DESCENT INTO DARKNESS
PART 4
By: Stacy L.
As they approached what appeared to be a small rock
outcropping Jack couldn’t stop his sarcastic response, “This is the
Mehtar was quick to answer, “This is the door to the
Jack hastily jabbed a finger at the outcropping of rock as he continued irritation now vibrating in his voice, “This is the door? This? All I see are some damned rocks, Mehtar.”
“Jack…”
That was Daniel’s voice and as a warm hand covered his shoulder he felt himself calm a bit knowing that Daniel had placed a hand there to calm him or reassure him or just to let him know he was there. He softened his voice a bit feeling fear for Daniel building with each passing moment. He gazed intently at Mehtar before continuing, “How will this help Daniel? There’s nothing here Mehtar and if this cave doesn’t exist there won’t be a map, without a map we can’t find the stones and without the stones…”
He shuddered not able to voice aloud the fate that would befall his friend if they didn’t locate those healing stones.
Mehtar could see fear, worry and sadness in the four now with him. He continued to hold O’Neill’s gaze as he informed, “Things are not always as they seem. Fear not O’Neill for the cave is here. Come.”
Mehtar approached the wall of rocks pulling O’Neill behind him. He said, “Have your people no experience with illusion and misdirection?”
“Well yes but… Wait you’re saying…?”
“We enter here.”
As Mehtar stepped towards the rocks Jack tensed feeling suddenly very anxious. It appeared as if Mehtar had stepped directly into the wall, but as he followed he gazed around in awe before again returning his gaze to a smiling Mehtar who said, “Illusion and magic abound in this world, my friend. We must use such things as misdirection to keep our enemies off balance. We must do so to live and to survive. This is but one gift our god has granted us.”
“Your god?”
“Lord Chandra.”
Daniel jumped suddenly excited as he forged onward, “Your god taught you how to use illusion to…?”
“Survive yes. He is very powerful… Come we must journey further into the cave to find the talking room.”
“The talking room? What is…?”
“It is where many paths cross. It is the first place I
discovered though I was unable to progress much further. There appear to be
doors, many doors and walls adorned with designs. I have been unable to
decipher their true purpose in this place. I only know that this is the
legendary
“And how do you know that?”
“You shall soon have that answer. Come we must go this way.”
The members of SG-1 continued on their journey following Mehtar deeper into the cave. After what seemed like an hour’s trek Mehtar said, “This I believe to be the heart of the cave though I am unsure if it is true. Come.”
As they pursued Mehtar into what he called the heart of the cave all four drew to a halt gazing in awe about them. Daniel was the first to exclaim, “Wow, this is…this is…”
Jack approached Daniel and patted him on the back as he continued, “Truly amazing Danny boy.”
“Yes. Uh, Mehtar what…? How…?”
Mehtar gazed at the young man seeing wonder and excitement
in his eyes and feeling disturbed when he could see the young one was much
worse than any of them had realized. He was very pale and appeared sickly. He
looked as if he were about to collapse from exhaustion, yet he stood tall and
proud gazing in open admiration at the cavern around them. As the light caught
the silver of the collar he now wore Mehtar felt despair and outrage encroach
upon him. Here stood a young man who was obviously full of spirit, intelligence
and compassion who was now waging a battle to hold onto those very things. If
he had just defended the young man, warned the visitors of the dangers of this
place then he would now be safe. They would all be safe, but he hadn’t and now
they had to go on a perilous journey to save one man’s soul. Realizing he
hadn’t answered the young man’s question he tried, “I do not know what the
source of this light is. It is called the
“Like a repository. Like…”
Daniel turned to Jack, his excitement building as he continued, “Jack this is like Chimera. What if Chandra built this place to house knowledge that the people of this world have to advance to like Thor did with his people? It would make sense. Perhaps even Chandra is of the Asgard.”
“Daniel, you don’t know that…” interrupted Sam.
Daniel continued, “No, but what if, what if that’s what this is?”
Teal’c added to the conversation, “Perhaps the Chandrakanta stone is like the device the Asgard use to pilot their ships…”
Sam jumped in, “Yes, a stone that works like the Goa’uld healing device…”
Mehtar became confused as he questioned, “Goa’uld healing device? Who are these…Goa’uld?”
“A race of…”
Jack perked up immediately saying Carter’s name in warning before waving his finger at her. She gazed at him for several minutes before changing her topic, “Where is this map that can help Daniel?”
Mehtar glanced from Jack to Carter still curious about the Goa’uld but pushing such inquiries aside as he prepared to help the young one, “Daniel…”
“Yes Mehtar?”
