Vanquishing Demons, Part 2
Part 2 of Vanquishing Demons: The Mission
Part Two: The Mission
Teal'c took a deep breath after he exited the Stargate. The fresh air of the moon they arrived on was a surprising palliative. The rest of the group were cautiously spreading out around the area, trying to act inconspicuous while forming a protective barrier.
Two of SG-7 were to remain at the gate; they also retained standard military gear under their robes. Although SG-1 was going to move undercover close to the temple and mine, General Hammond was taking no chances on a planet with Jaffa, even one with a dead Goa'uld. He ordered at least half of SG-7 fully kitted out with full ordinance, and Teal'c suspected Lt. Col Lewis was also packing additional weaponry. Lieutenant Colonel Lewis and Captain Collins led SG-1 towards the village. As they walked, Daniel Jackson took the opportunity to ask more about the area.
"Why is the village so far from the mine?"
Captain Collins shrugged under his robes. "I think they said there used to be another mine close to the village. For this most recent vein, Heru'ur only built the pyramid temple before ordering all the villagers to work the mine. I think he was worried more about getting the ore than a long commute."
Teal'c nodded at the captain's assessment. "The comfort of their slaves would be a minor consideration. The temple would be the priority."
"Especially if they're transporting the naquadah directly onto ha'taks instead of the Stargate." Major Carter added.
"As for the commute, they also had these." Colonel Lewis pointed to the distance, where a group of men could be seen traveling down the road from the direction of the village. They were not moving by foot, but by some kind of gold colored large vehicle that moved swiftly towards them.
Teal' c raised an eyebrow in surprise. "A transport."
Major Carter turned towards him, her features hidden by the heavy hood. "How come we haven't seen these before, Teal'c?"
"They are not often used. Most Goa'uld do not want their magic...their technology in the hands of slaves. They also are not very maneuverable. They cannot turn or handle uneven terrain. They are mostly used for straight passages on flat surfaces."
"So a kind of Goa'uld train?" O'Neill stated. "It looks Engine No. 9 is arriving now."
The transport slowed as it approached the group. Several on board began to prostrate themselves before the "priests." But one raised his head defiantly and regarded the group with skepticism. He hopped off the transport, and it continued on its way, presumably towards the mines. Captain Collins lowered his hood. Once the young man recognized him, his face lit up with a smile.
Captain Collins turned to the others. "It's Sandide. He's the son of the leader of the village, and someone very anxious to see the evil gods disappear."
He began to speak to Sandide in halting tones. Sandide returned the greeting and began to speak rapidly. "We began to fear you would not return. Even more of the Jaffa have gone, taking some of the villagers with them. Only a few still working the mines and the women and children remain."
Teal'c exchanged grim looks with Daniel Jackson. They both knew human slaves were used as battle fodder in a last ditch tactic of the Goa'uld. Daniel turned and explained what Sandide said to the group.
Captain Collins's eyes widened in concern for the young man. "Your father?"
"He was considered too elderly to go."
Captain Collins nodded, relieved, and introduced the rest of the party to Sandide. Daniel Jackson took over most of the communication at that point, with occasional help from Teal'c. While they walked the rest of the way to the village. Sandide further explained what had happened. How more rumors of Heru'ur's demise had trickled through the village after SG-7 departed. A few villagers remained in denial, and volunteered to join Heru'ur's army, but more and more people began to believe the movement Sandide and others had started several months before SG-7 arrived, that Heru'ur was an evil god.
When SG-7 arrived with their own magic and different language, many dared to imagine that Heru'ur was not a god at all. Several refused to go the mines anymore, and there were not enough Jaffa to force them. Many of the priests from Heru'ur's temple left in the gods' vessels in despair to see to the spiritual needs of the faithful. Only a few hundred were left from the few thousand that had inhabited the planet even a week ago.
By this point they had arrived at the village. Sandide's father and the village elders joined them. They looked to the SG teams as if they were their saviors and confirmed Sandide's story. "But now, you will help us, will you not?"
"Yes." Teal'c answered confidently as Daniel Jackson hesitated. His friend shot him a glare, then expanded on Teal'c's statement.
"Well, that depends. We can tell you for a fact that Heru'ur is gone. But our forces are limited against a number of Jaffa. Though not magic, their weapons are powerful."
"The soldiers are so few, they no longer guard the village. Two-tens remain in the protection of the temple with the remaining priests, taking our daily tribute of the holy rock."
Daniel Jackson translated for the others.
"Twenty Jaffa left. They're sure that's all there is?", O'Neill looked rightly skeptical.
Teal'c confirmed the translation. "If we are to believe these elders, O'Neill, that is correct."
"Well, that and a handful of priests," Daniel added.
Teal'c dismissed this. "Priests would not carry weapons."
O'Neill patted his robes. "We do."
"We are not priests, O'Neill."
Teal'c could see O'Neill shifting impatiently under his robes. "What about the naquadah. Any word on that?"
Daniel Jackson turned back to Sandide and his father. "The substance you mined for Heru'ur, our people would make use of it to fight the false gods, but only with your permission."
"If you help us remove the last of the invaders, you are free to have as much as you would wish. We would mine it for you."
One of the other elders spoke up. "So free to give our labor away again? Are we trading one false god for another?"
"No." Daniel Jackson hastened to explain, slipping into English again accidentally. "No. We would never ask you to do something against your will. If we are able to help your people remove the remaining Jaffa, we would accept whatever you give us. Or if you allow us, our people would mine the substance ourselves."
The elders spoke low to each other. Teal'c could tell the one man was still suspicious and resisting, but finally all agreed.
"We accept your proposal, and freely give you what we can. The god's rocks have no meaning to us. We only harvested them to serve him."
Daniel Jackson bowed his head in a gesture of gratitude. "By allowing this, you help us not only fight the Goa'uld here, but on many worlds like this."
Daniel Jackson and Teal'c continued to converse with the elders, explaining that they needed more samples and a better sense of the Jaffa that were left. The elders agreed that Sandide should lead them past the temples to the mines. O'Neill ordered the two members of SG-7 to return to the Stargate and report to Hammond on their progress while SG-1 performed reconnaissance of the mines and temple.
"Besides, I've still got a bad feeling about this with all the Jaffa leaving town. I'd feel better if there was more a presence at the 'Gate in case they decide to come back."
"A bad feeling, Colonel?
"That's why they pay me the big bucks, Lewis."
Lieutenant Colonel Lewis saluted. "Gotta love the American taxpayers, Colonel. Collins, move out."
They traveled by foot. They adjusted their robes as they approached the temple to hide their features better, but no one challenged them as they passed. A few Horus guards could be seen by the temple entrance, but they gave it wide berth and continued to the mines.
The group arrived at the mine entrance. A man came out of the mine, questioning Sandide and looking suspiciously at the four priests flanking him. After Sandide explained why they were there, the young man smiled and nodded, welcoming them further into the mine. They found about thirty men leisurely tossing ore onto the transport who greeted SG-1 with open arms.
Teal'c listened to the miners' stories, feeling confident at this information and pleased he could contribute. He interpreted the probable Goa'uld tactics from their descriptions for the benefit of his teammates. "The Jaffa guard the harvested ore at the temple so as to be within easy reach of the rings in case recalled. It is a desperate measure. Whatever Goa'uld is trying to retain Heru'ur's empire, he is facing defeat at the hands of Apophis or other rival."
The miners' transport was half filled with naquadah, and Major Carter smiled as she took her readings. "SG-7's initial analysis was correct, sir. This vein of naquadah is about the purest of weapons grade we've come across."
