SG-1 Team

 

                                                                       The Night Sun Part 5

                                                                                                                       By:  Stacy L.

 

 

PART V

 

When Osiris still had not heard of Doctor Jackson's death he decided to check on the human. He entered Daniel's cell and walked over to him. He was sure the man still drew breath, so in anger he lashed out gripping a handful of Daniel's hair and jerking his head upright. Daniel's scream of anguish pierced the morning air causing Osiris to curse. The human was still alive!  How was that possible? Osiris was positive he should've been dead by now. He was angry. Doctor Jackson still drew breath when he should be dead! Osiris only remained angry a little while longer before a cruel twisted smirk crossed his features. Jackson was still alive, therefore, still in a lot of pain. Osiris decided that this was perfect. He could toy with the man longer.  He laughed harshly as he thought of how long Jackson has survived and how much pain he had and still is enduring as a result. He then said, "Yes a long painfully drawn out death is just what you deserve, Doctor Jackson." Then he started laughing diabolically.

 

Daniel awoke to the sounds of the insane laughter, which sent chills throughout his body. He opened his eyes realizing that the laughter was coming from Sarah...the image was very disturbing.

 

Osiris stopped laughing as he noticed that his prisoner was now awake. He looked at Daniel, yanking his head back further by his hair erupting a low groan from his hostage, then ran his fingers across Daniel's face. He noticed how Daniel again attempted to jerk away, but only seized his hair tighter stilling the man's struggles...for the moment. He glared at Daniel saying, "Indeed you are stronger than I had first realized. I am very pleased to see that I have acquired such a strong spirited captive. We shall greatly enjoy an eternity together...or rather I shall enjoy making you suffer for all eternity, Doctor Jackson."

 

Daniel glared coldly at Osiris feeling rage and anger again fill him. He wanted to kill Osiris so badly. He greatly despised the Goa'uld who imprisoned Sarah, stole her life away and was greatly enjoying watching him suffering.

 

Osiris continued, "I shall enjoy watching the life go out of you only to see it reborn again. Your deaths will be slow and painful, Doctor Jackson. I promise you that. There will be no quick deaths for you. I shall enjoy watching you bleed slowly to death...again and again...as the blood flows freely from your veins slowly draining the life out of you. How long do you think you will last? How many times will you be able to survive your own death before you go insane as you believe you are getting peace only to realize that I am again pouring life back into you? Prepare yourself for an eternity of endless pain and agony. I will cherish the day you finally beg me for forgiveness and beg me to let you die in peace...unless you tell me what I want to know."

 

"I don't know anything, so you’re just wasting your time."

 

"Am I? I do not think so."

 

"Then you’re a fool!"

 

Daniel saw sudden anger spark to life in the Goa'uld's eyes in response to that taunt. He felt his hair quickly being released and, as he struggled to pull his head up, he felt a harsh brutal backhand connect with the left side of his face sending a torrent of sudden pain throughout his head and mind. Daniel could only scream as he flew violently to his right until his body was wrenched to a jarring halt by the shackles imprisoning him. The shackles cut even deeper into his wrists then before. He could feel warm blood start to again roll slowly down his arms making a beeline for his shoulders. Osiris had decided that the chains were too loose and had deliberately tightened them excessively. Now not only did Daniel's arms feel numb but so did his hands. Daniel wanted to scream as pain tore throughout his own body, but something prevented him from giving voice to that pain...yet. He clenched his eyes tightly shut against the roar of severe anguish pounding furiously behind his now closed eyelids. The pain seemed to be easing up some but rather slowly. He could tell that his nose was again bleeding and could feel the stinging of both the newest mark across his face combined with the bruised marks from prior backhands. He could also tell that his lower lip had split open as a result of the newest strike. He tried to focus on the present ignoring the ever-increasing waves of hurt flooding his system, but the task was proving to be rather difficult. He finally opened his eyes then focused on Osiris. Daniel's cold hard eyes pierced into that of the Goa'uld's uncaring, outraged face. Osiris then continued, "Doctor Jackson, even now your body grows weaker. Your life is slipping away from you. You should have realized by now that I will not restore you to complete health until you no longer draw any breath. As long as you fight to stay alive you are only succeeding in delaying the inevitable. You will die Doctor Jackson. You will die a thousand times, if not more, and I will revive you. I will restore you to life each time you cease to breathe. Then I will begin to torture you all over again. I will not restore you to health until you cease breathing completely. Doctor Jackson, I greatly enjoy delaying the inevitable and I will enjoy every delicious moment of your deaths. Your life is now in my hands. I, and I alone, have the power to kill you, to destroy you, whenever I so choose and in whatever way I choose. Only I have the power to return you to life, to resurrect you and bring you back from the dead. I have no intentions of letting you die and remain as such. My intentions are to torment you, prolong your suffering until you can take no more. When you pass on I will only bring you back repetitively. There is no death for you, Doctor Jackson only an eternity of resurrection, suffering and anguish. You will be slowly driven insane as you believe that this time I will not bring you back then you will again find yourself arising from the sarcophagus in perfect health, alive again only to be dragged back to your cell to undergo more torture and more suffering. This I promise you Doctor Jackson..."

 

"Aw gee thanks. Didn't know you cared..."

 

WHACK! Daniel groaned as another cruel harsh punishing backhand came across the right side of his face. He felt himself fly viciously against the cold, iron grip of the abusive shackles. He nearly cried out as he could feel precious skin on his wrists being chafed, scraped and gouged raw. He tried to block out the pain now consuming his senses to focus on the present. He felt himself fighting a losing battle as the inky darkness threatened to consume him. He fought it back refusing to cave into the seductive blackness. He would not pass out...not yet.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

The remaining members of SG-1, along with Jacob Carter, put the first stage of their plan into action. Teal'c and his friend Za'tar put on their serpent guard uniforms preparing to set the plan into motion. Jacob knew of a planet in the same system as Ta-hetchet that had a Stargate on it. He had this knowledge due to a previously completed mission. The plan was to ring Teal'c and Za'tar to the surface of the planet where they would access the Stargate and use it to gate to Anubis' planet.

 

Jacob positioned the Tel'tak near the gate on the planet's surface then said, "Teal'c, prepare to be ringed down to the surface. Do you have the address for Ta-hetchet?"

 

"I do Jacob Carter."

 

"Good. Once you are ringed to the surface you must locate the Stargate and input the address I have given you. When you arrive on Ta-hetchet you should exit the Stargate to find yourselves surrounded by jackal guards..."

 

"Jackal guards?" interrupted Jack suddenly.

 

"Yes Jack, jackal guards...the jackal is an animal that is closely associated with Anubis. His guards wear the heads of jackals to signify which god they serve."

 

"Nice..."

 

Jacob looked back at Teal'c continuing, "Our sources say that Doctor Jackson is there and that Anubis has been contacted by Apophis. If this is not true you may, likewise, be captured. If it is true..."

 

"We will inform Anubis that Apophis would like to see his prize to ascertain that Anubis' does indeed have Daniel there."

 

"Correct... Once you locate Doctor Jackson, if you locate him, then radio us. We should be above Ta-hetchet within the next eight hours. We will remain cloaked orbiting the planet. Once we have confirmation that you are there I’ll ring Jack and Sam to the planet's surface. You then will be able to keep in contact via radio. Are you ready?"

 

"Yes we are ready, Jacob Carter."

 

"Clear the rings!"

 

The rings were cleared then Teal'c and Za'tar were ringed to the planet below. When Teal'c radioed his confirmation that they were on the surface of the planet and at the Stargate preparing to input the address that Jacob provided him with then the remaining members of SG-1 and Jacob left the planet continuing on their journey to Ta-hetchet.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Teal'c and his friend Za'tar, made their ways to the Stargate on the planet. Teal'c was rather surprised that they found their way to the Stargate with little difficulty. Once at the Stargate Teal'c began to punch in the address Jacob provided him with. Before hitting the final symbol, which would activate the wormhole, he looked at his friend and together they pressed the buttons on their uniforms, which activated the helmets that covered their faces. Teal'c then entered the last symbol and waited for the Stargate to activate. The wormhole engaged shooting outwards like a funnel then fell back towards itself as the shimmering pool of liquid calmed. Teal'c and Za'tar stepped through the gate and found themselves arriving on Ta-hetchet with guards of Anubis now surrounding them with their staff weapons upraised. One of the guards stepped forward demanding, "What is your reason for arriving on Ta-hetchet?"

 

"We are guards of Apophis. We wish to speak with your lord."

 

"Our lord Anubis is unable to welcome you at this time."

 

"We have been sent here by Apophis to examine the Tau'ri that Anubis now has in his custody."

 

The guard issued several orders in Goa'uld sending another guard to go inform Anubis of his guests' arrival.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Osiris glared coldly at his impudent hostage. Doctor Jackson was proving to be a very challenging prisoner, indeed. Osiris watched as the man recovered from the last brutal backhand he had received courteous of Osiris. Osiris vowed to break the man, to break his spirit, tame him and rule him. He glanced up as his First Prime entered the room just then. He smiled at him then said, "Kelsham, come and join us."

 

"It will be my pleasure, My Lord," Kelsham then grinned menacingly at Doctor Jackson.

 

Daniel groaned mentally as he saw Kelsham enter the room. Today would be yet another long day for him; he was sure of it. Kelsham derived almost as much pleasure, if not more, from making him suffer and tormenting him as Osiris did. Daniel started to mentally prepare himself for what was about to come. Neither Osiris nor Kelsham would show him any mercy as they would torment him, refusing to stop doing so until he slipped into unconsciousness. He was today's entertainment for them...again. He found himself wondering what his tormentors have in store for him today then decided that he'd rather not know. He found himself hoping that they will steer clear of his stomach area. The broken ribs were bad enough and now that his sternum was healed for the most part, thanks to Jotham, he quickly decided he didn’t want to experience that again...at least not in this life.

