Beyond the Other Side
by Gatin Gauntlett

E-MAIL: Beth_supersaint@yahoo.com
STATUS: Complete
RATING: PG-15
CONTENT WARNING: M/F, language, torture, Danny whumping...oh and you should be warned about the use of totally unrealistic science.
CATEGORY: The Other Side AU, missing scenes
SEASON/SEQUEL: Fourth season
SPOILERS: The Other Side, Fire and Water, Small Victories, Nemesis, any with Cassie in (can't think of any more)
SUMMARY:
DISCLAIMERS: All publicly recognizable characters and places are the property of MGM, World Gekko Corp and Double Secret productions. I made no money off the production of this fan fiction and no infringement on copyrights or trademarks was intended. Previously unrecognized characters and places, and this story, are copyrighted to the author. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.
AUTHOR'S NOTES: I really liked the episode 'The Other Side' and I decided to explore its possibilities. You may recognise dialogue from the original episode but used in a slightly different context. Also I'd like to say a huge thank you to my brave beta Ciara Greene who helped made this readable, and to Kerri W who supplied me with medical information. All mistakes are mine though! Enjoy :)
Feedback: Yes please.

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War doesn't determine who is right, only who is left.
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`I shouldn't have to remind YOU that Apophis is alive, and at present, capable of wiping us from the face of this Earth, without contest. It is the mandate of this organization to make sure THAT doesn't happen!' Hammond barked.

`I understand that ... I do.' Daniel said, turning his back on the cruel words. What was it with everyone today? Why was everyone out to argue with him? Trying a different approach he turned back to face the others in the room. `We've only ever seen one side of this ...do we even know why they're fighting?' he asked in his most rational voice.

`For their lives.' Sam answered instantly, exasperation returning to her voice.

`Yes! Yes, and I was all for saving those lives, but we're about to go way, way ... WAY beyond that.' Daniel responded passionately, reminding himself to remain calm. `We're about to turn the tide of a world war we know nothing about against an enemy that we know nothing about. Is that the right way to get their technology? Yes! But ... is it ... the right thing to do?' he asked honestly.

`It's a fair question, Sir.'

`Yes ... it is.' Daniel replied. Hadn't every point he'd made so far been `fair' and `reasonable?' Glancing at the General, then allowing his gaze to rest on Sam, he said `page me when we're about to leave,' trying to keep the bitterness out of his voice; he then turned and promptly left the room leaving the pair and their military morals behind.

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General Hammond watched as the youngest member of SG-1 departed; he could tell something was wrong.

`Major Carter, has something happened that I should be aware of?'

`Sir?' she asked, her attention still focused on Daniel.

`Major, may I see you in my office a moment.' He turned, knowing she'd follow. It took a second for the words to register with Sam, before she reluctantly made her way into the General's office.

`Close the door, Major, and take a seat.' Sam followed the orders and seated herself opposite the General.

`Now, I want to ask you again, off the record, has something happened on this mission that I should be aware of?' the General asked gently; this was SG-1's first mission back since they'd been on downtime and Hammond wanted to ensure everything was running smoothly.

Sam smiled nervously at her CO, what was she supposed to say? That Jack and Daniel had had a huge fight, insulted each other, and now weren't talking to one another? `Well, you know how we work General,' Sam started neutrally, `it's the same old military versus Daniel argument'.

Hammond nodded gravely; he was all too familiar with that particular problem. `Very well, Major Carter, be sure to inform me if things get out of hand. Dismissed.'

Sam sighed in relief as she saluted and left his office.

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Daniel kept his head down, muttering to himself as he approached the infirmary, barely noticing the soldiers he passed in the corridor. He couldn't figure out why the others were so angry with him, all he'd done was to ask some reasonable and obvious questions; questions that Jack should have asked in the first place. There had been growing tension between himself and Jack ever since SG-1 had been reunited after that mission on Thor's ship, Daniel just didn't know why. Had he done something to offend Jack? Something to justify breaking up their friendship? He was sure he was missing something, but what?

But all he wanted right now was someone to talk to, someone that would actually listen to him without shouting him down, and who'd tell him that he wasn't going crazy. He knew he'd find this support from Janet. They'd been dating secretly for a couple of months now, having made the decision to keep their relationship from their colleagues, while they made the transformation from friends to lovers. She'd been there for him whilst the others had been fighting those damn bugs, understanding his feelings of frustration and helplessness that he couldn't be there with them, as a team. TEAM? Daniel almost laughed at the idea; some team they were, first mission back together and look at them.

Shaking his head, he tried to clear his mind and curb the anger he felt building within him as he entered the infirmary. A quick scan revealed that Janet wasn't in the ward; he headed towards her office, and rapped his knuckles on the door, more harshly than he'd intended.

`Come in' Janet voice called from the other side. She glanced up and smiled as he entered her office. `Hey Danny, what're you doing back already?' A frown distorted her features as he closed the door behind him and turned to face her, his body tense, and his face screwed up in concentration.

`Daniel, what's the matter?' she asked as she got up off her chair and walked towards him.

`Jack'. He said quietly `…and Sam, even the General'.

`What about them?' she asked cautiously as she wrapped her arms around his waist, silently offering the support and comfort she knew he needed.

Daniel immediately responded, placing his arms around her, sighing as he gratefully soaked up her presence.

`Jack hates me' he muttered into her neck.

Moving slightly so she could look at his face she asked, `why do you think that?'

`He wouldn't listen to me' catching her look he replied sarcastically, `Okay I know, no real surprise there, but this time it's different.' His frustration started to show, and he released Janet and started pacing the length of her office. `I know he's military to the bone, always has been, but I can't remember a time when he's been more selfish and…cold blooded.' Daniel started gesturing with his hands, `he's taken advantage of an entire race, using them for technology and not giving a damn about the consequences. All I asked was a FAIR question, an essential question and he gets all pissed at me…he even embarrassed Sam, but she's still defending him. I thought I was getting somewhere with the General… but even he threw it back in my face.'

`What happened?' Janet questioned, no longer able to remain silent. She listened to his tirade carefully, feeling his anger fuelling hers. How dare they do this to him, don't they know what he went through worrying about them only a few weeks ago? This is some way to repay him.

`Daniel I'm proud of you,' she declared, after he had finished describing the last few hours to her.

`Huh?'

`I said I'm proud of you,' she repeated, bringing him back to her arms. `You stood up for yourself, asking the questions no one else had the guts to.' Looking him in the eyes she said gently, `I'm sure you remember that whole Nem situation a few years back.' Daniel's shiver was enough to confirm that he did indeed recall the events of that early mission, and she hugged him tighter, soundlessly apologising for bringing up what were still painful memories for both of them. `I don't know how much the others told you at the time, but at your funeral Jack referred to you as the voice and the conscience of the team.' She told him softly as she cupped his face, `I haven't forgotten that even if they have, but more importantly you can't forget it. Just don't give up, okay?'

Daniel's smile was enough to light up the room. `What would I do without you?' he murmured as he pulled her face down for a soft, tender kiss. Before they had time to deepen it, an annoying beeping sound filled the air. Sighing reluctantly the couple pulled apart and Daniel untangled himself from Janet's arms and reached for his pager. The little screen confirmed his fears. `I've got to head back.'

`Hey' Janet said, pulling him back into her arms, giving him a brief kiss before saying, `remember what I said, okay.'

`Okay,' Daniel said reaching for the door.

`I love you,' Janet said softly as he found the handle.

`Love you too.' Daniel smiled back, despite the circumstances as he left the office and headed back towards the gate room. `Might as well get this party on the road,' he muttered to himself as he joined Sam on the ramp.

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`I propose we write down on paper what we all ready share in our hearts.' Alar announced.

It was now or never, Daniel told himself. Clearing his throat loudly he said, `Um, before we do that, I have a question.'

He ignored the look of exasperation Jack shot his way.

`General Hammond would also like to know, Sir.' Thanks Sam, I appreciate the support, where was it earlier?

`It's alright, Colonel. I don't mind.' Alar said. That's mighty generous of him, Daniel thought.

`How did this war start?'

`The first enemy bombs fell upon Euronda in a surprise attack,' Alar recounted, appearing to get lost in his memories, `I was a boy of nine. I remember that night. I remember the floor of the room in which my father sequestered me shook with each explosion ... I remember ... knowing that each bomber got through ... meant ... that another building, another home ... another street in the city above me ... was gone.' He redirected his eyes to Daniel. `That is how this war began, Doctor.'

`And for that ... we only have your word.' Daniel commented, hoping beyond hope the others would get his message. Couldn't they sense something was WRONG with this guy, this whole situation? Risking a glance at Jack, Daniel realised that no, apparently they didn't see what he did. Boy, he really wasn't in Jack's good books today.

`Three of our best men died attempting to reach Earth through your stargate,' Alar shot back.

`Well, that was an accident,' Daniel said nervously, an accident that Sam still blamed herself for and didn't need reminding of.

`And we have only your word.' This time Daniel risked a glance at Sam, who looked guiltily back at him.

`Any more questions, DANIEL?' Jack's voice was quiet and hoarse, practically spitting out his name. Does he really hold that much hatred for me, Daniel wondered? Holding onto Janet's earlier words of reassurance, he avoided Jack's gaze and quickly replied, `Yes. Uh ... I'd like to know a little more about your enemy.' He could feel the atmosphere of the room, tense as Jack closed his eyes, disappointment and contempt written across his face; Daniel chose to ignore it, this was simply too important to be missed.

`Is this part of your…bargaining process, Colonel?' Alar asked Jack in irritation, disregarding Daniel.

`Not normally.' Jack answered with heavy emphasis, keeping his gaze fixed on Daniel and ensuring that his disapproval couldn't be missed by the archaeologist.

`What more can we offer you than everything we have?' Alar asked in disbelief. Daniel could see he just wasn't getting the point.

`Then why don't you just answer the question?' Another harmless and fair question, Daniel silently added.

`Colonel O'Neill? Do we have an agreement?' Alar asked, purporting to be totally oblivious to Daniel's presence.

`We do.' Jack replied firmly. Wha…WHAT? Alarms were going off in Daniel's head. What the HELL is he doing? Doesn't he realise the importance of the answer to this question? Now he's just going too far…

`Jack ...' Daniel immediately protested.

`DANIEL!' Jack cut him off, looking directly at him before he said, `Shut up...is THAT clear enough?'

The room went silent; Daniel jerked, as if he'd been slapped in the face. Lowering his head, he composed himself, unwilling to allow Jack to see how much his words had hurt. Pushing his chair away from the table, he sent a silent apology to Janet, as he stood up; still refusing to look at Jack he said quietly, `excuse me. I don't see the point of my remaining here.' With that, he made his way towards the door.

`But Dr. Jackson. You have not yet eaten with us,' Farrell pointed out.

`I'm not hungry,' Daniel replied quietly before he left the room. As he passed them, he didn't hear the brief conversation Alar had with the two young soldiers that stood either side of him, before they nodded and also left the room.

`Let us celebrate our new alliance,' Alar declared jovially as food was served around the uneasy table.

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Daniel stomped down the tunnel away from the meeting room, not really knowing or caring where he was heading; he didn't know whether to feel more angry or hurt by Jack's behaviour. Deciding hurt was something that could be dealt with more easily back home, he focused on anger.

Who the HELL does he think he is, telling me to shut up? Daniel questioned. He has no right to treat me as if I'm some little kid! Unwanted memories of his oppressed and somewhat abused childhood pushed their way to the surface of his mind. Daniel knew he had to calm down before he went back to face Jack.

He was completely oblivious to the falling dust and debris as he walked out his anger, only pulled from his nightmarish thoughts by a voice behind him. `Dr. Jackson?'

Daniel turned around briskly to see two men he recognised from the earlier briefing. Just brilliant, Daniel thought, Jack probably sent them to find his little lost puppy.

`Dr. Jackson?' the nearest man repeated.

`Yes?' Daniel replied abruptly; he'd be damned if he made their task easy for them. Why couldn't they just leave him alone to work through his feelings?