“Come here.”
Daniel approached him catching Mehtar’s sudden glance at the collar he now wore. He immediately reached for it running his fingers across the silvery surface and swallowing hard as he recalled how this device was the only thing keeping him from turning into a monster. As Mehtar drew his gaze to the wall and began chatting amicably Daniel lowered his hand again and focused on what the man was saying, “There are many doors in here. Each has different designs on their surfaces. I cannot read any of these. Perhaps you can.”
Daniel smiled nodding before focusing his gaze on the door before him noticing symbols etched into the surface of it but unable to make sense of what it meant so he questioned, “Each door has drawings or writings like these on their surfaces?”
“Yes.”
“Okay let’s see if there are any I can understand.”
He continued to walk to each door studying each marking in depth hoping to make sense of them. He tossed over his shoulder, “Mehtar, have you ever managed to open any of these?”
“No I have not. I had hoped that you could do so.”
“Give me some time to think… Wait I think… I think I found something… You said that Chandra is the one who protects you?”
“Yes.”
Daniel continued to study the wall before him as his mind tossed that name around for a bit. He remembered several references to Chandra as a moon god and a highly respected deity but as Jack spoke his name he lifted his head finding his mind toying with other thoughts that were more than a little bit distracting. He closed his eyes as Jack stopped directly behind him inhaling deeply his friend’s manly scent and feeling heat stirring in his midsection. Oh God, did that man ever smell good! He silenced his thoughts immediately yelling at himself to stay focused and trying to block out the many fantasies of Jack his mind decided to play for him. Oh my God! He softly moaned jumping when Jack spoke much too close to him, “Are you all right, Daniel? Do you need to rest?”
Oh he was just fine. Rest? He didn’t need rest what he
needed was to resist these damned wants and urges deep inside that kept trying
to push him into Jack O’Neill’s arms. Shit, give it up
Jack leaned in closer instantly becoming aware of Daniel being more than just a friend. He was a man and he desired to do more with this particular man then was possible. He inhaled sharply as Daniel’s manly scent filled him and teased him luring him to sample what was not rightfully his. He cursed as he silently chastised himself. Daniel was desirable yes but right now he was in danger of losing his very soul to the evil of this world. Now he had to focus on helping Daniel not getting him naked and onto his back as fast as he could. He cleared his throat before asking, “Uh, what is that?”
Focusing on the etchings before him and blocking out the tempting man behind him Daniel responded, “Uh, it’s a mandala.”
“A manda…what?”
“A mandala.”
“And that is what exactly?”
“Hindu.”
“Hindu? And this is significant how?”
“Because Chandra is Hindu, Jack.”
“Right…”
Daniel smiled gently finding he was very glad to have something to distract him from his desire to lavish Jack O’Neill. He softly chided his friend, “Don’t you remember anything I tell you Jack?”
“I remember everything you tell me Daniel, regardless of what others may say. You mentioned Chandra and Hindu before when Mehtar told us the legend of Usher and…”
“Ushas.”
Jack cast Daniel a furtive glance as he corrected himself, “Ushas earlier…”
“Yes I did.”
“So how does this help us?”
Daniel began his explanation, “A mandala is considered
sacred. They’re still drawn today in
“
Daniel smiled as he answered, “Yes Jack.”
“Okay so…”
“Mandala’s are complex sacred diagrams; they’re drawings that are used in meditation.”
Jack gazed at his friend again, wondering how Daniel could hold so much in that brain and then be able to retrieve it when needed. He questioned, “In meditation? Daniel?”
“You meditate on them. You look at them; you study them following them usually from the center out, but it works either way.”
Jack became puzzled by that last comment and asked, “The center out? Why?”
“I’m getting to that.”
“Daniel…”
“Yantras are similar to mandalas in that…”
“Yantras? Uh, Daniel…”
Instead of acknowledging him Daniel continued his explanation, “You can also study them. People use them as a focus. Mandalas are depictions of the universe, of the cosmos, of the gods, of all the forces that drive nature. As you study it a person can find a deeper meaning in things…”
Again Jack interrupted trying to understand what purpose a mandala served, “A deeper meaning? By looking at some…drawings? Right. Daniel?”
He paused gazing at Jack, seeing that expression on Jack’s face that read ‘information overload’ and smiled as he softly questioned, “What?”
“Can this…?”
“Mandala.”
Jack cast him a brief irritated gaze before continuing, “Help us at all?”
“Yes I believe it can.”
“Good then can you…do whatever it is you need to do to open this door?”
