sand dunes and brush. It sat on a stone foundation, still remarkably solid even after many centuries and the harshness of the Egyptian sun and consisted of several broken buildings, obviously at one time temples, with one small intact square structure that sat in the center.
There were stairs that led to nowhere but the stone floor scattered among the broken bricks and collapsed columns.
A gust of wind suddenly kicked up blowing a cloud of stinging sand around Gillian’s legs. She closed her eyes, turning her face away from it.
“Wow, any idea what this place used to be?” MacGyver pulled his sunglasses off and looked around.
Wilhelm put his boonie hat back on. “We believe it belonged to several goddesses, one of them being Anquet.”
“Who?”
Gillian walked around on top of the foundation. “Daughter of Ra, she is the Goddess of the Nile and its protector.”
She crouched down and picked up one of the bricks. “Which makes perfect sense considering where we are.” She stood up and brushed off her hands, spotting the only standing building. “Anything in that little temple?”
“Yes as a matter of fact, let’s go.” Wilhelm pulled three flashlights from his pocket and handed one to MacGyver. “Some glyphs all about Anquet and the god Khnum, said to be her husband.”
“Anquet was also the Goddess of Fertility and a huntress.” Gillian took the flashlight from Dr. Baum and turned it on. “Well let’s go see what it says about her.”
*** *** ***
They sauntered down the halls together, Rose with an armful of files, O'Neill
with his hands thrust deep in his pockets of his fatigues.
"After work?" he inquired gruffly.
"Mmmmmmmmm-would that include food?"
"Yes. Steak for me, shrimp for you to get the objective started with a much needed protein boost--" Jack told her firmly. Rose tried not to smile, but it was difficult. Subtlety was NOT the man's strong suit by any means. She settled for pursing her mouth.
"And WHY would we need a protein boost, Colonel?"
"Because I plan on the two of us expending a GREAT deal of physical energy within two hours of dinner, Ms Clowderbock. A repetitive motion activity involving intensive concentration," He kept a straight face, but the twinkle in his coffee-colored eyes was bright. Rose gave a thoughtful nod.
"Sounds serious, sir. Planning on going to great—depths---in this endeavor?"
"Well, after protracted topical reconnaissance and a session of oral communication, yes,” Jack lifted his nose in the air, trying to look grave.
"I see. And I suppose you're going to need me to deal with your---staff?" Rose asked gravely. They turned a corner, passing members of SG8. O'Neill nodded.
"Absolutely. As your commanding officer I expect you to work under me in a very intensive hands-on capacity, Ms Clowderbock. Lots of undercover activities."
"Of course-" the urge to burst out laughing was nearly overwhelming at this point, and Rose gripped the files to her chest tightly.
"I'm fairly confident in the outcome of the mission, colonel, but a little confused on the uniform of the day-any advice?"
"Oh I'm fairly sure we can dispense with uniforms-" he interjected smoothly. "--I'd be delighted to assist you in that process."
"Thank you sir. Very kind--"
"You know me, I like to lend a hand--"
"You do indeed-among other things,"
"Was that an insubordinate remark?" he stopped short, staring down at her intently. Rose quivered, knowing full well where they were. Their stroll had brought them right to the door of the electrical conduit access. Rose made no answer, but raised her eyebrow. O'Neill shook his head.
"Reprimand time-"
"A tongue-lashing?"
"Oh yeah-"
He yanked the door open, shoved her inside and followed, tugging it closed behind him. Rose's giggle was effectively cut off when he grabbed her and lifted her to him, kissing her heartily and making her drop the files. Rose threw herself into the kiss, sheer enthusiasm driving Jack back against the door with a thump. After a few deep and wet explorations, He drew a shaky breath.
"Three more hours, three more hours--I am SO not going to make it, Babe-"
She licked his neck, wriggling against him.
"Oh like I'M doing any better here-" she gasped. Jack had to laugh at that, and cupped her ass in his hands squeezing gently. They kissed again, and the sound of approaching footsteps grew louder; Jack waved Rose to silence, both of them grinning.
" . . . Once we find them we can start the briefing--I was SURE they were walking this way--" came Hammond's voice. Jack rolled his eyes in frustration. He hand signed to Rose to hold back and waited until the footsteps died away, then kissed her nose.
“This close—“ he held up a tiny distance between his thumb and index finger, “—To being busted. Oh how I love keeping this relationship interesting! Meet you up in the briefing room in two minutes.”
*** *** ***
When Rose scooted in, the rest of SG1 was already seated; Hammond shot her a paternal look.
“Doctor Jackson, when you’re ready—“ he rumbled. Daniel pushed up his glasses and flicked the remote in his hand as Rose slid into her seat between Teal’c and Carter.
The first slide showed a dusty dig site, complete with khaki clad workers and sand everywhere.
“The German institute of Archeology has been excavating a temple site on Plantation Island, Aswan Egypt—initial findings indicated a multi-deitied temple, with Anquet being among the primary goddesses worshiped there. Doctor Wilhelm Baum was the head of the dig—“
“—Was?” Jack interrupted. Daniel nodded ruefully.
“Yeah, past tense since Herr Doktor is no longer with us. He apparently found some glyphs that were a little more unusual than the ordinary temple script, so he called in THIS woman—“
The next slide showed a stunning redhead holding a clay tablet, her lovely eyes studying it intently. Jack’s eyebrows went up; Carter gave a little shake of her head.
“—Doctor Gillian MacGyver, head of the Phoenix Foundation’s Archeology department. She’s one of the top three North American experts in hieroglyphic translations—I refer to her journal articles all the time.”
“I BET—“ Jack muttered just under his breath. Daniel rolled his eyes.
