Stargate SG-1 s07e20 Episode Script
Inauguration
The Nikkei dropped 8% last night, also the yen continued it's freefall.
Also the President of Togo was deposed about 6 hours ago.
He managed to get a plane to Nigeria, now he's calling for American troops to help restore order.
This is my first day.
Yes Mr.
President.
The New York Times is about to launch investigations into voting irregularities in six southern states.
I've got Teddy on it.
Stan who are these people following me? They work for you Mr.
President.
Also there's a storm in the Atlantic about to hit the coast of Maine.
They're expecting gail force winds and twenty inches of snow.
Shouldn't I know who they are? Yes sir, Mr.
President.
The emergency management teams are standing by, but we've scheduled a call to the governor for ten o'clock so that you can pledge your support.
They're not going to follow me around all the time are they? No Mr.
President.
Good.
Hello.
Polly? The chairman of the Joint Chiefs is waiting for you in your office.
He knows it's my first day right? Yes Mr.
President.
Good.
Francis.
Mr.
President.
We need to talk sir.
It's important.
Guys.
Let me enjoy the moment.
Moment is over sir.
Right.
Stan, thank you, thank you.
Mr.
President.
I'm here to bring you up to speed on a program we've been running out of Cheyenne Mountain for the past seven years.
I've already had my top secret briefing.
Yes Mr.
President, but not this.
Mr.
President, for the past seven years, the United States Air Force has been sending teams to other planets by means of an alien device known as a Stargate.
That's funny.
That's very funny.
My first day.
This is a joke right? I have a great sense of humor.
I didn't know that you had one, but this is good because we're finding out about each other.
Now I have to call the ex-President of Togo, and when I'm done, apparently, the rest of the world is coming to an end.
The ex-President of Togo will have to wait sir.
This is not a joke.
The United States Air Force has been sending people to other planets? - Yes sir.
- For the last seven years.
- That's correct.
- By means of an alien device? Known as the Stargate.
Season 7 Episode 20 Inauguration Transcript from stargatedanielfriendly.
net The Team SG-66 Synch by Nicotr - Toutancarton Senator McKnight as requested we move your meeting to next week.
He's trying to duck me.
Doesn't want to commit on the crime bill.
What shall I tell him? Forget it! The son of a bitch came in on our coat tails.
Now it's time to pay the piper.
What the hell were you thinking? Mr.
President.
Why didn't you tell me? Sarah would you excuse us for a moment please.
I take it you've just been briefed by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs on our new reality.
Not only do I find out that the Air Force is engaged in interstellar travel, but I also find out that my running mate knows all about it! - I was under a special executive gag order.
- Since when?! A little over six years now.
That's unbelievable! Mr.
President, I realize that this is a little overwhelming right now, but what you really need to know is that the Stargate is being seriously mis-managed.
It's urgent that we act now.
What are you talking about? I have desperately tried to maintain some proper control and accountability, but the oversight in place is completely inadequate.
The military specifically, the personnel directly involved in the SGC, need to be replaced immediately.
Now, I have several recommendations regarding.
.
Whoa! Bob, hold on! Mr.
President.
Why do you think I was ordered to keep quiet? This was a deliberate attempt by the Military and the previous administration, to drive a wedge between us, because they knew I was going to come after them.
We need to stick together on this.
For God sake Bob, think of the magnitude of this! - For Gods sake is right.
- Oh come on Bob! If you want me to buy into your holier than thou position, you've got to convince me you're right! Hosted alien dignitaries.
Acquired alien technology.
Traveled back in time? Did they really blow up a sun? As I understand it sir.
Yes they did.
It's got to look awfully good on the old resume hey? Yes sir.
They've done some pretty amazing things.
You sound like a fan Francis.
Well I can't help but appreciate the number of times they've saved this world.
Some people think this world wouldn't have needed saving had we left well enough alone.
Well, you can't deny what's out there sir.
The enemy would have come for us anyway.
We need to be prepared and no matter what anyone says, the people at the SGC have done the best job anyone could under the circumstances.
You don't trust the Vice President.
He obviously has his own agenda.
I know he tried to shut them down when he was at appropriations.
Well frankly I think the Vice President knows as well as anyone else, it's too late for that.
If he didn't six years ago, he certainly does now.
What does that mean? He clearly doesn't want to shut the gate down anymore, he wants to control it.
We have a civilian agency known as the NID.
Now its mandate has been to keep an eye on top secret projects like the Stargate program, and has done so from the beginning.
I propose that we give this organization direct control of the gate, effective immediately.
There's only one reason he wanted to give control to the NID.
Because he was about to become Chairman of the Intelligence Oversight Committee.
Which would put the NID and the Stargate in his back pocket.
He had the Ambassadors eating out of his hands.
It was only because of some extraordinary intervention that it didn't work.
Hello? Hello.
I am Thor, supreme commander of the Asgard fleet.
- Commander Thor, my name is.
.
- Senator Kinsey.
O'Neill suggested I send you to a distant planet for your actions here but I am reasonably certain his statement was in jest.
- I'm sure it was Commander.
.
- Supreme Commander.
It is the opinion of the Asgard High Council that Stargate Command should be left in the very capable hands of General Hammond and his team.
And while our continued friendship with Earth is not contingent on that, it is preferred.
I wonder why he wants it so badly.
I mean, besides his belief in his divine right.
I don't know sir.
Not that that's not enough, but I get this feeling that there's something more to it.
Yes sir.
That rogue element at NID, that he took credit for taking down last year.