Daniel chuckled before answering, “Jack, you can’t just wish a door open you have to…”
Jack reached out to touch the mandala pressing a finger to the center and jumping back as the writing seemed to grow brighter, more intense before the door opened. Jack grinned impishly at Daniel who was now glowering at him. He casually shrugged his shoulders before extending his arm and urging, “After you.”
Daniel continued to glare at Jack who was grinning like an idiot. His only reply was a brisk, “And you always yell at me about touching things…”
“Ah Daniel, don’t be like that. I…”
“Hmmph, let’s go.”
“Daniel, Daniel… Okay, okay you can touch whatever you like on the next planet we gate to I promise.”
Daniel turned to Jack still glaring at him not giving him an edge and allowing several tense moments to stretch between them before informing, “I’m holding you to that O’Neill,” then turned and walked cautiously ahead.
Jack chuckled before calling for Daniel to wait up. When he reached Daniel he teased, “Hey, you’re my slave. When I say wait up that’s exactly what you do.”
Again Daniel glowered at him before responding, “Jack, don’t be an ass.”
Enjoying the friendly little banter Jack teased, “That would be master to you, slave.”
Daniel elbowed him before they both started laughing. Daniel then drew to a halt looking around as if for someone before saying, “Wait, are Sam and Teal’c…?”
“We’re coming,” came Sam’s cheery voice.
She was glad to hear the typical banter between her friends knowing that it always helped to lighten the mood and keep everyone in good spirits, despite the difficult circumstances they often found themselves in.
Daniel released a quick, “Uh sorry,” before his attention was returned to what lay ahead of them. She could see the excitement in him. The eagerness to see what Mehtar had told them of and the desire to explore in his sparkling eyes. Daniel was still very much with them, and she was very glad for that. She nodded in understanding before saying, “No problem.”
Jack watched his other two comrades approach then questioned, “Where’s Mehtar?”
“I am here.”
“Good. All right we stick together. Be on alert for…”
Daniel chimed in, “Booby traps…”
“And…”
Daniel held his mouth in a grim line before continuing, “Other nasty stuff.”
Jack paused before saying, “Other nasty stuff? Daniel…”
“Remember our discussion earlier Jack? The one about the seven entrances and the seven gates that led into the lower world?”
“Well yeah but…”
“In case you didn’t notice back there, there were seven doors to choose from. Seven doors, seven different entrances.”
As if understanding suddenly dawned Jack nodded before commenting, “So we should be on alert for…monsters did you say?”
“Nedu to be exact.”
Teal’c added, “The Queen of Battles.”
“Yes.”
“So we should really be on the alert for some crazy bitch who has evil on her side.”
Daniel held Jack’s gaze for several tense moments before adding, “Well, it is just a myth we’re talking about…”
“Oh and we all know how unreal those myths are.”
“Yes.”
Jack nodded before adding, “Stay close to one another. Be on alert for…” and stopped in mid-sentence when a pained yelp filled the air. He was instantly at Daniel’s side supporting him as Daniel suddenly latched onto his lower arm and squeezed. The grip was strong and hurt like hell, but he refused to complain seeing the obvious pain stretched across his friend’s taut features. He waited until Daniel seemed to visibly relax before suggesting, “Maybe you should wait outside, Daniel.”
Daniel shook his head immediately as he said, “No, no. You may need me. I’m all right. It’s passed. I’m all right.”
Jack continued to watch him with a critical assessing gaze before saying, “Until the pain returns again.”
They locked gazes each understanding what those words meant. Daniel only nodded before continuing, “I’ll be fine. I need to go with you, and I need to keep busy. If I’m alone I could still feed on…other living creatures.”
“Not when you’re wearing that collar…”
“I’d rather not take the chance, Jack. I need to be with you.”
“You need to rest.”
“No, no I don’t. If I rest then all I have to focus on IS that pain, Jack. Please. Let’s just continue.”
“Daniel…”
“Jack, please.”
He sighed not liking it but agreeing with Daniel. If his friend could keep his mind focused elsewhere then the pain wouldn’t be as noticeable for him. He yielded to Daniel’s request and together they continued traveling deeper into the cave.
After walking for some time Jack questioned, “Um Mehtar where is this map you spoke of?”
“It was recorded in the old stories that the map exists in this cave.”
“Have you ever actually seen this map?”
“No but if the
“And if it doesn’t?”
Sam quietly hissed, “Colonel!” noticing Daniel’s shoulders slumping forward a bit in response to the comment.
The moment Sam spoke Jack realized what he had said and quickly apologized to his young friend saying that they would find the map, but instead of cheering Daniel up he started to worry more, “You know if we don’t find it you’ll have to let me go, Jack.”