“Moving right along—“ he replied, seeing Hammond’s impatience, “Doctor MacGyver managed to videotape the glyphs that so bothered Doctor Baum—“
The next slide clicked on, and everyone seated drew a breath, the Goa’uld dagger-like script and the gold emblem of the Stargate clearly apparent. Teal’c spoke up.
“Evidence of Ra—“
“—In the first degree, to be sure. Doctor MacGyver was so intent on these findings that she very nearly tripped over the body in the temple as well.”
“A mummy?” Rose asked curiously. Daniel shook his head. The slide flashed to the heavyset face of a nondescript man with dark hair and brown eyes.
“No, William J. Smith, a complete nonentity carrying an NID ID card. Said Mr. Smith did NOT die of natural causes because when Doctor Baum attempted to turn the body over, he received a bluish flashing shock, according to Doctor MacGyver.”
“Zat residue—“ Carter muttered knowingly. Jack frowned, crossing his arms. Rose shook her head.
Daniel sighed.
“The resulting stun was enough to stop Baum’s heart, so Mr. Smith couldn’t have been dead for more than four hours, leaving Doctor MacGyver with two bodies and a LOT of unanswered questions.”
“What’s the situation now?” Jack asked. Daniel shot a look at Hammond.
“The site has been sealed off for the time being, colonel, with a cover story about an outbreak of cholera in case the media try to make news of it. I’m having SG1 fly out ASAP to take charge of the site and ascertain if there is any alien technology or remaining threat. After what happened with the Osirius jars I feel the caution is more than justified. Any questions?”
“Sir, if the NID was already there, we may be too late—“ Jack warned. Hammond slowly nodded.
“That’s entirely possible, but I doubt it.”
“Why?” Jack persisted. Daniel cleared his throat.
“Because even though the NID may have experts on Goa’uld, these glyphs aren’t in any typical pattern. There’s another layer of code here, a linguistic enigma that is going to take some time to crack.”
“So you’re saying you haven’t figured it out yet-“ Jack challenged. Daniel came close to a pout, but Hammond frowned and laid a heavy hand on the tabletop.
“SG1 you have a go for Aswan. There’s a transport being held for you at Peterson, so I suggest you be on it within the next two hours. Dismissed.”
*** *** ***
Rose dozed. The flight to Dover had been uneventful, and the second stage to Ramstein although long had been bearable only because Carter had downloaded Grease on her laptop DVD player. The jetlag was starting to catch up to her but the best she could do was catnap as the jet rumbled through the lightening skies of morning.
She felt an arm lightly circle her shoulders and smiled sleepily.
“Hey.”
“Hey—“ Jack whispered gently, “Doing okay?”
“I’ll be fine—I just hate long flights.”
“This from a woman who goes to other PLANETS regularly?” he teased. Rose giggled.
“Yeah, well there’s something to be said for the express route, you know. How much longer?”
“’Bout another two hours. You think if I fell asleep with my hand on your chest that anyone would get suspicious?”
“I’D be suspicious!”
“Yes, but everyone KNOWS how nurturing you are,” Jack argued with a small grin. Rose pinkened.
“I cuddled with Daniel that one time because he was COLD! And Sam NEEDED her hair brushed—“
“--And Teal’c LIKES chocolate chip cookies, yes I know,” he teased in a low voice, “all part and parcel of that moral building thing.”
“Stop with the snide comments—just because we didn’t get—friendly-- before we left is no reason to be snippy,” Rose murmured, a little unhappily. Jack gave a little grunt as the plane hit a pocket of turbulence and everyone was jostled.
“I’m not snippy. I’m CRANKY, and I’m not thrilled about hauling ass to Egypt to face the NID. Those guys make my skin crawl.”
“Ditto, but it’s pretty much Daniel’s show at the moment, so settle down and get what sleep you CAN, Jack.” Rose patted her shoulder encouragingly. He grudgingly dropped his head against her and sighed.
Once the plane landed SG1 went through all the standard rigmarole with orders, I.D.s, and baggage before being taken by jeep to the Oberoi hotel. Two adjoining rooms, and with very little fanfare, all five team members collapsed in their respective beds, sleeping deeply, even though it was nearly morning.
*** *** ***
Gillian woke with a start, the heat of the day already beginning to filter in through the semi-dark tent making it stuffy. She sat up slowly looking down at the clothes she had now spent two straight days in; they were stained and sweaty despite the fan that the soldiers were kind enough to set up for her.
The narrow green cot creaked as she shifted and touched her husband’s back; patting the sweaty t-shirt.
“Mac--”
He groaned and rolled over to face her, his eyes opening. “What’s wrong?”
“I don’t feel so good,” Gillian rubbed her face; she felt hot, sweaty and cranky.
MacGyver sat up touching her damp hair. “We’ve been locked up in this tent for two days,” He shook his head, a slight scowl pressing his lips together. “We don’t even know why we’re being held here.”
The tent flaps parted and two men dressed in camouflage with black berets on their heads stood in front of them. “Sir, Ma’am, could you come with us please?”
Mac stood up; he had about enough of this. “Not unless you tell us what’s going on.”
The soldier said nothing, his face stoic. “Would you come with us please sir?”
Gillian climbed off the cot, not wanting to cause any more trouble. “All right, we’ll go.”
The two men split up and parted the flaps. “It’s this way ma’am.”
*** *** ***
Mac cautiously looked around, noting that everyone was suffering in the heat. He kept a hand on Gill's already damp back as he walked beside her.
"I'd kill for a wet wipe--" Gill grumbled. They stepped behind the soldier into another tent, ducking down to avoid the flap.
"Oh! You must be Doctor MacKenzie! I read your monograph on the evolution of the Wheat Staff through the reign of Amon--VERY insightful!" a dark-haired man in spectacles told her. Gillian stared at him.
