Fic: The House That Sarah Built (McKay/Sheppard, PG13)
Title: The House That Sarah Built
Author: eviljr
Pairing: McShep
Rating: PG13
Recipient: threnodyjones
Spoilers: none
Summary: Rodney and John take a side to visit a little town called Eureka during a Christmas vacation. (SGA/Eureka crossover)
Author's Note: Much thanks to my beta's planetkiller and chattycatsmeow.
The House That Sarah Built
"I can't believe I let you talk me into this," Rodney grumbled with a patented sigh as he stared out the windshield.
John grinned as he coaxed the rented SUV up the mountain. "We both agreed to do this Rodney. It's on the way to Vancouver and we'll be at your sister's just in time for Christmas."
The scientist wrapped his arms tighter around himself and favored a worried glance out the side window. "It was not my idea," Rodney protested. "It was yours, and I do recall stating quite clearly I had no intention of going back there. You tricked me with sexual favors and coffee."
John smiled. "It's going to be great. You were having fun last night. At the hotel."
"Yes, well that was before this," he replied with a half handed gesture to the landscape.
The pair of men had set out from Cheyenne Mountain two days prior, making their way to the remote town of Eureka before heading up north to Vancouver. Now they cautiously moved through the four feet of snow a blizzard had dumped on them en route.
John shrugged. "Nothing this puppy can't handle," he said with a grin.
Rodney rolled his eyes. "This isn't exactly a puddle jumper, John. We can't just fly over this mess. And now I'm glad I can say I told you so. We should have just let the Daedalus beam us into Eureka."
"What fun would that be?" John replied. "This is so much more interesting, besides we're almost to there."
"Oh, joy," Rodney replied as the long, white highway gave way to a narrower lane. The SUV eased its way along the plowed road. The quaint street lights bouncing off the strategically placed Christmas decorations.
The pair of men leaned hastily forward as they drove steadily down the main street. "It's quiet," John commented. "And smaller then I expected."
"Now it is," Rodney replied but his voice trailed off. He surveyed the main street with wonder. It had been ten years since he had last set foot in the unusual town. The day he had left to join the research division of the Stargate project at the Pentagon has had been a satisfying yet bitter day.
John slowed, spotting the bright lights coming from a store front. "That place looks open. Some kind of diner.," he said, pulling into one of the many empty spots.
"Café Diem?" Rodney mulled, trying to peer into the fogged glass of the café.
"Sound familiar?" John asked, unbuckling and switching off the truck in one motion.
Rodney shook his head. "No, there was something else here when I was here last."
"Let's check it out," John said. "We can get something to eat and we need better directions to the bed and breakfast. The GPS is not working right in this weather anyway." He replied, exiting the truck.
Rodney sighed. Unhooking his seatbelt and yanking the door open, he joined John on the sidewalk.
The door chimed lightly as the sleigh bell jangled on the door. Rodney slid up next to John protectively as they entered the instant warmth of the diner.
A long counter to the left gave way to the charitable sized eating area. Small groups of two and three people were dashed about the room, chatting comfortably with hands wrapped around oversized ceramic mugs of steaming aromatic beverages. John took Rodney's still gloved hand in his own as they went to the counter and took up residence on two empty stools.
"I'll be right with you!" a voice called from beyond a swinging door with a port hole window just across from them.
Rodney slipped the zipper on his parka down as John removed his gloves. "Nice place," John commented, stealing another glance around.
Rodney shrugged as the door to the back room swung out and gave way to a generous sized man with longish, curly dark hair. He was wiping his hands on a pristine hand towel, his face in a wide smile. "Hi, I'm Vincent. What can I get fo-Rodney?" Vincent blurted catching the scientist's eye. "What are you doing here?"
John turned to Rodney. "You know each other?"
Rodney dry swallowed. "Hello, Vincent," he coughed. "It's been a long time."
Vincent nodded taking a quick stock of John. "Who's your friend?" he asked Rodney.
John put out his hand in offering. "John Sheppard. Are you a friend of Rodney's?"
Vincent placated them with a smile."You can say that. Although, I haven't heard boo from him since he left, what? Ten years ago? We didn't part on easy terms."
Rodney twitched nervously on the stool his feet dangling awkwardly. "Yes, well. It wasn't easy for me either Vincent."
"Right," the other man replied his eyes slightly glazed. "What brings you back to Eureka?"
John cleared his throat during the sudden unease. "We're on a road trip to Vancouver and thought we'd stop over. We're supposed to stay the night at the bed and breakfast."
"That might be a problem," a voice advised from behind them.
Rodney and John turned in unison to the sound. Two men had entered the diner, a wisp of winter air in their wake. One was a tall, wiry built man in jeans and an oversized dark sweater. He kicked his boots free of snow and polished off his dusting with a shake of his sandy colored hair. "There was an incident there a few days ago. It's kinda outta commission." he concluded. "I'm Jack Carter, the sheriff in Eureka." He hooked his thumb to point at his companion. "And this is Fargo." as if that was enough explanation.
The shorter, younger man was gripping a laptop in one hand, and pulled a skull cap from his head with the empty one. "Hi," he said. And made an ado with cleaning his lenses with his shirt fumbling with the items in his hands.
John smiled. "John Sheppard, Air Force. Out of commision?"
"Don't ask." Jack replied.
"Fire?"
"Not exactly," Jack said without elaborating. "It's classified."
"We have clearance at the highest levels," Sheppard assured.
"I'm sure you do," Jack said without elaborating. "What's the Air Force doing on my neck of the woods?"
John shook his head. "Just sight seeing Sheriff, nothing sinister."
"Hmm," Carter replied. "And your friend?" he asked looking to Rodney.
