Complete
Part 5
But Daniel wasn't ready to give in either. "Jack, we can take them to the safe place on the way to the armory. You're going to need someone to show you the way and you might need someone who speaks the language. Not to mention two steady hands to shoot."
Jack's exasperation had reached its limit. "Daniel, we don't have time for this! Let's just get to this safe hiding place and we'll decide what to do from there."
Makare and Dan'e hadn't understood their conversation, and Daniel didn't offer to explain. He told them they were going to meet the others and then make their way out of the city to the stargate.
It wasn't long before they reached the place where the others were waiting. A rebel stepped out of the shadows as they approached, recognizing all of them but Jack. He eyed Jack suspiciously, but evidently decided he must be okay. He opened the door and let them inside. It appeared to be a storage building that looked as though it had been rarely used. Jack counted 11 children, 6 women, and 2 men armed with zats. Daniel began speaking to them in their language while Dan'e and Makare reunited with their friends.
Daniel returned to Jack's side. "I've explained the situation to them and they're going to take the women and children to one of our escape routes and on to the stargate."
"Daniel, you should go with them."
"Jack, we've already been through this. You're going to need my help."
Before Jack could reply, a teenage boy approached them.
"Danyel, I want to come with you. I have been training with the weapons master and I am ready for battle."
"Ankhu, you do know we are fighting against Thoth and his Jaffa?"
"Yes, I have listened to your stories and I have observed the slaves in the city. I want to help free them."
Daniel looked at the young man before him. He was surprised but pleased that he wanted to join their side of the fight. He knew Ankhu thought he was ready for battle, but he also knew the young man had no idea what it would truly be like to be in a real battle. All of his training would not prepare him for having to kill another human being. But, he wasn't going to brush the young man off, either.
"Ankhu, thank you for offering to help Jack and me, but I have another important task that I need your help with."
"What is it?"
"I need someone to protect these women and children and get them safely out of the city and to the chappa'ai. Do you think you can do that?"
"But I have been training for battle. I can help you face the Jaffa."
"That is precisely why I need you to be in charge of this group. We need someone who will be able to fight any Jaffa that might try to stop them." Surely the Jaffa would be busy elsewhere and they would have a clear escape route. And Ankhu would have several other men to accompany him, so he wouldn't be on his own. But more than that, these lives were precious to Daniel and he wouldn't ask Ankhu to do this unless he was confident the young man would do everything he could to protect them. He hoped Ankhu would see the importance of the task and realize the confidence Daniel had in him.
"Yes, I can do that, Danyel," he answered after thinking it over for a few moments. "I will make sure they are safe."
"Take this," Daniel said, handing him the staff weapon.
Ankhu took it from Daniel, holding it almost reverently. He looked up at Daniel. "Thank you, Danyel. I will not let you down."
"I know you won't. It's time to go—let's get everyone ready."
Ankhu went off to organize their group and Daniel turned back to Jack.
"Do you think it was wise to give the kid a staff weapon?" Jack asked.
"He'll be fine. Besides, he's probably better with it than I would be."
"You'll need this, then," Jack said, releasing his Beretta and handing it to Daniel.
"Thanks. At least I'm used to this."
The group was now ready to move out. Daniel approached Dan'e and Makare, bending to one knee so he could look directly at Dan'e.
"I have to go with Jack to help free some of the slaves. Ankhu and the other men are going to take you out of the city to the chappa'ai."
"I don't want to leave without you, Danyel," she said, a slight tremor in her voice.
"I know, but I want you to be safe. I will meet you at the chappa'ai and we will go through to my world together."
She wrapped her arms around his neck and whispered to him. "I love you, Danyel. Be careful and don't forget your promise."
"I love you, too. And I won't forget," he whispered back. "You and I will be together no matter what happens."
She released her hold on him and stepped back to take Makare's hand. Makare stepped forward and gave Daniel a quick hug.
"Be careful, Danyel."
"I will. Take care of yourself and Dan'e."
Daniel watched Makare and Dan'e join the others and then leave the building. Jack moved to his side and placed his hand on Daniel's shoulder.
"I'm sure they'll be fine."
"I hope so." He didn't want to let himself think about any other outcome.
"We'd better go. You know the way?"
"Yeah—this way," Daniel replied, heading towards another door.
A short time later they arrived at the two-story building where Carter and Teal'c and their guide, Sennu, were hiding. Teal'c was waiting for them as they entered the back of the building.
"It is good to see you well, Daniel Jackson," he said, extending his arm for Daniel to grasp.
"You, too, Teal'c," he replied, returning the gesture.
"Major Carter is waiting upstairs—this way."
They followed Teal'c upstairs to the roof. Upon seeing them, Sam stepped away from the edge of the building where she had been crouching and came to greet them.
"Daniel," was all she said, keeping her voice low and pulling him into a crushing hug.
Daniel put his arms around her, hugging her just as tightly. "Sam—it's so good to see you again."
"We thought..." she began, trying to control the emotion in her voice, "we thought we'd lost you again."
"No chance, Sam. It was just a temporary... misplacement. I'm not planning on going anywhere but home."
"I hate to break up the reunion, kids," Jack said, interrupting, "but we've got some business to take care of before we can go home."
Daniel and Sam pulled apart.
"Sorry, sir." Noticing his arm, she said, "You're injured, sir."