Mac looked him over, and then let his gaze take in the assembled group sitting around the dark green table staring back.
"Pardon me if I seem rude, but who are you and can one of you kindly tell me why it is that my wife and I have been locked up for two DAYS?" His gaze bounced between the people and the man that spoke to his wife got to his feet.
“I’m Doctor Daniel Jackson, this is--” He started to introduce the others when Gillian interrupted.
“Oh my God! Doctor Daniel Jackson! I thought I recognized you.” She shook his hand, her dark eyes wide. “I’m sorry I was sort of in a heat haze when we first came in. I’m so honored to meet you.”
“Just Daniel, is fine-- ” Daniel blushed, pushing up his glasses and beaming.
"No, no, it's all right. And in answer to your question, Mr. MacKenzie--"
"--MACGYVER," came the annoyed rumble.
Gill shot her husband a look that promised a reprimand while Daniel drew in a breath.
"Mr. MacGyver--" he attempted, but Mac ran a hand through his hair.
"--Just--MacGyver, okay?"
"Fer cry'n out loud--" a voice rumbled half in amusement, half in exasperation.
Mac turned to see a silver-haired man in desert fatigues eyeing him.
“You’ll have to understand if I’m less than friendly right now. That tends to happen when my wife and I’m treated like prisoners with no explanations as to why.” He crossed his arms over his chest. “And you are--?”
"Colonel Jack O'Neill, big honkin' evil overlord of hapless archeologists everywhere--" he replied, lifting his chin in mild challenge.
Gill exploded into helpless giggles at this, and the sound was echoed by the two other women in the tent. Daniel pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes.
Mac bit his lips. The remark had been funny, and was obviously a ploy to relax them, but he wasn't ready to forgive the indifferent treatment just yet.
"Forgive me, Colonel, but forcing a pregnant woman to put up with desert heat and no sanitation kinda kills my sense of humor, okay?"
Jack's eyes went flinty. He looked to the waiting airman.
"I want Wainwright in here NOW," came the cold order. The airman jumped.
A tall, sweaty looking dark haired man in tan camouflage burst through the tent flap, snapping a salute to the superior officer. "Captain Wainwright reporting as ordered sir!" He lowered his hand seeing the colonel's deep scowl.
O'Neill locked eyes with him. No one in the tent spoke.
"Were you aware of this woman's condition, Captain?" came O'Neill's deceptively soft voice.
"Yes sir, however, general orders were to secure this area, and those take precedence over civilian comfort--"
"Jesus, Wainwright, I hope the Greenland phone directory won't be too fucking difficult for you to read--" the growl was low and dripping with menace. The captain paled. O'Neill narrowed his eyes.
"Whatever Doctor MacGyver wants she will GET, within reason, understood? Ice water, showers, cabana boys carrying drinks with little paper umbrellas---"
Gill snorted again, and the tension in the tent lessened for everyone but the captain.
"Yes sir!" Captain Wainwright looked at her and swallowed hard.
"I apologize ma'am for not seeing to your comfort," He looked in the corner of his eye at the colonel. "Would you like something cold to drink?"
Gillian nodded, trying not to grin. "I would love something cold and maybe a nice wet washcloth to freshen up?"
"Of course," He glanced at O'Neill who motioned with his head for him to go and go fast.
Wainwright nearly set the tent on fire with the speediness of his departure.
Mac nodded. He didn't want to admit he was impressed, but knowing Gill was in better straits helped. He looked to Daniel, who continued with the introductions as if they had never been interrupted.
"This is Rose Clowderbock, our Threat Assessment Liaison, Major Carter, and um, Teal'c."
"--And?" Mac waited. Daniel smiled nervously.
"--And we're here because you two are in WAY over your heads."
Gillian was offered a seat and took it, sitting beside her husband at the end of the table.
"I knew we were the minute I saw those symbols and those other glyphs,” She glanced back at the three people sitting across from her. “And if the military is involved--”
MacGyver reached down to touch his wife’s hand. “We have a lot of questions but the military isn’t exactly known for its honesty.” He saw O’Neill raise an eyebrow.
“No offense intended Colonel but I’ve dealt with the government before and they operate strictly on a ‘need to know’ basis. Right now we need to know what it was we found and why you’re here.”
Daniel cleared his throat. “We’ll get to that, but right now we need to know if anything else was in that chamber.”
Gillian opened her mouth to answer when the tent flaps parted and Captain Wainwright came back in. He had a small cooler in his hands and set it down at Gillian’s feet.
“Your cold drinks ma’am,” He also pulled a small black bag from his shoulder and handed it to her. “In here you’ll find everything you need to freshen up.” He gave a quick salute to the colonel before once again leaving.
She bent down and opened the cooler; it was loaded with water and bottles of juice.
“Wow, talk about fast service,” She lifted her head and took out bottles of water, passing them around. “Here, I think we all could use this about now.” The bottle of water was opened and she drank heartily from it before pressing the cool bottle to her forehead.
“To answer your question Dr. Jackson; we found what look like machine parts.”
She glanced at her husband, “Right? You got a better look at them than I did.”
MacGyver set his half-empty bottle of water on the table. “It was a panel, wiring, circuit boards. It seemed to be pieces of some sort of machine, but made of gold. Not exactly the kind of thing you expect to find in an ancient temple.”
Daniel pulled out a sheaf of glossy photos and set them in front of Gill.
"Can you set these down in the order they are in the temple?"
"Why can't we just go look at it?" Gill demanded. Jack shook his head.
"Doctor MacGyver, no offense, but whatever killed that man in the temple isn't something you'd want to risk, especially now. Trust me, whatever help you can give Daniel with these photos is a damned good start."
