“Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee…”

  The Stargate’s wormhole twirled and swirled around Sister Helena; stars and planets whizzed past in a dazzling display of blue light. As the last words of her Hail Mary echoed in her mind, she felt a sudden shift and the cool damp air of P4X-987 enveloped her. The Stargate was in a large clearing in a valley. Several large mountains covered in trees enveloped the valley. Colonel Larkin appeared, and the Stargate deactivated. SG-24 made their way down the stone steps from the Stargate, the ancient stones cool beneath their boots. General Carter had sent a MALP on ahead to the planet to check for viability and bandits. The MALP was waiting for them at the foot of the stairs. They saw the well-traveled path that General Carter had described, though fresh cut vegetation suggested that someone had maintained the path recently.

  “Sir, did Commander MacGregor tell you about the whereabouts of SG-8? I didn’t see them at the Gate Room when we departed.

  “Yes,” Colonel Larkin replied. “They are going to remain on Zulu Station for a brief time and then escort the prisoners to a POW camp at the Alpha Site.”

  Fairbairn nodded. “I was hoping to see Major Braden before we left. I wanted to say goodbye.”

  Colonel Larkin gave a sympathetic smile. “I understand, Fairbairn. It’s never easy when comrades are assigned different tasks. Braden spoke highly of you before we left.”

  A gentle smile touched Fairbairn’s lips. “Thank you, sir. I’ll make sure to send him a message to wish him well.”

  “Good idea, Squadron Leader. I’m sure he’d appreciate that. But we must get on with our mission. Bjornson, take point again. Fairbairn, dial the Gate back to Earth so we can get our gear. Sister Helena, can you guide the MALP?” Colonel Larkin’s tone was brisk, professional, and tinged with underlying tension.

  “I can,” Sister Helena replied, a hint of determination in her voice.

  “Good. We’ll set up base camp about a half a klick outside the village until we can find a more permanent base. Understood?” Three heads silently nodded. “Fairbairn, dial the Gate.”

  As moved towards the DHD, four men emerged from the dense foliage, their faces stern and their weapons drawn. The leader’s eyes scanned SG-24 with a mixture of suspicion and curiosity. SG-24 instinctively raised their weapons, a tense standoff ensuing. Three men were armed with bows and arrows, the fourth was armed with a long sword.

  “Aw shit,” said Colonel Larkin. “Just when you thought it was safe, the knights who say ‘Ni’ arrived.” After a few moments of intense standoff between the two parties, Colonel Larkin attempted to break the ice with humor. “Look, fellas,” he chuckled, “there's been a big misunderstanding. We come in peace.” He flashed the Vulcan salute. “Dilly, dilly!”

  “I don't think they're buying it, sir,” said Fairbairn, eyes darting around.

  “Silence!” said the leader “Or will be forced to slay you! Colonel Larkin knew when to shut his mouth and this was one of those times. He shot a glance at his XO who shrugged as if to say “Oh well! At least you tried, sir.” One of the men, the youngest of the four, stared at Sister Helena. After some time, he spoke.

  “Is she real? Could she be here?” He took one hard look at the blonde woman. It was her all right. She was dressed in strange clothes, but it was her. “It is the lady!”

  “Edward, what are you talking about?” the leader asked, baffled.

  “The lady in brown, Godric! The one who has been appearing to Maerwynn!”

  “Are you believing her too, brother? The child has a wild imagination,” Godric replied.

  “Then why did she gather us together for the meeting she wanted us to be a part of?” Edward retorted.

  “We'll see what Simon has to say about this about you lot! Lower your weapons and come with us,” said Godric. Colonel Larkin and the team lowered their weapons. Godric motioned for them to follow him down the path.

  “Eleven Klicks! Oy!” Colonel Larkin said to himself out loud. He knew that that trip would take two hours at walking speed according to General O’Neill’s report on their mission to the planet.

  As they entered the village there was a commotion as people came out to see the newcomers. The sight of SG-24's green uniforms left them in shock. Were they the legendary SG-1 who had returned to vanquish a demon as they had done many years ago? Sister Helena saw the pedestal, the gallows block, and the church from her dreams, all now a stark reality. Sister Helena pinched herself to be sure; it was all real.