"Hit from a staff weapon, but it's not too bad. Just give me your report."
"Well, sir, there are eight Jaffa in front of the armory. They had about ten slaves captured when we got here. They threatened to kill them if more of the slaves didn't surrender and turn over their weapons. Since then, more slaves have arrived and turned themselves in. There are about twenty now."
They crept to the edge and peered through an opening in the decorative façade to the group assembled below. The Jaffa had all of the slaves on their knees with their hands tied behind their backs. Jack contemplated the situation and then motioned them to move back again.
"Any ideas?" he whispered.
"Well, sir, there are five of us, that is, if you're up to using your weapon, sir..."
"I can handle it," Jack interrupted.
"And eight of them," she continued. "We have surprise on our side, so we might be able to take them all out before they could hurt any of the slaves."
"I do not believe that would be possible, Major Carter. The Jaffa have spread out and interspersed themselves among the slaves. I believe there would be casualties if we attempted this plan."
"You're probably right, Teal'c," she conceded.
"Okay, anybody got any other ideas?" Jack asked.
"Jack, what if we could create a diversion that would take the Jaffa away from the slaves?"
"What did you have in mind?" Jack asked.
"I know some of those Jaffa, and they know who I am. Let me go down and tell them I've been sent to call them back to the palace to help the Jaffa fighting there. You can be waiting out of sight and ambush them."
"No," Jack said. Why was he not surprised this plan involved Daniel putting himself at risk?
"Why not?" Daniel countered.
"Number one, you'd be putting yourself in danger. And Number two, you don't know if they would believe you or not. That could get you captured, or worse, and leave the four of us to try and get you back. Besides, do you really think they're going to leave the slaves unsupervised?"
"They might, or they might leave one Jaffa behind to keep an eye on them."
"And who's going to handle him?"
Daniel looked at him, the unspoken answer obvious in his eyes.
"Oh, no! You're unarmed—you haven't even got anywhere to hide a weapon in that outfit!"
"I might be able to hide a knife in the waist at the back," Daniel suggested.
Jack just glared at him.
"Sir," Sam spoke up. "Why don't you stay and help Daniel? They probably will leave one or two Jaffa behind to watch the slaves. The three of us can handle the rest."
Jack contemplated her suggestion. He didn't want the three of them to have to face six, possibly seven, on their own, even though he knew they'd faced worse odds in the past. But if he went with them, that would leave Daniel to fend for himself. Like that's going to happen, he thought, decision made.
"I'll stay here and back up Daniel. You three find a good place for an ambush. Daniel, you probably know the best place."
"Sure, Jack." Daniel conferred with Sennu, then described to Teal'c and Sam where he thought they should go.
"Meet back here when you're done," Jack instructed as they prepared to leave.
"Yes, sir. Good luck."
After they had left, Jack moved to a shady spot next to the wall and slid down to sit. He grimaced as he shifted his injured arm.
"Jack, at least take some Tylenol. Have you got any in your pack?"
Jack decided he could use some and didn't argue. "Yeah, dig it out for me, will ya?"
Daniel reached for the pocket on Jack's pack where he kept his med kit. Digging out two tablets, he handed them to Jack along with his canteen.
"Here, you should drink some, too, Daniel," he said, handing him the canteen.
Daniel took it, not drinking quite enough to slake his thirst, knowing Jack would probably need more. He was worried about letting Jack's wound go untreated for so long.
"We need to decide how this is going to go down," Jack said, checking his watch. "We've got ten minutes for them to get into position before we make our move."
Jack looked down from the roof at the scene below. He bent his head down as a hot wind blew dust in his face. The sun was inching toward midday, the temperature inching up with it. His right arm throbbed as he took it from the sling and grabbed hold of his P-90. His head pounded in time with the throbbing in his arm. He glanced down again and his vision wavered, blurring the figures below. He blinked his eyes as though that would clear it up. It didn't. He wiped the sweat from his face and prepared himself for Daniel's entrance.
Shouting caused him to jerk his head up. He winced at the pain the sudden movement caused his arm. Had he dozed off? He looked down to see Daniel standing, head bowed, in front of a Jaffa, explaining why they were being called away. The Jaffa paused, evidently considering Daniel's words and whether he wanted to obey them. The Jaffa abruptly turned and shouted orders to his men. Daniel was doing a good job of pretending to be out of breath from running from the palace. The Jaffa left him and headed in the direction of the ambush, leaving two Jaffa to guard the prisoners. So far, so good. The next step was up to him—get a clear shot at one of the Jaffa. Daniel would tell the slaves to flatten themselves as much as possible so Jack could then get a shot at the second one. He was glad they hadn't left three.
He moved to place his fingers on the trigger and discovered they were slow to respond. His head and arm were pounding again as he took aim on one of the Jaffa who had moved to an open spot. He told his fingers to pull the trigger and, with a delayed reaction, they did. The Jaffa fell backwards, hitting the ground and lying still. The scared slaves began to speak frantically until one voice rose above theirs—Daniel shouting instructions. The natives flattened themselves to the ground while the second Jaffa whirled, aiming his staff weapon at Daniel. Jack shifted his aim to the second Jaffa, his vision blurring once again. Not now! His vision cleared enough for him to see that the Jaffa had moved and was now locked in a tug-of-war with Daniel for the staff weapon.
