Legacy of the Xel'naga

by Confushi Sushi

This kind of situation had never been considered before. Reuploaded to fix formatting.

6. Reunion

A/N: Yes, it has been forever and a coon's age. Um... I humbly beg your forgiveness? But, if you want to blame someone, blame college. Yeah, because they're meanies and don't understand that I need time to do other stuff. But, here is part 6 for you now, in all it's glory. Feedback is my lifeblood! Oh, and don't forget to thank the ever diligent Queen, because words just sorta... disappeared. Enjoy.

Xel'naga

He seethed. His rage had not dissipated since that disgraceful moment days ago. If anything it had grown hotter. They had dared to defy him. They had gone against him. They had escaped him, and that was what made the entire situation intolerable.

He was a god, and no one defied a god without retribution.

Yet these ones had. Simple humans and a Tok'ra. It was a disgrace beyond disgrace. It was unacceptable. He was Terak. Once his empire had been grand. Now, he couldn't keep four insignificant creatures in check.

The only other soul on the pal'tek was Terak's First Prime. Not the same one that he had had before this incident. No, he had killed his former First Prime long ago for interrupting his thoughts. It took little provocation for death these days, of which his followers were acutely aware.

Fear radiated from the jaffa as he ran the controls of the Ha'tak.

Ha'tak. It was the only true asset that Terak still had in his possession. It didn't even have a full complement of jaffa, which only made him angrier. The ship was virtually empty, the halls too numerous for the jaffa that he did have to keep a tight guard. An Ash'rak would have an easy time of getting to Terak.

He looked through the view port to the alien's planet below. He had finally found all that he had been after, just not in the condition he had hoped. The sarcophagus still awaited repair. Tralik, on the other hand, could not be returned.

Remembering how he punished the aliens after they proved to be no help to him did nothing to soften the anger. It hadn't been difficult to identify the portion of their brain that was responsible for higher functions. Destroying it in each alien he had found had been satisfying, at the time. But, it had done nothing to bring back Tralik. It was even beyond the sarcophagus' power.

Terak sat. He boiled. He fumed. His rage only grew hotter as with each passing moment he knew vengeance would not be his.

"My Lord," the First Prime called out shakily, "two Ha'taks have entered the system!"

"What?" Who could it be? None of the System Lords had taken any interest in his actions for quite some time. Who would come after him now?

"The vessels approach."

Two Ha'taks. If he fled, they could simply follow him. If he stayed and fought, it was certain death. Why did the universe torment him so?

"Raise the shields and ready the weapons." Terak commanded. He might as well die here.

"My Lord Terak..." the First Prime began to argue, but he was cut off. "We are receiving a communication."

"Show me."

On the view port materialized an image of a Goa'uld Terak had never seen before. The host was average looking at best. It was a creature Terak would not even consider for implantation. Opulent blue robes were the only indication that he was looking at a Goa'uld.

"Always so hasty." The tones rang with amusement. "Stand down, Terak."

This thing dared to command him? "How dare you order me?"

"How quickly you forget." The Goa'uld replied, and then paused for a moment. "No, there is no reason you should know me. Not anymore. I knew I would find you here. How could I ever have doubted?"

Terak only looked on with suspicion as the Goa'uld's words became more senile.

He could only stare in bewilderment as the thing before him seemed to respond to his expression. "It has been far too long, my brother, hasn't it? But, now that we are whole once more, we can seek retribution for the injustices I have been done."

Xel'naga

Daniel studied the notes he had made while talking with Coumat-Shesh, and had completed after they had returned to Earth. He was both excited and reservedly optimistic. The Xel'nagans had a rich history, of which he had learned only a part, and a very complex social structure. While there were many things that could potentially help their case when contacting the planet that Coumat-Shesh had given him the address to, some of what he learned could prove disastrous.

Their complex society was on the verge of a violent change.

The change itself would be beneficial to their cause. But, it most likely was still underway, Coumat-Shesh was certain it would not have been resolved in the time that he had been away. The Xel'nagans were based on traditions, and many of those traditions would have to be destroyed. Many would be opposed to such change. If the metamorphosis was still underway, there would be chaos.

Teal'c entered the room, breaking Daniel from his silent musings.

"Daniel Jackson." Teal'c greeted with his usual bow.

"Hey, Teal'c." he replied.

It was only a moment before Sam and Jack also entered. They needed to make a plan for contacting the planet, so Daniel had to tell them everything he knew about these people, which had only been skimmed over in the briefing. Between the four of them, they would come up with something.

"What do we know?" Jack asked as he took a seat by the desk, the others following.

Not in the mood for any preamble, Daniel noted.

"I guess I should start from the beginning," Daniel returned, shifting the papers in front of him, "Kantari-Tralik's reign made a radical change to the Xel'nagans' social structure. Their people value tradition above all else. Because of this, technological advances are slow in coming, and heavily resisted before becoming part of their culture."

Jack quirked his eyebrow. "Considering the pyramid and everything else we saw, they didn't seem technologically inferior to me."

"I said slow in coming, not that they are in a standstill. It took them a very long time to get to where they are today." Daniel countered.

"You mentioned a radical change, Daniel Jackson." Teal'c pointed out.

"Yes, I did. Under Kantari-Tralik's rule, their scientists enjoyed privilege and freedom to work as they had never known before. He encouraged technological growth and, thus, the building of the pyramid."

Daniel realized Sam must have seen the 'but' in his eyes. "I take it this didn't go over well with everyone."

"Not by a long shot. While the scientists fully backed his leadership, the warriors were the main group opposed to this change. They honored Kantari for his ability to hold the god at bay, so nothing came of it while he remained in power." Daniel answered.

"Lucky him." Jack commented.

"While he remained in power." Sam repeated, quickly mulling over the phrase. "What about after that?"

Daniel shifted in his seat. "Without him to hold everything together, their society became strained. The relations between the Warriors and the Scientists were, maybe still are, at an all-time low. They disagreed radically on how their people should continue."

"How so?" Teal'c asked.

"The Warriors are reactionaries to the extreme. As Coumat-Shesh explained it, they believe that the honor and glory they received from their people would be diminished with the advent of more technology. Of course, they don't use this argument with their own people. Their excuse is that they have already proven themselves as powerful as gods by being able to coexist with one in their body. They say that their culture should be preserved, and that any change would destroy it."

"So, it was the Warriors' pride that prevented them from being an effective force when Terak attacked." Sam concluded, her eyes closing in an expression of exasperation.

Daniel could understand her thinking. The Xel'nagans wariness of change and advances had all but destroyed them. In a terrifying flash, Daniel realized their overconfidence was almost identical to that of the Gould. The fact only served to drive home that the two species had a link.

He had to wonder if Tralik had left behind more than they may have suspected.

"We've heard a lot about these Warriors. What about the Scientist guys?" Jack asked, bringing Daniel out of his musings.

"They're basically the opposite of the Warriors in every way. While the Warriors try to stunt growth, the Scientists try to promote it. They believe that their people MUST change. The other casts have either taken sides or attempted to remain neutral on the matter."

"The situation appears most unstable." Teal'c commented.

That was one way of putting it. Their hope seemed to lay in a drastic change to the Xel'nagan philosophy. It was a big risk, but one that had to be taken.

"You can say that again. Looks like we're setting up to enter into a civil unrest, or even war." Jack supplied.

There was a long moment of silence as they all pondered the implications. Sam was the one to finally speak. "First thing first, how do we go about establishing contact?"

"The Stargate will likely be guarded." Teal'c replied.

"Send through a MALP and hope they're not a shoot-first-ask-later bunch."

Jack's suggestion had validity, but Daniel saw one major flaw. "Communication will be tricky, though. I doubt that there will be a Gould-speaking Xel'nagan near the 'gate to talk with. And I can't speak their language so we can't talk to them through the radio."

Jack's brow creased as he thought over the information. "But you can write it?"

"Yeah." Daniel answered cautiously, not quite seeing where Jack was going with it.

"Attach a note."

It was a simple and effective approach. Daniel shook his head slightly for not considering it himself.

Sam brought up a flaw with the plan though. "What then? How will we know they understand, or even agree?"

"Can we not request in the note the presence of someone who is able to speak Goa'uld?"

"We won't know how long it might take to get such a person to the 'gate." Sam pointed out another problem. "On the other planet their settlement was a long ways from the Stargate."

Daniel's eyes widened as a solution came to him. "We can tell them we'll activate the Stargate at regular intervals. Hopefully their days are about the same as ours."

It was the best they could do really, and everyone nodded in acceptance. Jack finalized the arrangement. "Daniel, you start drafting our little post-it, and I'll let Hammond know what we have in mind."

Xel'naga

Sam sighed, trying to think of some way to occupy herself until they implemented their plan. The Colonel had already come back and said that General Hammond had given them the go ahead. All they were waiting on was SG-5's return from their latest mission, which was imminent, and for Daniel to finish the note.

Walking down the corridor, unsure of where she was going while deep in thought, she came to a stop.

We could go back to Daniel. Alahn suggested, unable to come up with anything else.

The only reason Sam had left in the first place was to prevent herself from being a nuisance. But the minutes ticked by with maddening slowness. Both of them were too focused on what was to come to concentrate on anything else. Sam was reluctant to impose herself on Daniel while he was busy on something so important, but she couldn't think of any other possibilities save walking down the hallways randomly like she already was.

Maybe we can help. Sam mentally justified, turning around in the hall towards Daniel's office.

A few moments later she had crossed the threshold to see Daniel slowly drawing symbols onto a piece of paper. She watched for a short while as he looked at the notes from his journal before finishing the character.

She cleared her throat softly to announce her presence, not wanting to startle him and ruin something.

"How is it?" Sam asked.

"Coming along." The reply was drawn out as he finished the line.

There was a pause before she spoke again. "Anything we can do to help?"

Daniel thought on it for a moment, his brow drawing up slightly. He looked apologetic as he answered. "Not really, I'm afraid."

Sam was lost, not sure what to do. If she couldn't be of some assistance to Daniel then what was she going to do to pass the time? Her nerves were wound so tight that she needed to do something, though.

