Subscribe to DeepL
Chapter 19: The Council.
Teal'c was awakened by a thud. At first he ignored it, exhausted as he was by the long haul, but the noise became insistent and he couldn't pretend he hadn't heard it. He opened one eye and then the other. He was disoriented and tried to put his memories in the right order. He looked around the room and realized that what they had experienced yesterday was not just a nightmare, but reality. And yet, when he smelled a soft bed, he thought he was at home. The soft bed was actually a soft sofa in an unfamiliar room. He sat up slowly. John, too, was slowly waking up. Teal'c heard him grumble as he struggled to get up. After getting up, he went straight to the window. John saw that it was still dark. Teal'c turned his attention to the famous thumping that had awakened him from his sleep. Someone was knocking at the door. He went to open it, dragging his feet. A small woman, about five feet tall, entered like a cannonball, raging in an unknown language. Teal'c had just enough time to step aside and let her enter headlong. She was so small you could only see the tray she was carrying. She seemed quite strong and had a nasty temper. She was red from exertion. She swore again when she saw the others all asleep, slumped on the sofas. Jack O'Neill was just starting to sit up, looking a little lost. He looked at Teal'c in amazement as he saw a tray move by itself. The noise had been muffled, as the little woman couldn't strike straight because her load was much bigger than she was and very heavy. Jack took a closer look and saw the woman underneath. Teal'c took the tray from her hands to help her. But she continued to grumble, so she methodically placed cups around the coffee table while Teal'c supported the tray. Then she placed a bowl in the middle. She poured steaming water into each cup. Immediately, a pleasant smell of lemongrass evaporated into the air, tickling the nostrils of the rest of the sleeping team. Then she added a few things to the bowl, creating a small explosion and releasing smoke. Everyone awoke with a start, ready to defend themselves. The little woman seemed pleased at last that everyone was awake. She looked around the room and, feeling pleased with herself, turned on her heels and left the room without a word. Teal'c was amused, while the others slowly recovered from their sudden awakening.
- Quite a woman, thought Teal'c.
Jack O's eyes were still round.
- But what time is it ? asked Jack.
- I guess, the hour near the assembly, Daniel replied, stretching.
Teal'c had already had a cup; the lemongrass had whetted his appetite. He savored it as he closed his eyes. They were all sore.
- Talk about an hour to get together, the sun's not even up yet too, it's criminal! complained Vala, biting into a cookie.
- Shola warned us that it would be very early and that we should go to sleep early yesterday, said Teal'c.
- What do we do? asked Jack C, not knowing what to do in this situation.
- We're going to the assembly, Jack O said with a sigh. It promised to be very boring.
- Yes, but if they're the ones who attacked us like Sam says, said John.
- We're trying to stay alive at first, said Jack O. Then we'll see.
- Maybe not everyone, said a frightened Sam, recalling the events of the previous day.
Silence settled in.
- It'll be a good opportunity to get some news, said Daniel, breaking the silence and reassuring them.
- Or maybe more, said Vala.
They glared at her, but what she said could be true. Mitchell was about to say a bloody retort when someone knocked on the door and entered.
- Hello everyone, said Shola cheerfully. I hope I'm not disturbing you, I've come to fetch you for the Council. Please follow me.
Then she turned and didn't even look to see if they were following. Mitchell was struck by her gait. She wasn't walking, she seemed to be dancing, even gliding across the floor. You could hardly hear the fabric of her dress brushing against the floor, or her footsteps for that matter. Today, she was dressed in a long white dress with a hood covering her loose hair. Her steps were loose and supple. The team behind her seemed clumsy. Behind her wake, the Confessor left a trail of freshness and fragrant flowers. They arrived in a small, dimly lit courtyard, the sun rising. Her footsteps were muffled, no noise was in her path as the pebbles in the courtyard crunched deafeningly beneath the team's shoes. They felt uncomfortable making so much noise in this quiet courtyard. Even the birds had fallen silent as they greeted Shola. They passed through numerous corridors that seemed to be counted ad infinitum. Then they came to a large golden door, still following Shola. The golden door was over 5 meters high and just as wide, with bright blue symbols embossed on it. Daniel didn't have time to read them, for as Shola approached, the door opened, giving way to another corridor guarded by two men. They bowed as Shola passed, almost ignoring them. The scenery changed abruptly. Until now, the place had been well-lit and made up of well-cut stones. Now they entered a dark place lit only by torches at regular intervals. The walls were gone, replaced by a natural rock face. Minerals glistened in the torchlight. Some were black micas.
-We're in the heart of an ancient stratovolcano. Don't worry," said Shola, seeing John shivering, she continued her dialogue as if she were the guide, "in fact, the cliffs you saw were only the edges of the volcano before it collapsed in on itself and disappeared forever. That's why the cliffs form such a perfect, round, enclosed structure. This is the only external evidence of the gigantic volcano, of its former greatness. Of course, it's long since fallen asleep. The heart of the city is built into the very core of this vestige. It serves as our council headquarters, but also provides us with energy for the city and several nearby villages. The fact that the council resides within it', says Shola pointing to the wall, 'goes back to a very old tradition when our elders took offerings to the volcano to appease its fire. It's a tribute. Personally, I hate this dark place, it's so sad. No birds, no wind, no fresh breeze'.
She was lost in thought, and didn't seem to be bothered by the lack of light to walk around, whereas the others had trouble finding their way around, stumbling from time to time.
- I have so much to tell you before we arrive, but so little time, said Shola, snapping out of her reverie. The council is quite old, so speak up and insist on your request. Don't get upset if they repeat themselves. At the moment it's fine, but... be patient. Start with the simplest requests...Oh! They love stories too, because as part of the Council, they're not allowed to leave the heart of the city for security reasons, so they get a bit bored. Your problems could distract and interest them. The more you interest them, the more they'll be inclined to help you.
- How does the council work? asked Daniel, the only one interested.
- Hum, it's a bit complicated, but there are three permanent positions that have been handed down from generation to generation. At present, they are made up of two men and one woman, and have been for over fifty years. The latter are not always there, at least not all at the same time, given their age. Then there are i other non-permanent positions lasting 3 years. These posts are divided into 3 which are appointed or elected by the people, three for the people of the outer villages, they're always there - well, at least one of them is, as they're often asked to settle various problems that arise outside the city, three for the city itself, always present, and three for the Outer Lands, these too are not always there, in fact I haven't seen them for a long time. So there you have it.
- And you?
- I'm the Mother Confessor, so it's my duty to be there. I'm supposed to resolve conflicts by uncovering the truth and honesty in people. You don't lie to a Confessor. In fact, the council is also open to the public to present their problems directly. But they only come if it's really serious, so they usually avoid coming. I think they're afraid of me, laughs Shola. But apparently today's council will be exceptional. Your arrival has attracted a lot of curious onlookers. By the way, you'll be the last to clear the room unless...
- Unless? said Jack O.
- They're deliberating right now, Shola finished.