Approaching him, the slightly bigger one of the pair asked, `You wanted to learn more of our enemy, yes?'

`Yes…' Daniel replied in surprise; they definitely hadn't been sent by Jack.

`We can provide you with much information, if you would please come this way.' He smiled slightly, indicating a corridor to Daniel's right.

`Why can't you tell me here?' Daniel asked slightly suspicious. He didn't trust anyone on this planet at the moment, especially not Eurondans.

`This corridor is unstable. With the amount of…heavy water, you brought the defence shields will not be able to stay at maximum strength for very long.' That definitely smacked of bitterness to Daniel. `If you follow us, we can take you to a much safer room; please, it is just this way'.

Daniel glanced between the two men as he weighed up his options; both were younger than he was, and judging by the arm muscles protruding from their short-sleeved tops, they were much stronger too. So in conclusion, there were two of them, stronger AND younger, therefore most likely faster, who also knew their way around; he guessed he stood little chance of running away from them.

What other option did he have? Maybe he could lose them around the next couple of bends. Reluctantly, Daniel turned and headed down the corridor they had previously gestured towards.

`I am Torment' the smaller of the two said, and this is `Vice'. Daniel gulped. `Torment' and `Vice', this wasn't good. Clearing his throat, as they went through another passageway Daniel asked a little nervously, `Are you aware of the… connotations of your names?'

They looked at him puzzled, in all innocence. `Our names mean little in our culture. Please tell us, do they have other meanings on your world?'

`Ah no…' Daniel wasn't going to put ideas in their heads, `…never mind then…' he laughed nervously, `…just wondering'.

As they turned several more bends and travelled down countless tunnels, Daniel couldn't help noticing that the number of people they were passing was becoming fewer and further between. They hadn't passed anyone for several minutes when they reached a closed door. This is strange, Daniel thought as they stopped outside. He hadn't encountered many actual doors in this complex, just empty doorways; this probably wasn't a good sign.

`We will not be disturbed in this room Dr. Jackson'. Vice said proudly as he reached for the doorknob.

Daniel was aware of Torment standing close behind him, too close; and what did he mean by `undisturbed'? Daniel glanced around the empty corridor as he fearfully pondered the man's choice of vocabulary.

Before he had a chance to vocalise his worries, the door was pushed open. Daniel's fear intensified when he surveyed the small room. The smell of blood, sweat and other bodily fluids, which he didn't care to mention, reached his nose. Unfamiliar weapons lined the shelves and shackles hung menacingly from the ceiling while suspicious red stains were splattered across the walls and a dried puddle had formed on the floor. Daniel couldn't drag his eyes from the horrifying spectacle.

Noticing where he was looking Vice said casually, `Sorry, we didn't have time to clear up after our last guest.' Daniel could feel bile rising in his throat, his heart pounded in his chest as he shivered. Oh crap, this can't be happening, he told himself, almost missing Vice's words.

`This is a perfect place for you to get to know your new enemy' Vice said calmly as if he was introducing Daniel to a neighbour. `This is where they stay if they manage to penetrate the surface. Yes, we know it may appear more logical to let them die from the gas, gas which we ourselves pump onto the surface.' Vice watched as the meanings of his words became clear to Daniel, before continuing, `however, where would the enjoyment be if we chose to do this? It is much more satisfying to kill the breeders this way.'

`Br...Breeders?' Daniel managed to choke out. He couldn't believe this was happening, how could they talk about human life like that? They were responsible for the conditions on the surface? It was too much to take in; his brain was spinning.

`Yes it's how they reproduce. Indiscriminately ... with no regard for genetic purity.' Torment looked as though he'd inadvertently touched something unclean.

Oh crap, this was BAD, very, very BAD. See Jack I told you we should had learnt more about the enemy, this is YOUR fault, Daniel thought, as he was forced further into the room and the door locked behind him.

Just keep them talking, reason with them, pretend to understand them, Daniel told himself, `Really? So ... they come in all shapes and sizes.' He listened to his own words, hoping he sounded suitably shocked.

`Yes.'

`And colours?' Daniel ventured, trying to keep his voice neutral. No wonder they'd been giving Teal'c funny looks; this was crazy.

`Yes!' Came the reply.

`Really?' Well this was just great; he was LOCKED in a TORTURE room, with two BIG guys with EVIL names who had a SERIOUS problem with the way HIS race reproduced, just great. And to think he'd thought Jack was his biggest problem! Great.

`Well…' Daniel continued, `thanks for sharing that with me. I'll just go and share that with my team leader. Now if you don't mind pointing me in the right direction…' He made it two steps towards the door before he found someone blocking his path.

`Oh sorry!' he gasped innocently, `was there something else you needed to tell me?' He didn't even have the chance to blink, as a ham- like fist made contact with the side of his head; caught off-guard and unbalanced, Daniel would have fallen to the ground but for the strong pair of hands that trapped him. His arms were pinned behind him as he was pressed against the wall, his face almost touching the dark red smear.

`Breeder scum,' his captor spat in his ear. `Why do you question Alar? You disrespect not only our leader but also your own. Why must you doubt authority? Your Colonel was content with the exchange, and we are to ensure that you do not try to influence him any further.'

Pulling him away from the wall, Torment spun him around to face Vice, who raised his fist. Fear and desperation bubbled to the surface, and with a burst of adrenaline Daniel allowed his weight to be supported by Torment as he leaned back and with all his strength kicked Vice hard in the stomach with both feet.

Vice stumbled slightly, but didn't quite fall in agony as Daniel had anticipated. SHIT, he was in for it now. Sure enough, Torment threw him back hard against the wall and grabbed him by the neck. Yep, well done Jackson, he told himself as he struggled to breathe, you've managed to piss off two more people, that's what...a total of 8 in a few hours, yep that's gotta be a new record.

The seriousness of the situation came quickly back to him, as Vice approached him and delivered a crippling blow to his stomach. Ow... Torment released him and Daniel fell with a grunt to the cold, stone floor, struggling to catch his breath. He wasn't given long, as a swift kick found his left shoulder, and another drove into his kidney.

More painful blows connected with his back, each causing him to gasp in agony. I only asked a question, he justified to himself before a particularly vicious kick found the back of his head, and merciful blackness enveloped him.

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Jack laughed along with the other Eurondans; he had no idea what was supposed to be funny because ever since Daniel had left he couldn't seem to focus. Damn that kid, Jack thought, why does he have to make everything so difficult? Couldn't he see what they were offering? If they managed to bring all this technology home, Hammond wouldn't be under so much pressure to produce results; couldn't Daniel understand that? Jack had even had Carter recite their standing orders earlier but still Daniel hadn't taken the hint. It would mean no more funding issues; the government would definitely pay more attention...

Jack stopped himself in mid rant when he realised that the whole room had gone silent and expectant faces were turned in his direction. Shit, dammit Daniel, now I'm not even paying attention thanks to you!

`Say again?'

`I asked you if you are a pilot on your world Colonel,' Farrell supplied.

`Oh yeah…that's me…flying here and there,' he replied distractedly. `Carter's quite a pilot herself,' he added, hoping they'd take the bait. Fortunately they did. As the conversation turned to his 2IC he allowed his mind to wander back to one of the other members of his team.

He remembered the look of hurt that had flashed across the younger man's face before he'd left the room. It was his own fault, Jack argued to himself, he just kept pushing. Daniel may not have experienced the things Alar had talked about but Jack had. Damn Daniel, he's the one that's meant to care about other people's feelings, not me; I wonder when we switched roles.

Jack joined in with the closing toast only half listening to the Eurondans making their pledge. He could feel Teal'c's glare on him; great I've got a pissed off Jaffa to deal with as well as a sulking Daniel. An image of Daniel looking like a kicked puppy danced in front of his eyes again. No, he protested, I'm not the villain in Daniel's twisted little play; I only told him to shut up, he needs to grow up.

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Daniel slowly came to with a pounding headache. He tried to remember what had happened... where was he? He definitely wasn't at home, that's for sure. If he were at home, he'd be in a nice, soft comfortable bed. Infirmary? Nope he wasn't lying in a bed of any kind, so that ruled out Janet's. Jack's couch? Wrong again, he wasn't horizontal. Okay, Jackson, think…fell asleep at your desk? Maybe…nope why would his hands be tied above his head if he was in his office? Wait a minute, back track there a second…tied above his head…oh crap. His memories chose this precise moment to resurface.

Shit. Cautiously Daniel opened one eye, only to meet four staring right back at him. Daniel squinted slightly, was it four or did he have double vision? he wondered; who knew where his glasses had ended up?

`He's awake,' he heard someone say.

`So let's continue,' came an answering singsong voice. Crap, that did NOT sound good.

Sure enough, someone grabbed his short hair, brutally forcing him to his feet. His legs wobbled slightly but his arms were thankfully relieved of his weight, the chains no longer biting so harshly into his wrists.

`So Breeder…' Torment started, but Daniel tuned him out, his headache only allowing him to focus on certain words. Breeder? Daniel wondered whether they actually knew he was a breeder or whether this just the biggest insult they had. He hoped it was the latter; if not, his whole planet was in serious trouble.

Watching the lips in front of him move violently, he tried to picture Janet's lips. Oh Janet! Daniel thought dreamily as the talking was replaced with more blows to his battered body. Are you still proud of me Jan? I did what you said, I was the voice, don't blame you though, babe.

Daniel gasped as the strikes knocked his feet out from under him and his arms were once again left with the task of keeping him upright. The metal cut deeply into his wrists and fresh blood trickled down his bare arm. Bare? That thought registered with Daniel. Looking down at himself, he realised that he had been stripped down to his boxers. His body was sporting many different coloured bruises, more than Daniel remembered receiving; they must have continued kicking me when I was out of it, he concluded.

He quickly regained his footing and watched through the fog as Vice took a weapon off the shelf. Looks a bit like a cattle prod, his mind calmly rationalised as it came closer. Vice pressed a button on the side and the device lit up. That's funny, Daniel thought, what kind of cattle prod had an `on' switch? An electric one, the functioning part of his brain instantly replied; double crap.

His fears were confirmed as one end of the appliance was placed against the pale, tender skin at the back of the neck. The pain was instant, it was unbearable; electricity raced through his body, burning each nerve ending.

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`Alar, we'll head back to Earth and see if we can hurry up that heavy water for ya,' Jack said, rising from the table.

`Sir, if you're gonna go back and see General Hammond, I would like to stay here and take a look at their fusion technology,' Carter suggested hesitantly, knowing what mood her CO was in.

`Fine,' he answered taking a sip of his drink. At least one of his team still felt it necessary to ask permission before wandering about on an alien planet; speaking of which he'd better find the absent man.

`It would be my pleasure to show you personally,' Alar said leaving the table, and indicating that the others should follow him.

Jack sighed as it became apparent that Daniel hadn't waited outside the room as he'd hoped.

`Before you go Carter, you'd better help us find Daniel.' Sam nodded and followed Jack and Teal'c. Great just what I need, Jack thought, a game of hunt the archaeologist!

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`AAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGRRRRHHHHHHHHH' Daniel was vaguely aware of a distant scream; it took him a moment to realise it was being dragged from his own dry throat. The pain was too much. As blackness crept around the sides of his vision the device was removed, not allowing him to escape to the safety the darkness offered. The pain was still present, just not as forceful as before.

He couldn't lift his head to see his captors, but judging by the laughter all around him, they were enjoying the show. Suddenly a sharp stabbing pain shot through his left thigh. Opening his eyes, unsure of when he had closed them, he could see the dark trickle of blood running slowly down his leg. Instantly the same pain burnt into the skin below his right shoulder blade. Ow, had he mentioned that this hurt?

A whirring sound filled the room, as another alien machine was turned on. Daniel now couldn't stop his body from trembling. The whirring came closer, sounding like a dentist's drill; it attacked his chest, trying to burrow beneath his skin. Daniel gasped, the pain was excruciating; he twisted helplessly against the chains, sticky with his congealing blood.