 

Daniel eyed up his tormentors watching Osiris as he stepped even closer. Then he saw movement out of the corner of his eyes. Kelsham was heading behind him to take his normal place for the interrogation. Daniel didn't like knowing Kelsham was behind him. He couldn't see what the man was up to and didn't like the not knowing one bit. He focused again on Osiris when Osiris spoke, "Daniel Jackson as I have said before you know much of the Goa'uld...much more than any other human that I have encountered, so tell me how do you know of us?"

 

"Told you...lucky guess..."

 

Daniel gritted his teeth as he felt a solid punch being directed towards his lower right kidney by Kelsham. He jerked backwards as the strike connected. He succeeded in only wincing...that time. Osiris glared at Daniel and again questioned, "How do you know of us?"

 

Daniel remained stubbornly silent refusing to provide Osiris with the answer he sought. Osiris responded by stepping even closer to him deliberately invading his personal space to make him feel uncomfortable. Daniel stood his ground still glaring at Osiris and remaining completely silent. Osiris questioned, "Why does Apophis want you? Why has Apophis placed a bounty on your head?"

 

"Oh right Apophis...he's one of those other snakes...like you, correct?"

 

Osiris' eyes snapped and sparked in rage as he spoke, "Doctor Jackson, it would be best for you if you did not defy me. Why has Apophis placed a bounty on your head?"

 

"He's a parasite, right?"

 

Daniel screamed as another fist was driven into his back, this time it was directed into his lower left kidney. He could feel the knife wound again tear open and begin to gush blood as Kelsham's fist connected with the wound. Daniel clenched his eyes tightly shut seething in pain and rage as he could feel his blood rolling down over his waist. He had forgotten about that damned knife wound temporarily, but Kelsham's strike brought the memory of its existence back immediately. Osiris only continued to watch the pathetic human as he continued to remain stubbornly defiant and oppositional. Daniel again opened his eyes and looked at Osiris. Osiris could see Jackson's rage and anger simmering in his eyes. He sneered at Daniel then continued, "Where is my queen? What have you done with her?"

 

"I don't know where she is."

 

"Do not lie to me. You told me that you have the jar...if you have the jar then you have my queen. Now tell me, where is my queen?"

 

"Hopefully she's dead..."

 

Daniel knew he shouldn't have said that and knew he would greatly anger Osiris with that comment, but he just couldn't help himself. He wanted to taunt Osiris, to bait him just a little bit.

 

Kelsham reacted immediately as he drove a brutal fist directly into Daniel's left upper thigh. Daniel screamed as pain exploded across the raw, charred flesh of the staff blast injury. His leg flew out from under him as it erupted in agony refusing to continue to support him. The pain in the staff wound had become a tolerable dull ache but as Kelsham struck the injury again he reignited the severe throbbing and pounding of anguish in it. Daniel couldn't believe how much a simple strike to such an injury could hurt so damned badly. He gritted his teeth trying to keep his groans of pain from ever reaching his lips. He attempted to pull the leg up, but even that simple gesture proved near impossible as his wounded leg just stubbornly refused to support his weight. He remained hanging heavily from his shackled wrists and placing all of his body weight onto his bruised right leg. He was very thankful that at least his right leg was supporting him. As the sharp pain started to ebb a little bit Daniel tried to again place the leg under him. He managed to grip the chain of his left wrist shackle in his hand and attempted to pull himself upright using the chain as an anchor. His wrist was bent in an awkward position to do the task, but he was managing to pull himself upright...which was better than just hanging by his one wrist. He heard Osiris speak, "My queen Daniel Jackson, where is she? Where on Earth are you holding her prisoner?"

 

Daniel raised his head and as his eyes clashed with Osiris' the Goa’uld lord saw the hatred and anger his prisoner felt towards he and Kelsham. Osiris simply sneered at Jackson then deliberately reached out to caress the side of the younger man's face. Daniel reacted by yanking backwards trying to avoid the unwanted physical contact. Osiris simply laughed at him then said, "You hate this don't you, Doctor Jackson? You despise me. You despise my race. I see so much anger and hatred in you. Why do you hate me so much? Why do you despise the Goa'uld so much?"

 

"I told you that already..."

 

"Oh yes...because we enslave you...enslave your race, but there's more isn't there? It is almost as if your hatred of us goes beyond that... You hate us on a more personal level. Why is that Doctor Jackson? Is it Apophis who has made you despise us?"

 

As Osiris mentioned Apophis' name he saw the slightest increase in anger in the young man's eyes. So it was Apophis? Or at least Apophis was part of the reason Doctor Jackson had so little tolerance for the Goa'uld. Osiris found himself suddenly very curious about Doctor Jackson's past history with Apophis. He would have to question Anubis about it later. He didn't bother to before because he wanted Jackson to tell him those answers, but Jackson still refused to speak even now, even knowing he would die then be reborn and made to suffer all over again. He still refused to answer any of Osiris' questions. Osiris would have to ask Anubis about Apophis later... He found that he wanted to know those answers now. Osiris continued, "Tell me what does Apophis want with you?"

 

"Want with me? Why would a snake want me? I don't know who this Apophis is..."

 

Osiris smirked then continued, "You continue to deceive to me. Why do you even bother? I know that you know of Apophis, so why do you still deny that you even have met him?"

 

"Because it's the truth..."

 

"Is it? No, I don't believe so Doctor Jackson... Make no mistakes I will discover why he wants you...alive and I will find out what I want to know."

 

"I don't know anything. Why waste your time?"

 

"Because who could resist the chance to torment you, Doctor Jackson?"

 

Daniel felt his rage increase at that comment then he yelled at himself. Why the hell was he allowing Osiris to get to him so easily? Because of Sarah, no doubt... He was aware that he has been allowing Osiris to goad him, and it was pissing him off...especially when he could see that Osiris was enjoying every minute of it. Daniel silently cursed and vowed to do his best to ignore Osiris' attempts to spur him on. The angrier he got the more careless he became and this was one situation in which Daniel couldn't allow his rage, his anger, to get the best of him. It was just as easy to reveal things when you were angry as when you were in pain. Daniel couldn't afford to let his temper get the best of him. He knew that Osiris was toying with him, taunting him, as if it were a game. Daniel vowed not to play that game.

 

Osiris watched Daniel Jackson. He could tell that the man was getting angrier with him by the minute. Osiris reveled in taunting the man. He was strong but easily goaded, especially when Osiris broached a topic that bothered the young man. The mention of Apophis possibly being responsible for Doctor Jackson's hatred of the Goa'uld must have struck a nerve because it wasn't long after that Doctor Jackson began to react to Osiris' slight jibes. Maybe if he took a different course of action it would loosen the damned human's tongue up a bit. Osiris decided it would be worth a try. He continued, "Doctor Jackson, it is a simple request that I make of you. Tell me why Apophis has placed such a high bounty on your head."

 

"I don't know maybe he had nothing better to do. How the hell should I know?"

 

Osiris noticed the man's anger and rage weren't as heightened now. Had Doctor Jackson realized that he was letting his anger win out and decide to keep a grip on his temper? If so Osiris would have to work on angering him again. Damn the man caught on too quick! Doctor Jackson was too damned smart for his own damned good! Osiris reached towards Jackson's face watching as the man pulled back from him. He couldn't help it as a cold smile spread across his face at the man's reaction. Jackson automatically spoke in a clipped voice, "Don't fuckin' touch me."

 

Osiris could see the extreme discomfort in the man and the anger at himself for speaking his thought aloud...so Doctor Jackson knew that in verbalizing his last comment he handed over a possible disadvantage and at the same time revealed that when Osiris attempted to touch him as his host had in the past it bothered him greatly? Jackson's strongest weakness was Osiris' host. Even the first time they had met Osiris had seen Doctor Jackson's indecision. He wanted to kill Osiris but couldn't do so because of his concern for the host. Doctor Jackson's concern for Osiris' host was a big weakness that Osiris liked playing on. He continued, "Doctor Jackson, what do you know of the Tok'ra?"

 

"Uh, I believe we've already covered this...and I believe that I gave you my answer."

 

"What do you know of the Resistance?"

 

"What Resistance?"

 

Now Osiris was getting angry. This human was so aggravating! Osiris questioned again, "Tell me what you know about the Tok'ra."

 

"Who is Tok'ra? What is Tok'ra? What are you talking about?"

 

Kelsham drove a brutal kick into Daniel's staff weapon wound just then. Daniel screamed as his leg retaliated against the strike by giving out on him and beginning to bleed even worse. He had temporarily forgotten that Kelsham was even there. He heard Kelsham laughing then yelled, "You fuckin' bastard!"

 

Daniel then lapsed into a fit of violent coughing feeling pain ricochet through his ribs and ignite severe agony in his rib cage. He realized that he was breathing heavier, which was causing his lungs to expand more and push against his badly damaged rib cage. He tried desperately to calm his breathing but found it nearly impossible to do so. His body seemed to be flooded in pain not just from coughing, but from his other injuries as well. The pain traveled in waves up over his leg and his whole body exploded in pain as he violently flew downwards only to be jerked to a cruel stop by the shackles once more. He felt a wave of lightheadedness sweep over him and left his head drop. He closed his eyes struggling to calm his breathing and stop his extreme wheezing. He could tell that his left leg no longer supported his weight and could feel the wound bleeding badly this time. He could feel blood rolling down over his leg and feel it soaking into his camouflage pants. His leg hurt almost as bad as it did when he was originally given the wound. But, on a positive note, he noticed that as he focused on the nasty flesh wound on his upper left leg the injury hurt more severely but his struggled breathing had eased up some. He had fallen silent, still gasping, but his breathing wasn't as fast. His rib cage felt as if it had been crushed on the left side, but he knew that was due to the accumulation of bruised skin, fractured ribs and broken ribs he now had. He could still hear himself wheezing and hated it but couldn't stop himself even if he wanted to. Broken ribs constricted breathing no matter what you did. He opened his eyes temporarily and felt half ill as the floor shifted beneath his feet and the pain in his head made a sudden crescendo. He clenched his eyes shut trying to block out the crazy shifting of the floor beneath him. He became aware of the pain in his wrists and could feel the tight grip the metal shackles had on them. His arms still felt mostly numb but began tensing up. Daniel hoped the violent spasms his arms have been occasionally slipping into due to being held in the same position for so long wouldn't seize him...not yet, please not yet, or he would scream and pass out for sure. He felt his right arm begin to twitch and winced as the new source of discomfort started to come to life. He nearly sighed in relief when that discomfort seemed to slack off and abate...good...it was bad enough that his ribs throbbed and his leg burned and stung he didn't need his arms spasming on him as well. As he started to get control of his breathing, and the agony in his body seemed to decrease a bit, he could hear Osiris' grating voice, "Tell me what you know of the Tok'ra! Where is their base?"

