Friends and Enemies Part 9

By: Stacy L.

Captain Conner cursed. Shit, he was being ordered to General Hammond's office. SHIT! Did they know? How could they know? He'd been so careful. He knew the risks should he be pinned as being involved in Doctor Jackson's disappearance. Shit! Could they really have figured out his small connection to this whole thing? He hoped not. Damn it, what a mess this turned out to be! He was simply supposed to keep Jackson's whereabouts secret and to update Levinson on any progress the SGC made in locating the young archaeologist. His job was simple, but he was now connected to Doctor Jackson's disappearance and, to make matters so much worse, he was connected to Janet Fraiser's abduction as well. Shit! He aided in both abductions. Hell, he was the one who abducted Fraiser. He would surely suffer for his aiding and abetting of both of those crimes. It was bad enough that his guilt over his participation in those particular acts was plaguing him with nightmares. He had willingly handed two of the nicest people he knew over to an enemy who only desired to inflict pain upon them. What made his guilt increase was knowing that no matter how much they suffered they would both forgive him. That was just the way Doctor Fraiser and Doctor Jackson were, and he didn't deserve their forgiveness...ever. Damn it! He paused before entering his superior's office working on calming himself. Hammond would easily pick up on his feelings of guilt and shame if he wasn't careful.

Conner entered General Hammond's office trying his best to conceal his nervousness and anxiety. If General Hammond suspected that he was involved in those abductions in any way he had to protect his ass by acting as if he hadn't a clue. Conner glanced up as Hammond replied casually, "Have a seat, Captain."

Well, here goes nothing! He had to try his hardest to act clueless. He had to or he would suffer...of course maybe he deserved to suffer. He shook those thoughts aside as his instinct for self-preservation kicked in, but no matter how hard he tried to conceal his guilt from the General he still couldn't cleanse his mind of that one image that would forever be burned in his memory. He would never forget seeing Doctor Jackson with his hands secured above him bleeding heavily from a brutally lashed back. He would never rid his mind of the image of all that blood that had been lying at the man's feet and had been covering his body. His hands were permanently stained with Daniel Jackson's blood for he had helped Levinson torture the man by remaining silent. Knowing that he was partly responsible for such a horrible beating made it very difficult to remember just exactly why it was he had to lie to the General about his knowledge of those abductions. He didn't speak until he felt certain he could do so without revealing anything. He questioned, "Sir, what's this about?"

General Hammond stared intently at the man taking a seat before him. He noticed the man seemed anxious. Could Major Carter's suspicions be correct? Could the man now sitting before him really have participated in Daniel or Janet's abductions? Better yet if he had then why? Why would he so willingly participate in such crimes? Why? Hammond hoped that his assumption was just that, but he still had to pursue the issue further. He answered, "Captain, I have been hearing stories regarding certain members of this facility...aiding the enemy."

Shit! Okay, Conner, act casual...

He attempted to perfect a very confused look as he asked, "Excuse me, sir?"

"Let's just get right down to business, shall we?"

"Sir?"

"Captain, where is she?"

"Excuse me, sir, but..."

"Where is Doctor Fraiser, Captain?"

Captain Conner focused intently on General Hammond not liking being placed on the spot. Okay, he had to remain calm. The General was simply grasping at straws. There was no evidence to indicate that he was even remotely involved. He was still nervous and struggled to keep the shakiness out of his comment as he responded, "I...I...I don't know, sir."

Hammond watched Conner to see his reactions and responses to such an accusation. The man was most definitely very nervous, but did that mean he was hiding something or just got flustered when someone with authority was in the room? Hammond hoped the reactions weren't due to guilt, but as the man stuttered to answer where Doctor Fraiser was Hammond got a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. Something about the man wasn't right; something just didn't feel right. Shit, could he really be involved in...? No, no...but it seemed very plausible now. Hammond felt angry when he thought of Conner possibly knowing where both Fraiser and Jackson were. Damn it, how could the man be involved in both of those disappearances? He knew how desperately the SGC was searching for Jackson and knew the man was obviously in danger, yet could he willingly cover up where the man was being held if he knew? God, Hammond hoped not. He could feel his stomach knotting up. Would anyone willingly sacrifice members of the SGC to the enemy if the opportunity to do so arose? He hoped not. General Hammond inhaled deeply looking at Captain Conner patiently waiting for the man to answer. He casually crossed his hands on top of his desk softening his voice a bit as he continued, "Look, if you know where Doctor Fraiser or Doctor Jackson is please tell me. Help us to help them. You do know that Doctor Jackson will most likely be killed if he isn't found soon and Doctor Fraiser, also?"

Conner bowed his head suddenly finding his now entwined hands very interesting. Yes, he knew the danger that both Doctor Jackson and Doctor Fraiser were now in. Hell, he still couldn't seem to get the image of Jackson hanging suspended from the ceiling after being brutally lashed out of his mind. The image was forever burned into his memory. The image was one of the reasons he had been so willing to abduct Doctor Fraiser. Doctor Jackson was growing worse and drawing ever closer to death. He had to do something before it was too late. He wanted to help out the General but was afraid of the consequences. His fear is what made him successfully hold his tongue as Hammond interrogated him. He quickly realized that he couldn't quite meet the General's eyes. He was aware that reacting in such a way could indicate his guilt, but no matter how hard he tried he couldn't look Hammond in the eyes.

Hammond paused as he noticed Conner's sudden silence allowing the man the chance to come clean and speak of what he might know. The longer he sat here the more certain he was that Conner wasn't being entirely honest. When he was certain that Conner would say no more he continued, "Captain, if you are involved in either of their disappearances I am sure there's a good reason, but please tell us. I don't understand why anyone would willingly lie when they know where a missing person is. Please tell me where they are."

"I don't know."

Hammond sighed heavily. Conner knew something but wasn't willing to talk. He continued in a calm tone of voice, "You were the last one to be with Doctor Fraiser before she disappeared. If you know where she is then please tell us. If you don't know where Doctor Jackson is then I'll understand but if you know anything, anything at all, about either of them then please let us know."

Conner was so close to doing just that but his fear and worry kept him silent. He sadly replied, "I can't help you, General. I'm sorry." The simple words felt like ash on his tongue. He felt disgusted with himself. He should tell the General. He knew that he should, but he still remained silent. As he downcast his eyes closing them again the image of Doctor Jackson hanging suspended from the ceiling with blood running down his body to pool at his feet filled his mind. If the General's phone hadn't started to ring just then Conner knew that he would've confessed everything to the man.

* * * *

Jack O'Neill decided to check on Major Carter. He entered her lab seeing that she was on the computer. Jack approached asking, "Carter, how's the search going?"

Sam looked at her Commanding Officer sighing as she prepared to give him the news of her most recent search for Daniel. She had nothing, nothing. She didn't even have a clue. She was so frustrated that she was ready to kill somebody but she inhaled deeply then answered, "Not good. I have no way of locating Daniel, sir. I don't even have an idea of where to begin my search. I tried to locate the second Stargate like before but nothing is turning up. They mustn't have used their Stargate yet. I can't even begin to triangulate their present location if they don't activate their gate. I'm sorry, sir."

Jack continued to watch his second-in-command. Carter looked exhausted and very sad. Daniel's absence was taking a definite toll on her. He was angry. Damn it, wasn't there anything he could do to help? Jack noticed that ever since they started their search for Daniel they have been hitting one dead end after another. He was positive that Carter's theory about a mole at the SGC was correct. A mole was the only way to explain how they have succeeded in getting nowhere near locating Daniel. Jack asked, "Do you think they know that's how you tracked them the last time?"

Sam stared intently at the Colonel a moment longer before answering, "That's a very good possibility, sir. It also adds to Conner looking guilty of aiding and abetting. He knows how I tracked Daniel the first time and if he is the mole then he would have informed Daniel's captors of that already."

"SHIT!"

"Exactly. I don't know what to do, sir."

He watched Carter. He could tell that she was becoming more disheartened the longer Daniel went missing. He had no idea what to do and hated to make the suggestion but he could see no other alternative as he proposed, "Maybe we should try to contact Maybourne..."

Carter remained silent for a time before asking, "What, sir? I'm very sure that he is involved. Why contact someone who probably ordered Daniel's abduction in the first place?"

"Because I have no other leads, Carter. I'm willing to try almost anything to get Daniel back. Look, we contact him and he may or may not respond, but we have to at least try."

"I don't like this at all."

"Neither do I, Carter, but we seem to be out of options. Let's contact Maybourne and go from there."

"How do we even begin to do that?"

"It's rather easy actually. Daniel and I did this to track you when you were missing."

Jack gave her a site address then told her to post a brief message. Sam looked at him doubtfully then questioned, "What now?"

"We wait. If he decides to give us some of his time we'll hear from him soon. However, if he's involved in this he may not even bother."

"Unless he wants to convince us that he's not involved. He may try to shuffle the blame..."

"Then we'll look into the one he blames. Don't trust him no matter what. He could very well be involved in Daniel's disappearance. I wouldn't put it past the bastard. He's always had something against Daniel..."

"Ever since that incident with the Tollan."

"Yeah. Which means if he was offered a chance to aid in Daniel's disappearance in any way..."

"He'd probably jump at the chance."

"Exactly."

Sam definitely didn't like the idea of contacting Maybourne. She was positive that he was involved in Daniel's abduction. She already knew the NID was involved and that Maybourne had been behind those renegade teams in the past that stole artifacts. She was sure he was involved, but he most likely wasn't working alone. Sam muttered, "Wait a minute!"

"Carter?"

"There is one person we're eliminating in this whole equation..."

"Carter?"

"User 4574..."

"Simmons? But..."

"Colonel, think about it. Simmons works for the Pentagon. He also doesn't like Daniel all that much..."

"Carter, they took him to translate."

"No, no. I don't think that's the only reason they took Daniel."

"You're saying revenge?"

"Partly yes but no. There were several factors that made Daniel a valuable target. I don't think we're seeing the full picture here. I don't think they have him just to translate. Although that is a big reason that isn't the ONLY reason."

"Carter..."

"Sir, they went to extremes to acquire Daniel. They abducted him from an alien planet when they could've done that here. They went so far as to move him and empty an entire warehouse to keep him in their custody. There's some other reason Daniel was taken. One we're not seeing...one we may know nothing about."

"Okay so...how does Simmons...?"

"He accessed all of our files. He has studied our files thoroughly without any real authorization..."

"So where are you going with this?"

"He accessed only our files often...now Doctor Fraiser disappeared. Suppose Simmons is responsible for Daniel's abduction, and he needs to acquire a doctor for Daniel..."

"Why would Daniel need a...?"

"Colonel, you know as well as I do that he's being tortured for answers he'll never provide. Daniel won't help them. You know from what Anubis told us that he is already being beaten. He would need a doctor possibly to keep him alive."

"Why would they get Doctor Fraiser?"

"I have no idea, Colonel. This is all just theory..."

"So..."

"I'm going to check Janet's personnel file to see how often it's been accessed and by whom."

"You're going to do that...illegal hacking stuff again aren't you, Major?"

Sam smirked at Jack then turned back to the computer. She was positive that Simmons was involved. She was more than a bit certain that Simmons was involved in this whole mess and as she started to do some hacking she drew closer to her confirmation.

* * * *

Ayanna decided to check on Doctor Jackson. She entered the room Levinson told her he was now in. She saw a woman sitting beside a bed and Doctor Jackson lying in that bed. She hoped that woman wasn't Janet Fraiser. She approached Jameson questioning, "How is he?"

"He's resting. Levinson broke his finger."

"What?"

"He refused to cooperate so Levinson ordered his finger broken."

"So he's starting to break bones now? This isn't good! Who is...?" her question died on her lips when the woman sitting beside Doctor Jackson turned to look at her. Ayanna stared then looked at Jameson.

Jameson watched Ayanna as a look of surprise and shock crossed her facial features. He knew exactly why she looked that way as he said, "I believe you already know our other visitor."

"Doctor Janet Fraiser...but I thought he wasn't...I thought he decided not to go after her."

"No. He needs someone to tend to Doctor Jackson. She's been with us since we arrived here."

Ayanna heard her symbiote, Tail'ia, speaking, 'Ayanna, we must help these two. If they stay here then they will both die. We must help them. We must contact the Tok'ra to inform them of our new location.'

"I know, Tail'ia. I know."

'They are far from being done with Doctor Jackson. He still refuses to submit, to cooperate. They will only interrogate him further. I, for one, do not want to see Doctor Jackson hurt any more.'

"Why are you so concerned for him? You barely know him."

'We have met in the past. Though Doctor Jackson probably does not know that we have.'

"But how? When?"

'He saved us...my previous host and I from death.'

"WHAT? When?"

'Now is not the time to be discussing this.'

"You're not going to tell me, are you?"

'Maybe in time... We must help them both. The time of waiting is now over. We have no choice but to contact the Tok'ra.'

Ayanna glanced up as Doctor Fraiser questioned, "You know who I am?"

"Yes, and I'm sorry you were brought into this. My boss was worried that Doctor Jackson would not survive much longer without help. I suggested he bring in a doctor and never expected him to choose you. I'm sorry."

"That's all right. I would rather be with Daniel then all alone."

"How is he doing?"

"Good. He has a broken finger and some nasty bruising, a broken rib but I think he'll be okay...if we can get him out of this place."

"What about his back?"

"It's healing. He'll have minimal scarring."

"Good. I'm glad to hear that."

Doctor Fraiser looked at the woman in surprise and curiosity. Who was she and why was she here? She didn't seem like the kind of person who would willingly work for a man who abducted and abused people. The woman must've seen the wonder and the questions in Janet's eyes because she leaned forward whispering, "In time all of your questions will be answered. I will help you both, but I need time."

Janet looked at her in surprise. Did this woman just say that she was going to help her and Daniel? Surely not to escape...but as Janet looked at the woman she was sure that's what she meant. She glanced at the guard posted in the room and the woman said, "It's okay. He is a friend. He wants to help Doctor Jackson...that's why my boss posted him here."

"Oh."

"I'm sorry I never introduced myself. I am Ayanna."

"Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you, also. I must go now, but I will be back to check on Doctor Jackson and you occasionally."

"Okay."

Janet watched as the woman left the room. Could this woman be Daniel's chance at freedom? She hoped so. She needed to get Daniel out of here, away from this place, back to the SGC and back in her infirmary. Daniel was doing fine at the moment, but she knew that they would soon return for him to continue their interrogation. Daniel would once again be beaten for refusing to cooperate.

The Next Day...

Janet jumped up when Lance and James approached the bed, removing the one shackle. She watched as Daniel slowly sat up glaring at Lance who seemed totally oblivious to the look. Lance said, "Rise and shine, Doctor Jackson. Rise and shine. Boss wants to see you again."