Daniel stood looking at the Jaffa who was aiming a staff weapon at him. Any time now, Jack. Why wasn't Jack taking the shot? The Jaffa was furious. "What have you done?" he snarled, priming the weapon.
Daniel did the only thing he could think of, rushing towards the Jaffa and grabbing the staff. The surprised Jaffa hesitated only a second—Now Jack!—before pushing the weapon back against Daniel's chest. Daniel was pushed backwards, losing his footing before finding himself flat on his back. The Jaffa continued to push the staff towards him until it was lying across his throat. Daniel had his own hands on the staff, straining to keep from being choked. He was losing.
Suddenly, the resistance stopped and he felt a heavy weight land on him. He took hold of the body and pushed it off of him, then sat up, chest heaving as he pulled air back into his lungs. Glancing at the Jaffa, he could see blood seeping from a bullet wound in his head. He looked up to the roof but couldn't see Jack. Something was wrong. He moved to the nearest slave and unhooked the clip keeping his hands secured behind him. He told him to release the others, arm themselves from the armory, and wait for him to come back.
He sprinted towards the building where Jack was and raced up the stairs to the roof. Jack, eyes closed, was slumped against the outer wall. Daniel quickly moved to his side and knelt.
"Jack?"
"Daniel?"
"Yeah, it's me."
"Not dead?" he asked, squinting up at him.
"No. You did it, Jack, you shot him."
"Good."
"Yeah, I thought so."
"Smartass. Help me up."
"Why don't you take it easy for a minute. Here, have some water," Daniel said, uncapping the canteen and holding it while Jack drank.
"Better?"
"Yeah, thanks."
"We need to get you back to the SGC and let Janet look at that arm."
Jack sighed. "Yeah."
The fact that Jack didn't argue or make a sarcastic remark told Daniel just how much he was hurting. Daniel helped him replace his arm in the sling just as Sam's voice came over his radio. "We're heading up the stairs to your location, sir."
"Understood."
Seconds later, Sam, Teal'c, and Sennu came out onto the roof. Sam quickly joined Daniel next to Jack.
"Sir, are you all right?"
"Just peachy. How did it go?"
"Fine, sir. We had no problems taking out the Jaffa. They were completely taken by surprise."
"Good. Time for us to get out of here."
Jack's radio came to life again. "Colonel O'Neill, this is Kendrick."
"Go ahead, Major."
"Sir, the Jaffa just reopened the main gates. They left two sentries at the top of the wall and the rest are leaving the city. I think they're heading for the stargate."
Crap. "Understood. Are you able to leave your position?"
"No, sir. With the Jaffa on the top of the wall we're pinned down."
"Okay , stay put. We're coming your way."
"Yes, sir."
"Jack, we've got to warn..." Daniel began.
"Ah!" Jack interrupted, holding up a finger to stop him. "I'm already ahead of you—hang on." Keying his radio, he said, "Williams?"
"Here, sir."
"You've got Jaffa headed your way from the city. Are the natives gathered at the gate?"
"Yes, sir. Quite a few of them are. And sir, SG-3 and SG-5 just came through the gate a few minutes ago."
"Good. We need to start sending the natives through to the SGC. Send someone back to explain the situation to Hammond. The rest of you need to prepare to engage the Jaffa."
"Sir, we told these people to wait for Doctor Jackson. We might have a problem explaining to them that they can go on through."
"Jack, tell him to ask for a man named Cimon. Then let me talk to him and I think we can get them moving."
Jack relayed the message and soon Daniel was speaking with Cimon. Jack recognized two words in the conversation: Makare and Dan'e. Daniel finished and handed the radio back to Jack.
"Cimon will get the people moving through the gate. Jack, he says he hasn't seen Makare and Dan'e. Something must have happened. What if they run into those Jaffa? We've got to find them," he said, fear evident in his voice.
"Daniel, we're going to help Kendrick. We're not splitting up again." Seeing Daniel was about to protest, Jack raised a hand. "No argument. We'll have SG-3 and SG-5 look for them. He knew Daniel was worried but there was no way he was going to scatter his people again.
Sam looked at Daniel sympathetically, seeing the anguish in his eyes. She wondered who these people were that were evidently very important to him. There was so much she wanted to ask Daniel about what had happened to him while he had been separated from them. She hadn't missed the fading lines criss-crossing his back, or the brand on his chest. But that conversation could wait until they had him safely back at the SGC.
"Williams, report."
"SG-3 and 2 members of SG-5 went to try and head off the Jaffa. The natives are willing to go through the gate; we're dialing it up now."
"Understood. Make sure those people get through the gate safely."
"Yes, sir."
Jack tapped his radio again, hailing SG-3's leader. "Colonel Reynolds?"
"Here, sir," he replied, breath sounding as though he were running.
"Any sign of the Jaffa?"
"Not yet, sir."
"A group of women and children are headed your way. Seen them yet?"
"No, sir, but we'll keep an eye out."
"Keep me posted."
"Yes, sir."
Jack took another drink from the canteen, then let Sam and Daniel help him stand. Daniel pulled Jack's good arm around his shoulder to support him. Daniel wanted nothing more than to go look for Makare and Dan'e. He berated himself for not going with them. He shouldn't have assumed they'd be safe. Shouldn't have expected a couple of untrained slaves and a boy to protect them. But Jack was having none of it, so Daniel walked alongside him as they headed for the main gates, praying Makare and Dan'e wouldn't pay for his mistake. Teal'c took point, followed by Sam, then Jack with Daniel helping him, and the freed slaves following them.