 

Daniel silently fumed. When the hell would Osiris realize he wasn't about to even admit he knew what the hell a Tok'ra was? Osiris could do what he wanted to him, but there was no way in hell he would speak! He'd be damned if he would make himself responsible for the execution of an entire race and civilization. He couldn't live with himself, with the guilt and torment, that knowing he was a destroyer of an entire civilization would wrought on him. And he knew that if the location of the Tok'ra Resistance was given to Osiris then Osiris would wipe them out, annihilate them and eradicate them. He would die a thousand times, hell a million times, before he would dare speak of what he knew. The risks were just too high and Daniel wasn't willing to take such a huge gamble...no matter what Osiris did to him. His anger and irritation must've shown on his face as Daniel looked up at Osiris because he saw Osiris watching him intently his jaw tensed in rage at the young scientists' stubbornness and continued defiance, which contributed to the rage present in his next question, "Tell me where is the Resistance, Doctor Jackson?"

 

"You know you should really consider taking some anger management classes they...uh!"

 

Daniel cried out as Kelsham drove another painful, forceful blow to his left kidney. Daniel felt himself arch backwards in response. Osiris then nodded. Kelsham quickly responded by grabbing Daniel's hair in a painful grip and wrenching his head brutally backwards erupting another scream of pain from Daniel's throat. Daniel winced feeling dizziness sweep across him. He felt himself waver but managed to stay alert. Kelsham showed no mercy as he painfully twisted his fist in Daniel's hair. Osiris then reached out again placing his hand against Daniel's right cheek, gently stroking it he continued, "You are very stubborn and refuse to learn. I have very little patience for you, Doctor Jackson. Now tell me..."

 

"NO!"

 

"Tell me what I want to know, Doctor Jackson!"

 

"Nothing! I know nothing!"

 

"Tell me what I want to know!" demanded Osiris. He looked sinisterly into Doctor Jackson's eyes then grinned evilly as he continued to stroke Daniel's left cheek gently. He could see Daniel fighting those memories of his life with Sarah yet again and greatly enjoyed watching that torment and turmoil within his very difficult prisoner. He glared coldly at Daniel then softly said, "Why must you make things so difficult, Doctor Jackson? Why must you cause me to harm you to get my answers? I promise you that if you tell me what I want to know I will let you go...I will heal you..."

 

"I don't think so!"

 

"Oh but I would. All you have to do is tell me what I want...such a simple request, so why do you insist on being so oppositional? Tell me what I want to know and give Sarah some solace."

 

Daniel glared icily at Osiris when he mentioned Sarah's name. He was then distracted as Osiris continued to stroke his cheek then reached up and stroked his hair off of his forehead. Daniel tried to violently wrench himself away from the Goa'uld but with Kelsham gripping his hair so firmly he had very little success. He hated this...this mental torture that Osiris was exposing him to. He knew what Osiris was doing. Osiris was playing mind games with his head. He was trying to torture Daniel psychologically as well as physically and it was really pissing him off. He closed his eyes trying to block out Sarah's face knowing that by looking into her beautiful eyes that he was falling prey to those past memories of their life together. He couldn't let that happen. He started breathing heavily and swallowing hard as Osiris refused to cease tormenting him. Daniel was ready to murder the bastard! He started to raise his right leg in preparation for a kick, but Kelsham sensed or saw the movement and with his free hand he again punched Daniel viciously in his upper left leg. Daniel again screamed out as the pain in his leg increased. He also became aware that Kelsham was yanking harsher on his hair. He wanted to scream to beg Kelsham to please let go of his hair and leave him be, but he refused to cave in. He would never lower himself to that level. Never...he'd die before he begged a Goa'uld for anything!

 

Osiris glared at Kelsham who said, "He was about to kick you again, My Lord..."

 

Osiris became outraged when he heard that. The good doctor was going to kick him again? How dare he! Osiris waited until Daniel's scream of pain ended then demanded again, "Tell me what I want to know!"

 

"I don't know! I don't know!"

 

"Tell me!"

 

"I DON’T KNOW!"

 

As Daniel continued to raise his voice in denial Osiris' voice escalated in outrage. He was fast losing patience with this particular human. Kelsham responded by gripping Daniel's hair harsher, refusing to loosen his grip. Osiris was now glowering at Daniel in resentment and indignation; Daniel didn't care. He didn't even really notice. He was now trying to focus on Osiris' questions while attempting to block out the new source of extreme pounding in his head. The grip Kelsham held on his hair was firm and extremely brutal. Daniel was fighting the black spots that seemed to now be constantly jumping up before his eyes. The painful grip in his hair only escalated his severe migraine and successfully managed to draw all of his attention directly to the aching, banging in his own mind. He felt himself falter a bit as again the peaceful inkiness attempted to grab a hold of him and snatch him under into a world of darkness and calm. He faintly heard Osiris demand again and felt the grip in his hair intensify further.  Daniel was so dizzy and in so much anguish that without thought he drove his right foot behind him wanting Kelsham to free his cruel grip, his iron hold on his hair. He didn't care that he had just suffered for daring to kick out at Osiris. He could barely focus. All he wanted was the grip in his hair to release so he again drove a kick towards his tormentor...this time he aimed for Kelsham and managed to hit his mark. He screamed as Kelsham reacted to the strike nearly wrenching his head too far back. Kelsham released his grip and Daniel felt his head fall rapidly backwards. He struggled to pull his head forward as holding his head back only succeeded in making the blackness grip him temporarily in its grasp and sent pulsating pain throughout his mind once again. He managed to pull his head forward just as Kelsham drove a vicious kick directly at the back of his upper right leg. Daniel screamed again.

 

Kelsham was so angry with Jackson, wanting to make him suffer that he then raised his staff weapon, he had propped up against the wall, and fired directing the blast to Daniel's upper right shoulder. A scream of severe anguish pierced the air as it wrenched forth from Daniel's lungs in response to the newest injury to his body.

 

Daniel felt the impact of the staff blast drive him forward as it tore into his arm, ripping and tearing at his flesh mercilessly. He could feel searing, singeing pain erupt across his upper right shoulder. He felt the pain only a moment longer before he then slipped into deep unconsciousness yet again hanging, literally, from his chained wrists.

 

Kelsham approached the human examining the new injury. It was a flesh wound. The injury would throb and burn like hell, but would cause little other damage to the human. Kelsham smirked evilly as he took notice to that. Osiris, himself, examined the injury and ascertained it was in fact a flesh wound. Doctor Jackson would merely feel severe pain from the injury. He wouldn't die from it, not yet anyway. Osiris then said, "Have Jotham check on Doctor Jackson occasionally and report to me if he should cease breathing. Doctor Jackson's first death is approaching...let's leave him to it, shall we?"

 

He smirked at Kelsham who returned it. They both knew Doctor Jackson would probably live at least long enough for another interrogation, but he was growing weaker by the day. Osiris refused to use the healing powers of the sarcophagus on the man until he died his first death.

 

They both exited Daniel's cell, leaving him to his suffering and torment. Kelsham then hunted for Jotham to inform him to keep watch over the human.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Teal'c and Za'tar were escorted to Anubis' main stronghold where they were taken into the throne room. Anubis turned as Tyran, his First Prime, approached him. He spoke, "My Lord Anubis?"

 

Anubis turned smiling at his First Prime acknowledging the younger man's presence, "Tyran, what brings you before me?"

 

"Guests, My Lord. They are the serpent guards of Apophis."

 

Anubis turned to the two serpent guards standing before him. He questioned, "Why have you come to Ta-hetchet?"

 

"By direct order of our lord Apophis."

 

"Why has Apophis dispatched two of his guards to my planet?"

 

"Our lord wishes to affirm that the Tau'ri you have informed him of is, in fact, on this world."

 

Anubis' eyes glowed bright white in response to that comment. How dare Apophis question him! He questioned, "Does your lord not trust my word on this matter?"

 

"He does, My Lord."

 

"Then why has he sent you to me?"

 

"Apophis only wishes to make certain the Tau'ri you have in custody still remains. This particular Tau'ri has evaded capture on several different occasions. He is only protecting what will soon rightfully belong to him."

 

"Why did he direct you through the Stargate? He has ships..."

 

"He did not want to endanger your alliance by bringing his army with him."

 

"So Apophis only wants to be assured that we are keeping his...prize safely guarded and protected?"

 

"He does."

 

"I see... Tyran, please make our guests feel comfortable. I have some important business to attend to. Guards of Apophis you may rejoin me when I am done."

 

"We understand."

 

Teal'c and Za'tar followed Tyran out of the room and were taken to the guest quarters. Once Tyran left they searched for a place to transmit and to talk without being overheard. Za'tar questioned, "Teal'c, do you believe that Doctor Jackson may be on this planet?"

 

"I do."

 

“But we have seen nothing to indicate his presence here. Why are you so certain that your friend is here?”

 

"If Daniel Jackson were not here Anubis would not be entertaining us now. He would not have requested we be given guest quarters. He would have sent us back to Apophis, most likely dead, to send a point to him. Daniel Jackson is here. I am sure of it."

 

"But where?"

 

"We must find him."

 

"So we should search..."

 

"No. It is too dangerous to search just yet. We must wait. Anubis will most likely bring him before us."

 

"Why would he do such a thing?"

 

"To show that he has captured Daniel Jackson when no one else was able to. To show us that he has succeeded where Apophis has failed. He knows that if he cannot produce Doctor Jackson then Apophis will retaliate..."

 

"But Apophis will not. He does not even know we are here."

 

"And therein lies the deception, my friend."