Rodney stood up and smirked. "I'm Dr. Rodney Mckay, scientist. I'm surprised you've never heard of me."
Fargo looked up. "THE Dr. McKay?"
Rodney smiled. "That's right."
Fargo grinned. "I heard you blew up a solar system."
John laughed, his head tilting back as he did. "They do know you around here."
"How did you know about that? It's classified." Rodney said, glaring at the younger man. "And it wasn't an entire solar system."
Fargo's mouth clamped shut and he shrugged.
"Well, we need to figure out where we're going for the night." John said. "I don't suppose there's a hotel in Eureka."
"Fraid not," Jack replied. "Eureka doesn't cater to tourists with Global Dynamic around."
John nodded. "Oh, yes. I know all about them."
Jack frowned slightly. "I'm sure you do. The closest town with suitable accommodations is about seventy miles over that mountain."
Rodney groaned. "This is a nightmare."
"I have an idea."
The three men turned to the voice. They had almost forgotten. "Yes?" Rodney said.
"You can stay with Vigo." Fargo said.
"The actor?" Rodney said. "You can't be serious. He lives here."
Fargo shook his head vehemently. "No, Vigo is a house. An AI house. Vigo stands for Very Important Guest Operations. It's a side project I've been working on."
"Like Sarah?" Carter asked and Fargo nodded at him.
"AI house?" Sheppard asked. "Is that like a smart house? Like Bill Gates' house?"
Fargo grinned. "Even better. Vigo is a state of the art system. I designed it to host for visiting dignitaries, generals, or whomever."
"Who's Sarah?" Rodney asked confused.
"My first AI house. Self Actuated Residential Automated Habitat or Sarah. I built her in an old bomb shelter."
"I live there," Carter added with a wide grin.
"Huh," Rodney replied skeptical. "How far is this AI guest room?"
"Vigo," Fargo corrected. "He's just around the corner. One problem though. I only built it with one bed."
Rodney blushed slightly and John possessively touched Rodney's arm. "That's not an issue."
Fargo and the Sheriff shared a knowing glance. "I see," Fargo replied. "So-?"
Rodney looked to John who shrugged. "Let's check it out."
Rodney rolled his eyes, pulling his parka into place as he motioned to Fargo. "After you wise one."
John shook his head and turned to Jack. "Nice meeting you, Sheriff," John said.
Carter nodded. "Same, if you're going to be around tomorrow I can give you the tour."
"That'd be great." Sheppard agreed pulling his coat into place and moving to catch up with his scientist.
~~~
"You've got to be kidding me." Rodney said staring out the windshield at the peeling paint and rusty roof of the low lying structure in front of them.
"Don't let the outside fool you," Fargo said. "It's much nicer inside."
"It looks like a condemned roadside public restroom," Rodney scoffed.
"Rodney," John said. "Let's go inside."
The trio opened the doors to exit the warmth of the truck. "Actually it's a decommissioned training facility," Fargo said. He held his laptop to him as they approached the building.
"It's small for a training facility." John commented.
"Well, size doesn't matter for this place." Fargo replied. "It was a virtual reality training complex."
"Really?" Rodney asked suddenly interested. "What happened to it?"
Fargo shrugged. "It was too expensive to keep up so Global shut it down. They moved to portable headsets instead."
The three men reached the flat, white door with a recently installed scanner. Fargo removed a plastic key FOB and slid it through the scanner. The door beeped then popped open. As they moved through the archway entrance a light glowed around them.
"What's that?" Rodney asked.
"That is Vigo scanning us."
"What?" Sheppard said taking a step back. "Why?"
"Nothing to worry about Colonel," Fargo replied. "It's part of the service."
"Service?" Rodney said. "What are you talking about?"
"Vigo is designed to be a full service guest house. The system is preprogrammed with information on the guests. Likes, dislikes, etc and when they enter they're scanned. Vigo pulls up its file on the guests and customizes itself." Fargo tapped on his laptop then looked up again. "I really just took the existing program for the reality training course and modified it.
"Like a car," John said.
"Right," Fargo said. "I entered everything into its system on the way over. Well, what I know anyway..." he said. "Shall we?"
Rodney and John eased into the room further, making their way through the pristine entrance that served more or less as a mud room. They kicked off their boots placing them aside.
John took lead as Rodney watched from his shoulder as they walked into the living area. A spacious layout was cordoned off in sections by furniture. An overstuffed couch with plasma TV, a dining area with sparkling kitchenette. Further back they could see the outline of a king sized bed and a walled area for what served as the bath. Everything was straight off the cover of Better Homes and Gardens. Muted colors, in complimentary reds and tans. Even the decorative touches screamed placated but sensible and appealing.
"Wow," John commented. "This is amazing."
"Welcome to Vigo," Fargo beamed. "Vigo, say hello to our guests."
"Welcome, Dr. Mckay, Colonel Sheppard." a light female voice replied.
"Vigo has a girl's voice," John commented.
Fargo's face pinched slightly. "Yes. The programming for Vigo technically isn't ready. I'm still working out the kinks on that, so it's Sarah speaking right now. I have the guest operations systems going through her until Vigo is complete. I told her to act like Vigo," he confirmed.
John laughed. "Is that ok with you Sarah?"
"Not particularly, Colonel Sheppard but it is well within my capabilities to run the functions of Vigo, as well Sheriff Carter's residence."
"Sounds good to me," John replied.
Rodney spotted the fridge. "Is that thing stocked?"