"Sandide, Sandide!" A young girl breathlessly tore into the mines. "They have returned. The evil ones!"
Sandide frowned at the intrusion. "What has happened? Speak clearly."
"It was the unnamed one. He returned to the village with new warriors like the cobra, and told everyone Apophis is our new true god." The girl broke down into tears.
"Daniel?" O'Neill waited impatiently.
Daniel spoke almost as quickly as the girl, translating almost without comprehension. "She's saying a Goa'uld called the unnamed one has arrived with Serpent guards and told the people they must now worship Apophis."
"The unnamed one?"
Daniel Jackson shrugged. "Apparently, he's some underlord of Heru'ur's that switched sides to join Apophis, but there's no way I can figure out which one."
Daniel Jackson looked at Teal'c for further elucidation. Teal'c also shook his head. "I am unable to determine which Goa'uld it could be from this little information."
While they had been speaking, the girl finally was able to stop her sobs long enough to speak further.
Daniel Jackson continued to translate, his face paling as he spoke. "He says that after SG-7 returned to the Stargate, this unnamed Goa'uld arrived by some kind of smaller Goa'uld ship, probably an al'kesh from the description. The village elders defied the Goa'uld, they said they knew Heru'ur was dead and they would not follow any more false gods." Daniel Jackson paused and gasped before continuing. "They were executed in front of everyone."
"Oh, God." Major Carter turned away.
"Another ship arrived and started firing. The Goa'uld and Jaffa gave a final warning to obey their new god, then...ringed back aboard their ship and flew off, the other one, sounds like a death glider, gave chase."
Teal'c tensed. "Apophis cannot be allowed to take this planet." These people should see enslavement no more, and if Apophis obtained this naquadah, he would become even more a threat to the system lords.
"I know, Teal'c." O'Neill's voice held a deceptive calm. Teal'c understood the hidden meaning. He needed to follow his leader's guidance. It was hard, he felt responsible for these people, these freed slaves. Teal'c wanted to take action, but he would follow O'Neill's leadership.
Sandide was rocking back and forth, muttering. Major Carter watched the young man, concerned. "What's he saying?"
Daniel Jackson shook his head. "He's saying they should have followed the signs."
O'Neill became instantly alert. "What signs?"
Daniel Jackson got Sandide's attention and asked him to explain. Still upset, the young native began to speak rapidly. Daniel Jackson blinked and frowned, turning to Teal'c with a furrowed brow. "He said the stars foretold this in their fall?"
Teal'c clarified. "He said their future was determined by the stars falling from the heavens the last few nights. It appears he has observed space battles in this system in the night sky."
"Oh, for crying out loud. He couldn't have mentioned this before?"
"Jack, he didn't know it was important."
"Knowing the Goa'uld are fighting on their doorstep is what I consider 'need to know' information, Daniel." O'Neill threw back his hood and ruffled his hair in frustration. "All right, we can't do much with this naquadah now if we're going to have Apophis's Jaffa on our ass. See if the villagers are willing to leave."
Teal'c explained. "We do not have the numbers currently to fight this new evil god. You are now leader in your father's stead. If you are willing, we could take you to another world, one safe from the Goa'uld, where you could no longer be enslaved."
Sandide hesitated, clearly fearful at the prospect of leaving his home. "We will be free of the evil gods?"
"We'll send you somewhere they cannot harm you." Daniel Jackson said with confidence.
"Then we will go with you before the evil ones can take more of our numbers." Sandide nodded his head with resolve. "My father will not have died in vain."
Daniel turned back to O'Neill and nodded his head.
"Okay, campers. Let's get a move on." O'Neill keyed his radio and ordered Lieutenant Colonel Lewis's team to get the people still in the village through the Stargate as soon as possible. He then turned to Major Carter.
"Carter, you and Daniel lead Sandy and his buddies back."
"What about you, sir?"
"If Apophis is here, he can't get his hands on that naquadah. Give me your C-4. Teal'c and I will set charges to blow the mine. If we can't have it, the snakes can't either."
"Jack..."
"You've got your orders. Teal'c and I will be right behind you. Understood?"
Daniel Jackson set his mouth in a thin line and Major Carter nodded grimly. The pair exchanged one more somber look with them before herding Sandide and the rest of his men onto the transport, still half filled with naquadah, and leaving.
"Come on, T. The sooner we do this, the sooner we get out of here." They set to work.
Daniel watched as Sam and Sandide adjusted the controls, trying to milk that much more speed out of the transport. The sounds of explosions became louder all the time, and the miners cringed in fear. Daniel tried to reassure them, explaining they would join their families soon.
Further discussion was limited as an errant blast tore open the ground in front of them. Sandide struggled to maintain control of the transport, but Daniel realized Teal'c was being a master of understatement when he said this contraption didn't maneuver well. The transport tipped forward, everyone jostled together while some of the naquadah spilled over into the road.
"Incoming!" Sam shouted. Daniel ordered the men to get down before cringing himself, instinctively trying to cover Sam as well. Dirt peppered his back and hair as the bouncing transport moved past another explosion.
"The Jaffa are as bad a shot as ever," Daniel shouted to Sam over the percussion of the blasts.
"They're not firing at us." Sam pointed to the sky, and Daniel saw two death gliders firing at each other. The transport was caught in errant crossfire.
"In that case, we should be worried." Daniel shot his teammate a weak smile, which she returned. Sandide adjusted the controls. The vehicle's engine whined at the added stress as they sped out of the battle zone.
After an eternity, the Stargate was visible, the event horizon shimmering like a beacon. SG-7 could be seen under the limited cover of two empty transports by the DHD, protecting the Stargate and exchanging fire with some Jaffa in the tree line several yards away. Daniel saw an al'kesh skimming away, its ring system sealing. SG-7 must not have been under fire long, and if they were not concerned about the open Gate, that hopefully meant it was dialed someplace friendly. He pointed the situation out to Sam, who nodded.
She gestured to Sandide in easy to understand sign language, and with one nervous glance at Daniel, the young man relinquished the controls.
Carter flipped some controls. "You know how to work this?", Daniel asked.
"There aren't many options. Forward, stop, turn." Sam's expression was grim. "When I give the signal, tell everyone to jump ship to the right."
"Sam?" Daniel's eyes widened. He did not like the implications of her order.
She just shot him a glance before concentrating on the controls. Taking a deep breath, Daniel did as she bid. A few minutes later he could make out the individual members of SG-7 crouched behind their cover. Daniel was beginning to feel nauseous. Their transport was weaving erratically, Daniel could see Sam's knuckles on the steering column, barely holding control...if she was keeping control.
He didn't want to break her concentration, but she was getting dangerously close to colliding with the other team. "Sam?"
Sam's voice was barely audible over the whine of the firefight. "Five...four...three...two..."
"Jump!", Daniel shouted, only waiting to see that Sam was coming too before leaping free of the shuddering vehicle. He tumbled into the dirt, continuing to roll for a few moments as pieces of naquadah scattered across the ground around him.
When he got his equilibrium back, Daniel crouched, zat at ready, and looked around. All of the men were scattered across the clearing in front of the Stargate. Some looked stunned. One was vomiting, but none were seriously injured. When he looked in front of him, he could see the transport lying on its side perpendicular to the ground. It had skidded to a stop in the dirt, perfectly aligned between the two other transports to give a continuous area of coverage. A few feet away from him, Sam was struggling to rise, her robes twisted around her in her fall.