Mac gave his wife a thoughtful nod. Jack turned to Rose and Carter.
"Carter, take Teal'c and make a sweep--Rose, see if Wainwright's got any updates on traffic in the area, civilian OR military."
Gillian watched the three people leave the tent before taking the photos. She looked through the pile sorting them from memory.
"Okay, these are on the east side of the obelisk." She handed the pile to Daniel.
"The strange symbols."
The photos were on the same dagger-like lettering and she watched as Daniel's eyes grew round. "What is it?”
"Nothing to worry about right now, what about those other ones?" Daniel set the pile aside and leaned towards her as she sorted more photos.
"Those are on two sides, and the last side has an Egyptian inscription in which the word Chaapa'ai is used quite often." Gillian showed him the circle symbol.
“That’s what this circle means, right?"
Daniel smiled but didn't answer the question directly. Jack strolled over and leaned on the table.
"Daniel?"
"Three, Jack--two variants of Egyptian and--"
"--Goa’uld. I see the co-ordinates-- got a point of origin?"
"It's not Earth and it's not Abydos, so--"
"Whoah, whoah, time out!" Mac called in irritation.
"Co-ordinates imply a map, and I don't see anything that looks remotely like one."
Jack smiled briefly and grimly.
"You want the map, MacGyver, look straight up."
Gillian creased her brow as she glanced at her husband. "Wait a minute here--look up?” She shook her head. “Are you saying those groups of seven markings are constellations?"
She thought of the word Chaapa’ai and looked down at the photo of the circle with the etchings carved into it.
“Seven,” The funny language on that one side of the obelisk came back to her.
“Those symbols--there’s nothing like them anywhere; even Doctor Baum had never seen before.”
Gillian looked between Jack and Daniel waiting for one of them to answer.
"Look, Doctor MacKenzie-MacGyver,” Jack Began quietly, “You seem like a nice lady, and I'm sorry you've had a rough time these last two days, but this is NOT the sort of thing you've got clearance for.”
Gill shot him a sharp look. “It’s just MacGyver actually, but why don’t we leave it at Gillian?”
He winced a little, but held his ground, glancing at Mac.
"While we appreciate everything you've done so far--"
"--We're going to need more," Daniel finished with a sigh. Jack glared at him. Daniel pointed to the photo of the symbols.
"Jack, I know you've gotten spoiled thinking I can do it all, but the fact remains that Gillian has FAR more expertise in this dialect than I do."
Both of Gillian's eyebrows went up as she crossed her arms over her chest.
"Well Colonel, it seems as if I can be of some use to you after all. And as for the clearance, I'm sure both my husband and I could get it easily. The Phoenix Foundation has worked with the government on more than one occasion; a lot of the missions we've done aren’t exactly official."
Mac nodded as he looked at Jack. "If it wasn't for Gillian's phone call to Pete you folks wouldn't even have known about this Colonel."
He stood up. "Like it or not we’re here and you can't just white wash over that fact in a sea of cholera." His gaze shifted to Daniel.
"Wouldn't it be better if we teamed up to figure all this out?"
"No!" Jack snapped, running a hand through his hair. He drew in a deep breath as Rose stepped in, a sheaf of papers in her hand.
"Colonel, we've had visitors prior to the dig team and evidence of NID left and right," she gently broke into the strained silence. Daniel looked up absently.
"Great, that's just GREAT. Anything else?"
"The MacGyvers check out completely. Hammond's given them authorization for THE briefing--" seeing the look in Jack's eyes, she bit her lip, "Sorry about jumping your decision, but she's the only authority on the site now, and his record is pretty impressive."
Shooting Rose a soft glare, Jack looked back at the waiting couple.
"THE briefing--Daniel, I hope you brought your PowerPoint--"
*** *** ***
Gillian came down the stairs smiling; the shower felt fantastic as did the cool air that filled the suite. She had put on jean shorts and a blue tank top and now joined the waiting group of people in the living room.
“Hi, sorry I’m holding things up here. I phoned room service and ordered some snacks for everyone; I figured we would need them after all the fun we just had on Plantation Island,” She sat down on the couch beside her husband.
Daniel sat in a chair across the coffee table and she smiled at him.
“Okay Daniel, any time you’d like to start.”
Daniel futzed carefully with the laptop while Rose sat primly near Jack's left, trying very hard not to let her thigh press his. Memories of the discussion in the elevator still had her tingling.
//Oy! Egypt! Friggin heat, civilians, and the NID--what the hell does this trip have in it for ME?// Jack had groused.
//Well, I could belly dance for you--// Rose remembered how quickly he'd yanked her to him, kissed her senseless. Typical Jack, zero to hard in seconds--
Her attention came back to the here and now as Daniel flashed a picture of the Gate on the laptop screen.
"This is an artifact from the 1928 dig at Giza--" Daniel began carefully.
Gillian sat up immediately, scooting to the end of the couch when she saw the gate.
"Oh my God--" The resemblance to the symbol on the obelisk had her slightly shaken; she lifted her head to gaze at Daniel.
"I remember reading some of your theories Daniel, the ones about the Giza pyramids being landing pedestals."
She folded her hands in her lap trying to quiet the slight tremble that started in them.
"That theory has something to do with that, doesn't it?"
Daniel nodded, both pleased and embarrassed; Mac's brows drew together.
"It looks," he observed carefully, "like the world's biggest decoder ring."
Gill nudged him, but Jack leaned forward and nodded, a smirk on his face.
"I see brains are catching---bingo. Decoder ring is about the size of it."
Daniel nodded, "Absolutely. This is known as the Stargate, or the Chaapa’ai. There are seven exposed chevrons around the outer ring, and a total of 39 on the inner ring. The inner one spins and the chevrons lock on them to establish a base point for telemetry."
