Complete
Part 4
Several hours later
Jack paused in the doorway of Carter's lab. She was sitting with her elbows on the table, her head in her hands.
"Carter?"
She quickly raised her head, wiping the back of her hand across her eyes.
"Sir, I didn't hear you."
"I just came to see what you were going to do with your two days off."
"I thought I would get caught up on a couple of things here I've been needing to finish."
"Oh? Like what?"
"Well..." she said as she began searching her desk.
"Carter." She stopped and looked up at him. "Let it go. You did everything you could to get those crystals to work. You had a whole team of scientists helping you and they couldn't figure it out, either."
Biting her lip, she continued, "But sir, I might have missed something..."
Jack moved closer and put a hand on her shoulder. "It's okay, we'll find another way."
"That's not what you were saying earlier," she countered, looking at him accusingly.
"I know, and I was wrong. How many times has Daniel done this to us now?"
Sam snickered. "I've lost count."
"Right, and I think it's time somebody straightened him out. I wanna find him so I can personally kick his butt."
Sam smiled. "With all due respect, sir, get in line." She quickly sobered. "How are we going to find him with the S & R missions halted?"
"We've got allies. That's what they're for—to. . .ally with. We just need to keep pushing. Sooner or later one of them will come up with something. The more people working on the problem the more chance we have of finding him. And we will, Carter," he finished, pulling her into a hug.
"I know, sir," she said, returning the embrace.
Jack opened the door, flipped on the light, and entered the cluttered office. After leaving Carter's lab he had felt the need to come to Daniel's office. Maybe it was silly, but he needed to surround himself with Daniel's "stuff." He wouldn't admit it if anyone saw him, but he felt closer to Daniel here. A half-empty coffee mug sat on the desk next to a stack of folders. There was a rock covered in squiggles sitting amidst papers in Daniel's handwriting. He picked it up, turning it, tracing the ancient text with his finger. He almost expected to hear Daniel's voice.
"Jack?'
"Daniel?"
"Put that down."
"What, this rock?"
"Artifact."
"If you say so."
"I do."
God, he was having an entire conversation in his head! He missed the real thing.
"The one you seek is ready to be found."
The voice caused him to jump, nearly dropping the rock. He carefully laid it back on the desk and looked up at the owner of the voice standing across the room. He found himself looking at the familiar face of Oma Desala. Jack realized this was the first time he had ever heard her speak.
"What?"
"The one you seek is ready to be found."
"Yeah, I got that. But, what do you mean, he's ready? Are you trying to tell me he wasn't ready before?"
"There is a time for every purpose and now is the time. You must go to him."
"Wait, wait, wait. Are you saying you know where he is? That you've known all along?" Jack said, his voice rising in anger with each syllable.
"Yes. There was something he needed to find first. He is now ready for your help."
"I don't believe this! We could have gotten him back weeks ago! What was so important for him to find that it was worth being taken by a Goa'uld?" He suddenly realized he was giving in to his anger instead of asking about Daniel's welfare. "I'm sorry. Is he okay?"
"He has survived, but he will need your help to continue to do so. You have five days."
Survived? Survived what? As much as Jack wanted to ask, he knew he'd better save it and concentrate on finding out where Daniel was.
"Where is he? How do we find him?"
"The one you seek has left the answer for you."
Oh, here we go with the cryptic answers. "What does that mean?"
"The wise man, even though he is wise, does not always recognize the elephant standing before him."
Gah! He hated this. Daniel had left him a clue about an elephant that was going to tell them where he was? It didn't make sense.
"Please, Oma, just tell me where he is."
"I cannot. But Daniel has told you himself."
Jack closed his eyes and rubbed his temples trying to stem the headache forming there.
"Do not miss the tree for the forest, O'Neill."
A flash behind his eyelids made him open his eyes and look up. Oma's form was changing into the glowing multi-tendriled shape he had become familiar with.
"Wait!" he yelled.
"Remember—five days." And with that the ancient being floated to the ceiling and disappeared, just as he had seen Daniel do.
Jack plopped back into Daniel's chair, trying to make sense of the things Oma had told him. 'The wise man doesn't always recognize the elephant in front of him.' So, whatever clue Daniel left was something right in front of him. He looked around Daniel's office, cluttered with books and artifacts. It could be anything. 'Don't miss the tree for the forest.' Wait, isn't that backwards? And then it clicked. The forest was the office, the tree a single artifact. But which one? 'Recognize the elephant in front...' He looked down at the rock he had been playing with earlier. He picked it up, watching the light play across the squiggles carved into it. This had to be it! He needed someone to translate this as soon as possible, not forgetting Oma's foreboding warning of "five days." He quickly jumped up from the chair, clutching the rock—artifact—the key to finding Daniel-- to him as he headed for Carter's lab.
5 Days Later
Daniel sat up in bed and pushed the covers back. It was still an hour before dawn, but he knew he would get no more sleep tonight. Their weeks of planning would come to fruition tomorrow—later today he reminded himself—and he had had a restless night, worry over the details of their plan keeping him from getting any rest. He slipped out of bed, dressed, and headed for his classroom. Once there, he headed straight for the balcony, hoping the fresh air would clear his head. The first hints of pink were beginning to tinge the horizon. He leaned on the railing and began reviewing their plan.