Daniel immediately moved to her and checked her for injuries, noting that she was doing the same to him. Aside from a few scrapes, she appeared fine. He smiled and nodded his head towards the transport. "Damn, Sam. You must have aced parallel parking in driver's ed."
She coughed, her movement suppressing a smile, and he realized she was just as surprised it worked as he was. Daniel hoped this meant SG-1's luck was with them-the good "beating the odds to save the day" luck; Daniel tried not to think of the other kind of luck which usually ended up with one or more of them captured, tortured, and/or killed.
Sam said, "You okay?"
"Yeah. You?"
She barely had time to nod before Lt. Col. Lewis came up from Sam's right and clapped her on the back. "Quite an entrance, Major."
"Thank you, sir. The Stargate?"
"Leading to home."
Lewis was already waving the miners to go through. Fearful, they were hesitating, but Capt. Collins was yelling to them, trying to reassure them between firing shots of cover fire. At Col. Lewis's nod, Collins moved to the event horizon and stepped through. After a few more moments of indecision, Sandide appeared to steel himself and leapt through after him. The other miners followed suit.
Col. Lewis was still exchanging situational information with Sam. "Where's Col. O'Neill?"
"Sabotaging the mine, sir."
They dove for cover as a crater opened up just on the other side of the three transports, scattering them again with dirt.
Lt. Evans yelled to the SG-7 commander. "Sir, they've set up a cannon."
"Great, just what we need." Col. Lewis grit his teeth, and Daniel realized with three of them only armed with the shorter range zats, only half the group had firepower that could even reach the Jaffa.
Daniel's knee rolled over a stone as he shifted position. He picked it up, and realized it was a piece of the naquadah...the naquadah that had scattered all around them. "Uh, guys? Is it a good idea to be holing up surrounded by explosive mineral?"
Sam's eyes widened in alarm, then sparked to life. Daniel instantly recognized the look of inspiration. "You've just given me an idea, Daniel."
She grabbed a nearby piece of ore, discarding it before finding a smaller one, barely bigger than a pebble. "Sir, did your packed ordinance come with grenades?"
Lewis beckoned to Lt. Evans, a large man who almost dwarfed Teal'c. "The Major needs a grenade, Lieutenant."
"And tape, sir."
Evans pulled a grenade from his belt and some duct tape from his vest, handing them both to Sam.
Col. Lewis shook his head. "Major, you strapping added firepower is all well and good, but it could easily and quite literally backfire on us."
"I don't think so, sir. It's not refined, and this is not a nuclear weapon. I'm just adding a tad to the explosive force. We've got to take out as many of these Jaffa as we can and hold the Gate for Col. O'Neill."
Col. Lewis glared, but he nodded.
The Jaffa's staff cannon fired again, causing the crashed transport to teeter slightly before settling back in place. Sam stood, but before she could pull the pin, Lt. Evans interrupted.
"Ma'am? I was all American in college."
Sam blinked for a moment before holding out her hand. Evans took the grenade, pulled the pin and heaved it with all his might. Daniel watched through a small gap in the transports as it landed within a few feet of the staff cannon.
A few seconds later, the grenade exploded, the naquadah enhancing its range and force. The nearby trees shattered. The transports shuddered again, but did not collapse on top of the team members. Suddenly the area was quiet; there were no more enemy Jaffa with whom to exchange fire.
Sam turned to the others, her eyes wide, and smeared a smudge on her face. "Well, guess we've field tested the quality."
"Glad you picked the smaller rock, Major. Else we would've been part of that blast ourselves." Col. Lewis shook his head, and Daniel knew they had just added to SG-1's reputation of being both crazy and "damn lucky sumbitches," as one marine once exclaimed.
Daniel scanned the horizon, but could see no more enemy ships over the rising smoke. "Hopefully, they won't send any more soldiers to the Stargate."
Col. Lewis agreed. "I don't want to stick around here for any longer than necessary. We're going to pick up as much of the ore as we can and send it back home. I don't want to be on the receiving end of a blast like that if more Jaffa come and get lucky."
Sam exchanged a grim look with Daniel before turning to Lewis. "Sir, Col. O'Neill and Teal'c have no transport to get back. They'll have to go on foot. It may take too long."
Daniel studied the leader of SG-7. There was no way Daniel was going to leave his friends here, and he knew Sam felt the same, even if she would have to follow the orders of a superior officer like Lt. Col. Lewis. He unconsciously started backing towards one of the two transports still parallel to the ground instead of Sam's perpendicular one, only arresting his movement when Lewis's eyes tracked to him. Lewis merely quirked a smile and nodded towards the transport.
"We'll hold the door open for you, Major, redialing out if we have to. Bring our guys back."
"Yes, sir." Daniel and Sam sprinted aboard the transport and raced back towards the mine.
Teal'c and O'Neill set the last of the charges in the mines, packing them into the walls of the cavern. By doing this, Teal'c felt at peace. Apophis would not use this planet to fuel his quest for more power. No more innocent people would suffer at the hands of a Goa'uld on this world. When finished, Teal'c turned to his friend.
O'Neill said, "Okay that's the last of them. Let's move out, Teal'c, and try and take the short cut."
O'Neill and Teal'c started to move away from the mines at a rapid jog, speed being more advantageous than stealth at this point. Their robes only slightly hampered their movements. They had almost reached the safety of the woods when a harsh voice cried out to them.
"Kree. Tal shal mek."
"Crap." O'Neill muttered underneath his breath.
Teal'c started, surprised by the voice of the Jaffa so close without him sensing them. Hand on his zat, Teal'c began to turn, about to fire, when the figure standing between the two Serpent Guards caused Teal'c to freeze in shock.
"Terok."
"Crap." Jack muttered again. So close. Hopefully Daniel and Carter had gotten to the Stargate by now with the remaining villagers. Jack bit back the bitterness at what had happened to the village elders. Peripherally, he could see the hint of staff weapons pointing out of the bushes; if Jack or Teal'c resisted, they would be cut down immediately.
Jack knew it was a Goa'uld standing between two Serpent Guards by the glow of his eyes. "Jaffa. Chel nok," the Goa'uld snarled.
Two more Jaffa Jack hadn't even seen came forward and grabbed both of them. Surrounded as they were, Jack knew it was hopeless to resist, but he was surprised at how little Teal'c reacted to their capture. He stared straight ahead, straight at the Goa'uld, oblivious to anything else going on around them. Even Apophis usually didn't garner this kind of reaction in his friend. Jack would bet dollars to donuts that this Goa'uld was the one who had put Teal'c through the wringer on the last mission. Crap.
The Goa'uld spoke something unintelligible. Jack glanced over at Teal'c but his friend was still not responsive.
"Sorry, no habla Jaffa," Jack shrugged.
The Goa'uld switched to English. "I thought all priests were trained in the languages of the gods, slave." The Goa'uld's eyes flashed once again as he came forward and pulled down Jack's hood, his movement smearing the black tattoo mark that was already smudged from the sweat from working in the mines.
The Goa'uld reared back in puzzlement. "You are no priest! What are you doing here?"
"Well, you know, it just looked so nice in the brochure."
The Goa'uld ignored Jack and pulled down Teal'c's hood. Teal'c still had no reaction. He was not even looking at the Goa'uld, but at the fixed point where Terok had stood when they were first captured.
Jack did not like this reaction in Teal'c at all, and really didn't like it when the Goa'uld's eyes flashed again, his face breaking out in a grin. "Shol'va! I did not expect to see you, Teal'c. This will be a great pleasure to my lord Apophis. He will be greatly pleased with me. Perhaps he will enjoy renewing your acquaintance as much as I?"