Janet felt her insides twist as Lance made that announcement. She had hoped that they would give Daniel more than a day to recuperate but obviously that wasn't going to occur. She knew that they were here to lead Daniel to his next interrogation session with Levinson. She watched him arise noticing how much he struggled to comply with that simple order. Daniel was in no condition to be up and moving around. She was outraged that these people didn't care about Daniel's need to heal. Damn them! What was wrong with giving him a few days to recover? She felt so damned helpless knowing that Daniel was being led before their captor only to be further abused and beaten. God, how many more beatings could Daniel even take? She was no fool. She could tell that the beatings were wearing her friend down. He looked emotionally drained...exhausted actually. She knew that he would never do as they asked, but the captivity was taking its toll on him. She had no idea what all he has suffered so far at the hands of these men. All she knew is what the vast amount of injuries that seemed to cover his entire body told her. Those injuries that marred his body painted a picture of what Daniel has been forced to endure and none of it was pleasant. In fact, it was obvious to even one with an untrained eye that the man has been systematically tortured since his disappearance.

Daniel continued to sit up automatically placing his hands before him before Lance even gave the order. He continued to glare at Lance as the man smirked wickedly his way pulling out a set of handcuffs meant for him. Daniel couldn't resist being a slight bit sarcastic as he responded to Lance's command, "Oh, does he miss me already?"

Daniel was quickly rewarded for his sarcasm as Lance backhanded him brutally across the left side of his face striking him so hard that Daniel flew against the headboard of the bed. He faintly heard Janet crying out in surprise and fear as he impacted. He then quickly pulled himself together growing angrier by the minute. Why the hell did this man always have to use violence? Of course, Daniel knew why...Lance drew way too much pleasure from harming another. He sat up cursing mentally as he could feel warm blood now running freely from his nose. He glanced up again as Lance demanded, "Hands in front Doctor Jackson!"

Daniel looked up at Lance continuing to glare sinisterly at the man before him. Lance merely chuckled in response then set to work securing Daniel's wrists together in front of him. Lance then taunted, "Maybe today the boss will break your whole hand."

Daniel bit out, "You’d just love that wouldn't you?"

"You know I would, Doctor Jackson, because I'd be the one he would order to carry out the breaking."

"You're all heart, Lance."

Lance's eyes sparked dangerously in rage as he glared coldly at Daniel. He wanted to shut the damned doctor up! He raised his fist in preparation to punch the man stopping only when James interrupted, "Lance, boss wants us to bring Jackson to him NOW."

Lance didn't even turn towards James. He continued to glare threateningly in Daniel's direction as he sneered, "You just wait. One of these days it will be my turn to punish you for refusing to cooperate, and I'll enjoy beating the shit out of you."

"Oh good, now I have something to look forward to," came Daniel's angry reply. He heard Janet speaking behind him muttering his name. She was attempting to warn him with the tone of her voice to stop trying to goad Lance. He didn't even look her way as he continued to meet Lance's cold glare. He knew he shouldn't be deliberately angering the man before him, but he was so frustrated and mad. He was tired of being beaten around for his refusal to cooperate, and he felt so angry. He watched the man before him as Lance ordered, "Get up! Now!"

Daniel obeyed wincing as Lance suddenly latched onto his upper arm, none too gently. Damn it, how did Lance manage to magically find those bruises present on his arms every single day? He shook his head then gasped as James seized his other arm effectively pressing his fingers into the bruises already there as well. He groaned as both Lance and James deliberately increased their painful grips on his upper arms as they jerked Daniel into movement. Daniel knew that he would have more bruises on his arms to blend in with the older bruises. Damn! As the two men continued to jerk him towards the door Daniel couldn't hold back the cry of pain that escaped his lips when his beaten, battered body was forced into movement. His lashes were healing but they still hurt like hell, along with his now broken pinky and all the other assortments of bruises and cuts now present on his flesh. Daniel bit back any more sounds of pain as Lance and James continued to escort him down the hallway and back to Levinson's office once again.

Janet was very concerned and fearful for Daniel. She never realized how sarcastic he could be when in a situation like this. She always knew that Daniel was less likely to deliberately provoke his captors, but obviously she had been wrong. Daniel was almost as sarcastic as Colonel O'Neill when his back was pinned against a wall. She became even more worried for Daniel. She feared that Levinson would break another finger or maybe even Daniel's hands and prayed that wouldn't happen. She started to nervously pace the room, gnawing on her bottom lip, wondering what these people were going to do to her friend next and being very aware that torture was high on their list.

Daniel cursed as he was dragged before Levinson. He was so tired of this day after day after day. When would these people realize that he wouldn't cooperate no matter what they did to him? He sighed in frustration then looked up at the man before him glaring angrily in his direction. As Levinson looked at him Daniel responded, "How many times are we going to repeat this same old routine?"

Levinson watched the man noticing he looked a bit tired and angry. He grinned as Doctor Jackson posed a question and quickly supplied him with an answer, "It's a pleasure to see you too, Doctor Jackson...and to answer your question, as often as I want. You only have to do one thing for me..."

"I won’t cooperate."

"That's a shame. You see I felt so bad about having to break that finger of yours and now you're telling me that I'll have to break another? Please, Doctor Jackson, can we solve this dilemma simply by talking and agreeing?"

"No. I won't help you. I'll tell you again just, in case, you didn't hear me the first time: I will not help you no matter what you or your goons do to me."

"I see..."

Levinson walked around his desk and approached Jackson. He continued to watch the young man intently. Why was Doctor Jackson so opposed to helping him? What would finally persuade the good doctor to help him? Levinson eyed up Daniel continuing, "It would be in your best interest for you to cooperate with me."

"No."

Levinson continued to stare at the stubborn man before him. Doctor Jackson was an intriguing individual. He reached out placing his left hand against Jackson's right shoulder. The man immediately jerked away from the touch. Levinson grinned then added, "Doctor Jackson, it would be mutually beneficial to both of us if you would simply just cooperate."

"No."

"You would rather me tell Lance to break another finger?"

"Why are you asking me? You'll do it anyway."

"Doctor Jackson, I have been very patient with you. Now my patience is beginning to thin. Will you do as I ask?"

"No."

Levinson didn't think as he rammed an uppercut punch directly into Daniel's gut. He watched as the man's face contorted in pain and his scream pierced the air. He watched with disinterest as the young, stubborn prisoner dropped to his knees painfully. Levinson merely shook his head in disappointment continuing to stare at the man now on his knees before him wondering why the hell he was so stubborn.

Daniel screamed loudly as he felt that fist impact with his body. He heard the distinct sound of bone snapping and knew that another of his ribs broke in his chest. He dropped painfully to his knees wheezing in an attempt to draw in oxygen to his starving lungs. He quickly doubled over in excruciating pain as he felt the full impact of that broken rib. He was so distracted by the pain he was now experiencing that he was unprepared for Levinson's next move. The man reached down and grabbed a lock of Daniel's short hair jerking his head upright to force him to lock eyes with him. Daniel gasped in surprise then groaned as the man before him deliberately added pressure on that hold forcing his head back even further. As he focused on Levinson he noticed that the man was outraged. Levinson sneered at him as he threatened, "Doctor Jackson, if you continue to refuse to help me you will suffer all sorts of pain. Do you really want that?"

No. What he wanted was the man to release his damned hair! Daniel cursed, "You fuckin' bastard!"

Levinson continued to glare at Daniel and his eyes took on a cold edge as he spoke evenly, "Break another finger. NOW!"

Daniel had no time to react as Levinson released his hair and Lance gripped his left arm yanking it away from his stomach. He struggled to pull his arm free but wasn't fast enough as he felt Lance grip his left ring finger and give it a yank. Daniel screamed at the top of his lungs as he heard the sickening crack of another finger being broken. Pain overwhelmed him and he swore he would soon pass out. He successfully acquired two broken bones within the span of a minute. He heard Levinson order, "Take Doctor Jackson to his new room and get him settled in. If he gives you any trouble take care of it... Perhaps in time, Doctor, you'll learn to do as I ask."

Daniel felt himself being yanked to his feet and immediately covered his stomach with his arms trying to comfort the new pain in his chest and left hand. He was vaguely aware of Lance and James practically dragging him down the hall. They opened the door to another room and shoved Daniel violently inside. Lance smirked saying, "String him up, James."

"But boss said..."

"Boss said if he gives us any trouble to take care of it, so I'm going to take care of it. Loop his arms up over that hook."

James saw the big hook in the ceiling and quickly looped Daniel's chained wrists up over it effectively placing Daniel's hands above his head. Lance grabbed Daniel firmly about the jaw forcing Daniel to turn and face him. He demanded, "Look at me...look at me!"

Daniel tried to ignore the new pain in his hand and chest knowing that he was now in deep shit. Lance had him right where he wanted: chained up and totally defenseless. He attempted to focus on his tormentor finding that he really didn't like the direction this particular situation was heading. Lance was pissed. He was only thinking of one thing and that was beating the shit out of him. He felt chills climb his spine as Lance sneered at him and quickly tried to dampen the sudden sense of fear attempting to overpower him. Shit, how the hell was he going to get himself out of this mess? Lance started to chuckle then said, "James, the blindfold..."

Daniel glared at him more sinisterly as he realized they were going to blindfold him yet again. Damn them! Lance smirked in pleasure saying, "I suggest you close your eyes, Doctor Jackson. Now."

"You fuckin' bastard!"

He slowly closed his eyes cursing as immediately after doing so the cloth fell across his face. He could feel James tugging on the blindfold as he secured it in place and cursed again. He hated the fuckin' blindfold and had been so glad to be relieved of it. But now Lance decided to use it again. The fuckin' bastard!

Lance's voice filled the room as he taunted, "Now it's our turn to persuade you to help Levinson."

Lance nodded to James who fisted his right hand then, without a second thought, drove a brutal punch to Daniel's lower right kidney. Daniel cried out arching in response to the sudden sharp pain now present in his back. He inhaled sharply as the punch successfully ignited the anguish in the multiple array of lashes present on his back. He wanted to kill the bastards! The punch was followed closely up by a vicious kick that was directed to the back of his lower right leg. His leg collapsed under him, and Daniel could feel it begin to throb. Damn, but that leg would swell up soon! He faintly heard movement in front of him and screamed doubling the best he could when suspended from the ceiling by his wrists as Lance delivered his next kick to his gut. Tears pierced Daniel's closed eyelids as agony so extreme filled him yet again from the broken ribs he has sustained thus far. As he coughed violently, nearly retching, he noticed that his breathing was now becoming raspier. He prayed a rib wasn't driven into a lung, or he would slowly bleed to death internally. He could tell by his sudden haggard breathing that another rib was just fractured or broken. Damn it, at this rate his rib cage would collapse! How many broken ribs could someone accumulate before it became life threatening? As he slowly started to recover he could hear the sounds of his now labored breathing. As he struggled to pull in every ragged breath he was once again reminded of the dangers he was now facing. He was so focused on the pain that he failed to realize that Lance and James were still beating him. He felt as if he were being pummeled to death as fists rained across his back and body. They were punching and kicking him wherever they decided to and soon his whole body ignited in pain. Daniel only remained conscious a few moments longer before the blessed darkness closed in on him. Lance and James continued to beat him on the arms, legs and his back...anywhere that they chose to. After doing this for a while Lance called a halt to their...enjoyment. He said, "Release him. We'll chain him to the wall."

James released Daniel from the shackles on his wrists then carelessly tossed the young archaeologist against the wall. He seized Daniel's left arm slamming it against the wall above his head into the open manacle imbedded in the cell wall. Then he snapped it shut effectively trapping Daniel's left arm painfully above his head. He did the same with Daniel's right wrist then placed ankle shackles on the man. Once he had Daniel secured in place he stepped back to view his handiwork. He smirked sinisterly as he looked at the unconscious archaeologist. The man was propped with his back against the wall, ankle manacles on his legs and both of his arms now pinned above his head against the wall trapped in shackles that were imbedded in that wall. The scientist would have very minimum use of his arms. In fact, he wouldn't be able to move them at all. The position was very painful, indeed. He knew that by morning the young man's hands and arms would be numb and his shoulders would be extremely sore. He also knew since his hands were now pinned so firmly against the wall that the man would have minimal freedom of overall movement. He could move his legs all he wanted, but he had very minimal movement of his arms and upper body. He knew, as well, that the young man's back would be in immense pain pressed so firmly against that wall, and there was very little the man would be able to do to relieve that pain. The restraints were, indeed, rather cruel and sadistic to one who was unfortunate enough to be secured within them, but Levinson had ordered the man secured in such a fashion. He wanted Jackson to break and agree to work for him, so he decided to give the man some things to think about like: just how important was it to the man to have freedom of movement and to be able to see anything except blackness?

As Lance and him exited the room Lance flicked off the light casting the room, and Doctor Jackson, into complete darkness.

* * * *

Levinson glanced up as his boss entered the room. He questioned, "Why are you here?"

"To check on our prisoner."

"Our prisoner? What the hell are you talking about?"

"Doctor Jackson is my prisoner. When you get your answers he becomes mine."

"Why do you want him so badly?"

"That's none of your business."

"Okay, why the hell do you want him secured like he is?"

His boss walked over to the monitor and looked at the screen. He smirked evilly when he saw the young scientist's newest predicament then continued, "Because I won’t lose him. I need him very soon. Our experiments are reaching the testing phase. In restraining him like that he may become very willing to help you...and cooperate with me once I tell him what else I'd like him to do."

"He won't talk. We've already started breaking bones, and he still won't talk."

"He will when he hears the choices that he will be given. I told you to bend his will wouldn't be easy..."

"Well, he didn't seem like he'd be much of a challenge."

Levinson's boss laughed then said, "Doctor Jackson is one of the most difficult men I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. Ever since the first time we met Jackson made it very clear that he didn't like me all that much. He made it very clear that he didn't trust me either."

"So you have a past association? That's why you hired us to do all the dirty work, isn't it? Because he would recognize you immediately."

"He'll know who I am when the time is right."

"What does Maybourne have to do with this?"

"Jackson believes Maybourne is the one who set this whole thing up. What he fails to realize is that Maybourne is just here working for me."

"But Maybourne hates you..."

"He has good reason to."

"So why use him?"

"Because he is very good at his job...plus I do know Maybourne doesn't have a soft spot for Jackson. He wants revenge on Jackson, so he was perfect for the job."

Levinson felt chills climb his spine. He didn't like Maybourne but the man at least didn't carry a cold air about him all the time. This man before him did. He was sinister, twisted and totally insane and he, like Maybourne, wanted Doctor Jackson. Levinson again found himself wondering how an archaeologist could draw the attention of so many influential people. There were people all the way up to the top interested in Jackson. Levinson wondered what made the man such a valuable target. Jackson and the rest of his team were all very valuable, but Levinson just couldn't understand why that was. Why did so many people want the members of SG-1 whether it was to kill them, abduct them or use them? He knew that one of the reasons his boss wanted the young man was because of his bargaining value. His boss could use Jackson to draw out the other members of his team and there were always certain others who would gladly accept the man to hand him over to the Goa'uld. Levinson had learned relatively quickly just how valuable each member of SG-1 was to the people of Earth and all the other races in space. SG-1 had the highest value of any other team. There were quite a few very influential system lords who wanted to get their hands on SG-1, ANY member of SG-1.