 

                                                                                  * * * *

Anubis walked into his dungeons to see if Osiris was still there taunting the prisoner. He glanced in Doctor Jackson's cell and only saw the human, hanging over, bent sharply at the waist, the shackles being the only thing that held the man upright. Then he questioned his guards of Osiris' location. Once told where to find Osiris Anubis again glanced at the young man who was his prisoner then he went in search of Osiris.

 

Anubis found Osiris and watched as he pulled a robe over his body. Osiris then turned to face Anubis questioning, "Anubis, what brings you to me?"

 

"We have visitors."

 

"Visitors? Who are they?"

 

"Serpent guards of Apophis."

 

"Guards of Apophis? Why are they here?" questioned Osiris seething internally, he continued, "The deal was that he would not get Doctor Jackson until I am done with him myself. He is my prisoner. I will not turn him over until I have no further use for him."

 

"His guards say that Apophis merely wants them to confirm that we have Doctor Jackson. It seems this particular Tau'ri has a history of continually evading capture. Apophis just wants to assure himself that there is something of value to him here on Ta-hetchet."

 

"I see...and does he also know of me?"

 

"No. I have told him nothing of you. Apophis does not even know you have arisen again."

 

"Good. Let us keep it that way...shall we?"

 

"We shall."

 

"I do not like his guards being here, and I do not like their appearing here and requesting to see Doctor Jackson."

 

"I do not either, but if we refuse Apophis will take it as an insult and an act of hostility.  He will break the alliance if such is the case. We need his alliance, his trust, to overthrow him. Us showing him his quarry will be considered an act of good faith on our part and thus allow us to overturn him much more easily."

 

"Let us make his guards wait a bit, shall we?"

 

Anubis smirked evilly agreeing with Osiris' suggestion.

 

                                                                                  * * * *

Jacob Carter flew the Tel'tak to Ta-hetchet. As he started to orbit the planet he looked over his shoulder yelling, "Jack, Sam! We're here!"

 

"Finally!" came Jack's sudden reply as he headed to the helm. He approached Jacob and looked at the monitor. The planet was clearly visible on the viewer. It looked similar to Earth, except that the green and blue contrasted more sharply. Jacob said, as he saw Jack looking at the planet, "It is a forest planet. The majority of the surface is covered by dense woods..."

 

"Great more trees..." came Jack's unpleasant retort.

 

"A lot more trees..." came Sam's reply.

 

Jacob continued, "Most of the forest from what we have been told is similar to jungle foliage and rainforests. The rest of the planet is covered by water. Our infiltrator was able to tell us that Anubis has several huge complexes in various areas of the woods. His main complex is that of Sekhem..."

 

"So it would be safe to say that if Daniel's down there he would most likely be in that particular complex?"

 

"Most likely yes and under heavy guard."

 

"So all we have to do is find this Seek man place?" questioned Jack.

 

"Sekhem, sir. It's pronounced Sek-hem..."

 

"Thank you for the small tutorial, Major. You’re beginning to get as bad as Daniel..."

 

"Sir?"

 

"He's constantly correcting my pronunciations of things... As you might have noticed I'm not the linguist of the group..."

 

"Yes sir..."

 

Jack felt a pang of fear and worry strike him as he spoke of the absent archaeologist. They would find Daniel and they would get him back. Jack would never give up...never! As he looked into Sam's eyes he noticed that same stubborn determination in her, as well. They would find him and they would bring him home!

 

Jacob continued, "Sekhem is Anubis' main complex. He will have the place under very heavy guard, especially if Daniel and Osiris are both there."

 

"So tell me again...why would one Goa'uld protect another? I just don't get that," questioned Jack.

 

"Sir, if you had been listening when Nyan answered that question..."

 

"Carter, are you implying that I don't listen?"

 

"Uh, no sir it's just that..."

 

"Please continue."

 

"Yes sir... Nyan pointed out that Anubis has protected Osiris several times throughout the Egyptian myths. He helped to reform Osiris' body under the instruction of Thoth after his brother, Seth, chopped it up. He also aided in Osiris' mummification and resurrection. Together Osiris and Anubis rule the underworld with Anubis weighing the hearts of the dead against a feather while Osiris waits for the final judgment to be made on a person's soul..."

 

"Nyan didn't say that..."

 

"Uh, yes sir he did."

 

"Oh...you're right Major, perhaps I should listen more often when Nyan speaks. He's as bad as Daniel. He goes on and on and on..."

 

"Sir..."

 

"I should stop complaining, right?"

 

Sam nodded her head saying, "Yes sir."

 

"Sorry...it's just that when it comes to scientists..."

 

"You have problems dealing with someone way smarter then you?" Sam commented with a smirk on her face. Jack glared at her then returned her smirk shrugging he said, "I just have a little problem with scientists Major..."

 

"Except Daniel and I, sir."

 

"Yes, except Daniel and...Carter! Let's just go."

 

"Uh, yes sir."

 

Jacob spoke up, "You both must be very careful. Once you are ringed to the planet's surface the Tel'tak will no longer be cloaked. Anubis will know a ship is above the planet. This ship is small enough that it shouldn't seem threatening to him, but he may send guards to see what they can find out, especially when he realizes the rings may have been used, so you must find cover quickly. Teal'c and Za'tar are already inside one of those complexes. You should be able to stay in contact via radio once you are on the surface of the planet."

 

"All right..."

 

"Teal'c has already radioed to let me know he is at Sekhem. He believes that Daniel may be there and will radio again if he gets proof. Are the two of you ready?"

 

"Yes dad."

 

"Remember what I said find cover immediately after you're ringed to the surface."

 

"We will."

 

Jacob nodded his head then activated the transport rings. Jack and Sam were instantly transported to the surface of Ta-hetchet.

 

                                                                                 * * * *

Once on the planet's surface Jack and Sam sought cover immediately. As Jacob had suspected several guards appeared searching the area shortly afterwards. Anubis knew that they were here. They would have to be very cautious now and not get captured.

 

Sam and Jack waited patiently for the guards to get done investigating. They remained still as death each with a weapon drawn in case it should soon become necessary for them to defend themselves. Jack was extremely glad that they were under the cover of the night. Darkness concealed them a lot better then daylight would have. Jack found himself silently muttering, "Daniel, please be here...somewhere..."

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Anubis was immediately informed when a small Tel'tak ship arrived circling above the planet. He had a feeling that a ship would soon appear. He was sure it was a ship sent to retrieve the Tau'ri he now holds prisoner at his complex. He decided to go inform Osiris of the newest development.

 

                                                                                    * * * *

Anubis found Osiris in the main hall approaching him he said, "Osiris, we must speak in private."

 

"What is the problem, Anubis?"

 

"Come."

 

They both headed to one of Anubis' private chambers where they could speak without being overheard. Osiris looked at Anubis wondering what was going on. Osiris prompted, "Tell me what is going on."

 

"A new...problem has arrived that I wanted to inform you of."

 

"A new problem? What now?"

 

"A ship was spotted above the planet. It is a small Tel'tak ship..."

 

"Could that be Apophis?"

 

"No. No. He would travel in a mother ship."

 

"Then who is this intruder?"

 

"I believe that it is a Tok'ra spy ship."

 

"A Tok'ra spy ship? In the Palleon Galaxy? Why would they even bother to come here? What is of value to them here?"

 

"Doctor Jackson."

 

"WHAT?"

 

"They...the Tok'ra and the Tau'ri have formed an alliance..."

 

"And you have failed to inform me of this?"

 

"I thought you had known..."

 

"Anubis, my dear friend, I have been in a deep sleep for the last thousand years...I did not know of this new information. Why would they want Doctor Jackson? He does not even know of them...or so he claims."

 

"Then he has been lying to you, Osiris."

 

"I had figured as much. How does he know of them?"

 

"He was among the Tau'ri who helped the Tok'ra relocate their base recently. Apophis had a spy in the ranks of the Tok'ra who was feeding him inside information. He then planned an attack on the Tok'ra home base. The Tau'ri used Heru-ur's mother ship to transport the Tok'ra to a new planet. When the Tau'ri conquered Heru-ur they claimed his ship and arrived at the Tok'ra base to aid in their evacuation."

 

"So we should soon expect friends of Doctor Jackson's to arrive at Sekhem?"

 

"I believe so. The ship was cloaked until the transport rings were activated. Something, or rather someone, was most likely transported to the surface of this planet. I sent my guards to go investigate. They have found nothing but that does not mean anything."

 

"You are right. I shall have Kelsham help me to prepare a surprise for these trespassers... If they want Doctor Jackson they may try to retrieve him, but they will only be walking into a trap. I will not give up Doctor Jackson. He is too valuable to me."

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Daniel started to awake. The first thing he noticed was the extreme darkness and how cold he felt. Where the hell was he? As he slowly awoke more he became aware of the extreme throbbing in his right shoulder and left leg. He moved his right arm in an attempt to stop the throbbing then ended up half screaming as the simple movement jolted his stiff numb arm. He remembered where he was. He was still imprisoned in a cell at Osiris' mercy. He came further awake and tried to stand only succeeding in jolting his arms. He whimpered as his arms cramped severely starting to twitch in response to the slight movement. He bit his lower lip as the first twitching of muscle spasms wracked his numb arms. He inhaled deeply and swallowed hard knowing, preparing himself for the violent spasms that would soon grip him in their clutches as a result of his arms and muscles being strained badly and being held up in an extremely painful position for over seven days. He was extremely glad the spasms didn't attack when Osiris was tormenting him earlier. He also found that he didn't want to experience them now either. But he really didn't have a choice as his muscles refused to cooperate. The spasms of his muscles only increased painfully, wracking his arms and signifying their outrage for being made to remain in the same position for over a week. He tried not to scream, vowed not to scream, then began groaning as the spasms only increased. He hoped the cramps would end shortly. He groaned louder as sharp cramps dug and clawed at his arms. He faintly heard the door of his cell open then felt another painful cramp in his arms, which made him half scream. Just as quickly as the cramps attacked his arms they abated. Daniel was left breathing heavily and silently sending thanks that the pain had ceased. His face was covered in sweat beads again and his breathing was rapid. He could feel pain stabbing his lungs and chest every time he inhaled. His ribs were still badly damaged, the simple task of breathing made him feel as if the ribs were being broken by his inhaling and exhaling. He hurt so badly. He wished the pain would soon end.

