CHAPTER 103

EPISODE………………TALION

A.U. The episode BAD GUYS took place as is. Ford and Carter were elsewhere talking about the alternate universe with the President and several other people, so, the rest of SG-1 did what they did on that mission without them. Other than a few references by Daniel and Mitchell at some points, saying how they felt things might have been going worse with Ford there, or better as the two might argue about, everything else in the episode was the same. You, the reader, can come up with whatever you think they might have argued about during a short period while they had everyone sitting down in that main room. I did seriously think about sending Ford along and letting Sam discuss everything to those people, but really, those higher ranked officers and the President would want to talk to them both. So, this chapter is the next episode in line.

Teal'c went off world to a Jaffa meeting and to meet with a few friends. When he ended up being late, they sent a M.A.L.P. to investigate, only to find lots of smoke and dead bodies on the video screen. So, SG-1 and a few other teams were on the planet looking for survivors, Teal'c, and what took place. Unfortunately, it was very late as they were looking around, making it rather hard to really get much seen because there wasn't enough light.

"All the way over northeast." Mitchell said over his com to someone.

"Another here." Vala said as she walked over to someone.

There was barely anything that was not hit by whatever attacked the site. No flames or any fires were going despite the fact of all the damage and energy blast zones. Most of the tents had already burned to the ground or were smoldering.

A couple of men rushed up to the guy Vala pointed out and turned him over. He was dead like many of the others, several blast marks across his body. Different teams kept talking or shouting to others as they came across more bodies.

"Any luck on that transponder signal Ford?" Carter asked.

"It must have been damaged." Ford said looking at the device he had that told him to locations of all the SG-1 members who all had tracking devices in their boots. "It's nearby. According to the Sonic Screwdriver, he's somewhere over here."

Daniel wasn't near either of them, not real close that is as he looked near one destroyed tent and noticed a body with his light. He turned the man over slowly.

"I found Bra'tak! He's alive but needs a medic!"

People started rushing over as Mitchell kept looking around and walked up to the General.

"Got something yet General?"

"Guys, I found Bra'tak. The medics are working on him now. He's in rough shape but they think he'll live." Daniel said through his com.

"Good Daniel. I think I'm closing in on Teal'c. Mitchell, keep looking for other survivors." Ford said.

"Sirs, I've came across a lot of bodies." Reynolds said over the line. "I can't make out who may or may not be alive though."

"If you think we need more teams, call the gate Reynolds." Ford said as he was reached into his pocket and then quickly grabbed his com again. "I found Teal'c!"

Teal'c was injured, but thankfully not dead. Laying on his stomach and one arm out above him. Ford got down and used the Sonic Screwdriver to assess his condition before turning him over as Mitchell, Sam and Daniel ran up.

"How is he?" Carter asked.

"He's alive." Ford said removing the healing device from his pocket. "Rather strange I can use this still even with the regeneration."

"You still have Naquada in your system." she said as Ford ran the device over Teal'c.

"Once I have him stabilized better, take me to Bra'tak and then I'll do what I can for the others."

"Don't over tax yourself General. We may need you in a serious pinch." Mitchell said.

"Isn't Vala helping?" Carter asked.

"Yeah, but there is a lot of people." Mitchell said as the medics got Teal'c onto a stretcher.

On that same Jaffa planet where a lot of Jaffa had settled, it was a peaceful and sunny day. The attack not having taken place yet. No real technology present other than the zats and staff weapons, and maybe a few other Jaffa weapons at a armory nearby, but otherwise. Tents were up on the large grassy plains here and there. Children ran around playing as parents went about their business for the day. A few old two wheeled carts were here and there not in current use. A few fire pits as well. In one tent, important talks were going on. About a dozen Jaffa were inside the tent as a discussion took place.

"I am tired of this rhetoric." Nisal said. "How long can we talk of reforming councils and ridiculous trade polices? The Ori are taking our planets by force!"

Teal'c and Bra'tak entered as the young man continued.

"Dividing our people through religious ideology and fear. We, must fight back, now!" he said slapping his open hand a few times.

"We all agree Nisal." Bra'tak said as he stood by the opening and then walked up pointing at the man. "That is why we are here. But entering into a war, without leadership, without proper organization, would merely be a mass suicide."

Teal'c smiled as he watched his dear friend speak. Something outside caught his attention, even though he was not looking that direction. He felt a pull, like danger was in the air, so he turned to look as Bra'tak continued.

"We must learn from our mistakes in overthrowing the Goa'uld. For generations, we have plotted and fought for our emancipation."

Teal'c looked out and glanced around seeing what was disturbing his peace. There was a man, in a long dark cloak walking by, several dozen feet away from the tent he was in. The man patted a child on the head and kept walking as Teal'c looked out further seeing a circular shaped cut that turned into a ugly scar on the left side of the mans face. It started by his nose and curved down across his cheek to go past his eye and just above the eyebrow. The outfit reminded Teal'c of a Jedi outfit, complete with the boots. Except for one problem, he considered this man evil.

"Never once did we plan for what we would do with that freedom after it was ours." Bra'tak kept saying as he looked at the different people around him. "The resulting infighting and weakness after our victory over the Goa'uld is what leads us to this vulnerability at the hands of the Ori now."

Teal'c looked back inside before walking out after the man. He didn't get far when a tent nearby exploded. People started running and more explosions happened, hell breaking loose very quickly.

Teal'c woke up from remembering all that took place and saw the infirmary ceiling above him. The memories had his body sweating and made him thirsty as he glanced around without getting up. Lam was talking to another nurse when she noticed him moving slightly.

"Ah, it is nice to see you conscious again…." she said.

"How long have I been…." he muttered tiredly.

"You've been out quite awhile. If it wasn't for Vala and the General helping with those healing devices on not only you, but others, it might have been longer than two weeks or worse. We managed to stop all the bleeding from whatever it was that caused you to get so many internal injuries. We really don't know what has happened yet, but explosives were used. On the bright side, the General managed to heal your spine so you will be able to fully move around normally again. Everyone will be glad to hear that you are awake. I know one of them has been in here waiting ever since they brought you in. Of course, I don't know where they are right now. If it helps any, Ishta came for a few days and talked to you while you slept. She had to leave about four days ago though."

She looked down seeing he had fallen back asleep. So, she made a call and a three members of the team showed up. Carter was unconsciously leaning against Ford's arm, teal colored suit, while Mitchell was holding himself up against the wall with both hands behind him.

"He was awake for a few minutes. I was telling him some stuff, but I don't know how much he actually heard or will remember." Lam said.

"Does he know about Bra'tak?" Mitchell asked.

"I barely got a chance to tell him what he's been through, or what he's going to have to go through to get back up on his feet, for that matter. I know you healed his spine General, but until he actually gets out of that bed and tried to walk, we don't know anything."

"Understood."

"I understand it more than anyone knows. Been there, done that. Not a good place." Mitchell said patting her on the arm as he started off. "Let me know when he's awake. If he needs to learn to walk again, I can be the best help he'll find for sympathy and understanding."

Sometime later, he awoke again and noticed someone by the bed.

"Hey." Daniel said.

He saw Daniel look at the other side and noticed Val was there too. Carter, Ford and Mitchell walked in at that moment and stood at the end of the bed.

"What has transpired?" Teal'c asked.

"Doctor Lam thinks you need more rest." Daniel said.

"We however think you need to be on your feet and back in fighting form as soon as possible." Vala said cheerfully.

"Tell me." Teal'c stated.

They all knew what he wanted to know, and despite what Lam didn't want him to hear at the moment, they told him anyway.

"We counted 32 dead." Daniel said.

"12 more were critically injured. Vala and I helped the best we could on those. I think six or seven have already went home." Ford said.

Teal'c had a flashback of walking as several explosions happened around him. Women screaming and pain rushed his memories as he recalled his back bleeding from taking a impact at some point.