  The group arrived at a large, majestic building that was second in grandeur to that of the church. Godric ordered them to enter the building. A middle aged man sat at a desk. He had a rugged appearance, with long brown hair that had small streaks of grey in it, a beard and a mustache. He wore a large jewel attached to a golden chain around his neck, signifying his badge of office as Lord Mayor.

  Godric ordered SG-24 to halt and went up to the Lord Mayor, stood at attention and saluted. “Lord Mayor, these four have been found in front of the Circle of Darkness. They wear strange clothes.”

  “Godric, how many times have I told you have to tell you, it's not called the Circle of Darknes,” the Lord Mayor replied. That's what our ancestors called it. It’s called the Stargate.” The Lord mayor turned to Colonel Larkin, his eyes wary but polite. He had seen the clothes the strangers had worn once before. “You must forgive Godric. He’s a pragmatist.” The Lord Mayor extended his hand. “I am Simon, Lord Mayor of Eversham.”

  “Lieutenant Colonel Marcus Larkin, SG-24,” he said extending his own hand and shaking Simon’s. Simon’s grip was firm, but there was a hint of hesitation.

  “SG-24? What happened to those who came before…SG-1, they called themselves?” Simon asked, his curiosity piqued.

  “They're all right,” Colonel Larkin replied. “They send their best regards, especially General Samantha Carter.

  “General, you say?” Simon's eyes widened in amazement, a flicker of trust appearing.

  “Indeed! Let me introduce you to my team. This is Squadron Leader Isolde Fairbairn, my second in command and science office.

  Fairbairn curtsied. “A pleasure,” she said with a smile.

  “And this is my weapons specialist, Oversersjant Gunnar Bjornson.”

  The Norwegian bowed. “A pleasure to meet you,” he said.

  “And last but not least, Sister Helena of the Cross, my cultural advisor.” As Sister Helena began to curtsy, Simon went up to her and bowed, though his eyes held a cautious glint.

  “My lady, we are honored by your presence,” he said.

  Sister Helena I was speechless. “Why I'm delighted to be honored,” she replied. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Lord Mayor.”

  “Please call me Simon,” Simon said, relaxing slightly. “I am but a humble servant of the people of Eversham.”

  “Eversham? Is that the name of this planet or the village?” Sister Helen asked.

  “The village,” Simon replied. “As far as we know we're the only village on the planet.

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  “Though it might be possible that Sokar seeded other people on this planet in other places,” said Bjornsson.

  “We have done a few expeditions, but most of our explorers and cartographers were culled by the demon. Ever since SG-1 liberated us, we've devoted our resources to village defense,” Simon, explained.

  “A wise move,” said Colonel Larkin. We should be able to help with that.”

  “We could requisition a Puddle Jumper from the SGC to help with the task,” said Fairbairn.

  “Agreed. But our priority is the security of the village and the Stargate,” replied Colonel Larkin.

  “Understandable,” said Simon. “Come with me to the wardroom. We shall talk over light refreshments. He motioned for SG-24, Godric, and Edward to follow him. As they entered the wardroom, their eyes were immediately drawn to a large painting that dominated one wall. It was a masterpiece, capturing a moment of heroism and triumph. The painting depicted SG-1: Jack O'Neill, with his trademark confident stance; Samantha Carter, her eyes sharp and focused; Dr. Daniel Jackson, caught mid-gesture as he spoke passionately; and Teal'c, resolute and imposing, staff weapon at the ready.

  They were shown vanquishing the Unas in a fierce battle. The backdrop was the village of Eversham, its inhabitants looking on in awe and gratitude as the heroes freed them from the tyranny of the Goa'uld. The colors were vivid, the brushstrokes meticulous, bringing the scene to life in a way that words alone could never capture.

  “Not a bad painting,” said Bjornson, tilting his head.

  “At least it's accurate,” Colonel Larkin added.

  “What do you mean?” Sister Helena inquired.

  “I'm referring to a painting of Dr. Rodney McKay and General John Sheppard that hangs in a palace on a planet in the Pegasus Galaxy. It depicted Dr. McKay as a hero, with General Sheppard cowering him fear.”

  “That sounds…unlikely,” Fairbairn said, smiling.