The weapon was removed and Daniel became aware that they were speaking again, `…understand…scum…you sorry?' Fingers dug into his chin as he was forced to look at the speakers. Even as he tried to concentrate, the words grew still more blurry and further away.

Suddenly a punch landed to the side of his left eye, the full force of the blow knocking him backwards, swinging on the manacles. Daniel groaned; he didn't need to touch his face to know that his eye would soon be swollen to twice its size.

He grunted again as one of the men jump kicked him in the ribs. CRAP, CRAP and CRAP! This hurts BAD; I've probably got a couple of bruised ribs at least. Trying desperately to catch his breath, he was shocked when a bucket of freezing water was thrown over him. CRAP, have I said CRAP already? He shivered continuously now, as ice-cold drops left the tips of his hair and trailed down his naked back.

Torment came and stood behind him. At least I don't have to worry about the possibility of rape, Daniel tried to reassure himself, after all, they hate breeders. He was unable to finish that line of thought as Torment pressed the drill-like device into the small of his back. OH FUCK, the pain was too much, he couldn't even think. Ow, ow, ow, it felt like it was drilling a hole through his body, leaving a scorching trail behind it.

The pain stopped suddenly and Daniel allowed himself to take a deep, shaky breath; how much more of this could he take? Cautiously he opened his right eye and watched as Vice approached him carrying a metal bar. Wonder what tortures this one's designed for? Daniel thought, waiting for flashing lights or whirring sounds to start. When the bar did nothing spectacular, but rather was simply raised, Daniel had his answer. Nope, no special buttons, just a plain good- old-fashioned beating– just brilliant.

Daniel cried out as the bar hit his ribs, the pain so intense that he was sure he was about to pass out. Another heavy blow found the back of his legs and Daniel heard the sickly sound of his bones snapping. I only asked a question, was Daniel's last coherent thought as he was swallowed up by darkness.

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Damnit where is he? Jack wondered for the tenth time in two minutes. He swore Teal'c was leading them around in circles; why did all these corridors have to look the same? He glanced around at the other members of the search party.

On first examination, Teal'c looked as impassive as ever. However, if Jack had chosen to look closer, he would have detected the subtle signs of concern etched upon the Jaffa's features. Goddammit, Daniel, where the hell are you?

To Jack's left, Alar looked more annoyed than anything. Jack knew the man probably had better things to do than find the linguist who clearly didn't trust him. That's his problem, Jack thought, he's partially responsible for Daniel's disappearance anyway. LIAR, Jack's inner voice instantly retorted, this is all YOUR fault. Ignoring the voice, Jack distracted himself by studying Sam.

Sam looked impatient, she probably wanted to be studying their fusion things, Jack contemplated. Deciding to throw her a bone he said, `Carter why don't you and Alar go play with your toys? Me and Teal'c will find Daniel and drag his sorry ass back to the SGC.'

Sam nodded, feeling slightly sorry for Daniel; she wouldn't want to be the target of Jack's increasing anger.

Jack watched Sam and Alar retrace their steps down the passageway, already in animated conversation about their technological differences. Turning back to Teal'c, who was at a cross-roads, he asked, `Which way?' Teal'c considered this a moment before pointing to the right.

`This way,' he concluded, heading in that direction.

`Ready or not here we come,' Jack muttered following the Jaffa. Teal'c merely cocked an eyebrow and continued down the corridor.

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Daniel slowly regained consciousness, and this time his memories returned more swiftly, however something was wrong. If his memories were correct where was the pain? Why was he lying down? Why wasn't he cold? Why could he still think clearly? Had he been dreaming? …Was he DEAD?

Daniel carefully opened his right eye, quickly followed by the left... hadn't that been swollen? Looking around the room he quickly confirmed that he wasn't dead and hadn't been dreaming; he could see the instruments of torture, the shackles and drying on them, his own blood. Okay, so this was WEIRD.

Suddenly he was grabbed by the arms and hauled to his feet; he now stood face-to-face with Vice and Torment, who were grinning maliciously at him.

`You look a little confused Doctor,' Vice said, his voice dripping with false concern.

`Ah...?' Daniel's mind was reeling. What the hell had just happened?

`Well you weren't dreaming, scum.' Daniel gulped as Torment continued, `I believe you have already witnessed the effectiveness of our medicines; I believe you were so impressed with the beta-cantin you wanted to take some home to your world?' Smiling, he held up a small black device. `Let me introduce you to our Med-Eley. This device has the ability to heal all injuries, leaving no lasting marks.' His smug smile broadened with Daniel's growing confusion.

Okay, Daniel thought, now I know how I was healed, but why? He didn't have to wait long for the answer.

`This is a warning to you Doctor,' Vice said, standing uncomfortably close to Daniel. `You've got ten minutes to find your leader and apologise for your earlier behaviour...' Apologise? What was this creep talking about? If anyone was going to apologise it was going to be Jack. Before he had a chance to point this out, Vice continued talking, `…you will explain to him that you are now knowledgeable about our enemy and wish to help us win this war. You will then remain silent, speaking only when encouraged to do so, and everything you do say will be positive towards our new alliance.'

`And if I don't?' Daniel asked stubbornly, not about to be bullied into killing thousands of innocent people.

As though in answer, blinding pain shot through his body, his legs were unable to support him and he collapsed into a trembling heap on the floor. His head pounded and he found it hard to breathe as earlier bruises on his body made themselves felt.

Just as suddenly as the pain came, it disappeared. Shakily Daniel stood up, marvelling at how his legs could once again support his weight.

`I apologise, Dr. Jackson, I must have neglected to mention to you earlier that the Med-Eley technology may also be operated on a timer.' There was no hint of apology in Vice's voice as he continued. `It's been set on a remote control timer for ten minutes. If you have not done what we have asked of you, within the allotted time, your pain will return, even worse than when it left you. However, if you comply with our requests, which I am sure you will, the pain will not reoccur.'

Vice opened the door allowing fresh air into the stuffy room. `Ten minutes, Dr Jackson; you will be watched.'

Daniel only paused long enough to glance at the two men, before he quickly ran out of the room. He darted back along the tunnel, hoping beyond hope that he was heading in the right direction. His heart was pounding louder than his footsteps as they hit the stone floor.

Have to find Jack, Daniel told himself, he'll help me, he'll know what to do. He didn't know what Jack's attitude had been about earlier; hell, he didn't want to know, but he knew instinctively that Jack was still his friend, or at the very least his team leader; he'll listen to me, he HAS to, Daniel reasoned as he turned another bend.

Finally, at an end of a passageway Daniel spotted Teal'c and relief washed over him.

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Teal'c saw Daniel approach and shouted,

`O'Neill, I have located Daniel Jackson,' pointing a finger directly towards the anthropologist. Moments later a seriously pissed Jack O' Neill came into view.

`Where the HELL have you been?' he asked angrily, standing face-to- face with the youngest team member; it had been a good half an hour since Sam had left.

`Jack…you've…gotta…' Daniel managed to say between pants.

`Daniel I don't want to hear it.' Jack cut him off, not wanting to listen to his excuses. Turning away from Daniel he said, `Teal'c go and find Sam, tell her we've found Daniel and see if she's finished playing with her fusion things; we'll meet you at the stargate.' Teal'c looked over the new-found linguist, pleased that he seemed unharmed, before he nodded and left, leaving them alone.

`Jack…' Daniel tried again, this was important.

`Ah ah ah' Jack said waving a finger in his face. `Do you know how irresponsible it is to just walk away, telling NO-ONE where you're going? We were about to go back to Earth and get Hammond to organise a search party,' Jack lectured, just getting into his stride.

Daniel glanced at his watch, he had seven minutes left, there wasn't time for this. Regrettably, Jack noticed his actions.

`Don't look at your DAMN watch when I'm talking to you. Are you listening? This is important!' Jack couldn't believe the nerve of this man. `I'm not speaking just `cause I like the sound of my own voice ya know.'

`Jack, you need to…' Daniel started, placing his hand on Jack's arm; he had to make him listen. Unfortunately, Daniel had underestimated just how frustrated Jack was. In one swift move, Daniel found himself, yet again, pressed against a wall.

`Don't push me Daniel,' Jack hissed before suddenly releasing his hold on the linguist, shocked at his own actions. Glancing at Daniel, Jack winced as he saw his look of shock reflected in the younger man's face. Shit, way to go Jack, just add assault to your list of many talents.

`Sorry,' Jack said, calmer now, `I don't know where that came from.' Without waiting for Daniel to respond, Jack continued towards the stargate; they could sort this out at home.

Daniel watched Jack's retreating form, a little stunned by the scene. Jack had threatened him and apologised to him within the space of a minute; Daniel couldn't work out which was the more strange. He quickly trotted off in the direction Jack was heading, not wanting to be left alone on this planet again; he'd learnt his lesson the hard way. At least I'll be home soon, Daniel thought. Janet would help him.

Glancing at his watch, he grimaced. Just over five minutes left. Crap. As he caught up with the team leader, he replayed Jack's earlier words in his head; he was irresponsible? Jack was the one who got them into this mess because he couldn't be bothered to ask a few questions. Daniel had always trusted Jack's command before, despite what he had told Makepeace; but now, to be honest he wasn't so sure…

When they reached the DHD, the two men stood in an awkward silence. I've got to tell him what happened, Daniel thought anxiously.

Jack glanced at Daniel. You've gotta talk to the kid at some point, he told himself, it might as well be now.

`Jack…'

`Daniel…'

The names were spoken at exactly the same moment. Before either had the chance to continue, the sound of a loud explosion filled the air.

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Teal'c had succeeded in locating Sam and informing her that Daniel had been found well; now the pair walked casually side by side, through the numerous tunnels, as they made their way towards the stargate.

`He claims one single fusion reactor is capable of generating power for this entire facility,' Sam commented. `When we come back he's gonna help me figure out a way to transfer information on their technology into our computers.'

`That is part of the agreement, Major Carter,' Teal'c pointed out.

Sam nodded distractedly before continuing. `He showed me the blueprints to this place Teal'c, and something doesn't quite add up; I just can't put my finger on it ya know?' Sam asked, not expecting a response. After a brief pause, she continued, `So, what's your impression of Alar?'

Teal'c glanced at her; there were several words in that speech which didn't quite make sense to him. Why was the print blue? How could she expect to put her finger on something that was not physical in nature? Nonetheless, he had caught the last question and replied, `That he is concealing something.'

That got Sam's interest. `Like what?' she asked.

`I am not sure' Teal'c admitted, confused, `he is concealing it.'

Before Sam had the chance to comment on the helpfulness of that reply, the ground rocked with the force of an explosion up ahead. Quickly, they broke into a run, and headed straight for the stargate. They stopped in front of it in consternation; instead of the DHD stood a barricade of rocks.

`Where was the Colonel meeting us?' Sam asked dismayed; she had to tell her CO what had happened, warn him that they would have to unbury the DHD before they could go home. Well if this doesn't improve his mood, I don't know what will, Sam thought glumly.

`We are to meet them here, Major Carter.' Teal'c replied, a hint of apprehension creeping into his usually steady voice.

Sam looked shocked, `you serious? Oh no!' grabbing her radio Sam barked into it, `Colonel can you hear me…?'

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`Get down!' Jack shouted as he and Daniel ducked down beside the DHD. Large stones fell as small explosions could be heard nearby. After a few seconds, the avalanche stopped, and silence settled around them.

Jack was the first to brave standing up, looking around at his surroundings. A wall of rocks now separated them from the stargate. Another similar wall had appeared behind them, enclosing them in the small DHD room. Glancing up, Jack noticed that a dim glow was provided by the tunnel's emergency lighting. He became aware of Daniel rising beside him.

`Well this is just great!' Jack commented after checking out the makeshift walls for any sign of weakness. Pulling out his radio he called into it, `Carter, Teal'c can you hear me?' To no one's surprise, he got no reply.

`Sam and Teal'c will find us,' Daniel muttered distractedly, before sitting down on the floor. Any minute now and the pain would return; Daniel knew that when that happened, his broken leg wouldn't be able to support him.