Levinson's boss interrupted his train of thought as he reminded, "Jackson will be with us for a very long time."

"Why do you want him so badly?"

"For many reasons...one of them being his many talents. You don't need to know why he's so important to us."

"Can't you at least...?"

"Need to know, Levinson. Need to know."

"You damned government types are all the same!"

"In this job you have to be very careful. Now tell me how is our patient doing today?"

"I already told you...he won't talk."

"He will."

"And what if he doesn't?"

"He will or he will suffer greatly for his opposition."

"But..."

"You worry too much, Levinson. Stop worrying. I know exactly what I'm doing."

Levinson watched as his boss glanced at Doctor Jackson once more then exited the room. He hated when that man visited. He gave Levinson the creeps. The man didn't seem to have a moral conscience, at all. The man was a cold-hearted bastard who had a lot of power. He wondered just how such a sinister person could end up at the damned Pentagon. The nation was really in trouble if everyone at the Pentagon was as heartless as that man.

* * * * * *

Colonel Jack O'Neill continued to watch the man still asleep in his arms. Anubis had since fallen asleep himself, casting O'Neill once more into silence where he could spend some more quality time with his conflicting thoughts and emotions regarding one Doctor of Archaeology and one symbiote who now seemed to be residing within that doctor. The whole situation was very confusing and he found himself having some great difficulty accepting the whole idea. The man in his arms has a creature inside of him. He said it was wrapped around his spinal cord and connected to his brain. Jack shivered at that image. Would he ever be able to accept Doctor Jackson coming back into his life again with a passenger? His original plan was to extract that thing from Doctor Jackson any way he could, but he spoke to both Daniel and that snake. Neither of them seemed to want to be separated. Could he actually force the man to separate from that thing? He had caused the man so much pain and suffering in the past and now he seemed better, stronger some how. Could that thing inside of him have been that helpful to him? O'Neill found that he doubted his ability to separate Jackson from that...symbiote. God, could he accept that snake residing within the man? Jack sighed in frustration before propping his head against the wall and allowing his eyes to drift shut. He was just beginning to drift back to sleep when a distinct sound roused him yet again. He jerked his head upwards recognizing the sound of approaching guards. Oh God, please let them not be coming back for Jackson, please!

Anubis awoke to the noise. Glancing at O'Neill, he noticed the man was suddenly afraid...he probably knew that Seth would soon return for them. Anubis spoke softly, "Sutekh is returning for Daniel and I. He is not done with us, Colonel."

Jack jumped in surprise then glanced down at the man in his arms who still had his eyes closed. He stared as that gravely voice spoke again, "There is nothing you can do. Sutekh desires to make us suffer. He grows ever tired of waiting on Isis to come for us, so he decides to spend his time tormenting us until she does arrive."

"Shit!"

O'Neill noticed that the guards were quickly approaching their cell...sure enough it was Jackson they wanted. Obviously Seth wanted to spend more "quality time" with Doctor Jackson. Shit! The guards entered their cell and approached. One of the guards lashed out kicking Daniel's leg to get his attention. O'Neill unconsciously tightened his hold on the younger man not wanting to let him go as he glared coldly at the guard who had lashed out.

Anubis glanced at O'Neill as he felt the man strengthen his hold...so O'Neill still did care for his host a little...good. His focus was immediately interrupted when he sensed his host awaking and he heard Daniel snapping, "Damn, that hurt! The fuckin' bastard!"

"Daniel, Sutekh has returned for us once again."

"Yeah I know. Shit!" again he felt the kick to his leg. Anubis glared at the guard saying, "We are awake."

The guard merely chuckled then worked on releasing the restraints shackling Anubis and Daniel to the wall. They both groaned as their wrists fell free of the restraints. Anubis healed Daniel completely except that the shackles continued to abrade and bruise Daniel's wrists and ankles. Daniel even told him to forget about healing them because they'd only be torn open again. He glanced at O'Neill when the man winced aloud and noticed that O'Neill's gaze was now riveted to those badly injured wrists. Anubis sensed that O'Neill hadn't realized just how tight the shackles had been secured. It was safe to say that he knew so now.

The guard ordered, "Get up, Anubis. Now. Your lord grows impatient."

Anubis arose and started to leave with the guard. One of the other guards waited until Anubis was away from Jack before deliberately firing a zat gun at him. Anubis crumpled to the floor as the electric charge snaked and flowed across his body. Daniel cursed rather loudly as he felt pain envelope them and sensed Anubis blacking out. Damn it but he hated those damned zat guns! He had a fleeting memory of Sam Carter standing above him after, likewise, firing upon them. He found some comfort in envisioning her face. He was quickly becoming aware of his body still convulsing wickedly in response to the electrical current still traveling the length of it. The last thing he saw before unconsciousness set in was the guard who fired upon them laughing. The bastard!

Once Daniel was unconscious the guards seized him by his arms and literally dragged him before Seth. Jack glared at the guard still standing before him as his teammate lay writhing on the floor in pain from that small weapon. Jack was ready to murder the damned guards. He had felt intense fear when that weapon was fired upon Doctor Jackson. Watching the man's body convulse in pain while blue light seemed to spark and dance up and down across the man's body was an image Jack would not soon forget. He shivered even now as he recalled that recent event in very vivid detail. He attempted to aid Doctor Jackson when the guard, still standing before him, reacted by shoving a staff weapon in his face. He felt so damned helpless as all he could do was watch while Doctor Jackson was again taken from him and listened as the man was dragged through the dungeon to Seth. He cursed glaring at the guard wondering why he still remained. Then the guard suddenly turned on his heels and exited the cell securing it shut as he left. Jack was left wandering why the guard had remained and fearing what Seth might do to the young archaeologist this time.

* * * *

Sutekh smiled as his guards entered dragging his prized prisoner before him yet again. He had been waiting for Anubis to heal his host. When he was sure the job would be adequately done he ordered the guards to retrieve the man and bring Anubis before him.

The guards stopped before him quickly bowing their heads in a show of respect. Sutekh ordered, "Take the prisoner to the center of the room and secure his wrists above him again. Then bring my whip and the shock device."

He nodded as both guards muttered a quick 'Yes My Lord' before doing as instructed. He watched drawing immense pleasure from observing his guards place Anubis' wrists in manacles then snapping them shut effectively imprisoning his enemy there. He chuckled as the guards then moved to the door as Anubis crumpled in his spot hanging only by his wrists. The host would be awake soon and Sutekh decided he would like to spend more time with that man.

Sutekh approached his enemy then started to slowly circle him. Yes Anubis had acquired a fine host, indeed. As he slowly scanned Doctor Jackson's body he was very pleased with what he was seeing. Yes, he could spend the rest of his days occupying the body of this human. Each time he looked at Doctor Jackson he considered the man for his new host. He glanced at the young man noticing the youthfulness in the man's face and the soft tone of the man's skin. The man was beautiful, indeed. Sutekh decided he wanted the man as his host. He would rid Doctor Jackson of Anubis then take the man as his own. He would acquire a fine body, a spirited host, which would provide him with years of entertainment, and he would reside in the man Isis' Beloved chose. The plan was perfect, absolutely perfect. He would also acquire all the knowledge the man held of Isis, Anubis and the Tau'ri world. His smile broadened as he decided Anubis would die by his hands but not Daniel Jackson. Oh, no, the man had too many advantages within him. He was too valuable to destroy.

Sutekh decided to pursue a different plan. He would spend equal time torturing both host and symbiote. He would draw much pleasure from tormenting Anubis then he would use a weapon or drug to suppress the symbiote so he could spend some more quality time with his soon-to-be new host. He could spend that time wearing Doctor Jackson down. If he could overpower Daniel Jackson now while he was still host to Anubis then when Sutekh took Anubis' place within the man he would seize control much, much easier. He decided to spend his time working on lowering the human's resistance to him. Daniel Jackson would become his host and would be forever mastered by him.

Sutekh grinned wickedly as the man before him groaned. Yes, the host was awaking. He knew that the host would be dominant a short time before his symbiote would awake after being zatted. He watched intently as Daniel Jackson awoke to discover his new predicament. Sutekh chuckled as the man yanked against his restraints, cursed loudly then placed his feet under him. As Sutekh chuckled loudly he watched Daniel Jackson jerk his head up to glare at him sinisterly. Well now, let the games begin.

Daniel started to awake slowly trying to gather his scattered thoughts together. As he worked on piecing them together his memory gave him the answers he was searching for. He had been struck by a zat gun again while still in his cell. Sutekh's guards had come for them, which could only mean... He focused on his body doing a quick mental check that brought him to the realization that his hands were now secured above his head, and he was dangling from them. He cursed as he yanked against those restraints finding himself wincing as metal dug and sliced into already sore, chafed flesh. Instantly he could feel warm liquid rolling lazily down across each of his arms...shit, blood. His wrists were bleeding again. Damn! Daniel quickly placed his feet under him as he searched for Anubis within him. He sighed in relief when he could sense his symbiote's presence. It was faint right now for Anubis was still unconscious. Daniel jerked his head upright when he heard a sinister chuckle fill the room. As he opened his eyes he glared sinisterly in Sutekh's direction. Shit, now what the hell did this power hungry Goa'uld want? As he looked into the cold, passionless face of the Goa'uld lord before him he again found himself remembering the mythology surrounding Sutekh: god of chaos, god of darkness and evil. This Goa'uld definitely took that persona to the extreme. Every thing about this particular Goa'uld lord screamed evil. The Goa'uld lord seemed to enjoy inflicting pain on his prisoners. He enjoyed delivering pain to others just a bit too much. Hell, he enjoyed hearing his prisoner's yelling and screaming in their misery. Daniel felt sudden chills travel across his spine but quickly dispelled his worries and thoughts choosing, instead, to focus on the evil one before him.

Sutekh chuckled again as he said, "Hello, Doctor Jackson...I see that Anubis has actually taken the time to heal you. All of his hard work will soon be destroyed...pity. You know it is such a shame that I must mark up this beautiful body to make Anubis and you suffer. Such a shame..."

Daniel licked his lips then spoke evenly, "Yes, you seem so disappointed. You bastard..."

Sutekh chuckled again as he reached out to stroke Daniel's face. As Daniel pulled away from him Sutekh was quick to grab a handful of the man's hair in his left hand yanking Daniel's head painfully backwards. He laughed when he heard the man cry out. He then sneered at Doctor Jackson placing his right hand against Daniel's face cupping his left cheek in it. Daniel immediately attempted to jerk away, but Sutekh only tightened his grip yanking harsher on the man's hair then started stroking his thumb across Daniel's upper cheekbone. Daniel felt his skin crawling in response to that gesture of Sutekh's. He again tried to resist by jerking backwards but was only rewarded by Sutekh pulling his head back further by his hair. This time Daniel did cry out rather loudly as pain sliced through his head. He gently bit into his lower lip attempting to keep any further sounds of pain from escaping.

Sutekh glared at Daniel and deliberately continued to stroke his thumb across Daniel's cheek reveling in the man's reactions to his unwanted touch. He then spoke evenly, "You will learn the penalty of resisting me, Tau'ri. Soon you will learn to obey me totally and completely..."

"I don't think so."

"Soon I will master and rule you, and you will be my slave. You will be my new host and let me warn you, I am not a very forgiving master. You would be wise not to anger me."

"You would be wise to get your damned hands off of my face you bastard!"

Sutekh chuckled again finding that he liked the spiritedness in this one. He would gain much pleasure from bending this man to his will. He responded to that comment by kneeing the man. Daniel cried out as the strike forced him to naturally attempt to bend forward, but as he yanked against Sutekh's iron grip in his hair he cried out again as the Goa'uld lord refused to yield securing him fast. Daniel felt lightheadedness sweep over him as he clenched his eyes shut in immense pain. He tried to force himself not to yank against that hold, but the pain in his midriff made him want to automatically bend forward. Oh, shit, did that grip in his hair ever hurt now! He focused on regaining clarity of thought cursing as he heard the evil lord laughing. Sutekh truly was a snake, a vile snake. It was then that he sensed Anubis awake... Anubis immediately took over. As Anubis took control of his host he raised his head and bright white light sparked in the depths of Daniel's eyes. Anubis was pissed off. How dare Sutekh torture his host while he remained unconscious! The bastard!

Anubis immediately focused inward apologizing to his host, "I am sorry he has hurt you again, young one."

"I'm fine."

"I should have awoken sooner."

"Anubis, I'm fine. He didn't do much other than threaten me and strike me."

"He should not have done so. I should have been in control. He has upset you. What did he say to you, young one?"

Daniel hesitated but caved knowing Anubis only had to search his mind to get his answer. He replied, "Anubis...he told me he will destroy you, and once he has done so he will make me his host."

Anubis felt rage fill him but quickly quenched it as he commented, "This is not good. He will not take you. I will not allow it."

"Anubis, you may not have a choice. If he...before we're rescued..."

"We will escape. You must not lose faith, my friend."

"But we have to accept that there is always a chance that we may not be so lucky."

"Yes, there is that possibility but the odds are rather stacked in our favor, young one."

"For once, amazingly enough."

Daniel heard Sutekh continue to speak to them, "Oh Anubis, you have returned. I was having a very interesting conversation with your host. Pity you have returned so soon, but I have what I need to remedy that."

Daniel sensed Anubis was disturbed by that news and asked why. Anubis said, "He must have weapons to suppress me so that he can focus on you, young one. He will attempt to suppress me to make you dominant."

"Great. Can't wait."

"If he desires to turn you into his host he will try to dominate you even now. If he succeeds in his efforts to make you more passive before blending..."

"He'll have less difficulty controlling me once he's in my body."

"Yes."

"So what you're saying is that Sutekh now has three goals in mind: to torture you, to destroy you and to bend me to his will?"

"Yes."

"Well that's definitely not good."

"No it is not."

"We have to escape."

"We will escape, but you must be patient."

"Patient? We'll be dead soon if we don't escape. Do you realize that Sutekh has been neglecting to provide us with water and food? We need those to survive Anubis. Without them my body will begin to break down. We will both die. We have to escape."

"Yes we must."

Daniel's thoughts began to wander prompting him to give them voice, "Isn't it strange how we are in almost the exact same predicament as my twin is right now? Except that he has no symbiote to heal him..."

Upon hearing the referral to their alternate Anubis was saddened. He sensed their alternate was in much greater danger than they are now. He simply stated, "He is dying."

"He's still very much alive. He has time."

"The men who hold him are killing him slowly. You know that he was just beaten again..."

"Yes and has several broken ribs."

"So you are also still sharing his pain with him?"

"Yes. You know that already Anubis. You know everything that I know. You know our connection is still strong."

"Yes."

"I believe we're going to be linked for the rest of our lives, Anubis."

"I believe that you are correct."

