Chapter 38 (1/2)

Atlantis

Thunderstruck by what she said the doctor found he had trouble responding. Understanding his surprise Atlantis continued speaking.

”I have followed your work closely Radek. You remind me much of those whom I watched over many ages ago. Thank you for allowing me to once again interact with those here. We will learn much from each other” she said.

”Atlantis, I do call you Atlantis correct” asked Woolsey.

”Yes Mr. Woolsey, please address me as Atlantis” she said.

”I have so many questions for you” stuttered Zelenka.

”In time I will answer them all. Before that much must be done with my systems” she answered.

”Yes, of course” said Radek.

”What must be done Atlantis” asked Woolsey.

”Many of my systems require recalibration. I also detect several areas that require repair. With your permission I will begin repairs now” the avatar said.

”Permission granted” responded Woolsey.

”Repairs will not affect systems outside of the effected areas. I will contain accessibility limitations to the north and west piers for now. During this time I will integrate the defensive satellites in this solar system into my tactical network. Integration of these units will take a few moments” she responded.

”You can control the laser platform satellites” asked Zelenka.

”Of course Radek. My primary directive is to safeguard those in my care. Unless otherwise directed all defensive and information collection assets within the galaxy fall within my purview. While this integration is performed do you have another task to be performed” Atlantis asked.

”I have several ancient devices I would like to speak to you about” said Zelenka.

”In time Doctor. Give Atlantis and I a few moments alone to acquaint ourselves in private” said Woolsey.

Walking into the commander's office Woolsey and Atlantis began speaking. Although Zelenka hated waiting he knew that this wait would be worth its weight in gold. The things he would learn! Smiling broadly Radek retreated to his lab to begin working up a list of things he wished to discuss with Atlantis. Mckay eat your heart out was all he could think.

Pluto

After his return from the Destiny repair mission Dr. McKay had remained aboard Arkos station. Looking upon the Athena class as his sole creation Rodney had overseen every step of the lead sh.i.p.s repairs upon their return. So engrossed in his work the scientist never seemed to notice the eyes of crew members rolling when he entered a section of the ship and began to rant and rave. Once certain that repairs would be performed to his exacting standard he sequestered himself in a design lab with nothing but his brilliance, sandwiches, and endless pots of coffee.

Pouring over the design specifications of both ancient and Asgard vessels alike McKay set about not only improving the Athena class's offensive and defensive capabilities but producing the beginnings of the next class of ship. In these ways McKay kept himself entertained. His current train of thought involved finding a way to operate an entire fleet of vessels with subspace capacitors as their sole source of power. Pulling him away from his project momentarily the scientist noticed his radio ear piece calling his name. Tapping the ear bud he devoted his full attention to this newest of distractions.