Fargo grinned. "Come over here. You're going to love this." He walked over to the kitchen area, his two guests in his wake stopping a the wall next to the fridge. "This is a dumbwaiter," Fargo said pointing to the wall. "See this thin panel? It's linked to the computer system and is voice activated. You put your finger here," he said demonstrating. "Tell it what you want, and it will appear down here." He yanked on a silver handle that revealed an interior space in the wall. "Anything you can cook or get from the store. Ingredients, etc."
"You're kidding," Rodney said unbelieving.
"Not at all," Fargo said. "I have it hooked up to the stores that feed Café Diem, and they're infinite. Trust me."
John and Rodney looked at him with worried for his mental health glances. "You'll see." Fargo assured. "So, hmm. I need to get going but I will check in with you in the morning. You might want to get your overnight bags soon as there's a storm coming."
"Right," John agreed. "I'll grab'em from the truck. Do you want a ride back to the Café?"
Fargo shook his head. "No, it's ok. I'll just ride my scooter. He pulled a small box from his pocked and headed to the door."
Rodney looked to John one eyebrow going up. "Oh, I almost forgot something." Fargo said coming back. "Here's the guest FOB. It'll work for either of you, so you can come and go. You can leave it here when you're ready to leave. And if you would, please fill out the comment card on the night stand." He paused as though to say more, his feel shuffling. Then he turned quickly on his heels and left.
"Strange little man," Rodney said watching him go.
John smiled. "I better get the bags. Why don't you try out the dumb waiter, and see what we can have for dinner."
~~~
Dinner had consisted of generous portions of roast beef, baked potatoes, greens beans and a chocolate cake. Rodney had more fun running the dumbwaiter around then anything. After some chiding from Sarah he managed to pull together a fine meal.
After dutifully cleaning up the kitchenette area, and placing the dishes in the seemingly overpowered dish washer, the stuffed pair crashed on the inviting couch, settling into a movie.
"This might be better then a bed and breakfast," John advised.
"Hmm," Rodney replied. "I'd rather be on a beach, drinking fruity drinks through straws."
"Come on, Rodney," John said with a sigh. He chewed on his lip a moment. "Are you going to tell me about Vincent?"
Rodney looked away for a moment, his eyes feigning intent at the TV. "It was a long time ago, John."
John pulled on Rodney's foot, rubbing it.. "I'm not saying I'm jealo-"
"And why not?" Rodney asked indignant. "You don't think someone can pine for me?"
John frowned. "That's not what I meant Rodney."
Rodney pulled his feet away. "Sure. I'm tired and this movie is a little mundane. I'm going to bed." He stood up quickly and headed to the bedroom.
John's head flopped back into the couch closing his eyes. "Sarah, you can turn that off. I think we're done." The TV clicked off and John pulled himself up to follow the scientist.
~~~
John's hand was wrapped around Rodney's waist and he stirred slightly. A breeze caressed his hair. Atlantis? Did they leave a window open. He tried to open his eyes, sniffing at the surroundings and caught a hint of salt air. Wait. He bolted up from his position, rocking the sleeping scientist at the same time.
"Hey,' Rodney protested, sitting up. "Why did you do that?"
John was still taking in the immediate area. He placed a hand down, expecting a cool sheet but was greeted by sand sticking absently to his palm. "Rodney, something isn't right here."
"No kidding," Rodney replied. "Where are we?"
John shook his head. "We were in Eureka, right?"
Rodney nodded. "Yes, at least I think. I mean we weren't on a mission."
John jumped up. He was still wearing his pajama bottoms, and grey t-shirt. Rodney held up his hand as John pulled him to his feet. They were on a beach, an island setting. The warm sand giving way to rolling water to their left, a lush green tree line to the right. The sun was rising just at their eye line. "It feels real," John said.
Rodney pulled at the hem of his flannel pajamas. "Sarah?" he asked looking up. "Did you do this?"
"Good morning, Dr. McKay," the computer responded.
"What's going on, Sarah?" John asked.
"I am fulfilling Dr. McKay's request," she replied. "It is the primary goal of Vigo to satisfy our guests."
Rodney's eyes widened, catching John's eye. "I asked for the beach, remember?"
John nodded. "Is this real or some sort of illusion?"
Rodney closed his eyes. "I think it's a virtual reality program."
John smiled. "Then this isn't so bad. It's quite nice actually."
Rodney grimaced. "I wouldn't get so excited just yet."
"Why?"
Rodney held up his hand stepping forward a step and looking up. "Sarah? Where did you obtain the programming for this setting?"
"I accessed the protocol files from the VRT," Sarah replied. "This program was the closest example that fulfilled the wishes of Dr. McKay."
"That's what I was afraid of," Rodney said
"What is it Rodney?" John asked.
"It's a training program. A military training program."
"Oh," John replied. "Oh, that's not good, and I'm guessing it's not level one."
Rodney's made an "O" with his lips his finger pointing over John's shoulder. "Incoming!" he shouted.
John dove straight at Rodney pushing him into the sand as he rolled with the scientist. They watched as a group of armed men came at them firing. "They look like mercenaries," he said in heavy voice.
"Who cares!" Rodney screamed. "Let's get out of here."
John yanked him yet again and gripped his hand as they fled into the dense foliage at the beach's edge.
~~~
"We'll be safe in here for now," John said, sliding down the slimy rock face inside the cave next to Rodney.
"Great," Rodney said pulling his legs up closer as he huddled against the wall. "How do we get out of this?"
"It's not real, Rodney. It's not like we can die in here," John assured. "Right?"
Rodney favored him with a glare.
"Right?" John repeated. "This isn't the Matrix."
"I hated that movie," Rodney mumbled.
John looked to the mouth of the cave a moment. "We just need to figure out what the objective is and do the mission."
"Oh, yes. That's all," Rodney said. "Why didn't I think of that?"
"Are you still mad about last night?" John asked amazed.