We've never had any proof connecting Senator Kinsey to anything nefarious.
I'm starting to get a bad feeling about where some of that campaign financing came from.
Mr.
President.
Did I say that out loud? Ah, Mr.
Woolsey.
I hope my confidence in you has not been misplaced.
You have my word sir.
Once I've finished presenting the evidence, the President will have no choice but to follow your recommendation, and clean house at Stargate Command.
I'm sorry to keep you waiting Mr.
President, but I was just wrapping up a meeting with the Joint Chiefs when I got your message.
Francis I thought you'd want to sit in on this one.
Thank you sir.
General I don't believe you know Richard Woolsey.
For the past several months he has been working with the NID conducting a thorough investigation of all Stargate Personnel.
I've asked him here to kindly present us with his findings.
If this is a discussion about the competence of those running the SGC, then shouldn't George Hammond be included? Unfortunately sir.
General Hammond is part of the problem.
George Hammond is a highly decorated officer.
A thirty year veteran with the United States Air Force, and while that may not carry a lot of weight over at the NID, it still means something to certain people in this town.
This isn't a trial General.
Although it certainly wouldn't surprise me if it came to that.
Let's stick to specifics here.
If these people need to be replaced, I want to see evidence.
Thank you Mr.
President.
The most recent incident was less than a month ago.
General Hammond ordered an off-world rescue operation, despite ample indication that he was sending his people into an ambush.
As a result, a very valuable member of Stargate Command was killed, Doctor Janet Fraiser.
Sending your people into potentially dangerous situations is a natural consequence of military command.
Maybe so, but ignoring evidence of an enemy trap is at best foolish and at worst criminally negligent.
General Hammond admits his responsibility.
His own report is essentially a confession.
All that proves is that the man had the guts to own up to his mistakes.
Unfortunately in this case, mistakes can lead to compromising the entire planet.
I've uncovered a mountain of evidence implicating not only General Hammond but his first line team as well.
Those people are Heroes.
We have no intention of minimizing the accomplishments of either the General or SG1.
Their respective achievements speak for themselves.
But, intermittent success' cannot excuse ongoing misconduct.
Over the past seven years, SG1 has shown a disregard for military authority.
They have compromised National security and exercised extremely poor judgment in the performance of their duties.
You should be on my speech writing team.
Come on, cut the crap will ya? As crazy as it sounds, we're sitting around here talking about people who are fighting aliens, right? Could we please be specific.
Yes sir.
Let's start with insubordination.
Approximately five and a half years ago the gate was shut down.
The SGC was under orders to suspend all off world travel pending a full review.
SG1 chose to ignore those orders.
And in the process they managed to head off an invasion.
Nonetheless they were guilty.
And it was by no means an isolated incident.
Let's go.
O'Neill! Not this time, Teal'c.
They sabotaged a mother ship the Goa'uld would have eventually used to attack Earth.
They used the Stargate against the direct order of a superior officer.
You can't hold them accountable for that.
Read the damn mission report.
They were under the influence of an alien device.
Yes of course.
Which brings us to the alarming frequency with which members of SG1 have fallen under alien influence.
Major Samantha Carter.
Implanted with a Goa'uld symbiote and then two years ago her body became host to an alien virus.
Daniel Jackson, fell under the influence of alien technology on numerous occasions.
Had his body play host to not one but twelve alien psyche simultaneously.
Most interestingly of all,.
.
apparently died and according to the report, evolved into a higher being.
Teal'c, an alien.
Former soldier of the Goa'uld.
Now possesses full security clearance at our most secret facility.
He earned that trust.
Yes, that trust almost cost SG1 dearly when he rejoined the ranks of the System Lord Apophis.
Buddy! Whatcha got goin' here, Teal'c? Well done, Tealc! Finally you may resume your rightful position as my first prime.
He'd been brainwashed by the enemy.
Yes, like his fellow team members, he too has shown a vulnerability to alien influence.
Which finally brings us to the team leader, Jack O'Neill.
Infected by alien contagions a half dozen times, experimented on by extraterrestrials another half dozen times.
Had his memories manipulated on numerous occasions.
Had the entire repository of an Ancient alien database effectively downloaded into his head.
Not long after this incident the Colonel began exhibiting strange behavior.
Speaking an alien language, demonstrating super human intellect.
As it turns out he was undergoing some sort of transformation as a result of the knowledge he had absorbed.
Were it not for the timely intervention of another alien race, he would have been lost to us.
How these people maintain their sanity is beyond me.
I'm having trouble just sitting here listening to it.
That Mr.
President is exactly my point.
How can we trust these individuals to protect our planet after everything they've been through.
Well they seem to be handling it very well.
But whose to say they're completely free of these influences.
They're routinely checked and cleared by medical professionals.
We can no longer allow the Pentagon to look the other way.
The number of times the members of SG1 have been compromised, should have warranted at least a consideration of their off-world status.
Transfers to less decisive positions.
A couple of sick days for Gods sake.
The first time I heard about this, I couldn't believe what I was hearing.
I tried to imagine myself doing what these people have been doing for the last seven years, and quite frankly I don't think any of us can really understand what they've been going through.
No matter how many files we read.
All the more reason for intensive scrutiny.
If new protocols and standards of conduct need to be established.
This is where it has to start.
What do you say we take a break? Yes sir.
You can't possibly be taking their side.
I need time to absorb this Bob.
We may not have much time.
The longer those people Relax.
All I'm saying is that at the moment I'm going to give them the benefit of the doubt.
I need to know more.
I think you know all you need to know and that includes why you're here.