Now what? Alahn wondered.

If we stay here we'll just end up getting in the way. Sam replied, but couldn't come up with anything else.

Daniel stopped her as she was about to leave. "Actually, I could use an outside opinion with this. Writing the language isn't as simple as translating from one word to another. The whole structure is different from Gould, or English, for that matter."

"How so?" Sam asked.

"Well, each symbol represents an object or idea." Daniel pointed to the first symbol. "If the ideas behind each symbol were identified correctly, this one represents peace, calm, or tranquility. This next one roughly means that the last symbol is a property of the next, which is offworlders."

"Peaceful offworlders." Sam mulled over the phrase in her head. "Us."

"Hopefully." Daniel replied.

"What's the rest of the line?" she asked.

He fingered through the text as he spoke. "Enemies of Goa'uld seek from Xel'nagans aid."

She couldn't identify any faults with the line, though she didn't expect to. Daniel was more than qualified for this work and there was practically no chance of her picking up anything he would miss. Sam let Daniel humor her, glad he realized she just didn't have anywhere else to be. Even if she didn't have much chance of actually being helpful, Sam listened as he shared the rest of the letter, which conveyed that they couldn't speak the Xel'nagan's language, and would open the Stargate regularly until someone they could communicate with arrived.

If the translations were correct as he had already pointed out.

She had a hard time believing that they would be wrong. Daniel had worked on the translations himself, along with the Tok'ra. With his insight into languages in general, and the Tok'ra's knowledge of the galaxy, it just didn't seem possible that they both could mess it up.

Then what will get in our way this time? Alahn wondered.

Hopefully, nothing.

Sam thought about them contacting the planet, the Xel'nagans both willing and able to help. She'd have her body back. Hers. A pang of shock ran through Sam as she couldn't conjure up a clear image of herself. Only a ghostly image of what could be anyone.

Why couldn't she remember what she looked like?

Has it really been so long? she wondered in despair. She couldn't forget herself in one month, could she?

Alahn had no idea how to reply. What could she possibly say in response to Sam's thoughts that would mean anything.

"What's wrong?" Daniel asked.

"I just wonder, if we find what we're looking for here, how things will be from now on. You guys won't look at me the same anymore. Hell, I know I won't be able to."

"That's not necessarily a bad thing, you know. Maybe it's time for all of us to get a new perspective." Daniel replied.

The Colonel picked that moment to poke his head in the doorway. "You done yet?"

"Yes, Jack." Daniel replied as though talking to a petulant child.

"All right, then. The MALP's getting lonely." Colonel O'Neill stared impatiently at his watch to drive his point home.

Daniel chose not to respond, gathering up the carefully prepared note. They made their way to the control room where Teal'c stood waiting, giving them a slight nod as they entered. As Daniel handed the paper to Siler, Sam realized she was beginning to fidget. Alahn also found that her thoughts were in turmoil. Considering they'd probably learn nothing for quite some time, it didn't seem right to be feeling this way just yet.

Unless the aliens decided to destroy the MALP... or no one was there.

Maybe we should just wait and see what happens. Alahn suggested, not really wanting to think about the various possibilities that might await them.

Sam agreed and was startled by a hand making contact with her shoulder. Looking over, she saw Teal'c by her side, giving her an almost imperceptible nod. Thankfully, the others' attention was focused on the MALP below, because Sam realized that she must have been an open book at that moment. Not that she expected her feelings on this moment to be in any way a secret, she would rather not be on display, though. Sam accepted the gesture, allowing the warmth of his hand to spread through her, leaving behind a sense of calm. After taking a slow, steady breath, Sam returned the nod in thanks.

Leave it to Teal'c to say everything that needed to be said without making a sound.

"Is everything ready?" Hammond asked as he entered the Control Room.

"Just waiting for Siler to make the finishing touches, sir." The Colonel responded.

Hammond grabbed the microphone. "Sergeant?"

Siler turned his attention away from the MALP, giving the Control Room a thumbs up. Sam and Alahn couldn't help a brief moment of nervousness from returning. This was it.

"Dial the 'gate." General Hammond ordered and the technician on duty immediately complied.

As the inner circle began turning, Sam felt her previous calm leave as quickly as it had come. Something was going to happen... she just didn't know what. After what felt like an eternity, the seventh chevron locked and the wormhole activated. Sam and Alahn's mutual anticipation doubled. One possible pitfall had been averted, the address was valid.

"MALP away." The technician announced as the probe made its way up the ramp. As the machine passed through the event horizon, Sam couldn't help but to close her eyes, begging that the MALP not be destroyed on the other side.

"Receiving MALP telemetry in 3... 2... 1."

Sam jumped at what she saw as she opened her eyes. Through the monitor she could see that the MALP was surrounded by at least a dozen Xel'nagans, each wielding a weapon identical to the one they had seen some of the aliens with on the other planet.

They were opened and primed to fire.

"Stop the MALP." Daniel immediately cautioned.

The technician looked up to Hammond who nodded his approval.

"Don't move the camera or anything on the MALP. We don't want to do something they might deem a threat." Daniel then amended.

None of the aliens moved for some time, all transfixed on the MALP. Sam was glad Daniel had spoken so quickly, they looked ready to fire the instant anything were to break the imposed stalemate. It did give her time to make some observations, if nothing else. These Xel'nagans were dressed similarly to the one they had found in the pyramid so long ago, their kilts being more muted colors.

"Kalwea." A Xel'nagan standing at the far left corner of the frame said, shifting in what appeared to be irritation.

"Betan nela da kalwea." Came a reply from off-camera.

There was a pause as the first appeared to completely resent the statement of the second.

"Drestak entad usteba." One on the other side commented, nodding its head at the MALP.

"Entras?" The invisible Xel'nagan returned.

"Entras mesada Xel'naga." The previous one answered.

"Shenda nagae bo." The off-camera Xel'nagan again spoke, apparently the leader of the group.

"I think they found the note." Daniel commented as the third Xel'nagan cautiously approached the MALP, the others holding their weapons all the more firmly. After retrieving the paper it quickly backed away. Leaving the view of the camera, which remained still at a cautionary motion from Daniel, Sam had to guess the Xel'nagan took the paper to the leader. Talking could be heard off-camera, but it was just as meaningless as everything else the aliens had said so far.

Thirty-eight minutes after it had opened, the wormhole promptly shut down. Despite their observations, they had learned nothing of what the Xel'nagans planned to do about the note they had just received. The leader had looked over the paper for some time, seeming to act so slowly on purpose. They also didn't know whether the note had actually said what it was supposed to say, there COULD have been a mistake somewhere, or a misunderstanding of some symbol. But, for her own sanity, Sam held onto the one positive thing that had come so far...

The Xel'nagans didn't blow up the MALP and, whether it was understood or not, they had received the note.

Xel'naga

Jack had to mentally laugh at himself. Up in the control room waiting for the aliens to do whatever it was they were going to do, he had been about the quietest he could ever remember being. There hadn't been much for him to say, certainly not anything that would make a difference in any small way. If he had said anything, it would have just been sarcastic remarks about how boring it had been to just stand there.

Instead, he had taken the time to do his own observing. Jack had seen how riveted Carter had been to the whole proceedings. Aside from himself, they all were focused solely on the screen in front of them, save for Teal'c. Jack saw Teal'c glance sideways at Carter from time to time, assuring that he wasn't the only one that noticed how she hung on every action. It was why he had decided to remain silent in the first place, she needed something to happen, and him pointing out the virtual inactivity before them wouldn't have made her feel any better. He wasn't about to be mean about it.

Sitting down in the commissary, Jack found himself staring down the piece of pie in front of him. It wasn't like there was anything else to do at the moment, so he figured he might as well put the time to good use. Pie was a relaxant, allowing the consumer to temporarily forget the world around them. Or, at least, that was how it tended to work.

Stabbing the fork into the flaky crust while staring at the apple filling oozing out of the sides, he realized just how tired HE was of waiting. Jack could only imagine how fed up Carter and Alahn were getting with the whole thing. Of course, he was a man of action, and while they had seen plenty of action recently, none of it had turned out very productive. Even worse than standing still was going around in circles.

Out of the corner of his eye, Jack saw Teal'c enter. The two exchanged an acknowledging nod as the large man made his way to the line. Jack could only watch with amusement as Teal'c made his way about, grabbing pie and other dessert food without discretion. A pang of jealousy ran through Jack as he watched the tray pile high with food. Only Teal'c could cram so much into his mouth and still keep his girlish figure.

After taking his fill, Teal'c made his way to Jack's table and sat down.

"Leave something for anyone else?" Jack joked.

Teal'c deigned not to respond and dug into a bowl of jello. Fork still skewering his own dessert, Jack cut off a portion and started eating, too. For a while there was relative silence, aside from the clanking of plates and silverware.

"Your mind is troubled." Teal'c announced as he watched Jack play around with his food. It was an observation that really didn't need to be made these days. He knew there hadn't been a moment in all of this where any of them didn't have something on their mind.

"No more than usual. You saw Carter in there."

"Indeed." Jack thought he could hear something a little deeper than understanding in the word, which made him wonder what he might have missed.

"If it wasn't obvious before... this whole thing has been drawn on for far too long." Jack commented wryly. He may as well not let Teal'c get in all the unnecessary observations.

"It has," Teal'c agreed, "but we all must come to accept the possibility that the resolution we seek may not come to pass."

Jack knew he was right, but he wasn't ready to accept that possibility. He had made it this far by not really accepting the situation in the first place. Sure, Jack knew that the thing inside of Alahn was Carter, but his mind didn't embrace that idea. People didn't turn into snakes, or anything else, for that matter.

Even if that weren't the case, how could he just come to terms with a teammate, a friend, being condemned to such a fate?

"I don't know if I can do that, T."

Teal'c nodded. "If that is the case, can you work past your own difficulties with the situation to help Major Carter accept such a possibility?"

"We're not done trying, yet." Jack dodged.

"No, and I suspect we never truly would be."

Xel'naga

Hammond made his way from his office to the Control Room. It was no surprise for him to see Major Carter and Alahn standing by the empty technician's station, even though it was still some time before the scheduled wormhole activation to communicate with the Xel'nagans... hopefully.