Teal'c only blinked, but Jack saw his body shudder. He didn't think the Goa'uld noticed, because his attention was drawn once again to Jack. "I recognize you now. Jackso...no, O'Neill."
The Goa'uld slapped Jack's face with such force Jack stumbled before righting himself. The Goa'uld merely laughed. "Apophis should be doubly pleased. The Tau'ri and his shol'va pet."
Jack fumed, but was unable to do much with at least three staff weapons pointed at his head. The Jaffa frisked them both, easily finding their weapons and radios. They passed them to the Goa'uld. Jack held his breath as this Terok fiddled with the detonator to the C-4 before tossing it in a satchel with the other devices. As the Jaffa began to march them towards the temple buildings, Jack hoped the rest of his team would figure out what had happened soon, and hoped Teal'c would snap out of his automaton impression.
As Daniel and Sam approached the mines, they noted a number of Serpent guards beginning to move around the area. All attempts at radio contact with their teammates only met with static. The pair abandoned their transport just outside the temple compound and stealthily moved to one of the outbuildings just beside the pyramid. Daniel absently observed it was likely an abandoned guard post. A few bunks and candles were in one room, a table and chairs in another. A storage room to one side held a broken staff weapon, likely the old armory. There was a second floor leading to observation posts, and he pointed out the stairwell to Sam.
She nodded in instant agreement. "We may get a better look of the area."
They climbed the stairs. There was a corridor and a few rooms. One had a large window facing the mines. Daniel and Sam quickly entered the room and looked outside.
It was from there they saw a disheveled Jack and Teal'c being escorted by six helmeted guards and a bare-headed man. Daniel wondered if this was the Goa'uld that had ordered the village elders' death. At least Jack and Teal'c were alive. The Goa'uld wanted them for some reason. Daniel decided not to dwell on what reason at the moment. As he and Sam watched, the prisoners and their escort moved into the pyramid. Once out of sight, the two team members moved away from their hidden perch and exchanged glum expressions.
"Not good."
"No."
Daniel thought quickly, studying their location and the area. It was mostly deserted. Not even many guards except for the ones they saw with Jack and Teal'c and a pair stationed at the other end of the compound. "Well, at least we shouldn't attract too much attention dressed like this."
"You think so? It doesn't seem to have helped the Colonel and Teal'c all that much."
"But they were still in the mines after everyone else had cleared out. It was suspicious. This area's a temple. Priests are common here. We'll be much less conspicuous."
"Okay. Well, we'd better check on the Stargate to know if we still have a line of retreat. Keep your radio tuned to the main frequency in case Col. O'Neill is able to somehow make contact." Samantha fumbled with her robes, and Daniel could hear a brief static in his earpiece as she connected with the unit. There was first a double click, loud, from Sam's radio, then an answering, weaker double click from SG-7. Sam then clicked her radio three times, then twice, then twice again before changing the frequency.
"Sierra Gulf One to Sierra Gulf Seven."
"Sierra Gulf Seven Niner. What's up?"
"Observed Sierra Gulf One Team Alpha apprehended. Status at your location?"
"Remaining refugees have been transported home. We've seen some gliders in a dogfight, but they paid no attention to us. Stargate is still secure. Do you need assistance?"
His ear half tuned to Sam's radio conversation with Colonel Lewis, Daniel became aware of the unmistakable clanking of Jaffa warriors topping the stairwell and headed straight for them. He gripped Sam's arm before she could speak further, his eyes darting in warning to the passage beyond.
"Stand by." Carter whispered into her radio before hiding it back in her robes and grabbing her zat. Daniel was already holding his weapon at ready, priming it before wrapping his arms within his sleeves. Sam copied his movements a second later. They both bowed their heads as two Horus guards entered their chamber.
"Kree. Kel shek?" Stop. What are you doing here? Daniel automatically translated in his head.
Daniel thought quickly. Things were in a large state of flux if Apophis's and Heru'ur's Jaffa were both on the planet. Perhaps answering aggression with aggression would be the best route. The more he acted like he and Sam belonged and the guards were the interlopers, the quicker they may get by.
"We have just delivered homage to our god to give him strength. Should you not be out protecting Heru'ur's holdings from the vile Apophis interlopers?"
The Horus guard stiffened. "Who are you to question our duties?"
"Merely humble priests who wonder if our god will have to smite interlopers himself when his guards lounge while Serpent guards invade our holy sites."
"What invasion? Speak clearly, priest." Both guards became more alert and readied their weapons. Beside him, he felt Sam stiffen but he shook his head slightly. They shouldn't make their move yet.
"Why, we spotted half a dozen Serpent guards through the window just now. How can his loyal guards not know what we can see clearly? Our only hope is that they do not take our lord's holy rock." Daniel gestured at the window with his left hand, careful to keep his right arm holding his zat hidden within his sleeve. "Can you not see? Look there, one still guards the entrance."
The Horus guards clanked over to the window, startled by the appearance of a Serpent guard at a building. Daniel pointed to a building opposite from where they Teal'c and Jack were taken. When certain the guards' attention was focused outside, Daniel nudged Sam towards the door. Hopefully they could use the distraction. While the Horus and Serpent guards fought, they could rescue Jack and Teal'c in the confusion.
Unfortunately, the guards were not distracted enough. Daniel and Sam's escape did not go unnoticed.
"Wait. Stop. This still does not explain why you are alone here in a restricted area without escort. Priests, you will hold."
Daniel sighed. "Plan B," he whispered to Sam. As one, they drew their zats and fired on the guards. The armor clanked as the guards shuddered under the blue electricity and fell to the floor, unconscious.
"Let's get out of here before their friends come along."
"My thoughts exactly."
They once again concealed their weapons and barely made it a few steps before practically slamming into two Serpent guards. The guards immediately charged their staff weapons. Daniel could not believe this coincidence. Well, if the ruse worked once. He backed away to give them room and lowered his head to look meek and unthreatening. Through his lowered gaze he noted Sam doing the same.
The guards were obviously taking in the situation. Two "priests" and two downed enemy Jaffa. Daniel hoped they wouldn't put together this particular two plus two scenario. Maybe, if they were lucky, the ruse would work twice in a row. Daniel just had to watch what he said in this volatile situation. He switched to the dialect used by the locals and took the initiative.
"My lords, forgive your humble servants. We do not know what to do. We have discovered these two fallen warriors. We shall leave them to you and join our people. We only wish to serve the gods."
Daniel thought he may be laying it on a bit thick, but these two were more alert than the Horus guards and he really wanted out of here before anyone else arrived in this Jaffa party. Trying not to be obvious, he tried to back Sam around the pair.
Instead one of the Serpent Guards stepped forward and grabbed Daniel's arm. Luckily Daniel had the wherewithal to release his grip on the zat gun, letting it drop within the folds of his robes.
"Hey." Sam's exclamation cut short. Daniel hoped it was because she realized speaking English was not a good idea, but as he glanced over, he realized unfortunately it was just as likely because of the charged staff weapon pointed at her head.
He tried to mollify the Jaffa closest to Sam before he got too trigger happy. "This young one is not worthy of your attention, lord."
Worried about trying to protect Sam, he wasn't paying attention to his own precarious state until the Jaffa's grasp on his arm hardened, and his hood was roughly pulled off. Perfect. Even if the Jaffa didn't recognize him on sight from the System Lords most wanted list, the makeup on his forehead marked him as a priest of Apophis's rival. Best case scenario, this guard wouldn't be the type to shoot first and ask questions later.
"What are you doing here?!?"