"Most of the villagers scattered to the hills." Mitchell said.

"When you were late for checking in, we came to investigate." Carter said.

"We can't be sure, but it looks like three separate explosive devices are responsible for the damage." Mitchell said.

"And what of Bra'tak?" Teal'c asked.

"He survived." Daniel stated. "Mostly because of the Ford's intervention with the healing device."

"He did everything he could for everyone that we found still alive, up to the point he exhausted himself and passed out. Took him two days to recover." Carter said.

"Took me one. Must be my youth." Vala said with a playful look at Ford.

He just grunted lightly.

"I wish to see him." Teal'c stated.

"Teal'c, you're not in any real…."

"Mitchell, arguing with him is pointless." Ford said. "He'll just try and go to him on his own. Better we help than let him go when we leave."

"Alright." he muttered. "What do we do then?"

"Get a wheelchair. I'll help him into it."

Lam was looking over a chart next to the bed Bra'tak was in as the door opened and Teal'c came rolling in with Mitchell pushing and Ford behind him.

"General, Colonel…."

"Carolyn, you know Teal'c. It was either tell him no, walk away and he'll get up on his own, or, this." Ford said. "And he'd only get mad if you sedated him."

She sighed and shook her head.

"He's in a coma at the moment Teal'c. Otherwise, he looks like he'll make a full recovery. When he wakes up, that I can't tell you." she said before walking out.

"Hope it helps you Teal'c." Mitchell said patting him on the shoulder before walking out.

"General Carter."

"Yeah T?"

"Stay a moment."

"Sure."

He pushed Teal'c closer as he grabbed Bra'taks hand gently. Flashbacks of the speech Bra'tak was giving before the attack took place and the man he saw went through his head.

"You remembering what happened?" Ford asked seeing it in Teal'c eyes.

"Indeed." he said repeating what he saw up to the explosions happening. "I will need your help Ford Carter. After reading those files you gave us, only you can understand what I must do."

"You do know that others are not going to like this idea?" he asked knowing what Teal'c meant.

"I do not care at this moment. I will however go, with or without your support."

"I didn't say I wouldn't go. I'll be there. As support." he said holding up a hand. "They are your people, so you just tell me when to help and when to stay back."

Teal'c nodded and then had him leave to allow him and Bra'tak a few moments.

Several days later, and he walking with no problems, he was allowed back on light duty. Ford was working with Sam on a project when Teal'c came up wanting to talk to him privately.

"What's up?" he asked as they walked through the hallway.

"I have received intelligence from Jaffa that have close ties to Parnon, the Jaffa that organized the summit. The information I was given tells that a Jaffa named Arkad is responsible for the attack that took place."

"Sounds like you know who he is, especially after what you told me back in the infirmary with that memory."

"Indeed. I do know of him. We once engaged in battle as opposing First Primes."

"Is that distain and disgust I hear?"

"If I was a Klingon, honor would demand his death for his dishonorable deeds he has done in battle."

"That is bad. I guess saying he'd work the Vadar wouldn't be far from the truth either."

"Indeed. Further information leads to the fact it looks like he is slowly and quietly building support for himself as a new leader."

"One that would probably oppose any treaty with the Tauri."

"That would be an inevitable outcome if he took charge. His leadership would deliver the Jaffa nation into the hands of the Ori."

"Well, that means he is a serious threat and we can't have that." Ford stated sternly.

"Yes. He is against any council that would join forces against the Ori. He must be eliminated before he can consolidate his position."

"I see."

"You of all people can understand what I am feeling and what must be done. I ask for your help now in this endeavor."

"No offense Teal'c, but I am behind you one hundred percent on this. However, even if SG-1 wanted to back you up, I doubt General Landry will allow you to go."

"I am aware. General Hammond would have been more understanding on this situation. This is why I ask for your support."

"I'd say lets just go in the T.A.R.D.I.S., but Sam wouldn't like that much. And, we can't use it unless we have the coordinates for the planets needed. It's been awhile and this guy could be anywhere. Which means you may have to talk to a lot of people and go through many gates. And I really have no idea how the T.A.R.D.I.S. would act going through a Stargate. We'll have to go on foot."

"Indeed. The exercise will do us much good."

"Come in." Landry said as the door was knocked on. "General, Teal'c. What's can I help you with?"

"Teal'c got some info on the man behind the attacks at the summit." Ford said as Landry groaned.

"Hold on. I'm guessing you want to go after this man, out of personal revenge?"

"That is one reason General Landry. However, this man, if he gains the support needed, will use the Jaffa army to join with the Ori and attack Earth and any of our allies."

"You're going to go help him no matter what I say?"

"I believe this to be very important. The rest of SG-1 can stay behind so they don't get into trouble. Say they followed your orders for them not to go even though we did against. Teal'c can't get into much trouble and I…."

"Don't get into any?" he asked sarcastically. "I'm not going to go totally gray, I'll go bald with the stress first. Fine, officially, I am totally against this course of action. I don't want you going, but it is obvious I can't stop you. Since you'll quit and leave if I say no."

"Indeed."

"I expect a full report from both of you when this is over. This will also be going on both your records."

"I understand." Teal'c stated as Ford nodded.

"I have a few things to grab. You pack whatever you need." Ford said as they left. "I also got to tell Sam."

He nodded and went on his way.

"Are you sure about this General?"

"Better than him going off and getting killed and we never know where or when. Besides, I understand why he wants to do this. Seriously, we don't need the Jaffa against us again."

"True. I'd rather he not go at all, but at least he won't be alone."

The rest of the team was there as Teal'c had finished packing.

"We can't talk you out of this at all can we?" Mitchell asked.

"No. I must do this."

"In that case, good luck Teal'c. You know you can just call us, and hopefully we'll be right there." Daniel said.

"Teal'c, you better come back to us." Carter said holding his arm.

He gave her a look and realized something.

"He has not spoken to you yet then?"

The other four sighed, groaned or shook their heads.

"I should have realized he was going to go with." Carter grumbled. "Why didn't…."

"There you are. I thought you were in our lab. I'm leaving the T.A.R.D.I.S., just in case you end up needing her for something. If it gets bad, you can locate me through it and make one trip to us. I'll have my phone, but set on vibrate." Ford said walking up.

"I guess it would be pointless to say come back safely?"

"I can't die, but the thought is appreciated. If anything does happen, the phone will send out a signal and K-9 will let you know."

"Still doesn't help me not worry. But you two are the biggest muscle in the team and you have most of the smarts in the team so, this quest should go easily." she said.

"Come back safely Teal'c. He can't die, you can." Vala said kissing him on the cheek.

Walter was dialing the gate as the two stood at the bottom of the ramp. The rest of SG-1 was standing in the control room watching. Teal'c was in a Jaffa robe with the chain mail underneath, a knife and his staff weapon. Plus a sash across the right side of his chest like that of Scottish people. Ford was in his coat, zipped up and his large sword from the Final Fantasy Advent Children on his back. Under that was a midnight black suit. Another Jaffa robe was over his arm that he was going to put on later, no sash.

"At least Ford said he'd keep in touch when he could." Carter muttered.

"You mean give reports or just keep in touch with you and Sally?" Mitchell asked.

"Both."

"I offered to go, but Teal'c said no." Vala muttered.

"Ford must have asked…" Daniel began.

"Nope. Teal'c asked him because he was the only one that could understand what he was going through. Reading the General's real file and such…" Mitchell said as they nodded in understanding.

And then they walked through, Ford giving a quick wave before he entered the event horizon.

On the planet were the attack took place, Ford was helping different people with things, such as rebuilding. Teal'c helped bury a few people and placed carved sticks on their graves. He was tying a leather string to one stick as a little girl walked up.

"My father says the sticks honor those who have died."

"Indeed." he said as the Jaffa girl of maybe 6 walked in front of him.