As they approached the area of the city gates, they heard sounds of battle. Jack tried his radio. "Kendrick?"
"Here, sir."
"What's goin' on?"
"A group of Jaffa and a few slaves just showed up and started firing on the Jaffa on the wall."
"Jack, it must be Val'nor," Daniel said urgently.
"Kendrick—do not, I repeat, do not fire on them. I think they're on our side. Stay put—we'll be there in a couple of minutes."
"Yes, sir."
"You'd better be right, Daniel. Let's go."
Daniel didn't reply, hoping he wasn't making another mistake. But he was sure this had to be Val'nor.
They stopped at the side of a building just off the plaza. Staff weapons could be heard firing. Jack moved his arm from around Daniel's shoulder and gripped the P-90 hanging around his neck.
"Daniel, tell these people to stay back out of sight," he said, indicating the slaves. "I don't want them fighting if they don't have to."
"All right," Daniel agreed, turning and giving the instructions to the group behind them. Just as he came back to Jack's side, a voice rang out in the plaza, staff weapons falling silent as it did. Teal'c translated. "He says he iis Val'nor and that they have defeated Thoth. He is asking them to lay down their weapons."
Daniel felt a measure of relief that Thoth had been defeated, and even more relief knowing that Val'nor had survived. Another voice, this one from the top of the wall, answered Val'nor.
"They do not believe him," Teal'c continued.
"Jack, maybe it would help if Teal'c spoke and told them the Tau'ri had joined the fight."
"Maybe. Go ahead and try it, Teal'c."
Teal'c bowed his head in agreement and then positioned himself so his voice would carry across the plaza.
"I am Teal'c. I have come through the gate with warriors of the Tau'ri. The slaves have been freed and Thoth defeated. You are outnumbered. Surrender yourselves."
Silence reigned in the plaza until finally a voice from the top of the wall responded.
"He says they will surrender," Teal'c informed them.
They watched from the corner of the building as the Jaffa descended the stairs, crossing to stand in front of the gates. Val'nor and several Jaffa emerged from the shadows of another building, followed by a small group of slaves.
"That's Val'nor," Daniel said, watching as Val'nor approached the surrendering Jaffa and took the weapons they were offering.
Jack motioned for their group to move forward. As soon as the two groups of slaves saw each other, they began running towards each other, shouting greetings and calling the names of friends. They saw two men emerge from behind a pillar and head towards them; Kendrick and Rice, Daniel decided when he could see them more clearly.
Val'nor left his men to take charge of the prisoners and headed towards SG-1. His brows were furrowed as he looked them over. Until his eyes came to rest on Daniel. A smile curved his lips upward as he greeted him. "Daniel, it is good to see you are safe," he said, clasping arms with his co-conspirator.
"Val'nor—it's good to see you as well and to hear the news that you defeated Thoth." Daniel was glad that, even though he looked a little banged up, he appeared to have no serious injuries.
"Are these the friends you spoke of?" Val'nor asked.
"Yes, Colonel Jack O'Neill, Major Samantha Carter, and Teal'c."
Val'nor bowed to each, but stepped up to Teal'c, looking him directly in the eye. "Teal'c of Chulak, who dared to defy the false god Apophis and continues to fight for all Jaffa. You are an inspiration to those of us who wish to be free of the shackles of the Goa'uld. It is an honor to meet you," he said, bowing.
"It is an honor to meet another who fights for freedom for all people," Teal'c answered, bowing in return. Daniel translated for Jack and Sam.
"Sorry to interrupt your mutual admiration society, but we've got Jaffa headed towards the gate and I think our people there would appreciate some back-up."
Val'nor turned to face Jack, his gaze seeming to size him up as he listened to Daniel's translation. "I agree. Let us go to the chappa'ai."
He turned back to his men and gave them their orders. Jack did the same.
"Let's move out," he said, keeping his arm out of its sling as he continued to grip his P-90.
"Are you sure you're up to this, Jack?" Daniel asked, hovering at his elbow in case he needed support.
"I'll be fine," he replied, the pain etched in his face saying otherwise. Daniel knew he would keep pushing himself until he was sure everyone was safe. "We're wasting time—let's go."
Daniel glanced at Sam who just gave him a small shrug. As they headed through the gate, however, Teal'c silently appeared at Jack's other elbow, placing himself in a position to assist.
As they passed through the city gates, Colonel Reynolds' urgent voice came over the radio.
"Colonel O'Neill, this is Reynolds." Weapons fire could be heard in the background.
"Go ahead, Colonel."
"Sir, the Jaffa are attacking a group of slaves who appear to be fleeing the city for the stargate. We're attempting to lend assistance."
"Roger that. We're heading to your position. We've got some friendly Jaffa and a group of rebels with us."
"Understood, sir."
Daniel began to dart forward, but Jack grabbed his arm, hissing at the pain it caused his own arm, but refusing to relinquish his hold.
"Jack! Let me go. You know he's got to be talking about Dane's group."
"You don't know that for sure. Regardless, you can't go running off on your own. We're all going together." He let go of Daniel's arm and Daniel fell in beside him again as they picked up their pace down the path to the stargate.