"Seven points? But that would mean--" Mac frowned again. Jack nodded and both men looked up.
Daniel grinned, a wide smile on his face. “That would mean that this giant decoder ring can transport anyone that walks through it to any point throughout the galaxy.”
The words hung in the air as the couple took them in and glanced at one another. MacGyver looked skeptical but his wife had an expression of awe and amazement.
“Chaapa’ai--the source of power for the gods.” She swallowed hard, her mouth feeling dry. “So the group of seven symbols are destinations and those other symbols are dialect from an--alien race?”
"What it MEANS is that we have a device of great power and responsibility."
Daniel admitted, pushing his glasses up. Jack grunted.
"We've been sending teams through it to explore and establish contact with other--societies, as it were," Jack told them.
"We come in peace?" Mac asked, a little sourly. Jack lifted his chin and looked down his nose at the younger man.
"We've come back in pieces, pal, so save me the grief, all right? Point is, the Gate is a nifty device, and it's up to the SGC to make sure it’s not going to be in the wrong hands. As far as anyone in this room is concerned, the NID are definitely the wrong hands."
Glancing at the photo on the screen once more, Gillian sighed playing nervously with her fingers.
"If this group is as bad as you say---" She shook her head sighing.
"We're in trouble, aren't we? Because of what we saw and found and once we translate that obelisk we're going to be number one on their hit list, aren't we?"
Jack sighed.
"I won't lie--it doesn't look good. You're an expert, but the NID wouldn't think twice about eliminating you, Gillian."
"Jack--Un, colonel, " Rose blushed at her slip, but continued, "Why can't we just keep them in protective custody?"
"For the rest of their lives? No, we've got to get Simmons to tip his hand. If we can do that, the MacGyver’s can get back to a normal life."
Mac hadn't missed the subtle under text of the two people, and shot a significant look at Gill, who nodded. The colonel and his aide were an item--it was clear in the way they were avoiding each other.
"Tip his hand? And how exactly are we going to do that Colonel?" Gillian crossed her arms over her chest as she hugged herself, trying to calm down. "Whatever that obelisk says is only going to put both of us in worst danger." She bit her lip, trying not to get upset as she leaned against Mac.
"How can we possibly get the NID to show us their cards?"
Daniel sat back in his chair watching his distraught colleague. He understood only too well how big secrets could make it difficult to lead a normal life. If they didn't find a way to help this couple they would spend the rest of their lives in hiding or some protection program.
"Umm--I don't mean to sound like a cliché here, but we'll find a way out of this; there has to be one."
He watched Mac nod as he put his arm around his wife. Something about the expression on the blond man's face made Daniel straighten his spine as he slowly turned to look at Jack; his blue eyes widening.
"Oh God, that's it."
"What's it?"
"Jack, you can throw them off the trail. A diversion!"
"Daniel, get back to me when you're making sense--" came the grumble, but Rose watched as Daniel reached out and grabbed Jack's chin.
"Classic features--nose is a little broader than MacGyver's, and the eyebrow scar needs correcting, but the eye color is a match, and certainly the basic structure is the same--"
"Daniel?" Jack gave his colleague the What-are-you-talking-about tone of voice. Mac too, looked puzzled. Gill's eyes widened.
"Wait a minute, just because there's a passing resemblance--"
"--A resemblance we could make into a very close MATCH, Daniel you're a GENIUS!" Rose gasped. Jack pulled his chin free of Daniel's hand and growled.
"Why do I get the feeling I'm going to HATE this?"
"You're going to hate this? What about ME?" Mac touched his hair, running his hand through his shoulder length blond hair as he glanced at Jack's short hair. "I mean--is this even going to be possible?"
"Well with the help of a few chemicals." Gillian looked Jack over carefully.
"I bet the two of you are even the same size, clothes wise." She snickered, her hand touching her mouth.
"Colonel we’re going to have to bleach your hair blond and Mac we're going to have to dye yours grey."
"Oh terrific, turn me into an old man!" Mac groaned as he leaned back against the couch, slapping his hand over his eyes.
Jack closed his, thinking hard and fast.
"If we hustle, we could be in place by 1300 today--take the MacGyver’s to the SGC, and I could lead Simmons around until the right opportunity presented itself. Rose, get Hammond on a secure line, and find out who's got security detail in TDY. A friggin blond--crap, my mother will have a fit."
"Sir?" Rose eyed him dubiously. Jack shot her a look that had her out of the room in seconds. Daniel turned to MacGyver.
"It's like this--if you come back with us to the SGC, then the NID figure it's Jack, and no harm, no foul. Jack stays with your wife--"
"Hold it RIGHT there!" Mac broke in. "Stay with my wife?" He licked his lips and pressed them together.
"As in--In our house? In my clothes? Driving my Corvette?"
MacGyver looked at Jack; the Corvette statement had him grinning.
"And I'm supposed to be you? Walk around the SGC all grey haired in a uniform?"
The idea of the colonel posing as her husband to that degree made Gillian clear her throat, "You don't mean that far do you? But that would mean we'd have to pose as husband and wife?"
"If we want the deception to work--the NID surveillance is pretty thorough--" Daniel admitted, blushing. Jack looked distinctly uncomfortable, Mac was positively furious.
"You expect they'll try and grab you--me, and Gill?"
Rose came back into the room just as MacGyver asked his question and sat down, shifting a little on the couch.
"That's a standard SOP for the NID. They'd grab the both of you, most likely take you to a secure location, grill you ‘til you crack using whatever means at their disposal and then decide whether or not to exterminate you."
She watched as Gillian's eyes widened. "Sorry but that is how they operate."