Jack joined him on the floor a moment later noticing Daniel's anxiety; the kid was practically hyperventilating. Jack took pity on him. `A little claustrophobic, Daniel?' he asked gently, the earlier harshness nowhere to be found.

The archaeologist looked up at Jack earnestly. `Jack I need you to listen to me for a moment,' he said seriously. Time was running out; he didn't need to look at his watch to confirm that.

Jack looked him in the eyes and nodded; he knew they needed to clear the air between them. It was fifty-fifty as to whether Daniel would apologise to him or yell at him. He was totally unprepared for what came out of Daniel's mouth next.

`I've been tortured Jack,' Daniel said, breaking eye contact, finding it easier to stare at the dust falling to the floor.

`Excuse me?' Jack asked, not really sure he was hearing this.

`A couple of the Eurondans followed me when I left the briefing. They led me to this room and beat the crap out of me.' Daniel shuddered violently, to Jack's great discomfort. `They had all kind of weapons… it hurt like hell,' he paused, trying to keep his voice from breaking.

Jack was shocked; he didn't know what to say. He slowly ran a sceptical eye over his friend; he wanted to believe Daniel but where were the bruises, the healing scars? Jack knew from experience what physical, and emotional, scars were left behind after being tortured.

As if reading his thoughts Daniel commented, `They had some special healing device.' Seeing Jack's confused look, Daniel continued, `It was a warning Jack. They didn't want me to put you off this deal; they did tell me all about their enemy though.' Daniel laughed bitterly.

Jack gulped, this was sounding worse by the second.

`What about them?'

`Their enemies are called `Breeders' Jack. They're trying to eliminate cultures that sexually reproduce. They're wiping out an entire race of people; people like you and me.'

Jack swallowed hard, `Shit! I'm sorry Daniel, I should have listened to you…'

`Yes you should have.' Daniel cut in, `but I need to tell you something else.'

`What?' What else could there possibly be to say?

`You know that healing device I was telling you about?' Daniel continued not waiting for a response, `well it was set on a timer so any second now…' Daniel didn't get a chance to finish his sentence as pain shot up his veins.

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Teal'c and Sam anxiously waited, and after a few seconds of silence Sam tried again, more urgently this time.

`Colonel, Daniel, please respond.'

Just at that moment, Alar and a group of Eurondans came up behind the pair, surveying the scene in front of them.

`An enemy bomb penetrated our defence field,' Alar announced, `a counter attack is now taking place in the war room. Where is Colonel O'Neill, we were hoping he would help to pilot one of our planes?'

Sam looked at the pile of rubble. `We think he's trapped under there, along with Daniel and the DHD. You've gotta help us rescue them.'

Alar dismissed this with a shake of his head, `It can wait until we've finished our attack, our enemy must not think that we are too weak to seek revenge.' With that, he turned as though to head back to the centre of the action.

Teal'c and Sam moved quickly, Teal'c blocking the leader's path and Sam grabbing his arm. `I don't think you understand me,' Sam said trying to keep the desperation out of her voice. `Two of my team are trapped under there!' Seeing that Alar didn't look particularly concerned, she tried another tactic. `…As is the DHD; without that you won't be getting any more heavy water.'

That seemed to get through to him. He risked a glance at Teal'c who looked back steadily; it was glaringly obvious to Alar that it wouldn't be easy to get past him.

`Very well,' Alar said, before turning back to his men. Grudgingly, he barked some orders at them and they disappeared. `They will return shortly with suitable implements to penetrate this barrier. In the meantime I must go and supervise the attack.'

Sam nodded and Teal'c moved out of Alar's way; the two men glared at each other as he pushed past. Watching his retreating back, Sam asked, `wasn't there another entrance to the room that the DHD was in?'

`Indeed there was,' Teal'c replied.

`Let's find it; if it's also blocked the wall may be weaker.' Teal'c nodded and quickly led her towards another corridor.

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`Daniel!' Jack shouted, quickly scrambling over to his injured friend. `Oh crap Danny,' O'Neill said softly, taking in the extent of his friend's injuries. `What did they do to ya huh?' Jack knew that his question would go unanswered as Daniel collapsed against the wall, softly moaning.

Jack quickly searched through his pockets until he came across the small first aid kit that he insisted each of his team carried. Silently he cursed not having taken his pack with him; with the extent of Daniel's injuries, he'd need a lot more than the two micro MedKits that they had between them. Opening the small box, he pulled out a foil packet containing a single dose of aspirin.

`It's gonna be okay Danny' Jack comforted him softly, `I'm gonna give you something for the pain, just hold on okay.' Daniel nodded slightly.

`I need you to swallow this pill, can you do that for me?' As Daniel nodded again, Jack took in the look of determination in his deep blue eyes. Good on ya buddy, he thought grimly, as he placed a tablet into Daniel's mouth and held a water bottle to his lips, encouraging him to take a small sip. `It's gonna take a while to kick in, just give it time.' Jack no longer knew if he was reassuring Daniel or himself, as Daniel closed his eyelids.

`First stop the bleeding,' Jack said quietly, glancing over his patient; noticing that most of the blood was coming from Daniel's left leg, Jack unsheathed his knife. Carefully he sliced through Daniel's left pant leg, now stained nearly black with blood.

Cursing quietly at the mess, Jack reached back into the first aid kit, pulled out some disinfectant wipes. Gently, he cleaned the deep wound, trying not to retch as the white bone was exposed beneath his ministrations. `You may need stitches in here,' Jack commented. When he received no reply he risked a glance at the younger man; the sheen of perspiration on his pallid face, coupled with the rapidly developing bruising, was not particularly encouraging. `Danny you still with me? Guess not,' Jack muttered as Daniel's only response was his shallow, raspy breaths.

Gingerly, Jack placed a steripad over the sickly wound and taped gauze on. Satisfied that the bandage wasn't going to fall off any time soon, Jack shifted his attention to the top half of Daniel's body. He'd strap Daniel's obviously broken leg after he'd checked for more bleeding. `Gotta prioritise,' he told himself, desperately trying to remember every modicum of medical training he had received since joining the air-force, before continuing in a slightly louder voice. `Let's see if they only picked on your legs, Danny-Boy.'

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Staring at an identical wall of rocks and debris Sam asked in dismay, `Are you sure this was the other entrance?'

`I am,' Teal'c replied gravely. `There must have been a direct hit above the DHD room.'

`Daniel! Colonel!' Sam shouted, only to be echoed by Teal'c's deep boom.

`Damn it,' muttered Carter as her words reverberated around the room.

Teal'c stepped forward, examining the newly created partition. `The framework of each of the room's doorways must have been extremely weak,' he stated after a moment. Following some wires that disappeared behind the barricade he added, `it would appear however that there is sufficient illumination.'

Sam nodded. `At least that's something. I suppose we'd better head back to the stargate and wait for Alar's men.'

Teal'c agreed and started to head back.

`Man, I hope they're still alive' Sam hopelessly looked at the wall one last time before turning to follow her team mate.

`It would appear that the avalanche occurred at either end of the room due to it's inefficient design; the room, along with these tunnels, was intended as a temporary measure. However, the Eurondans appear to have taken great care maintaining the ceilings and structures; therefore, I believe that both Daniel Jackson and Colonel O'Neill are alive, have lighting, full water bottles and an adequate supply of air.'

Sam nodded, `I sure hope so. At least neither of them had any injuries before they got trapped; let's hope they didn't receive any from the cave-in.'

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Dismayed, Jack realised that Daniel's legs were not his worst problem, as he slowly lifted up the archaeologist's t-shirt. His stomach and rib cage were badly bruised, and the violent purple colour appeared to be spreading across his abdomen. `Dammit Daniel, you've probably got some broken ribs in there,' he commented. `Let's pray you haven't got any internal injuries.' Daniel's pained gasps were his only response.

Lifting the shirt slightly higher he found a few strange painful looking marks, but nothing he knew how to treat.

Very gently, Jack leaned Daniel slightly forward, away from the wall he had slumped awkwardly against, so he could see his back. Sure enough, blood was starting to soak through his jacket, just below his right shoulder blade.

Rifling through Daniel's pocket, Jack came across numerous candy bars before he found his friend's first aid kit. `If you're eating this many candy bars per mission Danny…' Jack started, opening the pack and removing the cotton pad and bandage, `…you'd better not expect me to carry you home!'

Gently easing him forward, Jack manoeuvred himself between the wall and his friend. `It wouldn't be good for my knees,' Jack continued conversationally as he cut a slit from the collar to the shoulder blade. `…or my back,' pulling down Daniel's clothing in order to dress the wound.

Moving yet again, Jack gently placed Daniel back against the wall, afraid to disturb the younger man's ribs. He then dressed Daniel's cut and bleeding wrists. `Now back to your legs, Dr. Jackson.'

Jack glanced at Daniel's face, grimacing at his friend's condition. He was breathing shallowly and his face had taken on an unnatural pallor, in contrast to his left eye, which had practically swollen shut. Poor kid, Jack thought, guilt eating away at him, as he took in the size and colour of the bruise.

Now out of bandages, Jack removed his own t-shirt, `Just as well I'm not the modest kind, eh kid?' Jack joked as he started tearing the bottom of his shirt into shreds. Scanning their temporary accommodation, Jack spotted a pile of wood in the far corner. Quickly making his way over to it he selected two longish sticks. `I've found something I can strap your leg to,' Jack called as he made his way back to Daniel.

Carefully, Jack strapped his makeshift splint to Daniel's leg with his strips of t-shirt. As he worked, Daniel made small groaning sounds in his sleep; Jack winced in sympathy.

Dressing himself in what was left of his t-shirt, he placed his jacket over the sleeping man; Jack was careful to keep it in position as he repositioned himself behind Daniel, allowing him to sleep against his chest. Wrapping his arms loosely around Daniel's shoulders Jack murmured strings of soft, reassuring words to his friend; he knew it would be of little comfort, but it was all he could offer him for the moment.

Daniel's pain-filled gasps filled what remained of the room where the DHD stood. Jack closed his eyes; unable to distract himself any longer, he was forced to face his own feelings of guilt and remorse.

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Sam and Teal'c made it back to the stargate, just moments before five of Alar's men appeared. With them, they carried an assortment of equipment.

`What's all that?' Sam asked, as one of the men started distributing the tools between the small group.

He gave her a quick glance as he answered, `this is the equipment needed to overcome such a problem.'

Teal'c studied the silver, flashing devices the men held. `How will these help rescue our friends?' he enquired.

The man looked Teal'c up and down, barely able to keep the disgust off his face. `We will set up the gamma-field-distributor directly in front of the wall we wish to remove; then we must cover the wall with liquid cantin to prepare it. When the distributor is turned on it will emit high-pitch rays, which will slowly disintegrate the wall that is standing between us and the DHD.'

`That is not satisfactory,' Teal'c replied, surprising the Eurondans and Sam.

`It's not?' Sam asked.

`No. If either Daniel Jackson or Colonel O'Neill are directly behind that wall, they will also be hurt.' Teal'c turned an accusing glare to the Eurondans. `Is this not correct?'

`Yes,' replied the of the Eurondans calmly, `however, Alar feels this is an acceptable risk, considering what is at stake.'

`Well we don't,' Sam cut in.

`There must be an alternative solution to the problem,' Teal'c supported her.

The Eurondans muttered amongst themselves, until someone stepped forward. `There is indeed another option, however it is time- consuming, and heavy water is needed quickly.'

`What's the method?' Sam asked impatiently.

`The same as that already described to you by Calvad; however, in this instance the liquid cantin is placed only on one spot, forming a hole in the wall, through which you will be able to communicate with your team.'

Sam looked at Teal'c for his approval; he nodded, giving her all the encouragement she needed. `Okay, so let's do it.'

`We must first locate Alar and seek his permission.'

`No,' Teal'c said firmly. `You yourself have said time is short. In locating Alar you will waste more time that we do not have.' Glaring down at the man he continued steadily, `please proceed with the gamma- field-distributor.'

There were a few murmurs before the group reluctantly began setting up. Sam looked over at Teal'c who shared a knowing smile with her; boy was she glad that the Jaffa was on her side!