 

Daniel screamed as he felt a hand on his now wounded shoulder. God, he had forgotten about that second blast wound! The wound was still extremely tender and raw. He faintly heard a voice saying, "I am sorry, Daniel...I am sorry. Are you all right? Daniel?"

 

He muttered, "Yes Jotham...fine..."

 

"I am sorry. I shouldn't have touched your shoulder..."

 

"No, you shouldn't...have..."

 

"I just... Why did...?"

 

"Pissed Osiris...Kelsham off...I got revenge..."

 

Daniel chuckled weakly but his chuckle quickly turned into violent coughing. Jotham began to rub up and down across Daniel's back trying to help ease the pain the violent coughing was inducing. Daniel could feel every cough right down to his very soul. Each cough sent crippling pain to his rib cage making it feel as if the coughs alone were breaking his ribs. He swallowed hard clenching his eyes shut. The coughs ceased and Daniel could only groan as the pain still remained with him.

 

Jotham was very worried about Daniel. He was continuing to get worse. Jotham knew that if he didn't use the sarcophagus Daniel would die shortly, but he still refused to use it. He spoke up, "You must eat and drink more, my friend."

 

"Insistent...aren't you?"

 

"Yes Daniel. I am very insistent. You must eat and you must drink."

 

"So you're going...to shove...more food...water at me...?"

 

"Yes...what are friends for?"

 

Daniel started laughing and felt pain seize him. He muttered, "Oh God Jotham...don't make me laugh... Please don't...make laugh...hurts..."

 

"I am sorry, Daniel."

 

"No prob...lem... Thank you..."

 

"You are most welcome. Now you must eat."

 

Daniel managed to look up at Jotham and smiled in response. He said, "Yes...I'll try..."

 

"Very good."

 

Jotham brought the bread over to him and tore off a small piece then he asked, "Ready?"

 

"Yes."

 

Jotham placed the bread in Daniel's mouth, and Daniel chewed it. Instantly shooting cramps rumbled through his stomach making him feel extremely nauseous. He almost spit the bread out but remembered just how desperately he needed it, so he choked it down moaning when he felt ill. He felt Jotham's hand at his back again rubbing to help him relax and keep the small morsel of food down. The illness started abating and Daniel said, "'Kay...ready..."

 

Jotham placed another small piece of food in Daniel's mouth. Daniel again felt ill but managed to swallow it. How long would he struggle before he managed to eat normally again? It felt as if he'd never be able to eat normal food again. Jotham was offering him some more food. Daniel shook his head no saying, "No...can't...sorry..."

 

"Okay...what about some soup?"

 

"Soup?"

 

"Yes, I have some. Do you want to try?"

 

"Yeah...have to do something..."

 

"All right then."

 

He picked up the cup of soup he brought then said, "It's just the broth but even the broth will be nutritious. Here..."

 

Jotham held the cup up to Daniel's lips and slowly tilted it. Daniel drank some of the broth and was surprised when his throat didn't attempt to expel it...probably because it was warm and warm liquids always seemed to go down faster than cold. He managed to drink half of that, but could take no more. Jotham offered him water. Daniel didn't think that he could drink it but as the cool liquid flowed into his mouth he found himself choking some of it down. Jotham was very happy to see Daniel trying to accept the water and food and managing to keep it down. Good, Daniel needed all the food and water he could get. Jotham questioned, "More?"

 

"No, no. Thank you..."

 

"You are welcome. How do you feel, Doctor Jackson?"

 

"Daniel...told you to call me...Daniel..."

 

"Daniel..."

 

"Pain..."

 

"How else?"

 

"Tired...so tired..."

 

Jotham eyed Daniel up as his eyelids drooped shut. Jotham said, "Yes, I can see you are in need of rest. Go to sleep Daniel. Rest will help you to heal. Go to sleep."

 

"But..."

 

"Shh, rest now my friend. You must rest to conserve your strength and heal."

 

Daniel could tell his eyelids were closed and he could still hear Jotham. He wanted to awake and attempted to force his eyes open, but they stubbornly remained closed. He felt the fogginess of deep sleep start to wrap around him like a cocoon, lolling him gently, beckoning him to fall prey to the peaceful slumber. He heard Jotham say he would be back tomorrow and then he slipped into a deep much needed rest.

 

Jotham stayed with Daniel awhile longer then picked up his things and left. He was still very scared for Daniel. Would his friends ever find him or would Jotham have to get him out? Jotham couldn't wait much longer. He had to get Daniel away from here and soon but just how could he get Daniel to safety without being captured? Jotham didn't know how to do that just yet, so he put a hold on his escape plan...temporarily.

 

                                                                                   * * * * 

In the jungle of Ta-hetchet, Sam and Jack were still patiently waiting for their chance to move on. Sam no longer could hear the sounds of guards so she whispered, "Colonel, I believe they're gone."

 

Jack slowly arose to survey the area around the teleport rings. He didn't see the guards any longer either. Then he said, "We'll wait a few more minutes to make sure."

 

"Okay... Colonel?"

 

"Yes Major?"

 

"Do you...do you think Daniel is here, sir?"

 

"Yes I do."

 

"But are you sure?"

 

"No but I...I swear I feel his presence..."

 

"Are you sure you're feeling his presence or is your mind just compensating for his loss and your hope?"

 

Jack glanced at Sam briefly then again surveyed the area without responding. After waiting a while longer he was sure they were in the clear so he signaled to Sam. They both arose quietly making their way through the woods. Jack questioned, "How do you say that again?"

 

"What?"

 

"Seek...man...whatever..."

 

"Sekhem."

 

"Sek ham?  Okay...we're off to Sekhem then."

 

They walked in silence seeing only jungle stretched out around them on all sides. There had to be a building some where around here. Where had those guards come from? Surely they weren't patrolling the forest. Jack started feeling more and more uneasy the further they traveled. He spoke up, "Carter..."

 

"Yes sir?"

 

"Are you sure that we're...heading in the right direction?"

 

"Yes sir."

 

"Then why the hell haven't we located the compound yet? It'll be morning soon..."

 

"It has to be this way."

 

"Why because Jacob said so?"

 

"Yes. Sir, we’re heading in the right direction."

 

"If you say so Major…"

 

"I do."

 

"Okay then. Let's keep moving. Hopefully we'll get to this compound sometime before day break."

 

The two continued on in silence. Jack still felt uneasy. Were they heading the right direction or not? It was so easy to get lost in woods, especially very dense forest like what they were now tracking through. In a jungle, or rather rainforest...the place seemed more like an Amazon rainforest than a jungle...but when it all boiled down to it a jungle and a rainforest were pretty much the same thing, right? Jack shook his head as that thought entered his mind. Then he focused on his surroundings once again. When terrain looked so similar on all four sides of them it was hard to tell which direction was backwards and which forwards. The terrain all looked the same. How on earth were they going to get Daniel to the teleport rings in this stuff? Well, that is if he truly was on the planet, which Jack highly suspected he was. He just had this strange feeling like Daniel was so close to them and yet so far. Jack was sure Daniel was on the planet...some where. He just had to be!

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Teal'c was up with the rising sun. He just finished his Kel-no-reem and was preparing to question Anubis further regarding his friend. Teal'c felt sure that Daniel Jackson was here, most likely in the dungeons of this particular complex. He had to be here. Why else would Anubis set them up in guest rooms instead of sending them directly back to Apophis? Teal'c was sure Daniel was here...somewhere and Anubis was deliberately stalling to keep them in suspense. He decided that today he would again demand Daniel be brought before him. He couldn't wait much longer for his confirmation. Daniel Jackson probably didn't have much time left...

 

                                                                                    * * * *

Anubis approached Osiris saying, "We must prepare Doctor Jackson for his presentation. Apophis' guards will only remain patient for so long."

 

"They will not take my prisoner from me until I am ready to give him up...that will not be for a very long time. I have been extremely patient waiting for the time when Jackson would be with me again. I will not give him up. Not to Apophis, not to anyone."

 

"You are not being asked to give him up, only to prove that he is here. Once they see Doctor Jackson here then they will leave us and we will go from there."

 

"And if they demand Doctor Jackson be turned over to them?"

 

"They will not leave Ta-hetchet alive, and I will have to find another way to overthrow Apophis."

 

"Very well. I trust that you will enforce your threat should it become necessary."

 

"I will."

 

Osiris nodded. He looked up as Jotham entered the room then asked, "Jotham?"

 

"Yes My Lord?"

 

"You will go to Doctor Jackson's cell and wash up his face. He is to be shown to Apophis' guards."

 

"Apophis' guards? My Lord?"

 

"He will not be leaving with the guards."

 

"Then why are we cleaning him up?"

 

"They demand they be allowed to see him for themselves. Apophis wants to make certain that we do in fact have him here. Clean him up. Kelsham will be in later to take him down and secure his wrists again. Jackson will be placed in a cell in the throne room temporarily. Is that understood, Jotham?"

 

"Yes My Lord."

 

"You may go tend to the human now."

 

"Yes My Lord."

 

Jotham got what he needed then headed to Doctor Jackson's cell. Apophis' guards were here and wanted to see Daniel? Jotham didn't like the sound of that...at all. Why would Apophis go through all of that trouble just to make sure Daniel was here? It made no sense. Jotham tried not to think about it and just headed to Daniel's cell with all the things that he would need.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Jotham arrived at Daniel's prison cell and entered approaching the young man. He noticed that Daniel was still hanging by his wrists bent severely at the waist. Jotham knew that position was one of the worst positions Daniel could possibly be in with his broken and bruised ribs. He hated seeing Doctor Jackson being treated so cruelly. He became more and more worried the longer he watched the man. Daniel was still, almost too still... Jotham quickly checked his pulse and sighed in relief when he felt it thrumming under his fingertips. Good, his pulse was still there just beating slower, probably due to him resting. He looked at Daniel's face seeing it was extremely flushed. He suddenly remembered the fever that had started a few days before. He gently pressed his hand to Daniel's forehead. Daniel was warm, warmer then before but the fever was still relatively low grade. As he turned to dig out a cloth to begin cleaning the young man's face he heard a groan followed by a half scream...Daniel Jackson had just awaken.