I'm here Bob, because the people of this nation elected me to run their country, not the whole damn galaxy.
This is my office Bob not yours, no matter what you may think you did to make this happen.
And don't you ever for one second forget that.
Yes Mr.
President.
Let's take a break.
According to the military, Stargate Command is our first and best line of defense against potential alien threats to this planet.
If that's true, we should be very, very, concerned.
Time and again General Hammond and SG1 have demonstrated shockingly poor judgment.
Placing themselves, the base, this whole planet in jeopardy.
The decision to bring back suspect technology through the gate has precipitated a number of crisis situations.
For the most part they've been deal't with within the confines of the SGC.
However, last year, the effect of an alien device broke containment and found it's way into the civilian population.
Sir, I have reason to believe an individual I came in contact with has breached the quarantine.
The situation was taken care of, a cover story was created and the civilian population was none the wiser.
Well, I for one would like to know how many more times we're going to have to clean up after these people.
They have a mandate to acquire off world technology, and that entails necessary risks.
And how would you define necessary? Only a few months ago, General Hammond allowed the testing of an unproven computer virus that infected and shut down our entire gate network, leaving us open to a potential planetary assault.
You can't hold Hammond responsible for that.
It was a Goa'uld modification of the virus that caused the problem.
In other words General Hammond effectively gave the Goa'uld a weapon to use against us.
Like the President said.
You can't even begin to understand what their jobs demand of them.
Maybe not, but I would like to think that it includes common sense and the willingness to set aside personal feelings in the heat of battle.
What are you referring to Mr.
Woolsey? An incident three years ago when General Hammond allowed emotion to override established Gate room protocol.
Evacuate the Gate room.
Colonel O'Neill, we're taking fire.
Report Colonel O'Neill! Sir Give them more time.
General Hammond's decision to wait for SG1 worked out in the end.
But I can't help but wonder if he'll be so lucky the next time.
The members of Sg1 have similarly suspect priorities, and no wonder.
Not one, but two people that Doctor Jackson had close personal relationships with, were taken as Goa'uld hosts.
Teal'cs family and associates among the ranks of the enemy Jaffa, make him an easy target for Goa'uld retaliation and manipulation.
And both Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter have demonstrated an alarming tendency to let interpersonal relationships cloud their decision making process.
They have a right to their feelings.
Unless of course you're suggesting some kind of inappropriate relationship here? Inappropriate yes.
That is exactly what he's suggesting.
It's difficult to come away from these reports without the distinct impression that there is a lot more going on between Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter than simple friendship and respect.
For example, there was an incident last year in which colonel O'Neill were missing.
Based on a report filed by one of the scientists on the mission in question.
Major Carter's behavior was erratic at best.
Major, this technology's unlike anything we've come across before.
I know.
We have no frame of reference, no way to interface.
I'm working on it, Doctor.
As you should be! Right.
Excuse me? Where's Colonel O'Neill? I don't see him, do you? Did you guys find him while I was gone? I say when we're done here.
That's it? That's your evidence? Oh I believe there's a lot more to this than we've been told.
Look.
Of course I hardly expect them to incriminate themselves in their own reports.
But we can all read between the lines.
Alright, I've heard enough.
Thank you gentlemen.
Thank you Mr.
Woolsey.
Mr.
President.
Mr.
Woolsey is here to see you sir.
Send him in.
Would you like a drink? No thank you.
That was nice work today Richard.
Really? I got the distinct feeling it didn't go so well.
Ah well.
It doesn't matter.
It doesn't? Nah.
The Presidents going to come around.
I didn't get that impression Mr.
Vice President.
In fact I clearly sensed that he was siding with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.
Today was a formality.
Don't get me wrong, the job you did was vital.
The President has to appear to be hearing both sides, considering his position.
He'll see things my way eventually.
And if he doesn't? Things happen.
What is that supposed to mean? It means you chose the right side Richard.
One way or another, I promise you.
I'm going to win this one.
Mr.
President.
General.
I take it you're here to make a case for the defense.
I'm not going to get into a point counter point.
Look it may very well be that Hammond and SG1 have done their very best under difficult circumstances, but there's a political aspect to the Vice Presidents position that makes a lot of sense.
Sir? A lot of people know about the Stargate.
We can't keep it a secret forever.
When it finally comes out, we're going to be in the fight of our lives.
We'll need the publics confidence.
And you think cleaning house at the SGC now shows you're in control.
You disagree? I think there's time for that still sir, but for the immediate future, I'm here to let you know what you're up against.
And why we need Hammond and SG1 right now, more than ever.
Have a seat and fire away.
The System Lords have proven themselves to be formidable adversaries, and yet despite our obvious disadvantage we've managed to hold our own.
Maybe even take them down a notch or two.
We've been good and we've been lucky.
But I'm afraid that could change.
There's a new Goa'uld in the mix.
I take it you're referring to the one who calls himself Anubis.
He's more powerful than any of his predecessors.
He came to our attention a little over a year ago when he tried to take out Earth with an asteroid.
And then used our own Stargate as a weapon against us.
We thwarted him both times.
Since then he's redirected his attention towards his rivals.
Waging a year long war against the Goa'uld.
You're time is up.
Well, it's good for us.
Let them fight among themselves.
The problem is: when he's done with them, and it's only a matter of time, he'll come for us.
And when he does, we'll be facing a whole new threat.
Fire in the hold! A super soldier.
Not just one.
He's got a whole army.
If that's true.
I can't imagine how having Stargate 1 on the front lines is going to make one damn bit of difference when the time comes.