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`J'ak' Daniel croaked quietly, waking up; he hurt all over.

`I'm right here buddy,' came the firm voice behind him.

Daniel relaxed slightly. Jack was here, he'd help him. Help with what? his inner voice asked, apparently just as confused as the rest of him.

`Wh't…' Daniel managed to get out; it took so much effort just to say that much. He hoped Jack was well clued up in patient lingo. If not, maybe he could take lessons off Janet when they got back; that thought almost made him smile.

`What happened?' Jack ventured. Daniel nodded slightly, relieved; cancel those lessons.

`You were tortured by Alar's men. Then there was an avalanche and now you and I are trapped. Do you remember?'

Daniel nodded slowly; he vaguely recalled an explosion near the DHD and rocks falling.

`I've given you something for the pain, so it should be bearable. Do you think you can manage a bit of water?' Daniel contemplated this for a moment before nodding, deciding his throat was indeed dry.

Jack picked up his water bottle that was on the ground beside him. `Here we go,' Jack said softly as he tilted the opening against Daniel's waiting mouth. `Small sips, Danny,' Jack reminded him; he didn't want Daniel to choke because that would make him cough, which in turn would make his ribs hurt like hell.

After a couple of sips, Daniel signalled that he'd had enough. Jack removed the bottle and screwed its top back on, before he replaced it on its previous spot on the ground.

`I've patched up what injuries I can, we'll leave the rest to Janet's talented hands.'

Daniel smiled and before his hazy brain could stop him he said, `Jan't got very talent'd hands Ja'k.' He felt Jack chuckle behind him.

`Daniel just what are you implying?' Jack asked smiling; it felt good to be teasing the linguist again.

Daniel continued, seemingly oblivious to Jack's question, `nice lips too…'

That got another laugh from the older man. `And just how would you know Dr. Jackson?' He was glad of any topic that would take Daniel's mind off the current situation, however ridiculous it was.

That question registered itself in Daniel's mind; why wouldn't he know? They had been dating for a while now; he decided to point this out to Jack. `Cos we're dating.'

`Oh...' Jack didn't know what to say; it was news to him, `since when?'

`Coupla months…' another fact pushed it's way to the front of Daniel's foggy mind, `it's a secret though.'

`Why's that?' Jack asked, trying to sound casual. He knew he'd been treating Daniel badly since he'd come back from the whole Thor issue, but he hadn't realised just how much it had affected their relationship.

There had been a time when he'd known practically everything that was happening in the younger man's life, when he would come straight to Jack to talk about any problems. Jack hoped that the damage was repairable; he missed talking to Daniel and knew he needed him in his life. Just look how I screwed this up, Jack thought, yet again chastising himself for not listening to Daniel's warnings.

Daniel's brow furrowed in thought, which turned out to be painful for his left eye. `Can't `member,' he muttered. Slowly he reached his left hand up, intent on investigating the extent of the damage to his face.

Jack captured his hand before it reached its destination, holding it prisoner within his own. `Leave it, Danny. It's swollen and looks real painful.' Hoping to distract the archaeologist, he decided to steer the conversation to a happier topic. `So is this some elaborate plot so you can spend more time with Janet?'

A smile tugged on the corner of Daniel's split lip. `No. I don't need excuses anymore.'

`Anymore?' Jack teased, `so all those times in the past when we thought you were just accident prone, it was all a ploy?' he laughed softly at the idea.

`A few broken bones, is a small price to pay to be able to spend time with Janet,' Daniel informed him smiling; he'd missed Jack's teasing, although Daniel wouldn't admit that to him.

`Gee that's real deep Daniel!' Jack chuckled, `what did you do to seduce her? Ask her to examine your tonsils?'

Daniel couldn't hold it back any more, it felt too good joking with Jack again; he had his best friend back. Daniel started laughing, only to gasp in pain as his ribs protested violently.

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Sam and Teal'c silently watched the men work. It wasn't long before they had the distributor set up. One of the men produced a container and sprayed a colourless liquid onto a small space in the wall, staining it green.

`Hey!' Sam protested, `that's too high up, we won't be able to see them.'

Calvad turned to face her; the irritation on his face was not missed by Sam.

`The process cannot be carried out any lower Major; this is the safest level for a small hole.'

`Okay then.' Sam said, feeling a little foolish, `what now?'

As if in answer, Calvad, reached forward and pressed a switch on the side of the device; a soft humming filled the room.

`How long does this process require?' Teal'c asked.

`Due to the size of the hole we are making, the distributor should not take very long. Between 3-5 minutes.'

`I guess we just wait then.'

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`Easy Danny' Jack warned, `take shallow breaths.' After a few moments, Daniel seemed to calm down. `There you go,' Jack soothed, `we won't be making you laugh again any time soon…I didn't hear a protest against smiling though.'

Daniel moved his head carefully in agreement with Jack's words; his head was clearing slightly. `So tell me more about Janet,' Jack suggested softly, `that seems to make you smile!'

Daniel grinned slightly in agreement, but didn't comment further.

`So is it serious?' Jack probed, `does Cassie know?'

`Yes to both of `em' Daniel murmured.

`So why didn't Cassie tell me?' Jack enquired.

`Sworn to secrecy.'

`Ah…so…how serious is it?' Jack realised that he really wanted to know; he needed to understand his friend again. If something was important to Daniel, then it was gonna be important to him.

`Very,' Daniel supplied, happily. `I really love her Jack.'

`Wow. I don't know what to say. I'm really happy for ya.' Jack then grew serious. `I'm sorry you felt you couldn't share this with me before, I'm been an asshole recently.' His confession was made easier by the fact that Daniel couldn't see his face.

`It's `kay Jack.'

`No it isn't. I should have been there for you; I haven't been much of a friend to you recently. Hell, I didn't even know you liked her, let alone loved her.'

`We haven't told anyone.' Daniel pointed out quietly; now he was starting to feel guilty. `It's nothing personal Jack.'

`Cassie knows,' Jack protested, pouting.

`We had to tell her,' Daniel informed him. When he was met with silence a blush crept onto his face as he decided to continue quickly, `she walked in on us making out in the kitchen in the middle of the night, we kinda had no choice.'

That brought a smile to the older man's face, `Why ya old dog Jackson!' Jack chuckled softly, `I can imagine the look on your face when Cass walked in; poor girl, probably scarred for life.'

`Hey!' Daniel protested weakly. `You know if it'd been you walking in on us, I would've told you too.'

`If I'd been walking around the Doc's house in the middle of the night I doubt you'd be the one doing the explaining,' Jack pointed out dryly.

`Guess not' Daniel murmured.

`Ya know if you want, I could look after Cassie some weekend, lend you my log cabin; it'd be a great place to propose…' Jack suggested smiling.

`Maybe…' Daniel said thoughtfully.

After a couple minutes had passed and Daniel still hadn't spoken Jack decided to break the silence. `Penny for your thoughts.'

`Just thinking about what you said.' He wasn't exactly forthcoming with information.

`About the cabin? You can have it any time, you don't have to propose if you don't want to,' Jack teased, `just relax and get away from it all.'

`But about proposing…' Daniel trailed off.

`Hey, I was kidding. Marriage is a big step.'

`I know.' Daniel sighed, `It's just that after Shau're died…I didn't think I'd ever feel this way about anyone again.'

Jack silently cursed himself; he was trying to take Daniel's mind off his pain, not bring a bunch of painful memories to the surface.

`But I do love Janet, Jack' Daniel continued, oblivious to the Colonel's guilt. `I've thought about proposing to her.'

`You have?' Jack asked surprised; the kid hadn't been kidding when he'd said it was serious. `But you've only been dating a coupla months.'

`But I've known her for four years Jack. I've been her colleague and her friend for four years;' Daniel sighed, `I've seen her courage and loyalty and dedication. I know HER Jack, the doctor and the person… why wait another four years? Especially in our line of work.'

Jack smiled; despite what he'd thought earlier, Daniel had grown up so much over the past four years. He'd lost most of his boyish innocence, despite the hand fate had dealt him. `If anyone deserves happiness, it's you Danny,' Jack said sincerely.

Daniel was surprised with the honesty he heard in Jack's voice. He wished he could see the older man's face. Daniel realised that despite the circumstances, he hadn't felt this happy and relaxed for the last few weeks.

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Teal'c and Sam stared intensely at the equipment in front of them, willing it to hurry.

After a few minutes the humming increased suddenly, startling Sam and causing her to jump; Teal'c, who always appeared alert, didn't even bat an eyelid.

Calvad stood up from his position on the floor.

`Please avert your eyes' he said, then without waiting to ensure they had followed his instructions he pressed another button on the framework.

The two SGC members looked away just in time as a bright white beam hit the green spot on the wall, moments before a small explosion was heard.

The remaining four Eurondans arranged themselves around the equipment, as they moved it aside, making room for the anxious pair.

`Colonel? Daniel?' Sam shouted.

The tunnel fell silent; everyone waited for a response.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Silence fell between the two men, each lost in their own thoughts. Daniel gazed at the far wall, trying to picture Janet as his wife and Cassie as his kid; could he really see himself as a dad?

Suddenly part of the wall disappeared. Daniel blinked, afraid he was seeing things.

`Ah, Jack?'

`Yeah, I see it Danny,' The colonel replied, just as puzzled.

A moment later, Sam's concerned voice drifted through to them.

`Colonel? Daniel?'

Relief washed through them as Jack called back, `We hear you Carter.'

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

The echo of relief rushed through the other half of the SG team.

`Are you and Daniel Jackson well O'Neill?' The Jaffa asked the inevitable question.

The relief was short-lived as the Colonel's hesitant voice reached them, `Um…not exactly.'

`What's wrong?' Sam called, frustrated at the position of the hole as she strained to get a glimpse of them.

`Daniel's been hurt pretty badly.'

`Have not…' came Daniel's stubborn retort; his voice, though loud, seemed strained to Sam's ears.

Jack continued as if Daniel hadn't interrupted him. `He's got a broken leg, a battered rib cage, stab wounds…do ya get the picture?'

Sam glanced worriedly at Teal'c, doing the calculations in her head. He must have lost blood and with an injured rib cage, there was the possibility of internal injuries, a concern that Jack had decided not to voice.

`How could the cave-in have produced such injuries?' Teal'c asked, directing his question at O'Neill but looking at Sam; she looked back at him, confusion now joining the concern that was etched upon her face.

`Long story,' came the reply.

`We're gonna get you out of there sir, but it may take a while. Just stay away from this wall.'

`We won't be going anywhere!'

Directing her gaze back at the Eurondans, Sam said, `What are you waiting for, they've got an injured man in there!'

The Eurondans shared confused looks with one another. Taking her question literally one replied, `we must allow the wall's temperature to drop and its molecules to become stable once more.'

`How long will that take?' Sam asked, panic creeping into the edge of her voice.

`An hour,' Caved replied calmly. `We will report to the war room to allow that time to pass.'

`That is not satisfactory,' Teal'c said in disgust.

The Eurondans glanced at one another; they were starting to get really annoyed with these visitors.

`We warned you before that this method would take time. There is nothing we can do now but wait; we will be more useful helping in the counter-attack.' He hesitated briefly, before carrying on. `You may remain here with your people if you wish; you know where we are.' Abruptly, he signalled to the others and they left.

The four members of SG-1 remained, separated by a wall.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

`It's gonna take a couple of hours, Sir,' Sam shouted through the hole, beginning to get irritated at this form of communication.

`Okay,' came the crisp reply through her radio, followed by `hey it worked.'

Pressing down her own radio button Sam replied,

`The wall must have been blocking our radio signals.'

`Indeed,' Teal'c added.

`What's your status?'

`We have to wait an hour,' Sam started, slipping into scientist mode, `…for the wall to become stable again until they can knock it down. You should see the process they used, it was really quite fascinating, I'd love to study it.'

`Negative. Are you and Teal'c alone?'

`Yes sir.'

`The Eurondans have relocated to the war room,' Teal'c added.