Daniel wasn't sure whether this was a guess or a statement. They arrived at a large oval amphitheatre. There were several entrances, and as they approached they heard clamors.
- They're clearing out, said Shola.
The amphitheatre was naturally lit by the sparkling crystals that adorned the celestial ceiling. These crystals looked like thousands of shining stars. They were observing a starry night in the middle of the day.
- Oh, said Vala in wonder.
Shola smiled, sending the team into awe. She, too, loved this part of the volcano. When they finally reached the amphitheatre, Adred rushed towards his sister, pushing aside the evacuated crowd.
- What's going on? asked Shola, amused.
- As if you didn't already know, said Adred breathlessly.
- You're out of breath, brother, you're not getting enough exercise, Shola scoffed.
- Ah very funny, you're not going to start like Astyan too, Adred pouted.
- You'll survive. Are you going to answer me, yes or no? said Shola more seriously.
- They're here, said Adred in a frightened breath. I mean all of them. Astyan is leading the people out. The Council has decided to close to the public exceptionally.
- Astyan is here.
- Yes.
- You're right, anything can happen today, said Shola cheerfully.
- And the Brotherhood is here too.
- Excuse me? said Shola, turning around abruptly.
- The brotherhood...
- Thank you for hearing me the first time, cut in Shola.
- Ah, I thought you'd gone deaf with age, joked Adred. But his smile faded as his sister glared at him.
- The twelve ?
- Yes, I'm afraid so.
- But they're never around, so why do they get involved in things that don't concern them?
- I've only known since this morning.
- And that's good or bad for us, for them? says Shola without meeting the team's gaze.
- I don't know, Adred admitted, shrugging his shoulders in helplessness.
- Come on, let's get settled in, said Shola reassuringly.
She entered the auditorium from the right. She slipped into a row.
- Sit there and wait to be talked to, don't make too much noise, told Shola, pointing to the dark red cushions.
- Well, how long is this going to last? asked Jack O.
- Don't worry, you'll be bored at first, but afterwards..., interrupted Shola as a woman waved to her. I won't be far away.
- I wasn't asking about that, said Jack O.
- Really !, said Daniel, looking up at the sky.
- And anyway, I don't have to be there, you know your lines by heart, said Jack O.
- Oh, if you're all going to be there, said Adred mysteriously.
- And no nasty surprises, said Astyan, arriving at his side and looking at John and Mitchell.
- Very well, I'll settle into my dressing room, Adred..., said Shola dreamily.
- I'm staying here, they might need my advice and Astyan's staying here too.
- Grr.
- Okay, no problem. It really is an exceptional day, as you said, says Shola smiling ecstatically. Astyan on the board.
Astyan glared at Shola and his brother, annoyed that he knew their intentions before he did.
- What does she mean exactly? said Astyan.
- I don't know, says Adred, innocent. Sit down, the council will start soon. Looking at the ceiling.
-You're lying, said Astyan.
- I know, laughed Adred, settling down in front of a cushion. But you also knew in advance that I was going to lie.
- He's ignoring us again, said Mitchell.
- Yes, and it's becoming a nasty habit, Sam grumbled.
- We apologize for our rudeness, said Adred, turning back to Sam.
Their eyes met. Sam lost himself in the depth of her blue irises.
- Uh, it's nothing, Sam stammered. She blushed.
Astyan sighed, sometimes his brother went too far. Then the lights from the crystals intensified. Then silence settled in. Daniel looked around the amphitheatre and saw Shola, majestic, settling into her dressing room, accompanied by two other women dressed like her. They stood on either side of Shola, standing motionless. Their gazes were fixed in front of them. Daniel followed their gaze. Two elderly men and a woman appeared in their dressing room. They had emerged from the shadows as if by magic. They greeted each other briefly. They too settled into their places, as still as statues, and waited for a few moments. They showed nothing on their neutral faces, except for the man to the right of the woman. His forehead was wrinkled with worry and his eyes sparkled with anger. Jack hoped it wasn't directed at them. Adred, too, sensed the anger and began to squirm uncomfortably. Daniel turned his attention back to his right, where two people were approaching them, hoods up. Standing next to Astyan were Uriel and Castiel. Daniel looked at them in amazement. They waited for the silence to be broken. Two more women and a man arrived - Daniel assumed they were villagers by the way they were dressed - and three men followed, wearing the same clothes as Adred and Astyan, but less wealthy. Unless it was the latter who were showing off their clothes.
- Oh, the whole family, said Astyan quietly.
- Not quite, said Adred through gritted teeth.
Astyan had never seen his brother so agitated, even if he didn't show it much at the moment. He was beginning to worry. It was at this moment that the lights came on brightly, slightly dazzling the audience. Adred and Astyan instinctively stood in front of the team as if to protect them. They'd had the same idea.
- Don't do anything, Adred whispered to Jack.
Daniel no longer understood what was going on. They were all looking in the same direction: at nothing. He saw nothing. The cold had overtaken them, a light breeze sprang up even though Shola had said there was none, and Vala unconsciously began to tremble. Adred put a hand on her shoulder, and she immediately felt reassured, less cold. Then they saw them emerge from the shadows. Three men dressed all in black were approaching. Jack tried to see their faces, but to no avail.
- What are they doing here? pestered Astyan.
- Didn't I tell you? said Adred in the same tone.
- No.
- Oops. Calm down, they're not here to wage war on us, says Adred in a gentle tone. They'll leave just as quickly and we'll forget all about them.
- They're never here, but why are they...oh no...You should have warned me, you want me dead. Do you have any more surprises for me, growled Astyan.
- Hush, begged Adred, looking straight ahead.
The team was becoming increasingly uncomfortable. They felt excluded, witnesses to something they didn't understand. The woman between the two men stepped forward to speak.
- Now that everyone's here, we can begin the session, said the woman in a clear, theatrical tone. II'll ask you to ...'
But she was interrupted by a thud. It came from directly in front of the team, who had a front-row seat to see the large doors open right in front of them. Twelve people approached with a feline gait: 6 women and 6 men, their hair tousled by the non-existent wind. Forming a triangle, the first, positioned at the point, spoke up:
- Forgive us for being late, Maryl, but we had a long way to go to get here and I'm afraid I'd forgotten how to get into this fortress.
- Maybe it's because you and your ancestors deserted it so long ago, he replied dryly, his lips pursed.
Adred smiled, and Astyan was surprised by his answer.
- Maryl, whispered Adred.
- Sit down, the session's starting, said Maryl, ignoring the newcomers.
At these words, everyone sat down. Daniel motioned for the others to do the same.
- I have the honor of opening the ..., Maryl continued.
You know Shola, the Mother Confessor, but also my sister and her two most loyal assistants", Adred introduced the various members of the Council, whispering and pointing to the upper left-hand box. Then to the right, in the two boxes, you have the representatives of the villages outside the city, close to us, they are Marius, Elena and Cybelle, the people further away from us are the members of the city: Louis, Richard and Torak. Opposite us are the permanent members: Maryl is the current president. Maryl, Bale and James alternate from time to time. I've lost count, by the way. The others, as I'm sure you've gathered, don't come here very often and aren't as welcome as they used to be, but they've been entitled to this seat for a long time, so we don't have the right to refuse them, and they're not people you can easily contradict'.