"Just forget about it."
John closed his eyes for a moment. "Are you going to tell me about him?"
Rodney rubbed at his face. "I was hoping you wouldn't bring it up."
"Was it really that bad?" John asked placing his hand over Rodney's. "Why did you start dating?"
Rodney smiled. "He's a cook. What do you think?"
John laughed, his voice hollow in the cave. "That's it?"
Rodney shook his head. "Well no, but it seemed to be the only glue holding up together. Vincent wanted to open his own restaurant and we made plans. Then I got the offer from the Pentagon to join the Stargate project."
"Do you still have feelings for him?"
Rodney sighed shaking his head. "Sarah?"
"Yes, Dr. McKay."
"What is the objective of this simulation?"
"Your objective is to free a captive held at the center of the island," she related. "You have until sundown to complete the mission."
John got to his feet. "No problem. I'll go and you stay here."
"All participants must proceed," Sarah advised, "Or the mission will be logged as a failure."
"Of course," Rodney said. He kicked out his feet and stood. "Let's go save the day."
~~~
John peered over a branch, assessing the sparsely furnished village. Five modest huts were spaced strategically around a communal fire pit.
"Well?" Rodney asked.
"Not sure, but I'd say the hostage is in that on," he said pointing to a hut.
"And?" Rodney asked impatiently
"It screams ambush, and we're not armed."
"Has that ever stopped you before?" the scientist asked.
John smirked, pushing the branch aside. "Lets go," he whispered. "Stay on my ass."
Rodney choked back the response as John snaked his way along the path into the village. Without warning, the first attack came.
Two mercenaries jumped from behind the hut. John's hand shot out into the face of the first one, cracking his nose. John snatched the automatic weapon from his hand; spinning to face the second, he let loose a spray of bullets. The body thumped to the dirt with a thud.
John pulled the second weapon from the dead illusion's hands and gave it to Rodney. "It's similar to a P90." he said.
Rodney nodded, white knuckling the weapon as he followed John to the hut. They flanked the entrance to the hut and as one they flung themselves inside.
The hostage was face down on the dirty matted floor, a large mercenary standing over the unmoving body. The large man pointed the weapon down at the hostage as he shouted at them, but not in English.
"What's he saying?" Rodney asked.
"No clue," John replied over the stock of his weapon. "But I'm guessing it's something along the lines of 'put it down or I'll kill him'".
"Why don't you just shoot him?" Rodney said through clinched teeth.
"He might accidentally kill the hostage," John replied in a whisper.
"Then what do we do?" Rodney shot back.
The hostage stirred, rolling over as the mercenary kicked at him. The figure tried to sit up. Dark hair pushed away from the face as he pulled up.
"It's Vincent," Rodney said with surprise. "My god. What is he doing here?" he said in a whisper.
"Rodney, it's not really him," John said.
"I know this." Rodney looked up at the mercenary. "But why is he in the scenario?"
"Hmm," John mused. "I have my suspicions." He shook his head. "But that's not important. We're at a stand still. We need a distraction."
"Like what?" Rodney asked, turning toward John but losing his footing. He stumbled forward, fumbling his weapon and it fell to the floor without preamble.
The mercenary lifted his weapon in that brief second taking aim at Rodney. John fired the bullet catching the man between the eyes. "That'll do," John said with a grin.
"Oops," Rodney blurted. Leaning over, he retrieved the weapon.
The Vincent hostage sat up. "Oh, thank you! Rodney! I don't know how I got here."
"Is that it? Are we done?" Rodney asked. "Game over? Sarah! The mission is over we did it." Rodney said, "End the program."
Nothing happened. "Sarah?" Rodney repeated. "What's going on?"
"There's one more thing we need to do, Rodney," John advised.
"What?" Rodney said. "There's nothing." he said looking to the Vincent hostage. "We saved him."
"Not yet," John replied. "We need to get him back to the beach."
"My ankle," Vincent advised. "I think it's broken."
"We each get a side," John said. "Rodney take his arm. We'll hobble our way out of here."
"Right," Rodney huffed, taking the struggling Vincent. "Let's get out of here. I'm ruining my favorite pajama's."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The beach looked just as they had left it. The sun was disappearing over the horizon as the trio collapsed at the water's edge. "We made it," John said, breathing heavily and he and Rodney let go of the Vincent hostage who fell in a heap into the sand.
"Hey!" Vincent protested with a pout.
John took a step to Rodney taking his hands into his own. "I'm sorry."
"Wh-" Rodney began.
"Shut up Rodney," John said pulling him into a kiss.
They finally pulled away with a gasp and everything around them changed. John sat up as Rodney mimicked him from his place in the bed. "We're out," he said, his fingers still entwined with Rodney's.
"Are you two ok?" Fargo asked. "I've been trying to get inside for hours but Sarah wouldn't let me in. Something about a mission?"
Rodney breathed a sigh of relief. "We're fine, no thanks to you," Rodney replied with a glare.
"Just a little side trip," John assured. "We just need some time alone," he said waving Fargo away.
Fargo shrugged, turning to go as Rodney opened his mouth to add more.
John grabbed his chin pulling the scientist's face closer, then covered his mouth with his own.
~~~
The truck pulled up to the café and John switched it off. "This was interesting," he commented. We'll have an interesting story to relay to your sister," he added. "Are you sure you want to do this?" he asked, his head tilting in the direction of the diner.
Rodney swallowed loudly, his hand going to the door handle. "I think I should. It was the reason we went through all that. Isn't it?" the scientist said. "Unresolved issues."
John shrugged. "Among other things. Good luck," he said, leaning over and brushed his lips against Rodney's.
Rodney blushed and nodded, yanking at the handle then stepped out of the truck and walked to the café door.