 

Daniel faintly felt a hand at his neck then move to his face. Where was he? He was always confused upon first awaking. He had to clear his mind and as he did so the pain struck out at him. He groaned as he felt extreme pain in his torqued shoulders and abused body. He had to wake up. He attempted to place his legs under him but as his legs failed to support his weight he half screamed. He then lapsed into violent coughing and wanted the coughs to cease. The coughing hurt too damned much, but he couldn't make himself stop. He could feel his whole body shaking in response to those coughs. He nearly blacked out again as white hot lightening pain slithered upwards starting from the bottom of his rib cage and traveling up. His ribs felt as if they were broken multiple times and they were stabbing at him as if they were trying to squeeze his last breath out of him. He had to stand up. He just had to. He forced his legs to comply and managed to place them, albeit shakily, under himself. He could feel the pain in his ribs immediately lessen a bit upon shifting his position. His whole body was wracked in anguish... He wasn't dead yet; his first death had yet to find him. Despite all of the severe pain his body was presently in he found himself smirking at that thought. Osiris expected him to have died already, but he hadn't which pissed the Goa'uld off. At least Daniel managed to anger the Goa'uld by proving to be more resilient then Osiris had expected him to be.

 

Daniel felt a hand against his cheek and jerked away unsure of who it was. Immediately his body cruely punished him for jerking by igniting extreme anguish within him. He found himself cursing in several different languages. A voice cut through to him and penetrated the fog that the pain had thrown him into. He recognized that voice...who was it? He muttered without even realizing saying, "Jotham..."

 

He heard the gentle voice come to him through the fog of anguish in his mind, "Yes Doctor Jackson?" It was Jotham. Daniel opened his eyes and looked at the man before him. Jotham waited for Daniel to speak again but when he didn't he asked, "What were you saying?" as he started to wash the blood off of Daniel's face.

 

"What?"

 

"Before you spoke my name you muttered some things. They sounded odd to my ears."

 

Daniel smirked then replied, "Oh...I was just cursing..."

 

"But you did not speak in English."

 

"No, no...I didn't."

 

"So what language were you speaking?"

 

"Several actually."

 

"Several? How many languages do you know?"

 

"Fluently? Was twenty-three...now probably more like thirty...all the places I've been to...in the last few years. There are several I'm not...completely fluent in, but I can say some things..."

 

Daniel lapsed into a coughing fit again. Jotham stilled his hand waiting for Daniel to stop coughing. Once Daniel did he went back to gently cleaning the blood off of Daniel's chin. Daniel suddenly realized what Jotham was doing then said, "Jotham, stop..."

 

"Stop what?"

 

"If you clean my face...he’ll know someone is helping me."

 

"Do not worry, Daniel."

 

"Well, I am worried so please stop."

 

"Daniel, Osiris ordered me to clean your face. I am only doing what I have been told to do."

 

"He...told you to...why?"

 

"We have visitors."

 

"We...we do?"

 

"Yes...guards of Apophis."

 

"Let me guess...they want to assure themselves I'm still here..."

 

"That is correct, Daniel."

 

"Damn..."

 

Jotham looked up then said, "Now that I understood." Daniel couldn't help it as he laughed. His laugh lapsed into another tirade of coughs. When he managed to get his voice as the coughs subsided he said, "Thought told you...don't make me laugh."

 

"I am sorry Daniel, I..."

 

"Don't worry."

 

"May I?" Jotham raised the washcloth in his hands. Daniel swallowed hard then spoke, "Yeah...go ahead..."

 

Jotham resumed washing the dried blood off of Daniel's chin. Daniel was glad for that. His face hasn't been cleaned since the first day here, and he had dried blood in several areas across his face. He winced as Jotham bumped his split open lip. Jotham apologized immediately for causing the pain then continued washing Daniel's face off. He then started working on cleaning the blood off of Daniel's nose and cheek. Daniel winced again as slight pressure was added to his right cheek. He had been backhanded there several times throughout the week.

 

Jotham felt himself wincing as he eyed up that cheek himself. Some of the flesh was marred with a mix of discolored yellow and green fading bruises, as well as black ones. Bruises lay across both of Daniel's cheekbones. His face looked as if someone had decided to use it for a punching bag. Once done cleaning all of the blood off of Daniel's face Jotham stepped back then said, "Your face looks much better."

 

"Except the bruises... Can feel them."

 

"Yes well, despite the bruises your face looks better."

 

Jotham then proceeded to wash the blood off of Daniel's throat where Kelsham had scratched his neck with his own knife. He cleaned around the stab wound and attempted to clean the staff burns. While he was in the process of cleaning the staff burn on Daniel's shoulder Kelsham entered. He said, "Here is his shirt. He is to put it on."

 

Kelsham then walked over to Daniel and undid the left wrist shackle. He watched dispassionately as the human nearly collapsed. Then he waited for Jackson to scream as he hung by his burned shoulder, but to his dissatisfaction Jotham was there and caught the young archaeologist in his arms. He then undid the right wrist shackle smiling as that time Daniel did scream out in pain as it sliced at him from his stiff arms and injuries. Kelsham continued smirking evilly watching as Jotham caught Jackson completely in his arms. He sneered then said, "Human's are weak Jotham maybe you should put his shirt on for him."

 

Daniel glared at Kelsham saying, "Go to hell!"

 

Jotham watched as a muscle in Kelsham's jaw twitched in response to Daniel's comment. Kelsham wanted to hurt Daniel and make him suffer. Jotham could see it in his eyes. Instead of striking Daniel, as Jotham was sure Kelsham would do, Kelsham turned on his heels and left the room commenting, "Fifteen minutes...have the human ready in fifteen minutes."

 

Daniel glared at the retreating figure of Kelsham, silently seething and glaring in his direction. He had wondered why Kelsham had arrived. He watched leerily as Kelsham approached him as if preparing to strike him. He was surprised when Osiris' First Prime instead unchained his wrists. He watched as Kelsham exited the room very glad he didn't stay.

 

Jotham questioned, "Can you stand?"

 

"Don't know."

 

Daniel struggled to his feet. His legs were wobbly so he held on to Jotham for support. When they finally stopped wobbling he responded, "Yeah..."

 

"Good. We must get your shirt on."

 

Daniel tried to raise his arms, but they were so stiff and numb from being kept in that painful position for so long that he just didn't have the strength to raise them. He said, "I'll need help..."

 

"Sure."

 

Jotham helped him pull his shirt on and Daniel winced as the pins and needles sensation wracked his arms as fresh blood pumped through to his circulation-starved blood vessels. He wanted to scream but refused to give voice to his suffering. Jotham said, "Daniel, you must stretch your arms or they will cramp up. I know it hurts to do so but circulation in your arms has been at a minimum for the last week and a half..."

 

Daniel obeyed Jotham even though he knew any movement would cause him even more discomfort. His shoulders ached and throbbed. He felt Jotham's hand touch his arm then said, "Jotham..." but lapsed into a violent cough. He bent his head sharply forward as the horrible dry coughs wracked his body adding more strain on his ribs and sore muscles. He covered his mouth with his hand as his coughing became even more violent. He tried to stop the coughs but with little success. He was totally unaware of Jotham guiding him to sit down as the coughs stole his breath and caused painful straining and pulling on his severely injured rib cage and muscles.  He clenched his eyes shut as he felt his breathing becoming short and shaky. He started gasping between coughs sure that he was going to cough up a lung or something. He felt dizzy and saw blackness as his ears began to ring. Jotham ordered in a gentle tone, "Breathe Daniel. You must breathe... I know that your ribs are in severe pain right now, but you must breathe before you lose consciousness. Come on Daniel, breathe."

 

Daniel struggled to comply inhaling deeply and whimpering as a stab of pain shot through his ribs like lightening. God, it hurt even worse to breathe but he knew he must. His wheezing was increasing and his breathing became extremely labored. He felt blood at the corner of his mouth and realized he had again coughed up blood. His coughs then ceased leaving him now struggling to pull in air. He felt as if he were suffocating. Despite the agony in his ribs and the severe burning in his oxygen-starved lungs he made himself breathe deeper. He could tell he was wheezing again, badly this time. He felt as if he was having a severe allergy attack and vaguely recalled that he hasn't had his allergy medicine in over a week. Then he made himself focus on getting control over his breathing back. He nearly sighed in relief when his breathing calmed and his wheezing decreased some. He faintly heard Jotham's voice cutting into his thoughts, "Are you all right, Daniel?"

 

Daniel couldn't put voice to his answer his throat was so raw it felt as if it had been scraped raw multiple times. He only nodded. Jotham then spoke up, "Good. Here lift up your face...blood..."

 

He gently cleaned the fresh blood from Daniel's face then questioned again, "Are you all right?"

 

Daniel managed to choke out a very low hoarse yes. Jotham got up and retrieved the glass of water he had brought. He kneeled before Daniel saying, "Here...drink...please."

 

He placed the glass gently against Daniel's lips and asked, "Ready?"

 

Then he tilted the glass slightly. Daniel found himself trying to guzzle the water. Jotham chastised gently, "Do not guzzle. You must drink slowly."

 

Daniel did as told and managed to choke down some of his water. Then he uttered, "Thank you..."

 

He heard footsteps and looked up to see who it was. He silently cursed when Kelsham entered the room carrying a pair of wrist shackles. Daniel knew those shackles were meant for him. Kelsham approached and without a word snatched Daniel about the wrist. He gripped Daniel's cut up wrist then he deliberately squeezed causing Daniel to wince. Kelsham showed no mercy as he slapped first one cold shackle on Daniel's right wrist then the other shackle on his left wrist. Kelsham then glared coldly at Daniel as he deliberately squeezed the shackle tightly closed causing Daniel to flinch and mutter in response. Kelsham questioned, "Is the human ready?"

 

"Yes he is."