- I wonder what they're doing here all the same, said Astyan, seething with rage.
- Think about it, you know why they're here.
- They're not going to...
- No, cut in Adred. They're just curious and I think we'll be able to arrange things our own way, said Adred confidently and vaguely.
- I hope so, because I won't let them...
- It's not going to happen, said Adred, smiling. But tell me, maybe I'm wrong, but did she touch you?
- What's he talking about? Mitchell asked Daniel.
- I don't know, a bit of a treaty, an oath, says Daniel, absorbed in Maryl's speech.
- He wasn't talking about that, said Vala, poking him in the ribs. Are you listening ?
- Yes, said an indignant Daniel.
- She was talking about what Adred said, whispered John, also intrigued.
- Oh.
- Shut up, said Adred suddenly. She's watching us.
-...Very well, now we can start the requests, if no one objects, said Maryl, she stood up, joined her hands in front of her and raised them to the heavens then said a prayer in an unknown language.
- I swear, said Shola, who had also stood up in response to Maryl's prayer.
- I swear it, said the others in chorus.
- What are they doing? asked Jack O.
- They take an oath to be fair and impartial, said Daniel.
- Are we on trial ? asked Jack C, suspiciously.
- No, it's to give the best appropriate response to your future request, but indeed, this assembly also serves as a court of justice, Adred explained.
- But not today, Astyan reassured them.
- Ah that's reassuring, says John annoyed.
- I think we're all agreed to settle one or two of the most important matters of the moment, Maryl resumed. Before we attend to our guests.
Turning her head towards the team and looking around the assembly to see everyone's reaction, but as no one reacted, she continued :
- Elena, I seem to have heard a rumor of a serious dispute near Dendril, please tell us about the problem quickly.
Elena stood up, bowed and explained the problem:
- Two of Dendril's largest families, living near the Blue Jewel River, clashed. The brawl left 8 people injured, one of whom died last night in a serious condition. It was over a dispute about ownership of a piece of the river that runs through their land. This is an area where there are a lot of fish. In theory, this river belongs to the Brooks family, and they have made a dam to hold back the fish and help them reproduce in an environment favorable to them. But in so doing, the Brooks have reduced the flow of water reaching the land of the second family, who no longer have enough water to feed themselves and carry out their primary tasks - their water mill powers half the village. One of the second family's sons then destroyed this dam, provoking the quarrel in question. One family is asking for compensation for the dam, and the other for the deceased and the consequences of the dam's installation.
- Very well, let the two families come and speak..., ordered Maryl.
- Well, both families are going to testify to tell their side of the story, and my sister is going to sort out what's true and what's false, and what they're hiding from us, because sometimes they forget to mention details that seem negligible but are really important, so that we can understand the events.
- How does she know he's telling the truth? asked Teal'c curiously.
- Years of practice, years of teaching from a young age and she has the gift. Not everyone can do what she does, she had to pass many tests before becoming the specialist she is, replied Adred.
- Can she be wrong? asked Mitchell.
- No...unless the person is convinced of their guilt, then it's hard for them to discover that it's not true, Adred admitted.
- Has this ever happened before ? asked Daniel.
- Yes, only once so far has a man blamed himself for his wife's death because he didn't go to the market as planned, and she was attacked by a hungry wild wolf, said Astyan.
- He felt guilty, says Daniel.
- Yes, that's why I'm going to ask you to put your feelings aside when she questions you, Adred said. Because I know you feel guilty for what happened to your friend, Adred continued, looking at Sam, who lowered her eyes as the red rose to her cheeks.
- And it's nothing to be ashamed of, but it might cloud her judgment and then Maryl might ask for other methods..., says Astyan.
- You should know that this doesn't make the Confessor's job any easier, added Adred.
- And how does she get men to tell the truth ? asked an interested John.
- Oh, she can be very persuasive, she's not such a fragile woman, she's really tough, but the truth is, it's very hard to lie to her when her eyes are locked on yours. Remorse and guilt eat away at you if you lie. It's very inconvenient for us, her brothers, says Adred.
- Especially when you want to protect her, preserve her, but with a little practice you start to be able to lie to her, it's for her own good, Astyan added.
- So nobody can lie to him, said Jack O.
- In theory, yes, even we end up being found out, and that's annoying, sighed Adred.
- In theory? repeat John.
- We don't know why, but some people are immune, fortunately they're few and far between. She can't confess them through normal mechanisms, hence the other methods, replied Astyan.
- But we're not going to bore you with that, are we Astyan? I promised Jack he'd only be bored for a short while, cut in Adred.
He turned his attention back to Elena and Shola, who was concentrating hard.
- Why put up a roadblock? asked Shola.
- Fish.
- What's the real motivation ? added Shola.
- Fish, Mother Confessor...and jealousy, said a young man fiddling uncomfortably with his hat.
- Oh! said the crowd.
- Let him explain, said Shola in an authoritative tone that didn't match her angelic face.
- They have the most beautiful animals, the most beautiful fish when they fish, and then they asked for a monster dowry so they could marry their daughter, the beautiful Irina. I thought I could show them that I, too, could create a magnificent farm of these beautiful blue fish. I didn't think about the consequences, but we love each other and I promised Irina I'd do everything I can to get us back together.
Murmurs of disapproval ran through the amphitheater.
- Irina, there's no need to be afraid. Do you share this love ? asked Shola reassuringly.
- Yes, said Irina shyly and very softly.
- But no, it went to his head, said a man who must have been his father.
- Silence! said Shola abruptly. I didn't ask for your opinion.
- Yes, Irina repeated, a little more confidently.
- There, now I think the events are clearer...
- That's how she solves problems, said Adred proudly.
- I must admit it's effective, said an impressed Vala.
- She'll take care of us the same way, said Jack C.
- Yes, but you've got nothing to hide, you've already said it all, haven't you ? said Adred, amused.
- Not really, said Daniel.
- Of course, as time is short, you can skip certain details if they seem too difficult or too sensitive. Shola won't insist too much during her interrogations, I think she already knows everything about you.
- Interrogatories? said John.
- Yes, finally, a few simple questions, because the council has many unanswered questions. These are easy questions to answer, says Adred reassuringly and in a whisper.
For the council members had fallen into a deep silence, deliberating, then Maryl stood up, looked at the other members and spoke in a loud, clear voice:
- She'll give her verdict in agreement with the others, but it's more of an opinion and they generally follow it, says Adred.
- In view of your various testimonials, I think Irina and Louis can join forces, there's no reason to oppose it, and it will honor the memory of the deceased. Louis will, of course, have to contribute his knowledge of iron to Irina's family in return. While Irina's family will have to repair what you have destroyed by removing the dam, together you will clean up the Blue Jewels River and pay a tax to the families downstream for the damage. Do you all agree? concludes Maryl.