Soon they could see as well as hear the skirmish taking place in the dunes to the right of the road. Jack radioed Colonel Reynolds, telling them they were moving in to attack the Jaffa from the rear. Crouching low, the group moved behind a line of dunes, coming to a halt directly behind the Jaffa. On Jack's order they raised themselves up and began firing. The surprised Jaffa became confused, not sure where to focus their fire. After several fell to the Tau'ri's bullets, Val'nor addressed those remaining.
"Hear me, brothers! Thoth is dead. He was a false god and not worthy of your allegiance. I offer you freedom—freedom to chose your own destiny. Join those of us who wish to see all Jaffa free."
The firing had stopped on both sides, dust and smoke lingering in the air. The silence stretched agonizingly long to Jack. Sweat was running into his eyes and his arm was beginning to shake with the effort of holding his P-90. He glanced to his right at Daniel, who was squinting at the scene in front of him. Jack knew he was searching beyond the Jaffa for the freed slaves. Jack hadn't been able to see if it was the group Dan'e was a part of. For Daniel's sake, he prayed she was already at the gate or through it.
His attention was drawn back to the Jaffa as one spoke out loud and then laid down his staff weapon. One by one, the other Jaffa followed suit. The minute Val'nor and his men stepped into the open and towards the surrendering Jaffa, Daniel jumped up and headed towards the far dune where the former slaves could be seen emerging from hiding.
"Daniel!" Jack shouted as he tried to grab him and missed. He began to push himself away from the dune, intending to follow Daniel, when Carter put a hand on his shoulder.
"Stay. I'll go after him, sir."
"Go. See if you can keep him out of trouble."
"Yes, sir," she said, heading after her wayward teammate.
Teal'c appeared at Jack's side. "Do you require assistance, O'Neill?"
"No. All right, yeah," he conceded, allowing Teal'c to help him up and then sling his arm across his shoulder again as they followed their teammates.
Daniel raced across the sand towards the group of natives, his fear for Dan'e fueling his efforts. He couldn't see clearly enough to recognize them yet. As he neared the group, he heard his name being called by several different people. Fear gripped his heart again as he realized it was Dan'e's group. Finally, he spotted one of the faces he was looking for.
"Makare!"
"Danyel!" she replied, running to him and throwing her arms around him.
He held her close as he asked, "Are you all right?"
"Yes," she said, though her body trembled.
"Where's Dan'e?" he asked, fear tightening its grip as he waited for her reply.
"We were separated after the Jaffa attacked. I fell and when I got up I could no longer see her."
"Help me look for her," Daniel said, pulling out of the hug but firmly grasping her hand in his.
They began calling her name as they made their way past other women who were consoling some of the children. Suddenly, he stopped, listening for the sound he'd heard to repeat.
"Danyel," came the voice he longed to hear, though from some distance away. He and Makare began running to the edge of a nearby dune. As they turned the corner he saw her kneeling on the ground next to Ankhu. Dan'e appeared unhurt, but Ankhu was obviously injured, though he still gripped the staff weapon, aiming it in their direction.
"Ankhu, it's okay. It's me, Danyel," he said, approaching cautiously. It was then he saw the dead Jaffa lying a short distance away, a staff blast to his chest. He saw recognition appear in Ankhu's eyes and the staff weapon was lowered. Immediately, Dan'e rose and ran to Daniel. He scooped her up into his arms and held her tightly.
"Are you hurt?" he asked.
"No, I'm fine. Ankhu saved me when the Jaffa came after us."
"Yes, he did," Daniel replied. He set Dan'e down and went to check on Ankhu while Makare took Dan'e into her own arms.
"Danyel, I did as you asked—I kept the Jaffa from hurting Dan'e."
"You did well, Ankhu. Thank you for protecting her. Now, let me take care of you—I need to check your wound."
Ankhu acquiesced and let Daniel look over the graze on his side caused by the staff weapon.
"It doesn't look too bad. Doctor Frasier should be able to take care of it," Daniel said, realizing Ankhu wouldn't know who he was talking about.
Sam had come upon them just as Daniel put Dan'e down to check on Ankhu. She didn't fail to notice the dead Jaffa, realizing the young man Daniel was tending to must have shot him while protecting the others. These must be the people he's been worrying about, she thought, even more eager to get the whole story from Daniel.
"Danyel, you were right," Ankhu said.
"About what?"
"About war not being glorious," he said, looking towards the dead Jaffa. "I was scared."
"I know. Everyone is when they're in the situation you were in. That's what courage is—being afraid and doing it anyway."
Ankhu looked up at him, smiling at the praise he'd been given.
Jack and Teal'c had arrived while Daniel was talking to Ankhu. They took in the scene, knowing immediately what had taken place. Sam moved to stand next to them.
"I guess these are the people Daniel was looking for?" she asked.
Daniel moved to Makare, taking Dan'e back into his arms.
"Yes, they are," Jack said. "Major Samantha Carter, Teal'c, I'd like you to meet Makare," he continued, indicating the young woman, "and Dan'e," he said, placing a hand on the child's head. Then, looking at Sam and Teal'c, he added, "Daniel's daughter."
"Wha..." she began, unable to vocalize the many questions popping into her head.
Wow, Carter speechless. Gotta mark that on my calendar. Teal'c simply raised an eyebrow, managing to add,
"Indeed."
Sam glanced back at Jack, who shrugged. "Don't look at me. I'm dyin' to hear that story myself. Been a little too busy to get the details."