Today Thoth would send a troop of Jaffa through the gate in search of more slaves. Once there, one of their people would keep watch for half an hour to make sure the Jaffa didn't make an immediate return. If the half hour passed without their return, it would be assumed that they were retrieving their quarry. The sentry would then send a signal that would be passed to waiting messengers who would make sure it reached the two places that were going to serve as diversions—causing the Jaffa to shift their placements in response. One of the sites was the laundry in the servants' quarters where a small fire would be started. The other was the livestock pens where animals would be set loose. Hopefully, many of the Jaffa would be split between these two sites in attempts to bring the problems under control. This would leave most of the slaves free to move about. Each of the rebel groups they had organized would be responsible for a particular task. The first group to act would be those working in the armory. They were to try to take and distribute as many zats and staff weapons as possible. Another group would try to keep the main city gates open. Another would be sent to watch the stargate. Other groups would station themselves around the palace to protect those leaving and to stop any Jaffa coming to aid those in the palace. Because the children trusted them, Daniel and Makare had been chosen to be in charge of getting the women and children to a safe place outside of the palace. A group of slaves with combat experience would join Val'nor and a contingent of his loyal Jaffa, entering the palace to confront Thoth and his Jaffa. They were fortunate that Kresh'nar was leading the offworld group—but that meant Val'nor would still have to face Mal'rac.
Daniel knew there was no way to avoid bloodshed. Thoth and his Jaffa might opt to flee the planet, but he doubted it. The slaves all knew they were putting their lives at risk by implementing this plan. But their desire for freedom for themselves and their families made them willing to take that risk. Once again he thought of the Abydonians and the sacrifices they made to free themselves from Ra's rule. He hoped their efforts today would be as successful. The alternative was unthinkable.
As the sun began to peek over the horizon, Daniel straightened, taking a deep breath and letting it out, calming and focusing himself. He had confidence in Val'nor—he was strong and capable— almost as good as Teal'c. And Cimon was intelligent and a natural leader. But he thought how much more confidence he'd have in the success of their plans if Jack, Sam, and Teal'c were with him now.
He closed his eyes as a gentle breeze brushed his face. It lingered as though a hand were caressing his cheek.
You are not alone. Help is on the way.
"Oma," he whispered, knowing immediately it was her. Before he could say another word, the breeze disappeared, the caress stopped, and the voice was gone. He opened his eyes and smiled, his confidence bolstered by the promise of help on the way.
An hour and a half later he was in his classroom beginning the day's lesson. It was hard to concentrate knowing the alarm would soon be sounding. The sound of someone entering the room interrupted his thoughts. He turned to see Lor'noc and another Jaffa approaching.
"Danyel, your god requests your presence," Lor'noc said.
"Now? I am in the middle of class." Please, not now!
"Immediately. He does not wish to be kept waiting. Ar'tan will stay with your students."
"Very well. Class, keep working. I'll be back soon," he said pointedly, looking at Dan'e. He had already prepared her for what was to happen today.
As he was led to the throne room, his mind raced with possible reasons why he was being sent for. Maybe Thoth just wanted an update on his progress? Whatever the reason, the timing sucked. He smiled inwardly at yet again hearing Jack's influence in his choice of words.
Hammond watched the activity below in the gateroom from his position in the control room. SG-1 and SG-10 were doing their final equipment checks before heading through the gate in an attempt to rescue Doctor Jackson. The entire SGC had been buzzing with activity for the last five days, ever since Colonel O'Neill had spoken to a hastily assembled SG-1 and Gen. Hammond about his encounter with Oma Desala. They had learned from experience not to question the validity of these visits, and Jack's "rock" had immediately been taken to Daniel's department where a team of scientists worked relentlessly until they were able to decipher the writing. One name had emerged—Thoth. A call for assistance had gone out to their allies. They had received no answer from the Asgard and assumed they were occupied with the replicators. They hadn't heard from the Tok'ra, either, which Jack said was probably because of their motto: Don't call us, we'll call you. Teal'c, however, was successful, having found some among the free Jaffa who were familiar with Thoth, and, better yet, knew the address to his homeworld. They had learned that Thoth's main objective was to gain knowledge which he traded to the System Lords in return for their protection. He also educated their future hosts.
Standing in the gateroom, Jack considered what they might face on the other side of the gate. No one had been able to supply them with numbers on the strength of Thoth's army. Plus, they had to locate Daniel. Jack knew that if Thoth had learned anything about Daniel, he would consider him valuable, in which case they might have trouble getting close enough to grab him and get him out of there. They needed to be prepared for anything. Business as usual, he thought.
"Seventh chevron locked," the sergeant announced. The gate sprang to life, its rippling surface beckoning them forward. The waiting teams looked to General Hammond for their signal to go. He addressed them through the microphone, "Godspeed. Bring Doctor Jackson home."
Jack gave a salute to the general before giving the signal for a shock grenade to be tossed through. He then ascended the ramp, followed by his teammates and SG-10 . The general watched the teams disappear through the gate one by one, a prayer for success going with them.