- Yes miss, said both families at the same time, bowing low as Irina and Louis hugged each other.
- So be it, says Maryl, sitting back down.
- Let it be so, said the council in chorus.
- The board wishes you all the best for the wedding and our condolences to the deceased, Elena concluded, dismissing the two families from the amphitheatre.
The problem had been solved, and the anger in both families had disappeared. There was still some hesitation on their faces, but things would work out in time, they would forgive each other and become a united family.
The second problem concerned a remote village near the Outlands, which had just lost its only doctor and was asking the city for a new one.
- Didn't he have an apprentice? asked Bale, right next to Maryl.
- Yes, but his apprenticeship isn't over yet, he still has a year to study, explained the village headman.
- Indeed, this poses a problem. And what about your request? asked Maryl, glancing at the city representatives.
- We didn't get an answer, complained the chief.
- Really? says an astonished Bale.
- He's telling the truth, and why hasn't he heard from you? asked Shola.
- They had one, but negative, said Torak, defending himself.
- And why is that? asked Shola.
- We can't comply with their request, said Jakob uncomfortably.
-However, the city must provide the various needs of the outer villages, reminded Shola.
- Yes, yes we know, but we've already sent 3 doctors and we can't afford to send another so far away. The city needs them too, Richard defended himself.
- And that's understanding, says Maryl in a gentle tone.
- But there's got to be another way, the village is so far away, it can't stay without a doctor, told Shola.
- Yes, we know that, but we haven't thought of any other way, Jakob admitted.
- Because you wanted to make it easier, James accused, silent until then.
- Yes, Torak confessed in shame.
- Is there a way to send one through Astar..., asked Shola.
- By Astar? Daniel asked Adred.
- This is our calendar. Six days correspond to one Astar, the time it takes our main moon to go around us. After 5 Astars, we have the cycle of the second moon. Finally, one Lustre is the time it takes for our red star to circle us, explained Adred.
- Yes, no doubt, said Jakob after a moment's thought.
- The doctor will treat the most seriously ill patients, and the apprentice will take care of the rest, thus complementing his training and speeding it up. I suggest the day of grace, when the city's doctors are not very busy, added Shola.
Daniel admired Shola's practicality. She single-handedly solved every problem.
- This can be done, told Tarok, thoughtfully.
- It's fine with us, said the chief, happy to have a doctor back in his village.
- And then we can send a retired professor of medicine, for example, to support the apprentice and finish his teaching, suggested Bale.
- Yes, Remus would be happy to be active again, said James.
- And about the city, I'm concerned... began Jakob.
- The city will have the help of Castiel and Uriel until the problem is solved. They'll only take the most serious cases, won't they? said Shola.
Those concerned had risen to their feet. Their faces were still hidden by the hood, which fell away.
- It would be a pleasure, laughed Castiel.
- We've already started work, says Uriel.
The assembly murmured in astonishment, and the city representatives seemed perplexed but pleased with the decision.
- Really? says Maryl, looking into Castiel's piercing eyes. Then the problem's solved, she finishes a little dryly.
- Oh oh she's great my sister, said Adred, who was getting a little agitated.
- She's just found an excuse, an alibi for Castiel and Uriel to treat your friend without hiding it, Astyan explained to the team, seeing Mitchell's questioning look.
- In fact, they're the best doctors in the city, but they don't work much anymore because of their age, purposed Adred.
- And why don't they practice anymore if they're the best, they could be doing the most serious cases, said Mitchell.
- Uriel and Castiel only look after your friend because Shola is very persuasive when it comes to convincing people, replied Adred.
- As she was today, Vala remarked.
- Yes, the opinion of a Confessor always carries weight, we always take their opinion into consideration because their judgment is right. Is all this so strange to you ? asked Adred, curious.
- No, we too have a judicial system to enforce our laws, said Daniel.
- But it can take a long time to set up, it can take years for justice to take place. And sometimes ineffective in delivering justice, Cameron added.
- How does it differ ? asked Astyan.
- Our system is divided, not composed of a single council. It's divided into several courts made up of judges, explained Daniel.
- What divides your forces, remarked Adred.
- Maybe, but we solve more cases.
- But as a result, judges are less competent and opinions differ depending on where the trial takes place, remarked Adred.
- Yes, but diversity can sometimes help in business, thought Daniel.
- Yes, but if you keep changing, the system isn't stable. When we change board members, it's chaos for a few weeks. It's chaos for a few weeks, until the board is rebalanced, in agreement or harmony.
- Maybe our system works, said Vala.
- Yes, on the surface, grumbled Astyan.
- Don't be so harsh. He complains that not all the members are always there as they are today. Some members have become lazy and too old for some, as Astyan says. I wonder if you count Shola in this group or even in the first one, and I wonder what she thinks about it, said Adred.
- GGrrr. If you say it again, I'll...
- I know, I was joking, said Adred.
Shola stood up and glared at Astyan.
- So be it, said Shola, concluding the second case.
- Let it be so, echoed the rest of the assembly.
Adred stifled a laugh and Astyan sighed.
Now the members whispered among themselves as two guards escorted the village chief out of the amphitheater. They talked loudly about the latest gossip. Except the last 12 were arriving, and the 3 members of the Outer Lands remained silent, spectators of the session. They hadn't even moved. Vala wondered if they even breathed from time to time. Now Vala was beginning to see the slightest hint of impatience. Maryl didn't seem to be in any hurry to continue; it was as if she were prolonging the pleasure. One of the three men from the Outlands stood up. He was dark-haired, taller than normal and his skin was matted. He spoke in a polished voice that was surprisingly soft, like a melody.
- Maryl, forgive me for interrupting, but wouldn't it be rude to keep your guests waiting? Making them wait only increases their discomfort.
- Very well, you're absolutely right, Maryl admitted reluctantly. So let's finish by dealing with our last case of the day. Those people sitting in front of you arrived on Attalon yesterday. We were able to pick up the entire crew the same day. But I believe you have more information for us, I imagine, Adred, Astyan.
They stood up.
- Yes, the team crashed yesterday as you specified, we sent a rescue team as soon as we heard the crash and saw the fires caused by the impact. Even the city's foundations shook from the force of the crash. Our team was able to locate the smoking corpse of their ship, and against all odds, the team had survived and was safe and sound... Adred recounted.
- After we talked, they also said they had a request to make of us, that they were asking for our help, Shola clarified, after a moment.
- Our help ? said bale, looking suspicious and not understanding.
- And how can we help them and what makes them think we can help them, Maryl questioned.
- Maybe we can ask them directly, says Shola with a smile.
- Yes, why not, said Maryl thoughtfully. Foreigners don't usually have the floor at the Council, but since we've adapted to their language, added Maryl with a superior air. Yes, we can do it, explained Maryl speaking more to herself. Let him appoint someone to tell us their...request. If he forgets anything important, let the others intervene, Maryl thought aloud.
- Choose your spokesperson, ordered James.