Anubis may be incredibly powerful, but he's not invincible.
There is a way to take him out.
Hows that? By finding the Lost City.
You'll have to forgive me Francis.
I'm not up to speed, I've only gone through about a third of those files.
The gate system was built by a race of highly advanced aliens known as the ancients.
They died off millions of years ago, but it seems that they haven't disappeared completely.
They've evolved into higher life forms.
Well will they help us? No Sir.
Why the hell not? It's beneath them, they won't involve themselves in our affairs.
So where are you going with this? Last year SG1 made an amazing discovery on a planet called Abydos.
Youre going to find the lost city of the Ancients.
Lost city? Didnt tell him about that either, huh? Daniel found a tablet talking about a lost city.
Where there are powerful Ancient weapons capable of giving you a big advantage over Anubis.
Do you know where it is? No, but Ill help you find it.
Hammond and SG1 are close to finding the Lost City, let them do their job Sir.
Let them save this planet one more time.
I wish it were that simple.
I'm not sure what you mean Sir.
The Vice President may be a pain in the ass, but I can't just ignore him.
You're the Commander in chief, it's your decision.
True, but if I cross him on this one.
well let's just say that I haven't viewed all the angles yet.
Is there anything you haven't told me? No Sir.
Then as far as I can tell, Hammond and SG1 have done an extraordinary job under very difficult circumstances.
But in doing so they've made some mistakes, they've made some enemies and frankly I don't know if I can protect them.
General.
Mr.
Woolsey.
Thank you for meeting me.
I take it that the Vice President doesn't know about this.
No and I'd like to keep it that way.
What do you want? I want to warn you.
I think that the Vice President may be involved with people capable of.
.
well.
.
anything.
I believe that they may have attempted assassination at least once before as a means to get what they wanted.
Do you realize the seriousness of what you just said? Yes Sir.
Look, no matter what you might think of me, I consider myself to be a man of integrity.
I took the job with the NID because I believe in civilian oversight of top secret military operations.
- Mr.
Woolsey.
- I don't have any proof Sir, but I am starting to question whether those to whom I have dedicated my allegiance are as honorable as I hoped.
You're a resourceful man Mr.
Woolsey, if you think there's proof out there, find it.
Hammond.
Show him in.
General.
This must have been important for you to have come all this way.
I know you have no reason to trust me General, that's why I felt I had to come here in person.
Sit down.
I take great pride in my work General, my job demands meticulous research and above all us, impartiality in its execution.
My aim is to present an airtight argument, a point of view for considerations of those I serve with no personal agenda whatsoever.
Get to the point.
I stand by my case against you and your personnel, despite what I'm about to say to you.
I hope you don't expect that to gain my respect.
Do you recall the assassination attempt on 'then' Senator Kinsey? And later gained notoriety for bringing those responsible to justice.
I can only assume that you're going somewhere with this.
Let's just say that I've recently come to believe that those behind the rogue element of the NID have not entirely been eliminated.
In fact they may be stronger then ever and Vice President Kinsey may still be tied to them.
They tried to have him killed and then he tried to take them down.
That seems unlikely.
At the time, something must have made Kinsey a liability.
But after the assassination attempt failed, the opportunity presented itself to propel Kinsey onto the presidential ticket.
That could have been enough to motivate a reconciliation.
Either way, I'm not surprised by any of this Mr.
Woolsey.
Well I'm sorry to say that I am, and I want to do something about it if I can.
Like what? Like presenting evidence, if there is any connecting Kinsey to those behind the rogue NID.
What makes you think evidence like that exists? Because you're sitting right there.
I'm sorry? Three years ago you left SGC, supposedly retired.
I'm guessing you were blackmailed.
And? And then you came back, nothing about that ever made any sense to me.
I want to know why, how.
You've got something on Kinsey, something I can use.
That's it.
We're in.
I'm downloading now.
Kinsey's on-line activities connect him to NID actions over the last year and a half, .
.
including the secret operation I ran out of Area 51, .
.
the involvement with the Russians .
.
and the threats to Hammond.
You're a piece of work, Kinsey.
You try to shut down the SGC.
You make a speech about how you hate secret organizations, then jump in bed with the NID.
What is that? I'm done.
What are you going to do? Take down the whole NID? Nope.
Here's the deal.
Get them to reinstate Hammond, or this disk goes to the press.
You've got connections General, you must know what's going down.
That's not the only copy.
Why haven't you given this to someone before now? I didn't know who to trust, I still don't.
Yes Sir, right away.
The President will see you now.
Thank you.
Thank you for seeing me Mr.
President.
Is there something that you wanted to add to your report Mr.
Woolsey? Yes Sir.
As I'm sure you're aware, the NID does not exactly have a spotless record.
For several years, a group of rogue agents operated inside of its ranks.
They were acting on behalf a cabal of international business interests, intent on acquiring alien technology for their own profit.
One could only hope.
Mr.
President? What I'm saying is that one could only hope that money was their chief motivation.
However I doubt that the type of person behind this was short sighted enough for that given what he must know.
In light of the new reality that Stargate presents, there are aspirations beyond mere financial greed that could be much worse.
I agree.
You're here to tell me that the Vice President is still in league with them? If these people are as powerful as we both think it does make one wonder what the Vice President could possibly have offered them in exchange for the price on his head.
Obviously full control of the Stargate program that the White House affords.
The Vice President brought key financing to your campaign victory.
I just hope that it didn't come at too high a cost.
I also hope that history one day shows that I tried to do the right thing.