"Those circle of stones did something to us, to all of us, and now we're forever linked to him and he is forever linked to us..."

"As well as the Anpu of his reality."

"Yes."

Daniel winced as Sutekh intensified his grip in his hair. He clenched his eyes tightly shut willing the pain in his mind to subside. Anubis became angrier as Sutekh continued, "Yes, I will draw much pleasure from tormenting you and your host. You will both willingly yield to me by the time I am done with you."

Daniel commented to Anubis, "This Goa'uld is insane."

"That is why he is called the god of chaos and evil, young one."

"Gee, thanks for the reminder, Anubis. Hearing that just makes me feel so much better."

"He will take much pleasure in tormenting us. I will remain in control..."

"NO! You can't do that just because you don't want me to suffer. We will both take these tortures together Anubis. We share everything including pain. You can't shield me from it."

"But..."

"No, no...you may try to hold me back to guard me from the pain, but Sutekh will still hurt me after you lose consciousness. We're in this together."

Daniel groaned as pain sliced through his head now magnified by the intensity in Sutekh's merciless hold. Shit, did his head ever hurt! Sutekh refused to ease his hold. Daniel found he was ready to beg the Goa'uld to release him, but he stubbornly remained silent as the pounding in his head only grew more painful as each minute passed by. He heard the Goa'uld start to chuckle evilly again and felt an incredible urge to kick him. Without a second thought he did so automatically screaming as Sutekh doubled almost immediately and yanked his head so far back Daniel feared he would snap his neck. He started to feel lightheaded and gritted his teeth together inhaling sharply as severe agony found him. He nearly sighed out loud as the Goa'uld lord eased his hold.

As Sutekh felt the kick being delivered into him he doubled and unconsciously yanked his prisoner's hair back further. As he started to recover from the unexpected strike he could hear his prisoner breathing harshly. He realized he was yanking the human's head back too far so he eased his hold finding rage and anger filling him. How dare the human kick him! How dare Anubis resist him! He was outraged that Anubis caught him off guard with that kick. Anubis would pay dearly. He glared at the captive before him then added, "That was a very stupid move, indeed, Anubis. Why do you persist in angering me? I will only make you suffer longer for your defiance."

Sutekh then drove an uppercut punch directly to Daniel's solar plexus. He again screamed as the strike was brutal enough to successfully drive all air out of his lungs. Daniel doubled attempting to move naturally to bend at his waist but came up short as he pulled against Sutekh's hold still firmly clenched in his hair. He started coughing violently trying to force himself not to yank against that intense hold, but his efforts weren't very useful. He felt lightheaded and dizzy as the pain in his head escalated. He focused on once again drawing oxygen into his lungs hearing his symbiote gently speaking to him urging him to relax and breathe. Daniel found himself instantly responding to Anubis' gentle coaxing and as he regained his breathing and focus he sent a message to his symbiote, "Thanks Anubis."

"You are welcome, young one... Young one, do you remember the comment you made to me recently?"

"What?"

"Try not to anger Sutekh further. He is already very angry with us. He is also insane. He is a crazy Goa'uld. He will continue to hurt us, especially knowing that I will again heal you and that he can restore us to life by placing us in the sarcophagus."

Daniel found himself chuckling in response to that first comment Anubis made. He remembered very well urging his symbiote not to anger the guards. Anubis was deep in mother hen mode.

Anubis picked up on Daniel's thoughts immediately. He quickly voiced his opinion of those thoughts, "I am not in deep mother hen mode, young one. I am only concerned."

Daniel couldn't help it as a giggle slipped passed his lips as he forgot Sutekh was before him for the briefest amount of time. He responded, "You are being a mother hen."

"I am not."

"Are so..."

"Am not."

Daniel found himself focusing solely on Sutekh when the Goa'uld demanded what he was laughing about. Daniel glared at the snake refusing to comment. Sutekh watched him intently saying, "I will draw much pleasure from tormenting you I assure you of that. I will slowly torment you. When I am done with you then I will work on your host. He will soon call me master."

Daniel replied, "I do not think so."

Anubis' voice filled his mind as he said, "Daniel, leave me in control now please. Let me take over. You will have to maintain your strength for when Sutekh focuses his rage completely onto you. Please leave me in control."

Daniel agreed with Anubis and without comment moved back in his mind to give Anubis control. Daniel smirked when he couldn't resist his next comment, "See you are in deep mother hen mode, my friend."

"Daniel..."

Anubis heard Daniel again chuckle and found he was truly glad to have the man with him. Having Daniel with him as he faced off with Sutekh was a definite comfort and provided Anubis with even more courage and strength to know that he was not alone. He smiled tenderly as Daniel assured, "You will never be alone as long as you are with me, my friend."

"Thank you, Daniel."

"You're welcome."

Then Daniel fell silent. Anubis could sense his host was still very much alert but chose to remain silent listening and watching the exchange between the evil system lord and Anubis. His presence alone provided Anubis with strength. He assured himself that Daniel was all right then directed his attention towards Sutekh.

Sutekh grinned at his prisoner evilly thinking through all he wanted to do to his enemy today. Anubis would return to his cell in considerably poorer condition then he was now. He would have to allow his enemy to heal his host before tormenting them both again. His first step of business was to make Anubis suffer and torture Anubis when he was satisfied he would then knock Anubis unconscious and focus on the host Doctor Jackson. He would draw much pleasure from torturing the Tau'ri host of Anubis. Once Daniel Jackson lost consciousness or was close to unconsciousness then he would return symbiote and host to their cell. He felt his heart beat speeding as excitement entered him. Yes, he would draw immense pleasure from making these two suffer at his hands.

* * * *

General George Hammond listened as the Tok'ra, Martouf, and Captain Janet Fraiser updated him on what transpired during their visit to Tethys. It still surprised him a bit to learn that O'Neill attempted to rescue Jackson on his own even knowing that to journey to Seth's planet would only end in his eminent capture. He was glad that Colonel O'Neill finally decided that Doctor Jackson was deserving of a rescue. O'Neill could be such a fool. He didn't even realize that Doctor Jackson still cared for him deeply. He was glad to hear that they were now sharing a cell because that would mean they weren't alone. He didn't like the fact that two of his SGC members were now prisoners of an insane Goa'uld. They had to get to Avaris and they had to free Jackson and O'Neill. If Isis made her move to retrieve Doctor Jackson before they did then most likely the man would be killed by Seth as the Goa'uld lord took his ultimate revenge on her, or Isis would free him and once again get her hands on Jackson.

Hammond didn't like what Martouf had to tell them. Seth planned to destroy Isis through Anubis who now resides in Doctor Jackson. He was after Isis' position as top system lord. Hammond knew that when one strove for ultimate power and supremacy they would do almost anything to acquire that position they so coveted. Doctor Jackson was unfortunate enough to be the one edge Seth had to use against Isis. He was effectively in the middle of this entire mess.

As General Hammond thought of the young man who has been MIA almost a year he found himself wondering what happened to the man during that time. Did he suffer or was he treated well? He had obviously been with Isis. What did Isis do to him? How did she treat him? The young Tok'ra must have sensed that he was definitely distracted because he suddenly addressed him, "General Hammond, are you all right? You seem distracted."

Hammond glanced up at the Tok'ra addressing him. He was a bit surprised that the man could even tell that he was distracted. He remained silent for a time before saying, "I was just thinking about Doctor Jackson. He's been missing for a very long time. I was just wondering what his life has been like."

"Anubis sent us transmissions regularly from Isis' planet. Your friend is now host to him. He has been with Isis. He has probably been aiding Anubis in his acquiring of knowledge regarding Isis and her stronghold. We were informed that Anubis acquired his new host approximately a year ago..."

"So Isis would have a fondness for Anubis as well as Doctor Jackson?"

"She is very protective of her mate since Osiris' death so she will want to retrieve Anubis and his host as quickly as she is able. She is very possessive of those she mates with, of those she loves. She will not wait much longer before traveling to Avaris to retrieve them."

"So she hasn't gone after them yet? I thought..."

"Our informant on Avaris has informed us that Isis' First Prime, Ka'tar, is now parading as one of Sutekh's guards. He is there with one purpose and one purpose only..."

Captain Fraiser interrupted, "To retrieve Anubis and Daniel from Avaris and return them to his queen."

"Yes. He will attempt to rescue them. Isis has given him several days. If she does not soon hear from him she will go to Avaris with her fleet to extract him."

"Why doesn't she do that now?"

"Because Sutekh still holds Anubis in his dungeons. He will expect her to make such a bold strike and when she does he will enact his final revenge on her..."

"By killing them?"

"Yes. Once they are destroyed it will become very easy for Sutekh to take control of Isis' forces."

Captain Fraiser listened to the exchange knowing that time was of the essence. They had to free Doctor Jackson and Colonel O'Neill soon or Isis would make her move to retrieve them. They were both in a lot of danger. She focused intently on the General saying, "Sir, we have to get Doctor Jackson and Colonel O'Neill out of there. We can't just leave them both."

"Captain, we have no intentions of leaving them there, but what we need is a plan of action."

Martouf interrupted, "That is where we can help aid you. We can get you to the planet's surface without using the Stargate to do so."

"How?"

"We have a ship that can take us there. Once over the planet we will be able to ring you to the surface where your team will be undetected."

Hammond looked at Martouf in surprise asking, "You would do this for us?"

"We have come to help you free your people. Anubis is very important to us as I gather Doctor Jackson is to the people of this world. We would like to offer our aid to the people of the Tau'ri."

"We will gladly accept your aid. Thank you."

* * * * * *

Ayanna wasn't too happy to learn that Daniel Jackson had again been returned to a cell and beaten. He was no longer with Doctor Fraiser. Levinson was tiring of getting nowhere with the man, so he picked up the beatings yet again. Ayanna searched for him and when she found the room Levinson told her to go to she hesitantly opened the door. She was told to again check on Doctor Jackson and make him drink water if he awoke. The last time she had been ordered to do this she had been shocked to find the man had been whipped. She wasn't sure what she would find today. She entered the room and flicked on the light turning when she heard the man groaning. She was sure that he was awaking. When she saw his predicament she could feel her heart ache in response. He was sitting on the floor with his hands secured by manacles above his head. The manacles were imbedded in the wall. The position looked very painful, especially for someone with a lashed back. He wouldn't be able to shift to alleviate the pain in his back at all. The shackles didn't allow any room for him to maneuver.

God, the man had to now be in tremendous anguish. His back was far from healed. Being made to remain leaning against that wall unable to shift to take the pressure off of that brutally lashed back would cause extreme pain in the man. How could Levinson be so cruel? She knew how...he wanted information from Doctor Jackson and knew how to coax it from unyielding prisoners. This was just another...tactic to persuade the man to cooperate. No one could be comfortable when their back was so severely lashed, and they were forced not to move. Pain was a very good incentive for someone to yield. People could only handle so much pain before it began to wear them down. His punishment would only get worse.

Ayanna stared as the man suddenly hissed in pain then cried out as he made his first attempts at movement. She felt for him immensely. God but to restrain someone like that with minimal upper body movement and constant pressure applied to a severely lashed back was so cruel. She watched as Doctor Jackson groaned in frustration then propped his head back against the wall. She imagined that under the blindfold he was probably clenching his eyes tightly shut. She tensed as she heard the raspiness in his breathing. Shit, he must have several broken ribs to be breathing that haggardly. She scanned his body noticing newer bruising on him, obviously Lance and James had beaten him again.

She kneeled before him and softly spoke, "Doctor Jackson..."

"Yeah...?" Daniel's response turned quickly into violent coughing that caused his ribs to ache severely. He desperately tried to move his arms down to tend to the pain and cried out in frustration as he realized they were secured fast. Damn it! He tried to focus on the person speaking to him, attempting to identify her voice through the thick haze of pain his body now lay in. The pain in his back was immense. His back was throbbing and leaning against the wall was agitating the hell out of the multiple lashes and bruises that now made up his back. He shifted wanting desperately to get off of his back but had little success. He yanked against his wrist shackles gasping in frustration. Shit, he couldn't even fuckin' move to get off of his back! Shit! Levinson must've requested he be restrained so he couldn't move to keep him in constant pain. The bastard! Like he wasn't already in enough pain without having to add constant pressure on his back to the damned mix. God, his back hurtlike hell! It felt very raw and tender. The muscles of his back had already been sore from the crude lashing he had been exposed to and after he had attempted to shift his muscles screamed with anguish. God even his muscles were stiff and cramped, obviously he had been unconscious for longer than an hour if his muscles were already protesting the painful position they were now secured in. He attempted to shift again inhaling shakily. He cried out as his ribs retorted the sudden inhalation. Oh God! Oh shit! He had already forgotten about those broken ribs. How the hell was that even possible? Daniel became even more frustrated when he realized that every breath he took jostled those broken and fractured ribs. The position he was now secured in, also, didn't help alleviate any pain in his rib cage either...all this because he refused to cooperate?

The worst thing about this whole situation was that Daniel knew for a fact that they weren't yet done with him...not by a long shot. They would beat him again, but no matter how much he wanted to beg and plead with them to please stop hurting him he couldn't do it. He wouldn't do it! He wouldn't tell them anything. He would continue to refuse to cooperate. He heard her voice again speaking his name effectively drawing his complete attention. Who was she? He searched his mind for her name. He knew it but why was he having such difficulty recalling it? Daniel suddenly remembered as he muttered, "Ayanna..."

"Yes, Doctor Jackson. Are you awake?"

"Yeah...definitely."

"Would you like some water?"

Daniel slipped his tongue out between his lips moistening them yet again. Did he want water? Hell yeah! When was the last time he'd been given water? What a stupid question. Daniel simply nodded his head wincing as the movement sent pain ricocheting through him. Shit, he hurt everywhere! He heard her speaking and opened his eyes to focus on her, but when he opened his eyes to darkness he felt his anger and rage triple. The blindfold again! Damn, he had already forgotten. Shit, he had to get out of here! He had to get out of here soon because if he didn't then he'd either die, go insane or Maybourne would take over his torment. He knew beyond a doubt that Maybourne would send him to the NID as a damned guinea pig. He was sure of it. The man was an idiot; the man was totally dense but he operated without a conscience ninety percent of the time. If he had to do something or wanted to do something he had very few qualms about it. Daniel had to escape and now that they had Janet...he spoke her name aloud without thinking. He didn't realize he had until Ayanna responded, "Doctor Fraiser is fine. She's safe right now, Doctor Jackson. Jameson is keeping a close eye on her as are we."

"We?"

Ayanna had searched the room for a camera and when she spotted it she kept her back to it. Tail'ia wanted Doctor Jackson to know that they were here. Ayanna lowered her head allowing Tail'ia to take over. Tail'ia lowered her voice to just above a whisper as she said, "Yes, we Doctor Jackson."