Daniel beamed at them. Jack couldn't remember the last time he'd seen a smile that big on Daniel. He hoped it was something he'd be seeing more often.
"Dan'e, this is Sam," Daniel said. "Sam, this is my daughter, Dan'e."
"Pleased to meet you, Dan'e."
"You are Sam?" Dan'e asked in English. Sam nodded her head yes. "Danyel says you are smart." Sam blushed a little at the compliment.
"And this is Teal'c," Daniel continued.
"Teal'c," Dan'e repeated. "Danyel says you are brave."
"Thank you, Dan'e," Teal'c replied.
"And you already met Jack."
"Yes, Jack," she said smiling. "Danyel says you are..." she hesitated, brows furrowed as she searched for the right word.
Jack decided to help. "Strong? Intelligent? Handsome?" he offered.
"Funny!" she said, excited to have remembered the word.
"Daniel?"
"Jack?"
"What have you been telling her?"
"Oh, just, you know, stories. Don't you think we'd better be going?" he asked in an effort to change the subject.
"Yes, we should. But don't think this conversation is over!"
Sam laughed out loud while a broad smile graced Teal'c's face.
Teal'c moved to assist Jack while Daniel helped Ankhu, and they soon rejoined their group.
Jack radioed Williams and let him know the situation. All of them then returned to the road and made their way towards the stargate.
As they neared the gate, Daniel could see that there was still a group of about twenty to thirty rebels waiting to leave. Hopefully the rest got through to the SGC. He heard his name called and realized one of them was Cimon. His friend came running up to him, engulfing him in a hug.
"It is good to see you, Danyel."
"You, too, Cimon. Did everyone else get through the chappa'ai?" Daniel asked.
"All those who wished to go, yes. There are some still in the city who wish to remain on this planet. And our group remained in case you needed our help."
Before Daniel could respond, the chevrons began to light up. Realizing it could be the returning Jaffa, Jack, with Daniel translating, told the rebels to take cover in the dunes behind the ring while the rest of them took up positions around the gate and waited for whoever was coming through.
The great blue cloud poured out of the gate and then settled. The first one through was Kresh'nar, followed by more Jaffa escorting a group of chained and frightened slaves. Val'nor stood directly in front of the group, staff weapon trained on his former superior.
"Kresh'nar, you are surrounded. Surrender and you will not be harmed."
Kresh'nar took in the Jaffa and the SG teams surrounding him, all weapons trained on his men. He knew he was outnumbered.
"What is the meaning of this, Val'nor?" he said, sounding more curious than angry.
"We have overthrown Thoth—he is dead. We have taken control of the city and intend to live as free Jaffa. Again I say, lay down your weapons and you will not be harmed."
Kresh'nar continued to look over the group surrounding him. "You have allied yourself with the Tau'ri."
Daniel glanced at Jack, seeing him tense at the words. Kresh'nar began to descend the steps, every weapon priming as he did so. He moved to stand in front of Teal'c.
"You are Teal'c."
"I am."
"I have heard that you turned against Apophis and now fight against the Goa'uld."
"I do."
Kresh'nar moved back to face Val'nor. "You have accomplished what I have only dreamed of. I would join your efforts to free all Jaffa from their enslavement to the false gods."
He then bent down on one knee, bowed his head, and offered up his staff to Val'nor. Val'nor stepped forward and took the staff. A collective shout of approval went up from the crowd of Jaffa and from the rebels who were coming out from behind the dunes to join them. The rest of Kresh'nar's men relinquished their weapons and began releasing their captives.
"Well, how about that," Jack said, lowering his weapon.
Teal'c moved to join Val'nor and Kresh'nar while Daniel ascended the steps of the gate platform and began conversing with the captives, searching for a common language.
A short time later, SG-1 stood together facing the stargate. The groups of captives had already been sent back to the planet they came from. Cimon and those from his world had also gone home. The rest of the former slaves were standing behind them, ready to leave their temporary home for another one. Kresh'nar had offered to review their records and find the gate addresses for the different groups of slaves. In the meantime, they would go to Earth. Val'nor had vowed to work with the former slaves who stayed behind to build a government. Teal'c had promised to get them in contact with the free Jaffa.
Jack turned to Daniel. "Dial it up, Daniel," he said with a smile, happy to be able to say those words again. Daniel noticed that Jack looked tired and pale. He knew Jack had been running on adrenaline and wondered how long it would be before it ran out. Daniel punched in the coordinates for Earth. When the blue pool settled, SG teams and former slaves began moving through the gate.
Daniel paused at the top of the gate, Dan'e and Makare standing with him. His gaze traveled over the dunes, down the road, and settled on the city. Sam stopped next to him and laid a hand on his shoulder.
"Daniel, are you okay?"
He glanced at her with a half-smile and then returned his gaze to the vista before him. "I'm fine. Just thinking."
"About?"
"Serendipity."
"Serendipity?"
"Yeah. I lost my place in the archaeological community, but in doing so I found the stargate program. I went to Abydos looking to solve a mystery and instead found Shar'e. I died, but discovered ascension. Through ascension I discovered that I belonged back here with all of you. I was kidnapped and brought here to be a slave and found Dan'e."
Sam thought she understood what he was thinking. "More than coincidence?"