  Colonel Larkin chuckled. “Yeah, it was quite the exaggeration. The actual events played out a bit differently. That painting did wonders for McKay's ego though.” He shuddered, remembering his own experiences with Dr. McKay.

  “I can imagine. But it's nice to see SG-1 being remembered for what they did,” said Bjornsson.

  “Indeed!” replied the Colonel. He turned to Simon. “It's a beautiful painting, Simon.”

  “Thank you, Colonel. When I was elected mayor, I had it commissioned. My wife, Mary, and I had to remember what SG-1 looked like. Fortunately for her it was very easy,” Simon replied, his caution easing.

  He motioned for SG-24, Godric, and Edward to sit down at the table. SG-24 took off their packs and weapons and sent them aside. They sat down and Simon went out of the room. He returned to moments later with his wife Mary, and a little girl. SG-24 stood as a sign of respect.

  Mary carried a flask of wine. She said it on the table and curtsied. Mary was a middle-aged woman, who had a trim figure, braided brown hair with streaks of grey intertwined in the braids, and green eyes. Her simple blue dress accentuated her elegance. “Hello. Nice to meet you,” she said shyly.

  The little girl came forward with a tray of small cakes. When she saw Sister Helena, her face lit up with joy. Sister Helena also recognized the little girl's face, and her face too lit up with joy. Sister Helen knelt to the girl’s level, her face expressing joy and love. The girl set the plate of cakes on the table and ran up to Sister Helena, her arms extended in a hug. The two shared a tender embrace.

  “Aww! Exclaimed Fairbairn.

  “Are you real?” asked the girl.

  “I am indeed!” replied Sister Helena.

  “But you wear strange clothes! I've seen you in a brown dress and a white cloak!”

  “I do wear those clothes. But this is my special habit for traveling with my friends,” Sister Helena gestured to her teammates. Sister Helena pointed to herself. “I’m Sister Helena of the Cross. What is your name?”

  “Maerwynn,” the girl said pointing to herself.

  “It is nice to finally meet you in person, Maerwynn,” said Sister Helena.

  “And you too!” responded Maerwynn. “Sister Helena, will you help us find our way again?”

  “My friends and I will do our best to help you and your people find the way again!” Sister Helena responded positively.

  Colonel Larkin grimaced. He did not see Sister Helena as a friend, only as a teammate and an outsider at that. Fairbairn gave him a look that said, “Just go with the flow sir. Work with the wee lass on her level.” So, Colonel Larkin nodded and gave a simple little smile. Maerwynn beamed back at him.

  “Thank you, Sister Helena, she explained.”

  “You're welcome,” the Carmelite replied.

  Simon smiled. “That's a good girl. Now run along and play.” Maerwynn curtsied and then left the room. SG-24 sat back down. Mary poured wine for her guests.

  Colonel Larkin, still curious about the girl, leaned forward. “Simon, if I may ask, is Maerwynn your daughter?”

  Simon exchanged a glance with Mary, who nodded with a warm smile. “Yes, Colonel. Maerwynn is our pride and joy.”

  Larkin nodded thoughtfully, his curiosity satisfied, as he reached for the glass of wine Mary had just poured.

  “Thank you for coming and responding to our plea, even if it was unorthodox.”

  “Totally understandable, Simon,” replied Colonel Larkin. Since SG-1 suggested you bury the gate after they left, they never gave you a way to contact us if the need arose.” Simon nodded. “From what Sister Helena has told me your people have lost their way.”

  “Yes. A few years ago, Father Anselm, who became our spiritual leader after the death after the death of Canon, God rest his soul…” he and Mary crossed themselves. Sister Helena did so too. The rest of SG-24 bowed their heads is a sign of respect. “…A couple of years ago he was reading a work by Ambrose. In it he said, ‘Where Peter is, there is the church.’ Since we have been cut off from Peter, especially after Sokar tainted our faith,” Simon said.

  “I see,” said Colonel Larkin.

  “I've been tasked with helping you and your people this world be reunited with our Holy Father and the faithful on earth,” said Sister Helena. “I'm not a theologian by any stretch of the imagination but I will do my best.”

  “Thank you, Sister,” said Simon. “I will see if we can meet with Father Anselm today.”

  “That would be good,” said Sister Helena.