The End.
Author: eviljr
Pairing: McShep
Rating: PG13
Recipient: threnodyjones
Spoilers: none
Summary: Rodney and John take a side to visit a little town called Eureka during a Christmas vacation. (SGA/Eureka crossover)
Author's Note: Much thanks to my beta's planetkiller and chattycatsmeow.
The House That Sarah Built
"I can't believe I let you talk me into this," Rodney grumbled with a patented sigh as he stared out the windshield.
John grinned as he coaxed the rented SUV up the mountain. "We both agreed to do this Rodney. It's on the way to Vancouver and we'll be at your sister's just in time for Christmas."
The scientist wrapped his arms tighter around himself and favored a worried glance out the side window. "It was not my idea," Rodney protested. "It was yours, and I do recall stating quite clearly I had no intention of going back there. You tricked me with sexual favors and coffee."
John smiled. "It's going to be great. You were having fun last night. At the hotel."
"Yes, well that was before this," he replied with a half handed gesture to the landscape.
The pair of men had set out from Cheyenne Mountain two days prior, making their way to the remote town of Eureka before heading up north to Vancouver. Now they cautiously moved through the four feet of snow a blizzard had dumped on them en route.
John shrugged. "Nothing this puppy can't handle," he said with a grin.
Rodney rolled his eyes. "This isn't exactly a puddle jumper, John. We can't just fly over this mess. And now I'm glad I can say I told you so. We should have just let the Daedalus beam us into Eureka."
"What fun would that be?" John replied. "This is so much more interesting, besides we're almost to there."
"Oh, joy," Rodney replied as the long, white highway gave way to a narrower lane. The SUV eased its way along the plowed road. The quaint street lights bouncing off the strategically placed Christmas decorations.
The pair of men leaned hastily forward as they drove steadily down the main street. "It's quiet," John commented. "And smaller then I expected."
"Now it is," Rodney replied but his voice trailed off. He surveyed the main street with wonder. It had been ten years since he had last set foot in the unusual town. The day he had left to join the research division of the Stargate project at the Pentagon has had been a satisfying yet bitter day.
John slowed, spotting the bright lights coming from a store front. "That place looks open. Some kind of diner.," he said, pulling into one of the many empty spots.
"Café Diem?" Rodney mulled, trying to peer into the fogged glass of the café.
"Sound familiar?" John asked, unbuckling and switching off the truck in one motion.
Rodney shook his head. "No, there was something else here when I was here last."
"Let's check it out," John said. "We can get something to eat and we need better directions to the bed and breakfast. The GPS is not working right in this weather anyway." He replied, exiting the truck.
Rodney sighed. Unhooking his seatbelt and yanking the door open, he joined John on the sidewalk.
The door chimed lightly as the sleigh bell jangled on the door. Rodney slid up next to John protectively as they entered the instant warmth of the diner.
A long counter to the left gave way to the charitable sized eating area. Small groups of two and three people were dashed about the room, chatting comfortably with hands wrapped around oversized ceramic mugs of steaming aromatic beverages. John took Rodney's still gloved hand in his own as they went to the counter and took up residence on two empty stools.
"I'll be right with you!" a voice called from beyond a swinging door with a port hole window just across from them.
Rodney slipped the zipper on his parka down as John removed his gloves. "Nice place," John commented, stealing another glance around.
Rodney shrugged as the door to the back room swung out and gave way to a generous sized man with longish, curly dark hair. He was wiping his hands on a pristine hand towel, his face in a wide smile. "Hi, I'm Vincent. What can I get fo-Rodney?" Vincent blurted catching the scientist's eye. "What are you doing here?"
John turned to Rodney. "You know each other?"
Rodney dry swallowed. "Hello, Vincent," he coughed. "It's been a long time."
Vincent nodded taking a quick stock of John. "Who's your friend?" he asked Rodney.
John put out his hand in offering. "John Sheppard. Are you a friend of Rodney's?"
Vincent placated them with a smile."You can say that. Although, I haven't heard boo from him since he left, what? Ten years ago? We didn't part on easy terms."
Rodney twitched nervously on the stool his feet dangling awkwardly. "Yes, well. It wasn't easy for me either Vincent."
"Right," the other man replied his eyes slightly glazed. "What brings you back to Eureka?"
John cleared his throat during the sudden unease. "We're on a road trip to Vancouver and thought we'd stop over. We're supposed to stay the night at the bed and breakfast."
"That might be a problem," a voice advised from behind them.
Rodney and John turned in unison to the sound. Two men had entered the diner, a wisp of winter air in their wake. One was a tall, wiry built man in jeans and an oversized dark sweater. He kicked his boots free of snow and polished off his dusting with a shake of his sandy colored hair. "There was an incident there a few days ago. It's kinda outta commission." he concluded. "I'm Jack Carter, the sheriff in Eureka." He hooked his thumb to point at his companion. "And this is Fargo." as if that was enough explanation.
The shorter, younger man was gripping a laptop in one hand, and pulled a skull cap from his head with the empty one. "Hi," he said. And made an ado with cleaning his lenses with his shirt fumbling with the items in his hands.
John smiled. "John Sheppard, Air Force. Out of commision?"
"Don't ask." Jack replied.
"Fire?"
"Not exactly," Jack said without elaborating. "It's classified."
"We have clearance at the highest levels," Sheppard assured.
"I'm sure you do," Jack said without elaborating. "What's the Air Force doing on my neck of the woods?"
John shook his head. "Just sight seeing Sheriff, nothing sinister."
"Hmm," Carter replied. "And your friend?" he asked looking to Rodney.