For Part One and disclaimer, go here
For Part Three, go here
Part Two: The Mission
Teal'c took a deep breath after he exited the Stargate. The fresh air of the moon they arrived on was a surprising palliative. The rest of the group were cautiously spreading out around the area, trying to act inconspicuous while forming a protective barrier.
Two of SG-7 were to remain at the gate; they also retained standard military gear under their robes. Although SG-1 was going to move undercover close to the temple and mine, General Hammond was taking no chances on a planet with Jaffa, even one with a dead Goa'uld. He ordered at least half of SG-7 fully kitted out with full ordinance, and Teal'c suspected Lt. Col Lewis was also packing additional weaponry. Lieutenant Colonel Lewis and Captain Collins led SG-1 towards the village. As they walked, Daniel Jackson took the opportunity to ask more about the area.
"Why is the village so far from the mine?"
Captain Collins shrugged under his robes. "I think they said there used to be another mine close to the village. For this most recent vein, Heru'ur only built the pyramid temple before ordering all the villagers to work the mine. I think he was worried more about getting the ore than a long commute."
Teal'c nodded at the captain's assessment. "The comfort of their slaves would be a minor consideration. The temple would be the priority."
"Especially if they're transporting the naquadah directly onto ha'taks instead of the Stargate." Major Carter added.
"As for the commute, they also had these." Colonel Lewis pointed to the distance, where a group of men could be seen traveling down the road from the direction of the village. They were not moving by foot, but by some kind of gold colored large vehicle that moved swiftly towards them.
Teal' c raised an eyebrow in surprise. "A transport."
Major Carter turned towards him, her features hidden by the heavy hood. "How come we haven't seen these before, Teal'c?"
"They are not often used. Most Goa'uld do not want their magic...their technology in the hands of slaves. They also are not very maneuverable. They cannot turn or handle uneven terrain. They are mostly used for straight passages on flat surfaces."
"So a kind of Goa'uld train?" O'Neill stated. "It looks Engine No. 9 is arriving now."
The transport slowed as it approached the group. Several on board began to prostrate themselves before the "priests." But one raised his head defiantly and regarded the group with skepticism. He hopped off the transport, and it continued on its way, presumably towards the mines. Captain Collins lowered his hood. Once the young man recognized him, his face lit up with a smile.
Captain Collins turned to the others. "It's Sandide. He's the son of the leader of the village, and someone very anxious to see the evil gods disappear."
He began to speak to Sandide in halting tones. Sandide returned the greeting and began to speak rapidly. "We began to fear you would not return. Even more of the Jaffa have gone, taking some of the villagers with them. Only a few still working the mines and the women and children remain."
Teal'c exchanged grim looks with Daniel Jackson. They both knew human slaves were used as battle fodder in a last ditch tactic of the Goa'uld. Daniel turned and explained what Sandide said to the group.
Captain Collins's eyes widened in concern for the young man. "Your father?"
"He was considered too elderly to go."
Captain Collins nodded, relieved, and introduced the rest of the party to Sandide. Daniel Jackson took over most of the communication at that point, with occasional help from Teal'c. While they walked the rest of the way to the village. Sandide further explained what had happened. How more rumors of Heru'ur's demise had trickled through the village after SG-7 departed. A few villagers remained in denial, and volunteered to join Heru'ur's army, but more and more people began to believe the movement Sandide and others had started several months before SG-7 arrived, that Heru'ur was an evil god.
When SG-7 arrived with their own magic and different language, many dared to imagine that Heru'ur was not a god at all. Several refused to go the mines anymore, and there were not enough Jaffa to force them. Many of the priests from Heru'ur's temple left in the gods' vessels in despair to see to the spiritual needs of the faithful. Only a few hundred were left from the few thousand that had inhabited the planet even a week ago.
By this point they had arrived at the village. Sandide's father and the village elders joined them. They looked to the SG teams as if they were their saviors and confirmed Sandide's story. "But now, you will help us, will you not?"
"Yes." Teal'c answered confidently as Daniel Jackson hesitated. His friend shot him a glare, then expanded on Teal'c's statement.
"Well, that depends. We can tell you for a fact that Heru'ur is gone. But our forces are limited against a number of Jaffa. Though not magic, their weapons are powerful."
"The soldiers are so few, they no longer guard the village. Two-tens remain in the protection of the temple with the remaining priests, taking our daily tribute of the holy rock."
Daniel Jackson translated for the others.
"Twenty Jaffa left. They're sure that's all there is?", O'Neill looked rightly skeptical.
Teal'c confirmed the translation. "If we are to believe these elders, O'Neill, that is correct."
"Well, that and a handful of priests," Daniel added.
Teal'c dismissed this. "Priests would not carry weapons."
O'Neill patted his robes. "We do."
"We are not priests, O'Neill."
Teal'c could see O'Neill shifting impatiently under his robes. "What about the naquadah. Any word on that?"
Daniel Jackson turned back to Sandide and his father. "The substance you mined for Heru'ur, our people would make use of it to fight the false gods, but only with your permission."
"If you help us remove the last of the invaders, you are free to have as much as you would wish. We would mine it for you."
One of the other elders spoke up. "So free to give our labor away again? Are we trading one false god for another?"
"No." Daniel Jackson hastened to explain, slipping into English again accidentally. "No. We would never ask you to do something against your will. If we are able to help your people remove the remaining Jaffa, we would accept whatever you give us. Or if you allow us, our people would mine the substance ourselves."
The elders spoke low to each other. Teal'c could tell the one man was still suspicious and resisting, but finally all agreed.
"We accept your proposal, and freely give you what we can. The god's rocks have no meaning to us. We only harvested them to serve him."
Daniel Jackson bowed his head in a gesture of gratitude. "By allowing this, you help us not only fight the Goa'uld here, but on many worlds like this."
Daniel Jackson and Teal'c continued to converse with the elders, explaining that they needed more samples and a better sense of the Jaffa that were left. The elders agreed that Sandide should lead them past the temples to the mines. O'Neill ordered the two members of SG-7 to return to the Stargate and report to Hammond on their progress while SG-1 performed reconnaissance of the mines and temple.
"Besides, I've still got a bad feeling about this with all the Jaffa leaving town. I'd feel better if there was more a presence at the 'Gate in case they decide to come back."
"A bad feeling, Colonel?
"That's why they pay me the big bucks, Lewis."
Lieutenant Colonel Lewis saluted. "Gotta love the American taxpayers, Colonel. Collins, move out."
They traveled by foot. They adjusted their robes as they approached the temple to hide their features better, but no one challenged them as they passed. A few Horus guards could be seen by the temple entrance, but they gave it wide berth and continued to the mines.
The group arrived at the mine entrance. A man came out of the mine, questioning Sandide and looking suspiciously at the four priests flanking him. After Sandide explained why they were there, the young man smiled and nodded, welcoming them further into the mine. They found about thirty men leisurely tossing ore onto the transport who greeted SG-1 with open arms.
Teal'c listened to the miners' stories, feeling confident at this information and pleased he could contribute. He interpreted the probable Goa'uld tactics from their descriptions for the benefit of his teammates. "The Jaffa guard the harvested ore at the temple so as to be within easy reach of the rings in case recalled. It is a desperate measure. Whatever Goa'uld is trying to retain Heru'ur's empire, he is facing defeat at the hands of Apophis or other rival."
The miners' transport was half filled with naquadah, and Major Carter smiled as she took her readings. "SG-7's initial analysis was correct, sir. This vein of naquadah is about the purest of weapons grade we've come across."