 

"Good. We will then take him to Apophis' guards. We do not want Osiris' prized prisoner to escape. Do not let him unguarded. There must be two guards with him at all times. Get him up and moving. We must go join our lord."

 

Jotham helped Daniel to his feet and noticed Daniel's left leg nearly buckling under him. The blast burn on his upper left leg was still relatively fresh and weakened the leg, not to mention, Daniel was still severely under his weight. He was skinny and weak, and fever was still with him it just didn't escalate...yet. Jotham stayed right next to Daniel so that, should Daniel lose his footing or need extra help due to his present condition, Jotham was right there to catch him and lend him the extra strength he would need to trek to Anubis' main room. He looked over at Daniel as the young man started to walk and could tell the small walk was quickly zapping Daniel's small reserves of strength. He was barely staying upright. In fact, Jotham had no idea how the man could even walk in his present condition. He noticed Daniel's steps faltering and how he stumbled several times. Each time Daniel stumbled Jotham reached out gripping Daniel's upper left arm or shoulder to steady him. He noticed the young archaeologist give him a weak, grateful smile for his help and aid.

 

Daniel struggled to get to his feet as Kelsham demanded and felt his left leg buckling under him as he attempted to rise. He thought for sure he would fall when he suddenly felt strong arms help guide him upwards to steady him. Jotham was offering the aid Daniel needed. As Daniel started to walk he could feel the stiffness and pain in his legs, especially where he had been injured with a staff weapon several days ago. He started walking at a half decent pace but quickly faltered. His legs felt like lead and didn't seem to want to obey the command to walk. He was struggling just to continuously place one foot in front of another all too aware that with every step taken more of his strength was stolen from him. He could feel Jotham beside him. The man was practically shoulder to shoulder with him which, at first confused Daniel a bit until he stumbled over his own feet and felt the strong grip again. Jotham was so close to him so that he would be there to steady Daniel if it was needed. As Daniel struggled desperately to continue placing one foot in front of the other he found that he was very grateful to Jotham for being so helpful. He literally forced his badly battered body to move and obey his commands. He could tell he was extremely weak and stiff. If not for Jotham's lending aid when he stumbled and faltered Daniel knew that he'd be on the ground from his body collapsing. He found himself hoping, praying, that they were soon to this main room of Anubis' that Kelsham talked about because Daniel was sure that the small amount of strength he had left in him wouldn't last much longer. Daniel hated feeling so weak and hated having to depend on another person to help keep him upright. He was excessively glad when Kelsham stopped in a room and nodded to Jotham. Jotham said, "You may sit to wait until our lord is ready."

 

Daniel was extremely relieved to sit but sensed that once he sat down he might not be able to get back up. He decided not to think of that right now and allowed Jotham to guide him into a sitting position.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Anubis again approached Osiris saying, "Jotham is presently with the human. I have Tyran, my First Prime, bringing the serpent guards of Apophis to the main room. Do you wish to speak with them before Jackson is brought before them?"

 

"Yes, I believe I shall."

 

"Very well."

 

"I have sent Kelsham to escort Doctor Jackson to the main hall. After I am finished talking Kelsham will bring him in. Once they have seen him I want him locked in a cell in the main hall. You have mentioned a small Tel'tak hovering above the planet. I am sure they are probably here for Jackson. If that is the case allow them to find their way to him by keeping him in the open. We will set a trap for his...friends."

 

"It is soon time."

 

"I will be there shortly."

 

Anubis nodded his head then went to his main hall where he awaited the arrival of Apophis' serpent guards and Doctor Jackson.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Anubis' First Prime Tyran approached Teal'c and Za'tar to tell them they would be meeting with Anubis in his main chamber. Teal'c and Za'tar followed Tyran to the hall. Once inside the room Anubis, who sat on a throne, gestured for his First Prime to leave. Teal'c found himself wondering just where Anubis was sending him. Anubis then indicated that they should stand to his right and be patient. Anubis spoke, "Guards of Apophis you have requested to see the Tau'ri we now hold here on Ta-hetchet. As a gesture of good faith in our new alliance and to assuage any worries Apophis may have, the Tau'ri prisoner will be brought before you."

 

                                                                                    * * * *

Teal'c found himself tensing and hoping. Since Anubis was speaking of the Tau'ri that meant most likely Daniel Jackson was in fact here. If he were then Teal'c would first have to determine what condition his friend was in before determining their means of escape.

 

As Anubis' First Prime reentered the room Teal'c found himself waiting, expecting Daniel Jackson to be brought before them. Following Anubis' First Prime however was not Daniel but a young woman with flowing blond hair. Teal'c wondered if this was Anubis' queen but as she spoke he knew for certain that Doctor Jackson was here on this planet for the woman before him was none other then Osiris.

 

Osiris eyed up the two guards then spoke, "Do you know who I am? I am Osiris. You may tell Apophis that I have arisen and shall soon reclaim sole control over the system lords. Tell your lord that the Tau'ri will remain with me until I no longer desire to have him around. This was the agreement that the Tau'ri will stay here on Ta-hetchet until Anubis no longer has use for him then he will be traded to your lord. You may report this information to Apophis. If he should decide to send ships here to Ta-hetchet we will consider it an act of hostility and will destroy it. This you must tell your lord."

 

Teal'c nodded his head then spoke "I shall report this to Apophis."

 

"Very well... Kelsham, you may now bring in the prisoner. Apophis has sent you to confirm that we now hold the Tau'ri. You shall now be permitted to see him."

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Daniel could hear everything that was going on in the next room and as Osiris ordered Kelsham to bring him in Kelsham demanded, "Stand up."

 

Daniel arose, shakily getting to his feet, extremely grateful to Jotham who noticed his unsteadiness and quickly offered support. Kelsham poked Daniel in the back with his staff weapon causing Daniel to grunt as a burn was struck. He started to walk entering the room with Jotham on his left and Kelsham on his right. He could feel his energy quickly depleting despite the small break he just had but he refused to crumple, especially before the guards of Apophis.

 

Daniel was led before Anubis and now stood facing him. Daniel didn't look up at all. He was focused on maintaining his balance. The ground did a sickly pitch before his eyes and he clenched them tightly shut refusing to allow himself to collapse...yet. He again felt the reassuring touch of Jotham. Jotham must've sensed Daniel was wavering and gripped his arm to steady him. Daniel limped into the room as the burn in his upper leg ached and throbbed and as soon as they stopped he placed most of his weight onto his right leg. Daniel heard Kelsham's next order but stubbornly refused to obey, "Kneel before your god, Tau'ri!"

 

Daniel raised his head glaring coldly towards Anubis then towards Kelsham. He made no attempt to comply with Kelsham's demands. He didn't miss Osiris' nod in Kelsham's direction and knew a strike would occur shortly thereafter. Sure enough, Kelsham drove his staff weapon against the backs of Daniel's knees causing Daniel to fly downwards excessively hard onto them. He nearly screamed at the pain reverberating through his body. He had no idea how he managed to stay silent, but he couldn't conceal the lines of pain across his face or in his eyes. He was just too weak to do so at the moment. Kelsham again spoke, "You will soon learn that I have little patience, Doctor Jackson."

 

Daniel muttered low enough that only Jotham and Kelsham could hear, "Go to hell."

 

The others could tell that Daniel spoke something and could tell by Kelsham's reaction that it was disrespectful. Kelsham deliberately seized Daniel's upper right shoulder where the blast wound lay now hidden by his black t-shirt. Without thought he squeezed harshly causing Daniel to yelp in pain unconsciously. He gritted his teeth as Kelsham refused to ease up on the wound saying, "You are a most foolish creature Doctor Jackson, most foolish..."

 

"Yeah, well...ah..."

 

Daniel was about to make a smart comment when Kelsham increased the grip on his shoulder. Daniel swallowed hard gritting his teeth a look of anger and hatred crossing his features in response to the very abusive grip.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Teal'c was surprised when the young woman who entered revealed that she was Osiris and with that verbal confirmation Teal'c knew Daniel Jackson was here...somewhere. As Osiris ordered his First Prime to lead in the prisoner Teal'c watched. As soon as he saw Daniel he felt happy and excited at the same time. He had finally located his missing friend. But as he watched Daniel being led out he noticed the limp first and how Daniel was holding his head downwards. He feared Osiris might've destroyed some of the young man's spirit and found himself hoping that was not the case. As Daniel was ordered to his knees Teal'c saw the spirit in the man and left out the breath he didn't even know he held. He watched silently clenching his fists in anger and rage as Daniel was driven to his knees. Teal'c could not miss the expression of severe pain that spread across the young man's face in response...that was when he noticed the leg: Daniel had been shot by a staff weapon… The wound was very noticeable even though Daniel still wore his camoe pants he had on the day he was brought here. He also noticed the nasty bruising on Daniel's cheekbones and face from being beaten and struck repetitively. He couldn't miss the cruel shackles securing his friend either. He saw no other visible injuries and found that a bit odd then found himself wondering how many times Daniel had died so far. He didn't realize Daniel was injured further until Kelsham grabbed his shoulder. Then Teal'c knew some type of injury lie underneath that shirt. He wondered just how many other injuries lay under that shirt. He also noticed Jackson had lost a significant amount of weight...probably due to lack of food. He glared coldly at Kelsham as the man deliberately added more pressure to Daniel's shoulder causing his young friend to yelp in pain, obviously the injury that lie under that shirt on Daniel's shoulder was a nasty one. Teal'c swept his eyes in the direction of the young man to Daniel's left. He had noticed that the man offered help to Daniel. He was surprised that when Daniel stumbled entering the room the man to his left reached out a hand to steady him.  The person hid his actions so well that you had to watch him to see it. No Goa'uld had that kind of compassion and willingness to lend aid to a Tau'ri. Teal'c found the actions quite odd on the Goa'uld's part. Who was he and why was he helping Daniel?