“NO!”
“I can’t go home again, not ever unless I’m healed. We have to face the reality that I may never be ‘normal’ again.”
Jack determinedly responded with a simple, “I’m not leaving you.”
“You may not have a choice, Jack. You need to get Sam and Teal’c to safety. If you take me with you then everyone will suffer. You have to accept that I may never be…the same again.”
“Don’t talk like that Daniel. We’ll find that map. We’ll find the stone, and we’ll get you back completely. I’m not giving up on you, so don’t you dare give up on us.”
Daniel smiled tenderly before assuring, “I won’t Jack and…thank you.”
Jack and Daniel fell silent both turning towards Mehtar when he began to speak excitedly, “Come. Come!”
“What? Mehtar what’s…?”
“It is here. It is here. Come.”
All four quickly followed their guide drawing to a halt inside a darkened room lit up by a very complex map of the planet. Jack felt his own excitement growing as he anxiously questioned, “Is that…?”
“This planet? Yes. See we are here.”
Mehtar proceeded to point out their location on the map and as he continued to study it his eyes quickly found what must be the locations of the sacred healing stones. He prepared to point them out when Jack interrupted, “Does it say anything about…?”
“The sacred stones are here beyond this valley. Some reside in mountain lakes others in ponds…”
Daniel added breathlessly amazed that they had found what they sought, “Just like in the myth.”
Mehtar nodded smiling brightly as he answered, “Yes.”
Jack gazed at the map before pointing to an area marked clearly with an altar, around the altar were drawn representations of the phases of the moon. Above the altar was sketched a bright star whose rays fell upon the altar and encompassed it. He felt suddenly certain that particular feature drawn on this particular map meant something and asked, “What’s this here?”
Daniel answered, “An altar…for moon worship perhaps or maybe to show respect to Chandra? In Ancient Greece they used to build temples for the gods to show their respect and to honor the deities. Perhaps this altar is intended to honor the moon god.”
Mehtar shook his head saying, “This is where you must take your friend to perform the healing ceremony.”
“To an altar? Why? How is an altar going to help Daniel?”
“It is a sacred altar to, as your friend has said, honor Lord Chandra. You must take him there.”
Jack nodded studying the map longer hoping and praying that this meant those healing stones were out there and that their journey wasn’t a useless attempt to save someone who couldn’t be saved. He wouldn’t give up on Daniel. He was determined to help his friend and if that were impossible then he would stay with Daniel and remain by his side for the rest of his days. He wasn’t about to allow Daniel to stay on this planet alone. He wouldn’t abandon his friend ever!
Sam retrieved Daniel’s video camera for him and shot the footage for her friend earning a grateful smile from him in the process. After exploring the cavern further and coming up with little else they decided to return to the main hall to see if they could open any other “doors” there.
Once back to the main hall Daniel excused himself and exited the cave to relieve himself in private. Jack decided to follow him to make certain he was all right. He was also fearful that the pain would return and his friend might not have the strength to return to the cave if that occurred. He watched Daniel from a small distance allotting him privacy. Daniel looked up as he began his approach saying, “You followed me.”
“I was worried about you. You shouldn’t be out here alone, and you shouldn’t be facing this alone.”
Daniel smiled softly as he answered, “But I’m not alone, Jack. You’re here.”
“Yes and I don’t intend to leave you.”
“Thanks Jack.”
“You don’t have to thank me.”
“Sure I do.”
“Nah what are friend’s for?”
Daniel nodded watching Jack as he nervously glanced into the darkening sky above. Daniel picked up on Jack’s sudden unease and suggested, “I think it’s time we returned to the cave.”
“Yeah, yes I would agree. I…”
Daniel cried out tensing and paling as he sensed the fast approach of some unnatural force of nature. Jack also picking up on the strange vibes lowered his voice accordingly, “Daniel?”
Instead of looking at him Daniel continued to carefully scan the surrounding area setting every single internal alarm of Jack’s off as he quietly informed, “We’re being watched.”
“What?”
Automatically, he also began scanning the area carefully, slowly. Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. Nothing was really moving and no sounds could be heard. It was quiet, silent… It was almost too silent for his liking. He focused on his friend when Daniel gasped and immediately placed a hand on Daniel’s shoulder feeling him shuddering beneath his touch and growing extremely worried.
Daniel lowered his voice further as he heard the whispers of a thousand voices in his mind, one still stronger than all the others. She was calling to him again, attempting to lure him to her and trap him. He shuddered in revulsion clenching his eyes shut as he pressed his hands to his head and moaned softly. He stayed like that for what seemed like hours before opening his eyes yet again and warning, “They’re close, Jack. We’re no longer alone. They want me Jack. They’re coming for me.”