Her gaze bounced between MacGyver and Jack, "If the two of you aren't convincing than that make things even worse, they'll take you out then and there."
Her serious tone made Gillian shudder; she turned to look at her husband.
"We have no choice Mac. You do have Operative experience but these guys sound like they play by a whole different set of rules." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly as her gaze fell on Jack and Rose.
"Colonel, I think we need to talk about a few things--the four of us."
Jack waved to Daniel, who took the hint with good grace. He scooped up the laptop and left quietly while Rose bit her lip. Mac shook his head in the embarrassed pause.
"I have to be you, and you have to be me--but let's get a few things straight. I'm NOT happy about it, not one DAMNED bit. My wife is pregnant and that's PARAMOUNT right now."
Jack gave a slow nod.
Rose drew in a deep breath.
"We're all adults here, and the truth is that we all know what's at stake. Mr. MacGyver, I'm going to coach you in how to be the colonel. He and I have a good relationship and no one will think it odd if I'm with you consistently. Mrs. MacGyver, it will be your job to groom the colonel to stand in for your husband."
Jack gritted his teeth, meeting the eyes of the man sitting across from him.
"Strictly a job, you understand--this is deadly serious here, nothing remotely smug.”
Mac nodded. "I understand that Colonel and you're right but on a more personal level--" He folded his hands together. "Forgive me if this is rather abrupt but, you and Ms. Clowderbock's relationship off the base." He cleared his throat. "If the NID is going to be monitoring us--I'll have to play along just as you and Gillian will have to back in LA."
Gillian turned to look at Jack and her cheeks grew warm at the idea of having a substitute husband. "I'll help the colonel every way I can, what's first on the list?"
Rose shot the other woman a patient look.
"Haircuts. Jack needs to be seen getting a trim, and Mr. MacGyver should get his done here in the room so no one watching suspects his hair color is going to change. After that we'll see about some of the more personal details--clothing, wedding ring, eyebrow--"
"I'm not taking off my wedding ring!" Mac scowled. Jack's expression gentled. He nodded with his chin to the chain Mac wore.
“Stick it on that--we can scrounge a substitute for me."
Gillian touched her husband's hand gently.
"Mac--you have to. Jack isn't wearing a wedding ring," She lifted his left hand and slipped it off his finger. "Colonel can I borrow your tags?"
Jack slipped the tags from around his neck, handing them to her. She opened the clasp sliding the ring down behind the metal duo.
"Here, give me your chain."
MacGyver fished his silver chain out from under his t-shirt and gave it to his wife. Gillian passed it to Jack.
"Here you go Colonel."
Jack slipped it on, giving a shrug. Rose watched the exchange with wry amusement.
"It's a start. Mr. MacGyver, I hope you're an early riser--the colonel's up rain or shine at five thirty. He does three hundred crunches, so be warned."
Mac shot a snide look at Jack, who made a smug face.
“Razor or electric--I might as well know the worst--" he grumbled, staring at Mac's chin.
"Razor."
Mac took the dog tags from his wife and slipped them over his head looking down at them. "Great, I've enlisted.”
He sat back against the couch an eyed Jack.
“But Colonel, you can’t get your hair cut in public, I do. If I suddenly have short hair and the NID didn’t seem me get it cut they’re going to know something’s up.” He glanced at his wife.
“There’s a barbershop in the lobby. We’ll have to make a lot of noise when we go down there.”
His wife nodded her head in agreement as Mac focused his attention back to Jack.
“You said you wanted to know the worst, so what else do you need to know that my wife might not be able to tell you?”
Jack shot a look at Rose, who understood. She waved to Gill.
"We need to give them some privacy. Let's go talk ourselves--" Rose urged. With trepidation, Gill followed her out. Jack locked gazes with Mac.
"Let's say it and get it out of the way. No sex. That being the case, I sleep on the left side of the bed, I don't use aftershave, I tend to forget about the toilet seat, and yeah, I spend a LOT of my free time with Rose. She's going to harp on that toilet seat thing."
Mac saw the seriousness in Jack's statement and burst out laughing, the air in the room growing less tense.
"Gill does too so be prepared for that. And as for the sex you're right, but keep in mind that the NID are going to expect us to act like we always do. Gillian and I are pretty openly affectionate with each other; she likes to sit on my lap and cuddle up to me when we go to bed. I understand you'll have to do that too, just like I'll have to do that to Rose if you can't handle that then you better just deck me now and get it out of your system."
Jack closed his eyes patiently for a moment. When he opened them again, he sighed.
"I'll just let your wife take the lead on things--she looks like she's used to doing that anyway. Rose can handle herself, and any on base on duty PDAs are out anyway so you'll have an easier time of it. It's the going blond part that has ME worried."
"Yeah, like I'm crazy about the grey!" came the retort. Jack rolled his eyes.
"I EARNED it--try keeping Daniel from getting killed, or Carter from blowing us up--"
"That'd probably turn my hair the color of a nickel too."
Mac shook his head pursing his mouth.
"Although I'm surprised I'm not considering all the fun I've had as an Operative."
He leaned forward resting his elbows on his knees. "The eyebrow--how did you get that? Was it something you did on another planet?"
The words left his mouth and he chuckled. "God that sounds so weird and so unbelievable, no wonder the Pentagon has kept the gate a secret."
*** *** ***
The conversation went on; in the next room, Gill looked at Rose and a blush crossed her face.
"Oh God--we're going to have to be convincing--the question is, HOW convincing?"
Rose patted her hand. "Just think of it as the best acting job you'll ever be asked to do."
"THAT convincing?" Gillian shook her head and started snickering.
"Rose I don't know about this. I mean Mac and I are very comfortable around each other. I can walk into his office and sit on his lap without blinking an eye! There's something about Jack that intimidates me. How am I going to be able to walk in and just plop my butt down on his lap like nothing?"