"What?" Daniel recognized the overlying gravely voice immediately and felt chills climb his spine. Ayanna was a host? This was crazy! But as Tail'ia spoke again Daniel found himself listening intently to her, "We are Tok'ra, Doctor Jackson. Ayanna and I came with Jacob Carter several months ago to visit Earth. We exited Cheyenne Mountain to work our way into Colonel Maybourne's Black Ops operation. We had a name to go by..."

"Let me guess...Levinson?"

"Yes. We joined with him. We did not expect him to abduct you. He had requested you be brought to him on several occasions because his translators were not progressing. At first Colonel Maybourne dashed any suggestions to capture you. He did not want to deal with the repercussions that such actions would incur."

"Why are you here?"

"Artifacts and advanced technology started to disappear from many planets. We have seen this before..."

"With Maybourne..."

"Yes. When Colonel O'Neill helped us to discover whom the mole was within the SGC. Part of the reason you have been brought here is..."

"To translate those stolen artifacts."

"Yes. Though translation is not the only reason you have been brought here. There are several other reasons."

"Do I really want to know what those reasons are?"

"We are...we suspect that your government has some how obtained a symbiote for study and have placed it inside a human."

"WHAT?"

"It is true...there are many people involved in your abduction, Doctor Jackson. You are in a very dangerous place, but you are also somewhat protected though I do not know for how much longer. You have proved to them that you are not an easy one to conquer. They will eventually tire of your refusal to cooperate. When that happens...things will get much worse for you."

"Yeah, right."

"You are too valuable to kill. No one involved wants you dead. Each person involved needs you alive and intact. They will do their best to keep you that way."

"Yeah, I kind of figured that out when they refused to do certain things. My big clue was that they haven't used drugs yet. I'm guessing that's because they want to keep my brain intact. They can't have a severely injured, confused prisoner when they need me to translate and use my knowledge. I also noticed that Levinson has only resorted to breaking fingers on my left hand. He obviously knows I'm right-handed..."

"Yes that is why certain means have not been used to acquire your cooperation. This is also why you are still given water and Doctor Fraiser was brought here..."

"It's also very obvious that they don't want me to escape. I haven't been free of restraints since I was first taken."

"They do not wish to let you go...ever."

Daniel visibly shivered as Tail'ia made that comment. She noticed his uneasiness and quickly added, "We are going to contact Jacob Carter and the Tok'ra Council to inform them of your capture and location. Levinson moved you again. We are now nowhere near the SGC."

"Oh great..."

Daniel then lapsed into a dry cough. Tail'ia immediately urged, "Water. I need you to drink water for me, Doctor Jackson."

Daniel nodded as she pressed the glass to his lips. She helped him drink the precious water he so desperately needed. When she pulled the glass away he replied, "Thank you, uh..."

"Tail'ia."

"Tail'ia...Thank you."

"You are welcome. Would you like more?"

"Yes, please."

She reacted immediately once again holding the glass and pressing it to his lips. Daniel nearly sighed aloud as the cool liquid flowed into his mouth. God but he was so thirsty. He knew that he was most definitely dehydrated, and he desperately craved water. He felt a lot better knowing a Tok'ra was here. There might still be hope for escape. If he were to die here at least the Tok'ra would help Janet. Daniel was sure that those who now held him wanted to keep him alive, but he could tell that Lance and James weren't using a hell of a lot of control when they tortured him. He knew that if Levinson didn't keep close tabs on his condition then those two would continue to get worse. He had a sneaking suspicion that if he didn't soon escape he would die by their hands. James and Lance were both crazy and neither of them gave a damn that his captors wanted him very much alive and functioning.

Tail'ia continued to help Daniel drink water. The poor man didn't deserve to be treated like this. She knew that she had to help him. She knew how important Daniel Jackson was to the SGC and to SG-1. They had to free him. She remembered the first time she met him, though at the time he didn't know who the Tok'ra even were. He was so young and his hair had been longer back then. His youthful appearance is what drew her to him first. He looked much younger then he had been, and when she discovered he was a Tau'ri her interest in him increased. He had saved her life and the life of her host at that time though Doctor Jackson probably didn't even realize whom he had helped. She had been surprised that he had helped. When she had heard the Tok'ra allied them selves with the Tau'ri she remembered Daniel Jackson again and had decided that one day she would thank the man for saving her life. At that time she didn't realize that years later their paths would cross once more this time with his life hanging in the balance instead of hers.

She offered him more water but this time he shook his head no groaning as pain reverberated back at him. She waited for him to regain his focus watching as he slipped his tongue out between his lips to again moisten them. He then replied, "Thank you."

"You are very welcome."

Tail'ia watched as Daniel pulled his knees up to his chest trying to make himself more comfortable and to shift his position. She could see that he was miserable. The position was definitely very uncomfortable for him and when she heard his ankle shackles jingle she felt her heart ache for the man. Levinson was definitely being very cruel to the young archaeologist. The position the young man was assuming made him appear vulnerable. She could tell that Levinson's beatings were wearing the man down, but she knew Daniel wouldn't break. He was a strong man, physically and mentally. Tail'ia found herself studying his profile as he leaned against the wall with his knees drawn up to his chest as if in a defensive posture. He seemed as if he were tired...tired of the beatings, tired of the restraints, just simply...tired.

She continued to watch him as he attempted to turn to his right, giving up and deciding simply just to turn his head and prop it against the wall. The blindfold covering the man's eyes made Tail'ia feel very uncomfortable. The man had beautiful eyes and was use to being able to see. The blindfold would trap him in darkness until it was removed. She slowly surveyed the man who was curled up as much as he was able in his present position. She noticed the bruises on his cheeks that stood out against pale flesh. She could see a healing cut above his left eyebrow where he had been knocked unconscious before being brought to Earth. She continued to scan the man's body noticing he had lost some weight since being brought here. He was now losing weight that he needed. His clothes, those that hadn't yet been taken from him, hung on his body appearing three sizes too big for the man. Levinson spent little time making sure that Doctor Jackson's needs were being met. He withheld food from the man since the first day he arrived and other than encouraging her host and Jameson to get liquids into Doctor Jackson he did little else for the man. She often wondered how he planned to keep Doctor Jackson clear headed when he denied the man the basic need for food. What went on in Levinson's head? He wanted Doctor Jackson to remain alive and intact, yet he still neglected to provide his prisoner with adequate food and water. It just didn't make sense. As her eyes fell to Doctor Jackson's secured wrists she felt ill. Beneath those shackles were dark bruises and blood. Just by looking beneath his present restraints one could tell he's been kept constantly secured. Tail'ia knew she had no choice but to save this man before Levinson destroyed him.

Tail'ia found that she wanted to reach out to Doctor Jackson to provide him with comfort. She started to reach out to touch his face but stopped her hand in mid-air. What was she thinking? Was she crazy? She shook her head then inhaled shakily noticing the young man's head raise slightly. He then spoke, breaking the silence, in his soft-toned voice tinged now with pain and rawness, "Why are you still here? Why haven't you left yet?"

Tail'ia knew then that Doctor Jackson was now aware that she still remained with him. She answered, "I will leave but not just yet... Doctor Jackson, you must remain strong for your friends will come for you. They do not know where you are, but I will inform them. You must hold on."

"Yeah...for how long?" came his quiet reply spoken just above a whisper, but Tail'ia could hear him. She knew by that question that Doctor Jackson was becoming weary and tired of being beaten and abused. Anyone would quickly grow weary of being abused consistently every day.

She paused when she noticed Doctor Jackson suddenly jerk his head up muttering one word, "Anubis."

Anubis? Why was he speaking of Anubis? Tail'ia was now confused by that comment. How did he know of Anubis? Could he even know of the Tok'ra spy who was presently on Valhalla? If so, how? Anubis has been undercover almost as long as she has been. Tail'ia knew Anubis well for she had some feelings for him that could, by human standards, constitute as love. How could Doctor Jackson know of the Tok'ra spy?

She watched the man as he nodded his head as if he were speaking to someone within. She felt chills climb her spine. She had to be seeing things. It was impossible for Doctor Jackson to be doing that for if he were a host then she would sense his symbiote. He had no symbiote within so what prompted him to speak Anubis' name?

Daniel attempted to shift his position growing more and more frustrated and disheartened as he discovered just how minimal movement now was for him. He sighed heavily. When would he be free again? Or would he die here at the hands of his tormentors for refusing to do as they wanted? He closed his eyes and propped his head against the wall. He could sense his spirits were low. He was tired. He was tired of everything. He wanted the beatings to stop but knew that they wouldn't. No matter what was done to him he couldn't speak. He couldn't give Levinson, or his men, the help or the answers they sought.

He could feel himself teetering on the brink of despair. He was just so tired, angry, afraid and frustrated...his emotions were muddled at the moment. He just wanted to be free again. He hated the way emotions would flounder and change from one moment to another when you knew that you were a prisoner with little chance of escape. Some days you were very optimistic knowing you would eventually get away while other days, days like today, you felt helpless as if there were no escape for you and there never would be. Daniel cursed, violently yelling at himself for daring to even consider giving up. If he fell into despair then his captors would win. He couldn't let them win. He wouldn't let them win! His thoughts abruptly ended as he felt a familiar faint, feathery touch glide across his mind then a voice whispering in his head, ‘You must not give up hope, young one. For if you do then they will succeed. You must remain strong and fight with everything you have...’

He muttered, verbalizing aloud the name of the one speaking with him, "Anubis..."

Daniel was surprised to hear that voice again. He asked inside his mind, 'I thought our connection ended when you returned to your reality.'

'It did not. My host and I can still feel your pain, your emotions. We are still with you, Daniel. I believe our connection may be more permanent than we had first thought.'

'But how? Those rocks...'

'Yes, young one, something happened when we were switched on Tethys. We now share our mind, our thoughts with you. You are connected to us and we believe to the Anpu of your world. We have no knowledge of how this is even possible, but we are here. You must not give up...you are tired. Your mind is very tired. Rest young one rest. Sleep will heal you and rejuvenate you. Rest.'

Daniel didn't need any more coaxing as his eyes slid shut of their own accord and before long he was fast asleep.

Tail'ia wanted to know why Doctor Jackson spoke Anubis' name, but when she attempted to question him on the matter she realized that he was now deep asleep. She didn't have the heart to wake him. Doctor Jackson needed all the rest he was able to obtain to heal. She got to her feet after checking him once again then watched him in the silence. As she watched him rest in the very uncomfortable position his body was now in Tail'ia spoke to her host, "It is time."

Ayanna understood exactly what Tail'ia was saying and she replied, "We have to contact Jacob Carter."

"Yes or this man will not survive. He is badly beaten and already struggles to draw in breath. From the sounds of his inhalations he must have several broken ribs already. Levinson is now resorting to breaking his bones. He is still not healed from the lashing and he is starving. He has lost much weight. We must help him or he may not live."

"Yes, I would agree."

"Come, Ayanna, let us find a private location from which to transmit."

"Do you think contacting Jacob Carter is the right thing to do? Will it work? We can't reveal much to him or the SGC without Levinson suspecting that we were the source."

"We will provide the SGC and Jacob Carter with a name that should lead them to this location if they search long and hard enough."

"A name? But who?"

"Captain Conner. We must remain discrete but that does not mean we cannot help their search along. If our information does not aid them then we will have to speak with them again."

"Do you think Conner will talk?"

Tail'ia remained silent for the longest time before answering, "Yes, I do. The last time I saw him he did not look too happy. He does not agree with how Doctor Jackson is being treated here. He did not want to bring Doctor Fraiser here either."

"Yes, he did...He didn't seem too worried or upset about the matter."

"Ayanna, he brought Doctor Fraiser here for one reason and one reason only...because she could help Doctor Jackson."

"How can you be so sure?"

"It is mainly a feeling I have regarding the man. When we passed him in the hallway that day after he spoke with Levinson he looked as if something were greatly disturbing him. He probably saw Doctor Jackson after that brutal lashing and knew that he could not remain silent for much longer."

"I hope you're right, Tail'ia."

"As do I...for Doctor Jackson's sake. Come let us contact the Tok'ra."

After searching for a private place to contact the SGC and Jacob Carter both Ayanna and Tail'ia prepared their message.

* * * *

Jack O'Neill was now pacing anxiously back and forth behind Sam Carter, who was still working on the computer. She had conducted her search using some less than orthodox means to attain information. He knew something was wrong the moment she looked up from the computer screen nervously nibbling on her lower lip. Jack felt fear fill him when he glanced at her. He felt his body tense up as he prepared for the news she had to deliver. He spoke huskily, "Carter, what is it?"

Sam Carter had only suspected that Simmons could be involved in the disappearances of Janet and Daniel. She had hoped and prayed that she would find nothing connecting him to either of them, but as her search successfully yielded results she felt extreme fear fill her. Simmons was definitely involved with this whole situation. She had discovered that User 4574 had accessed Janet's personnel file multiple times in the last two weeks, which proved that he was involved, at least in her abduction. On a whim Sam accessed Daniel's personnel file to see if User 4574 had attempted to access it in a while. She paled as she noticed that Daniel Jackson's file had been accessed nearly as much as Janet's in the last two weeks. Simmons had been very busy reading up on Daniel and Janet. She didn't like the obvious connections she could see between the two disappearances and one particular employee of the Pentagon. What the hell would draw Simmons into this abduction? Could there be more to this entire situation than met the eye? She could understand someone needing Daniel's linguistic skills and Top Secret knowledge he had stored in his brain regarding the Stargate Program and all the places and races they met on their explorations but Simmons wouldn't get involved simply because Daniel was needed for translation work and information. There had to be another reason Simmons would involve himself in the case. Sam's mind wandered to her own abduction a few months ago. Without thought Sam cursed loudly drawing her CO's undivided attention. He looked at her now and questioned again, "Carter, what is it?"

"Simmons has been accessing Janet's file for the last two weeks. I did a spur of the moment check on Daniel's file also..."

"And?"

"And Simmons has been very busy. He has to be involved in Daniel's abduction...somehow."

"But why?"

"I may know why, sir."

"Carter?"

"We know he was taken for the knowledge he holds and his ability to translate and read Goa'uld...Anubis told us that much, but I don't believe these are the only two reasons Daniel was taken."

"Then why else?"

"Adrian Conrad."

"What?"

Adrian Conrad? What did that man have to do with this? Jack remembered that man very clearly for he had been involved in Sam's abduction several months ago. He was dying and had managed to get his hands on a Goa'uld larva. The larva was to be implanted in him to give him long life and to cure him, but no one had been sure what to expect. Sam was abducted for the fact that she had at one time been a host to a symbiote: Jolinar of Molkshur. Jack felt his anger rising as he recalled how they had to search for her and when they found her he had been shot...in the back while in pursuit of the man now harboring a Goa'uld symbiote within. They almost lost Carter on that mission, and he had almost died... He cursed as he realized where she was probably going with this, and he didn't like the thoughts that sprang into his mind.

Sam watched him waiting for the information to sink in and once she had his attention again she continued, "He has a symbiote in him now. Remember you were attacked from behind while pursuing him? What if...what if Simmons wanted to get his hands on a symbiote, a Goa'uld symbiote, to study and get information from?"