Who's version of history, Mr.
Woolsey?
Also the President of Togo was deposed about 6 hours ago.
He managed to get a plane to Nigeria, now he's calling for American troops to help restore order.
This is my first day.
Yes Mr.
President.
The New York Times is about to launch investigations into voting irregularities in six southern states.
I've got Teddy on it.
Stan who are these people following me? They work for you Mr.
President.
Also there's a storm in the Atlantic about to hit the coast of Maine.
They're expecting gail force winds and twenty inches of snow.
Shouldn't I know who they are? Yes sir, Mr.
President.
The emergency management teams are standing by, but we've scheduled a call to the governor for ten o'clock so that you can pledge your support.
They're not going to follow me around all the time are they? No Mr.
President.
Good.
Hello.
Polly? The chairman of the Joint Chiefs is waiting for you in your office.
He knows it's my first day right? Yes Mr.
President.
Good.
Francis.
Mr.
President.
We need to talk sir.
It's important.
Guys.
Let me enjoy the moment.
Moment is over sir.
Right.
Stan, thank you, thank you.
Mr.
President.
I'm here to bring you up to speed on a program we've been running out of Cheyenne Mountain for the past seven years.
I've already had my top secret briefing.
Yes Mr.
President, but not this.
Mr.
President, for the past seven years, the United States Air Force has been sending teams to other planets by means of an alien device known as a Stargate.
That's funny.
That's very funny.
My first day.
This is a joke right? I have a great sense of humor.
I didn't know that you had one, but this is good because we're finding out about each other.
Now I have to call the ex-President of Togo, and when I'm done, apparently, the rest of the world is coming to an end.
The ex-President of Togo will have to wait sir.
This is not a joke.
The United States Air Force has been sending people to other planets? - Yes sir.
- For the last seven years.
- That's correct.
- By means of an alien device? Known as the Stargate.
Season 7 Episode 20 Inauguration Transcript from stargatedanielfriendly.
net The Team SG-66 Synch by Nicotr - Toutancarton Senator McKnight as requested we move your meeting to next week.
He's trying to duck me.
Doesn't want to commit on the crime bill.
What shall I tell him? Forget it! The son of a bitch came in on our coat tails.
Now it's time to pay the piper.
What the hell were you thinking? Mr.
President.
Why didn't you tell me? Sarah would you excuse us for a moment please.
I take it you've just been briefed by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs on our new reality.
Not only do I find out that the Air Force is engaged in interstellar travel, but I also find out that my running mate knows all about it! - I was under a special executive gag order.
- Since when?! A little over six years now.
That's unbelievable! Mr.
President, I realize that this is a little overwhelming right now, but what you really need to know is that the Stargate is being seriously mis-managed.
It's urgent that we act now.
What are you talking about? I have desperately tried to maintain some proper control and accountability, but the oversight in place is completely inadequate.
The military specifically, the personnel directly involved in the SGC, need to be replaced immediately.
Now, I have several recommendations regarding.
.
Whoa! Bob, hold on! Mr.
President.
Why do you think I was ordered to keep quiet? This was a deliberate attempt by the Military and the previous administration, to drive a wedge between us, because they knew I was going to come after them.
We need to stick together on this.
For God sake Bob, think of the magnitude of this! - For Gods sake is right.
- Oh come on Bob! If you want me to buy into your holier than thou position, you've got to convince me you're right! Hosted alien dignitaries.
Acquired alien technology.
Traveled back in time? Did they really blow up a sun? As I understand it sir.
Yes they did.
It's got to look awfully good on the old resume hey? Yes sir.
They've done some pretty amazing things.
You sound like a fan Francis.
Well I can't help but appreciate the number of times they've saved this world.
Some people think this world wouldn't have needed saving had we left well enough alone.
Well, you can't deny what's out there sir.
The enemy would have come for us anyway.
We need to be prepared and no matter what anyone says, the people at the SGC have done the best job anyone could under the circumstances.
You don't trust the Vice President.
He obviously has his own agenda.
I know he tried to shut them down when he was at appropriations.
Well frankly I think the Vice President knows as well as anyone else, it's too late for that.
If he didn't six years ago, he certainly does now.
What does that mean? He clearly doesn't want to shut the gate down anymore, he wants to control it.
We have a civilian agency known as the NID.
Now its mandate has been to keep an eye on top secret projects like the Stargate program, and has done so from the beginning.
I propose that we give this organization direct control of the gate, effective immediately.
There's only one reason he wanted to give control to the NID.
Because he was about to become Chairman of the Intelligence Oversight Committee.
Which would put the NID and the Stargate in his back pocket.
He had the Ambassadors eating out of his hands.
It was only because of some extraordinary intervention that it didn't work.
Hello? Hello.
I am Thor, supreme commander of the Asgard fleet.
- Commander Thor, my name is.
.
- Senator Kinsey.
O'Neill suggested I send you to a distant planet for your actions here but I am reasonably certain his statement was in jest.
- I'm sure it was Commander.
.
- Supreme Commander.
It is the opinion of the Asgard High Council that Stargate Command should be left in the very capable hands of General Hammond and his team.
And while our continued friendship with Earth is not contingent on that, it is preferred.
I wonder why he wants it so badly.
I mean, besides his belief in his divine right.
I don't know sir.
Not that that's not enough, but I get this feeling that there's something more to it.
Yes sir.
That rogue element at NID, that he took credit for taking down last year.
We've never had any proof connecting Senator Kinsey to anything nefarious.
I'm starting to get a bad feeling about where some of that campaign financing came from.