 

Osiris approached Daniel reaching out he gripped Daniel's chin in an intense, biting grip. Daniel jerked violently away nearly screaming as he felt pain arise throughout his body at the simple movement. Osiris' eyes went ice cold at Daniel's audacity. To jerk from him while in his presence was bad enough but to do so in front of another Goa'uld pissed him off to no end. He ordered, "Take Doctor Jackson to his cell... Wait take him to that cell over there. We may have some more visitors in the near future, Kelsham. If they should arrive allow them to get to Doctor Jackson then capture them. They can stay with their friend as my prisoners."

 

Daniel heard warning bells go off inside his head. Osiris was expecting other visitors? Could he mean the other three members of SG-1? Daniel hoped not. They would be walking directly into a trap. He couldn't allow them to be captured like him. But how could he possibly warn them? Daniel spoke without thought his voice dripping venom, "You son of a bitch!"

 

Osiris responded by backhanding Daniel viciously catching him across the right side of his face. Daniel flew violently to his left this time screaming as his body flooded in pain. Jotham reacted quickly and without thought. He immediately helped Daniel by stopping him from falling to the floor. He looked at Daniel to see if the man was all right. Daniel slightly inclined his head then got back upright. His mouth and nose were now bleeding from the strike. Osiris then said, "I warned your Jack O'Neill to not ever attempt to follow us and if he does so he will again be my prisoner. I have some unfinished business with him as well... Don't worry Doctor Jackson, he'll be placed in your cell as well...for now."

 

Daniel glared menacingly at Osiris. He wanted to kill the Goa'uld with his bare hands. He found himself praying that Jack would not come because if he did he would be captured and most likely tortured as well. Osiris derived too much enjoyment from torturing and tormenting his prisoners. Daniel knows he wouldn't miss his opportunity to torment Jack, as well.

 

Teal'c glared at Osiris when he made the announcement that visitors might come. He would have to some how warn Jack and Sam of the trap. Osiris' was now using Daniel Jackson as bait to lure and trap his friends. Teal'c wasn't about to let that happen. He very nearly went for Osiris after he delivered that brutal backhand to his friend. Za'tar stopped him by placing a hand on his shoulder. If Teal'c were to defend his friend that would indicate to Osiris that he was not in the service of Apophis. He had been glad when they didn't make him and his friend lower their masks because it was more than likely that someone here would recognize him as the one who betrayed his god. As he looked at Daniel he could see how angry and outraged the young man was. He obviously realized that Osiris was using him as bait and he hated it. Osiris then ordered, "Take him to that cell."

 

He pointed to one of the cells in the room. Kelsham immediately yanked Daniel upright causing him to again scream as he jolted the painful injury on Daniel's upper right shoulder. Daniel glared coldly at Kelsham knowing Kelsham only did that to cause him pain. He felt a wave of blackness follow that stab of pain and could feel his ribs protesting as well. He placed his left arm across his abdomen as his broken ribs were jarred. Kelsham led Daniel to the cell and shoved him inside. Daniel nearly screamed again as he fell painfully on his right hip. He lay there for several minutes before making himself get up. He then sat down leaning his back against one of the cell walls and focused on calming his now shaky breath. He glared coldly at Kelsham when he saw the Goa'uld smiling evilly at him. Then Kelsham locked the cell door.

 

Teal'c had to struggle to contain himself. He wanted to grab Osiris' First Prime around the throat for deliberately causing his friend pain. He had a feeling Osiris' First Prime caused some of those injuries on his friend's body. Kelsham would pay.

 

They only stayed there a short while longer then Anubis excused them.

 

Daniel was again left alone in a cell and this time he had more freedom of movement. His hands were still chained but not above him. He had to figure out how to warn his friends. Obviously Osiris was expecting Jack to arrive. He even said that he had warned Jack not to pursue them so it was safe to say that either his friends were already here or were on their way. Daniel knew that he should be glad they were coming for him but knowing the trap Osiris was setting he found now that he wished they wouldn't locate him. If Osiris captured them he would taunt them and torture them as well. Osiris enjoyed inducing pain. Daniel had learned first hand just how much pleasure Osiris derived from inducing pain.  He enjoyed it just a bit too much.

 

Daniel found that despite his fear and worry for his friends and his attempts to remain alert and awake he was starting to drift asleep again. He hated feeling so weak. He used up most of his energy just making a simple trip from one room to another. He hated how he had to struggle just to remain upright. He caught himself nodding off and jerked his head up wincing as anguish filled his body. He continued to struggle not to sleep but quickly lost that battle. He would just lay down a little bit the pain in his right leg would keep him awake. He laid down wincing as laying on his right leg hurt like hell. He turned a bit feeling the pain ease some in his leg and in his ribs. He drifted asleep shortly after that.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Sam Carter constantly scanned the forest for any signs of structures. Her dad had told them this was the correct direction to the complex, but they still haven't come across it. She could tell that Jack was just a little bit pissed that they haven't located this elusive complex of Anubis'. Where the hell was it? As she scanned the area again she stopped and spoke, "Sir..."

 

"Yes Major?"

 

She didn't even realize she spoke aloud as she focused on what appeared to be a roof of a building peaking out above the trees. She stared at it for several long minutes not sure if she was seeing it or not when Jack's voice pierced her thoughts, "Major?"

 

Sam pointed towards the part of roof she saw jutting above some of the treetops then said, "I think we may have found Sekhem."

 

"Well, it's about damned time!"

 

"Yes sir, it is."

 

"Well Carter, let's go."

 

"Yes sir."

 

The two trudged through the undergrowth of this jungle-like forest towards the structure they both hoped was Sekhem. Jack again found himself wondering just how the hell they would be able to get Daniel through these woods if he was badly injured. He thought of the Stargate, which according to Jacob would be under heavy guard. Jack didn't feel like blasting his way out of here, but if Daniel was badly hurt they might have to make their escape through that heavily guarded gate. If Daniel were here he would most likely send Teal'c with the young man because if Daniel was weak or badly injured he may need to be carried and Teal'c was the strongest. He could carry Daniel the furthest.

 

                                                                                  * * * *

Once alone Teal'c found a place to transmit to Jacob. Jacob jumped up as he heard Teal'c saying his name. He spoke into the radio, "Yes I read you Teal'c. Go ahead."

 

"Doctor Jackson is indeed here along with Osiris."

 

"You have seen Daniel?"

 

"Yes I have. He has an injured leg so attempts to get him to the transport rings may not work. He also has an injured shoulder, but I have not yet seen that injury up close to know how bad it is."

 

"Teal'c you will have to get Daniel to the rings. If you head for the Stargate you won't make it off of this planet. Anubis has it very heavily guarded."

 

"I am aware, but I may not have a choice. Daniel Jackson is weak and badly injured. He may not be able to traverse the forest to get to the teleport rings."

 

"Are you certain?"

 

"Yes I am certain."

 

"Damn! Either way you will have to travel through the forest for a time. You determine if Daniel is strong enough to make the journey... Has Jack or Sam arrived there yet?"

 

"No, they have not."

 

"They should be at or near the complex now..."

 

"I must go Jacob Carter, someone approaches."

 

Then the conversation came to an abrupt end. Jacob was very happy that Daniel was indeed on that planet. Now they would have to figure out just how to get him off of Ta-hetchet. Teal'c had said Daniel was both injured and weak, which means the sarcophagus wasn't used or hasn't been used in several days. He went back to what he was doing. Keeping busy was keeping his mind off of the dangers his friends and daughter were exposing themselves to.

 

                                                                                   * * * *

Jack O'Neill nearly jumped for joy when he saw the complex before them. He indicated to Sam via hand gestures that they should now be silent and that he was going to enter the complex. His temporary captivity with the god Osiris on P3X-173 helped him to learn some of the lay out of these complexes. They were all rather similar in design. He indicated he was entering and made his way silently into the building. He scanned for guards a bit surprised when none were nearby. He heard warning bells go off in the back of his mind. This felt suspiciously like a trap and if it was it could only mean one thing: Daniel had to be here somewhere.

 

                                                                                     * * * *

Daniel Jackson came slightly awake realizing he was extremely hot. He was confused then vaguely recalled the fever that has been with him the last few days. The fever must have decided it was time to rear its head.  Daniel groaned as he felt hot. He then drifted asleep again falling prey to the sudden fever that seized him. Some where in the back of his mind he knew he had to stay awake. It was extremely important that he stay awake, but why? He couldn't remember as the fever lolled him into deeper rest.

 

                                                                                       * * * *

Teal'c attempted to radio his friends, but couldn't get a hold of them. This had him very worried. It was unlike either of them to not respond. He wondered if his friends had been captured. He hoped not. He headed outside the complex thinking that maybe the walls of the building were blocking communication. As he exited the building he saw a flash of movement and headed that way. As he neared the area he saw someone watching the building intently. He spoke, "Major Carter."

 

Sam Carter had been focusing so intently on the building where Jack had gone that she had failed to hear the approaching footsteps and as Teal'c spoke her name she jumped nearly screaming and announcing her presence. She wheeled around seeing the Apophis guard standing before her and for just an instant she was back on Netu. She cleared her mind then asked,

"Teal'c?"

 

"It is I Major Carter. Where is O'Neill?"

 

"He went inside."

 

"Osiris has set a trap for him."

 

"Osiris? That means that Daniel..."

 

"And Daniel Jackson is the bait."

 

"So he..."

 

"Yes he is here, Major Carter."

 

"Thank heavens. How is he? Have you seen him?"

 

"We must first leave this area. It is too dangerous."

 

Sam nodded and they moved to a better hiding place to speak. Teal'c said, "Major Carter, he is weak and badly injured. He was wounded on his upper right leg. He will need help to get off of Ta-hetchet."

 

"What is this trap you spoke of?"

 

"Anubis spotted the Tel'tak when you were ringed down."

 

"The ship uncloaked...dad said that would happen."

 

"Anubis knew that the ship was not a threat. It is too small, so he is sure the ship had us aboard. He reported his suspicions to Osiris and Osiris set his trap."

 

"With Daniel as bait."

 

"Yes."

 

"And we walked right into it. Which means..."

 

"O'Neill will be captured when he locates Daniel Jackson."

 

"Great so that leaves you and I to break both of them out."

 

"Yes."

 

"All right then I say let's go set up a game plan..."

 

 

 Next:

 

          PART 6

 

 

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