Daniel and his escorts reached the throne room and entered. He immediately went to his knees at the throne's steps, bowing his head in the expected show of submission to Thoth. Thoth was sitting on his throne, several servants hovering around him. Daniel hadn't missed the fact that Mal'rac was standing next to the throne. Thoth rose and descended the steps, stopping on the last one.
"Servant Danyel, I am pleased with the progress you have made teaching the slaves."
"Thank you, my lord."
"It has allowed us to resume our procurement of new slaves through the chappa'ai. Soon you will have new slaves to instruct."
"Yes, my lord," Daniel replied, all too aware of what was taking place even as they spoke. He hated the thought of what those people might be going through. And also aware the signal for their plan to commence could come at any time. He needed to get back to the children.
"I understand your young pupils are making much progress, also," Thoth continued.
"Yes, my lord."
"Mal'rac tells me they particularly enjoy your stories about travel to other planets and the civilizations there."
Daniel wondered where this was going and what Mal'rac's interest was.
"Yes, my lord."
"Mal'rac believes these are real planets and civilizations you speak of. He thinks you have knowledge of some that we are unfamiliar with."
Daniel was beginning to see the focus of the questions. "They are just stories, my lord, passed down from our ancestors or brought to us by visitors through the chappa'ai."
"These visitors may have been telling you of real places. We would like to know more about these civilizations. Do you know the symbols for these worlds so that we might visit them through the chappa'ai?"
"No, my lord. I do not remember the symbols for specific worlds." Please believe that.
An arm came into view, the ribbon device clearly visible on it. A metal-tipped finger reached under his chin and lifted his head so that he was looking directly into Thoth's steely gaze.
"You would not withhold this information from your god?"
"No, my lord," he replied, trying to remain calm.
"How is it you remember the details of all of their history, all of the stories, but do not know the symbols for their worlds? Surely this was recorded along with other information about their worlds?"
"I was not required to learn them, my lord. I do not remember seeing any of them."
Thoth let go of his chin and stepped back. "Perhaps your memory needs some assistance."
Daniel knew the method of Goa'uld "assistance." He waited for the ribbon device to activate, but instead Thoth opened his other palm, displaying another small device. He aimed it at Daniel, pressing some type of button. Pain exploded in his chest, centered on the brand, radiating outward through the rest of his body. He felt rooted to the spot, unable to move while the pain continued. Thoth released the button and Daniel fell forward onto the floor, tremors coursing through his body.
"Do you remember any of the symbols now?"
The tremors began to subside and Daniel took in a shaky breath.
"No, my lord. Please believe me, I'm telling the truth."
"We shall see." But before Thoth could activate the device again, a Jaffa came running into the room.
"My lord, a fire has been reported in the servants' quarters."
"Where?"
"It appears to be in the area of the laundry."
"Is it under control?"
"Not yet. We are short-handed as there has also been a report of livestock loose in the city."
Thoth seemed to consider the situation. "Mal'rac, Kresh'nar is gone, therefore I would like you to go and supervise the Jaffa. Make sure these two situations are taken care of. Take what Jaffa you need and get the fire out first. Gather some of the slaves to find the livestock when you are done. Lor'noc will join you after he has taken Daniel back to his quarters."
"Yes, my lord."
Daniel looked up and saw Mal'rac look back at him with what was almost a smile on his face before turning and leaving the room, followed by the other Jaffa.
Jack exited the gate, immediately crouching with his P-90 aimed and ready. A blast of hot air hit him in the face. Great, another desert. He was followed by Carter, Teal'c, and themembers of SG-10 .
"Carter?"
"Sir?"
"Remind me never to complain about trees again."
"Yes, sir," she replied with a smirk.
He scanned the area around the gate, realizing the shock grenade had done its work. He signaled for the teams to rise and descend the steps, checking for any immediate threats. He saw several unconscious people lying near the base of the gate platform. That didn't surprise him, but the fact that they looked like local inhabitants and not Jaffa did.
"Sir," Carter said, indicating the unconscious people.
"I see them, Carter. Why do you suppose they're here instead of Jaffa?"
"I don't know, but two of them were carrying zats."
"That's odd," he commented.
Taking out his small binoculars, he began searching the area for signs of life. He saw nothing but sand and scrubby brush. A road led from the gate to a city in the distance.
"Williams, Black, stay here and guard the gate. Radio in if there's any activity. Everyone else, let's head for the city. Spread out and keep your eyes open. Something fishy is going on here."
Teal'c merely raised his eyebrow and looked at O'Neill.
"Fishy—strange—out of place."
"Indeed."
The teams followed the road to the city, soon coming upon the rows of statues.
"These are symbols for Thoth," Teal'c commented.
"Well, at least we know we're on the right planet."
They continued, not encountering anyone, Jaffa or otherwise, and soon reached the gates to the city. The sounds of staff fire could be heard in the distance and smoke could be seen rising from somewhere in the city.
At O'Neill's signal, the teams spread out and made their way cautiously into the city. As Jack passed the open gate, two men sprang out from behind it, zats aimed at him. They were dressed like the natives at the gate and appeared very nervous. Jack quickly aimed his P-90 at them, the rest of the teams falling in around him with their weapons raised. The natives began speaking, voices agitated, but Jack didn't understand the language.