Rodney stood up and smirked. "I'm Dr. Rodney Mckay, scientist. I'm surprised you've never heard of me."
Fargo looked up. "THE Dr. McKay?"
Rodney smiled. "That's right."
Fargo grinned. "I heard you blew up a solar system."
John laughed, his head tilting back as he did. "They do know you around here."
"How did you know about that? It's classified." Rodney said, glaring at the younger man. "And it wasn't an entire solar system."
Fargo's mouth clamped shut and he shrugged.
"Well, we need to figure out where we're going for the night." John said. "I don't suppose there's a hotel in Eureka."
"Fraid not," Jack replied. "Eureka doesn't cater to tourists with Global Dynamic around."
John nodded. "Oh, yes. I know all about them."
Jack frowned slightly. "I'm sure you do. The closest town with suitable accommodations is about seventy miles over that mountain."
Rodney groaned. "This is a nightmare."
"I have an idea."
The three men turned to the voice. They had almost forgotten. "Yes?" Rodney said.
"You can stay with Vigo." Fargo said.
"The actor?" Rodney said. "You can't be serious. He lives here."
Fargo shook his head vehemently. "No, Vigo is a house. An AI house. Vigo stands for Very Important Guest Operations. It's a side project I've been working on."
"Like Sarah?" Carter asked and Fargo nodded at him.
"AI house?" Sheppard asked. "Is that like a smart house? Like Bill Gates' house?"
Fargo grinned. "Even better. Vigo is a state of the art system. I designed it to host for visiting dignitaries, generals, or whomever."
"Who's Sarah?" Rodney asked confused.
"My first AI house. Self Actuated Residential Automated Habitat or Sarah. I built her in an old bomb shelter."
"I live there," Carter added with a wide grin.
"Huh," Rodney replied skeptical. "How far is this AI guest room?"
"Vigo," Fargo corrected. "He's just around the corner. One problem though. I only built it with one bed."
Rodney blushed slightly and John possessively touched Rodney's arm. "That's not an issue."
Fargo and the Sheriff shared a knowing glance. "I see," Fargo replied. "So-?"
Rodney looked to John who shrugged. "Let's check it out."
Rodney rolled his eyes, pulling his parka into place as he motioned to Fargo. "After you wise one."
John shook his head and turned to Jack. "Nice meeting you, Sheriff," John said.
Carter nodded. "Same, if you're going to be around tomorrow I can give you the tour."
"That'd be great." Sheppard agreed pulling his coat into place and moving to catch up with his scientist.
~~~
"You've got to be kidding me." Rodney said staring out the windshield at the peeling paint and rusty roof of the low lying structure in front of them.
"Don't let the outside fool you," Fargo said. "It's much nicer inside."
"It looks like a condemned roadside public restroom," Rodney scoffed.
"Rodney," John said. "Let's go inside."
The trio opened the doors to exit the warmth of the truck. "Actually it's a decommissioned training facility," Fargo said. He held his laptop to him as they approached the building.
"It's small for a training facility." John commented.
"Well, size doesn't matter for this place." Fargo replied. "It was a virtual reality training complex."
"Really?" Rodney asked suddenly interested. "What happened to it?"
Fargo shrugged. "It was too expensive to keep up so Global shut it down. They moved to portable headsets instead."
The three men reached the flat, white door with a recently installed scanner. Fargo removed a plastic key FOB and slid it through the scanner. The door beeped then popped open. As they moved through the archway entrance a light glowed around them.
"What's that?" Rodney asked.
"That is Vigo scanning us."
"What?" Sheppard said taking a step back. "Why?"
"Nothing to worry about Colonel," Fargo replied. "It's part of the service."
"Service?" Rodney said. "What are you talking about?"
"Vigo is designed to be a full service guest house. The system is preprogrammed with information on the guests. Likes, dislikes, etc and when they enter they're scanned. Vigo pulls up its file on the guests and customizes itself." Fargo tapped on his laptop then looked up again. "I really just took the existing program for the reality training course and modified it.
"Like a car," John said.
"Right," Fargo said. "I entered everything into its system on the way over. Well, what I know anyway..." he said. "Shall we?"
Rodney and John eased into the room further, making their way through the pristine entrance that served more or less as a mud room. They kicked off their boots placing them aside.
John took lead as Rodney watched from his shoulder as they walked into the living area. A spacious layout was cordoned off in sections by furniture. An overstuffed couch with plasma TV, a dining area with sparkling kitchenette. Further back they could see the outline of a king sized bed and a walled area for what served as the bath. Everything was straight off the cover of Better Homes and Gardens. Muted colors, in complimentary reds and tans. Even the decorative touches screamed placated but sensible and appealing.
"Wow," John commented. "This is amazing."
"Welcome to Vigo," Fargo beamed. "Vigo, say hello to our guests."
"Welcome, Dr. Mckay, Colonel Sheppard." a light female voice replied.
"Vigo has a girl's voice," John commented.
Fargo's face pinched slightly. "Yes. The programming for Vigo technically isn't ready. I'm still working out the kinks on that, so it's Sarah speaking right now. I have the guest operations systems going through her until Vigo is complete. I told her to act like Vigo," he confirmed.
John laughed. "Is that ok with you Sarah?"
"Not particularly, Colonel Sheppard but it is well within my capabilities to run the functions of Vigo, as well Sheriff Carter's residence."
"Sounds good to me," John replied.
Rodney spotted the fridge. "Is that thing stocked?"
Fargo grinned. "Come over here. You're going to love this." He walked over to the kitchen area, his two guests in his wake stopping a the wall next to the fridge. "This is a dumbwaiter," Fargo said pointing to the wall. "See this thin panel? It's linked to the computer system and is voice activated. You put your finger here," he said demonstrating. "Tell it what you want, and it will appear down here." He yanked on a silver handle that revealed an interior space in the wall. "Anything you can cook or get from the store. Ingredients, etc."