"Carter, you're not serious? Why would...what...why?"

"Why wouldn't he, Colonel? We have no idea what happened to Adrian Conrad. Simmons is a lot like Maybourne. Maybourne was willing to take Teal'c for study. If the Pentagon could get a hold of a host with a Goa'uld symbiote..."

"The host would become very valuable."

"Yes. The symbiote has an advantage though: it can speak in a language that no one on Earth understands or comprehends. No one except two other people...one is an alien and the other is..."

"HOLY SHIT! Daniel! Shit! You don't think..."

"Yes, I do."

"Shit, that's crazy!"

"But it would explain how Simmons is involved in this entire thing."

"Why does every thing seem to trace back to Simmons or Maybourne?"

"Sir?"

"Never mind."

"This is all theory, sir, but it would explain Simmons involvement, part of the reason Daniel was taken, why Conrad suddenly disappeared the day we were pursuing him and why you were shot in the back while in pursuit."

"You think Simmons shot me?"

"I think it's a very big possibility...and if the man could shoot someone, especially a Colonel, in the back without giving it a second thought then inducing pain on Daniel wouldn't bother him in the least..."

"As long as it yields responses."

"Yes. God, I hope Daniel isn't with Simmons and Maybourne. Neither of them like him all that much and probably wouldn't stop his interrogators unless Daniel was close to death..."

"Carter, please don't say that."

Sam fell silent a look of fear crossing her features for the briefest of instances before she gently reminded, "They abducted Janet, Colonel. We have to consider..."

Jack didn't like the sudden feel of certainty that seemed to now be traveling through him, for if his hunch was correct and Daniel was with Simmons or Maybourne then Daniel was in a hell of a lot of trouble. He quietly replied, "I know but putting it into words..."

"I know, Colonel. I know."

Neither of them wanted to believe that Simmons was somehow involved, but all the evidence indicated that he was. A tense silence fell over the room as Jack and Sam thought of the implications should Simmons be involved.

* * * *

Colonel Maybourne was growing rather impatient waiting for Levinson to get his information. Daniel Jackson still refused to cooperate. Hell, they even started to break bones but the man still refused to cooperate with Levinson. Maybourne was getting tired of it. His crazy boss was constantly pressuring him to get results faster than what Levinson was. He was beginning to regret even agreeing to help the man with his...problem, but that man could help him a lot, so he had reluctantly agreed to have a talk with Lance and James. His boss wanted to use a more persuasive tactic on the young archaeologist...a tactic that Maybourne didn't completely agree with. Any attempts he made to talk the man out of going to such extremes only met with silence. The bastard even threatened to reveal his whole damned operation to the SGC, the Tok'ra and even the goddamned Goa'uld if he didn't cooperate. He was definitely pissed off! He entered the new warehouse where Jackson was now imprisoned and searched for Lance and James. When he found Lance he questioned, "Where's James? I need to speak with both of you."

"He's coming. So what do you need now?"

Maybourne looked up as James entered the room. He then said, "What do I need now? You to continue to persuade Jackson to cooperate with Levinson."

"We've been doing that."

"I need you to take your interrogation up a notch."

Lance grinned evilly in Maybourne's direction. Maybourne actually shivered at that sinister look. Shit, was he doing the right thing by telling them to up their tactics a notch? Jackson was already in bad shape by telling them to push the man a bit more he was giving them permission to use more aggressive tactics on the man. He hoped his decision wasn't a mistake, but he was kind of stuck between a rock and a hard place. He immediately qualmed Lance's enthusiasm as he reiterated, "I don't want him dead. I want him in some pain. I need him alive. If you kill him then you forfeit your own lives. I also don't want him comatose and he needs to be able to do what we want him to so it's not a free for all..."

"Maybourne, you know us..." Lance innocently responded.

"Yes, I do which is why I can't specify enough NOT to permanently injure the man. All I want you to do, all I need you to do is increase your...persuasive tactics a notch or two. You're not being paid to murder him you're being paid to place him in pain. If he dies my boss will also put a contract out on your lives as well. He doesn't want Jackson dead he wants Jackson in extreme pain. Is that clear?"

"Yes, sir."

"Good. I don't want to return to find Jackson bleeding to death in his cell. You also have to make certain he's given water. Dehydration can kill very quickly..."

"Ayanna is taking care of that."

"Yes well, she hasn't been visiting him. He'll die quicker of dehydration than starvation so make sure he gets liquids. We need to keep Jackson alive for years to come. The man will be imprisoned for more than a couple of months, so don't let him die on us."

"No problem, Maybourne."

Nodding when he was sure he got his point across Maybourne casually changed the topic of discussion, "How has Levinson been about all this? Has he been becoming more lax with Jackson?"

"No, actually he's been giving us free rein to do with Jackson what we want. He's been ordering the man's bones broken, as well."

"Good. Glad to hear it. Keep your eye on him and make sure he doesn't go soft on us. If he does let me know and he'll be dealt with."

"Sure, boss."

Maybourne watched the two men a moment longer before turning to leave the room. He paused as he thought of the drug. He was told to deliver it or lose everything...should he give it to Jackson or not? The drug was experimental and would induce great pain. It could be a very persuasive device. He focused on Lance adding, "Lance..."

"Yes sir?"

He paused only a moment longer before continuing, "I have one other thing I'd like you to do."

"Which is?"

He pulled out the syringe showing it to Lance then continued, "Give this to Jackson...today."

"What is it?"

"A drug."

"A drug? Why?"

"It's experimental. It will cause severe pain. If beatings aren't working then perhaps this will."

Lance looked at Maybourne longer knowing that they were told not to give Jackson drugs, experimental or otherwise, because they needed him intact. He also knew that Maybourne answered to someone higher than himself and higher than Levinson...someone who was making all the demands. Maybourne would never resort to giving Jackson an experimental drug because he was too damned squeamish about that sort of thing. Lance was sure that Maybourne's boss made the order and if it wasn't carried out...they could all kiss their asses goodbye. He still had to question, "Will it kill him?"

"No. It's short-acting. It'll last up to forty-eight hours."

Lance tried not to look surprised by that answer as he questioned, "Forty-eight hours? How is that short-acting?"

"There are no long-term effects."

"Is it safe to..."

"It's been tested before. Trust me. It'll only cause him some...pain."

Lance watched Maybourne longer. He hesitated replying, "Levinson might not..."

"I don't care how Levinson feels about it! I want it administered! Jackson needs more persuasion. If he hasn't caved yet he won't. We need to push him just a bit more."

Lance shrugged his shoulders casually as he responded simply, "Okay."

Maybourne watched Lance longer wishing he could somehow prevent this from happening. Lance would do as he was told and give Jackson the injection whether or not Levinson wanted him to. The man extended his hand to accept the syringe and Maybourne hesitated no longer as he sat the syringe on Lance's palm. He continued, "Trust me. Will you? I know what I'm doing."

Lance nodded wrapping his fingers around the item. He watched as Maybourne quickly turned and left the room as fast as he was able...probably so he wouldn't second-guess his decision. After he was gone Lance once again focused on the syringe debating about the item a bit longer. When his mind was made up he headed to Jackson's cell preparing to give him the injection.

What none of them realized was that Ayanna had overheard the conversation. When she heard Maybourne's order she knew she had to tell Levinson about his plan. She waited until she could slip away undetected before heading to Levinson's office.

As Ayanna entered Levinson's office she faltered. Should she have checked on Doctor Jackson first? She was unsure of what to do. She could go to his cell and stay with him but that would only stall the inevitable. Lance and James could easily overpower her if they were determined enough and Doctor Jackson would get the drug anyway. She needed to find someone they would listen to. She entered Levinson's office. The man immediately turned to face her. She wasn't sure if telling him would make a difference or not.

Levinson turned as his door opened and smiled Ayanna's way as he questioned, "What is it, Ayanna?"

"Sir...I...I overheard Colonel Maybourne speaking with Lance and James..."

"Lance and James? What did he...?"

She was surprised to hear such vehemence coming from him upon the mention of the Colonel. She continued, "He told them to use more persuasive tactics on Doctor Jackson..."

"Why that son of a bitch!"

"He also told Lance to...give Doctor Jackson some experimental drug that will...induce pain..."

"Shit! Where the hell is that snake?"

"He left. He gave Lance a syringe and..."

"Where's Lance? Damn it, is he crazy? Using that experimental crap on a person what the hell is his problem?"

"He said it was tested before...that it won't kill Jackson just..."

"Of course it was tested. The NID are always developing insane drugs and ridiculous experiments! Where is Lance now?"

"Heading to Doctor Jackson's cell. He went to the bathroom..."

Without another backward glance Levinson exited the room and headed towards Doctor Jackson's cell determined to prevent Lance giving the man the experimental drug. Shit, Maybourne was not only dense he was incredibly stupid! The drug may have been tested, but who the hell knows what else it could do to the man! SHIT!

Meanwhile...

Lance entered Jackson's cell grinning when he once again noticed how the man was restrained. The position was perfect for the infuriating archaeologist. He approached noticing Jackson raising his head...so the man was awake? Well, good, he could taunt him a bit more. He chuckled saying, "Relax, Doctor Jackson, it's only me. I know how much you've been missing my company."

"Lance, what the hell do you want now?"

"You better watch how you speak to me. Right now I can do whatever I want to you."

"Why are you here?"

"I have a little something for you. It seems the Colonel is becoming increasingly more impatient with you."

"Is that so? What a surprise."

Lance glared at Doctor Jackson as he drew the needle out of his pocket and held it up preparing to inject the drug into Jackson. He moved closer to Doctor Jackson as he added, "Yes, that's so."

Daniel jumped when he realized that Lance was closer. He felt very uncomfortable with the man so near him. He winced as he felt a sudden pin prick in his arm. He jerked away cursing as he felt a burning sensation quickly travel down his arm. He forced himself to remain still as the drug was administered. He was unsure of what to expect. He jumped yet again as the door to his cell flew open striking the wall with a loud bang. He swallowed hard feeling every nerve standing on end. He automatically tensed as he heard Levinson's cold voice, "What the hell are you doing, Lance?"

Daniel shivered finding that he was very glad that obvious outrage in Levinson's voice wasn't directed his way. He listened to the exchange wondering what the hell Lance just gave him and hoping to get some answers from what he heard.

Lance looked up startled as he pulled the needle from Daniel's arm. Daniel winced louder as his arm throbbed in response. He knew that Levinson was pissed and obviously didn't support this decision.

Levinson demanded, "What the hell were you thinking? How dare you give him something without my permission!"

"News flash for you Levinson, I take my orders from Maybourne and he said to give the good doctor some happy juice."

"Lance, how incredibly stupid can you be? An..."

He stopped as Daniel winced loudly and groaned knowing that whatever the hell was in that syringe was already taking affect. Damn it! Levinson glared coldly in Lance's direction inquiring, "Just how fast acting is that shit?"

"I don't know."

"Do you even know what the hell you gave him?"

"A drug."

"A drug? Shit Lance, what kind of a drug? What does it do, what is it, how does it work?"

"Look Maybourne said it wouldn't kill him..."

Levinson looked at Lance shocked at what the man had done and his reasoning behind doing so. He shook his head once again catching a slight wince from the archaeologist. Shit, no damned drug was that fast acting and Jackson wouldn't be giving voice to his pain unless it was rather extreme. What the hell did Maybourne give him? Damn it, he was so pissed off now! He focused on Jackson noticing the man slowly pulling his knees to his chest and pressing his forehead against those knees. He was attempting to curl in on himself. God, the strain that position must be placing on the man's arms...he shook his head in disgust. What the hell had Maybourne been thinking? Damn it, how could he have not expected this? He turned back to Lance as he continued, "Maybourne said it wouldn't kill him? What else did he say?"

"It would cause pain."

"Anything else?"

"No."

"No? He didn't tell you what kind of pain it would induce? He didn't tell you if it would make Jackson sick? What the hell does it do, Lance?"

"I don't really know. He said it was experimental I..."

"Shit Lance, how could you have been so stupid? Experimental means that damned injection could do all kinds of nasty things to him. The NID's always creating new coercive drugs. They're always creating viruses...they dabble in everything..."

Lance acted as if he hadn't heard Levinson's last comment and casually added, "Oh, he also said it would last about forty-eight hours..."

"Forty-eight...DAMN!"

Levinson wanted to punch the man before him. Forty-eight hours? Shit! Jackson was already in pain and Levinson was certain that pain would become worse before it became better, and he couldn't even give the man anything to get through it because it could make things worse instead of better. Shit! What a mess! What a goddamn mess! God, how could he have left this happen? His main goal was to keep Jackson out of Maybourne's hands so he couldn't do shit like this to the man! How could he have not expected this? How? As he heard Jackson's sudden sharp intake of breath he once again cursed glancing at the young archaeologist who was attempting to curl in on himself even more now. He demanded, "Where the hell is Maybourne now? I need to have a word with him."

"He left."

"That son of a bitch!"

"Look..."

"No, you look! What you just did was incredibly stupid! I don't want any experimental stuff used on my prisoner...ever!"

"Maybourne's..."

"Fuck Maybourne! I wouldn't trust him with my worst enemy! I can't believe..."

His voice trailed off as he heard Jackson's low curse. He glanced at the man noticing that he seemed even paler. What the hell did that drug do? It obviously was fast acting because Jackson was quite obviously feeling the effects already. He turned back to Lance inquiring, "Is there any of that stuff left in..."

"A little."

"Give it to me."

"Why? What are you going to do with it?"

"Have it analyzed, if I can. I need to know what to expect..."

"Analyzed? Yeah, right. You're crazy, Levinson!"

"Just give me the damned syringe."

"Sure."

He handed it to Levinson then started leaving the room. Levinson watched him allowing the man to go. He was sure if he didn't he'd beat the shit out of the guy. Once Lance was gone he approached Doctor Jackson kneeling before him he questioned, "Doctor Jackson?"

Daniel heard him but didn't look up. The last thing he wanted was this man to see any more indications of the pain now swamping him. He had listened to the exchange between Levinson and Lance noticing the tensions were now very high. Things were starting to obviously fall apart. When Levinson spoke of the drug being experimental Daniel became very worried. His worry only increased as his blood seemed to pound furiously through his veins leaving a burning trail behind. As sudden cramping clenched in his stomach and his head started to pound very loudly Daniel knew that he was in trouble. God, he was going to be sick! He felt the bile attempting to rise but nothing happened. He struggled to suffer the anguish in silence but still put voice to it. As the pain in his head tripled he felt lightheaded and dizzy. What in the hell was in that damned drug? He attempted to curl in on himself the best he could in his present condition as yet another wave of nausea swept through him. He was vaguely aware of the door opening and shutting and was startled as Levinson spoke his name. He didn't even acknowledge the man so focused on his own agony that he could focus on little else. Levinson's voice came to him again, followed shortly by light pressure against his face. He inhaled sharply aware that Levinson was touching him. He attempted to pull away from the unwanted contact but once again sharp, stabbing pain gripped his stomach. He groaned pushing his forehead into his knees in an effort to keep his face hidden from Levinson. The last thing he needed was to show this man how much pain he was now in. He heard Levinson say something about sending Ayanna to him and swore he heard the man apologizing for allowing this to happen. Apologizing? Shit, maybe the drug also made one delirious to bat. As another flash of pain shuddered mercilessly through his body he attempted to curl up tighter drawing some small comfort from doing so.