"Sandide, Sandide!" A young girl breathlessly tore into the mines. "They have returned. The evil ones!"
Sandide frowned at the intrusion. "What has happened? Speak clearly."
"It was the unnamed one. He returned to the village with new warriors like the cobra, and told everyone Apophis is our new true god." The girl broke down into tears.
"Daniel?" O'Neill waited impatiently.
Daniel spoke almost as quickly as the girl, translating almost without comprehension. "She's saying a Goa'uld called the unnamed one has arrived with Serpent guards and told the people they must now worship Apophis."
"The unnamed one?"
Daniel Jackson shrugged. "Apparently, he's some underlord of Heru'ur's that switched sides to join Apophis, but there's no way I can figure out which one."
Daniel Jackson looked at Teal'c for further elucidation. Teal'c also shook his head. "I am unable to determine which Goa'uld it could be from this little information."
While they had been speaking, the girl finally was able to stop her sobs long enough to speak further.
Daniel Jackson continued to translate, his face paling as he spoke. "He says that after SG-7 returned to the Stargate, this unnamed Goa'uld arrived by some kind of smaller Goa'uld ship, probably an al'kesh from the description. The village elders defied the Goa'uld, they said they knew Heru'ur was dead and they would not follow any more false gods." Daniel Jackson paused and gasped before continuing. "They were executed in front of everyone."
"Oh, God." Major Carter turned away.
"Another ship arrived and started firing. The Goa'uld and Jaffa gave a final warning to obey their new god, then...ringed back aboard their ship and flew off, the other one, sounds like a death glider, gave chase."
Teal'c tensed. "Apophis cannot be allowed to take this planet." These people should see enslavement no more, and if Apophis obtained this naquadah, he would become even more a threat to the system lords.
"I know, Teal'c." O'Neill's voice held a deceptive calm. Teal'c understood the hidden meaning. He needed to follow his leader's guidance. It was hard, he felt responsible for these people, these freed slaves. Teal'c wanted to take action, but he would follow O'Neill's leadership.
Sandide was rocking back and forth, muttering. Major Carter watched the young man, concerned. "What's he saying?"
Daniel Jackson shook his head. "He's saying they should have followed the signs."
O'Neill became instantly alert. "What signs?"
Daniel Jackson got Sandide's attention and asked him to explain. Still upset, the young native began to speak rapidly. Daniel Jackson blinked and frowned, turning to Teal'c with a furrowed brow. "He said the stars foretold this in their fall?"
Teal'c clarified. "He said their future was determined by the stars falling from the heavens the last few nights. It appears he has observed space battles in this system in the night sky."
"Oh, for crying out loud. He couldn't have mentioned this before?"
"Jack, he didn't know it was important."
"Knowing the Goa'uld are fighting on their doorstep is what I consider 'need to know' information, Daniel." O'Neill threw back his hood and ruffled his hair in frustration. "All right, we can't do much with this naquadah now if we're going to have Apophis's Jaffa on our ass. See if the villagers are willing to leave."
Teal'c explained. "We do not have the numbers currently to fight this new evil god. You are now leader in your father's stead. If you are willing, we could take you to another world, one safe from the Goa'uld, where you could no longer be enslaved."
Sandide hesitated, clearly fearful at the prospect of leaving his home. "We will be free of the evil gods?"
"We'll send you somewhere they cannot harm you." Daniel Jackson said with confidence.
"Then we will go with you before the evil ones can take more of our numbers." Sandide nodded his head with resolve. "My father will not have died in vain."
Daniel turned back to O'Neill and nodded his head.
"Okay, campers. Let's get a move on." O'Neill keyed his radio and ordered Lieutenant Colonel Lewis's team to get the people still in the village through the Stargate as soon as possible. He then turned to Major Carter.
"Carter, you and Daniel lead Sandy and his buddies back."
"What about you, sir?"
"If Apophis is here, he can't get his hands on that naquadah. Give me your C-4. Teal'c and I will set charges to blow the mine. If we can't have it, the snakes can't either."
"Jack..."
"You've got your orders. Teal'c and I will be right behind you. Understood?"
Daniel Jackson set his mouth in a thin line and Major Carter nodded grimly. The pair exchanged one more somber look with them before herding Sandide and the rest of his men onto the transport, still half filled with naquadah, and leaving.
"Come on, T. The sooner we do this, the sooner we get out of here." They set to work.
Daniel watched as Sam and Sandide adjusted the controls, trying to milk that much more speed out of the transport. The sounds of explosions became louder all the time, and the miners cringed in fear. Daniel tried to reassure them, explaining they would join their families soon.
Further discussion was limited as an errant blast tore open the ground in front of them. Sandide struggled to maintain control of the transport, but Daniel realized Teal'c was being a master of understatement when he said this contraption didn't maneuver well. The transport tipped forward, everyone jostled together while some of the naquadah spilled over into the road.
"Incoming!" Sam shouted. Daniel ordered the men to get down before cringing himself, instinctively trying to cover Sam as well. Dirt peppered his back and hair as the bouncing transport moved past another explosion.
"The Jaffa are as bad a shot as ever," Daniel shouted to Sam over the percussion of the blasts.
"They're not firing at us." Sam pointed to the sky, and Daniel saw two death gliders firing at each other. The transport was caught in errant crossfire.
"In that case, we should be worried." Daniel shot his teammate a weak smile, which she returned. Sandide adjusted the controls. The vehicle's engine whined at the added stress as they sped out of the battle zone.
After an eternity, the Stargate was visible, the event horizon shimmering like a beacon. SG-7 could be seen under the limited cover of two empty transports by the DHD, protecting the Stargate and exchanging fire with some Jaffa in the tree line several yards away. Daniel saw an al'kesh skimming away, its ring system sealing. SG-7 must not have been under fire long, and if they were not concerned about the open Gate, that hopefully meant it was dialed someplace friendly. He pointed the situation out to Sam, who nodded.
She gestured to Sandide in easy to understand sign language, and with one nervous glance at Daniel, the young man relinquished the controls.
Carter flipped some controls. "You know how to work this?", Daniel asked.
"There aren't many options. Forward, stop, turn." Sam's expression was grim. "When I give the signal, tell everyone to jump ship to the right."
"Sam?" Daniel's eyes widened. He did not like the implications of her order.
She just shot him a glance before concentrating on the controls. Taking a deep breath, Daniel did as she bid. A few minutes later he could make out the individual members of SG-7 crouched behind their cover. Daniel was beginning to feel nauseous. Their transport was weaving erratically, Daniel could see Sam's knuckles on the steering column, barely holding control...if she was keeping control.
He didn't want to break her concentration, but she was getting dangerously close to colliding with the other team. "Sam?"
Sam's voice was barely audible over the whine of the firefight. "Five...four...three...two..."
"Jump!", Daniel shouted, only waiting to see that Sam was coming too before leaping free of the shuddering vehicle. He tumbled into the dirt, continuing to roll for a few moments as pieces of naquadah scattered across the ground around him.
When he got his equilibrium back, Daniel crouched, zat at ready, and looked around. All of the men were scattered across the clearing in front of the Stargate. Some looked stunned. One was vomiting, but none were seriously injured. When he looked in front of him, he could see the transport lying on its side perpendicular to the ground. It had skidded to a stop in the dirt, perfectly aligned between the two other transports to give a continuous area of coverage. A few feet away from him, Sam was struggling to rise, her robes twisted around her in her fall.
Daniel immediately moved to her and checked her for injuries, noting that she was doing the same to him. Aside from a few scrapes, she appeared fine. He smiled and nodded his head towards the transport. "Damn, Sam. You must have aced parallel parking in driver's ed."