`Good, `cause what I tell you now is to remain between us, understood.'

`Yes Sir.'

`Understood, O'Neill.'

`Daniel received his injuries from some Eurondans, Alar ordered them to torture him.' Jack paused allowing his words to reach the other team members.

`What?' Sam asked astonished. `Daniel are you alright?' Sam recalled the injuries listed earlier, but now she also feared emotional scars.

`I'll be fine Sam. Just got a bit of a headache.'

The whole team smiled knowingly; they all knew when the archaeologist said he was fine, he was generally anything but. Sam knew that her CO would look after him the best he could for now.

`Is there anything we can do for you O'Neill?' Teal'c enquired.

`Yes. I'm ordering you not to say anything, don't let on that you know. Sam I want you to imply that Daniel may have been hurt by this cave-in and find out all you can about healing devices...hang on a minute.'

Stopping he asked Daniel, `Did it have a name?'

`Yeah' Daniel croaked out, `they called it a Med-Eley'.

Jack practiced the foreign name on his tongue before returning to the radio, `In particular anything you can find out about a Medi…meda…'

`Med-Eley' Daniel replied with a sigh.

`Yeah, what Daniel said, did ya get that Major?'

`Yes Sir,' she replied instantly.

`How may I assist you O'Neill?' Teal'c asked.

`Well…it turns out they're a bunch of racists; so don't be surprised if you get some looks. I want you to try and back Carter up, look scary but don't interfere unless you have to.'

`As you wish.'

`Keep in radio contact kids, I don't want you carried home in a stretcher as well…got it?'

`Yes Sir. Carter out'

Teal'c and Sam turned and followed the path that led to the war room.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@'

`I told you they'd save us didn't I?' Jack joked.

Daniel smiled, `Actually, I think you'll find that I was the optimist.'

`Hey!' Jack protested, `you calling me a liar, Jackson?'

Daniel grinned, `yes, amongst other things.'

`Well that's gratitude for ya!' Jack grumbled, `if it weren't for me you'd be bleeding all over the floor. Maybe I should just leave you here, huh?'

Not surprisingly Daniel didn't laugh. Shit, Jack mentally kicked himself, way to go, Jack. `Danny I'm sorry, I didn't mean…'

`It's okay Jack,' Daniel answered quietly. Jack heard a waver in his voice; had he made the kid cry?

`Daniel?' he asked cautiously.

`I'm sorry. It's just…I don't want to be on my own anymore' he admitted quietly.

`I should think before I speak,' Jack muttered just as quietly. Thinking that Daniel was talking about being alone with his tormenters he asked, `what did they do to you Danny? Wanna talk about it?'

`No it's not them, it's you,' Daniel admitted quietly. He'd probably have a few nightmares about his short visit with Vice and Torment, he knew that, but right now he needed to talk to Jack. He needed to find out why he'd lost his best friend over the last few weeks, why he'd been left with only Janet as his confidant; now seemed like a pretty good time to resolve this.

`Me?' Jack asked confused.

`You told me to kill you Jack…back on that submarine, I thought I'd lost my team, my family.'

`Danny…' Jack started to realise what he was talking about.

`When I had that whole appendix thing Janet tried to keep my mind occupied, but it didn't work. I wanted to be on that ship with you guys…do you blame me Jack? Is that why you've been so distant? Or is it something else I've done…please tell me so I can fix it.'

Jack sighed; had Daniel really been blaming himself these past few weeks? `No Danny, none of this is your fault; you haven't done any thing wrong,' he assured him.

`So why have you been treating me like…' Daniel paused; his headache had just gone up a notch, but this was important. If they didn't resolve this now, they never would; he needed to concentrate.

`Like shit?' Jack supplied.

Daniel nodded, not quite the word he would've used, but it would do.

`Because…I've been having a few personal problems, I didn't mean to take them out on you,' Jack confessed, knowing he'd have to come clean now.

`I thought we shared our problems,' Daniel answered. `Guess I was wrong.' He tried to stay calm, but the pain was increasing, along with his anger; why had Jack shut him out?

`I know, I know. I thought I could deal with it; I didn't mean to treat you so badly, Danny…I'm sorry.'

`Deal with what?' Daniel asked, exasperation creeping into his voice; he wished he could see Jack; he needed to understand before he could forgive him.

Jack, however, was glad that Daniel couldn't see him. He'd never been good at sharing his feelings, this somehow made it easier. He took a deep breath.

`When I was up on that ship I missed Charlie's birthday,' he admitted. `I tried to explain to Sara but she's not interested; she thinks I forgot, and the terrible thing is I did…I knew it was approaching, but on the actual day…' Jack sighed, `I didn't think about him once.'

Daniel closed his right eye, which had started to hurt as he'd strained to keep the DHD in focus. He listened carefully to his friend's voice; he could hear guilt and remorse embedded there. How long had Jack been obsessing about this?

`It's not your fault Jack. You were saving the world at the time,' he pointed out.

`I had plenty of time to think, Daniel,' Jack objected.

`No Jack, you had plenty of time to plan, to keep your mind focussed on the mission. You needed to be prepared for anything, you couldn't have done that if you'd allowed yourself to get consumed by your memories.' Daniel hoped beyond hope that Jack believed him. `Believe me, I know,' he added, really hoping to get his point across.

Behind Daniel, Jack shook his head, protesting `I should have…'

`What Jack?' Daniel asked cutting him off mid-sentence.

However, before Daniel could complete his argument a distant sound caught Jack's attention. `Daniel, sssh.'

Daniel stopped open-mouthed, about to protest further until Jack placed a finger over his lips and hissed,

`Listen!'

Then Daniel heard it too; it was the unmistakeable sound of the stargate dialling up.

Grabbing his radio, he practically shouted down it, making Daniel wince, `Carter, Teal'c get to the stargate now!'

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Teal'c stood back and observed the scene in front of him. He and Major Carter had made it to the war room quickly. He watched through the chaotic crowd as his female team-mate explained the situation to Farrell. Knowing what he now did, Teal'c was determined to keep a close eye on events; evidently, they could no longer trust the inhabitants of this world. Although O'Neill had not said so explicitly, Teal'c was certain his leader would no longer be recommending trade with these people.

Carter seemed to have made progress as she was now talking to the doctor who had previously used the beta-cantin on Alar. The pair were gesturing enthusiastically as they approached a corner of the room, away from the plane simulators, where the doctor retrieved a small black device, which Teal'c assumed to be the Med-Eley.

Satisfied that his friend was in no immediate danger, Teal'c allowed his eyes to follow Farrell. She moved directly over to Alar and the pair engaged in an animated conversation, in the course of which Farrell pointed over to Sam. Alar frowned, looking like a man under a lot of pressure; he then snapped a series of commands at a nearby soldier.

Teal'c watched as the soldier left the room, only to return a moment later, with two other soldiers in tow. Alar spoke to them in harsh whispers, his eyes dangerously threatening; in response the two men silently studied the floor, neither one brave or foolish enough to argue with their leader.

As Teal'c studied the men, he noticed that one of the soldiers had dark red spots splattering the left-hand side of his uniform. The Jaffa gritted his teeth at the realisation that this might be his team-mate's blood. His anger was directed not only at this planet but also at himself; his job was to protect Daniel Jackson – he had failed his younger friend again.

On Chu'lak Teal'c would be well within his rights to dismember these soldiers and offer their torn limbs to the young anthropologist; however, he reminded himself of the Colonel's orders. Reluctantly, Teal'c allowed his gaze to focus back on Sam, as she learned how to use the small device.

O'Neill's voice startled Teal'c from his thoughts. `Carter, Teal'c get to the stargate now!'

He joined the Major at the doorway before the pair ran down the tunnel heading for the circle of stone.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

`Do you think the event horizon is close enough to disintegrate the wall?' Daniel asked in a hopeful whisper; he hurt all over, he just wanted to go home. Now Daniel knew what the problem was with Jack, he could go home and finish the conversation there.

`I doubt it, the DHD was pretty far away.'

`I told you you were the pessimist,' Daniel muttered. `Do you think it's the SGC?'

`Oh I hope so…see I can do optimism,' Jack joked as they heard the seventh chevron engage, followed by the compulsory whoosh.

After a moment Daniel commented, `Okay so the wall's still there.'

Jack gave his right thigh a sympathetic pat before speaking into his radio again.

`Carter, Teal'c, the stargate has activated, repeat the stargate has activated, what is your location?'

`We are just around the next corner,' came Teal'c's reassuring voice.

`Approach with caution,' Jack warned unnecessarily.

Jack and Daniel held their breaths in anticipation, both silently praying for it to be earth trying to contact them.

`It's General Hammond Sir,' came Carter's voice, relieving them both.

`Then why can't we hear him, Major?'

`I don't know sir, the barrier must somehow dilute the intensity of the radio signal. You must only be able to receive a strong signal from our radios as we're nearby; the transmissions sent through the wormhole must be too weak. At least, that's the only theory I can come up with right now.'

Jack glanced down at Daniel.

`You understand any of that?' Jack whispered.

Daniel smiled and simply shook his head; he was too tired to theorise about radio frequencies.

`Right…just repeat what he's saying Major'.

Listening carefully, Jack could just make out a quiet murmuring, which he guessed to be the General's voice. A moment later, Sam translated the hum for them, `I've explained the situation Sir, and the General wants to know how you wish to proceed.'

`How much longer `til the wall starts disappearing?' Jack asked his 2IC.

`We can start the procedure in about half an hour, but I don't know exactly how long it will take,' Sam admitted.

`Tell the General, to send a few barrels of their precious heavy water through in half an hour.'

`What?' Daniel asked, was Jack seriously still contemplating trading with them after this? After everything he had told him?

`Trust me,' Jack whispered as Sam's urgent question came, `Sir?'

`Tell them to send it through accompanied by Janet and if she feels it necessary, one of her nurses…' Jack stopped Daniel's immediate protests `…we'll need a stretcher and other medical…stuff. The water will distract them long enough for us to treat Daniel and get the hell away from here, and so long as we're stuck here I'd like to know the defences are strong.'

Daniel was glad Jack wanted nothing to do with them, but he didn't want Janet in any danger. `Jack…'

`Daniel,' Jack cut him off, while Sam informed the General, `you're hurt, we need Janet here…it's her job.'

`I know but…' he protested.

`She'll want to be here Daniel, especially when she hears what you've been through,' Jack insisted softly.

`But…'

`If I move you I'll hurt you and I might cause some serious damage. You need to be looked at, patched up and carried through the stargate… and frankly I don't trust anyone to do that more than I trust Janet.'

Daniel smiled, defeated. `Me too,' he confessed.

`The General agrees with your request. Janet wants to know if Daniel's conscious and how much blood he's lost.'

The fact that Janet must have been present when they activated the gate in search of the over-due team was not missed by either of the men.

`Oh he's conscious and able to argue,' Jack said grinning, waiting for Carter to pass that on before continuing, `he's got pretty deep stab wounds on his thigh and below one shoulder blade; I covered them and they appear to have stop bleeding but I can't say how much he lost before the cave-in.'

`Careful, sounds like you're after Janet's job,' Daniel whispered as they waited for Sam to speak.

`She wants to know about the other injuries sir,' she relayed.

`One broken leg, damaged rib cage –possible internal injuries, oh and he's got a real shiner...'

`I'm fine,' Daniel called into the radio stubbornly before Jack could stop him.

`Yeah it sounds like it!' Sam said, before returning to her new job.

`The General wants to know if there's anything else before he ends the transmission.'

`No declarations of undying love Danny?' Jack teased, watching as Daniel shook his head before replying, `no, that's all Major.'

Quietly they listened, hearing the stargate shut down over the sound of Daniel's strained breaths.

`Stargate's shut down sir,' Carter confirmed.

`How's it coming with the Medi…the healing device, Major?' Jack asked.

`Their head doctor was explaining it to me sir; I think it's pretty straightforward. However, she did say its success depends on the extent of the injuries and how long they've been left untreated, sir.'

`Find out everything you can about it; if we take one of them home at least we'll have achieved something.'