"Do you know who did this?"

"Yes."

"My father says they are cowards. That they must pay with their lives."

"They will." he said with a small smile as he got up and touched her shoulder. "I promise you."

He walked off past the many sticks, some that had colored ribbons on them, and decided it was time to move on.

Daniel was reading a book next to Bra'taks bed when the man woke up and looked around. Then he tried to breath and talk but had trouble because of the tube down his throat.

"Um," Daniel said noticing as he wheezed. "Help!"

Bra'tak didn't move as Daniel rushed to the door.

"Help! We need some help in here!"

Lam and a nurse came running past quickly as they put gloves on.

"He's awake."

"That's a good to hear." Lam said as she put her stethoscope on. "Let's extubate. Master Bra'tak, just relax. It may be a little difficult for you to speak right away. We're going to check you out real quick and then remove the tube."

They had went to another planet, which had wooden houses and homes in a forested area. Sort of like days back in the horse drawn buggy era on Earth. But there was a Stargate nearby and people did use it every so often. Such as Jaffa and other traders. The both went into a building that was sort of like a pub, but more of an inn. Patrons were at different tables and the man that Teal'c was looking for was sitting alone at one of the square tables in the middle of the room. The man, long brown haired and a goatee with mustache, in black leather pants, a dirty brown shirt with some classy look and small leather spiked gauntlets on his arms. He was eating something from a wooden bowl and tearing bread off from one next to it. A small cup was by a metal pitcher. A few other's looked at them as they walked through the crowd, both in robes and came before the table. Teal'c sat across from the man and nodded at Ford, who sat on his right. Though Teal'c didn't have his weapon on him, Ford still had his sword, which was covered by the hood.

"Go away." he said as Teal'c and Ford sat anyway. "Hmm. Teal'c of the Tauri. And…his friend."

Not many people knew of Ford's, change as it were. So very few people actually knew how he now looked. Unless they saw who he was before and looked closely now. Seeing as this man didn't know who he was, Teal'c felt it better if no one knew at the moment and conveyed the thought with a simple look Ford got instantly.

"Good friend." Ford said raising a finger. "Big difference."

"Whatever." the man said shrugging as he went back to eating. "I know who you are Jaffa."

"What do you know of the bombing at Dar Eshkalon?" Teal'c asked.

"Other than a bunch of Jaffa died?"

Teal'c narrowed his eyes as the man dropped his spoon.

"Don't expect me to shed a tear for you and your kind." he said with anger and distain. "I don't care what you and your Tauri friends have done. You Jaffa enslaved my people for generations. And don't tell me you were only following the orders of your masters. You lived like kings compared to us, and don't think that we will soon forget! I rejoice."

Teal'c only glanced at Ford with his eyes and Ford shrugged indifferently. The man picked up his goblet and shook the drink.

"Rejoice at the sight of you murdering each other like the fools that you are."

Ford sat back slightly as Teal'c tossed the table aside and grabbed the man by his throat forcing him into the wall. Several women gasped while most people watched or got up.

"Tell me what you know." Teal'c demanded as he kept his hand on the throat.

"You think that anything that you do at this point really matters? We are all fodder for the Ori."

"I saw a man with a scar across his face at Dar Eshkalon. He purchased explosives on this planet."

"You want to buy something from me? I think we can work out a deal. I can pretty much get you anything you want."

"I want a name and where I can find him."

"Or what? You kill me, you get nothing."

"You underestimate the satisfaction I will get from your suffering." he said tightening his grip. "However, I have a better idea. My friend has a very interesting torture technique."

Ford walked up as Teal'c motioned and gave a short explanation of what he would do if the man didn't talk. Even showed one of the needles used.

The tubes were taken out and after a bit of time, Daniel was able to talk to Bra'tak, telling him that the two left in search of info and a particular man.

"He was a student of mine at one time." Bra'tak stated as he stay laid in the bed. "I knew from the beginning that there was something wrong with him."

Daniel nodded slightly.

"I underestimated him once." Bra'tak stated forcefully as he looked at Daniel. "Never again. Teal'c and I both faced him in battle many times, and many times we managed to defeat his armies, but he always escaped."

"Yeah, sounds like a real charmer." Daniel said sarcastically.

"He is without honor."

"Teal'c mentioned that too along with some Klingon reference. Something tells me that Teal'c has a very personal grudge against this particular Jaffa. He hasn't said anything, though we didn't really ask…"

"I assume that Teal'c has never spoken of his mother."

"No. His wife and son, I think his father at one time too. We know she is dead."

"Teal'cs mother was killed, shortly after Teal'c commanded an embarrassing victory over Arkad's fleet. The murder was never resolved. For no apparent reason, someone slipped into her village and slit her throat in the night."

"I see." Daniel said taking a breath. "Teal'c believes that Arkad killed her in revenge for being defeated in that battle."

"It was never proven, but he believes it." Bra'tak stated with a nod.

"Strange that he never mentioned something like this before. He did so back with that Goa'uld when there was the gate problem he was stuck in. First time Doctor McKay showed up." he said as Bra'tak nodded at the memory. "Why didn't he go after Arkad immediately after her death?"

"He was still First Prime of Apophis at the time. Teal'cs actions were chosen for him." Bra'tak stated as Daniel nodded in understanding. "Now, given what Arkad has done, Teal'c will stop at nothing to bring an end to him."

"No surprise there." Daniel said running his eyes under his glasses. "On the plus side, he personally asked Ford to go with so, I guess we shouldn't worry to much."

"Arkad will use dirty and un-honorable tactics to gain any upper hand in battle. We can only hope and pray they will see through these traps."

"Considering Ford's past, I don't doubt it."

Landry was talking with Colonel Reynolds when Carter walked in through the door by the office into the briefing room. Reynolds was still in his desert/jungle camo's.

"Where's your confirmation coming from?" Landry asked.

"SG-22 recon sir." Reynolds said.

"What's going on sir?" Carter asked as Mitchell came in behind her.

"I thought you two should hear this."

"I just heard from Ford a few minutes ago. He didn't go into details, but said they were heading off to another location, I think through another Stargate to go find someone else with more info."

"Anything else?"

"The rest was personal. I heard Teal'c said it was time for them to leave so he hung up shortly after."

"At least we know they are okay. Reynolds…"

"Yes sir. We've been maintain contact with anti-Ori rebels on P8T-365."

"That's a predominantly Jaffa planet that's already succumbed to Ori control, right?" Carter asked as Mitchell was getting a cup of coffee off the table near the door.

"Right. This group we've been monitoring opposes Ori occupation, quietly so far, but is keeping us apprised of their intentions. Anyway, they say several hundred Jaffa, including a few of their inside men, are regularly being ferried by mothership to another planet to mine raw naquada."

"That makes sense." Mitchell said after taking a drink. "The Ori warriors will be able to make ships, weapons, Supergates."

"Yes, but here is the interesting part. The Jaffa say this is not being done for the Ori. At least, not directly."

"That is interesting." Carter muttered. "Who's behind it and why don't the Ori know?"

"There's a Jaffa named Arkad, who has muscled his way into a relationship with the Ori. Apparently he said he'll police the planet and get even more Jaffa planets to fall in line." Reynolds said as he saw the two SG-1 members nod at each other.

"Well, that's in line with the intel we have." Mitchell said dropping a folder on the table.

"Yes. It seems that Arkad is planning a fairly major play to impress his new friends. Word's floating around that this weapons grade naquada, is being stockpiled in various locations for use by Arkad, in a coordinated attack on Earth."

"That will never happen." Carter muttered. "They'd have to get past a very powerful shield first."

"I have an idea." Mitchell said as he tugged lightly on her shoulder. "We'll have to get hold of the General though. Send a text message to him that says….."