She coughed, her movement suppressing a smile, and he realized she was just as surprised it worked as he was. Daniel hoped this meant SG-1's luck was with them-the good "beating the odds to save the day" luck; Daniel tried not to think of the other kind of luck which usually ended up with one or more of them captured, tortured, and/or killed.
Sam said, "You okay?"
"Yeah. You?"
She barely had time to nod before Lt. Col. Lewis came up from Sam's right and clapped her on the back. "Quite an entrance, Major."
"Thank you, sir. The Stargate?"
"Leading to home."
Lewis was already waving the miners to go through. Fearful, they were hesitating, but Capt. Collins was yelling to them, trying to reassure them between firing shots of cover fire. At Col. Lewis's nod, Collins moved to the event horizon and stepped through. After a few more moments of indecision, Sandide appeared to steel himself and leapt through after him. The other miners followed suit.
Col. Lewis was still exchanging situational information with Sam. "Where's Col. O'Neill?"
"Sabotaging the mine, sir."
They dove for cover as a crater opened up just on the other side of the three transports, scattering them again with dirt.
Lt. Evans yelled to the SG-7 commander. "Sir, they've set up a cannon."
"Great, just what we need." Col. Lewis grit his teeth, and Daniel realized with three of them only armed with the shorter range zats, only half the group had firepower that could even reach the Jaffa.
Daniel's knee rolled over a stone as he shifted position. He picked it up, and realized it was a piece of the naquadah...the naquadah that had scattered all around them. "Uh, guys? Is it a good idea to be holing up surrounded by explosive mineral?"
Sam's eyes widened in alarm, then sparked to life. Daniel instantly recognized the look of inspiration. "You've just given me an idea, Daniel."
She grabbed a nearby piece of ore, discarding it before finding a smaller one, barely bigger than a pebble. "Sir, did your packed ordinance come with grenades?"
Lewis beckoned to Lt. Evans, a large man who almost dwarfed Teal'c. "The Major needs a grenade, Lieutenant."
"And tape, sir."
Evans pulled a grenade from his belt and some duct tape from his vest, handing them both to Sam.
Col. Lewis shook his head. "Major, you strapping added firepower is all well and good, but it could easily and quite literally backfire on us."
"I don't think so, sir. It's not refined, and this is not a nuclear weapon. I'm just adding a tad to the explosive force. We've got to take out as many of these Jaffa as we can and hold the Gate for Col. O'Neill."
Col. Lewis glared, but he nodded.
The Jaffa's staff cannon fired again, causing the crashed transport to teeter slightly before settling back in place. Sam stood, but before she could pull the pin, Lt. Evans interrupted.
"Ma'am? I was all American in college."
Sam blinked for a moment before holding out her hand. Evans took the grenade, pulled the pin and heaved it with all his might. Daniel watched through a small gap in the transports as it landed within a few feet of the staff cannon.
A few seconds later, the grenade exploded, the naquadah enhancing its range and force. The nearby trees shattered. The transports shuddered again, but did not collapse on top of the team members. Suddenly the area was quiet; there were no more enemy Jaffa with whom to exchange fire.
Sam turned to the others, her eyes wide, and smeared a smudge on her face. "Well, guess we've field tested the quality."
"Glad you picked the smaller rock, Major. Else we would've been part of that blast ourselves." Col. Lewis shook his head, and Daniel knew they had just added to SG-1's reputation of being both crazy and "damn lucky sumbitches," as one marine once exclaimed.
Daniel scanned the horizon, but could see no more enemy ships over the rising smoke. "Hopefully, they won't send any more soldiers to the Stargate."
Col. Lewis agreed. "I don't want to stick around here for any longer than necessary. We're going to pick up as much of the ore as we can and send it back home. I don't want to be on the receiving end of a blast like that if more Jaffa come and get lucky."
Sam exchanged a grim look with Daniel before turning to Lewis. "Sir, Col. O'Neill and Teal'c have no transport to get back. They'll have to go on foot. It may take too long."
Daniel studied the leader of SG-7. There was no way Daniel was going to leave his friends here, and he knew Sam felt the same, even if she would have to follow the orders of a superior officer like Lt. Col. Lewis. He unconsciously started backing towards one of the two transports still parallel to the ground instead of Sam's perpendicular one, only arresting his movement when Lewis's eyes tracked to him. Lewis merely quirked a smile and nodded towards the transport.
"We'll hold the door open for you, Major, redialing out if we have to. Bring our guys back."
"Yes, sir." Daniel and Sam sprinted aboard the transport and raced back towards the mine.
Teal'c and O'Neill set the last of the charges in the mines, packing them into the walls of the cavern. By doing this, Teal'c felt at peace. Apophis would not use this planet to fuel his quest for more power. No more innocent people would suffer at the hands of a Goa'uld on this world. When finished, Teal'c turned to his friend.
O'Neill said, "Okay that's the last of them. Let's move out, Teal'c, and try and take the short cut."
O'Neill and Teal'c started to move away from the mines at a rapid jog, speed being more advantageous than stealth at this point. Their robes only slightly hampered their movements. They had almost reached the safety of the woods when a harsh voice cried out to them.
"Kree. Tal shal mek."
"Crap." O'Neill muttered underneath his breath.
Teal'c started, surprised by the voice of the Jaffa so close without him sensing them. Hand on his zat, Teal'c began to turn, about to fire, when the figure standing between the two Serpent Guards caused Teal'c to freeze in shock.
"Terok."
"Crap." Jack muttered again. So close. Hopefully Daniel and Carter had gotten to the Stargate by now with the remaining villagers. Jack bit back the bitterness at what had happened to the village elders. Peripherally, he could see the hint of staff weapons pointing out of the bushes; if Jack or Teal'c resisted, they would be cut down immediately.
Jack knew it was a Goa'uld standing between two Serpent Guards by the glow of his eyes. "Jaffa. Chel nok," the Goa'uld snarled.
Two more Jaffa Jack hadn't even seen came forward and grabbed both of them. Surrounded as they were, Jack knew it was hopeless to resist, but he was surprised at how little Teal'c reacted to their capture. He stared straight ahead, straight at the Goa'uld, oblivious to anything else going on around them. Even Apophis usually didn't garner this kind of reaction in his friend. Jack would bet dollars to donuts that this Goa'uld was the one who had put Teal'c through the wringer on the last mission. Crap.
The Goa'uld spoke something unintelligible. Jack glanced over at Teal'c but his friend was still not responsive.
"Sorry, no habla Jaffa," Jack shrugged.
The Goa'uld switched to English. "I thought all priests were trained in the languages of the gods, slave." The Goa'uld's eyes flashed once again as he came forward and pulled down Jack's hood, his movement smearing the black tattoo mark that was already smudged from the sweat from working in the mines.
The Goa'uld reared back in puzzlement. "You are no priest! What are you doing here?"
"Well, you know, it just looked so nice in the brochure."
The Goa'uld ignored Jack and pulled down Teal'c's hood. Teal'c still had no reaction. He was not even looking at the Goa'uld, but at the fixed point where Terok had stood when they were first captured.
Jack did not like this reaction in Teal'c at all, and really didn't like it when the Goa'uld's eyes flashed again, his face breaking out in a grin. "Shol'va! I did not expect to see you, Teal'c. This will be a great pleasure to my lord Apophis. He will be greatly pleased with me. Perhaps he will enjoy renewing your acquaintance as much as I?"
