Really a very deeply moving story - and one of the few times I think Rodney's intelligence in this kind of situation has been adequately portrayed, by which I mean of course he would realize his best option is to "play along" until he could manipulate the situation to his interests. I do wonder what he's thinking about "changing the past" if this all real and not some trick/VR/etc. Remaking the world might mean he never gets home; but then, looks like he's ready to launch his OWN Atlantis expedition in a few years anyway. Innnnteresting!

The ambiguity is interesting and very well done; while I'm fairly sure he's been transplanted somehow, you still leave a lot of doors open to what might really be going on.

Also, as a pet owner, I really relate to Rodney's reaction to seeing Max again *sniffles* and his determination not to be separated from him again, no matter what. YAY!

I know you've said you're starting a sequel, which I do hope you finish as I'd love see your vision for what happens next, but the story really stands on it's own. Wonderful writing. Thank you!