The team looked at the crew members one by one. As usual, they chose the person best placed to communicate with foreigners, a specialist in foreign civilizations, and best placed to tell their story: Daniel. Daniel rose to his feet, a little shy at Jack's encouragement. Usually, all he wanted was to be listened to, but this was different: he felt judged and had no right to make mistakes.
- Well, state your facts clearly and simply... says Maryl. And from the beginning. Don't interrupt his story, I'll intervene if necessary.
She looked at the crowd and when no one challenged her, she continued :
- Well, speak up, Maryl finished before taking her seat.
All eyes were on Daniel. Beside him, Vala was trying to make herself very small to escape the glare, whereas she usually liked to draw people's attention to herself. Jack nodded to Daniel to begin his speech. Adred, too, looked at him with assurance and confidence. Daniel was no longer so sure of himself. He took a deep breath...
- Imagine them naked, says Vala beside him, encouraging him.
Adred looked at her in surprise.
...and off he went.
- I don't know where to start, said Daniel very awkwardly. So I'll start at the beginning, Daniel hesitated.
- Great! sighed Vala.
- Over a year ago, we unwittingly revealed our existence to people who thought we didn't exist, or that we no longer existed. These people have become our worst enemies. Ever since they learned of our existence, they've been invading planets one by one and colonizing entire galaxies. People become their slaves. If we resist, they wipe out entire innocent villages with unknown diseases or simply massacres. Genocide is taking place as we speak. For the moment, our planet is safe and we're able to defend ourselves for a short while, but the rest of our galaxy - the Milky Way - is under threat. We've looked into different ways of defending ourselves, but to no avail, or the weapons we've found are far too harmful to our own civilization. If our galaxy is totally under the yoke of these people, I don't think they'll stop there, because they use people's submission to strengthen their power. And they want more and more power, they get greedier and greedier as time goes by...
- Get to the point, Vala urged.
- We call them the Oriis, finished Daniel.
An almost heavy silence settled over this revelation. The assembly began to whisper. Jack even thought he saw them tense up, especially Maryl. But this reaction lasted only half a second, and she quickly pulled herself together. Astyan turned to Daniel as if seeing him for the first time, then to his brother, who remained impassive. Of course, he already knew. The silence began to weigh heavily.
- You've come a long way, said Shola, breaking her silence and encouraging Daniel to continue.
- Yes, we've come a long way, a journey of over 3 days. In fact, our destination was this planet you call Attalon. In our galaxy, during one of our explorations, we discovered tablets written by the Atlanteans. They are a very ancient and highly evolved people. They wrote many predictions and indications, including the address of this planet to use what some call the Ring of the Gods. But unfortunately, we weren't able to use this address, so we had to make this long journey", Daniel explained, a little more confidently.
- You're talking about the Stargate, I suppose, said Bale.
- Yes, that's right, that's what we call it too, told Daniel.
- We don't use it much, we don't have many exchanges with the outside world, it's for our own safety, said Maryl.
- Speaking of which, I'd like to know their mechanism, Sam whispered to Jack.
- And I'm sorry you've come all this way for nothing, that we couldn't warn you, because we can't help you, and I don't see how we can, because the people you're describing sound fearsome and we're just a quiet people, says Bale.
- We don't know how you can help us either, unfortunately the Ancients are people who don't give much detail and like to talk in riddles, but the tablets are clear, said Daniel.
- And you believe in writings that are years old, said Maryl mockingly.
- Said like that, it sure sounds silly, Jack admitted to Daniel.
- And they're not buying it, says Vala.
Daniel glared at them, Vala shrugged.
- Let them get on with their story, encouraged Shola. You said we'd hear them out and that's what we're going to do.
- The tablets say we'll find a weapon to help us, says a less confident Daniel.
- A gun? said Bale in astonishment. what kind of gun?
The third limb, James leaned in close to Maryl, who shook her head.
- We don't have weapons as sophisticated as you could use. From what I've heard, though, you're very advanced technologically. If you couldn't beat the Ot... the Oriis, we won't be able to do anything either, remarked Maryl. Your ...ship seems pretty well equipped with weapons.
- Yes, a ship that was cowardly shot down when we tried to land by a weapon that looked very powerful, at least powerful enough to weaken us in one blow, John interjected angrily, remembering Angela's condition.
Astyan flinched at these accusations, but Adred and Shola beamed.
- I don't know what you're talking about, Maryl said curtly.
- The shot came from the planet, confirmed Sam.
- But how can you be...? began Bale.
- Thanks to Angéla, she managed to locate the shot just before... Sam choked with sadness and emotion.
- Is Angéla your pilot? suddenly asked one of the 12 men in a musical voice.
But the team couldn't see who had intervened, as none of them had moved and none of their mouths seemed to be moving.
Seeing that no one answered, he continued:
- But this person isn't here, is he? Where is this person? continued the voice.
Astyan tensed and clenched his fists. He pleaded with his brother, who stood up to answer.
- Let's just say she's not available. When we went to pick them up after the accident, she wasn't with the other crew members.
The audience murmured.
- For some unknown reason, she wasn't evacuated with the others, she remained in the ship on impact, she was seriously injured, Adred informed, ignoring the murmurs.
- What now? said Maryl, glad to have changed the subject and moved the conversation away from the reason for the accident.
- I was just going to ask about it, says Adred, turning to Castiel.
- She's in very good hands, intervened Shola.
- Yes, Astyan did what was necessary on the spot, she's recovering fast physically thanks to him, Castiel added.
- But we have to keep a close eye on her condition. At the moment, she's in a kind of deep sleep, finished Uriel.
The atmosphere eased as the team held their breath on hearing the news. Shola had reassured them, a weight had been lifted from their chests.
- Now that we know, I propose to provide a team of technicians to help them repair the damage to their ship. In the meantime, perhaps we could help them in their search, proposed Shola.
- I repeat, I don't see how we can help them, cut in Maryl.
- Refuse to give them any help, they're still on the brink of certain death, said Shola.
- What we're asking is impossible, and you know it, said Maryl.
- But they haven't asked for anything in particular, they just want to do some research, said Shola indignantly.
- Oh yes, precisely, and they're asking too much of us and you know it's IMPOSSIBLE, insisted Maryl. If we're still here, it's because we've taken an oath, we won't interfere and these words...
- Even if it's to fix a mistake.
- There wasn't, told Maryl.
- Then finish the job, said Shola.
- What's she talking about? asked Jack.
- Don't tempt them, sister, whispered Adred.
- The session's over, intervened Bale, seeing Shola furious.
- Let it be so, said Maryl to end the Council, surpassing these rights and thus dismissing Shola.
Shola was furious because Maryl was not supposed to conclude a session, but she had overstepped her rights to silence her. Angry, she stood up:
- Very well, the city invites you to dinner tonight, we'll discuss it again.
The assembly murmured indignantly at Maryl. Besides, they hadn't even repeated the "so be it".
- The subject is closed, finished Maryl.