  “Simon,” said Colonel Larkin, “Sister Helena also tells me that a beautiful woman has been visiting Eversham. From her communications with your daughter, she believes that this visitor is possibly a Goa’uld.”

  “A Goa…what?” asked Simon. Marcus realized that SG-1 never properly told Simon who what who or what a Goa’uld was. All they had seen was an Unas who had been blended with a Goa’uld, and it was an underling for Sokar. “The demons that SG-1 vanquished, they’re called Goa’uld. They’re snake like creatures that take other creatures as hosts against their will. The beautiful woman we believe is one of them.”

  Simon sighed. “She came about three months ago. She appeared to a shepherdess named Matilda one afternoon who was apparently praying at the time. The lady talked with her for a short time and told her that she would come in two days then left. Matilda told her friends who came with her from the next appearance. The lady came and visited with Matilda and her friends. From the reports I was getting, she was offering them a sense of purpose in life. The lady promised to appear to them on the 14th day of the month.” Sister Helena chuckled to herself. “She has so far kept her word but the latest words disturb me. They've challenged my authority and refused to work they said around in a commune for most of the day all their food is provided for them.”

  “That sounds fishy,” so Colonel Larkin, his expression darkening.

  “What disturbs me is that the lady claims she is from the heavens,” Simon added.

  “Back on Earth we have criteria for judging supernatural phenomena and already I'm getting some red flags. We’ll need to investigate further,” Sister Helena said glancing at Larkin to gage his reaction.

  “Agreed,” said Simon, nodding thoughtfully.

  “In the meantime we'll establish a presence here in the village. We could use some lodgings to establish a base, so if there's a cave you could suggest us to, we'd be grateful,” Colonel Larkin suggested.

  “I can provide you something with something better,” replied Simon. “The abandoned monastery next to the church. Ten years ago, we had a plague, and the monks went up into the hills to Canon’s hermitage and moved there. They revere him as a saint. You're welcome to use it.”

  “We are forever in your debt, Simon,” said Colonel Larkin, shaking his hand firmly.

  “Are there any other cop questions comments?” Simon asked. There were none. “Good. Colonel Larkin, feel free to please see me, Godric, Edward, Mary or myself if you need any assistance. “

  “We’ll keep that in mind,” said Colonel Larkin.

  “Meeting adjourned. Thank you, SG-24. Good luck and Godspeed.” The team members stood. Fairbairn went up to Colonel Larkin

  “Sir, we need to go back to the Stargate, check in and retrieve our gear,” she said.

  “Right. You and Bjornsson go back to the Gate and retrieve our gear,” said Colonel Larkin.

  “It’ll take about four hours round trip, sir” said Bjornson.

  “Let's see if we can use one of our favors.” Colonel Larkin. He went up to Simon. “Simon, my team needs to travel to the Stargate in short order. Can you spare us a method of transportation?”

  “Of course, Colonel,” Simon replied. He summoned Edward. “Edward, take these two and saddle mounts for them and you and accompany them to the Stargate.”

  “Yes, Simon,” replied Edward. “If you'll come with me.”

  “Fairbairn, Bjornson, General Carter wants us to have a team bonding session when we can. She wants us to play some poker, so make sure she packed the poker things and maybe some snacks,” said Colonel Larkin.

  “Aye sir,” Fairbairn replied.

  “Good luck,” said Sister Helena.

  “Thanks, Sister,” replied Bjornson. After Edward, Fairbairn and Bjornson had left Colonel Larkin spoke.

  “Sister, I'd like for us to do a little light recon around the village until Fairbairn and Bjornson or Father Anslem is ready to meet with us whichever comes first.

  “Sounds like a plan, sir. Lead the way,” said Sister Helena.

  As they walked through the village, Colonel Larkin couldn't help but feel the weight of his distrust towards sister Helena. He knew he needed to keep his personal feelings in check for the sake of the mission, but that was easier said than done.

  As they began their reconnaissance, the village's charm and simplicity were evident. Thatched-roofed cottages lined dirt streets and villagers went about their daily tasks with a sense of purpose. The towering church with its stained-glass windows stood as a testament to their faith. Larkin couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Despite the challenges and lingering distrust, he knew that this mission had the potential to make a real difference dash not for the villagers of Eversham, but for SG-24 as well.