It was night on a Jaffa controlled planet. Different Jaffa walked around with their hoods covering their heads. Everyone of them that were out and about holding a torch as they walked around, either by tents, through tents or away from the settlement. All but one Jaffa was walking around that way. This Jaffa was in a black robe, hood covering his head as he headed for his destination. The man who bombed the Jaffa summit still looked like a Dark Jedi and definitely had the attitude to be one, but thankfully not the powers as Teal'c had stated to Ford at one point after the capture of man. The same man, walked into the tent and removed his hood. Hearing movement, he turned to see Teal'c come out of the dark part of the tent and punch him dead in the face before he could pull his knife.

"Impressive Teal'c."

"We must hurry."

"I'll carry him. You are still recovering somewhat and I'd rather not have Lam yell at me for not helping it along."

He nodded and they left quickly. Out in the woods, quite a ways from the settlement, they set up camp. A very nice fire was going, though the meal wasn't that great. Ford didn't bring anything to cook and they had already eaten what stuff he did make when they left. The man they captured was sitting upon a big dirt covered stump. His hands tied behind up around a small tree and his feet tied to a stick on the ground. Dried blood coming from his mouth along with his left ear. Teal'c was sitting on a log near the unconscious man as Ford was sitting across from him looking at the dagger part of his sword.

"A most impressive weapon Ford Carter. Seven blades in one." Teal'c stated as he glanced at the other blades sticking out of the ground by Ford.

"I thought it cool too. Which is why I had Thor make me one out of Adamantium. This one is made of stainless steel, crafted by a master sword smith in Japan. He was actually retired, but I gave him a good dollar figure and this is the result. Love time travel. I went back a couple years, talked him into making five sets, and then told him I'd be back on the date we left Stargate Command for this mission. I had just returned when you were talking to Sam. That man and his family will be living in retirement for a long time."

"Hmm. You had five sets made in case you lost or damaged one or more of the blades?"

"Yes. Even though we have that device Merlin used to create that weapon, it takes a lot of work and patience to make even a simple item. It took me five minutes just to create a Adamantium bullet, not the casing, just the bullet."

"How did you create the program to build the bullet?"

"It has a scanning system in it as well. Myrddin had to eat and drink at some point. For him, it was probably a quick few seconds to create a simple meal and drink when he got hungry. In my case, I'm not use to using the machine and even though I can read the language, working it is harder than it looks. Scanning some object isn't all that hard, making a copy, oh boy. What a headache."

"I see. Would we not be able to create a fully powered ZPM as well then?"

"Yes. And we tried with the one we have currently that is limited in power. Just that one alone, K-9 says would take me three to four weeks, non stop creating. I have the time, but not the patience to stand there or sit for that long. He said it would be much longer, in the terms of almost a year because of bodily function needs. Which also include exercise."

"So you gave up?"

"No. I do a little here and there. Haven't done it in a week or so. K-9 says the time limit would be greatly increased if the ZPM was at full power though." he said flipping the blade down and then back up.

"Is there another purpose for the smaller blade since it folds?"

"For more stability in the hilt, though that is rather large to begin with. No offense Teal'c, but I think we've let him sleep long enough. I don't mind being here and helping you, the bonding time is really cool, however…."

"I understand more than you know Ford Carter. Ry'ack was once a mere child I held in my arms as well. The human expression is very wise, cherish the time you have with them, because one day, they shall be gone on their own."

"I think that's how it goes. But you got the point across very well. I got a quick question though, why are you calling me Ford Carter and not General Carter?"

"You are currently not on duty, and I am currently for this endeavor, team leader."

"I can see the logic in that. How do you want to wake him? You can poke him with one of my blades…." Ford said waving at the swords only to drop his hand as Teal'c took a recently burned stick out and touched it to a open spot on the guys left arm where a tattoo of some sort was once. "That works too."

"There is damage and pain, but no blood loss." Teal'c stated as the man woke up grunting in pain.

The man looked around and saw the two of them. Teal'c poked at the fire as Ford was putting the sword back together. He grunted and spit out the blood in his mouth before speaking.

"Torture me all you two want. I will tell you nothing." he spat defiantly.

"Should I just get the needles out now?" Ford asked as Teal'c looked at the man then at Ford.

"Not at present." he said tossing the stick in. "You may hide yourself among humans and pretend to be one, however, we know you are Jaffa. In front of you is your symbiote."

"I serve the Ori. When I die, I will ascend and join them in everlasting glory."

"Then you are a fool." Ford muttered as he put the dagger in last and swung it around a few times. Seeing nothing falling apart or out, he laid it on the log he was sitting on. "It is all a lie."

"You will not convince me otherwise son of the evil ones."

"Adria must not like saying my name." Ford muttered as Teal'c nodded.

"It is most unfortunate that you refuse to believe the truth. I have medicine that would save your life, should you tell us what we wish to know." Teal'c said as he looked at the Tretonin vial he pulled from his robe.

"Never." he said spitting blood off to the side again.

"Then there are some thing that you should know. The Ori do not ascend their followers." he said standing up and walking around the fire. "Arkad is a coward who will die by my hand."

The Jaffa grunted and looked away as Teal'c now stood in front of him.

"Also, a very powerful explosive device has been placed within your symbiote pouch. It is set to detonate within a matter of moments." Teal'c said as the man looked down at his abdomen, only to see his shirt. "It is the same explosive that you used to kill 10 warriors, 15 innocent bystanders and two children who gathered for a peaceful summit."

"They, like you two, were sinners all, who chose the path of evil." he spat.

"I believe it is time to leave Ford Carter." Teal'c said.

"Right. We can get info elsewhere." Ford said putting his sword on his shoulder as they slowly walked away. "I got 12 seconds until boom."

Teal'c only glanced to see Ford looking at his watch.

"Ten seconds."

"Why are you leaving?"

"I don't think we'd really like to be around when you go off. Rather messy, ugly and I'd rather not get sick." Ford said as he turned to talk to the man and then turned around quickly to walk faster away with Teal'c.

The man kept trying to get free as he screamed loudly and then exploded into a large fireball.

"Glad we ate before doing that."

Back at the SGC, morning had arrived and people were coming to work as usual. Vala, Sam and Daniel were in his office talking about the info they had learned. Ford called back later that night knowing when she was home and talked to her for a few minutes before talking to Sally and then saying goodnight. Other than telling her they had roughed up one guy for info and blew up the guy who attacked the summit, he wasn't able to tell them much else. Sam did tell them what Reynolds said though before saying goodnight and wishing he was in bed instead of her sleeping alone. Sally was worried about Ford being gone and saw Sam worried so she crawled into bed near her to keep her company that night. So, while the two were off getting more info and talking to people, SG-1 was planning.

"So, what does this Arkad have to gain by attacking Earth?" Vala asked. "And can we defend the planet?"

"If he attacks, we may have no choice, depending on the fleet size, to engage the T.A.R.D.I.S. shield around the planet. Push it out far enough, no one will notice, too close, and everyone will see it." Carter said. "From there, the Odyssey can destroy them from behind the shield. Or at least try until they run out of ammo."

"I'm guessing that from the intel we got from Colonel Reynolds, he's doing it to increase his standing with the Ori." Mitchell said.

"It could also be revenge. A lot of Jaffa blame the Tauri for the destruction of Dakara." Daniel stated.

"The Ori could also have ordered the attack too." Carter said.

"They must know that an attack on Earth would be extremely risky because of the Antarctic defense system." Mitchell said.

"Unfortunately, we have no way of detecting much less stopping a cloaked cargo ship." Carter said.

"Can't the T.A.R.D.I.S. do that?" Vala asked. "It did it before with that reunion me and Cam went to."

"I forgot about that. I can call mom and dad and they can take K-9 there…" Carter began when the alarms went off.

"Unscheduled off world activation!" Walter said over the speakers.

"Let's go see what this is." Mitchell said. "Sam, make that call as we go."