Speaking with determination and again glancing anxiously around them he urged Daniel into movement stating, “Well they can’t have you. You’re mine.”
“Yes but that doesn’t mean it’ll stop them from pursuing…”
“I marked you with that collar. They shouldn’t be interested in you still…”
Drawing to a halt once again Daniel hesitantly informed, “But they are Jack. They are.”
“Why?”
Daniel lowered his head before putting voice to a fear he had been keeping to himself, “Until I feed I’m still good as a food source, Jack.”
Jack jerked his head up snapping, “What the hell…?”
“I’m still somewhat… I’m not completely changed yet. The collar it…it seems to have slowed down the changes within me. I’m a vampire, but I’m also still…ME.”
“Daniel…”
Daniel snapped his head up in alarm as the air about them seemed to vibrate with a sinister purpose behind it and reported, “Jack they’re coming.”
“Daniel…”
Sensing the others drawing closer and preparing for attack he hastily informed, “We have to get out of sight. NOW JACK!”
Mehtar glanced at the young man, having followed he and his friend outside, and heard his warning adding to it, “If he says we must hide then we must do so now.”
“Why?”
Daniel released a soft whimper to the air before pressing his hands to either side of his head causing Mehtar to become further alarmed and order, “We must go now!”
“What? Why?”
“They are speaking to him. He cannot yet block their voices. Do not delay.”
Understanding the need for immediate action Jack began to survey the area for a safe place to hide while inquiring, “Where do we…?” before Daniel suggested in a pain-laced voice, “Cave…go into the cave!”
“We must go.”
Mehtar started to tug on Jack’s arm urging him to come, but he refused to move and when he saw that Daniel wasn’t following he said, “Daniel…”
Daniel raised his head his eyes sparking blue opalescent fire as he ordered, “GO!” before a vampire dropped out of the air on top of him sending Daniel crashing to his knees. Jack felt his heart leaping into his throat as the vampire proceeded to bare his teeth preparing to sink them into the tender flesh of his best friend’s neck. He froze unaware that Mehtar was now dragging him to the cave. The last thing he saw was Daniel growling before turning on his attacker and clawing his face open.
As they entered the cave he caught a startled gaze of Sam’s and quickly explained, “Vampires…outside attacking.”
“Daniel?”
“They…they have him.”
“WHAT? But…”
She fell silent and they turned to gaze at the cave exit when loud growls rent the air followed closely by the sounds of a fight taking place beyond them. Teal’c hearing the sounds of struggle prepared to aid his young friend and ran out of the cave, firing his staff weapon at the three vampires who were trying and failing to subdue a snarling, kicking, flailing Daniel Jackson. Soon the sounds of screeching and screaming flooded the air as two of his attackers were injured. The third gave up and pursued the two injured leaving Daniel alone and trembling in a balled up heap.
Seeing his friend in distress Teal’c ran to him and pulled Daniel into his embrace. As Daniel shivered in his arms he tightened his grip protectively refusing to release Daniel until he was calm again. Once Daniel began settling he inquired, “Are you injured?”
“No, no…just…shakin’…I’m just a little shakin’ up Teal’c. Thank…thank you. Jack? Where’s Jack? Did he…?”
“He is safe. Mehtar dragged him into the cave shortly after the fighting began.”
“Thank God! He wanted to stay Teal’c and if he had I…I don’t know if I could’ve protected… I’m glad he’s safe.”
Teal’c nodded his head in understanding before carefully scanning his friend for injury. He noticed several scratches and bruises as well as a small scratch on Daniel’s neck. Daniel shuddered as he noticed Teal’c gazing at his vulnerable throat and quickly explained, “Until I change completely I’m still a valuable food source, Teal’c. They can still feed from me because I’m still human. I haven’t completed the transformation yet so I’m…still on the menu. Plus feeding off of me will make me weaker and therefore susceptible. I’ll be much easier to capture if I can’t resist due to being weakened.”
“We will not allow them to harm you Daniel Jackson.”
“They want me to turn and they want me to join them, Teal’c. What if…what if…?”
“Do not worry yourself my friend. We will help you. We will get through this.”
“But what if…?”
“We will defend you to the death Daniel Jackson.”
“No. I don’t want you to risk…”
“That choice is not yours to make, my friend.”