Teal'c only blinked, but Jack saw his body shudder. He didn't think the Goa'uld noticed, because his attention was drawn once again to Jack. "I recognize you now. Jackso...no, O'Neill."
The Goa'uld slapped Jack's face with such force Jack stumbled before righting himself. The Goa'uld merely laughed. "Apophis should be doubly pleased. The Tau'ri and his shol'va pet."
Jack fumed, but was unable to do much with at least three staff weapons pointed at his head. The Jaffa frisked them both, easily finding their weapons and radios. They passed them to the Goa'uld. Jack held his breath as this Terok fiddled with the detonator to the C-4 before tossing it in a satchel with the other devices. As the Jaffa began to march them towards the temple buildings, Jack hoped the rest of his team would figure out what had happened soon, and hoped Teal'c would snap out of his automaton impression.
As Daniel and Sam approached the mines, they noted a number of Serpent guards beginning to move around the area. All attempts at radio contact with their teammates only met with static. The pair abandoned their transport just outside the temple compound and stealthily moved to one of the outbuildings just beside the pyramid. Daniel absently observed it was likely an abandoned guard post. A few bunks and candles were in one room, a table and chairs in another. A storage room to one side held a broken staff weapon, likely the old armory. There was a second floor leading to observation posts, and he pointed out the stairwell to Sam.
She nodded in instant agreement. "We may get a better look of the area."
They climbed the stairs. There was a corridor and a few rooms. One had a large window facing the mines. Daniel and Sam quickly entered the room and looked outside.
It was from there they saw a disheveled Jack and Teal'c being escorted by six helmeted guards and a bare-headed man. Daniel wondered if this was the Goa'uld that had ordered the village elders' death. At least Jack and Teal'c were alive. The Goa'uld wanted them for some reason. Daniel decided not to dwell on what reason at the moment. As he and Sam watched, the prisoners and their escort moved into the pyramid. Once out of sight, the two team members moved away from their hidden perch and exchanged glum expressions.
"Not good."
"No."
Daniel thought quickly, studying their location and the area. It was mostly deserted. Not even many guards except for the ones they saw with Jack and Teal'c and a pair stationed at the other end of the compound. "Well, at least we shouldn't attract too much attention dressed like this."
"You think so? It doesn't seem to have helped the Colonel and Teal'c all that much."
"But they were still in the mines after everyone else had cleared out. It was suspicious. This area's a temple. Priests are common here. We'll be much less conspicuous."
"Okay. Well, we'd better check on the Stargate to know if we still have a line of retreat. Keep your radio tuned to the main frequency in case Col. O'Neill is able to somehow make contact." Samantha fumbled with her robes, and Daniel could hear a brief static in his earpiece as she connected with the unit. There was first a double click, loud, from Sam's radio, then an answering, weaker double click from SG-7. Sam then clicked her radio three times, then twice, then twice again before changing the frequency.
"Sierra Gulf One to Sierra Gulf Seven."
"Sierra Gulf Seven Niner. What's up?"
"Observed Sierra Gulf One Team Alpha apprehended. Status at your location?"
"Remaining refugees have been transported home. We've seen some gliders in a dogfight, but they paid no attention to us. Stargate is still secure. Do you need assistance?"
His ear half tuned to Sam's radio conversation with Colonel Lewis, Daniel became aware of the unmistakable clanking of Jaffa warriors topping the stairwell and headed straight for them. He gripped Sam's arm before she could speak further, his eyes darting in warning to the passage beyond.
"Stand by." Carter whispered into her radio before hiding it back in her robes and grabbing her zat. Daniel was already holding his weapon at ready, priming it before wrapping his arms within his sleeves. Sam copied his movements a second later. They both bowed their heads as two Horus guards entered their chamber.
"Kree. Kel shek?" Stop. What are you doing here? Daniel automatically translated in his head.
Daniel thought quickly. Things were in a large state of flux if Apophis's and Heru'ur's Jaffa were both on the planet. Perhaps answering aggression with aggression would be the best route. The more he acted like he and Sam belonged and the guards were the interlopers, the quicker they may get by.
"We have just delivered homage to our god to give him strength. Should you not be out protecting Heru'ur's holdings from the vile Apophis interlopers?"
The Horus guard stiffened. "Who are you to question our duties?"
"Merely humble priests who wonder if our god will have to smite interlopers himself when his guards lounge while Serpent guards invade our holy sites."
"What invasion? Speak clearly, priest." Both guards became more alert and readied their weapons. Beside him, he felt Sam stiffen but he shook his head slightly. They shouldn't make their move yet.
"Why, we spotted half a dozen Serpent guards through the window just now. How can his loyal guards not know what we can see clearly? Our only hope is that they do not take our lord's holy rock." Daniel gestured at the window with his left hand, careful to keep his right arm holding his zat hidden within his sleeve. "Can you not see? Look there, one still guards the entrance."
The Horus guards clanked over to the window, startled by the appearance of a Serpent guard at a building. Daniel pointed to a building opposite from where they Teal'c and Jack were taken. When certain the guards' attention was focused outside, Daniel nudged Sam towards the door. Hopefully they could use the distraction. While the Horus and Serpent guards fought, they could rescue Jack and Teal'c in the confusion.
Unfortunately, the guards were not distracted enough. Daniel and Sam's escape did not go unnoticed.
"Wait. Stop. This still does not explain why you are alone here in a restricted area without escort. Priests, you will hold."
Daniel sighed. "Plan B," he whispered to Sam. As one, they drew their zats and fired on the guards. The armor clanked as the guards shuddered under the blue electricity and fell to the floor, unconscious.
"Let's get out of here before their friends come along."
"My thoughts exactly."
They once again concealed their weapons and barely made it a few steps before practically slamming into two Serpent guards. The guards immediately charged their staff weapons. Daniel could not believe this coincidence. Well, if the ruse worked once. He backed away to give them room and lowered his head to look meek and unthreatening. Through his lowered gaze he noted Sam doing the same.
The guards were obviously taking in the situation. Two "priests" and two downed enemy Jaffa. Daniel hoped they wouldn't put together this particular two plus two scenario. Maybe, if they were lucky, the ruse would work twice in a row. Daniel just had to watch what he said in this volatile situation. He switched to the dialect used by the locals and took the initiative.
"My lords, forgive your humble servants. We do not know what to do. We have discovered these two fallen warriors. We shall leave them to you and join our people. We only wish to serve the gods."
Daniel thought he may be laying it on a bit thick, but these two were more alert than the Horus guards and he really wanted out of here before anyone else arrived in this Jaffa party. Trying not to be obvious, he tried to back Sam around the pair.
Instead one of the Serpent Guards stepped forward and grabbed Daniel's arm. Luckily Daniel had the wherewithal to release his grip on the zat gun, letting it drop within the folds of his robes.
"Hey." Sam's exclamation cut short. Daniel hoped it was because she realized speaking English was not a good idea, but as he glanced over, he realized unfortunately it was just as likely because of the charged staff weapon pointed at her head.
He tried to mollify the Jaffa closest to Sam before he got too trigger happy. "This young one is not worthy of your attention, lord."
Worried about trying to protect Sam, he wasn't paying attention to his own precarious state until the Jaffa's grasp on his arm hardened, and his hood was roughly pulled off. Perfect. Even if the Jaffa didn't recognize him on sight from the System Lords most wanted list, the makeup on his forehead marked him as a priest of Apophis's rival. Best case scenario, this guard wouldn't be the type to shoot first and ask questions later.
"What are you doing here?!?"
For Part One and disclaimer, go here
For Part Three, go here