"Teal'c, can you understand them?"
"I can, it is very similar to Abydonian. They are asking who we are and why we are here. They also want to know if we are allies of Thoth."
Jack looked them over. They were obviously frightened but doing their best to appear brave. Something strange was definitely going on. Jack decided to take a chance.
"No, we're not allies of Thoth. We're here looking for a friend—Daniel Jackson."
Teal'c translated and Jack saw the spark of recognition light their faces.
"Danyel? You are friends of Danyel?" Teal'c translated.
Thank God, Jack thought on hearing them use Daniel's name.
"Yes, we're his friends. Is he here?"
"Yes. He is helping the women and children to a safe place out of the palace."
"Safe? What's happening here?" Daniel, what have you got yourself into this time?
"We are fighting against Thoth and his Jaffa so that we may be free."
Just then, some cattle came running through the plaza. More sounds of staff weapons firing could be heard.
"Maybe you'd better tell us your plan—we might be able to help."
Teal'c quickly translated the description of the rebels' plans. Jack contemplated how they should handle this and find Daniel. First, he radioed the gate and made them aware of the possibility of returning Jaffa and slaves. Next, he ordered two men to stay and help guard the gate with one of the natives. The other man would lead them to the area of the palace where they would try and intercept Daniel.
They made their way through the streets, once coming upon a group of slaves engaged in fighting a troop of Jaffa. The slaves had the weaker firepower and were losing the fight. SG-1 and SG-10 lent their help, turning the tide.
They continued on and soon came to the far side of the palace. They followed their guide along a wall until they reached what appeared to be a servants' entrance, guarded by several rebels. Jack noticed only one of them had a weapon—a staff weapon at that. Their guide spoke to them and they were allowed to enter. They made their way through the kitchen area and on to an area of private rooms. After a few more twists and turns, they came to a hall where their guide cautioned them to be quiet as they approached a room. Guns held ready, they entered the large room, noticing immediately that it held a group of women and children. One of the women was standing over an apparently unconscious Jaffa, a broken ceramic jar in her hands. She jumped as they entered and quickly moved to place herself between them and the children. She seemed to relax when she saw their guide. He stepped forward and began conversing with her. As he spoke, Jack saw her shift her gaze to him. They only word he recognized in the conversation was "Danyel."
"Teal'c, what are they saying?"
"Apparently, Daniel Jackson was supposed to be here to take them out of the palace. Makare," he indicated the woman looking at Jack "says a Jaffa came and took Daniel Jackson to see Thoth and has not returned."
"That's not a good sign."
Weapons fire could be heard coming from somewhere in the palace.
"Sir," Carter spoke up, "We should get these people out of the palace to somewhere safe."
"Yeah. Why don't you and Teal'c go with our friend here," he said, nodding at their guide, "and see if you can get them to wherever they had planned to meet. I'm going after Daniel."
"Sir, by yourself?"
"I can look after myself. These people are going to need your protection. You don't know how many Jaffa you might encounter on the way."
The woman, Makare, approached Jack and laid her hand on his arm. "Look for Danyel?" she asked haltingly.
"You speak English?" Jack asked.
"Little. Danyel teach. I help find Danyel."
"It's too dangerous. You need to go with the others," he said, gesturing to the group preparing to depart.
"Know where to look. I help."
Jack reluctantly realized he would have no idea where in the huge palace to look for Daniel. He sighed. "Go, Carter. Makare's staying with me. Contact every thirty—sooner if need be."
"Good luck, sir," she said, turning to take up position with the departing group.
"Okay, Makare, which way?"
Daniel looked up at Thoth who once again seemed to be considering his next move.
"Lor'noc, return Danyel to his room and restrain him. The rest of our conversation will have to wait."
"Yes, my lord," Lor'noc replied, grabbing Daniel by one arm and pulling him to his feet. He swayed slightly—the pain had subsided but he was left feeling weak.
Thoth left the room, followed by his servants. Lor'noc grabbed Daniel's right wrist while pulling out a metal link with closures on either end.
"I believe it would be best to restrain you now," he said, snapping the link to the cuff on his wrist, followed by the left one. "We would not want you causing trouble."
Daniel's brain was slightly fuzzy as he tried to comprehend what was happening. I'm being taken to my quarters? And restrained? He looked at his wrists—clasped tightly together with no room for movement. No—I have to help Makare get the kids out! Dan'e! He tried to pull loose from Lor'noc's grasp, but he was held securely.
"Move!" he was ordered as he was shoved forward. He had to think of a way out of this. Their plan had been set in motion and he needed to be out there. He felt his strength slowly returning and knew he had to make his move before he was locked in his quarters. As they turned a corner, he pretended to stumble and went to his knees. As Lor'noc bent down to pull him up, he shifted his arms to the right, shoving his elbows into the Jaffa's face. Lor'noc staggered back, losing his hold on his staff weapon as he brought a hand up to his bleeding nose. Daniel lunged toward the staff weapon, grabbing it awkwardly with his bound hands. Unable to activate it in this position, he turned and swung it as hard as he could at Lor'noc's head, causing the man to drop to the floor, unconscious.