"I don't know," he said, shaking his head. "But one thing I've learned—coincidence or fate—is not to question how you got it, but to enjoy what you've been given."
He looked down at Dan'e. "Are you ready to go?"
She took hold of his hand. "Yes, I'm ready."
"Do you want me to carry you?"
"No. I want to walk through the chappa'ai to your world."
"All right, let's go," he said.
Jack and Teal'c came up beside them and, after the last of the former slaves went through, their group stepped into the wormhole.
The iris closed behind SG-1. Jack took two steps before his knees buckled. Sam and Teal'c both grabbed for him, preventing him from taking a nosedive. Daniel had been right. Once Jack had gotten his team home safely, the adrenaline he'd been running on evaporated. Seeing this, Janet left Ankhu, who was lying on a gurney, and hurried over to Jack, who was now sitting on the ramp.
"Colonel, let me take a look at that arm."
"Staff weapon, Janet," Sam informed her.
"Let's get Colonel O'Neill on a gurney," she said to one of the medics.
"I can walk," he protested.
"Like you were just now?" she said. "I don't think so."
Jack didn't argue any more. He really did feel like crap.
General Hammond approached as Jack was being helped on to a gurney. "It's good to have you back, Doctor Jackson," he said, taking in Daniel's attire without comment.
"It's good to be back, General."
Noticing the young woman and child staying close to Daniel's side, he asked, "Who do you have with you?"
"General, this is Makare. She helped me while I was on Thoth's world. And this is Dan'e, my daughter."
"Excuse me?"
"Long story, sir. One we're all waiting to hear," Jack's raised voice trailed off as they wheeled him out of the gateroom.
"One that will have to wait a little longer to be told," Hammond said, looking back at Daniel again. "We'll put off the debriefing until everyone's up to it. All of you report to the infirmary and get checked out. Then I'm sure you'd all appreciate a chance to clean up and get something to eat. Not to mention a good night's sleep."
"Thank you, sir," Daniel replied.
The group made their way to the infirmary, Dan'e holding Daniel's hand tightly and Makare gripping his arm as they took in their surroundings. Upon entering the infirmary they were each directed to a bed. Daniel took one next to Jack, and Dan'e climbed up and sat with him. Makare took the bed on the other side of Daniel. Janet was busy checking Jack over. His BDU shirt and t-shirt had already been removed and a nurse was cleaning around the wound. Several other nurses came in and began checking the rest of them. Janet finished with Jack and moved to Daniel's bed.
"Who've you got here, Daniel?" she asked.
"This is my daughter, Dan'e."
"Really?" she said looking at the young girl. "Nice to meet you, Dan'e. I'm Janet."
Daniel said something to her in another language, then Dan'e looked at Janet and said, "Janet makes well."
"I try." Then to Daniel, "I assume I'll get the whole story later?"
"Sure, Janet."
"So, do you have any injuries I need to know about Daniel?"
"No, I'm fine."
"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Jack interrupted. "I saw that Mal'rac guy use something on you. You were in so much pain you couldn't move."
Daniel glared at him and growled a warning, "Jack."
"Daniel?" Janet asked, waiting for an explanation.
Daniel was quiet for a few moments, deciding what to tell her. Dan'e had understood enough to know they were talking about what Mal'rac had done to Daniel. She reached over and touched the brand.
"Mark of Thoth hurt Danyel."
"Out of the mouths of babes," Jack said smiling.
"Daniel? Want to explain?" Janet asked again, impatience creeping into her voice.
"Yeah, care to explain?" Jack added, enjoying Daniel's discomfort.
Daniel sighed. He was outnumbered and knew he would have to tell them sooner or later. He moved his finger to touch the brand on his chest.
"It's more than a brand. Thoth implanted some sort of chip. It can be used to track someone."
"Really?" Sam asked, her curiosity piqued.
"And?" Janet and Jack said simultaneously.
"And it can be used to inflict pain," Daniel finished, keeping his eyes lowered.
"I knew it!" Jack said. "That bastard!"
Giving Jack a look that said "stay out of this", Janet continued to question Daniel.
"This was used on you recently?"
"Janet, I'm okay. The pain never lasts." He closed his eyes, realizing the mistake he'd just made.
"Sooo, it's been used multiple times?" Janet asked, moving to take a closer look at the brand.
"Really, I'm fine," he said again, his eyes pleading as they met hers.
"Well, your stats do appear normal." Her only other concern had been the whip marks on his back, but she had decided that they had healed well. "I suppose there's no reason to keep you."
"Thank you, Janet."
"I don't believe this," Jack muttered. How did Daniel always manage to talk himself out of an infirmary stay?
She continued to examine the brand. "It shouldn't be a problem to remove this, Daniel."
"Janet, could you hold off on that for a while?" Jack asked.
"Why, Colonel?" Janet asked, surprised.
"Jack?" Daniel said, also confused.
"Well, if I can get my hands on whatever controls it, I might be able to find a use for it."
Daniel rolled his eyes disgustedly. "Ha, ha."
Janet hid a smile as she moved to finish her exams.
After their exams were finished, everyone but Jack, who was confined to the infirmary, had gone to shower and eat. The briefing had been scheduled for late the next afternoon, giving everyone a chance to rest and allowing Jack to recuperate some so he could attend. Makare had bunked with Sam and Dan'e was allowed to sleep on a cot in Daniel's quarters.