Levinson once again cursed apologizing to the young man for not keeping him safe from Maybourne's insane form of revenge. He knew part of the reason Maybourne told Lance to give Jackson the drug was so he could draw some revenge from making the man suffer severely. He noticed Doctor Jackson curling up even more as obvious pain once again sliced through him. He had to do something. He exited the room, locating Ayanna, he told her to go tend to Doctor Jackson. He hoped in sending her there it would provide the man with some small amount of comfort.

He headed to Doctor Fraiser's cell. As he entered she glared at him. He ignored the glare and approached her. Without hesitation he questioned, "How good are you at analyzing...?"

Janet continued to glare at him wondering what all the hell he did to Daniel. She remained stubbornly silent for several minutes before asking, "Why do you want to know?"

Levinson sighed heavily sure that honesty would probably be the only thing that would get her to respond. He pulled out the syringe and showed it to her saying, "I need the contents in this syringe analyzed."

"Why?"

He turned from her as he mustered the courage to continue. She would be furious and he knew that she would, but he needed her cooperation. He focused on her again as he answered, "This is an experimental drug of some kind created by the NID for...interrogation purposes."

"Interrogation? Daniel...did...was he...?"

“Yes. Maybourne got to one of my men and told him to give this to Jackson. Had I known I would have been able to prevent the whole thing, but I arrived too late. Lance managed to get a decent amount of the stuff into Jackson before I stopped him. I have no idea what it is. All he could tell me was that it's a pain inducer with effects that will last up to forty-eight hours. Maybourne told him it wouldn't kill Jackson just cause him pain but...I don't trust Maybourne at all. He's too bent on seeking his damned revenge on Jackson."

Janet looked up at Levinson knowing he just provided her with more information then he really needed to. She wondered why he would do so. She also wondered why Maybourne's actions were bothering him so much. Why was he so bothered by the fact that Daniel was given a drug? The man had no qualms about beating Daniel or breaking his bones, yet he was concerned about a drug? It didn't make sense. She was fast learning that their captor was very complex and very unpredictable. Maybe he liked keeping people off balance and that's how he kept control. She had no idea.

Levinson noticed her eyeing him up and could tell that she was reading his thoughts and emotions in his eyes. He attempted to justify what he's doing, "Look Doctor Fraiser, my job is to interrogate him and to get his cooperation using whatever means necessary. I don't have any qualms about doing my job..."

"Of course..." came her brisk reply.

Levinson continued, "But I sure as hell refuse to make him completely defenseless knowing that there are several people involved who want nothing more than to make him that way so they can do whatever the hell they want to him. I refuse to give him drugs...unless absolutely necessary and I refuse to use experimental things on him. I refuse to leave Doctor Jackson completely defenseless. Those are my rules..."

Janet was rather surprised to hear those words coming from Levinson. So the man did have a heart in there... although it was rather small he did seem genuinely concerned and worried about Daniel. She was also sure that he is being honest with her. She questioned, "What do you need me to do?"

Levinson sighed in relief as she offered her cooperation. He wasn't sure if she could analyze the drug, but he wanted her to do something. He couldn't just allow this to happen without attempting to help Jackson. If he had just been paying attention more this would never have happened to begin with.

* * * * * *

Colonel O'Neill was definitely not happy. Sutekh took Doctor Jackson quite a while ago. He was worried. Damn, he was actually worried! He arose to his feet unable to sit still as he thought of what all the evil Goa'uld lord was doing to his friend...did he just say friend? No way. When was the last time he called Doctor Jackson a friend? He was an acquaintance, a teammate not a friend. A friend indicated that he actually cared for the man and O'Neill wasn't about to care for anyone. Friends only left you...just like family. To say Doctor Jackson was a friend was to admit that the man would die because anyone who got close to Jack O'Neill always left him, always died. Caring was a very dangerous thing, indeed. It implied the giving of his heart and when he opened his heart to someone death usually found them. He couldn't deal with that loss again...or could he? He remembered the warning the alternate Daniel Jackson gave him...if he refused to let anyone get close to him then he would die a very lonely man. Did he really want to grow old and die, pass on with no one to care that he was no more? Did he really want to lie on his deathbed staring at the ceiling wondering why he was so alone? He shuddered. No, he didn't want to be alone any more. He spent the last four years that way and was now miserable, but if he allowed Doctor Jackson to get close to him... Jack jerked his head up as he heard a scream pierce the air. His heart rate tripled and he felt a sympathetic pang stab straight to his chest. My God was that another prisoner or was that...Daniel?

He started pacing rapidly back and forth as his mind exposed him to a lovely array of graphic images of the things Sutekh could be doing to Daniel right now. Shit, he couldn't deny his feelings any longer. He did care for Daniel Jackson and he did want to have the man as a friend once more. He glanced up as a guard cleared his throat rather loudly. When he focused on the man he recognized Isis' First Prime, Ka'tar.

Ka'tar questioned, "Why do you look so troubled?"

"What?"

"I see that Sutekh has once again returned for your friend...and for Anubis. You worry yourself over his welfare do you not?"

Jack glanced away as Ka'tar continued, "Ah yes. I see that you do. You seem as if you care deeply for your friend, yet when you look at him all I see is hatred and anger. Why is that? Why do humans act such ways?"

"You don't care about us so why ask?"

"It is true that I was raised with the beliefs that the Tau'ri were merely slaves who could not think for themselves, who were animals. I no longer believe that is so."

"Oh so when did this brilliant revelation come to you?"

Ka'tar held O'Neill's stern gaze as he answered, "On the day I watched your friend become host to My Lord Anubis. I still recall his screams of pain and the fear he felt when he knew what was about to occur. I still recall his many attempts to free himself from the guards and from the restraints that bound him to the altar. He is a very spirited one. I will never forget what I witnessed on that day. I vowed to protect him if I could."

Jack didn't believe the Goa'uld for a minute. He snapped, "He has a snake in him and because you didn't stop them he's no more."

Ka'tar eyed up the furious human casting a speculative look the man's way before continuing, "Ah, but he is. I know that Daniel Jackson is still there trapped inside his own mind by the Goa'uld imprisoning him."

Jack spoke immediately without thought, "He's not trapped they're..."

Jack snapped his mouth shut as he realized what he almost revealed. He was finally beginning to accept that Daniel and Anubis would remain together...great time to verbalize his acceptance. Shit, wasn't he already told that if it were discovered that Daniel and Anubis were equals they would be executed for being Tok'ra spies? Damn it, what the hell had he been thinking?

Ka'tar jerked his head up as Colonel O'Neill made that statement. Another person confirmed what he has been suspecting. Anubis was probably one of those Tok'ra he had heard so much about. If he were then Daniel Jackson was very aware of everything even when Anubis was dominant. They were truly equals if Anubis was a Tok'ra. That would explain the time Anubis had been injured and he knew, was certain, that the host was dominant as he tended to him. Ka'tar had seen the spirit shining in the young man's eyes. Now as he recalled that day he hadn't seen any real fear or defeat in that gaze. In fact, the host seemed...content, very content. If Anubis were truly suppressing his host by exposing him to constant pain the host would not have seemed so calm. At the time he convinced himself that he was seeing Anubis. He had believed that no host survived though ever since that day he had a nagging feeling in the back of his mind that refused to subside. Ever since that day he contemplated the idea of host and symbiote both still being alive and present within the body but only the Goa'uld was in control always. When he thought about the issue he became even more positive that the Goa'uld were obsessed with power and control and were not gods at all.

O'Neill watched Ka'tar in silence wondering what was going through the man's mind. Ka'tar focused on him yet again saying, "Your friend is very interesting, indeed."

Jack cocked his head to the side slightly confused by that comment before continuing, "Why are you here? What do you want from him?"

"Nothing. I merely want to free him from Sutekh...and from Isis."

Jack stared disbelievingly Ka'tar's way wanting to say something but not being able to form the words.

Ka'tar eyed him levelly as he continued, "I see that this surprises you."

Jack didn't think he merely answered, "Uh...yeah..."

"You cannot comprehend why it is that I, a Goa'uld, would desire such a fate for Daniel Jackson. Colonel O'Neill, he does not deserve what he has been given."

"Oh I see. Because he's a Tau'ri, a slave, he doesn't deserve to have a snake in him..."

"No Colonel O'Neill, That is not what I am saying and you know that it is not. He does not deserve to suffer simply because My Queen...desires to keep him as her own."

Jack didn't speak. He only glared at the Goa'uld before it continued, "He belongs to her. She owns Anubis and she owns his host. He is her Pharaoh. She has effectively trapped him. Do you know why Daniel Jackson was separated from your team upon your arrival on Maline?"

Jack glared at him all too aware of the feelings and the guilt that accompanied that question. Oh yes, he knew. He definitely knew. She had plans for his young teammate. As soon as she saw him she probably desired to possess him totally and completely. He knew for it was his mistake, his failure, to protect his own, to protect a member of his team that brought Doctor Jackson to this point in time. Had he resisted, complained, fought for his teammate instead of watching silently as he was led away by Isis' First Prime, by this man who now stood before him, Daniel Jackson's life might have ended up very different.

Ka'tar answered his own question, "I see that you do."

Jack wondered why this Goa'uld seemed so interested in his friend. What the hell was going on in the snake's head? Why was he being so emphatic about wanting to help Daniel? Jack continued to stare at the snake trying to understand him, trying to figure out why a Goa'uld would want to help a human.

Ka'tar watched the Colonel silently. He was very aware that O'Neill was now off-balance. The man was trying to figure out why a Goa'uld would be concerned about anyone, anything, but himself. This man before him believed that all Goa'uld were inherently evil and incapable of caring for anything but their own self-interests. Ka'tar shook his head then said, "You do not understand me and this makes you afraid. You are full of questions, so many questions. I can see them burning in your eyes. You cannot comprehend why I would desire to help a Tau'ri, a man who I was brought up to believe was a simple slave. To you I am incapable of feeling, of caring for another. You believe us all completely self-serving. I confuse you and you do not like to be confused."

Jack glanced briefly at Ka'tar finding that he was very confused, indeed. Ka'tar obviously was very attentive to notice his emotions, his feelings, so easily. Ka'tar was also correct. He just couldn't understand, couldn't believe, that a Goa'uld could care for another.

Ka'tar allowed the silent seconds to stretch into minutes before continuing, "I am First Prime to Isis. I am a Jaffa who carries an infant Goa'uld for my queen. My duty is to protect her and anyone she desires to have protected. I have many other duties but this duty I place above all others. I am sworn to protect her and anyone else she desires to have protected. Daniel Jackson is my responsibility. It is my job, my duty, to protect him..."

"Protect Anubis you mean?"

"Yes, but my duty also entails that I am responsible for protecting Daniel Jackson as well. I will not leave Avaris without him."

"So you only want to help him because it's your duty?"

"No. I want to free him from Isis and Sutekh, but I will not leave his side once he is free unless he requests it of me."

"What? What the hell..."

Jack fell completely silent as another pain-filled scream pierced the air. He felt the hair on the back of his neck raise on end. He knew that voice all too well for that voice would often haunt his dreams and nightmares. The voice belonged to Daniel. Daniel was screaming and from the sounds of that scream he was in unbearable pain. He glanced at Ka'tar knowing but not caring that his face reflected his fear and horror of hearing that scream. Upon focusing on Ka'tar Jack couldn't speak for the Jaffa's face reflected that same horror as well. The Jaffa held his gaze only a moment longer before turning and rushing out of the dungeons. Jack knew exactly where that Jaffa was heading. He was going to Daniel and he was most likely going to attempt to stop Sutekh from doing whatever the hell he was now doing to the man to make him scream like that. Jack unconsciously wrapped his arms around himself feeling suddenly cold and very afraid. As another of Daniel's screams were wrenched from the man to fill the air Jack started pacing and silently urging Daniel to please hold on.

* * * *

Pain. The pain was immense. His head was pounding. He desperately fought not to scream knowing his sounds of suffering would only satisfy Sutekh's sick twisted enjoyment. He also didn't want to hear the sounds of his own screams echoing around him bouncing off the walls and carrying to the dungeons where the other prisoners would become terrified upon hearing them knowing that their lord was again tormenting someone. He tried to resist but his body was already battered. Anubis was once again unconscious. Sutekh had beaten them then whipped them. When he lost consciousness the evil Goa'uld lord had used some kind of strong smelling concoction that brought him back to the anguish, to the aches and pains now thrumming throughout his body. He was tired and Anubis was tired. Why wouldn't the evil lord allow them a brief respite? Why was he so insistent on driving into them again and again? He knew, Anubis knew, the Goa'uld lord could beat and brutalize them all he wanted until he grew tired of the game for he knew that Anubis would once again heal his host so that they could both be brought before the evil lord for further punishing. They also knew that Sutekh had his own sarcophagus. Anubis had explained to him months ago how the simple technology could return one to life. Should they die by Sutekh's hands he would only throw them in the sarcophagus to return them to life once more and begin his torments anew. They were trapped with no escape. They were trapped by the enemy of Isis...an enemy that would never let them go, an enemy that only desired to make Isis suffer by using her precious Beloved to do so. Theirs was to be a life of constant pain and suffering until they were rescued or Ka'tar helped them to escape...or until death found them both.

As Daniel thought of Ka'tar he wondered where the First Prime was. He only had a fleeting moment to think before the pain once again erupted inside his skull. The evil lord was wielding that damned hand device again and this time no matter how determined he was, how much effort he put forth, Daniel could no longer remain silent as a desperate scream of rage, anguish and pain tore forth from his slightly parted lips. He tried to focus on something, on anything, but the pain was filling his mind, numbing it, clouding out all possible thoughts, all attempts to remain clearheaded. He saw darkness hovering just beyond his reach taunting him and urging him to follow. He found he desperately wanted to do just that but knew that Sutekh would only wake him and start all over again.

Daniel lost track of how many times the Goa'uld used that damned hand device to drill into his skull. At last count it was five, no six? Ah hell, he couldn't remember. Shouldn't he be dead by now? What the hell was that damned device doing to his head, to his brain, anyway? As much as the pain burned and filled his mind you'd think it would kill him. As the device fell silent yet again Daniel nearly sighed aloud dropping his head forward trying vainly to ignore the taste of blood on his lips. Shit, he'd bitten into his goddamned lip that time. Shit! He found that he was very thankful Anubis was no longer conscious for it would hurt his friend more to silently witness and experience the pain now surrounding him. Sutekh had played with Anubis for a while but once he grew tired of toying with him he turned his attention to his host rendering Anubis unconscious so he could enjoy tormenting him. Daniel wondered if the snake would ever grow tired of torturing him. My God, how long have they been here in this room already today? How much time has gone by since they were once again brought before Sutekh? Daniel didn't know, didn't really care at the moment as his mind focused intently on the pain yet again. They had so many cuts, so many bruises. Sutekh had truly tortured them both today. He made sure to work them over well. There wasn't a single spot on his body that didn't feel some degree of pain at the moment.