"Major. Alahn." The General greeted, receiving a slight jump in response. He did not think that they would have been so oblivious to his arrival.

"General." Alahn returned after a moment.

"There is still an hour before the scheduled contact." He told her, though he was sure that she was aware of that much.

"I know."

"How long have you been here?" Hammond asked with both curiosity and empathy.

Alahn looked around the room as if trying to find a reference before replying. "I don't know."

Which no doubt meant that they had been there for quite some time. The General had come down early just because he knew one or more of SG-1 would already be there waiting. That Major Carter was there had been no surprise to him, what they were trying to do had everything to do with her. He knew how long she had been waiting for some solution or another that had yet to show itself.

"What are you thinking?" he asked, catching Alahn by surprise. She had not been anticipating such a question.

"I'm wondering what these guys will be like if and when we actually talk to them. Even if they do have the power to do something, will they even want to help?"

It was a question he didn't have an answer for, or a response that was worth giving. They'd have to see what would happen. Of course, that was the problem in a nutshell, they didn't know.

After standing with her a few moments, Hammond decided there wasn't any reason to hold off for another hour before making contact. No SG team was scheduled to return, and SG-7 would depart that afternoon. Taking a few steps over to the phone, he called the rest of SG-1 up so they could get on with things.

He, too, wanted to know what would happen next.

It was only a few short minutes later that everyone was standing in the control room, including the technician that had stepped away. A second MALP stood ready at the bottom of the ramp, just in case. Everything looked ready.

"Dial up the 'gate, Sergeant." Hammond ordered.

"Yes, sir." They all looked on in silence as the inner ring began to spin. Even O'Neill was uncharacteristically quiet as they waited.

The 'gate awoke with its usual splendor. After the event horizon retreated back into itself, the feed from the first MALP began on the screen, showing that it had not been destroyed between then and now. Warriors surrounded the Stargate, the scene almost identical to the one from the other day.

Identical, save for one figure who stood out from the rest.

The new Xel'nagan stood with a presence that drew attention to it. It wore a silver, reflective kilt, and a flowing cape of the same color covered one shoulder and brushed against the ground below. A large earring glinted from the top of one ear, the tentacles that covered its head were braided in a style similar to dreadlocks.

After taking one step forward, the alien stood still and looked directly into the camera, appearing to realize its purpose. Only one word was spoken, the tones of a symbiote adding to the commanding quality of its voice. "Kelsa."

"What did it say?" Major Carter asked.

"Speak." Teal'c replied.

"Doesn't beat around the bush, now does he?" Colonel O'Neill commented.

Doctor Jackson looked back towards Hammond, seeking approval before he continued. The General nodded perceptibly, hiding his excitement over the situation. He could see that Major Carter was eyeing the Xel'nagan exclusively, as though trying to peer into its very soul. It was obvious she was unable to find her answers that way, as her attention turned to Jackson.

Activating the microphone, Daniel Jackson spoke a short phrase to the Xel'nagan. The warriors around it tensed at the unexplained noise, warily eyeing the MALP. The leader, it was obvious that the Xel'nagan before them could be nothing else, gave no reaction.

The Xel'nagan replied, and they both spoke at length. All, save Teal'c, hung on every incomprehensible word, trying to determine the course of their conversation through body language. Hammond couldn't read the alien, not that it made any gestures that might give a hint as to its mood. He could, however, read the body language of his people. At least enough so to realize that they had arrived at the important part. Daniel's face belied his extreme concentration to phrase every line just right, and Teal'c listened on with keen interest.

Raising its voice, the Xel'nagan interrupted Daniel, spoke for a short while, and then walked away.

The first thing Hammond did was look over to Major Carter. He expected some sort of reaction from her at this obvious turning away by the alien. To her credit, the only outward clue to her feelings was the stiffness with which she stood.

Daniel stepped away from the microphone, so the General gave the signal to the technician to shut down the 'gate. It was quite apparent that their dialogue was over. He could not tell how it went, though. While Doctor Jackson did look frustrated, their wasn't utter failure in his features.

"What just happened?" O'Neill was the first to ask.

"I was trying to tell him what happened to Sam and that we needed their help. He cut me off and said that any requests would have to be made to the Council by the one who needs help."

The fact that Doctor Jackson's voice was filled with frustration at not being able to get a straight answer didn't register to the General. He was too surprised by the revelation that the alien hadn't rejected them outright. Hammond had been certain that was just what had happened. It hadn't occurred to him that decorum would cause the alien to refuse to listen to their case on the spot. Of course, that brought up a slight problem.

They would have to send SG-1 to a potentially hostile planet.

"Debriefing in 30 minutes." Hammond announced, allowing time for everyone to gather their thoughts.

Xel'naga

Daniel hadn't expected the situation that the Xel'nagan had put them in. He was no fool and knew they'd have to go to the planet at some point. But now they'd have to go under questionable circumstances, if they went at all. The alien had just told them that the Council would only hear requests from the one who wanted the help. There was no mention to their actually being invited to the planet, or the reception they might receive if they went there.

It could be implied that by being told that much they were being invited. The assumption would come from an Earth culture view point, and wouldn't necessarily hold true with this other culture. Maybe the Xel'nagan had simply stated a fact, but neglected to mention that they were not welcome to the courtesy.

Daniel and Teal'c were the only ones in the Briefing Room. Sam and Alahn had decided to take the time that the General had given them and clear their heads some. Jack was somewhere around the base, but hadn't said where he was going. Hammond was in his office, and Daniel could see through the window that he was currently on the phone. He had forgotten that higher powers held sway over what they might do next. What had the Joint Chiefs decided to do with the current information?

Hammond put down the phone a few minutes later. After a few moments just sitting at his desk, the General rose and entered the Briefing Room. Daniel just waited for him to talk.

"It turns out the President decided to take my suggestion of confidentiality on this matter. To prevent the NID, or others with questionable interests from attempting anything underhanded, a modified story has been inserted into the records. Major Carter is officially MIA, and Alahn is a refugee that was rescued on a recon mission. Based on this information, the Joint Chiefs have voted to allow a rescue mission to this planet if the risks are deemed appropriate."

"The Joint Chiefs know the truth, though?" Daniel asked.

"Outside of this mountain, the President and Joint Chiefs are the only ones who officially know what's going on. The true records of this situation are being held under the highest security clearance. Since Major Carter is already of interest to certain groups because of prior circumstances, it has been deemed that this will remain unknown to all but a select few of those who are aware of the Stargate." Hammond replied.

That was good. Even if they did get Sam back to normal, there would be those unscrupulous enough to think her experience as a symbiote would be cause enough for confinement and study. Lord knew there were quite a few of that mind just after her experience with Jolinar. Thankfully enough, between Hammond and the President, they were overruled.

It seemed some people were quick to forget that even though Sam had been through some odd experiences, she was still human.

They waited for Jack and Sam to return. Sam was the first to get to the Briefing Room, offering a brief greeting as she arrived, Jack arriving a few short minutes afterwards. Sitting down in their respective seats, they waited for the General to begin. Looking at Sam, Daniel could tell without a doubt that she wanted to go to the planet, despite the possible risks. And, if Sam wanted to go into such a potentially dangerous situation, then Alahn must have wanted to, also.

"Doctor Jackson, if you would go into more detail on what just occurred." Hammond requested.

Daniel nodded before talking. "I started off by telling the Xel'nagan that we were peaceful explorers from a planet called Earth, and were enemies of the Gould, just in case the note we sent didn't say what we wanted it to. He asked how we found their planet, and I told him that we were looking for them. He then asked why, so I started to tell him that we needed their help and explained why, and that's when he cut me off. He said that requests can only be made to the entire Council by the one whom it concerns." Daniel told them.

"Major Carter and Alahn would have to go to the planet." Teal'c stated.

"Not alone, they're not." Jack responded instantly.

"Jack, no one's suggesting that anyone go anywhere alone." Daniel chided.

"People." Hammond spoke in a firm voice, cutting off any further argument on the subject.

Everyone involved had the decency to look scolded.

"Ever occur to you that this is some sort of trap?" Jack tossed up.

"How so?" Daniel immediately wondered.

"What if they don't believe that we don't work for the Gould?"

That was a good question, had the Xel'nagans ever seen a human that wasn't in service to the "gods"?

"My presence may make things more difficult. The Xel'nagans may be willing to believe that Humans are not their enemy, but I am jaffa." Teal'c added.

"Considering how fondly the other batch welcomed you..." Jack let his comment trail off, leaving the others to fill in the rest for themselves.

Jaffa had already proven themselves as enemies to the Xel'nagans. While Coumat-Shesh may have been willing to believe that Teal'c had turned against his former masters, the Council may not draw the same conclusion. It would take only one trigger-happy warrior at the 'gate.

"So, you're saying that we should leave Teal'c behind?" Daniel asked. It did seem logical, but they were a team, and Teal'c was a vital piece to that team.

"If they label him as an enemy, just how far do you think we'll get?" Jack returned. "Look, I don't like it either."

Alahn then spoke up. "What if Teal'c doesn't bring his staff, and hides his tattoo? The more people we have that understand Goa'uld, the better."

"I agree. Teal'c is important to this mission. It's a risk to send any of you there, and I believe your best chances are as a team." The General stated.

"Yes, sir. No one on base besides Daniel knows the language well enough, and we can use all the help we can get on that front." Jack stated, though Daniel knew the General was well aware of the facts.

"I'm still not fond of putting all of your lives at risk like this."

"What about weapons?" Alahn asked. "Are we bringing any?"

"We should, even if they're going to be practically useless." Daniel knew he surprised everyone by his words. He always tried to find the peaceful solution.

"Hold the phone. Did our resident talk-first-get-shot-at-later man just propose we bring guns?" Jack wanted to hear his reasoning.

"The Xel'nagans respect warriors. If we go in defenseless it will be a sign that we are weak. Provoking them should be the last thing we do, but looking like complete rollovers will only hurt us." Daniel explained. They had to show the Xel'nagans they were on equal footing if they hoped to get any cooperation from them.