Five o'clock the next afternoon found SG-1 wrapping up a very long briefing with General Hammond. Daniel had described his experiences over the past few weeks with a minimal number of outbursts from Jack. He had cursed loudly when Daniel had told them about being whipped by Mal'rac, and again when he described the branding and subsequent use of the chip by Thoth. The room had been quiet as he described learning of Shar'e's pregnancy and the birth and banishment of his daughter. Sam had laid her hand over his at this point, offering her silent support. Teal'c's only comment came when Daniel described killing Mal'rac. "If he were not already dead, I would return and kill him myself." Daniel finished his report and sat looking at his folded hands.
General Hammond broke the silence. "I am truly sorry you had to go through that, son."
"Thank you, sir."
"We will be sending the former slaves to their home worlds as soon as we receive addresses from this Kresh'nar," Hammond continued. "Doctor Jackson, I would like for you to help Major Carter search for appropriate worlds where we can send any of those that we don't find addresses for."
"I'd be glad to help, sir," Daniel replied.
"I am pleased that you were at least united with your daughter. Have you thought about what you want to do now that she's here?" Hammond asked.
Jack looked up at Daniel, worried that he would say he wanted to quit the SGC, or at least leave SG-1. After all of his losses, Jack was glad Daniel had found some happiness. He wouldn't blame him if he wanted to devote all of his time to Dan'e. As much as he would hate to lose Daniel from his team, he knew he would support him no matter what he chose to do.
"I haven't decided, General. I need a little time to think it over."
"Take all the time you need. It's a big decision. I'll expect everyone's written reports by the end of the week. Dismissed."
The general left the room and returned to his office. SG-1 was silent until Jack asked, "Are you going to go talk to Makare and Dan'e?"
"Yeah, guess I'd better do that."
"Why don't we find them and all of us can get something to eat?" Sam suggested.
"Sure, that sounds good," Daniel said.
"T, are you coming?" Jack asked.
"I would be pleased to join you," he replied.
The group returned to Daniel's quarters where Makare and Dan'e were waiting. Dan'e jumped up and ran to Daniel.
"Danyel, can we go outside and see your world now?"
Daniel translated her request. "We were going to get something to eat."
"Oh," she said, sounding disappointed.
"Daniel, why don't we take some food up to the top of the mountain and have a picnic?" Sam said.
"Good idea, Carter. Whadaya say, Daniel?"
"That sounds nice, Sam."
"Pic — a — nic?" Dan'e said, trying out the new word.
"You'll like it," Daniel told her.
The group proceeded to the commissary where they chose their picnic food. Sam stopped and got a blanket from her quarters and they all headed for the top of the mountain.
They emerged into the early evening sun and followed the path to a clearing overlooking the valley and on down to the city at the edge of the foothills. The surrounding mountains were purple in the light of the fading sun. The golden leaves of the changing aspens shimmered as a cool breeze ruffled them, bringing the scent of pine with it.
"Ohh..." Dan'e said, awestruck as she looked at the vista before her.
"It's beautiful," Makare said, equally impressed.
"There is no sand!" Dan'e exclaimed.
"There are deserts on Earth, Dan'e, but not here," Daniel told her.
Sam spread the blanket and they all sat and enjoyed their meal. When they had finished, Daniel decided it was time to talk to Makare and Dan'e.
"Makare, do you know what you want to do now?" Daniel asked.
"It has been many years since I left my home. I do not believe I would have any family left there. Dan'e is my family now. I would like to stay and care for her, and you, if you will let me," she said.
Teal'c quietly translated her words for Jack and Sam.
"Are you sure this is what you want?" Daniel asked.
"Yes," she replied, wondering if he would accept her offer.
"Then of course I want you to stay," he said, hugging her.
Daniel let go and moved to Dan'e who was listening to their conversation.
"Dan'e, I'm so happy you are here with me."
"I am happy, too, Danyel."
"I think that I should stop going through the chappa'ai so that I can stay here and be with you."
"But I want you to go through the chappa'ai," she said adamantly.
"Why?"
"If you hadn't gone through the chappa'ai you never would have found me and all those people would still be slaves. You must continue to visit other worlds and free others who are slaves to the false gods," she pleaded.
Daniel closed his eyes briefly, hearing the echo of Shar'e's voice telling him he needed to continue to go through the chappa'ai.
He opened his eyes. "It would mean I would have to leave you sometimes."
"Makare will look after me. Besides, I know you will keep your promise. No matter what happens, we will be together."
Daniel admitted to himself that he would miss going through the gate. He would give it up, though, if he had to, to be with Dan'e. But her adamant words about freeing others were true. He knew he needed to continue to go through the gate. Her confidence in his promise was her blessing to do so.
Daniel smiled at her. "All right, you win," he said, bending down to hug her.
He straightened and she bounded off to join Sam who was watching a ground squirrel scampering over the rocks. Jack came to stand at Daniel's side.
"Looks like you have a family now, Daniel."
Daniel glanced to Makare and Teal'c who were now deep in conversation, and then back to Jack.
"I already had a family, Jack. I've just added to it."
Jack patted him on the shoulder and then headed towards Sam and Dan'e, his voice carrying back to Daniel.
"Dan'e, what stories has Daniel been telling about me?"
Daniel smiled as he watched his family—all five of them—feeling a comforting warmth envelope him.
And, for the first time in a very long time, he felt... complete.
The End