Daniel's hands were bound too closely for him to be able to unhook the closures connecting them. He picked up the staff weapon, holding it awkwardly again. He might not be able to fire it, but he could still use it as a club. He heard the sound of weapons fire and knew Val'nor and his men must be engaging Thoth's troops. He needed to find Makare and Dan'e and the rest of their group and make sure they got out of the palace. He turned and headed in the direction of his classroom, praying that Oma was right and help was on the way.
Daniel tried to move as stealthily as he could down the hallways. He slowed, listening for footsteps approaching before peering around a corner. Seeing no one, he turned and moved down the empty corridor. As he came to the next corner, he suddenly found himself face to face with the barrel of a P-90.
Jack heard faint footsteps and cautiously peered around the corner. At the far end of the hall he could see what looked like a native with a staff weapon coming towards them. Not sure if he were friend or foe, he decided to err on the side of caution. He motioned for Makare to stay put, then he waited until he could hear the person coming close to the corner and swung himself around, P-90 raised. Relief flooded through him the instant he realized who he was facing.
"Daniel?"
"Jack? Am I glad to see you! I was afraid you might not get here in time."
"Geez, Daniel, I thought you were one of the natives in the get up. And how did you know I..." he began before it hit him, "Oma?"
Daniel nodded and gave a half-smile.
Noticing Daniel's bound hands, Jack moved to release him. "Here, let me help you."
He took the staff weapon from Daniel and handed it to Makare who had come to join them.
"Thanks, it's not exactly comfortable."
"Danyel, are you all right?" Makare asked, hugging him.
"I'm fine."
"What happened?" Jack asked.
"Long story," he said, rubbing his wrists.
"Oookay," Jack drawled. "I'll put that on the list of things to discuss when we get home."
Daniel lifted his eyebrows. "There's a list?"
"Oh, yeah."
Deciding not to pursue that further, but instead focus on their current problem, Daniel asked, "Makare, did you get the children out?"
"Yes, your friends took them. But there is a problem."
"What?"
"Mal'rac came and took Dan'e."
His heart jumped to his throat. Why would Mal'rac take Dan'e? "Did he say why, Makare?"
"No. He just took her and told Ar'tan to stay and watch the others."
"Daniel?" Jack interrupted, "What's going on?"
"Makare said that Mal'rac came and took Dan'e," Daniel explained, translating her words.
"Who, and who?"
Daniel hesitated. Did he want to go through the whole story with Jack now? Time was short, but he decided Jack needed as much information as possible.
"Mal'rac is a Jaffa—a pretty nasty guy. He took Dan'e. She's one of the children. Jack... she's my daughter."
Jack heard the words but his brain was having trouble processing them. "Whoa—what did you say?"
"Dan'e is my daughter. Jack, I don't have time to explain. We've got to find her. Mal'rac might hurt her."
"Okay, okay Let's go," he said as Makare handed Daniel the staff weapon. "But this is definitely going on the list. Where do we look?"
"I don't know. I'm not sure why he would want her. Unless... unless he's using her to get to me." But how would he know to choose Dan'e?
"And why does he want you?"
Daniel looked at him again, trying to decide how much to tell him. "Umm. . . another long story?"
"This list is getting pretty damn long, Daniel. I can see I'm going to have to stock up on the beer."
Daniel knew Jack was just trying to lighten the mood and he appreciated it. It felt so good to hear Jack being his snarky self. It just felt good to hear Jack at all.
"Thanks, Jack. I guess let's start with places he knows I would go. The classroom's out, so let's try the library."
"Classroom?"
"Ja-ack."
"Okay, okay It's on the list. Lead the way to this library."
The three of them made their way down another hall. The sound of staff fire could still be heard but they encountered no one on their trek. The library proved to be empty of people. Jack craned his neck, taking in the staggering number of books. "Whoa."
"Jack, when this is all over, Sam has got to see this. There's information on a lot of Goa'uld technology I know she'd be interested in."
"Good thing she's not here now, we'd never get her out," Jack commented. "Where to next?"
"I don't know. I guess we should try the gardens and slaves' quarters."
"All right, lead on."
Just then Jack's radio came to life.
"Sir," came Sam's voice.
"Go ahead, Carter."
"The women and children are safe for the moment, but we have another problem."
Daniel's eyes met Jack's as he responded, "What is it?"
"Sir, some of the rebels have told us that a Jaffa troop has retaken the armory, cutting off their weapons supply and capturing the rebels there. They've asked us to help them confront the Jaffa and free the rebels."
"Do you think you and Teal'c can leave your group and go check it out?"
"Yes, sir. We'll leave a couple of armed people here with them and take the rest with us."
"Fine. But remember, we don't want to get in over our heads here. Keep me posted."
"Yes, sir."
Jack belatedly realized he hadn't told Carter that he had found Daniel.
Daniel was wondering why the Jaffa would have left the two situations they were handling to come back to the armory. How would they know to do that? Before he could voice his concerns, Jack's radio crackled again.
"Colonel O'Neill, this is Kendrick. A troop of Jaffa showed up at the main city gate. We were outnumbered and had to fall back. I'm afraid we lost control of the gate, sir."
"Any casualties?"
"Meyers took a hit to the shoulder and one of the locals was also injured. Nothing life-threatening, sir."