She pulled her T.A.R.D.I.S. cell phone quickly.

"Receiving a transmission sir." Walter said.

"On screen." Landry said as he walked up.

The different monitors around them changed and showed a Jaffa looking at them from some unknown location. He wasn't using the head armor, but he had the rest of it on, though you only saw from his chest up.

"Warriors of the Tauri, I bid you greetings." Arkad said as SG-1 entered the room.

"This is General Landry, of Stargate Command. To whom am I speaking?"

"Where is this General Carter I have heard of?"

"He's not available at the moment. And can't be reached at this time either in case you are about to ask." Landry said. "How about your name now?"

"Very well. The message is not only for him but everyone else. My name is Arkad. I am the leader of the Illac Renin."

"That's Ancient. Loosely translated, it means, kingdom of the path." Daniel said.

"What is it you want?" Landry asked.

"I wish to be granted safe passage to your planet, so we may meet in person and discuss certain issues that concern us both. By now, you have undoubtedly learned of a plot to brazenly strike at your planet in a most cowardly manner. I want to offer my assistance, as I believe I am uniquely capable of stopping this most dishonorable attack."

Bra'tak was informed of the news, and though he was relatively in very good health, Lam had him staying in the bed for another night, just in case. He did not find the news all that surprising. SG-1 was pretty sure that Arkad was shoveling a massive pile of bull at them, probably as a diversion.

"He no doubt fed you the information about the attack so that he could claim to be the one who could prevent it."

"Yeah." Daniel said as Lam stayed on the other side of the bed watching. "The rest of us agreed rather quickly he was feeding us a big pile of crap. The thing that has us stumped is, why? And, given the very real threat that is out there, those ever so lovely I.O.A. people wants to hear what he has to say."

"He is a serpent. Worse than one. You must not trust him at all." Bra'tak stated.

"We'll let you know how it goes."

"I already know. Nothing good will come of it."

"Might get Teal'c and Ford to come home sooner. Teal'c is out there after this man."

"Some good could come out of this then."

Two guards followed Arkad up the stairs behind General Landry as they entered the briefing room. SG-1 was there at the table waiting to hear the rest of the crap he had to spew. Though Mitchell, Vala and Daniel had no weapons on them, Carter still had the gun on her hip, with the holster open. Hank wasn't all the thrilled when he first found out that she was carrying it around, but considering the circumstances and the trouble SG-1 could get into, even on base, plus the added fact Ford ordered her to wear it, Hank relented. SG-1 stayed on the side of the table with their backs to the gate, all standing and/or leaning on the backs of the chairs.

"Arkad, I'm sure you know of SG-1. At least the ones present at the moment." Landry said. "Lieutenants Colonels, Mitchell and Carter, Doctor Daniel Jackson and Vala Mal Doran."

"It's an honor to finally meet you all in person." he said from the other side of the table. "I have looked forward to this day for sometime."

"Let's sit down, shall we?" Landry said as he took his seat at the head. Carter, Daniel, and then Vala sat as Arkad sat opposite of Carter. Mitchell walked around and sat next to the man. "It is a shame Teal'c is not here. We have not had the pleasure of seeing each other in many years. I was also hoping to see this famous Ford Carter as well."

"Truthfully, we couldn't guarantee your safety if Teal'c was here." Landry said.

"I think we should include Ford in that one." Carter said.

"Surely Teal'c does not hold a grudge for past battles we once waged, in the name of former false gods? As for your General, I cannot see what I could have done to even make him want to harm me. I have yet to even be on the same planet he has even been. At least to my knowledge anyway. None of the Jaffa I have ever commanded were in battle with him or SG-1 as far as I know."

"Oh, I think it has more to do with recent events. The General is backing up Teal'c one hundred percent. That's why he doesn't like you." Mitchell said.

"Hmm. I can only assume you are refereeing the to tragedy at Dar Eshkalon?"

"Yeah, in which your good buddy Teal'c came this close to dying." Mitchell said pinching his fingers close together. "However, that didn't happen, mostly because the General was able to use a healing device to help him a the few others he could that survived."

"I helped." Vala stated.

"Sorry, she helped too." Mitchell said.

"Bra'tak sends his regards as well. He also needed some of that healing used on him too. And I'm sure that he won't mind me speaking for him when I say that he'd love to stab you in the eye with a really big knife." Daniel said.

Arkad laughed lightly.

"30 other Jaffa weren't nearly as lucky as they were." Carter said.

"You must understand, all of you, that there are those out there who would have me falsely accused of such, cowardly actions."

"So, you're saying you had nothing to do with it?" Daniel asked, obviously not believing a word Arkad said.

"I fully admit I was against the gathering. But those in attendance were assembling to form a council that would directly oppose my campaign to lead all Jaffa."

"Into the arms of the Ori." Vala stated.

"The reason we fought for freedom is so we could believe in what we want and not be subjugated by anyone." Arkad stated forcefully.

"And you don't see the Ori as forcing their beliefs on you?" Daniel asked.

"I see Origin as a organized religion and the source of salvation all the Jaffa has always sought."

"I think we are getting a little off point here." Landry said.

"I agree. I assure you, no matter our philosophical differences, I would never authorize the type of attack that befell the summit at Dar Eshkalon."

"But, you just happen to know some guys, less respectable, less honorable than yourself." Mitchell said with a hint of sarcasm. "Who took matters into their own hands."

"As a matter of fact, yes. And I have learned of similar attacks against your own planet being planned by a radical sect of Jaffa, who see the Tauri as a powerful force in the galaxy, who oppose our peaceful movement toward embracing Origin."

"And you can stop them?" Daniel asked. "I can see it from their point of view. You and your group may join with the Ori, however, they will eventually order you to attack us because their laws state, either join the Ori or die. Eventually you and them would have to make a choice. Fight us, or them."

"On that day, we will make our choice. However, all indications have shown they still continue to use their own troops to enforce their will. I have yet to hear of one Jaffa being used in their service to attack others. Gerak I do not count. As for my people, I believe I can get them to stop their tactics. I can use my influence and resources to choke off their ability to function effectively."

"Or, you can fund them. And allow them to do your dirty work for you while you take the political high road." Landry stated forcefully. "Let's cut the crap! We all know you're here for one reason. Make your demands."

"I have no demands. I understand your mistrust, but please, I implore you. Believe me when I say, I will use all of my vast resources at my disposal to thwart this most heinous threat to your world." he said as convincingly as possible. "All I ask in return, is you all allow the Jaffa people to believe in what they choose. If they decide to follow in the ways of Illac Renin, that should be up to them. If you feel is it your responsibility to do battle with the Ori, on behalf of the humans of this galaxy, then that is your prerogative."

"So, stay out of your way and you won't attack us?" Landry asked as he got up quickly with the rest of SG-1 doing so with him.

"General, my fleet is more powerful than any Goa'uld has ever marshaled by ten fold." Arkad stated as he stood up at the same time. "If I was to attack this planet, it would not be in the manner currently being planned by these radicals. And it would not end well for you."

Carter scoffed audibly.

"Sorry sir."

"I already know about our secret weapon, remember? I did see it." Landry stated.

"Most if all of the Jaffa already know about the functioning Ancient weapons platform you have that destroyed Anubis's fleet."

"That's not the secret weapon the General here was talking about." Mitchell said. "And comparing it to that weapons platform, our special secret is in a totally different league. Hell, it has its own ball park."

The reference was lost on Arkad, but he could see they weren't kidding about having a new powerful weapon and or item.

"Whatever it is you have, eventually you will have to show it. And the news about it will spread quickly. However, I do not care what you have." he said as sincerely as possible. However, inside, he was very worried.

"I would like to believe that despite our differences, we could coexist peacefully. Your planet and the people here have played an instrumental role in the very reshaping of the nature of the galaxy. It is no wonder you have whatever this new secret is. I merely wish to avoid any unpleasant conflicts, between our two respective nations before they arise." he said looking between the group and Landry. "I will now take my leave."