"I take it I will be unarmed, though." Alahn concluded, her tone slightly bitter.

"I don't..." Jack began.

"Daniel already said we're bringing weapons for appearance. Won't it look better if we are all armed, especially me? I'm the one who's asking for their help, after all. If they think I'm weak, then won't that hurt our chances as badly as anything?" Alahn asked. Daniel was aware that she was the last person to want anything to stand in the way.

"She is correct." Teal'c asserted. "If we are to bring weapons, we all should bring weapons."

"Colonel?" Hammond asked, seeking Jack's approval as the team leader.

"I can't think of anything better, sir." Jack replied.

"Before we go through, I can tell them that we are sending four of our warriors to talk with them. That way they shouldn't be as antsy when we do go." Daniel added. It was a precaution. While going unarmed would certainly be a bad idea, going in with weapons unannounced could be just as bad.

"Might want to make sure they want us to come while you're at it." Jack suggested.

Daniel could have scowled at him. That was the whole reason to announcing their intentions. Instead, he decided to humor Jack. "Of course."

"Is that all?" Hammond asked.

"We'll know once we get there, won't we?" Jack responded.

The General didn't look too impressed with his reply.

"You'll head out in two hours. Dismissed."

Xel'naga

Teal'c fingered the bandana that covered his head and, most importantly, his tattoo. The bandana, aptly enough, was one of Daniel Jackson's. It wasn't the first time he had had to wear a hat of some sort, but it was still uncomfortable for Teal'c. He wasn't used to hiding what he was. It was necessary, and he would put up with any discomfort to help Major Carter return to normal.

The Tau'ri firearm was also awkward. Teal'c had learned how to handle the Tau'ri's weapons long ago, but he still preferred the feel of the staff weapon he had used all of his life. O'Neill had decided that P90s were the weapon of choice for this mission. It was a powerful weapon, certainly, but Teal'c couldn't help but scoff at its size and weight. Compared to a staff weapon, it looked like a toy. It's appearance belied the weapon's true potential, he had seen many jaffa felled by a well-placed shot.

He stood in the 'Gate Room, along with O'Neill and Major Carter. Daniel Jackson remained in the Control Room as the Stargate dialed the Xel'nagans' planet, waiting to send his message before they attempted travel. As the seventh chevron locked and the connection was established, Teal'c watched through the window as Daniel began to speak. Though he couldn't actually hear any of it, Teal'c recognized the brief pauses as a response from someone on the other end, possibly the same Xel'nagan as before.

From his expression, Teal'c could see that the mission was on. As Daniel Jackson came through the large door, O'Neill was quick to question him.

"And?"

"A Xel'nagan by the name of Taldo is waiting for us. He's going to 'oversee' our conduct, and take us to the council." The archaeologist replied.

"A babysitter?" O'Neill spoke with mock indignation.

"It is only wise for them to monitor our actions, O'Neill. Were the situation reversed, we would insist upon similar precautions." Teal'c replied.

Major Carter didn't enter into their banter. Her attention was focused solely on the Stargate, and Teal'c could see the anxiety in her features. He could appreciate what she was going through. This would be the defining moment. Barring some unforeseen event, the Xel'nagans would decide whether Major Carter could be helped or not. Everything depended on what was on the other side of the wormhole.

There was hope, though. If nothing else, the Xel'nagans seemed willing to hear them out. That much easily led to the conclusion that, if the request was reasonable, the Xel'nagans might agree.

"Ready, children?" O'Neill asked, receiving nods and words of varied enthusiasm.

Teal'c stood in the front beside O'Neill. Were something to happen, he might be able to do something to save the lives of Daniel Jackson and Major Carter. More likely he would just die first, but either way he'd do what he could. Stepping through the 'gate, Teal'c prepared himself for whatever might come.

On the other side, Teal'c found that he and O'Neill were in a standoff. No less than eight Xel'nagans held weapons prepared to fire at any provocation. In response, their P90s were also ready. It didn't take a genius to figure out who would win if either side did start something.

The slurping noise behind them heralded the arrival of the other half.

"(We're not here to fight!)" Daniel Jackson immediately spoke out in Goa'uld.

"(So you say.)" one of the Xel'nagan warriors replied, lowering his weapon and standing proudly. Teal'c noticed that this one was different from the others. He had an armlet that was engraved with a picture of a symbiote, yet his voice did not hold the recognizable dual tones.

"(It's the truth.)" Daniel assured.

"Is this going to get ugly, Daniel?" O'Neill questioned, noting that the other warriors had yet to put their weapons aside.

"We're going to have to go first."

O'Neill simply looked at each of his teammates in turn, then gave a slight nod of acceptance. Together, they lowered the muzzles of their P90s to the ground, letting the weapons hang by the straps.

After a moment, the Xel'nagan that had spoken said something in his own language, and the warriors surrounding them took on less threatening postures. One of them, however, didn't look happy about it.

"Kalwea!" Teal'c recognized the word as one that was used when the MALP had first arrived on this planet.

Taldo, Teal'c assumed the one that spoke Goa'uld had to be their contact, glared at the warrior in question.

"Tena kalwea!" the warrior replied to the look, more forcefully.

"Veloa! Goaga dersha!" Taldo commanded.

"Tena..." he began.

"Goaga dersha!" Taldo cut him off, taking a step forward for emphasis.

"Ento." The warrior said in a clipped fashion, lowering his eyes to the ground.

Satisfied with the reply, Taldo looked to them. "(I am Taldo. Come.)"

Teal'c did not inquire into the incident, and he knew Daniel Jackson did not for the same reason, because it was obvious that Taldo would not tell them. The specifics were not important, all they needed to be aware of was their presence obviously grated on some. It might even have grated on all, just only a few were willing to voice it.

With the possibility, Teal'c wondered why they were welcomed at all. What was their Council trying to accomplish? Was it curiosity of these people who would ask for their help? Was it something so simple, yet so binding, as tradition?

The area around the Stargate was similar to that of the previous world they had been to, save the forest had not had the chance to encroach on the device. They followed a footpath. The new growth around the edges suggested that it used to be a much wider path than it was currently. Traffic around the Stargate had obviously been light for quite some time.

Taldo walked in front, paying SG-1 no attention. The rest of the warriors brought up the rear. Teal'c could hear muttered words, and feel eyes raking across his and his companions' backs. Hatred filled the air, and he had no doubt that were Taldo not there they would be dead.

"Daniel, does he have a symbiote?" Major Carter asked in a hushed tone that could barely be heard, hinting towards Taldo. Teal'c could not sense a symbiote, and therefore neither could she. That did not mean that there wasn't one, though, because they had not been able to sense the symbiote in Coumat-Shesh.

"I don't know. He isn't part of the Council, though. He's just taking us to them."

"Anyone else get the distinct impression that a few of our hosts here would be more than happy to acquaint us with our internal organs?" O'Neill added.

"Oh, yeah." Alahn added, peeking slightly over her shoulder. One of the Xel'nagans behind made a barking noise, and Alahn quickly shifted her eyes front.

"There is indeed much hostility to our presence."

"Let's just hope that our good friend here doesn't get tired of us, then." O'Neill suggested.

Teal'c had to agree.

They walked until nightfall, and still had not reached their destination. Teal'c felt the trek in his muscles, but the fatigue was far more apparent on his companions. They were all short of breath as they set camp. A couple Xel'nagans had retreated into the woods, and Teal'c watched as they returned with two deer-like animals between them.

O'Neill came up beside Teal'c, having finished with his tent. "Is that supposed to be dinner?"

"Probably tastes like chicken." Daniel replied as he walked into view, smiling mischievously.

"Just because YOU'RE always so eager to try the local cuisine..." O'Neill started.

"This coming from the man who ate the cake." Daniel Jackson sighed. Teal'c watched as O'Neill reddened slightly at the reference that had almost put him in an early grave.

"Well, they might not be willing to share." Alahn suggested in a hopeful tone.

Xel'naga

It could be worse. Sam responded to Alahn's nervousness. While they were being regarded in a less than welcome way, at least they hadn't been marked for death. Yet, at least. Both sides sat around their own fires, the warriors completely ignoring SG-1.

But that one, Alahn turned to face the Xel'nagan in question who had put up the fuss at the 'gate, isn't one of them.

Sam knew the point Alahn was making, that one might not stay completely controlled. It was a fact that she was already aware of, but hadn't wanted to think too hard about. They... Sam couldn't finish the thought, her emotions were too strong. Alahn was in control, though she couldn't help but to sit down heavily on a nearby stone as Sam's feelings bombarded her. They both were completely motionless, waiting for the wave to pass.

"You ok?" Daniel's face came into view as he kneeled in front of them. One of his hands lightly grasped Alahn's upper arm, responding to the disease in her features.

"We're fine." Alahn assured him.

"Really?"

"Sam just got a little excited for a moment." She replied with a light smile.

"Oh." Daniel said suddenly as realization dawned on him.

"Yeah."

He cleared his throat and began hesitantly. "I see."

Sam took control and pushed Daniel on his butt as she stood up quickly. "Daniel!"

"What?" Daniel cried out from his undignified position.

"I can't believe you." Sam joked, shaking her head at him.

Then she noticed that the Xel'nagans were staring at her. She couldn't make out their expressions, but she definitely didn't like how they all were looking at her. Her gun was resting by her pack, and Sam keenly missed its comforting weight. Not that it would really be any help to her if she had it in her hand.

Daniel followed her gaze and got up as he saw what had caught her attention.

"What's going on?" the Colonel asked as he came into view, taking note of the sudden silence. Sam didn't take her eyes off of the Xel'nagans, but she could hear him grip his P90 tighter. Another pair of footfalls announced Teal'c's arrival.

No one said a word. Both sides stared down the other expectantly. Even Taldo seemed surprised.

Stupid. Sam admonished herself. She hadn't considered for that one second that the Xel'nagans here didn't know that Alahn had a symbiote. The warriors already mistrusted them greatly. Had she just inadvertently destroyed whatever safety they may have had?

They haven't attacked or anything... yet. Alahn pointed out.

"What's going on?" Colonel O'Neill finally asked again.