"Stay out of sight and let me know if there's any more activity there."
"Yes, sir."
Jack scrubbed a hand over his face. It sounded like things were starting to heat up and he had his team members too spread out. Maybe it was time to pull everyone back together and find a way out of here. He hadn't heard from Williams and Black who were guarding the stargate, and wondered if that was a good or bad sign. He clicked his radio, "Williams, Black, what's your status?"
"Everything's quiet here, sir."
"Well, things are heating up here, so stay alert."
"Yes, sir," Williams answered.
Daniel couldn't believe what he was hearing. The Jaffa were regaining control. Their plan was falling apart. How had this happened? They had to do something fast if they didn't want to see their plan fail.
"Jack, can you radio Sam and Kendrick and tell them to spread the word to everyone to go to Plan B?"
"You have a Plan B?" Jack said, trying not to sound too surprised.
"Yes, Jack. We have several locations around the city wall that were intentionally weakened when we were repairing them. Some of the men will take some tools that have been hidden and break through the weak spots. Some of the people may at least be able to get out and make it to the stargate."
"Good thinking, Daniel," Jack said, impressed with the planning that had gone into this.
"Thanks, Jack. I had lots of help. But we've still got to find Dan'e."
"We will," Jack said, reassuringly placing a hand on Daniel's shoulder. "Let's just be cautious. If this guy, Mall Rat, has got it in for you, he's probably got something planned for when you meet up with him."
"I know. I just can't stand the thought he might be hurting Dan'e."
Jack radioed Kendrick and gave him Daniel's message. Next he radioed Sam.
"Carter."
"Here, sir."
"Daniel says to pass the word to the natives to go to Plan B."
"Daniel?" she asked, excitement in her voice. "You found him, sir?"
"Sure did. Although I almost didn't recognize him at first. Guess I'm just not used to seeing him in a skirt."
Daniel glared at him.
"That's good news, sir. I mean. . . about finding Daniel, not, you know, about the skirt," she stammered.
Jack smiled, enjoying Daniel's discomfort. "I'll fill you in on the details, later, Major. For now, just relay the message and keep regular check-ins."
"Yes, sir," she replied. Daniel could have sworn she sounded amused.
He knew he was going to be in for some major ribbing once they got back to the SGC. Jack just wouldn't be able to resist.
With that, they headed for the exit leading to the gardens and the slave quarters beyond. They kept low as they entered the gardens, pausing to scan the area as they went. Daniel was slightly ahead of Jack and had just stepped into an open spot on the path when he heard the voice he dreaded.
"Danyel. I knew you would come. I have been following your progress since you left the throne room."
Daniel's blood chilled at the words. That could only mean that Mal'rac had been using the tracking device. Makare and Jack had quickly taken cover behind some bushes. Daniel could only hope that Mal'rac was unaware of their presence.
"What do you want with me?" Daniel challenged, holding the staff weapon ready.
At that moment, Mal'rac stepped into view. He was standing in a vine-covered arbor, left arm encircling Dan'e's chest, right hand holding a knife to her throat. Daniel froze at the sight.
"I have plans for you, Danyel. And if you don't cooperate, your daughter will die."
Daniel had no question that he would do it, too. He was cold-blooded enough to take her life. But how did Mal'rac find out Dan'e was his daughter? He needed to get her away from him.
"Your quarrel is with me. Let her go."
"Quarrel? You have been a thorn in my side from the day you arrived here. You have caused me to lose favor with my God. However, my status will improve greatly, even exceeding that of Kresh'nar, when I present my God with the instigator of the 'failed' uprising."
Mal'rac was enjoying the look of confusion on Daniel's face.
"Yes, I knew you and the other slaves were planning something. When the fire broke out and the livestock escaped, I knew your plan had begun and I sent the Jaffa to contain the slaves first. And now you will all feel the wrath of Thoth."
Had someone overheard them or did they have a traitor in their midst? It didn't matter—the only thing that mattered at the moment was saving Dan'e. He knew Jack would be moving into position to take out Mal'rac. If he could just get him to release Dan'e and give Jack a clear shot.
"You don't need Dan'e. She is just a child and has nothing to do with this. Let her go and I will come with you freely."
"Yes, you will go with me. Your punishment by Thoth will be great. But not until I have first had the satisfaction of hearing you beg for mercy."
During the course of the conversation, Jack had left Makare hidden and silently circled around to try and get an open shot at Mal'rac. There were too many bushes and trees to get a clear shot. If he missed, or was off with his aim, Mal'rac might jerk and injure Dan'e with his knife. Even without understanding them, he hadn't liked the tone of Mal'rac's last words. He needed to end this now.
"Move closer, Danyel. Now!" Mal'rac ordered, tightening his hold on Dan'e so that she cried out.
"All right, I am! Just don't hurt her," Daniel replied as he moved closer to the pair.
"Drop the weapon and kneel."
Daniel did as he was told, hoping Jack would get a chance to take his shot.
Keeping the knife close to her throat, Mal'rac released the hold he had on Dan'e with his other hand. Opening his palm, Daniel could see a device identical to the one Thoth had used on him earlier.