Shola, who was about to leave, turned sharply towards her interlocutor:
- Of course, but we're not allowed to talk about it outside the Council. We're free to express ourselves, aren't we? You're not going to contradict the laws you yourself established, are you? says Shola with a tight smile on her lips.
- No, of course not, Maryl said hastily.
Shola stood up and didn't wait for Maryl to close the meeting, as was her custom. As Maryl herself had not waited for Shola to close the meeting.
- We'd better go, there's a storm brewing, said Adred.
- Yep, I agree, let's slip away before the others intercept us, told Astyan, looking at the 12 unknown members.
- My sister has the privilege of being able to leave before the end of the Council but she doesn't usually do this, the others are obliged to wait until Maryl closes the Council. But since Shola is upset, she uses her privilege, Adred explained, smiling at Daniel.
- You think it's funny, brother. It was like a civil war, said Astyan.
- You were terrible, Vala said to Daniel. But how are they going to listen to us now?
- On the contrary, you've all been perfect, said Adred.
- So I must have missed something, told Mitchell.
- Maybe they don't have the same notion of success as we do, said Vala.
- I've got a question, can I ask it without offending you, asked John, with a thought in the back of his mind.
- Of course, I'll be happy to inform you, and you won't offend me, at least not on this issue, said Adred.
- That I doubt...
- Pf, sighed Astyan, looking up.
- You said earlier that some people were...immune to your sister, John continued.
- Yes, and I can confirm it again.
- Is this the case for the three permanent members ?
Everyone held their breath waiting for Adred's reaction, for they could all see John's point that Maryl had lied about the attack, but no one had dared to say it out loud.
- That's a very good question, said Adred, looking calm.
- Question you're not going to answer, I suppose, supposed John.
- I'll tell you, you've got a right to know. Shola knows when they're lying because, as I've already said, none of them are immune. Unfortunately, she's not allowed to tell when they're lying, which they rarely do, I assure you. They're the supreme authority on the planet, so all she can do is remind them that they promised to be honest and neutral when they accepted the job. She also reminds them of the laws they wrote, most of them themselves, and brings them back on track, explained Adred.
- What's your point ? said Mitchell, even though he knew the answer.
- Maryl may have lied to us when she was accused of shooting us, told John.
- I'll take you back to your suite, added Adred uncomfortably. Shola will join us when she's calmed down and we'll discuss it.
Uriel and Castiel had followed them in silence, discussing the best strategy for waking Angéla from her deep sleep. But when they reached an interception point, they discreetly disappeared behind a door. On the way back, Daniel was deep in thought, recapitulating in his head what he had learned at the Council. But at another interception, he stopped dead in his tracks as his eye was caught by a drawing on a door as they passed by. But with the rest of the team lagging behind him, he quickly caught up with them, even more immersed in his thoughts. He followed them like an automaton. At last they arrived at their suite where they had spent their short night. They all sat dejectedly on the various sofas in silence. Astyan and Adred sat down side by side in one synchronized movement. Astyan seemed far too tall for the room and therefore felt uncomfortable there, while Adred's short stature was accentuated next to his brother. Apart from this remarkable difference, they were identical, yet Adred seemed more childlike and cheerful and Astyan more serious and cynical. The observation of the two brothers' similarities was interrupted by the entrance of Shola, followed by a slender young woman, who walked straight up to Adred, kissing him on the forehead.
- I present my betrothed, Sachia, introduced Adred.
As she sat on the arm of the sofa beside him, leaning affectionately against him.
- I'm happy to make your acquaintance, Sachia greeted with a wave of the hand. Adred's been telling me all about you.
- You're exaggerating, my dear, Adred blushed.
- I'm sorry if the Council didn't seem welcoming and taken seriously, said Shola. I've done what I could and then you can make up for it tonight at dinner. In any case, a team of technicians is ready to accompany you to the site as soon as you like.
- And Angela ? asked Cameron, wanting to know more.
Shola looked hesitantly at Adred.
- She's fine just like Castiel said.
- Castiel ? asked Teal'c.
- The old man with the long beard who spoke for Angéla. The other was Uriel, explained Adred.
- But... said Jack O, sensing there was a problem.
Again, Shola looked at Astyan but he didn't seem to want to answer, so she sighed and ...
- She's immersed in..., began Shola.
- In a coma, we understood him, said Daniel.
- Yes and no, actually. It's not a normal coma because we can't bring her out of it, she's protecting herself and her mind, she's got some kind of mental shield. So I was wondering if there was anything that could have triggered this...overreaction, said Shola.
- It's over, told John, not understanding.
- We don't know but we're sure she's protecting herself, these mental barriers are powerful and impenetrable at the moment and we can't get past them, said Shola. And we'd like to know the reason...
- The accident ! said Adred suddenly, his gaze blank.
- The accident ? a trauma," says Astyan.
- Yes, that's right, the accident must have triggered this protective reaction to shield her mind from another crash scene. Because she's been in this kind of accident before, Mitchell said, understanding what they were getting at. But how did you know . . . ?
- She probably wanted to preserve her mind, as you said, to avoid reliving this painful event, said Daniel.
- She'd had an accident before? said a surprised Shola.
- Yes, said Mitchell.
- And she survived too, said Astyan.
- Fascinating, said Adred.
They glared at him, and he became even smaller than he already was.
- Thank you, now that we know what's bothering him, we'll surely be able to help him, concluded Shola.
- When can we see it ? asked Mitchell.
- Not now , said Shola, with the silent agreement of her brother, Astyan.
- She's in a kind of sterile place, Astyan explained. And some of her wounds aren't very pretty to look at.
- Tell me, I've got a question...a bit out of place, said Adred uncomfortably.
Sachia laughed.
- Adred, they've got bigger problems than your crazy questions, growled Astyan.
- Okay, okay, we'll see later, I'll have my answer anyway, assured Adred.
- Now I suggest that some of you rest while others come with the team of technicians trained by Sachia. I'm sure she'll be able to help you too, suggested Shola.
- I won't bother you, I promise, said Sachia, in a hurry. Shall we go?
- Sam, are you ready ? asked Jack.
- Yes, General, said Sam, a little stiffly.
- I'm going with him too, I need to stretch my legs, said Jack C.
- Me too, I'd like to pick up a few things... said Daniel.
- Just a few things, then, not all your luggage, added Jack.
- Just the tablets to show them off, it might help us and convince the Council, swore Daniel.
- Okay, go ahead, accepted Jack, happy to have a few people accompany Sam.
They set off after Sachia, happy to help the SG1 team...
...During the night, in the late afternoon, the team was once again reunited on their own, without the invasive presence of the two brothers and Shola, who found it hard to part with them.
- The damage to the hull is minimal, but the control room is in a deplorable state, Sam summarized, looking away as she imagined Angela's fragile body lying in blood in the devastated room.
Only the inscriptions on the floor had not been damaged, they hadn't even been touched, as if a protective spell had shielded them.
- We don't know anything more, remarked Jack.
- Except they're not neat, said John.
- They're not who they say they are, said Daniel, deep in his papers and more to himself.