`Understood sir.'

`Teal'c?'

`Yes O'Neill?'

`How's your job going?'

`I have been watching Major Carter from a distance and observing the Eurondans. I believe I have identified Daniel Jackson's torturers, but I have refrained from dismembering them.'

Teal'c's voice was so calm and reasonable that Jack would have laughed, if it hadn't been for Daniel stiffening up in front of him. `Glad to hear it Teal'c; continue as you were for the next thirty minutes, then I expect you to report back – got it?'

`As you wish O'Neill'

`Yes Sir'

They heard their footsteps fading into the distance, as an uneasy silence settled over them.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Teal'c took point, standing by the open doorway, keeping one eye on Major Carter and his other on his Tau'ri watch; he had to ensure they kept to their schedule and arrived back at the stargate in time to meet Dr. Fraiser.

Sam, on the other hand, was deep in conversation with their doctor, Curel. The woman was very enthusiastic in giving Sam lots of information on the Med-Eley.

`How many do you have?' Sam asked, trying to gauge whether they'd notice if one went missing.

`We have many. Most are kept in storage, until we win the war, then there will be a greeter need. We have a sufficient amount for the number of Eurondans not in stasis kept here.'

`Then you won't mind if I borrow this one to help my team-mate?' Sam asked politely.

The doctor dismissed Sam, `that is not necessary, I can help him.'

`Well, where he's trapped is very unstable; I'm sure Alar wouldn't want to risk his best doctor. Please, I have to go there anyway…' Sam could see that despite her arguments the doctor still wasn't convinced. Thinking quickly Sam spoke, `in our culture if a man is injured their…um…life partner…has to heal them. It is thought offensive if another woman tries to heal them' she finished lamely.

The doctor looked her up and down, `life partner?' she asked sceptically.

`Yes. On my planet people form deep bonds celebrated by marriage ceremonies.'

`And have had a…marriage ceremony?' Curel asked, clearly unfamiliar with the terminology.

Sam nodded, sure why not, sorry Daniel. `Yes, he's my husband.'

`You could do worse' she commented, glancing at the dark skinned warrior standing at the entrance to the room, `very well'. She then placed the device in Sam's hands as Teal'c walked over to her, the five Eurondans in tow. `It is almost time, Major Carter.'

Sam nodded, and thanked the doctor before joining the group and heading out the door.

`Take care of your husband!' Curel shouted pleasantly.

Sam grimaced and picked up the pace.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

The silence stretched between the two-trapped members of SG-1. Well, Daniel thought, now's as good a time as any to finish our little guilt discussion.

`As I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted…' Daniel started.

Jack was confused, neither of them had been speaking, so what was the kid on about? `Huh?!' Maybe he should check for head injury again.

Daniel continued, ignoring Jack's attempt at a question, `it wasn't your fault; you certainly shouldn't have been obsessing about it all this time.'

Oh shit, he's still talking about that… `Daniel…'

Daniel ignored him again; he had to get through to Jack, he needed him to stop punishing himself because unknowingly he was also punishing his friends. Daniel decided to play it bold, `Charlie would be proud of you,' he announced.

Jack let a bitter laugh escape his lips. `For what? Forgetting his birthday?'

`No,' Daniel said, trying to make his voice sound strong despite the throbbing in his head, `he'd be proud that you saved his mom, his grandma, his grandpa, his friends…'

`Danny,' Jack said softly. Here Daniel was helping HIM, trying to make HIM feel better, despite the way Jack had been treating him in recent weeks; how had he almost let a friend like this get away?

`You remember once when you told me that ya thought Charlie was a distant star watching over you in heaven?' Daniel asked softly, leaning his aching head on Jack's shoulder.

Jack didn't remember telling Daniel that, it was something he'd thought he hadn't told a soul; he agreed softly anyway, that was how he liked to think of his deceased son.

`Then he'd be proud that you saved the world he watches over,' Daniel concluded trying to sound passionate, but fatigue was starting to win.

As Daniel let his head rest against Jack's shoulder, Jack smiled his first real smile in weeks. `Boy, you're good Daniel,' he said as he felt the guilt slowly ease off his shoulders.

Daniel simply murmured against his shoulder in response, making the older man smile. `Am I keeping you awake Dr. Jackson?'

He got no reply from the sleeping form beside him. Just then, he heard the distant sound of the stargate activating, glancing at his watch he realised that it should be their rescuers right on schedule.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

`Don't look at me like that, Teal'c,' Sam warned as they headed around the corner to an active stargate. The Eurondans behind them started to panic, preparing to head back for appropriate weapons.

`It's just our friends coming through with heavy water,' Sam reassured them, causing an excited ripple to course through the small group.

`To which look are you referring, Major Carter?' Teal'c asked before catching Janet as she came flying through the wormhole, five barrels behind her.

A couple of soldiers appeared and carried off the barrels of heavy water, as the original five started coating the wall in greenish liquid.

`What's the situation Major?' came Jack's voice through the radio.

`Dr Fraiser's arrived, Sir, and the Eurondans are here starting the procedure.'

Janet glanced over to the rapidly changing wall, guessing that Daniel lay the other side, injured.

`Okay, keep me posted.'

Janet couldn't restrain herself, grabbing her own radio she asked, `how's he doing Colonel?' trying to keep the worry from her voice; I'm a professional, she reminded herself sternly.

`He's doing okay, Doc – he's asleep right now.'

`Okay, thank you sir,' Janet replied.

Satisfied there was nothing more she could do she joined her friends who were sitting on some overturned barrels and metal storage cases.

Teal'c was pointedly not looking at Sam. `What's going on guys?' Janet asked sitting down.

`Major Carter asked that I do not look upon her,' replied Teal'c.

`What? I did not!' Sam protested. `I told you not to look at me like that!'

`Like what?' Janet asked curiously.

`Like you think I'm crazy!' Sam muttered putting her head in her hands; it had been a long day.

`I do not think you are mentally unbalanced Major Carter,' Teal'c replied honestly, `I was simply surprised; I was unaware that you had chosen Daniel Jackson as your marriage partner.'

`Excuse me?!' Janet gasped, hoping she hadn't just heard what she thought she had.

`I haven't!' Sam whispered quietly, ensuring that no Eurondans overheard the conversation, `I just said that as an excuse to learn how to use the Medi-Eley.'

`What did you tell them?' Janet asked cautiously, wanting to ensure that there was no need for her to be jealous.

`The doctor kept insisting that she would come and heal Daniel.' Janet nodded, she could see how that would be a problem. `So…umm…I kinda told her that in our culture, only the wounded man's…husband could heal them, otherwise there'd be a lot of jealousy.' Sam shrugged, trying to keep the blush off her cheeks. `God knows what she'll think if she sees both of us helping him, huh?'

`I understand,' Teal'c replied gravely.

Janet nodded, pleased that she wouldn't have to kill Daniel, but could instead concentrate on healing him.

At that moment Caved interrupted them. `I am about to turn on the gamma-field-distributor; we will then retire to the war room.'

`Why?' Janet asked.

`There is no reason for us to remain here. The process is slightly different from before; the distributor can now automatically remove the wall,' he explained to Janet, before turning his attention to Sam. `Please have Colonel O'Neill report to Alar when he is able.'

Sam nodded, fat chance, she thought as she watched the men depart. Pulling out her radio she informed the Colonel, `The Eurondans have started the procedure and have left sir.'

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Daniel glanced around the spinning room, in absolute terror. The blood stained walls were closing in on him, trapping him.

Suddenly he caught sight of two large shadows in the far corner, their evil laughter chilling his trembling bones. Daniel desperately tried to back away from them but he couldn't move.

The figures came closer.

Daniel commanded his tired limbs to move, struggling against the bonds that held him, biting into his wrists. It hurt to breathe.

The two figures developed faces full of hatred and contempt as they stepped into the single spot light that surrounded Daniel. They were opening their mouths violently shouting at him, but no sound came out.

A large fist came towards him in slow motion, Daniel tried to get out of its path, but it was useless. He heard the sickening impact, once, twice, three times. They were laughing again, wiping his blood off their knuckles.

Suddenly an ominously familiar device appeared in their hands. `No!' Daniel tried to shout, but no sound would leave his throat. They turned it on and flashing lights blinded him, blurring his sight. Humming filled his ears as it came towards him. He tried to protest, the humming noise got louder, deafening him.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

The faint humming of the distributor reached Jack, `I hear ya Major,' he responded, at the exact same moment Daniel jerked awake, a small scream escaping his mouth, grimacing as it hurt his ribs.

Daniel glanced around with his one good eye; he could feel Jack behind him, comforting him. `Ssh Danny,' Jack murmured, `you're gonna be alright, it was just a dream.'

`Colonel what's happened?' Janet asked sharply over the electrical hum of the equipment; they had all heard Daniel's terror over the radio.

`It's okay Doc,' Jack reassured her quickly, `he just woke up.'

`Janet?' Daniel asked confused, her worried voice reaching him through the fog.

`The cavalry are here, Daniel,' Jack reassured him, `we're just waiting for the wall to do that amazing disappearing trick again, and then we're outta here.'

`Outta here?' Daniel repeated fuzzily, still trying to collect his thoughts, and to distinguish between his nightmares and reality.

`Yeah. Not long now and we can go home,' Jack assured him; shifting slightly to get comfortable, he was unaware that he leaned against the radio, switching it on. `Ya know your bride to be is just on the other side of that wall!' Jack teased him, hoping to help Daniel take his mind off his nightmare.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Sam, Janet and Teal'c froze on the other side of the wall.

Teal'c looked suspiciously at Sam, `You said you were not marrying Daniel Jackson,' he accused.

`I'm not…' Sam replied confused; if she wasn't, and she sincerely hoped Teal'c wasn't, than that left…

`Oh wow,' Janet exclaimed, glad she was sitting down as she doubted her legs would support her.

Sam jumped up and hugged her friend, `I didn't even know you were dating,' she admonished her, smiling.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Behind the wall, the two men continued their conversation, unaware that they now had an audience.

Daniel mock groaned, `Jack…' then he grinned, cheekily and added, `you wanna be my best man?'

Jack grinned, he wasn't sure whether Daniel was serious about this whole wedding thing, but he'd play along for now, `gee I don't know Danny; I've got a lot on, ya know, what with saving the world and all that.'

`No biggie,' Daniel murmured, his ribs and legs [were] hurting like hell; `you'd probably lose the rings anyway…'

`Hey!' Jack's protest went ignored.

`And I dread to think of what you'd make me do on my stag night!'

`I happen to throw the best stag nights this side of the universe' Jack insisted, `you won't know what you're missing.'

`I'll just ask Teal'c or the General,' Daniel mulled over his other options, `hey, I could ask Maybourne…'

`Don't you dare!' Jack said. `Look if you're THAT desperate, I'm sure I could fit you in somewhere in my schedule…you'll owe me big time though, especially since you're using my cabin to propose!'

`I never agreed to use your cabin,' Daniel pointed out.

`And why not?' Jack teased, `it's perfect, wooden fire, silent lake, moonlight…'

Daniel sighed, coming back down to reality. `And no escape when she says `no'…' he continued for him, `awkward silences…'

`Hey Mr I'm-always-the-optimist! She won't say no!' Jack insisted.

`How do you know?' Daniel asked as Jack shifted slightly behind him, unknowingly ending the transmission.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

The three listened to the men's conversation; it was hard not to, seeing as it was being broadcasted throughout the tunnel.

Sam gripped Janet's hand excitedly. `What are you going to do?' she whispered eagerly; she was so happy for her friends.

Janet shrugged her shoulders slightly, as tears of joy ran silently down her cheeks; was Daniel serious?

A lump appeared in her throat as she heard the doubt in Daniel voice before the conversation stopped. Instinctively knowing what she had to do, she grabbed her radio and exclaimed, `because I love you Daniel!'

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Jack winced at Daniel's tone of voice, but before he could offer any reassurance he was interrupted by Janet's voice over the radio,

`Because I love you Daniel!'

The two men froze.