No one stopped him or said anything as the two guards walked him down to the gate room.

"I don't know about how Ford is going to feel about them knowing about the fact we have that special ship you two have." Landry said.

"Well, they technically don't know anything really. Arkad can say whatever he wants, but until someone comes along and actually tries something sir, we are safe." Carter said.

"This might turn out to be a very good thing actually." Daniel said. "I doubt he got the full meaning of what Mitchell said, but I'm sure he got enough to understand that the weapon in Antarctica was nothing compared to what we now have."

"We may not have a full amount of drones for the chair, but we have the greatest defense system possible." Mitchell said.

"From what little I gathered about this shield system, it's not possible to allow anything in, or out." Landry said.

"That was until we went over it more thoroughly sir." Carter said. "A little work here and there allowed us to fix that."

"In that case, we can only hope we don't have to put it to the test. Otherwise, the world will know the truth about what really happens. And I'd rather not see martial law take place along with the other things you two saw and learned in that other universe." Landry said.

The two went back and talked to the man at the pub from before. It was night and the moonlight was shining through a upper window in the mans house. He was looking out that window, having little choice since he was tied heavily to a chair in that direction. Ford was looking out at the moon, his robe hanging off the handle of the sword on his back while Teal'c was trying to get info.

"I told you where to find Bak'al." Lizan said. "He's the Jaffa scum that I sold the explosives to. That's all I know."

"I do not believe you." Teal'c stated as he glanced out the window as well.

"I think he gave in too easily when I told him what I could do with those needles. Maybe this time I could stick him with one..."

"As an example…" Teal'c said with a small nod.

"I'm not lying! I don't know anything about Arkad!!"

"You despise Jaffa!" Teal'c stated loudly as he walked over and leaned into the mans face. "Why do you protect him?!"

"I am not afraid to die."

"We have no intention of killing you. Not until you tell me where to find Arkad."

"Why should I tell you two anything know that death is my reward?"

"That may sound sensible for the moment, but believe me, you will change you mind. And very soon I believe."

"I'll get the candles. You remove his pants…." Ford said reaching into his coat.

SG-1 stayed in the briefing room as Landry got on the phone. Arkad had already been sent back through the gate as they waited. Carter tried to call Ford, but he didn't pick up. And sending a text message only went to his mail.

"The I.O.A. is taking the threat against Earth very seriously." Landry said as he came out of the office.

"So, what do they want us to do?" Mitchell asked.

"Nothing as far as that ass Arkad is concerned."

"Sir?" Carter asked confused as she also noticed the rest of the team having on their face.

"They want us to leave him alone for now. Let him go about his business." Landry said sitting down.

"We're suppose to let him muscle us?" Mitchell asked sitting down as well.

"Obviously, we need to assess his capability, determine if these threats are credible and who's really behind them. If we can prove that Arkad does pose a direct threat to our security….."

"I'm sorry sir. We're suppose to what? Find WMDs in his back pocket?" Mitchell asked while crossing his arms.

"Right at the moment, we need to play the intelligence game. General Carter is not here and you all can't use the full capabilities of that machine without him, correct?" Landry asked looking more at Carter and the rest. She nodded. "Until we know more, we don't want to get into an all out war with an enemy that could, possibly, inflict severe damage on us. Or worse, do nothing and subject the world to the real knowledge of what is going on out there in the universe and under this mountain. Which would probably lead to mass rioting and hysteria."

"I understand sir." Mitchell said.

"Good."

"We'll get right on it sir." Carter said getting ready to get up.

"I have other teams getting ready for that Colonel. Right now I have another mission for SG-1. Before Arkad came here, we had no real problems with what Teal'c is currently doing. However, now that he has came to us, and left, if the two find and attack him, we could be looking a retribution from one or many parties."

"Others might think that the two of them could be out there on our behalf, even though they are doing this solo and basically without permission." Daniel said.

"Exactly."

"You want SG-1 to go find and stop them both before they kill him." Carter said.

"The I.O.A. is very adamant that Earth, and specifically the SGC, take no action against Arkad. I have been charged with ordering you to find those two, and stop them both, at all costs." Landry said as he rubbed his hands nervously.

"If I can get him to pick up his damned phone, I can stop Ford." she said digging hers from her pocket.

She did get through and explained everything. Teal'c, almost tossed the phone away. Seeing as the phone was pretty much irreplaceable, Ford kept it from being destroyed and told Teal'c he would honor the agreement to follow him to the end of this, vendetta. Seeing as Ford promised her he would do his best to not take any real action against Arkad, he could not make the same promise for Teal'c. And then he hung up and turned the phone off per Teal'cs request. Though all he really did was turn it to alert him to any text messaging. She passed the message along and Landry shook his head, telling them to go stop the both of them anyway. So now, they were all flying through hyperspace on the Odyssey. K-9 was in the T.A.R.D.I.S keeping a watch on the skies and was to put the shield up in case any ship that shouldn't came along. And to alert her through the phone. A upgrade from the T.A.R.D.I.S. was done to her scanner to allow her to better refine her scanning abilities with the device. Carter walked into one of the armories and locker type rooms on the ship as she put the device into pants pocket while the rest of the group was getting ready. Mitchell was strapping his nine mill to his leg while Daniel was still in a locker as Vala was finishing tying her right boot on.

"Hey, no one really thinks that Akrad gave the SGC the whereabouts of his home base of operations out of diplomatic courtesy?" Vala asked.

"You think he did it to draw us into a set up?" Carter asked as she got her vest on.

"I doubt that. It's more than likely that he knew that if anyone was determined enough to find him, they could, and he wanted to make sure we'd be blamed." Daniel said as he walked over to grab a gun off the rack. "In the event of an attack against him. I wouldn't be surprised if he already knows Teal'c and Ford are looking for him already."

"Speaking of determined." Mitchell said as was getting ammo for the PC-90 he had clipped to his vest. "Anyone think about what sort of speech they are going to give to Teal'c?"

They all looked at each other a moment as Mitchell put a clip in.

"Ford will back us up when we find them. If anything, I know he'll listen to me." Carter said.

"Are you sure that having Teal'c and the General fight is a good idea?" Mitchell asked. "From what info we got on Teal'c and this vendetta revenge thing, stopping him would be like trying to stop a…..um…"

"Lost the rest of your statement that quick?" Carter asked.

"I can't come up with anything. We may just end up having to stun Teal'c and hope he gets over it."

"Yeah, that will go over well." Daniel muttered. "Not."

A glider passed over a lake and a couple Jaffa were by the lake shore where the Stargate was on the planet. Trees grew around the lake and in the distance, the top of a Goa'uld mothership showed above the tree line. It wasn't a very sunny day, a bit on the cloudy side, chance of rain. Somewhere in that forest, in a open area that was traveled a lot, SG-1 and Reynolds team beamed in.

"Odyssey, this is Mitchell, we are down." he reported. "All right, everyone knows what to do."

The two teams spilt up and headed out.

"Ford turned off his locator beacon on his watch. I don't know where he is." Carter muttered.

"Can you trace it with that Sonic device? Either through his cell phone or his watch or his Sonic device?"

"I could try." she said as she pulled the Sonic Screwdriver out.

As she went about working on that, plus directing Mitchell, the group set up field generators and trip sensors. She told them it was probably a bad idea since Ford might notice them and if he did, he'd turn them off most likely. Unless Teal'c destroyed them first.

Carter and Mitchell sat behind a couple of large tree trunks and kept watch.

"You seem pretty sure about this plan."

"One way or the other, we know they are coming. And the General is packing that enormous sword. It has to be making some noise, even it if it resting on his back. Never know, he might be clearing a path with it and we'll all hear it. Knowing Teal'c, he'll want the element of surprise so they'll both come in a cloaked cargo ship and have to come this way to sneak in the back way. We already know the gate is guarded."