Daniel's thoughts came to an abrupt halt as he heard the door open. He heard a familiar voice addressing Sutekh. He knew that voice but couldn't place it. He attempted to lift his head earning himself more anguish as the simple movement forced a painfully loud groan to escape from his lips. He heard the laughter, heard it and hated it. Despised the one who still remained before him laughing at him, laughing at his suffering and laughing at Anubis' suffering. Daniel managed enough energy to yell an insult at the dark lord in Goa'uld. The insult was not easily accepted as he felt the heat against his forehead, heard the eerie hiss as the Goa'uld hand device was once again activated by its owner. Instantly pain greeted him, filled him and attempted to claim him. He screamed loudly as the device continued to drill and bore into his skull destroying the tight grasp Daniel was attempting to maintain on consciousness. His world exploded into inky blackness as the ringing in his ears seemed to match the hum of the hand device. A brilliant light exploded behind his vision drawing dim quickly then he felt no more as that seductive blackness reached up, surrounded him, grabbed him and pulled him under into oblivion, into the blessed unconsciousness.

Sutekh's attention was drawn to the door as he was once again interrupted. He glanced at the invader then focused on his prisoner still hanging by his shackled wrists from the ceiling. He swept his eyes over the man's body grinning as he noticed the many bleeding cuts and bruises on that body. When his eyes focused on the floor he felt a thrill running through him as he saw the bright red puddle of blood now lying beneath his prisoner. As the man groaned Sutekh laughed. He finally had complete control over Isis' Beloved. He had it and he wasn't about to let it go. He had half a notion to keep the man and Anubis alive until he tired of tormenting them. He enjoyed today's festivities immensely and couldn't wait until Anubis once again healed his host. He wanted to begin all over again. His laugh was abruptly ended as the human threw back an insult...in perfect Goa'uld. Well, it would seem that Anubis' host was quite attentive even when Anubis kept him constantly suppressed. He was rather impressed by the human's ability to speak the language of the gods. He grinned as he once again pressed the hand device to the man's forehead and activated it. As the human released a scream of agony Sutekh smirked. Yes, those screams, oh how he loved to hear the suffering of his victims. As the human crumpled before him Sutekh deactivated the device turning to the guard he simply ordered, "Return the prisoner to his cell."

"Yes, My Lord."

Ka'tar kept his eyes hooded as the Goa'uld lord focused on him and gave him the order to return his prisoner to his cell. As Sutekh turned and exited the room Ka'tar sighed. He then focused on the man in the room. He had hoped that Sutekh would not be so cruel this time, but as he made his way rapidly to the man's side he was appalled by all the injuries the man now had. He shook his head sadly as he quietly spoke, "I am sorry, My Lord. I have failed to protect you this day. I am sorry."

He quickly undid the shackles feeling his heart aching as the man crumpled before him. Ka'tar caught him in his arms refusing to allow his lord to strike the floor. As his arms came in contact with Daniel's back he froze hearing the man cry out in anguish. The man began to toss his head back and forth from side to side in obvious discomfort. Ka'tar grew sadder as he knew that he should have tried to prevent this. He also knew that if he had interfered his cover would now be blown. He had no choice. He lowered his voice to barely a whisper saying, "Relax, young one, I am only moving you to another room. I must return you to your Colonel O'Neill. He is very fearful and concerned about you. Be silent, be calm, young one. Please."

Ka'tar exhaled as he noticed the man instantly calming in his arms. He was very glad for that. He gently hoisted Daniel into his arms feeling guilt slicing through him as the man continued to voice his pain in quiet whimpers and moans. Sutekh had, indeed, been very cruel and brutal towards his lord this day.

Ka'tar carried the young man to his cell careful not to jar him any more than was absolutely necessary. When he approached the cell Colonel O'Neill was up staring at him and at the precious burden in his arms. Ka'tar could see the anger and condemnation there in Colonel O'Neill's eyes. The man did not understand that for Ka'tar to interfere on Anubis or Daniel's behalf would only get them killed and therefore no one would be able to rescue them. Ka'tar, however, made no comments or excuses. He merely accepted O'Neill's silent anger and rage as his due. He unlocked the cell carrying Daniel inside. He spoke softly, "I must...secure him to the wall. If I do not then Sutekh will know that I am not who I pretend to be."

O'Neill said nothing only continued to glare at him with unspoken vehemence and rage. He held Ka'tar's gaze only a few moments longer before turning to the one in the Jaffa's arms. As his eyes fell to the silent man in Ka'tar's arms Jack felt his heart lurch in his chest. My God Sutekh had done much worse than last time. His friend was pale and looked so frail, so small in the Jaffa's strong arms. Jack couldn't speak, couldn't breathe, as he thought of all the suffering Daniel had obviously been put through today.

Ka'tar noticed the pain and anger in the Colonel's eyes as he took in the young man's appearance. He could think of nothing else to say except, "He will be all right, O'Neill. Anubis will heal him."

"Yeah, so Seth can do worse to him next time."

Ka'tar lowered his head as he simply replied, "Such is the way of things."

"When the hell are you getting us out of here?"

Ka'tar glared at O'Neill as he commented in a hushed tone of voice, "Do not speak so loud, O'Neill. The walls have ears. If it is discovered why I am here then you and Daniel Jackson will have no chance at escape. You must silence your tongue before you condemn him and yourself to death!"

Jack jumped in response to that comment silently cursing himself for being so damned thickheaded. Ka'tar was right, if anyone had heard what he just said so loudly then he might very well have pissed away Daniel's last chance at freedom. Damn it, why was he so stupid at times?

Ka'tar spoke softly, "And now you understand...I see that you are realizing the severity of your predicament. This is good...I must return to Sutekh before he seeks to locate me. Anubis will heal your friend, but it will take time."

"So I can't do anything for him?" replied the man in a voice lined with defeat.

Ka'tar softened his voice as he answered, "Yes, there is something you can do."

"What?" came the hopeful reply.

Ka'tar was a bit confused about these humans. They were very emotional creatures and a very complex species. Knowing O'Neill awaited a response Ka'tar continued in his soothing voice, "Be a friend to him. Be his supporter. Do not leave him suffer this alone. O'Neill, he needs you now more than ever before. You must destroy the hatred, the anger, you feel for this young one within you. If you do not then you will only hurt him more."

"How would you know?"

"Colonel O'Neill, only a fool could not see with his own eyes how much this young one cares for you."

Only a fool? Well, he was the biggest fool. How could a snake see something that he couldn't? He had been so angry and so blinded by hate the last four years that he had failed to realize that Daniel Jackson still loved and cared for him, still considered him a friend and constantly forgave him for any indiscretion no matter how much pain it caused him. God, he didn't deserve the man as a friend. What kind of a friend would treat another as badly as he had treated Doctor Jackson? He was the biggest fool of all.

Jack watched in mute silence as Ka'tar gently sat Daniel down then worked on restraining him to the wall. Daniel jerked awake as soon as the cold metal of the manacle touched his wrist. He attempted to jerk away muttering, "No, no, please...no."

As Jack heard the obvious distress in his young friend's voice he discovered that he wanted to reach out and soothe the man's fears, soothe his pain and soothe his suffering but instead of reaching out he continued to silently observe the two.

Ka'tar understood Daniel's sudden plea. The man hated being restrained and locked up, but there was nothing that he could do. He merely spoke in that comforting tone of voice, "Shh, shh, My Lord, you must not resist me. I must do this."

Daniel snapped his eyes open upon hearing a voice speaking to him and as he turned his eyes towards Ka'tar he sighed in relief then asked, "Why?"

"My Lord if I do not then Sutekh will become suspicious."

"Ka'tar...I'm not your lord. You don't have to address me as such."

"You are my lord..."

"No. He's asleep."

"Do you not think I know of this already My Lord Daniel?"

Daniel stared at him for the longest time before Ka'tar continued, "I know that it is with you I am speaking. I have been watching you My..."

"Daniel, please."

"Daniel. I know that you are not suppressed as I have been told."

Daniel broke eye contact then quickly turned from Ka'tar unable to maintain it. Ka'tar gently questioned, "You are Tok'ra are you not? My Lord Anubis...he is Tok'ra..."

Daniel gasped and stared back at Ka'tar unaware that he provided Ka'tar with an answer already. Ka'tar nodded his head before continuing, "It is as I have suspected. This I am happy to learn. I have been fearful that Anubis has been using pain to gain your silence. I am glad that such is not the case. Do not fear so, young one. I will keep your secret safe. Now I must restrain you. I am deeply sorry but this I must do. I have no choice. Do you understand?"

Daniel stared at him for the longest time before nodding his head and reluctantly allowing Ka'tar to once again place the hated chains back on his wrists. He winced as the metal dug into his sore, bleeding wrists. Ka'tar said, "I have tried to make them as loose as I dare so as not to cause you further pain. I am sorry."

“S'okay. I'm fine. Really," came Daniel's tired response. Daniel fell silent as Ka'tar nodded then prepared to leave. He said, "I will bring you water. You are in need of it."

"Thank you."

Ka'tar nodded his head then left locking the cell once again. Daniel listened to his fading footsteps preparing to relax when he felt suddenly ill. He cursed rather loudly as he struggled not to scream. Jack was instantly at his side asking if he was all right. All he could muster was a quick, "Oh God, Jack...hurts...hurts...badly..."

Jack swept his eyes over Daniel noticing the tons of cuts and bruises across the man's body. He felt rage fill him knowing that Sutekh did this. He also noticed the light burn marks on the bridge of the man's nose and on his forehead. He hated to think of what caused those marks. Yet as his eyes took in all the marks he sensed that Daniel's newest pain had a different source and immediately questioned, "What does? What hurts? Tell me, Daniel. Tell me."

Daniel only shook his head refusing to speak of what he feared was occurring. He was only vaguely aware of Jack pulling him into his arms and holding him, offering him comfort in touch. Jack must be sitting against the wall. There was no other way he could have pulled him against him. He allowed himself to be held by the man now with him. He needed the physical touch desperately and felt safe in Jack's embrace. Daniel allowed his eyes to drift shut as he focused internally searching and reaching out for the one he was sure was suffering. As he connected he felt the man's fear enter him, which confirmed his guess as to what was occurring. The pain he was feeling inside, the twisting in his gut, the agony thrumming through his body was not his own. The pain was that of another so like him in much the same predicament. He tried to distance himself knowing the pain in the other would only trap him as well but as he heard the silent cries of anguish that the man refused to give voice to, as he sensed the tears of agony that wanted to fall but the man held desperately at bay he knew he could not distance himself for that man's pain was now his own.

He knew he had to break off the contact somehow or he would unwillingly be sending his own pain back towards the man as well. The connection between them was not one-way as Daniel had hoped their connection was two-way for as the man screamed silently telling him, ordering him to withdrawal Daniel knew his alternate could feel his presence. They could feel one another and neither wanted to cause the other any more pain yet neither seemed to possess the ability to keep their selves separate at the moment. They were now sharing one another's pain. As he heard Jack asking him again what was wrong he quickly realized that he could do something for his alternate. He could channel the comfort he was drawing from his Jack towards his alternate to help ease some of his suffering. He attempted to do just that, but could still feel his twin resisting the connection and trying to break it. He refused to give up as he spoke aloud without thought, "Daniel please, you must accept what I'm offering. We can't do this alone. Please Daniel. Take what I'm offering to you."

O'Neill was now confused. What the hell was wrong with Daniel? He was talking as if to another person and calling him Daniel. What the hell? His fear and worry for his friend only increased as the man spoke prompting O'Neill to ask, "Daniel, what the hell is going on?"

Daniel shook his head as he simply answered, "He's in pain. He needs help to get through it. I can't block him, can't block the pain...connections too strong right now...can't break it..."

"What are you talking about?"

"Him...him and I...Anubis we're all connected. We don't understand how it's happened but it is so. We're connected some how...have been since the day we were switched..."

"What? What are you talking about? Whom are you talking about?"

"Him, Daniel...my alternate...we're connected somehow...he's in trouble... He was given an injection... Maybourne, NID...experimental... He needs us but he doesn't want to burden us, doesn't want to make us suffer with him."

"Us?"

"Anubis and I...even the Anubis of his reality. He needs us but refuses to call for us...says the pain is his to suffer alone."

"Daniel, you're not making sense. What the hell is going on?"

Daniel screamed as the pain in his double began reaching unbearable proportions. He could also hear his alternate screaming now, unable to keep silent as the drug he had been given was hurling more anguish, more pain at him. He opened his eyes to focus intently on O'Neill clutching the man's shirt as he pleaded, "Hold us, please...please Jack. Just hold me."

Us? Hold US? What the hell was that supposed to mean? As Daniel asked again Jack wrapped his arms firmer around him not sure of what the hell was going on but sure that if he didn't hold on to his Daniel he just might lose him to whatever pain he was now suffering through. As Daniel's eyelids slid shut Jack felt very afraid. He noticed the lines of pain now etched on the young man's face and knew, could tell, that Daniel was in great pain. He felt helpless as he watched the man listening to him breathing and not knowing, not even understanding, just what was going on with him. All he knew was that Daniel was in extreme anguish and suffering. All he knew was that he had to hold on to the man. He continued to hold Daniel not wanting to release him, afraid to release him. He knew that his hold had to be extremely painful for Daniel was badly beaten and lashed but each time he attempted to ease his hold to make the pain more bearable Daniel whimpered or cried out instantly settling when Jack would once again increase the hold. Either way whether he held him tightly or relaxed his hold on the young man he knew that he would still cause him pain, but holding him tightly seemed to be keeping the man much calmer than relaxing that hold, so Jack maintained it.

* * * *

General Hammond wasn't sure if joining with the...Tok'ra as they called themselves, was the right thing to do. All he knew is that they were probably Doctor Jackson and Colonel O'Neill's only hope. He tried to remain optimistic about this shaky alignment they now have with the Tok'ra. The Tok'ra have said nothing about becoming allies, merely said that they would help retrieve Doctor Jackson who was now obviously one of them...or at least he carried one of them within. This whole situation only seemed to be getting weirder and weirder by the minute. As Hammond noticed the time he arose and headed to the briefing room. It was now time to see what the Tok'ra had decided. Would they even be willing to provide a ship in this rescue mission? God, Hammond hoped so. All he wanted was Doctor Jackson and Colonel O'Neill right back here where they both belonged. He sighed once more before composing himself then entered the briefing room prepared to hear the Tok'ra's final decision on this rescue attempt...

Next:

PART 10

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