Sam decided it best to keep her mouth shut for the time being.

"I think Sam just surprised them." Daniel explained.

"Bad?"

"I don't know."

Taldo stood up while the warriors remained where they were. He looked at her as he spoke. "Goa'uld."

Sam recoiled at the accusation. Such a stupid mistake, she could have doomed Alahn and her friends with that momentary slip.

"Kiet Goa'uld." Daniel countered.

Taldo's voice raised in response. He and Daniel, with Teal'c soon joining in, were arguing passionately. Though Sam couldn't follow the actual words, she heard the frustration in Daniel's voice, and the conviction in Teal'c's. Her tense muscles began to ache, but she couldn't relax them. She couldn't do anything, not with so much riding on the moment.

The debate finally ended. After a few moments, Taldo relaxed his stance. That one movement let her know that Daniel and Teal'c had been successful on at least some level. Sam finally allowed herself to relax, and turned to Daniel for an explanation.

"He said the Council will decide." Daniel explained.

Her head bobbed slightly as she gave control to Alahn. At that moment Sam wanted to distance herself from the moment as much as possible. Unfortunately, it wasn't very far.

Alahn turned back to the Xel'nagans. All save Taldo were still staring intently at her. It was extremely disconcerting. She quickly looked away. Even though she couldn't see them, Alahn could still feel their eyes burrowing into her. She didn't like the feeling one bit.

After giving Daniel a brief glance, Alahn retreated into one of the tents. The thin layer of canvas didn't seem enough protection against what lay beyond, but was still preferable to actually standing outside. She couldn't help the anxiety that ran through her, and subsequently, Sam. Still thoroughly shocked, she wondered what exactly was going through the minds of the warriors out there?

They definitely weren't expecting that.

Why should they? In their world, the only people with symbiotes are Council members and the Goa'uld.

How will the Council react, then? Alahn asked, worse case scenario racing through her mind.

Hopefully, Sam began as everyone in Alahn's scenario was killed, not like that.

The sudden noise of the tent zipper opening startled them both. For a moment panic prevailed as they wondered exactly who might be trying to enter. When the silhouette became noticeable, Alahn exhaled in relief. Her cheeks burned as she realized how unfounded her sudden fear had been. They would have heard something to clue them in long before that point.

Daniel's head finally poked through, the rest of him quick to follow. After closing the flap, he sat down on the other sleeping bag.

"Jack divvied up the watches. Considering what just happened, he thought it best that you not take one this time around." Daniel said cautiously, but he didn't need to bother. Sam was more than happy to sit this one out, and Alahn agreed with her emphatically. Being out there, effectively alone, wasn't very appealing.

Alahn just nodded in response, the knowing look Daniel gave them revealing that their reply had been considered a possibility. Of course, Daniel had seen her as she had retreated out of sight. It wouldn't have been very hard for him to put it together.

"I didn't know that they weren't told, or I would have said something."

"What?" They should have known?

"The first talk I had with the Council member, I got far enough in my story to tell him that you had been turned into a symbiote before he cut me out. It was the first thing I said on the matter because it was so important. I didn't know that he wouldn't warn the warriors."

"It doesn't make any sense not to." Alahn stated.

"There must have been some reason."

Maybe they hoped a slipup like this would do their work for them. Sam suggested, but Alahn didn't voice the possibility. They were already aware that this could be a trap.

"What do you think is going to happen?" Alahn asked him.

"I don't know. It's too soon to say anything."

Alahn took a deep breath. "I don't think they're going to help."

"You don't know that, though." Daniel was quick to reply.

But what else were they supposed to think? Alahn and Sam both wanted to scream that out at him. Even before the warriors there had known that there was a symbiote among them, they had been less than welcome. The Xel'nagans had something against them for merely being human, which was perfectly understandable with their history. It didn't bode well for their case, even if it did make sense on some level. Why would they even consider helping someone who they only knew of as an enemy in the first place?

"They're obviously willing to listen." He added, seeing in her face the direction her thoughts had turned. "If they thought we were a threat... if they wanted us dead we would already be."

"They do think the Goa'uld are gods. Maybe they just can't kill us outright." Alahn was surprised by how calmly she stated such a horrific notion. Being led like lambs to the slaughter didn't scare her the way she thought it would. The only thing that really hurt was the idea that Daniel, Jack, and Teal'c would die along with them.

"Coumat-Shesh realized that we weren't enemies, their Council is capable of reaching the same conclusion."

"They don't have a reason to." Alahn countered.

"Neither did he."

Alahn mulled it over in her head. Daniel had a point, there was no real reason for Coumat-Shesh to trust them. He could have doomed the rest of his people by giving them the coordinates to this world. And, it wasn't at all unprecedented for a ruling body to have a different agenda than the people beneath it. Maybe, just maybe, they'd have a reason to help.

Xel'naga

The continuing walk the next day was the most stressful event Daniel had ever been through. Without really thinking about it Daniel, Jack, and Teal'c had formed a human barrier between Sam and Alahn and their warrior escorts. One of them always fell between her and any of the aliens. What only served to make it worse was the warriors acted as though nothing had happened, not even bothering to look at their charge. It made Daniel wonder if they were taking this too far.

Occasionally one of the Xel'nagans would let his mask of indifference slip momentarily, casting away any of his doubts.

As they crested a substantial rise, Daniel and the others froze at what they saw. Jutting out of the valley below was a massive city. Buildings rose high from the ground to which they were rooted, very few corners or points of any sort were visible. A rusty red seemed to be the predominant color, but swaths of greens, blues, and grays could also be seen. From the distance they stood away, which was at least half a mile, hints of sounds wafted. Motion could be seen between the buildings. Daniel lost himself within its depths.

They finally continued down the incline, completely taken aback by the sight before them. Of course they knew there would be some sort of population center, but the sudden reveal of the city, as though it were growing before their eyes, had been something none of them had been prepared for. Aside from the temple, they hadn't had a chance to see what these people were capable of making.

Daniel felt his apprehension rising the closer they got. He wasn't sure what to expect now. How would the other Xel'nagans react to their presence. Were they even aware that offworlders were coming? Part of Daniel, the part that loved to observe and study other cultures, wanted to see what would happen. He wanted to see the structure of their society in action so he could better understand their people. The rest of him just hoped that no further complications would plague them.

Arriving at the outskirts of the city, Daniel was shocked by what he saw. The skeptical look he saw Jack give made him realize he wasn't the only one who saw something wrong with what was before them. It was a twisted combination of technology and archaic practices that didn't make any sense. A container that had a shell-like shape hovered a few feet off the ground. It was about 10 feet tall and slightly longer, with two Xel'nagans pushing it along through the air. Even though it floated they still had to contend against inertia and friction with the air. Their exertions were obvious.

The two were dressed far differently than the warriors that escorted SG-1. Instead of kilts they wore loincloths and wore a metal shoulder pad on their right shoulder, which was the one that pushed against the container. Daniel realized that their paths were going to intersect, and wondered how the conflict of interests would be dealt with. The laborers saw the approaching group and stopped short of getting in the warriors way. It was only after this that they noticed the humans, and Daniel watched as they were given curious stares.

It didn't really come as a surprise when the warriors didn't even look in the laborers' direction.

"Slaves?" Alahn asked.

"The worker caste, I'd imagine." Daniel replied.

The most disturbing part of it all was, since they obviously had the technology, why didn't they just put a drive system on the container as well? The technology must have existed, so why make them work harder than they needed to? But that wasn't what they were there for. It would hardly do to start criticizing the Xel'nagans way of life if they wanted to get any help from them.

Entering the city, they saw all manners of Xel'nagans walking the street. It was difficult to tell with the loose robes and the difference between species, but Daniel thought that he might have seen a female. She looked no less rugged than any other Xel'nagan they had seen, but something was different. Thin chains wrapped around each tentacle that fell from her head, jingling with each step. Her blue robes kept going even as she stopped, floating with her previous momentum. Daniel watched her watch him, until she apparently deemed the spectacle before her something she didn't want a part of and continued on.

Obviously clothing was used to represent station, but Daniel could only guess what caste each one was. Workers, both adult and juvenile, were the most common sight. A group of worker children were running about the street with sticks carved in the shape of the warriors' weapons. They fought each other with youthful exuberance, occasionally landing blows that were very obviously not checked.

Jack grumbled as they got closer, the violent mock-battle gaining detail. Daniel watched as the other man squinted his eyes with each connected hit. It was obvious what was going through Jack's head at the moment, there was way too much enthusiasm being shown by both sides. The Xel'nagans continued about the street, paying the fighting no mind.

One particularly well-placed blow sent one of the competitors spiraling to the ground.

"Enough's enough." Jack stated with irritation, making to break from the procession.

"Jack." Daniel grabbed his sleeve.

"Interference will do no good, O'Neill." Teal'c cautioned.

Jack didn't look at all convinced. Before he could react, though, the children had seen the group of warriors approaching. Immediately the play stopped and the one that had knocked down his rival came forth. Respect burned in the child's eyes as he said a few hesitant words to Taldo.

Taldo's reply pleased the child immensely, and he stood proud as the warriors continued past.

"They get rewarded for that sort of thing?" Jack speculated incredulously.

"I don't know what that was about, it could be a different matter entirely." Daniel replied.

"Well, no one seemed in a rush to end that little show we just had."

"It is not our mission to change their culture, O'Neill." Teal'c warned.

"Hey, from what Daniel's already told us about these guys, they sure could use some change." Jack returned.

"Do you really think that they would listen to us, though?" Alahn asked rhetorically. "The only thing we could possibly do is make things worse."

Jack didn't seem to have a reply for that one, and he begrudgingly let the topic drop.

Xel'naga

Alahn shifted on the seat she had claimed. After being ushered through the city to a building occupying the center, Taldo had dumped them in a large antechamber, where they now currently waited. He had then confiscated their weapons. Despite its size, the room was almost completely devoid of accessories of any sort. Two pillars jutted up from the center of the room carved with intricate designs that none of them could interpret. The walls, aside from being the rusty red color they saw throughout the city, were empty. In fact, the seat Alahn used was no more than a large window sill.