Mr.
President.
Did I say that out loud? Ah, Mr.
Woolsey.
I hope my confidence in you has not been misplaced.
You have my word sir.
Once I've finished presenting the evidence, the President will have no choice but to follow your recommendation, and clean house at Stargate Command.
I'm sorry to keep you waiting Mr.
President, but I was just wrapping up a meeting with the Joint Chiefs when I got your message.
Francis I thought you'd want to sit in on this one.
Thank you sir.
General I don't believe you know Richard Woolsey.
For the past several months he has been working with the NID conducting a thorough investigation of all Stargate Personnel.
I've asked him here to kindly present us with his findings.
If this is a discussion about the competence of those running the SGC, then shouldn't George Hammond be included? Unfortunately sir.
General Hammond is part of the problem.
George Hammond is a highly decorated officer.
A thirty year veteran with the United States Air Force, and while that may not carry a lot of weight over at the NID, it still means something to certain people in this town.
This isn't a trial General.
Although it certainly wouldn't surprise me if it came to that.
Let's stick to specifics here.
If these people need to be replaced, I want to see evidence.
Thank you Mr.
President.
The most recent incident was less than a month ago.
General Hammond ordered an off-world rescue operation, despite ample indication that he was sending his people into an ambush.
As a result, a very valuable member of Stargate Command was killed, Doctor Janet Fraiser.
Sending your people into potentially dangerous situations is a natural consequence of military command.
Maybe so, but ignoring evidence of an enemy trap is at best foolish and at worst criminally negligent.
General Hammond admits his responsibility.
His own report is essentially a confession.
All that proves is that the man had the guts to own up to his mistakes.
Unfortunately in this case, mistakes can lead to compromising the entire planet.
I've uncovered a mountain of evidence implicating not only General Hammond but his first line team as well.
Those people are Heroes.
We have no intention of minimizing the accomplishments of either the General or SG1.
Their respective achievements speak for themselves.
But, intermittent success' cannot excuse ongoing misconduct.
Over the past seven years, SG1 has shown a disregard for military authority.
They have compromised National security and exercised extremely poor judgment in the performance of their duties.
You should be on my speech writing team.
Come on, cut the crap will ya? As crazy as it sounds, we're sitting around here talking about people who are fighting aliens, right? Could we please be specific.
Yes sir.
Let's start with insubordination.
Approximately five and a half years ago the gate was shut down.
The SGC was under orders to suspend all off world travel pending a full review.
SG1 chose to ignore those orders.
And in the process they managed to head off an invasion.
Nonetheless they were guilty.
And it was by no means an isolated incident.
Let's go.
O'Neill! Not this time, Teal'c.
They sabotaged a mother ship the Goa'uld would have eventually used to attack Earth.
They used the Stargate against the direct order of a superior officer.
You can't hold them accountable for that.
Read the damn mission report.
They were under the influence of an alien device.
Yes of course.
Which brings us to the alarming frequency with which members of SG1 have fallen under alien influence.
Major Samantha Carter.
Implanted with a Goa'uld symbiote and then two years ago her body became host to an alien virus.
Daniel Jackson, fell under the influence of alien technology on numerous occasions.
Had his body play host to not one but twelve alien psyche simultaneously.
Most interestingly of all,.
.
apparently died and according to the report, evolved into a higher being.
Teal'c, an alien.
Former soldier of the Goa'uld.
Now possesses full security clearance at our most secret facility.
He earned that trust.
Yes, that trust almost cost SG1 dearly when he rejoined the ranks of the System Lord Apophis.
Buddy! Whatcha got goin' here, Teal'c? Well done, Tealc! Finally you may resume your rightful position as my first prime.
He'd been brainwashed by the enemy.
Yes, like his fellow team members, he too has shown a vulnerability to alien influence.
Which finally brings us to the team leader, Jack O'Neill.
Infected by alien contagions a half dozen times, experimented on by extraterrestrials another half dozen times.
Had his memories manipulated on numerous occasions.
Had the entire repository of an Ancient alien database effectively downloaded into his head.
Not long after this incident the Colonel began exhibiting strange behavior.
Speaking an alien language, demonstrating super human intellect.
As it turns out he was undergoing some sort of transformation as a result of the knowledge he had absorbed.
Were it not for the timely intervention of another alien race, he would have been lost to us.
How these people maintain their sanity is beyond me.
I'm having trouble just sitting here listening to it.
That Mr.
President is exactly my point.
How can we trust these individuals to protect our planet after everything they've been through.
Well they seem to be handling it very well.
But whose to say they're completely free of these influences.
They're routinely checked and cleared by medical professionals.
We can no longer allow the Pentagon to look the other way.
The number of times the members of SG1 have been compromised, should have warranted at least a consideration of their off-world status.
Transfers to less decisive positions.
A couple of sick days for Gods sake.
The first time I heard about this, I couldn't believe what I was hearing.
I tried to imagine myself doing what these people have been doing for the last seven years, and quite frankly I don't think any of us can really understand what they've been going through.
No matter how many files we read.
All the more reason for intensive scrutiny.
If new protocols and standards of conduct need to be established.
This is where it has to start.
What do you say we take a break? Yes sir.
You can't possibly be taking their side.
I need time to absorb this Bob.
We may not have much time.
The longer those people Relax.
All I'm saying is that at the moment I'm going to give them the benefit of the doubt.
I need to know more.
I think you know all you need to know and that includes why you're here.
I'm here Bob, because the people of this nation elected me to run their country, not the whole damn galaxy.
