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Emily and Nicholas were sound asleep. Casey poured more coffee, and sat down at the counter next to Daniel. "So, do we retire?"

"I don't know, babe. Before we left, I had pretty much made up my mind that that's what I wanted. Seeing you in that throne room, the way Nergal was looking at you, that almost cinched it for me. But…when I stood there, you by my side, and we used the Fire to destroy those ships…" he shook his head.

"Daniel, just how strong are you…now?"

"I don’t know Angel. Usually I don't know I can do something until I have no choice but to try," he replied honestly.

"You're The Chosen, my heart. I have the feeling that retirement isn't exactly in the plans for you."

"I know. But babe, if you want to stay home, take care of the kids…"

She put her fingers on his lips. "Together, Daniel. Lya said that together we can't be defeated. I'll be by your side, always."

He kissed her fingertips. "Together, always," he said softly.

"Thank you for being there for me," she said softly. "It was your gentle touch that kept me from falling apart."

"I'll always be there, Casey. If my touch helps you, then it's yours." He reached out and touched her mind with his, the tender, loving caress bringing a warm smile to her face.

"Let's go to bed," she whispered. "I need to hold you."

"I need to hold you, Angel." He stood up, frowned, bit his lip, then looked at her. "You didn't think he was…handsome…did you?"

"He was good looking enough. But no Adonis," she smiled. She reached out and touched his mind with hers, caressed away his fears and worries.

He grinned, pulled her to her feet, and led her to the bedroom.

Klare pointed to a large area on a map that was spread over a table. "This area was held by Geb. He has disappeared, and is presumed dead. It would take nothing for you to absorb his holdings into your own, my Lord," he said.

Nergal scanned the list of planets. Near the bottom was one called Pangeria. The notation said that only a small village of farmers was located there, although they did guard their Stargate. He tossed the list aside. He would have to go to each of those planets, take them, demonstrate his power to the people on each one. Soon. He would do that soon. Right now he wanted to know to where two slave traders had disappeared. He smiled, though the action lacked warmth. "She will indeed be a pleasure to train," he said softly.

THE END

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