"This is Ford we are talking about that is helping him. They might just go through the front gates and take them head on."

"There is that. But Akrad could also take off with that ship before they get there."

"Yeah, the back way sounds like something easier." she muttered as she kept working on her cell phone. "At least his phone is still receiving text messages."

Daniel and Vala were in a different area, keeping watch behind a fallen tree that was covered in moss.

"You know, Bra'tak seems to think that if it suits Arkad to attack Earth, he'll do so no matter what his agreement is with us." Vala said.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he did. It's a fifty-fifty thing. He may not show up because of our secret weapon, however, he may send a few ships to find out exactly what it is and once he finds out, either bring in the rest of his fleet or withdraw." Daniel said.

"Maybe he didn't want us coming after him yet until he was sure he could attack Earth with enough forces to ensure his victory and gain him that higher status with the Ori."

"There's that."

"Why don't we just let Teal'c kill him anyway? Seeing as Ford is helping him, we could say he stopped us, zatted perhaps and they continued on. He's done things before that the I.O.A. and a few others back home hate and despise him for, what's one more act against their advice and orders."

"True. But if the attack is real, Arkad is the only one that knows about the locations on Earth and when the attack is about to take place. He's more valuable alive then dead right now. Even though he wants us and Earth out of the picture."

"But the T.A.R.D.I.S. will detect any ships that fly near Earth's airspace. Any cloaked ship with explosives will be easy to find quickly and once they land, we pop in, or transport in as those two would say, stop the enemy and grab the bombs."

"I really need to pay more attention to their scientific explanations on that thing. We do have better things to do than go after people that are threatening to blow up the planet, or at least cause enough damage to cause problems. It would be easier to just capture him and get the answers."

"Knowing what little we know and saw, I doubt he's going to talk. Ford could do it though. Might have to resort to those methods we read about."

"Somehow, I don't think Teal'c would allow that seeing as he'd want that, dare I say, pleasure."

Ford and Teal'c did come by a cloaked cargo ship and did see the Odyssey in high orbit. They also knew the location of the team. Ford had tossed aside the robe while Teal'c changed into full Jaffa armor.

"I do not believe they are here to help us in this endeavor."

"They are here to stop us. Sam has sent me several text messages. Had we stayed at the base, Arkad would have came to us."

"Hmm. It is unfortunate we cannot use the T.A.R.D.I.S. to go back and make sure we stayed at the base."

"You are beginning to understand the problems with time travel a lot better than most people. I'm impressed Teal'c." Ford said as Teal'c nodded with a smile. "What do you want to do? Go through that area like we planned and set off whatever traps they may have, or go around?"

Outside the ship, Arkad was in a large room where training took place and prayer. A large mat was on the floor with a weapons rack nearby holding a variety of poles and swords. A thin table, close to the ground with a cloth over it held candles on top that he was currently lighting. It was inset into the wall where the symbol for Origin was above it. After lighting the candles, he knelt down in prayer.

"It could take hours before they show up. I can tell you Ford is here, but the location is still a no." she said putting the Sonic Screwdriver away and her cell. "I'm getting nowhere and I'd rather not break it."

"It's just a waiting game then. I doubt they'd attack at night though."

"There is a chance they have already killed Akrad too."

"Half of SG-3 is watching the gate. We'll get some activity one way or another."

"I just realized they haven't check in, in a while."

"Colonel Reynolds, come in." Mitchell said. "SG-3, you missed your scheduled check in. Please respond."

She started to get up as Mitchell did.

"I'll check it out. Stay here."

"You sure I shouldn't go? If you do encounter them…."

"I'm team leader, so he has to listen. If anything, I'll tell the General you said to follow my orders or else you'd have him sleeping outside the house for a week."

"He might believe that."

Mitchell slowly crawled along in a knelt position until he got to Reynolds location and found them both on the ground, unconscious. Since they had no signs of injury, he figured they were both zatted.

"Hey, somebody got to Baker and Reynolds. I'm going to guess they were zatted since I see no injuries and all their stuff is still here." he said into his com.

He stood up slowly and looked around.

"Hey Teal'c, General! We know you are out there! I have no idea what you two are thinking, but we are here to help!"

Teal'c started to raise his zat from their hidden location nearby.

"What are you doing?" Ford hissed as he pushed the zat down. "Bad enough I let you shoot Reynolds and Baker. Now you want to shoot Mitchell too?"

"He is in our way. And I do not believe they are here to help us."

"Let me handle this. Mitchell, I am ordering you to back down." he said activating the com in his coat. "SG-1 is to stand down, disarm the traps and wait till this is over."

"We can't do that General." Mitchell said as he kept looking around. "The I.O.A. wants Akrad left alone. I'm going to assume that you read everything Sam sent you."

"I did. The I.O.A. are idiots and have no idea what this man is capable of. We've learned of other evils this man has done and plans to do, so I'm with Teal'c on this. Besides, it's more a matter of honor on Teal'cs part right now. And where are you crawling off to?"

"So you are nearby? I thought so. Come out so we can talk."

"Talking is over. Arkad will die by my hands no matter the consequences. I suggest you and the rest of SG-1 stay out of my way. I do not wish you harm, but will if I must. That includes you Ford Carter." Teal'c said as he started off.

After a few moments, Mitchell stood up and looked around after hearing a crunch and then static.

"Ford, you really need to stop. We all need to talk and…."

"I think he shut his radio off Sam. Or, Teal'c broke it."

Sam, Daniel and Vala all got back together in part of the open area.

"Now what do we do?" Vala asked.

"They must be at least near or at the pyramid by now." Carter said.

As the group was talking, the other two were standing nearby. Ford quickly grabbed the Jaffa stun grenade as Teal'c went to toss it.

"Teal'c, even though this can't really harm anyone, I will not let you throw that at her. We're going to have to talk to them face…."

"The time for talk is over…." he growled as he spun the staff weapon around.

Ford dropped the grenade and grabbed the end before he could make it open.

"Teal'c, I promise you that you will be able to kill Arkad. He is a very evil, dishonorable and a Ori worshipper, which makes him a bigger threat than ever. I give you my word. That last part alone and his plan to unite Jaffa to join the Ori makes me want him dead. Even with all the info we have gathered on this asshole, we aren't really sure about how many troops he has. If you die before getting to him, then all this we've been doing will be for nothing! Do you want that? We need their help. I can't distract all his troops alone if I'm watching your back as well."

"Very well. I will hold you to that promise."

"Thank god I didn't have to deal with that." Mitchell said as he stepped out as the two came out from behind a big tree startling the other three.

After several minutes of arguing, SG-1 agreed to go as a team and stop Arkad. Teal'c would get to fight the man, hopefully after learning something about the planned attack on Earth. It took Teal'c promising to leave the SGC if they turned on him at any point to make them realize that very little was going to deter or stop Teal'c.

Arkad was practicing with one of the larger black staffs in the room. Doing different moves, some slow others rather fast. There was no one outside watching the temple as SG-1 arrived. One guy walked by the stone doorway only to die quickly as three shots from a staff weapon killed him. Three Jaffa that were standing by different pillars inside went into attack mode as the other guy dropped dead. The stun grenade from before was tossed in taking them out quickly.

"Clear." Mitchell said as they walked in with weapons pointed.

Teal'c nodded and walked past the pillars with them as they kept watch.

Arkad was still training with the long stick in anticipation for the attack he knew was coming.