- And..., said Jack, seeing that he wasn't explaining himself.
- I don't think they're lying, told Vala, answering for Daniel. you've seen their City, it's all...ancient, southern. But I agree, the men are too beautiful to be human and honest.
- Teal'c pointed out a few things to me when I was studying the tablets at the bottom of each tablet: the thirteen, Daniel continued. I had Sam enlarge them and they were incomprehensible squiggles, but now I know they're arcs of circles. I noticed the same thing when I looked at the ornamentation on a door on the way back from the Council. It was a painting divided into four slightly separate but almost interlocking pieces. Looking at just one of the pieces, it looks very much like these squiggles, and the pieces put together reveal a complex seal.
- And it's the same with tablets, said Cameron.
- Yes, I think so, said Daniel, pulling out the various tablets on the table and the enlargements of the arcs. And now I know the order in which to place them. It's just a question of getting coherent circles. At first, I thought I was missing three pieces to form a complete circle, but no, the biggest one was the one I was able to translate first, which had the planet's address and the word "QUIATUS" written on it in large letters.
- So it's like a puzzle, remarked John, approaching the table.
He immediately thought that Angéla would have found the solution quickly, given her powers of observation. A pall of sadness swept over him.
- I love puzzles! said Vala agitatedly, picking up two tablets to see if they fit together.
After a few minutes, Daniel was pleased with the result. They had succeeded in obtaining a single tablet with a coherent text. They had before them the tablet reunited at last.
They immediately saw the 6 symbols formed by the arcs of a circle surrounded by a larger one. These six symbols were small and located at the intercepts of the various pieces. The largest covered the entire tablet and represented a complex seal.
- This one's the one I saw on the door, said Daniel, pointing to the second one, top right.
- And this is the same as the one on the ship, John observed, pointing to a symbol.
- Indeed, confirmed Teal'c.
- Yes, he's right, and it's the one on the top left, the..., said Vala.
- The first one, said a stunned Mitchell.
- They tell us where to look and in what order," confessed Daniel confidently.
- So we're on the right track and in the right place, said Teal'c.
Silence settled over this revelation for the first time since the start of the mission, and they no longer felt alone in their destiny.
- What's wrong? said Vala, seeing Daniel concentrating.
- This was created by the Ancients, sighed Daniel.
- So what, added Jack. We already know that.
- But everywhere here, there are signs of their past or present presence, said Daniel.
- They don't look like Ancients, remarked Vala.
- Not all of them, but some of them look like them. Like Shola, Adred, Astyan, don't tell me you haven't noticed anything, their behavior, the answers to silent questions. They know the Ancients, I'm sure of it, asserted Daniel.
- Their reaction to the Oriis, said Jack C.
- Pardon? said Daniel, snapping out of his reverie.
- I thought you noticed it too. Didn't you see it?
- Yes, said Jack.
- It's true that I sensed concern when you mentioned it, said Teal'c.
Someone knocked on the door and entered, interrupting their reflection.
- I've come to get you to eat, said Sachia happily, almost jumping up and down.
- Already, said Jack.
- Yes, it's dark, said Sachia, as if this were an obvious explanation.
- Ah yes, it's dark, so let's eat, repeated Mitchell.
- I've had the most exciting day of my life, said Sachia, ignoring Mitchell's remark.
She seemed to be talking to Sam. In fact, she approached him discreetly.
- I'd love to hear your ideas on inertia... said Sachia.
- I think Sam has made a friend, assumed John to Mitchell.
- Yep, and it takes his mind off things. What do you think of this dinner, Daniel, said Jack.
- I don't know, but it can't be worse than the Council.
- That's for sure. Unless we're not welcome, said Mitchell.
They entered a vast dining room. In the middle was a large table filled with food. The room was lit by candles hanging from starry ceilings. Numerous gold-edged paintings decorated the walls, depicting hunting scenes or family portraits. As they entered, silence settled over them, making them nervous. The guests watched them curiously.
- Welcome, began Shola in a clear voice from across the room at the end of the table. Come, we've reserved a place for you with us, earning herself a dark look from Maryl.
Curious glances had not left them for a moment during this exchange. Murmurs began to spring up.
Daniel went first to settle in, followed by the others. They settled in as usual, and the conversation resumed where it had left off.
- Help yourself, said Shola. You may not be used to eating this food, but I assure you it's edible.
The team shyly fills their plates, looking around at the other guests.
- So our mechanics from the Matrix helped you? continued Shola.
- Yes, Sachia has been very perceptive, said Sam. She's been very helpful. In fact, we've only done minor damage, contrary to what we'd originally thought. But I'm afraid I won't be able to repair everything on my own.
- But you've got the manpower, said Sachia.
- And we'll help you too, told Mitchell. Together we'll make it.
- Not without Angéla, finished Sam.
The room fell silent. Everyone was on the lookout.
- Was she your technician? asked Castiel, breaking the silence and sitting down next to Mitchell.
- Not exactly, but the ship is connected to her and she knows it well enough, Mitchell explained.
- Only she can access certain programs on the ship, added Sam.
- So what is she exactly ? asked Shola.
- A soldier, answered O'Neill.
- Of what rank ? asked Adred.
- General, replied O'Neill.
- So women have important places in your world too. It's interesting, up until now we've mostly met barbaric peoples who keep women out of power, said Shola contentedly.
- She's a soldier, but is she just a warrior and what role does she play if she's not a technician ? asked Sachia curiously.
- She's our pilot, she's the only one who can fly the ship, said Daniel.
- Really, said Shola. I'd understood that this position was reserved for men.
- No, in rare cases, replied O'Neill.
- But aren't you? said Shola to Jack.
- Yes, but...
- The device belonged to the Ancients. You need a specific gene to be able to pilot it, and very few people have it, explained Daniel.
- Could I have the... said Vala, taking advantage of the short pause in the conversation.
But she didn't have time to finish her request, as Adred passed her the salt pot.
- And your friend has it, said Adred, ignoring Vala's astonished stammering look of thanks.
- Yes, Angela has them, said Mitchell.
- Angéla, that's pretty, said Astyan.
- I like it too, spoke Shola. General Angela...
- Calling. General Angela Calling, cut John.
- That sounds good, remarked Shola repeating the rank. Don't worry, Angela will be fine, she's a soldier through and through. Thank you, Astyan.
The latter passed him the water carafe.
- Daniel has managed to assemble the tablets with your planet's address, so you can help us, said Vala.
Silence fell again.
- Sorry, but Astyan's got work to do, said Adred.
- Ah, since when ? said Astyan, startled.
- Oh, you don't know yet, Shola wants you to assist Castiel.
- Really ? said Astyan on guard, turning to his sister and then to Castiel.
- Yes, you've already treated her once, and I think a bond has formed between you. If she recognizes you, she'll let you heal her more easily. You've already made contact, said Shola.
- When were you going to tell me ? said Astyan suspiciously.
- I wouldn't have needed it, brother. You would have done it yourself, Shola said, smiling at him.