They had already been waiting for quite a while, and something told Alahn that it wasn't about to change soon. She had to wonder whether it was customary to be made to wait so long, or if the situation came from their being unwelcome.

It's obvious that they don't want us here.

They're not going to help us. Alahn replied.

They have no reason to. Sam agreed. Their welcome had certainly done nothing to change their minds that the Xel'nagans probably weren't going to be of any help to them.

"Ahg, my butt's fallen asleep." The Colonel suddenly said, breaking the silence.

They all turned to look at him, but no one reacted to his attempt at comic relief.

Daniel shook his head and continued to study the pillar he stood beside. Alahn continued to watch the Colonel as he gave a look of defeat. "No?"

Alahn shook her head. Humor was something that she definitely couldn't accept right then. She was certain that she and Sam were on the verge of losing any hope they had, and there was absolutely nothing funny about that.

"Well, it ain't right to keep a fella waiting for," the Colonel looked down at his watch to verify the time, "over three hours."

"The Goa'uld are known to keep envoys waiting as long as possible to dull their mind when the meeting does take place." Teal'c said.

"But, Teal'c, the Xel'nagans aren't Gould." Daniel immediately countered.

"Their origins are the Goa'uld. It is not easy for a group built on such foundations to turn so firmly against their beginnings."

"The Tok'ra did." Daniel said.

"The Tok'ra," Teal'c began, "are not without their own problems."

Daniel didn't want to give up. "They are enemies of the Gould, Teal'c."

"All Goa'uld are enemies, even among themselves."

"So, T, you think they're Gould?" the Colonel asked.

"I do not discount the possibility of great similarities in conduct."

Sam really didn't want to hear that. But then, Coumat-Shesh had specifically asked them to not reveal his existence. It wasn't a good sign when a group could be rejected for being captured instead of killed in battle. SG-1 had been captured so many times that if that were the case on Earth they would have been outcasts dozens of times over.

Were they really a people to be attempting relations with in their current state?

If they'll help us out, who cares? Alahn returned.

If they're really that similar to the Goa'uld... I couldn't just condone their actions like that. Sam stated.

Condone? What does that have to do with anything? We wouldn't be telling them that what they do is right or wrong. Alahn was starting to get frustrated.

It would be implied.

Imply whatever you want. But, if these guys did agree to help us, and you don't like how they do things around here, would you really refuse?

I...

Alahn warned her. They ARE our last chance.

I would.

Well, I wouldn't.

"Hey, you all right?" Alahn looked up to see Daniel staring at her.

"Yeah." She couldn't suppress the hint of anger that laced her words.

"Woah there, tiger." The Colonel responded. "It was just a question."

But her anger hadn't been directed at Daniel. She just couldn't believe that after everything Sam would be able to just turn away so easily. Where would that leave her? After everything in Alahn's life had been turned upside down, Sam could just sit there and say "no thank you?"

You know I can leave, and if it comes to that, I will. Sam warned her.

But that's not how I want it to end!

"Carter! Alahn!" Alahn snapped back to reality with the Colonel shaking her shoulders softly. Her first reaction was to struggle, which only made him hold on tighter. "Hey, hey, hey."

"Let go." Alahn said.

"Calm down." He returned.

"Please."

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing that concerns you." She said, knowing full well it wouldn't be enough to deter him. Teal'c and Daniel looked on, equally unfazed.

Sam took over, with Alahn's consent. "Could you just drop it?" she said, adding a belated "sir."

"What's going on?" Daniel asked, coming forward.

"This is between us, ok?"

"What is?" Colonel O'Neill continued.

Alahn willed them to shut up and go away, but apparently they weren't listening. So what if Sam wasn't willing to deal with these guys if they turned out to be something other than what Coumat-Shesh had said. That wasn't their business, especially when she and Alahn had yet to figure it out for themselves. Alahn didn't care, she just wanted this whole mess to be over. Erased. The only way for that to happen would be for Sam to return to normal. Just having her leave wasn't good enough, it would always leave Alahn with the disturbing reminder that, while she may have gotten her wish, someone else would still be suffering.

So, what about what I want? Alahn asked.

I just don't know. Sam wasn't sure what they should do, whose choice to follow. It might not come to that, though. Teal'c was just saying that the possibility was there, not that it was true, or most likely true.

But what if it IS true? What would we do then? I want to, you don't want to. Who wins?

"Please, sir, can you just give us some space to figure this out?" Sam asked, unable to divide her attention.

He thought it over for a few minutes. "We'll discuss it later, whatever 'it' is?"

Alahn agreed and Sam nodded. Anything to get them off their backs for a little while.

So what do we do? Sam wondered herself.

There isn't a compromise for this sort of situation. Either they did, or they didn't. But which would it be, if the situation came to pass? She was willing to go through with any decision that Alahn wanted, but not if these Xel'nagans were trying to throw them for a loop. Collaborating with the Goa'uld or those with similar goals just wasn't something she'd let herself do.

Why does what will happen to me matter so much to you? How come my staying this way is so intolerable?

Alahn hadn't really thought about it herself, mostly because it was something she didn't want to think about. The whole idea of the situation not being completely resolved didn't settle well with her. Sam moving on to another person might solve Alahn's problems, but she wouldn't be able to forget that Sam was still the way she was. It was an idea that distressed Alahn to think about. While the circumstances weren't ideal, she had come to think of Sam as a friend. She needed an absolute ending. A happy one. Anything else just wouldn't do.

Sam immediately felt guilty for asking, knowing that Alahn couldn't give her an answer.

Maybe, even if it does come to it, this won't be our last chance. she offered lamely.

Maybe. Sam didn't believe that there'd be anything after this, and neither did Alahn.

Xel'naga

The distress on Alahn's face was still plainly evident. It seemed that whatever it was that she and Major Carter had wished to discuss without interruption from O'Neill or any of them still remained unsolved. Teal'c knew that his previous words were somehow the cause of the problem, though the exact path their thoughts took them remained a mystery.

Teal'c's pondering was brought to a halt when the large doors that lead to their final destination opened to let Taldo through. The brief glimpse of the interior told them as little as their first sight when Taldo disappeared earlier after telling them they would have to wait. All that Teal'c could tell was that the next room was well lit, while the one they were currently in depended on the large windows near the ceiling for light.

They all stood up at Taldo's presence and approached.

"(The Council is now prepared to see you.)" Taldo informed them.

"We may now enter." Teal'c said for O'Neill's and Alahn's benefit.

"It's about time!" O'Neill commented.

"Um, Jack, maybe if you could keep the comments to yourself from here. They may not understand what you're saying but the tone might translate well enough." Daniel Jackson suggested.

"Got it." O'Neill gave the 'a-ok' sign. Teal'c still thought the symbol was ridiculous as when O'Neill had first shown it to him.

Daniel shook his head but followed Taldo as he reopened the door. Teal'c brought up the rear of the group, just behind Alahn. She stopped just before crossing the threshold to the next room. The walls within glinted a metallic silver, sharply contrasting with the room they were leaving. Teal'c could make out a large curved rise which six Xel'nagans sat behind, obviously the Council. A warrior stood rigidly behind each one.

"Here's hoping." Alahn said to herself.

"Indeed." Teal'c replied. As the time drew nearer he was beginning to feel an apprehension he never felt outside the heat of battle. He felt he knew Alahn and Major Carter would be feeling it much more strongly. Alahn turned and Teal'c could see the nervousness in her eyes. With a ghost of a smile on his lips, Teal'c bowed his head to her. He couldn't do much for either of them at the moment, so he tried to convey all the courage he could.

With an equally faint smile, Alahn continued through the door with Teal'c not far behind.

Taldo ushered them to the middle of the open room. The only seats within were the ones for the council, the rest of the area was completely open. Looking up at the Council, Teal'c could make out the vacant seat in the center. He also noticed the glaring difference between the Council members on both sides. The one they had seen at the Stargate sat on the left, and the two beside him wore similar clothing. The three members on the right side wore flowing robes of earthy colors.

There was a separation there that was impossible to miss. Something about the way they sat told Teal'c that the division went far beyond physical. The air was tense, promising disaster at the slightest provocation. Even what they had seen on the streets and heard from Daniel Jackson didn't show the animosity between warriors and scientists as the simple scene before him did. Though only separated by feet, Teal'c felt the two sides could almost be worlds apart.

"Anyone else feel a chill in here?" O'Neill asked. Teal'c knew that O'Neill spoke of the same tenseness that he felt.

Motioning for them to remain still, Taldo took a few steps towards the large dais that the Council sat upon. Bowing his head, Taldo ran his fists together and brought them sharply to his chest in a salute. "(Now and for all time I follow the wisdom of the Council. Respectfully I bring before you the outsiders who wish your ear.)"

The Councilmember that had been at the 'gate stood up. "(You do your family great honor, Taldo.)" Teal'c could only look on with surprise as the voice of the symbiote changed to that of the host. "(The Council acknowledges your faithfulness.)"

O'Neill turned in their direction and gave a questioning look, but did not speak. Teal'c could offer him no answers. Even among the Tok'ra they had never seen control swapped so readily.

"(You are most generous, Honored Gaor-Diq.)" Taldo replied, lowering his hands and looking up.

"(Let us conclude this business already, Honored Gaor-Diq. We have no need for such idle banter at this hour.)" The host of one of the Council Members from the other side responded.

"(Honored Xyshokana-Esan, perhaps you forget the decorum for such events?)" Goar-Diq's symbiote suggested.

"(I remember perfectly well. Taldo is a respected warrior and a faithful servant of this Council. He need not be bathed in the fact.)" Xyshokana-Esan's symbiote countered.

"(This is the system left to us by Kintari-Tralik. Are you somehow above this?)" the former's host asked.

Teal'c couldn't believe that the Xel'nagans were in such deterioration that such conflict could arise without even getting to the issue of the offworlders. Such a moot matter as honorifics was stirring more commotion than their existence in that room. It was as though they had forgotten about the humans that now stood among them. Teal'c didn't like how things were shaping up at all.