Seeing that Daniel recognized it, Mal'rac gloated, "Yes, there is more than one of these devices, Danyel. They are all equally effective." With that, he depressed the button and Daniel was hit with the same paralyzing pain he had felt earlier.
Jack saw Daniel's body stiffen and a cry of pain escape his lips. What was the Jaffa doing to him? Jack knew it was now or never. He settled himself and carefully aimed his P-90 at Mal'rac's head. Just as he was about to pull the trigger, he felt a bolt of white-hot pain erupt in his arm. It sent him flying backward, his gun tumbling from his hands. He looked up to see a Jaffa approaching, staff weapon in hand. He scrambled for his gun as the Jaffa took aim again. He heard Makare shout something just before a large rock impacted with the Jaffa's face. While the Jaffa was temporarily stunned, Jack had just enough time to lift his gun, and with shaking fingers, pull the trigger. The Jaffa dropped like a rock.
The noise from the scene playing out to Mal'rac's left distracted him, causing him to momentarily lower the knife. Seeing this, Dan'e reached for the hand holding the pain device and sunk her teeth into it. With a yelp, Mal'rac dropped the device. Before Dan'e could get away, Mal'rac grabbed her and tossed her aside, her body impacting with a vine-covered pillar before sliding motionless to the ground.
Daniel crumpled to the ground when the device deactivated. He looked up at Mal'rac in time to see him toss Dan'e against a pillar. She slid to the ground where she lay unmoving. Fury began to boil in him, coursing through his veins and overriding his pain, bringing him to his feet. Before Mal'rac could act, Daniel lunged at him, knocking him off his feet, the knife flying from his fingers and skittering across the stone floor. Daniel momentarily had the upper hand and he slammed his fist into Mal'rac's jaw. Mal'rac quickly recovered and used his superior strength to slam his own fist into Daniel's cheek. It sent him flying backwards, sliding to a stop a few feet away. Out of the corner of his eye, Daniel saw the knife lying close by. He turned onto his stomach and scrabbled towards it. Just as his fingers curled around it, he felt Mal'rac grab his ankle with a fierce grip.
"I am not done with you, slave," he growled as he moved closer.
Daniel flipped himself so he was lying on his back, twisting his ankle free of Mal'rac's grip. With the last of his flagging strength, he used one hand to propel himself up and forward, the other hand tightly gripping the knife as it sank deeply into Mal'rac's chest. The Jaffa's eyes went wide in surprise before his body pitched forward. Daniel scrambled to get out of the way. Mal'rac hit the ground and made a gurgling sound before going still.
"But I am done with you," Daniel said.
Jack looked down at his injured arm, the sleeve still smoking slightly and the skin between elbow and shoulder burnt and oozing blood. As much as it hurt, his main concern was for Daniel. He looked over to where he had last seen his friend, realizing he was now lying on the ground. A yelp from Mal'rac brought his attention to the Jaffa in time to see him send a young girl flying into a nearby pillar, then slide motionless to the ground. Before he could move to stand, he saw Daniel tackle the Jaffa, the two men wrestling on the floor of the arbor. He lifted his P-90 again, moaning at the pain it caused his arm. He tried to steady himself to get a clear shot and cursed when he realized they were too close together to safely shoot. He saw the Jaffa suddenly stiffen before pitching forward. Daniel hadn't moved and Jack felt the need to get to his friend and make sure he was okay. Makare suddenly appeared at his side and helped him to his feet. They both headed for the arbor where Daniel was now checking the young child.
Daniel stared at the body of his tormentor lying still next to him, and at his own hand which had held the knife. The shock of killing Mal'rac wa quickly replaced by Daniel's concern for Dan'e. He crawled over to her and touched her face, calling her name. As he did so, Jack and Makare entered the arbor and kneeled next to him.
"Dan'e, Dan'e," Daniel gently implored.
She stirred and took in a gulping breath. "Danyel?"
"Shh, lie still and let me make sure you're okay"
Finding no broken bones, he gently pulled her into his lap. She wrapped her arms around his neck and cried gently.
"Is she okay?" Jack asked.
"I think so. Nothing appears to be broken."
"Probably just knocked the wind out of her," Jack replied.
Makare ran her hand across Dan'e's head and continued to soothe her with comforting words. It was then Daniel noticed Jack's arm.
"Jack, you're injured."
"I'll live."
Makare moved next to Jack and took hold of his arm. "I will help."
"No, it's okay. It can wait."
"No, I help," she said sternly, giving him a look that said "don't argue."
Jack sighed. "Okay"
Makare ripped a strip from the bottom of her dress and began fashioning a sling.
"Remind you of anyone?" Daniel asked with a smile.
"Oh, yeah," Jack agreed.
Jack indicated Mal'rac with a nod of his head. "Dead?"
"Yeah," Daniel said quietly, looking back at the body again. He turned his eyes to Jack who saw in them no remorse, only the resolve of someone who did what was necessary to protect their family.
Family. So this is Daniel's daughter, Jack thought as he looked again at the girl in Daniel's lap. He could only see the back of her head which was covered in dark hair pulled back into a single braid. At that moment she lifted her head and looked at Jack, shrinking back against Daniel upon seeing someone she didn't know. Jack thought he could be looking at a young Sha're except for a single feature—her blue eyes. There was no question who her parents were. But how was this possible? Part of him wanted to sit Daniel down and get the whole story out of him now. But he knew they didn't have the luxury of time—it would have to wait.