Rose shrugged, a little hurt but able to keep a check on it.
"Do what needs to be done, Mrs. MacGyver--Jack's not adverse to affection, trust me, trust him. I wouldn't feed him any burritos though and one compound word for you—“
“What's that?"
"Toilet seat."
"Geez, him too? It must be a man thing,” Gillian saw the flicker of hurt in Rose’s blue eyes and she reached out and touched her hand.
“Drop the Mrs. MacGyver, it’s just Gill okay.” She gave Rose’s hand a squeeze. “I know this is hard, trust me it is for me too and the idea of Mac having to share a bed with you and pretend to be in love with you has my heart aching.”
Gillian sighed trying to keep her emotions under control. “I’m scared to death Rose and the last thing I want to be is separated from him.”
Rose shot a significant look at Gill's midriff.
"So I could guess--only a few months more, huh?"
"Four or so--" Gill admitted.
"Your first?"
"Yes."
Rose beamed; her eyes bright.
"How wonderful. Jack will take good care of you. He knows about that sort of thing."
Gill was on the verge of asking, but wasn't sure what to say. She shook her head, there were things she needed to know about Jack but prying into his personal life wasn't one of them.
A grin suddenly moved across her face. "You and Jack--not a whole lot of people know about that huh? I mean other than the members of the team? Mac and I both noticed how the two of you kept your distance but a blind man can see how crazy he is about you."
Rose blushed a little, and nodded once.
"Since we work together, a relationship like ours is frowned on--we're keeping it very low-key, but some folks can't help but know."
*** *** ***
The gold elevator doors parted as the couple looked out across the beige colored carpeting.
The lobby of the hotel had simple décor consisting mostly of a massive round shiny wooden desk sitting in the very center with a huge sparkling chandelier above it and various pictures of the Nile and its surroundings covering the walls.
On the far side of the room stood a pair of glass doors marked BARBER with an OPEN sign sitting just above the knobs.
MacGyver sighed as they left the elevator, standing beside it.
“I can’t do this Gillian, I haven’t cut my hair in a long time and I don’t want to NOW.”
Gillian put her arm around his waist as she stared into his pensive face, obviously more than the haircut troubled him and she could see it.
“Baby I know this is hard, and if you think you’re the only one that has doubts, think again.” She reached up and ran her fingers down the blond hair touching his shoulders.
“It’ll grow back in no time at all, you’ll see.”
“It’s not the hair that I’m upset about,” Mac touched her stomach, running his hand over it gently. “I’ll be away from you and running out on you at a time like this—I feel like the world’s biggest jerk.”
“Everything’s going all right, Melissa said so,” Gillian pressed her hand against his.
“Jack will take good care of me, he’ll watch out for me just like you would if you were here.”
“He’s not supposed to be the one taking care of you, I am.”
“And you do.” Gillian lifted his chin. “Who makes sure I eat right and get lots of rest? Who’s the one that makes sure I take my vitamins and drink plenty of water?” She chuckled. “And who’s the one that gets me chili dogs and onion rings when I have a craving?”
MacGyver burst out laughing and hugged his wife, burying his face in her hair.
“All right, you’ve made your point.” He closed his eyes, enjoying the feel of her in his arms.
“I suppose we better do this.”
“Don’t worry, it’ll be okay.” She pulled back from the hug. “You’ll have to let it get long again…your hair being short is going to make Pete way too happy.”
“You’re right, we can’t have that.” Mac shook his head and winked at her. “Time for the big show.”
Gillian nodded as her husband suddenly frowned, stomping across the carpeting.
“I don’t care what your reasons are! I’m not doing it!”
The Concierge, a stout black-haired, olive skinned man in a black suit turned around, his dark eyes round.
“Mac you’re being so childish!”
Gillian chased after him and grabbed him by his t-shirt, spinning him around.
“It’s 105 out there, tomorrow it’s going to be 108 and the temperature’s only going to keep climbing! They’re predicting it’ll be 111 by the end of the week!”
MacGyver put planted his fists on his hips, a deep scowl spreading across his face. “So I’ll put it in a pony tail!”
“A pony tail won’t be good enough! You’ve seen what I have to do to mine! I have to put it in a bun on top of my head! It’s a lot of work and you’re hair isn’t even long enough. All it’s doing it make you hot and uncomfortable and I’m tired of hearing you complain about it! The best thing for you to do is take Dr. Baum’s advice and get it cut!”
He crossed his arms over his chest. “This isn’t fair, Gill!”
Gillian turned him around and gave him a little nudge towards the barber shop.
“Life isn’t fair and you know it, go on.”
“Yeah yeah, I’m going,” Mac muttered under his breath as he walked over to the glass doors and opened them.
A dark haired man in a white coat smiled as he picked up a brush and dusted off the seat.
“Good afternoon! How may I help you?”
Gillian closed the doors. “My husband needs a hair cut.”
“Of course, please be seated.”
He extended his hand towards the chair and Mac sighed heavily as he sat down. A spray bottle of water was picked up and began wetting down his hair.
“Umm before you do that can I do something?”
“Of course madam.” He stepped back and let Gillian stand directly behind her husband.
“What are you going to do Gill?”
“You’ll see,” Gillian gathered a thick lock of his hair and divided it into three sections; she made a quick braid and reached up to her own hair, pulling out a silver barrette. She used it to tie the braid off and smiled at the barber.
“May I borrow your scissors?”
The barber placed them gently in her palm and watched as she snipped off the braid.
“There.” Gillian handed the scissors back to the barber as she walked around the chair and picked up her husband’s hand. She wrapped the braid around the barrette and set it in his hand. “A little souvenir of your cut.”