One of the other robed Councilmembers stood, speaking loudly in the dual tones of the symbiote. "(Honored Gaor-Diq, Honored Xyshokana-Esan, stay this conflict. We are here for other matters.)" When Gaor-Diq took his seat, and it was apparent that neither were going to continue, the Xel'nagan than turned to them. "(Callers, our mandate is to hear all those who wish word with the Council. We await.)"

Daniel Jackson turned to the team. "It's our turn now."

"What the hell just happened?" O'Neill immediately asked.

"Explanations are best left for another time, O'Neill." Teal'c cautioned. Too much 'idle banter' in front of the Council may cause problems.

He obviously didn't like the idea, but recognized the wisdom in Teal'c's words. Reluctantly, O'Neill nodded.

"Hopefully they'll let me speak for you since you don't know Gould." Daniel Jackson told Alahn.

"Yeah."

Stepping forward, Daniel Jackson cleared his throat. "(We thank you for hearing us. We come here because our friend needs help and we think you might be able to... assist her.)"

"(If your friend is the one who requires our aid then why doesn't she ask for it?)" The Xel'nagan asked.

"(My friend is unable to speak this language.)" Daniel replied.

The Councilmember turned his gaze to Alahn, who shifted uncomfortably but held his stare, though she didn't know why he looked at her. Teal'c watched the display and was proud when she didn't back down. Apparently satisfied, the Xel'nagan turned back to Daniel Jackson. "(Continue.)"

"(We are peaceful travelers who explore the galaxy through the Stargate. We discovered a planet with a large pyramid...)"

"(Viadora.)" One of the warrior Councilors stated, the host speaking. "(You gained access to the Temple of Transformation?)"

"(We did.)" Daniel Jackson replied cautiously, sensing the same urgency in the Xel'nagan's words that Teal'c did. "(That's why we come to you for help. We explored the pyramid because we thought it was abandoned. My friend touched the statue and was turned into a symbiote.)"

He didn't have a chance to continue as all of the Councilors began talking at once, some standing. Teal'c couldn't make out anything in their shouting but the outrage. Immediately he missed the presence of his weapon. It seemed that they would soon need to defend themselves and were without the means to.

One of the warrior Councilors shouted the others into silence. The host turned to them demanding answers. "(What of Niethul?)"

Teal'c knew they spoke of the Xel'nagan that they had encountered in the pyramid. From the way Daniel Jackson's face paled at the words, he knew as well. Things were already fragile enough, what would happen if they admitted to killing him, even if it was out of ignorance. Something told Teal'c that they wouldn't be very forgiving with such a technicality.

"(Who is Niethul?)" Daniel asked. He was trying to get more information, to stall for time to come up with something. What he could come up with, Teal'c didn't know. Lying wasn't an option, not if they wanted to build something with these people. Unless outside forces were at play then Niethul's corpse still lay rotting in the room where Teal'c had shot him. There was no way they could hide that fact.

Gaor-Diq's symbiote responded. "(He is to become the next High Councilor. Niethul awaits preserved at the temple for the Chosen to complete his training. If your friend was turned then he was awakened. What have you done with Niethul?)"

"Teal'c?" Daniel Jackson said.

"We cannot lie, Daniel Jackson."

"About what?" Alahn asked.

"The Xel'nagan in the pyramid. His name was Niethul."

"From the way they're acting, I don't think 'sorry, we killed one of your guys' is going to work out very well for us." O'Neill stated.

"We cannot lie, O'Neill. When they return to the pyramid his corpse will still remain." Teal'c said.

"This is not turning out so hot." He replied.

The Xel'nagan's angry stare continued, demanding an answer. Teal'c took in the composure of his friends, all as equally certain that they wouldn't like what was to come. He was not surprised to see guilt in Alahn's features. Since SG-1 came to the Xel'nagan's planet because of them, Teal'c knew it was easy for Major Carter and Alahn to blame themselves for whatever was to come. O'Neill longed as much for his weapon as Teal'c did, and shifted anxiously as a result. Daniel Jackson was attempting to collect himself to continue.

The host of the Xel'nagan that had previously brought about order spoke. "(A question has been posed to you. Answer.)"

"(Everything was happening at once. Our friend had disappeared and... Niethul suddenly appeared. We were defending ourselves as far as we knew.)"

"(You killed him?)" Gaor-Diq asked.

"(In self-defense. We were just trying to protect ourselves.)" Daniel emphasized.

The shouting started again. Teal'c could make out several Council members calling for their deaths while the rest were arguing among themselves. Despite everything all they could do was stand there and wait for whatever was to come.

"(Quiet!)" The previous Xel'nagan's symbiote bellowed. Slowly the din died down.

"(Honored Malo-Sentat, we must...)" Gaor-Diq began.

"(We must nothing! These outsiders came here in good faith. They confessed to the crime and claim it was not in cold blood. Had they viciously murdered Niethul they could simply not have come here, yet they actively sought us out.)" Malo-Sentat stated.

"(You don't suggest that we do nothing?)"

"(No, I merely suggest that the matter must be considered at a greater length before concluding anything. To that end, I believe we should adjourn for the time being and reflect on the current circumstances.)"

"(Very well,)" Gaor-Diq allowed. "(Taldo, take these to the holding room.)"

Without a word, Taldo began to usher SG-1 out even as the Council members continued to argue.

"So, where are we being taken?" O'Neill asked.

"Jail." Daniel Jackson said.

"What's going to happen?" Alahn wondered.

"They have yet to decide." Teal'c said.

Xel'naga

Jail was an apt description for the room they were taken to. Somewhere below the Councilor's building, the walls were made of stone. The metal door completely blocked their view of the outside. Jack had to admit it was the best lit prison he had ever been kept in, and the cell was clean enough. All things considered they were being kept in a pretty decent place. After Daniel had told them that they had killed the future High Councilor, Jack was surprised they weren't dead already.

Whether that would remain the case had yet to be seen. They still had all of their supplies while they waited for the verdict. Considering how long they had to wait the first time, Jack wondered how long they'd be kept there. While it may have been more or less sanitary, it wasn't the largest room he'd ever been in. Maybe 20 feet by 20 feet.

"Cozy." He commented, tapping on the wall.

"The door is secure." Teal'c informed them after testing it. They had all heard it lock after they were put inside, but he didn't expect Teal'c to leave out any possibilities.

"Even if it wasn't, where would we go?" Daniel asked.

Jack had to wonder about that. The only humans, because Teal'c was just another human as far as they were concerned, on an alien planet wouldn't stand a chance of getting out of a city without being seen. Leaving the building itself was probably impossible. Nope, they weren't going anywhere. Not unless someone wanted them to, that is.

Noticing that one of his team had yet to put her word in on the situation, Jack found that Alahn was leaning against the far corner. Her eyes were distant, completely oblivious. He knew basically where Carter's thoughts would be taking her and decided to not allow her or Alahn to brood any longer. The fact that they weren't condemned right off meant there was still some hope left.

"You'll have to accept dimes, afraid I'm fresh out of pennies." Jack said after approaching.

"Huh?" Alahn returned to the moment and looked at him quizzically.

"What's on your mind?"

"Things aren't going so well." Alahn commented.

There weren't many ways to respond to that statement. "Nope. Could be better. Could be worse, too."

He watched her head drop, and the distortion told him that Carter was now talking. "Not only is this mission turning into a momentous failure, I get to take you all out with me."

"Jesus, Carter. We wouldn't be alive if it weren't for you!" Jack stated, referring to all the times she had played an instrumental part in getting them all out of one tight situation or another.

"We wouldn't be HERE if it weren't for me." She countered stubbornly.

"We're a team, Carter. We go through everything together, regardless."

"He's right, Sam." Daniel added.

"We would never abandon you in your time of need." Teal'c said with a nod.

"Still doesn't change the fact that everyone's deaths will hang on my shoulders."

"Never say die." Jack didn't know what else to say. He meant what he said though, even if it was a gross cliche.

"Yeah, Sam. It isn't over until it's over, and like Jack said, we're all in this together and we wouldn't have it any other way."

She smiled wryly. "I still don't like the idea of everyone dying."

"Yeah," Jack agreed with a pleasant smile, "that would really suck, wouldn't it? So, let's see if we can keep that from happening."

Not that they could really do much. These guys seemed to have a hard enough time listening to each other, much less offworlders. Teal'c and Daniel had relayed everything that the Council had said, and Jack was quite surprised that most of it was bickering. Not so surprised that it was between the two factions though. And lucky them, they got to arrive just as everything was seriously falling apart. They'd just have to see what came of it.

At the moment they were prisoners. What amazed Jack the most was that at least one of the Xel'nagans was willing to give them the benefit of the doubt. That Mellow dude was their chance. Apart from being willing to see where they were coming from, the alien appeared to hold considerable weight. Despite the arguments, the warriors went along with what he said. For now, at least.

"Well, looks like we're settled in for the night, if not longer." Jack concluded. "Let's set up sleeping areas. We'll just have to do without the campfire."

Xel'naga

Some things never changed, Daniel mused. Despite being in a prison cell, Jack had still insisted upon watches. There was nothing that the person on watch could do, except warn everyone that the door was opening. That really didn't help matters much. The only purpose it really had was giving Jack a sense of control that he didn't currently possess. Actually, Daniel had to admit that did make him feel a little better, too. It was better than just lying there waiting for the other shoe to drop. Not much better, but it was something.

Of course, it did mean that Daniel got to sit up all alone. There was plenty on his mind to keep him occupied, though. The conflict between the warriors and scientists of the Xel'nagans was as strong as ever by the looks of things. It wasn't good for their case. Daniel had hoped that the struggle would have been dying down, hopefully the scientists on top. The warriors were too stuck in tradition to help them out, that much was for certain. And the scientists couldn't very well do anything to help them unless they had the power to do so. Right now they didn't seem to have that power. The Council may have been split evenly between warriors and scientists, but he had seen the Xel'nagans in the city streets, and there the warriors ruled.

How could they be so blind. The warriors had been unsuccessful in turning back Terak's attack on 2 of their planets, and yet they still insisted upon everything remaining as it always had been. It wasn't right, no one should put their honor above the lives of their own people. The Xel'nagans were ripe for destruction, and they didn't seem to care.