This is my office Bob not yours, no matter what you may think you did to make this happen.
And don't you ever for one second forget that.
Yes Mr.
President.
Let's take a break.
According to the military, Stargate Command is our first and best line of defense against potential alien threats to this planet.
If that's true, we should be very, very, concerned.
Time and again General Hammond and SG1 have demonstrated shockingly poor judgment.
Placing themselves, the base, this whole planet in jeopardy.
The decision to bring back suspect technology through the gate has precipitated a number of crisis situations.
For the most part they've been deal't with within the confines of the SGC.
However, last year, the effect of an alien device broke containment and found it's way into the civilian population.
Sir, I have reason to believe an individual I came in contact with has breached the quarantine.
The situation was taken care of, a cover story was created and the civilian population was none the wiser.
Well, I for one would like to know how many more times we're going to have to clean up after these people.
They have a mandate to acquire off world technology, and that entails necessary risks.
And how would you define necessary? Only a few months ago, General Hammond allowed the testing of an unproven computer virus that infected and shut down our entire gate network, leaving us open to a potential planetary assault.
You can't hold Hammond responsible for that.
It was a Goa'uld modification of the virus that caused the problem.
In other words General Hammond effectively gave the Goa'uld a weapon to use against us.
Like the President said.
You can't even begin to understand what their jobs demand of them.
Maybe not, but I would like to think that it includes common sense and the willingness to set aside personal feelings in the heat of battle.
What are you referring to Mr.
Woolsey? An incident three years ago when General Hammond allowed emotion to override established Gate room protocol.
Evacuate the Gate room.
Colonel O'Neill, we're taking fire.
Report Colonel O'Neill! Sir Give them more time.
General Hammond's decision to wait for SG1 worked out in the end.
But I can't help but wonder if he'll be so lucky the next time.
The members of Sg1 have similarly suspect priorities, and no wonder.
Not one, but two people that Doctor Jackson had close personal relationships with, were taken as Goa'uld hosts.
Teal'cs family and associates among the ranks of the enemy Jaffa, make him an easy target for Goa'uld retaliation and manipulation.
And both Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter have demonstrated an alarming tendency to let interpersonal relationships cloud their decision making process.
They have a right to their feelings.
Unless of course you're suggesting some kind of inappropriate relationship here? Inappropriate yes.
That is exactly what he's suggesting.
It's difficult to come away from these reports without the distinct impression that there is a lot more going on between Colonel O'Neill and Major Carter than simple friendship and respect.
For example, there was an incident last year in which colonel O'Neill were missing.
Based on a report filed by one of the scientists on the mission in question.
Major Carter's behavior was erratic at best.
Major, this technology's unlike anything we've come across before.
I know.
We have no frame of reference, no way to interface.
I'm working on it, Doctor.
As you should be! Right.
Excuse me? Where's Colonel O'Neill? I don't see him, do you? Did you guys find him while I was gone? I say when we're done here.
That's it? That's your evidence? Oh I believe there's a lot more to this than we've been told.
Look.
Of course I hardly expect them to incriminate themselves in their own reports.
But we can all read between the lines.
Alright, I've heard enough.
Thank you gentlemen.
Thank you Mr.
Woolsey.
Mr.
President.
Mr.
Woolsey is here to see you sir.
Send him in.
Would you like a drink? No thank you.
That was nice work today Richard.
Really? I got the distinct feeling it didn't go so well.
Ah well.
It doesn't matter.
It doesn't? Nah.
The Presidents going to come around.
I didn't get that impression Mr.
Vice President.
In fact I clearly sensed that he was siding with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.
Today was a formality.
Don't get me wrong, the job you did was vital.
The President has to appear to be hearing both sides, considering his position.
He'll see things my way eventually.
And if he doesn't? Things happen.
What is that supposed to mean? It means you chose the right side Richard.
One way or another, I promise you.
I'm going to win this one.
Mr.
President.
General.
I take it you're here to make a case for the defense.
I'm not going to get into a point counter point.
Look it may very well be that Hammond and SG1 have done their very best under difficult circumstances, but there's a political aspect to the Vice Presidents position that makes a lot of sense.
Sir? A lot of people know about the Stargate.
We can't keep it a secret forever.
When it finally comes out, we're going to be in the fight of our lives.
We'll need the publics confidence.
And you think cleaning house at the SGC now shows you're in control.
You disagree? I think there's time for that still sir, but for the immediate future, I'm here to let you know what you're up against.
And why we need Hammond and SG1 right now, more than ever.
Have a seat and fire away.
The System Lords have proven themselves to be formidable adversaries, and yet despite our obvious disadvantage we've managed to hold our own.
Maybe even take them down a notch or two.
We've been good and we've been lucky.
But I'm afraid that could change.
There's a new Goa'uld in the mix.
I take it you're referring to the one who calls himself Anubis.
He's more powerful than any of his predecessors.
He came to our attention a little over a year ago when he tried to take out Earth with an asteroid.
And then used our own Stargate as a weapon against us.
We thwarted him both times.
Since then he's redirected his attention towards his rivals.
Waging a year long war against the Goa'uld.
You're time is up.
Well, it's good for us.
Let them fight among themselves.
The problem is: when he's done with them, and it's only a matter of time, he'll come for us.
And when he does, we'll be facing a whole new threat.
Fire in the hold! A super soldier.
Not just one.
He's got a whole army.
If that's true.
I can't imagine how having Stargate 1 on the front lines is going to make one damn bit of difference when the time comes.