Daniel tensed knowing that Teal’c was correct even though he didn’t like it. He could yell at them all he wanted, but they’d probably still fight to protect him and keep him safe. He shook his head determined to make certain that none of his friends died in a useless cause. If they couldn’t find the Chandrakanta stones he would have to leave them and vanish from their lives. He would have to disappear and never return again.
* *
Daniel awoke several hours later only to realize that he had drifted asleep sometime after Teal’c had brought him inside after the attack. As he glanced around he noticed it was now dark beyond the cave entrance and could see his friends had a warm fire going. He watched silently as Jack turned to look at him, smiling before standing to approach him. He returned the smile and continued to quietly observe his friend.
As he continued to watch Jack he became suddenly aware that he was very much aroused and knew what the source of his sudden arousal was: Jack O’Neill. As he raked a predatory gaze across his friend’s sensual physique, Jack seemed to start breathing heavier and nervously licked his lips. Daniel groaned in response noticing Jack clearing his throat before lowering in front of him and asking, “How are you doing? Do you want something to drink or…?”
Tossing Jack a heated intense gaze Daniel gruffly responded, “I want to fuck you, Jack.”
Jack flushed as his young friend spoke those words feeling both shocked and aroused by the confession. He flushed further as he noticed Daniel focusing intently on his groin with a seductive leer before he continued to coyly inform, “And I think you want me to fuck you too.”
He tensed as Daniel’s fingers glided softly across his chest feeling his mouth drying in response only managing a hoarse, “Daniel…” before taking a slight step backwards.
“Come to me Jack…”
He jerked his head up as he swore that Daniel spoke in his
head and not aloud. He swallowed harder feeling extremely hot and nervous,
tensing when that sultry voice whispered in his mind again setting his heart to
racing, “Please come to me Jack. I need you…”
He stared at Daniel as he realized the voice WAS in his head. Shit, what the hell was Daniel doing inside his head? He continued to observe Daniel noticing that he was very attractive and seemed to be panting. Shit, what the hell was going on? Why did he suddenly feel as if Daniel were seducing him both mentally and physically? He closed his eyes momentarily, snapping them open when Daniel cried out. As he focused on the man he noticed that Daniel now had his hands clamped firmly over each ear and approached Daniel faintly hearing Mehtar’s warning not to approach him now. As he touched Daniel the young man jerked his head up staring at him in mass confusion before leaning forward and brushing his lips with his own sending Jack’s every nerve on end. He licked his lips feeling burning arousal continuing to build upon such a shy sampling and found that he desperately yearned to make love with Daniel.
Jack hesitated as his every impulse urged him to take his friend into his arms and make love to him slowly and passionately. He gasped as Daniel reached up to press his fingers against his lips cocking his head to the side as if to study the one he was presently trying to seduce. He saw open invitation in Daniel’s eyes and knew that if he wanted to take Daniel at that moment his friend would not be opposed. He wanted to accept the invitation but stayed his hand as he softly inquired, “Daniel, what are you doing?”
Daniel watched Jack feeling a desperate need and yearning for the man before him. The heat in his loins was begging to be cooled by Jack’s delicious fire but it wasn’t right, this whole thing wasn’t right so he forced himself not to act on his instincts saying, “Can’t…can’t do this, not right. Not me, can’t… Help me Jack. Please. It’s winning; she’s winning.”
Fear began to replace his desire cooling his lust for his friend. He sharply retorted, “Oh the hell she is!” before wasting precious little time wrapping his arms around his friend and holding him close. He was a bit startled when Daniel immediately wrapped his own arms around him as he started to quiver. Jack became fearful asking, “Daniel? Daniel, what…?” and paling as Daniel threw his head back releasing a pain laced scream to the air. He knew, sensed, that Daniel was in immense pain so he started to carefully run his hands up and down across his friend’s back only relaxing when he felt the tension subsiding within him.
Mehtar spoke loudly, clearly, “You must release him.”
“Oh the hell I will!”
“He is seducing you.”
Daniel ground out, “Please don’t Jack…shit…it hurts. Mehtar, what the hell is happening?”
“The darkness within is growing. It wants to feed and wants to persuade you to take your first bite.”
Daniel gritted his teeth, fighting against the painful twisting in his gut as he bit out, “OH the hell I will! Shit, does it…does it…will it subside?”
Mehtar watched the young man whose face was now scrunched up in pain and knew that he was fighting the lure of the beast within. The evil within wanted him to feed, to feed and to mate but he was continuing to resist the lure, which was unfortunately adding to his pain. He shook his head again awed by the strength of the young one finding he couldn’t answer the simple question asked of him truthfully so he settled for, “I do not know. I have never witnessed another fight against the evil as you now are. I wish I could give you a better answer, but I fear I do not know. I am sorry.”