- Well, I think Shola could take a look at them, as she's done her studies better than we have, and she could take her testimony to the other members of the Council tomorrow. Then they'll have to believe you. There's another session tomorrow where you're invited, isn't there, Maryl ? said Adred.
- Yes, of course, but you don't all have to come this time, said Maryl, seeing Jack's unhappy expression. And I'd like to clarify a few things, as you mentioned that the ship belonged to the Ancients. Doesn't it belong to you?
- No, it doesn't belong to us, admitted Daniel.
- How did you get it then? fly ? asked Maryl, looking at Vala.
- No, some friends found it.
- And if the owners claimed it, what would you do ? asked Maryl.
- It's not possible, they deserted a long time ago, said Daniel.
- And now the ship has changed ownership, recognizing Angela as its master, told Sam.
- Master ? assumed Shola.
- They're in harmony, you could say that Angela and the ship are on the same wavelength, explained Sam.
Then they talked about various subjects such as the habits and customs of their respective planets. Sachia liked to compare them. Once the meal was over, they returned to their suite. Once they were alone,
- They've been fooling us all along, spoke Daniel, deep in thought, his gaze lost in contemplation of the room.
- What do you mean, said Vala.
- They claimed not to know the Ancients or the Oriis, added Daniel.
- Yes, and I felt them react when you named them, said Teal'c. But we've already talked about that.
- Certainly, but I think now after this evening that some of them are Ancients or descendants, explained Daniel.
- Are you sure? asked Jack.
- The sign on the door, said John.
- But it's not just that, there are traces of the Ancients everywhere, even in this room, said Daniel.
They too now contemplated the room, looking at it with new eyes, but noticing nothing in particular.
- There are Atlantean letters in words sometimes, informed Daniel.
- Just like on the fountain, said Vala.
- Yes, and then there's Shola, said Daniel.
- Shola ? said Jack as if Daniel had lost his mind.
- The fact that she's capable of knowing the truth, said Teal'c.
- Yes, and how they behave at the table, Vala remarked.
- Yes, I've noticed too, affirmed Daniel thoughtfully.
- I asked for salt and Adred gave it to me without my asking, and then the three of them had lots of silent exchanges, said Vala.
- You think they read minds like telepathy and that Shola reads minds to know the truth, assumed Mitchell, stunned by this conclusion.
- I don't know, confessed Daniel. Because it can't just be complicity between them.
- It's true that they look like accomplices, said Jack C.
- And Sachia also seemed...I don't know how to say it but as soon as she touched something, the system seemed to recover but it wasn't very noticeable, says Sam. And the ship reacted but not as much as with Angéla, it was more controlled.
- I think their way of communicating is creepy, said Jack C.
- Yeah, Vala admitted.
- I think I can count at least 6 old-timers, maybe 8, remarked Daniel.
- You see who else but the brothers and Shola, said Jack.
- Uriel, Castiel and I think it's only logical that Maryl, Bale and James should be too. They have permanent, important places on the board. They want to control the others, thank Daniel.
- Maryl also seems immune to Shola, Teal'c remarked. And Adred said he hadn't seen anyone other than her presiding over the assembly and they're very old.
- They have an important role to play, of course, and may be immortal, said Mitchell.
-And who are the others ? asked Sam, shivering.
They all knew who she was talking about: the 12 people who had made a sensational entry into the Council. They remained a mystery to the team.
- So they can help us, said Jack in conclusion, breaking the silence.
- Yes, they just don't want to get involved, like all the Ancients we've met, said Daniel.
- Yeah, faithful to their stupid custom, told Vala dejectedly.
- And their oath apparently. Maybe these are the conditions for them to be able to live among us, remarked Daniel.
- What do we do? asked Sam.
- We're repairing the damage to the ship, we're going to have to leave at some point, so John will go with you and we'll do some research, or at least hunt for signs, since they seem to point the way, said Jack, who had taken control of the situation.
- It sounds like a treasure hunt, said Mitchell.
- And what about... the Ancients ? asked Vala.
- Should we tell them we've discovered them ? said John.
- In my opinion, Adred already knows, he knows lots of things, said Daniel.
- Premonition, suggested Jack C.
- No doubt, said Daniel.
- I think they're open to discussion, maybe we can talk to the brothers or Shola directly, told Vala.
- We'll see. Teal'c and Cameron, you go and check on Angéla, continued Jack, handing out the various tasks.
- Astyan said she couldn't have visitors, that she was in a sterile area, Teal'c said.
- Yes, I know, but I still want to hear from her, at least see her, even if it's from a distance, to make sure she's okay, Jack added.
- And as for their identities, I'll find a way of revealing them, remarked Daniel thoughtfully.
- A table, for example, suggested John.
- I don't know...
- Or at the next meeting, said Teal'c.
- Speaking of which, Daniel and I are invited there early tomorrow, sighed Jack.
- I might do it then, mused Daniel.
- Let's do this in the lion's den. Sam and John at the ship, Mitchell and Teal'c, would go to Angela and Vala and Jack would snoop around for signs. You're generally good at it, said Jack.
- And the ship? proposed John.
- I said, let's fix it.
- No, I was talking about other things. It seems to me that our guests are too interested for my liking. They even asked if the owners...well, since they're Ancients, they're the real...
- No chance unless they reveal their identity, said Daniel.
- Or if you do it for them, then they won't have to hide anymore, Vala remarked.
- Yeah, I hadn't thought of that, Jack admitted.
- I don't think they'll be able to get hold of it as I pointed out, it's in contact with Angela, said Sam.
- Unless she dies, said Jack C.
- That won't happen, or at least they won't kill her, it's not their way, added Daniel.
- No, but they can let her die, said John.
- So find tomorrow Cameron and Teal'c, said Jack. And now let's go for a walk, continued Jack to lighten the mood.
- But it's dark, said Vala.
- Ah yes, it's true, it's getting dark fast here, what a shitty planet! sighed a disappointed Jack.
His gaze wandered to the mirror above the fireplace...
...
On the other side of the mirror, Shola watched them. She sighed and turned back to Astyan, her brother, and smiled weakly.
- They're worried, said Shola.
- Normal, said Astyan. Why am I here ?
- You have to help her, if only to reassure them, said Shola.
- What else did he say that's bothering you ? asked Astyan.
- They know about us, said Shola.
- How...
- They're not morons, they're an advanced people, they even managed to pilot the Guerrera, cut Shola.
- They've had a bit of help all the same, said Astyan, looking at Angéla.
- In any case, they have no hostile ideas towards us, said Shola. But let's talk about Angela instead.
- I don't know if it's a good idea for me to look after her, if I do something wrong it could be catastrophic for her, said Astyan.
- And I think that, on the contrary, it will help you, told Shola confidently. I trust you completely.
- And you're the only one, even I have my doubts, sighed Astyan. Well, I'll get started straight away then.
- Very good, good initiative. What do you need ?
- Silence, said Astyan a little curtly.
- Okay, I'll leave you alone, no need to get worked up, said Shola, turning towards the exit.
End of chapter