The group came around a corner as three Jaffa came from the other side. Teal'c fired quickly taking out one as the other two took cover behind pillars on their end. SG-1 took cover as well firing back. Ford had the sword out in front of him as he walked down the short path. A few bolts hit him and the blade allowing the others to quickly take out the Jaffa as they were distracted. He did his best to avoid letting the blade be hit too many times. It was coated with the M.B.S. and another chemical that was also created by the Knight Industries that Ford had improved on. However, that heat resistant chemical was only able to keep protection for a certain period of time and at a certain heat level. With K-9's help, he learned that about two dozen shots from a staff weapon would render the protective covering over the blades useless and probably the sword as well depending on where all the hits took place. The current condition of the sword also counted into the factoring equation. So far, he was at eight impacts. He ducked another shot and swung out cutting the man in half. Bullet were flying rather quickly from the teams guns as they shot different Jaffa that kept coming from other directions. So far, no one was hit and they had yet to change clips. At least another dozen or so Jaffa came at them before it stopped.

"Sound off." Mitchell said.

"Here, reloading." Daniel said.

"Got grazed, but fine. A few rounds…" Vala was saying when Mitchell told her to reload anyway.

"I am fine." Teal'c stated as he looked around, mostly to get his bearings.

"Reloaded and fine." Carter said.

"I got to avoid blocking anymore shots with this." Ford said as he waved at the smoking blade. "At least it still comes apart."

"You coat is ruined." Mitchell said.

"I know." Ford said glancing at it to see several dozen burn marks. "I have plenty of coats, I just take the metal mesh lining out and sew it into the new one."

"This way."

Arkad was still swinging his long staff around when Teal'c entered with the rest of SG-1.

"Ah, the famous SG-1. And look, you two showed up this time. Thank you for arriving so quickly. I will be greatly rewarded by the Ori for your deaths." he said snapping his fingers.

At least a dozen Jaffa entered the room from behind them. They didn't even get fully into the room as Teal'c spun his staff weapon and fired. Two of them died quickly as SG-1 took cover behind the pillars that were unfortunately very close to the door. Mitchell and Daniel got back to back quickly behind the one on the left firing around the corner indiscriminately. Sam and Vala were behind the other one firing just about the same. Ford stuck the sword into the ground and pulled out the blade that had the handle inside the blade and the serrated one. Arkad came up behind Teal'c attacking him with a sword that was a hidden blade inside the long pole.

He blocked it with the staff weapon, but the blade cut it in half and cut him across the chest. Teal'c swung with the spoon like end making Arkad back up quickly. He grabbed the main blade of Ford's sword making the others fall to the ground and started attacking Arkad as the rest of SG-1 was dealing with the others.

Ford's coat was actually catching fire in several places as he swung around slicing anyone close enough to hit. Mitchell got on the ground telling Daniel he had to reload and ended up having to use his nine as a couple Jaffa came around the pillar on his side. He ended up getting shot in the side, but the vest inserts and the fact he was currently wearing the vest that had the Adamantium in it protected him from getting anything other than an aching bruise. Vala grabbed one of the spiked weapons leaning on the pillar near her and took a Jaffa out quickly after her gun ran out. Daniel was able to reload as Ford kept them covered for the moment. The serrated blade had broke in half after taking a couple bolt hits, leaving him two curved sections on it. He brought the broken blade down into one guy and had to leave it as it refused pull out. Unfortunately, he left himself wide open and took a hit at point blank range to the upper chest that burned his throat badly, making him drop to his knees.

Carter ran out of ammo and pulled the magnum off her hip instead of reloading. She was very used to the recoil, which was just a bit stronger than a normal 45 caliber, thanks to his training. And seeing as the enemy wasn't all that far away, she was taking head shots quickly as the Jaffa tried to take advantage of Ford's downed position. Vala had taken another three guys out before she took a hit to the abdomen that sent her back into the wall. Seeing two of their people down, Daniel and Mitchell stepped out with Sam and just opened fire at anything that moved. Ten seconds later, nothing was moving. Not even Ford. They reloaded quickly as Daniel checked on Vala, who was getting back up. She had been injured, but since healed, no death thankfully. Carter kept the magnum out as she turned Ford over and Mitchell grabbed Vala's PC-90, reloaded it and looked out the doorway with both guns. Seeing no reinforcements, he turned to help her get Ford up.

Teal'c and Arkad were sword fighting while the attack took place. It only briefly crossed Teal'cs mind that Ford telling him earlier that they needed the extra help being a good idea. He was unsure if he would have made it this far if it was just the two of them. Teal'c was not well versed in the use of swords, much less a heavy one he was holding, but he was holding his own rather well. Both of them had various cuts and were bleeding from the lips were they had managed to punch each other a couple times during close encounters.

SG-1 had gotten back on their feet and other than watching for other Jaffa to show up, they watched Teal'c. Arkad tried to provoke Teal'c by telling him about the fact he did kill Teal'cs mother for revenge for an attack Teal'c did on some planet that had Arkad's family. Teal'c unfortunately took the bait and missed only to get a long cut across his back. He quickly turned around swinging outward only to have it blocked. So he charged him while leaving himself open at the same time. Arkad took the bait and stabbed. Teal'c moved but not as fast as he wished as the blade sank into his left lower side.

"And now you die."

"I do not believe so." Teal'c stated as he grabbed the blade with his left hand before it could be pulled out or turned.

He pulled him himself forward on it, much to the dismay of SG-1 and brought the large blade in his right hand down. Akrad died instantly as he was cut in half, from head to groin. Teal'c dropped the blade and then to his knees as they rushed to his aid.

Later that night at the SGC, Teal'c woke up in the infirmary. He was only in a light amount of pain, other than from the sword wound, but from the different cuts as well. Several of which needed stitches he could tell back when he got hit.

"There was a time you would have come away from such a battle without a single scratch."

Teal'c looked over to his right to find Bra'tak standing nearby in a blue hospital garb and a dark blue flannel robe.

"I am alive. Arkad is not."

"Indeed."

Up in the observation section that overlooked the medical room Teal'c was in, Mitchell was looking down on the two. Daniel had already went home for the night as did the other two. Carter and Sally were just glad he was back and never wanted him to go off doing something like that again, unless it was seriously important. Vala was already in bed for the night, though she did try to get Daniel to take her home with him.

"I just finished reading your report Colonel." Landry said as he entered. "General Carter's was more interesting, but that's because he detailed everything they did up from when they left. However, you stated you felt the plan was a bad idea, and yet you went along with it."

"Teal'c was bound and determined to do it, even if he had to fight the General. I figured, better to go help him anyway then have him turn against us."

"The I.O.A. is definitely not going to like the fact you all went against their orders. However, the fact you wrote in their that Arkad planned to kill SG-1 to gain prestige with the Ori."

"Plus the added fact he gabbed about the planned attack on Earth being his idea." Mitchell stated.

"That will probably win them over the most. Even though we both know that he didn't really say that. The only real yelling and fallout that may take place will happen to Ford, who is taking responsibility for making you all help."

"Hmm. That doesn't surprise me at all sir."

"Arkad took credit for the murder of my mother." Teal'c stated. "If he was responsible, he was too much a coward to do it himself. The one who did, died by my hand."

"You never told me."

"Still, Arkad got what he deserved."

"There are many more as corrupt as he was."

"And we will hunt them, until they are no more."

Bra'tak got up and leaned onto the bed near his head.

"I would not like to be the one who opposes you."

"I have learned from the best, old friend."

"I was told that you and General Carter almost came to blows."

"Indeed. In each other's eyes, we were unsure of who the victor would really be."

This caused Bra'tak to raise both eyebrows.

"It would not have been a fight to the death however."

"General Carter would have held back Teal'c."

"I would not. And he knew so."

Bra'tak nodded in understanding.

"I have not said this to you before, and I should have." he said placing a hand on Teal'cs chest. "You are the son I never had. I could not be more proud."

Teal'c took hold of his arm in the Jaffa hand shake as Bra'tak did the same. They didn't say anything else but you could see the tears forming in Teal'cs eyes even as they bowed their heads at each other.