"You're kidding," Rodney said unbelieving.
"Not at all," Fargo said. "I have it hooked up to the stores that feed Café Diem, and they're infinite. Trust me."
John and Rodney looked at him with worried for his mental health glances. "You'll see." Fargo assured. "So, hmm. I need to get going but I will check in with you in the morning. You might want to get your overnight bags soon as there's a storm coming."
"Right," John agreed. "I'll grab'em from the truck. Do you want a ride back to the Café?"
Fargo shook his head. "No, it's ok. I'll just ride my scooter. He pulled a small box from his pocked and headed to the door."
Rodney looked to John one eyebrow going up. "Oh, I almost forgot something." Fargo said coming back. "Here's the guest FOB. It'll work for either of you, so you can come and go. You can leave it here when you're ready to leave. And if you would, please fill out the comment card on the night stand." He paused as though to say more, his feel shuffling. Then he turned quickly on his heels and left.
"Strange little man," Rodney said watching him go.
John smiled. "I better get the bags. Why don't you try out the dumb waiter, and see what we can have for dinner."
~~~
Dinner had consisted of generous portions of roast beef, baked potatoes, greens beans and a chocolate cake. Rodney had more fun running the dumbwaiter around then anything. After some chiding from Sarah he managed to pull together a fine meal.
After dutifully cleaning up the kitchenette area, and placing the dishes in the seemingly overpowered dish washer, the stuffed pair crashed on the inviting couch, settling into a movie.
"This might be better then a bed and breakfast," John advised.
"Hmm," Rodney replied. "I'd rather be on a beach, drinking fruity drinks through straws."
"Come on, Rodney," John said with a sigh. He chewed on his lip a moment. "Are you going to tell me about Vincent?"
Rodney looked away for a moment, his eyes feigning intent at the TV. "It was a long time ago, John."
John pulled on Rodney's foot, rubbing it.. "I'm not saying I'm jealo-"
"And why not?" Rodney asked indignant. "You don't think someone can pine for me?"
John frowned. "That's not what I meant Rodney."
Rodney pulled his feet away. "Sure. I'm tired and this movie is a little mundane. I'm going to bed." He stood up quickly and headed to the bedroom.
John's head flopped back into the couch closing his eyes. "Sarah, you can turn that off. I think we're done." The TV clicked off and John pulled himself up to follow the scientist.
~~~
John's hand was wrapped around Rodney's waist and he stirred slightly. A breeze caressed his hair. Atlantis? Did they leave a window open. He tried to open his eyes, sniffing at the surroundings and caught a hint of salt air. Wait. He bolted up from his position, rocking the sleeping scientist at the same time.
"Hey,' Rodney protested, sitting up. "Why did you do that?"
John was still taking in the immediate area. He placed a hand down, expecting a cool sheet but was greeted by sand sticking absently to his palm. "Rodney, something isn't right here."
"No kidding," Rodney replied. "Where are we?"
John shook his head. "We were in Eureka, right?"
Rodney nodded. "Yes, at least I think. I mean we weren't on a mission."
John jumped up. He was still wearing his pajama bottoms, and grey t-shirt. Rodney held up his hand as John pulled him to his feet. They were on a beach, an island setting. The warm sand giving way to rolling water to their left, a lush green tree line to the right. The sun was rising just at their eye line. "It feels real," John said.
Rodney pulled at the hem of his flannel pajamas. "Sarah?" he asked looking up. "Did you do this?"
"Good morning, Dr. McKay," the computer responded.
"What's going on, Sarah?" John asked.
"I am fulfilling Dr. McKay's request," she replied. "It is the primary goal of Vigo to satisfy our guests."
Rodney's eyes widened, catching John's eye. "I asked for the beach, remember?"
John nodded. "Is this real or some sort of illusion?"
Rodney closed his eyes. "I think it's a virtual reality program."
John smiled. "Then this isn't so bad. It's quite nice actually."
Rodney grimaced. "I wouldn't get so excited just yet."
"Why?"
Rodney held up his hand stepping forward a step and looking up. "Sarah? Where did you obtain the programming for this setting?"
"I accessed the protocol files from the VRT," Sarah replied. "This program was the closest example that fulfilled the wishes of Dr. McKay."
"That's what I was afraid of," Rodney said
"What is it Rodney?" John asked.
"It's a training program. A military training program."
"Oh," John replied. "Oh, that's not good, and I'm guessing it's not level one."
Rodney's made an "O" with his lips his finger pointing over John's shoulder. "Incoming!" he shouted.
John dove straight at Rodney pushing him into the sand as he rolled with the scientist. They watched as a group of armed men came at them firing. "They look like mercenaries," he said in heavy voice.
"Who cares!" Rodney screamed. "Let's get out of here."
John yanked him yet again and gripped his hand as they fled into the dense foliage at the beach's edge.
~~~
"We'll be safe in here for now," John said, sliding down the slimy rock face inside the cave next to Rodney.
"Great," Rodney said pulling his legs up closer as he huddled against the wall. "How do we get out of this?"
"It's not real, Rodney. It's not like we can die in here," John assured. "Right?"
Rodney favored him with a glare.
"Right?" John repeated. "This isn't the Matrix."
"I hated that movie," Rodney mumbled.
John looked to the mouth of the cave a moment. "We just need to figure out what the objective is and do the mission."
"Oh, yes. That's all," Rodney said. "Why didn't I think of that?"
"Are you still mad about last night?" John asked amazed.
"Just forget about it."