Daniel managed a nod continuing to clench his teeth together and cling to his friend. Jack held him trying to soothe him the best he could with words and touch as the pain continued to maintain its cruel grip on him.
* *
Later That Night…
As he jolted awake Daniel gazed around confused as to where he was and suddenly realizing he wasn’t alone. Someone was with him, holding him. As he glanced at the one whose arms he resided in he suddenly recalled what had happened. Pain, the pain had returned and he nearly crumpled under the onslaught. Jack was there to hold and comfort him. Apparently he had drifted asleep in Jack’s arms and Jack had likewise drifted asleep, still holding him. He smiled softly, glad that he wasn’t completely alone, that he was among friends who were willing to help him get through this trying time. Turning to glance around him he noticed that the others were resting peacefully as well and decided to slip away for a few moments of solitude. Carefully extracating himself from Jack’s protective embrace without waking the slumbering man Daniel drew to his feet and quietly made his way to the cave entrance.
Certain that the vampire wouldn’t return to these parts a second time he stepped out into the cool night air feeling relatively safe. He walked a short distance from the cave to stand out under the stars trying to make sense of his sudden need and longing for Jack O’Neill. Why the hell was he suddenly on fire for his best friend? Yes, he had desired Jack in the past. There was no denying that fact. He had been drawn to Jack from the beginning, but managed to keep his feelings private knowing that Jack would never reciprocate. He learned to accept that there could never be anything between them other than a close friendship, and he thought he had been content with that. Then the feelings began again, and he found himself actually taking steps towards seducing the man. He had kissed Jack earlier and had he not stopped himself he would have made love to Jack. He had been thrown off guard by Jack’s responses to him and had to rein in his strength to keep from answering that desire reflected in those dark chocolate brown eyes, but now they haunted him. He had seen desire in those eyes, desire for him. Jack wanted him but he could never give Jack what he wanted, especially not now when his body wasn’t even completely his. He had to destroy the evil within before even considering pursuing those haunting questions he now had about Jack’s wants and needs.
He gazed up at the quarter moon shining brightly above noting how eerie it looked. The moon seemed almost…alive. It was eerie and beautiful at the same time. He felt as if he were being watched by that moon, but the notion was completely absurd. He shook his head smiling to himself as he pushed those bizarre thoughts away. The story about the moon god had him thinking like that. There was no truth to that myth…or was there? He didn’t know, but he found that the moon was constantly drawing his attention.
He turned his head slightly upon hearing the soft crunching behind him…feet upon grass trying to approach silently. He knew it was Jack. Before Jack approached he said, “I’m all right. I just needed some air.”
Silence answered his statement. He continued to smile as he said, “Jack, I know you’re there. I can hear you and…smell your blood.”
As his friend approached Daniel turned to gaze at him catching the gleam of surprise sparkling in Jack’s eyes before he said, “Daniel, how…? I mean…”
“I don’t know, Jack. It’s part of this…curse. I can hear things, see things and smell things I never could before. I seem to have developed hypersensitivity to just about everything. It’s very strange. I don’t…”
Sensing that Daniel was feeling a bit upset he quickly approached placing a caring hand onto his shoulder as he softly informed, “You’re not alone Daniel and we’ll help you with this. You just have to be patient and hang in there.”
“I am. I am but it’s so hard Jack. Do you have any idea how it feels to be desperately hungry and know that food is just out of your reach? Do you know how it feels to want to take a bite, a small sampling of that food but know that to do so will damn your very soul? It’s torture Jack. It’s pure hell.”
“It’ll soon be over.”
“If we don’t find those stones… I’ll die Jack. If I don’t eat then I’ll die and if I change into one of those…things then I’ll be happy to leave this life. I’m already growing weak, Jack. I might not even be able to make this trip. We’ve only journeyed to the cave. We saw the map but haven’t even started searching for the Chandrakanta stone. I don’t know how long I’ll be able to keep going, and I don’t want to make any of you vulnerable to attack. I need to remain strong. I need to keep going, but even I know that my strength is fading quickly. It’s only been a short time, and I’m already having difficulty remaining upright. I get shaky and lightheaded often and I’m always tired, Jack. I’m so tired Jack, but I fear that if I fall asleep the darkness will come and claim me. I can’t let that happen, Jack. I just can’t. If we don’t find this stone then I’m…”
“We’ll find the stone Daniel. We will. I promise.”
“Jack, please don’t make a promise that you may not be able to keep.”