Anubis may be incredibly powerful, but he's not invincible.
There is a way to take him out.
Hows that? By finding the Lost City.
You'll have to forgive me Francis.
I'm not up to speed, I've only gone through about a third of those files.
The gate system was built by a race of highly advanced aliens known as the ancients.
They died off millions of years ago, but it seems that they haven't disappeared completely.
They've evolved into higher life forms.
Well will they help us? No Sir.
Why the hell not? It's beneath them, they won't involve themselves in our affairs.
So where are you going with this? Last year SG1 made an amazing discovery on a planet called Abydos.
Youre going to find the lost city of the Ancients.
Lost city? Didnt tell him about that either, huh? Daniel found a tablet talking about a lost city.
Where there are powerful Ancient weapons capable of giving you a big advantage over Anubis.
Do you know where it is? No, but Ill help you find it.
Hammond and SG1 are close to finding the Lost City, let them do their job Sir.
Let them save this planet one more time.
I wish it were that simple.
I'm not sure what you mean Sir.
The Vice President may be a pain in the ass, but I can't just ignore him.
You're the Commander in chief, it's your decision.
True, but if I cross him on this one.
well let's just say that I haven't viewed all the angles yet.
Is there anything you haven't told me? No Sir.
Then as far as I can tell, Hammond and SG1 have done an extraordinary job under very difficult circumstances.
But in doing so they've made some mistakes, they've made some enemies and frankly I don't know if I can protect them.
General.
Mr.
Woolsey.
Thank you for meeting me.
I take it that the Vice President doesn't know about this.
No and I'd like to keep it that way.
What do you want? I want to warn you.
I think that the Vice President may be involved with people capable of.
.
well.
.
anything.
I believe that they may have attempted assassination at least once before as a means to get what they wanted.
Do you realize the seriousness of what you just said? Yes Sir.
Look, no matter what you might think of me, I consider myself to be a man of integrity.
I took the job with the NID because I believe in civilian oversight of top secret military operations.
- Mr.
Woolsey.
- I don't have any proof Sir, but I am starting to question whether those to whom I have dedicated my allegiance are as honorable as I hoped.
You're a resourceful man Mr.
Woolsey, if you think there's proof out there, find it.
Hammond.
Show him in.
General.
This must have been important for you to have come all this way.
I know you have no reason to trust me General, that's why I felt I had to come here in person.
Sit down.
I take great pride in my work General, my job demands meticulous research and above all us, impartiality in its execution.
My aim is to present an airtight argument, a point of view for considerations of those I serve with no personal agenda whatsoever.
Get to the point.
I stand by my case against you and your personnel, despite what I'm about to say to you.
I hope you don't expect that to gain my respect.
Do you recall the assassination attempt on 'then' Senator Kinsey? And later gained notoriety for bringing those responsible to justice.
I can only assume that you're going somewhere with this.
Let's just say that I've recently come to believe that those behind the rogue element of the NID have not entirely been eliminated.
In fact they may be stronger then ever and Vice President Kinsey may still be tied to them.
They tried to have him killed and then he tried to take them down.
That seems unlikely.
At the time, something must have made Kinsey a liability.
But after the assassination attempt failed, the opportunity presented itself to propel Kinsey onto the presidential ticket.
That could have been enough to motivate a reconciliation.
Either way, I'm not surprised by any of this Mr.
Woolsey.
Well I'm sorry to say that I am, and I want to do something about it if I can.
Like what? Like presenting evidence, if there is any connecting Kinsey to those behind the rogue NID.
What makes you think evidence like that exists? Because you're sitting right there.
I'm sorry? Three years ago you left SGC, supposedly retired.
I'm guessing you were blackmailed.
And? And then you came back, nothing about that ever made any sense to me.
I want to know why, how.
You've got something on Kinsey, something I can use.
That's it.
We're in.
I'm downloading now.
Kinsey's on-line activities connect him to NID actions over the last year and a half, .
.
including the secret operation I ran out of Area 51, .
.
the involvement with the Russians .
.
and the threats to Hammond.
You're a piece of work, Kinsey.
You try to shut down the SGC.
You make a speech about how you hate secret organizations, then jump in bed with the NID.
What is that? I'm done.
What are you going to do? Take down the whole NID? Nope.
Here's the deal.
Get them to reinstate Hammond, or this disk goes to the press.
You've got connections General, you must know what's going down.
That's not the only copy.
Why haven't you given this to someone before now? I didn't know who to trust, I still don't.
Yes Sir, right away.
The President will see you now.
Thank you.
Thank you for seeing me Mr.
President.
Is there something that you wanted to add to your report Mr.
Woolsey? Yes Sir.
As I'm sure you're aware, the NID does not exactly have a spotless record.
For several years, a group of rogue agents operated inside of its ranks.
They were acting on behalf a cabal of international business interests, intent on acquiring alien technology for their own profit.
One could only hope.
Mr.
President? What I'm saying is that one could only hope that money was their chief motivation.
However I doubt that the type of person behind this was short sighted enough for that given what he must know.
In light of the new reality that Stargate presents, there are aspirations beyond mere financial greed that could be much worse.
I agree.
You're here to tell me that the Vice President is still in league with them? If these people are as powerful as we both think it does make one wonder what the Vice President could possibly have offered them in exchange for the price on his head.
Obviously full control of the Stargate program that the White House affords.
The Vice President brought key financing to your campaign victory.
I just hope that it didn't come at too high a cost.
I also hope that history one day shows that I tried to do the right thing.
Who's version of history, Mr.
Woolsey?