John closed his eyes for a moment. "Are you going to tell me about him?"
Rodney rubbed at his face. "I was hoping you wouldn't bring it up."
"Was it really that bad?" John asked placing his hand over Rodney's. "Why did you start dating?"
Rodney smiled. "He's a cook. What do you think?"
John laughed, his voice hollow in the cave. "That's it?"
Rodney shook his head. "Well no, but it seemed to be the only glue holding up together. Vincent wanted to open his own restaurant and we made plans. Then I got the offer from the Pentagon to join the Stargate project."
"Do you still have feelings for him?"
Rodney sighed shaking his head. "Sarah?"
"Yes, Dr. McKay."
"What is the objective of this simulation?"
"Your objective is to free a captive held at the center of the island," she related. "You have until sundown to complete the mission."
John got to his feet. "No problem. I'll go and you stay here."
"All participants must proceed," Sarah advised, "Or the mission will be logged as a failure."
"Of course," Rodney said. He kicked out his feet and stood. "Let's go save the day."
~~~
John peered over a branch, assessing the sparsely furnished village. Five modest huts were spaced strategically around a communal fire pit.
"Well?" Rodney asked.
"Not sure, but I'd say the hostage is in that on," he said pointing to a hut.
"And?" Rodney asked impatiently
"It screams ambush, and we're not armed."
"Has that ever stopped you before?" the scientist asked.
John smirked, pushing the branch aside. "Lets go," he whispered. "Stay on my ass."
Rodney choked back the response as John snaked his way along the path into the village. Without warning, the first attack came.
Two mercenaries jumped from behind the hut. John's hand shot out into the face of the first one, cracking his nose. John snatched the automatic weapon from his hand; spinning to face the second, he let loose a spray of bullets. The body thumped to the dirt with a thud.
John pulled the second weapon from the dead illusion's hands and gave it to Rodney. "It's similar to a P90." he said.
Rodney nodded, white knuckling the weapon as he followed John to the hut. They flanked the entrance to the hut and as one they flung themselves inside.
The hostage was face down on the dirty matted floor, a large mercenary standing over the unmoving body. The large man pointed the weapon down at the hostage as he shouted at them, but not in English.
"What's he saying?" Rodney asked.
"No clue," John replied over the stock of his weapon. "But I'm guessing it's something along the lines of 'put it down or I'll kill him'".
"Why don't you just shoot him?" Rodney said through clinched teeth.
"He might accidentally kill the hostage," John replied in a whisper.
"Then what do we do?" Rodney shot back.
The hostage stirred, rolling over as the mercenary kicked at him. The figure tried to sit up. Dark hair pushed away from the face as he pulled up.
"It's Vincent," Rodney said with surprise. "My god. What is he doing here?" he said in a whisper.
"Rodney, it's not really him," John said.
"I know this." Rodney looked up at the mercenary. "But why is he in the scenario?"
"Hmm," John mused. "I have my suspicions." He shook his head. "But that's not important. We're at a stand still. We need a distraction."
"Like what?" Rodney asked, turning toward John but losing his footing. He stumbled forward, fumbling his weapon and it fell to the floor without preamble.
The mercenary lifted his weapon in that brief second taking aim at Rodney. John fired the bullet catching the man between the eyes. "That'll do," John said with a grin.
"Oops," Rodney blurted. Leaning over, he retrieved the weapon.
The Vincent hostage sat up. "Oh, thank you! Rodney! I don't know how I got here."
"Is that it? Are we done?" Rodney asked. "Game over? Sarah! The mission is over we did it." Rodney said, "End the program."
Nothing happened. "Sarah?" Rodney repeated. "What's going on?"
"There's one more thing we need to do, Rodney," John advised.
"What?" Rodney said. "There's nothing." he said looking to the Vincent hostage. "We saved him."
"Not yet," John replied. "We need to get him back to the beach."
"My ankle," Vincent advised. "I think it's broken."
"We each get a side," John said. "Rodney take his arm. We'll hobble our way out of here."
"Right," Rodney huffed, taking the struggling Vincent. "Let's get out of here. I'm ruining my favorite pajama's."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The beach looked just as they had left it. The sun was disappearing over the horizon as the trio collapsed at the water's edge. "We made it," John said, breathing heavily and he and Rodney let go of the Vincent hostage who fell in a heap into the sand.
"Hey!" Vincent protested with a pout.
John took a step to Rodney taking his hands into his own. "I'm sorry."
"Wh-" Rodney began.
"Shut up Rodney," John said pulling him into a kiss.
They finally pulled away with a gasp and everything around them changed. John sat up as Rodney mimicked him from his place in the bed. "We're out," he said, his fingers still entwined with Rodney's.
"Are you two ok?" Fargo asked. "I've been trying to get inside for hours but Sarah wouldn't let me in. Something about a mission?"
Rodney breathed a sigh of relief. "We're fine, no thanks to you," Rodney replied with a glare.
"Just a little side trip," John assured. "We just need some time alone," he said waving Fargo away.
Fargo shrugged, turning to go as Rodney opened his mouth to add more.
John grabbed his chin pulling the scientist's face closer, then covered his mouth with his own.
~~~
The truck pulled up to the café and John switched it off. "This was interesting," he commented. We'll have an interesting story to relay to your sister," he added. "Are you sure you want to do this?" he asked, his head tilting in the direction of the diner.
Rodney swallowed loudly, his hand going to the door handle. "I think I should. It was the reason we went through all that. Isn't it?" the scientist said. "Unresolved issues."
John shrugged. "Among other things. Good luck," he said, leaning over and brushed his lips against Rodney's.
Rodney blushed and nodded, yanking at the handle then stepped out of the truck and walked to the café door.
The End.