“Daniel…”
He prepared to answer Jack but suddenly tensed feeling a current thrumming through his body as the voices began again like a thousand crystals shattering at once. He knew what was happening and silently cursed himself for not picking up on them sooner. He had to warn Jack and the others. He turned to face his friend before gasping, “Shit, Jack…JACK!”
Jack jerked his head up in response to Daniel’s voice catching the hint of fear in it that made him focus completely on him as he questioned, “What? What is it?”
“They’re coming again.”
“WHAT? Shit, Daniel…”
He drew to a halt when Daniel suddenly lowered his head pressing his hands against his temples, a move he had seen Daniel make the last time they came. He questioned, “Daniel, what’s wrong?”
“They’re scanning…”
“With you?”
“Voices Jack. I hear them in my head. Hers…hers is the loudest.”
“Hers?”
“The one who tried to bind me to her. I haven’t figured out how to silence them yet and they just… It’s like incessant chattering as if…”
“They’re trying to confuse you?”
“Maybe… I…I don’t know but… Shit! They’re almost here. GO, JACK!”
He turned only to see one of the vampires suddenly drop down before him. He jumped back glancing at Daniel noticing there was another one behind his friend. So as not to alarm Daniel and further heighten his anxiety he said, “Uh, Daniel…they’re here.”
At that moment Daniel attacked momentarily stunning Jack before he regained his focus and began fighting their attackers. As a familiar scream pierced the air Jack forced himself to continue fighting, firing his weapon, fearful for his friend but knowing that to stop now would mean a quick defeat for them both. They fought but the vampire continued to come at them, surrounding them and just when he thought for sure they would be defeated the vampire abruptly left the area. As quickly as they had appeared they had vanished into the night sky.
When he was certain that they were once again alone he focused his full attention on Daniel. As he gazed at his friend he noticed he was breathing heavy, still upright but pressing his hands to his temples. He rushed to Daniel’s side prepared to offer him aid when Daniel informed, “They’re being called back,” before his legs would no longer support him and he began a downward spiral to the ground. Jack reacted reflexively catching his friend just before he had a painful impact with the ground beneath him.
He pulled Daniel against him uttering soft words, “Whoa, whoa, whoa buddy relax. You’re all right, Daniel. You’re all right.”
“Jack…” came Daniel’s harsh breathless reply, “My head really hurts… Jack?” before he lost consciousness. Jack scooped him up into his arms and carried him into the shelter of the cave catching worried and concerned glances from his other two teammates before Mehtar approached and urged Jack to lay Daniel carefully down. Sam quickly spread out a blanket before Jack settled his young friend on the covers.
Mehtar carefully examined Daniel before focusing on the Colonel, his expression somewhat grim but still positive as he informed, “He is not injured, but he is weak. How he fought your attackers off I do not know. His energy is quickly fading.”
“Why?” but Jack already knew why he just needed to hear it from someone else and Mehtar answered, “He has not eaten. He cannot keep regular food down and he refuses to drink the blood of others, even animals. I fear malnourishment is partly responsible. He is also struggling to keep water in his system. He needs that to survive as well but has been unable to drink more than a few swallows at a time. I fear exhaustion was the cause of his unconsciousness. He is resting.”
“Will he be all right?”
“For now yes. But he can only continue on without food or water several more days at the most. I fear that there will come a time when he will slip into unconsciousness and remain so for several days unless he soon eats.”
Jack kneeled beside his young friend smoothing the hair back off of his forehead noticing how much he physically deteriorated in such a short time. He focused on Mehtar asking, “Is there much more here that needs investigated?”
“Colonel, there is a lot more here yet undiscovered, but we have precious little time to explore further. Your friend needs the magical healing stone. At the rate that he is deteriorating I fear he will be gone in but a few short days. He cannot control his hunger indefinitely. Soon he will feed and he will have no control over it. We must hurry.”
“So should we leave now?”
“No, no. To travel at night is very dangerous. We will remain in the cave and rest here for the night. We will be safe.”
“Do you think they’ll attack again?”
“Given time? Yes. It is unusual for them to attack twice in one evening. They want your friend very badly. We must keep him inside for the remainder of the night. He will no doubt sleep. You must also rest. All of you will be safe here.”
After some minor debate they settled for Mehtar’s suggestion deciding to spend the night in the cave and allow Daniel time to regain some of his former strength. In the morning they would continue on their journey for the mystical stone and hopefully it wouldn’t take long to locate and retrieve one.
Next:
Feedback to: bluebirdstears@yahoo.com
Copyright©2004-2014 Midnightstorms.net
All Rights Reserved.