"It's okay, Dan'e. This is Jack."
Her face brightened as she looked from Jack to Daniel. "Jack?" Then she said something in her language that Jack didn't understand.
"Yes," Daniel said smiling.
Jack looked at Daniel quizzically.
"She wants to know if you are the Jack from my stories."
"Stories?" Jack asked, still puzzled.
Before Daniel could answer, Jack's radio crackled and Sam's voice came through.
"Sir, we're at the armory."
"Report."
"It doesn't look good, sir. There are about eight Jaffa and they've captured about a dozen natives. They've got them on their knees in front of the armory building. Teal'c says they are threatening to kill them if the rest don't surrender."
"Any chance you can take them out?"
"Not without a lot of civilian casualties, sir."
Jack ran a hand through his hair. His arm was throbbing along with his head. They didn't have the numbers to take on the Jaffa without the natives' help. This was supposed to be a grab and run mission. Get in, grab Daniel, and run. He hadn't planned on becoming part of a revolution. Déją vu. He looked at Daniel and saw the unspoken plea in his eyes.
"Daniel..."
"Jack, we can't abandon these people. You know what the Jaffa will do to them."
"Daniel, we're outnumbered and some of us aren't 100%. The odds aren't good."
"They knew that going into this—they're fighting for their freedom. We've got to try."
Jack sighed. Why did he let Daniel get to him like this? He didn't want to leave these people in the hands of the Jaffa either, but he also didn't want to get his team killed trying to save them. He didn't like his choices, but he knew which one he was going to choose. He hoped he wouldn't regret this.
"Then we've got to come up with a new plan," Jack said, seeing Daniel smile at his decision.
"Carter?"
"Yes, sir."
"Got any of those shock grenades left?"
"I think so, sir, let me check." There was a pause then, "Yes sir—one left. Are you thinking of setting it off with the civilians present?"
"Yeah. The effects aren't permanent. Then we can sort the good from the bad."
"What about the civilians, sir? It will take a while for them to wake up. Are we leaving them here or taking them with us through the gate?"
Damn. He hadn't thought about that. What were they going to do with all of these people? "Stand by, Carter. "
He turned to Daniel. "What were these people planning to do if your little rebellion succeeded?"
"If Val'nor and his Jaffa are successful in getting rid of Thoth, those people who have lived here their whole lives want to stay and govern themselves. Those slaves who were brought here more recently want to go back through the gate to their homes."
"And do you know the symbols for their worlds so you can send them home?"
"Well, a couple of them."
"What were you planning to do with rest?"
"Umm... take them back to the SGC until we can find their worlds?"
"Just how many are we talkin' about?" Jack asked, exasperation creeping into his voice.
"Maybe 100?"
"Daniel, we can't take all of them back to the SGC indefinitely!"
"We have to, Jack. I promised them."
"Of course you did." He'd expect nothing less. Just like old times. "What about this Val'nor? We don't know if he's gonna be able to take out Thoth."
"I have faith in him, Jack. He and his men want their freedom as much as Teal'c did. They're prepared to fight and they won't give in easily. We'll just have to trust that they'll be successful."
"Then we're going to need reinforcements," Jack said. He tapped his radio. "Williams, Black."
"Yes, sir," Williams replied.
"Dial the SGC and tell Hammond we're going to need reinforcements ASAP—at least two teams, if possible, and have them combat ready."
"Yes, sir," Williams replied.
"And Williams, there may be some natives coming your way. They're friendly. Tell them..." he looked at Daniel for the words. "How do they tell them you want them to wait there?"
"Danyel maj-wa ah-ha-ah," Daniel supplied.
"Danyel maj-wa ah-ha-ah. Got that?"
"Uh, yes, sir."
"Tell Hammond we may need to bring some of them back to the SGC—temporarily," he added, looking pointedly at Daniel.
"Yes, sir," Williams replied.
"Thanks, Jack."
"Don't thank me yet. This isn't over."
"Carter."
"Yes, sir?"
"Hold off on using the shock grenade. Looks like we're going to be taking some of these people through the gate with us, so we're going to need them mobile. I'm headed your way. Where are you?"
"On the roof of the building across from the armory. You can enter at the back."
"Roger that. Stay out of sight for now."
"Yes, sir."
"Jack, I'm coming with you."
"No, Daniel, you need to go with Dan'e and Makare."
"You're injured—do you really think you're going to be much help to Sam and Teal'c?"
"I'll manage. I shot him, didn't I?" he said with a tilt of his head towards the Jaffa he'd tangled with.
"Yes, and he shot you, which is why you're not '100%'."
Ouch. Jack's own words had come back to bite him in the butt. But he wasn't giving in that easily.
"We can't afford to sit and wait for the reinforcements. Carter and Teal'c need help now. Besides, someone needs to get Dan'e and Makare to safety and get them out of the city. That someone is you," he said, pointing his finger at Daniel's chest for emphasis. For once just do what I tell you, Daniel. He needed to know that Daniel and his daughter were safe.