Mac looked down at the braid and smiled crookedly. “Thanks.”
Gillian shot him a wink. “Okay Mr. Barber, cut it to just under his ears.”
“Yes Madam,” The barber began wetting down Mac’s hair and running a black comb through it.
*** *** ***
Mac kept his eyes closed the entire time, not wanting to see the butcher job that was currently happening to his hair. He felt the grip of his wife’s hand and heard the snipping of the scissors.
“Okay I think that about does it,” The barber announced as he set down his comb and scissors and unbuttoned the gown over MacGyver’s shirt. He lifted it off him and shook it out.
“Well?”
Gillian stared at her husband a smile coming to her face. “Oh my God!” His hair was now under his ears; the front of it was tousled and spiked a little.
“What?” Mac didn’t want to open his eyes, afraid of what he would see in the mirror that sat in front of him.
“Well look and you’ll find out!” He heard his wife state as he took a deep breath and opened his eyes.
“Whoa!” Mac’s eyes widened as he turned his head from side to side.
“Man he chopped it good! I haven’t had my hair this short in years!”
“Yeah it is short but you look adorable,” Gillian leaned forward and touched his now exposed neck. “Much easier access for nibbling.”
Mac felt his face grow warm as he looked at the barber. “You did a nice job, thank you.”
He leaned back and stuck his hand in his pocket, pulling out a twenty and handing it to him.
“It was my pleasure,” He gave MacGyver a slight bow before picking up a large shaving brush. “Just allow me to make sure you are hair free around your neck.” He brushed it across the back of Mac’s neck.
Gillian smiled at the barber and shook his hand. “Thank you very much.”
“Of course Madam,” The barber opened the door and stepped aside.
“Come on Gill, let’s go back upstairs,” Mac took a hold of her hand and the couple left the shop.
*** *** ***
“I don’t like this, not one DAMNED bit—“ Jack growled. He paced, as he often did when upset, and ran a hand through his hair. Rose stood in the middle of the hotel suite, paper bag in her hands.
“Jack, get a grip. You’ve spent a career doing things you didn’t like, and this is just one more. At the moment, we’ve got to get to work, so either you co-operate, or you can do this yourself.”
He stopped and tried to glare at the petite woman arching an eyebrow at him. She lifted her chin and stared back, blue eyes confident.
“You know I haven’t a clue about dyeing my hair. Hell, if I’d had any, I wouldn’t be grey NOW,” he growled. Rose giggled and moved forward, reaching a hand up to touch the locks in question. The touch turned into a gentle caress.
“To be completely honest, Jack, your hair is sexy. I LOVE how it feels, and silver looks fantastic with those big brown teddy bear eyes of yours—“ she cooed.
“Teddy bear eyes?” he snorted, not completely convinced, but melting a bit at the look on Rose’s face. She licked her lower lip and nodded.
“Totally stunning. So believe me, changing you from a Silver Fox to a Beverly Hills Blonde is going to be tough on me too.”
“A WHAT?” Jack reached for the paper bag and yanked the box out; the male
model on the package stood in a languid pose that was supposed to look confidently
sexy, and his hair was perfectly arranged.
“Beverly Hills Blonde? I will NEVER hear the friggin’ END of this, will I? Crap! You’ve got a standing order that once we’re done this damned box makes it to the incinerator ASAP.”
Rose kept a straight face—barely. She nodded and retrieved the dye, opening it carefully.
“Go take a shower and wash your hair, Jack. When you’re done, come on back out here to the living room,” she ordered. He drew in a deep breath, his big chest expanding even as his mouth tightened into a hard line.
“Crap.” Came his final whine.
*** *** ***
Rose leaned over him, and her chest brushed his cheek.
“Okay, there are parts of this process I DON’T mind—“ Jack announced gruffly, trying to nuzzle. Rose gently pulled on his ear and stepped back.
“Timing, flyboy—I need to concentrate. Too much time and you’d end up looking like Billy Idol instead of MacGyver.”
“Ew.”
“Hand OFF the ass, Jack—this isn’t the moment to cop a feel!”
“So stop wriggling it within easy reach—ah geez this stuff STINKS!”
“It’s the ammonia, sorry about that—“
Jack closed his eyes, letting Rose fuss over him, secretly enjoying her touch, her nearness—it was a rare treat to be able to let his guard down. Rose hummed.
“Okay, time to rinse and neutralize and THEN we can take a look at your eyebrows.”
“Oh yeah—“ he touched the left one, wincing a bit while Rose massaged something sweet-smelling into his scalp.
“Okay—once this head of yours dries you ought to be blonde. Look at me—“
She caught his chin in her hand and studied his face with intensity; Jack smiled.
“Jack darling, don’t take this personally but I hate you—you have the most GORGEOUS eyelashes—okay, let’s try this---“
She touched his left eyebrow gently while he tried to hold still.
“I mean it’s not fair—you’re already handsome, but throw in those heart-breaker
eyes and thick lashes too—“ Rose whimpered a little, winking
at him. Jack gave a slightly strangled sigh.
“Flattery will get you LAID, woman—“
“Okay, let’s have a look. Jack, you’re going to have to be alert about touching up that brow—almost any good brown mascara will do, and Gillian will help you. Thank God we don’t have to worry about your chest hair—“
Jack peered into the hand mirror she held up. He winced.
“Damn! I’ve been Californicated—“
“Jack! It rinses out in six to eight weeks, so you’ll be back to your suave, hockey bum self in about two months, okay?”
He pushed the mirror aside and reached for her. The kiss was hot and completely wanton; Rose moaned into his mouth. As he broke away, he sighed.
“ME. Just so you remember. Let’s go get this show on the road.”