Sighing softly at the frustration he was building in himself, Daniel realized why he really didn't like to be sitting up all alone. There were way too many negative things going on for his thoughts to run on a pleasant course. Not much he could do about it, though. They were stuck in this cell, and would remain so until the Council reconvened. When that happened they'd be at their mercy, like they were now. Begging was the only option they had, and that didn't mean very much.

A rustling caused Daniel to look over and see that Sam and Alahn were awake, and staring back at him. "Can't sleep?"

"Not really." Sam responded. She sat up and scooted her sleeping bag beside him, using it as a cushion against the hard floor.

"Yeah." Daniel had third watch and had found his sleep to be very light and not so restorative himself.

"How can everything still be going from bad to worse?" she wondered idly.

He had to think about that one, too. They were due for a lucky break, weren't they? "It isn't over yet, there's still hope."

Sam scoffed. "You're right. We MAY get out of this alive and somehow get back to Earth. If we're lucky there will be another lead. And one after that."

"Sam." Daniel wished that he had a response that wasn't completely lame, but he couldn't think of anything. Same troubles, same arguments, same replies. He didn't know whether or not everything would work out. Hell, he didn't even know if they'd survive this encounter, so what was there to say that wouldn't be a lie but would still improve Sam's mood somehow?

"No, Daniel, I can't. This has gone on so long I don't remember what it's like to be human anymore." Her voice hitched as she spoke. Daniel felt his chest tighten with her confession. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and got rid of the few inches there had been between them. The tenseness of her muscles told Daniel that she was fighting against an urge to cry. With their current surroundings, he didn't begrudge her.

Xel'naga

It was only a couple hours after they had all awoken that SG-1 was taken back to the Council. Daniel had been surprised by the promptness, but none more so than Jack. Taldo and two other warriors escorted them back to the Council Chamber. It was silent within as they entered. The stares they received, especially from the warrior side, were less than promising.

Daniel took the silence as a chance to truly take everything in. He knew if Gaor-Diq had his way that they would be dead already, and the other warriors seemed to completely agree with him. While Malo-Sentat had advocated for them not to be so hasty in their decision, he never actually said he was for SG-1. For all Daniel knew he could want their deaths just as much as anyone else there. The other scientists were equally ambiguous in their appearance, he couldn't tell which way they were leaning from just looking.

For a brief moment he wondered why these were the only two casts apparently on the Council. Perhaps while they disagreed with each other's principles, both agreed that the likes of the workers should have no voice in their ranks. He didn't like that conclusion, and hoped that there was some other explanation, not that it really mattered to them at the moment.

Malo-Sentat stood. "(It must be decided what to do with these outsiders. They admit to killing Niethul, but in the assumed preservation of their own lives.)"

"(There is nothing to be decided, they should die.)" Gaor-Diq commented, his dual tones final.

"(Do you believe in no sanctity of life save your own?)" the third scientist commented, the symbiote speaking.

"(Perhaps, Begnaish-Urmei, you fail to recognize that the search for another vessel must begin, and the council will remain incomplete even longer than it already has.)"

"(Their deaths will not change that fact, so it is a poor basis for your decision.)" The host replied.

"(I see. You feeble scientists would wish to let them get away without punishment for their actions. Maybe you even think of going against the highest law left by Kintari-Tralik and help them in their endeavor.)"

Begnaish-Urmei arose at the accusation. "(They should be punished, but not how and why you claim. We do have laws, as you so often remind us. According to these laws there is a difference between murder and self-defense. And you twist his words. Our predecessor said we shall never take on a second host, not that we could not return to our natural forms.)"

Gaor-Diq also got out of his seat. "Retulga!"

The cry was followed by a strong punch aimed for Begnaish-Urmei's head, which was stopped by a two-handed block. Daniel was surprised to see no one move to break up the fight, even the warriors that stood behind the Council. Gaor-Diq went for a rib punch with another hand, and that was also blocked. With all his hands busy, Gaor-Diq attacked with his third arm, hitting Begnaish-Urmei in the stomach. The force of the blow doubled him over, but while Gaor-Diq thought he had the upper hand, he wasn't prepared for the shoulder in the stomach that dropped them both to the ground.

"What the hell is going on?" Jack asked.

They could only hear the grunts of the fight as the two continued to slug it out behind the rise. The only thing the other Council members did was to back off and give them room.

"I don't know." Daniel replied.

"Well, can't you ask or something?"

"(What are they doing?)" Daniel asked Taldo.

"(They have insulted each other. Honored Gaor-Diq called a challenge.)"

The two contestants were back on their feet, black blood oozing from various wounds, clothes torn. They continued to fight, and Daniel wondered when it would end.

"(Is the fight to the death?)"

"(I suspect that depends on who wins.)"

Daniel didn't like the sound of that. Begnaish-Urmei was slowing down, while Gaor-Diq seemed far less affected by his wounds. He needed to do something, but there was nothing to do. How could everyone just stand there when they knew that one of their own was going to die? And he had no doubts that Gaor-Diq would kill his opponent were he to win. The hatred that reflected in his eyes, even at the distance that Daniel stood from him, promised no less.

They both looked at each other for a moment, a temporary reprieve in the fight. No one made a sound, though Daniel knew that the others desperately wanted to know what was happening.

"(Do you really think you can win?)" Gaor-Diq asked, his host bemused.

"(This proves nothing.)"

"(You have insulted me. Your ilk has dishonored our people. There is nothing to prove.)"

"(Xel'naga is lost to us because of YOUR ilk!)" Begnaish-Urmei countered.

A raw nerve was struck. "(We will get it back!)"

"(You will not get back Xel'naga for the same reason it was taken in the first place. NOTHING has changed. As long as you have your way, nothing WILL change!)"

Instead of a verbal answer, Gaor-Diq moved so fast that he was almost a blur. His opponent had no chance to counter, his hand moving with lethal force. Begnaish-Urmei collapsed to his knees, clutching his crushed windpipe. Gurgling was plainly audible as he tried to force breaths that wouldn't come. Daniel and the rest could only listen as he fell to the floor, his remaining life slowly ebbing away.

Silence dominated as everyone stared at Gaor-Diq, surprise evident only on the part of SG-1. The remaining scientists looked on with contempt while their guards, including the one whose charge was now dead, came closer with their weapons ready. The other guards took similar precautions.

Ignoring them, Gaor-Diq turned to Taldo. "(Confiscate their possessions and return them to confinement. Their deaths will be public.)"

Taldo and his warriors approached. Jack started to bring up his weapon, but thought better of it. There were enough warriors on their level to beat them in a fight, and then there were the guards on top to contend with. Daniel watched as he reluctantly allowed his weapon to be taken along with his pack.

"Not good?" Jack asked.

"No."

Xel'naga

Ten warriors stood by the inactive Transportation Circle. Faros almost had to laugh at the abundance of guards for something that hadn't been used in over a generation, and never by anyone other than the Xel'nagans. It had seemed ridiculous to him ever since he had become a true warrior. The rumors of recent arrivals seemed to change that, though. He had heard tale of aliens in the city, but hadn't seen them himself. Until being recalled to guard duty he had been in the flatlands with a group of trainees for their rite of passage. The only excitement they were likely to see in quite a while and he had missed it.

A noise in the forest behind him made Faros turn around. Telia, the messenger could be seen approaching. She had a reserved look on her face.

"Hail, Telia, what brings you? We still have many days before our watch at the Circle ends." Faros asked. The other warriors listened on with curiosity.

"There was an honor duel in the Council this morning. Honored Gaor-Diq killed Honored Begnaish-Urmei."

Only two other times had there been an honor duel among the members of the council, neither of them within Faros' lifetime. It wasn't unprecedented, but certainly shocking as they were already one member short. The Chosen High Councilor was still training, and he knew Honored Begnaish-Urmei's adept was not ready to assume his roll. Their leadership was dwindling, not that it had been able to do much with the deadlock between the scientists and the warriors who made it up.

"What was Honored Begnaish-Urmei thinking? He couldn't have hoped to beat a warrior in battle." Misho, another of the warriors, stated. He was condemned from the beginning of the fight. There were dozens of ways to kill in one move, and Honored Gaor-Diq knew them all, along with how to counter them.

"This is not good for the Council." Faros stated.

"It is one less scientist that must be dealt with." Misho replied. He, like most warriors, had no patience for the scientists' claims. Faros, on the other hand, saw the wisdom in their goals. Obviously something was wrong as things were if they lost two of their own worlds and had yet to even attempt a recovery.

He couldn't openly say it, though.

A heavy sound of power from the Circle got everyone's attention. The lights began to activate one by one.

"Prepare yourselves!" Faros ordered, readying his weapon.

All the warriors created a semi-circle around the Transportation circle, weapons aimed at the center as the event horizon shot forth and formed into a shimmering pool. Nothing happened for quite some time and none of them knew what to make of it. The watery surface remained unbroken until a small sphere came through and hit the ground. Faros could see the lights on it as it rolled, and immediately he fired at the device, several warriors following suite. The device was completely pulverized, the energy turning into nothing more than a gob of metal.

After it came short creatures with two arms and lots of armor. The tattoos on their heads and the weapons they carried instantly identified them as servants of the gods. Faros didn't dwell on the fact, instead focusing on shooting them as fast as he could. For a while the tide was held back, but the attackers would often manage a shot or two before they were taken down. Faros' warriors began to fall to the attackers. He knew they wouldn't be able to hold the Circle. Using a free hand, Faros pressed a symbol on his shoulder, sending a signal back to those in the city that the Circle had fallen under attack. They would have some warning, at least.

One of the last warriors still standing, several shots laid Faros on the ground. Something vital had been hit because he couldn't move to continue the fight to his last breath. All he could do was look up at the darkening night sky. A bolt of fire shot down, headed towards the city. Several more shots hit, sounding like thunder as they ripped through the sky.

Then a voice filled the air, seeming to emanate from the sky itself. It spoke in Xel'nagan. "You thought you could walk beside the gods. I, Tralik, will make you suffer greatly for this heresy."

TBC