`Jack?' Daniel asked.

`Umm, oops?,' came the innocent reply.

`Oops?'

`So much for proposing in my cabin!' Jack joked lightly as he held the radio to Daniel's mouth. `The stage is yours,' he said as he pressed the button.

`Janet?' Daniel asked hesitantly.

`Yes,' came the firm reply.

`Yes?' Daniel asked, feeling somewhat like a parrot. Was she simply acknowledging her name or did she mean…

`Did you mean it?' a hint of desperation entered her voice.

`I meant it,' Daniel replied, suddenly more certain of that than of anything.

`Then so did I!' Janet exclaimed joyously.

`So we're…'Daniel asked, hoping he wasn't dreaming.

`We're going to get married!' Janet said.

`Love you,' Daniel murmured, his head was spinning, his whole body ached and he was trapped in an avalanche, but Daniel swore he'd never felt happier.

`I love you too honey!'

Daniel blushed slightly, a grin spreading over his face. He could hear Sam and Teal'c congratulating his new fiancé. Daniel's smile widened; he liked that word.

`Congrats spacemonkey!' Jack said hoarsely.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Sam hugged her friend enthusiastically. `Wow, I can't believe it!' she was crying herself now, `you and Daniel engaged.'

`I know!' Janet said smiling.

`Congratulations Dr. Fraiser' Teal'c said, bowing his head. `I look forward to attending this ritual.'

`So spill it,' Sam insisted, `how long has this been going on?'

The three returned to their temporary seats as Janet related the tale Daniel had previously told to Jack.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

`Hey,' Jack said suddenly, breaking Daniel from his musings, `you could use the cabin for your honeymoon!'

`Maybe…' Daniel considered, `…well, for at least part of it.'

`Part of it?' Jack asked amused, `just how long do you expect Hammond to give you? After all, you're his best linguist-archaeologist- anthropologist and Janet's the best doctor…he'll probably make you stay on base!'

Daniel grinned, `how romantic!'

Suddenly, the faint humming increased in intensity, `not long now, colonel!' came Sam's voice.

The men smiled; they couldn't wait to get out of there. Together they stared at the distant wall, willing it to disappear.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Janet couldn't stop grinning as she described the last couple of months with Daniel; despite the mock telling off she'd had from Sam for keeping it all secret.

The two women then started sharing Daniel stories, laughing and `aah- ing' over their favourite linguist, as if discussing baby photos.

Teal'c simply observed them, trying to locate the humour in Janet's latest anecdote; finally he stated, `I do not understand the humour in this situation Dr. Fraiser; surely, your parents were not amused by Daniel Jackson's attacking them in the middle of the night with a kitchen implement, whilst wearing nothing but your pink robe and matching bunny slippers.'

Compounding his confusion, this interjection only sent Sam and Janet into further paroxysms. `They were mortified!' Janet commented once she'd caught her breath again, `but not as much as Daniel. Bless him, he was so embarrassed, so much for first impressions!'

Sam smiled, shaking her head, `only Daniel could think his future in- laws were burglars! I bet they really regretted catching the earlier flight!'

They then moved on, Sam recounting an early mission when Daniel had almost had his head shaved by some short, furry aliens.

Teal'c was extremely pleased when the humming increased, stopping the women's banter; Jaffa didn't often get headaches. He listened as Sam informed their CO of the situation and watched the wall expectantly; it wouldn't be long now.

Moments later the wall disintegrated to reveal their two teammates.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Jack and Daniel watched as Janet and Sam ran over to them, relief evident on their faces. Daniel felt Janet brush her lips over the top of his head before snapping into full doctor mode.

Checking out her patient she glanced at Jack, `you did a good job here colonel.'

`Hey, don't sound so surprised!'

`Okay' Janet said, `we're going to see what this Med-Eley will heal okay?'

Everyone nodded. Sam produced the device and under Janet's careful eye pressed it gently onto the stab wound on Daniel's thigh. In response, Daniel gasped softly and Janet grabbed his hand, squeezing it gently.

A moment later the wound disappeared, in much the same manner as the wall had; everyone stared in amazement. Jack gently prodded it and was rewarded by a deadly glare from Janet; if any poking was to be done, it would be done by her.

She gently laid her hand flat on his thigh. `Let me know if you feel any pain okay?' Daniel nodded slightly; his thigh may have stopped hurting, but his head certainly hadn't.

After a few moments, Janet seemed satisfied and gently undid his jacket, remembering the report about possible internal injuries. Everyone winced slightly at the sight of Daniel's battered chest.

`Be extremely gentle,' Janet cautioned, pointing to the area where she thought the device would be most effective.

Sam did as instructed; grimacing at the hisses of pain Daniel was trying to hide. They watched and prayed. The bruises faded and Daniel's breathing seemed less forced. 'I'm guessing that helped a little,' Janet said. Daniel nodded in agreement, 'but it obviously didn't clear it all,' Janet concluded, batting Jack's hand away.

Leaning Daniel forward slightly she removed the bandage on his shoulder and held him as she used the Med-Eley. When that wound disappeared Janet announced, `right, let's get him on a stretcher and back to earth.'

Daniel's immediate protests were stopped by Janet, as Teal'c went and retrieved the stretcher. `Daniel, there's still a chance of internal injuries, plus your leg's still broken and there are other minor injuries which I'd rather treat back home where it's safe. But first we have to get you there so no arguments ya hear!'

Daniel nodded meekly, he doubted pouting or puppy dog eyes would help him now. He couldn't help grinning when Jack whispered, loud enough for everyone to hear, `we all know who wears the trousers in your relationship!'

Teal'c placed the stretcher down beside Daniel and carefully they lifted him onto it. The Jaffa then offered a hand to O'Neill, who after a few protests from his knees was up and standing.

Glancing around his team as he got the circulation back into his legs he said, `right Janet, Carter and Daniel, head back through the gate. Teal'c, you're with me.'

`Sir?' Sam queried.

`Teal'c and I are going to have a little word with Alar, I want you to get Daniel home.'

`Are you sure that's wise sir?' Sam asked hesitantly, `what are you going to say?'

`Oh don't worry about us Major, we're just gonna have a little talk…' glancing down at the two newly engaged doctors on the floor as they exchanged kisses, he smiled and turned back to Sam, `…about the birds and the bees!'

Teal'c raised an eyebrow as he silently turned and followed O'Neill out of the room. He didn't know how much he could contribute to a conversation about those flying feathered creatures and those stripped honey-producing insects that Major Carter seems to dislike.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

`Oh this is so embarrassing,' Daniel exclaimed as Sam punched in their GDO code.

`Daniel' Janet warned lightly, `don't you go all macho on us now, ya hear?' Daniel nodded smiling. `Good, `cause I only allow one per team and you've got the colonel.'

Sam and Daniel laughed at the joke as they lifted Daniel and stepped through the wormhole in the direction of home.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

`Ah, Colonel,' Alar greeted him as they made their way into the war room, `I was sorry to hear about the cave-in, were you impressed with the technology we used to aid you?' Alar asked, ignoring Teal'c.

`Well I didn't have a particularly good view,' Jack shot back.

`Of course,' Alar said taking it in his stride, `I take it the Med- Eley helped Dr Jackson?'

`Well, IT certainly didn't hurt him,' Jack said coldly. Changing the subject he asked, `do you need another pilot?' Alar nodded pleased as Jack sat in the pilot seat.

`Watch my back, Teal'c,' Jack whispered. The Jaffa nodded.

It took Farrell a while to realise what the colonel had planned, but by then it was too late. `He's aiding the enemy bombers!' she shouted in alarm. Two soldiers approached and Teal'c zatted the pair, quietly pleased with his aim. Bra-tac would be proud, he thought.

Alar then tried his luck and Teal'c broke his weapon easily, smiling smugly as the Eurondan appeared devastated. Teal'c waited for O'Neill to finish his task, as bombs hit above their heads and debris fell from the ceiling.

Jack leapt from his seat, grabbing some of the flashy weapons as he left the room, with Teal'c following him. `Please,' Alar begged as more bombs fell, `why? We could have given you so much!'

Jack abruptly stopped. `Why?' he asked incredulously, `why? I'll tell you why, how about for starters, the fact that you're killing innocent people?'

`Innocent?' Alar asked confused, `they breed…'

Jack nodded and completed the man's sentence, `Like us. They reproduce just as your `kindred' do.'

Half of SG-1 took great satisfaction in the pained look that spread across Alar's face. `And,' Jack continued, `I'd never recommend diplomatic relations with a world that tortured one of my team.' Jack stared at the older man, challenging him to deny it.

When nothing was said Jack and Teal'c turned to leave.

`Wait! Take me with you!' Alar pleaded.

`I wouldn't follow us if I was you' Jack advised, before stepping through the wormhole, leaving the tunnels behind him to collapse in a heap. If Alar did choose to follow, Jack promised, he'd make certain Daniel never have to see him again. `Close the iris.'

******** EPILOGUE ********

Daniel stood anxiously in front of the altar, juggling his weight between his toes and the balls of his feet; he could hear Jack shuffling behind him. Unclasping his sweaty hands Daniel nervously adjusted his glasses, turning slightly to once again survey the growing crowd.

Jack glanced at the nervous groom, before also surveying the swarm people that were crammed into the small hall. Smiling, Jack recalled how Janet and Daniel had planned a small wedding. `Seems like the whole base managed to come,' Jack commented quietly to Daniel.

Daniel nodded distractedly; he noticed that Teal'c (who had been invited to be the second best man, but claimed he'd rather watch this event), Hammond, Jacob/ Selmac, Janet's mom and brother were in the front rows. Studying the rest of the crowd Daniel agreed with Jack – many of the faces were those of SGC personnel. However, amongst them were members of Janet's family that he'd met with briefly earlier; he felt a slight pang of remorse that he had no family attending. Correction, Daniel told himself firmly, pushing all negative thoughts aside, I'm surrounded by my family.

Glancing back at Jack, Daniel smiled, `looks that way.'

`Who's that? he's cutting it close,' Jack commented as the elderly man in question slipped into one of the aisle seats.

Daniel craned his neck around to see who he was talking about. `Wow,' Daniel seemed a little stunned, `that's my old archaeology professor Dr Jordan, I haven't spoken to him since…'

`Since the whole wormhole thing?' Jack supplied.

`Well…'Daniel grinned looking slightly sheepish, `I was going to say since I became the laughing stock of the entire archaeological community, but I'll go with yours!'

Jack smiled sympathetically as Daniel continued, `I always meant to get in touch with him, to thank him even but…' he sighed `I guess I thought I wouldn't be welcome.'

`Well Danny, he must still care if he's come all the way from Chicago to be here,' Jack pointed out.

`Yeah,' Daniel agreed smiling, `I wonder how he found out?'

He didn't get long to brood over that though as music filled the air. `You'll be fine,' Jack told Daniel as he took yet another deep breath.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Janet's heart was beating fast as her dad led her slowly down the aisle. She knew that if she looked around she would see many smiling and encouraging faces, but right now Janet only had eyes for the attractive archaeologist-linguist-anthropologist who stood waiting for her.

She smiled as he raised his head and made eye-contact, the familiar electricity flowing between them both reassuring and exciting her. She knew that Sam and Cassie were walking behind her as she slowly reached the end of her walk; she gently kissed her father on the cheek and he whispered, `good luck honey' before she smiled and took her place beside Daniel.

She smiled at him, a smile that he returned in full; this was the moment that they'd both been waiting for. They were vaguely aware of the music finishing and the speech beginning, `Friends. Family. We are gathered here today to celebrate the joyous union of Daniel and Janet. May the happiness we share with them today be with them always. Now Janet, repeat after me. I, Janet...' Janet followed blindly, only aware that these words would legally bond herself and Daniel; she just stared into his eyes trying to convey all she felt for this man.

Daniel, for his part was just as giddy; for him the ceremony rushed by and before he knew it his mind heard and registered the words, `You may now kiss the bride.' Needing no further encouragement Daniel leaned forward and pressed his lips to Janet's.

THE END



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