Inescapable

By Terri D. Thomas

Part 1

His index finger lightly traced the partially sketched picture. He had always promised himself that he would finish it. It had never happened. And now she was gone. Another of many promises broken.

Daniel sighed and sunk further into the cushions of the couch. The mandatory stand down of SG-1 was driving him crazy. He didn't need a break, despite what Hammond had said. He was fine. He was ready to move on and he couldn't do that sitting alone in his apartment.

At least at the SGC he could occupy his time examining some artifact that had been brought back by one of the teams or research further into the possible locations of Kheb. However, after the near fiasco of the mission to Netu to rescue Sam's father, the General had ordered SG-1 to go home and rest, despite Daniel's repeated protests.

Now he sat alone in the confines of his prison, staring at his journal of Abydos. He didn't know why he had chosen that book from the shelf. He had truly intended to try and lose himself in one of the mythology books in his vast collection. However, the Abydos journal had drawn his attention like a magnet. Without knowing it, he was sitting on the couch, thumbing through the pages, reliving the memories of the glorious year he had celebrated with his wife. Then he stumbled across the half-finished sketch.

He closed his eyes and tried to picture the vibrancy of the woman he loved. However, he could no longer count on his memory to remind him of her. The only pictures that would play in his mind were of his final minutes with Amaunet, as the evil parasite manipulated Shaur'i into inflicting the pain of the ribbon device on her husband. When Daniel wasn’t picturing that image, he remembered Shaur'i's lifeless face as her life force left her body, leaving only the stench of her burning flesh in its wake. Neither were memories he cared to recall.

The ringing phone shook him from his reverie. He brought his hand to his eyes and rubbed away the tears that threatened to spill over. Fumbling for the phone on the nearby end table, he answered on the third ring, his voice still rough with emotion. "Hello?"

"It's me," the male voice responded immediately.

"Hey, Jack."

"I just received a call from Hammond. He's asked us all to come in. . .now."

Daniel felt a knot of anticipation form in his stomach. "What's up?"

"Not sure. He didn't want to say over an unsecured line, but he sounded worried."

"I wonder. . .," Daniel started to ponder, but Jack cut him off.

"I've already called Sam. She'll meet us there. You want me to pick you up?"

"Nah, I'll meet you there."

"Okay, see you in thirty."

"So what's going on, Colonel?" Major Samantha Carter asked.

Jack shrugged his shoulders and plopped down in the chair across from the woman. "You know as much as I do."

Daniel made a beeline for the coffeepot in the corner of the conference room. "Any one else want a cup?"

"No thanks," Sam and Jack answered simultaneously.

After filling his cup, the archeologist returned to the large table. "Where's Teal'c?"

"Don't know. Haven't seen him. But something's up. Hammond's been holed up in his office since I arrived," the woman answered.

Before the team could discuss the situation further, the door to the General's office opened. Obediently, they rose to attention. Hammond walked through, followed by Teal'c and two men dressed in brown tunics and pants.

The team immediately recognized one of the two men. Sam was the first to say the name, surprise in her voice. "Aldwin."

"Hello, Major Carter, Colonel O'Neill, Dr. Jackson," the man responded dutifully. "It is good to see you again." He then turned to his companion. "May I introduce Brasel."

"Please be seated," Hammond ordered.

After everyone had taken a place around the conference table, Hammond nodded to Aldwin. "Mr. Aldwin arrived here an hour ago with some very interesting news."

All eyes turned to Aldwin. "Perhaps I should start at the beginning."

"Please, do," Hammond confirmed.

"As you are aware, the Tok'ra have had operatives infiltrating all levels of the Goa'uld System Lords." The group nodded in unison. "One of our operatives is stationed on Chulak. He has gained the trust of those in power and has access to valuable information."

O'Neill, clearly losing patience with the man's round-about way of getting to the point, pushed him. "Yeah. . .we know. Get on with it."

Aldwin seemed unaffected by the jibe. "Recently, the operative revealed information that was quite disturbing to the Council. The members asked that I come here to confirm what we have been told."

"And," Jack prodded again.

Aldwin glanced at Brasel. The other Tok'ra nodded, encouraging Aldwin to continue. "Our operative says that he has seen Amaunet. . .alive. . .on Chulak."

End Part 1

Inescapable

By Terri D. Thomas

Part 2

All eyes in the room turned to Daniel. The young doctor's were closed, however. Quietly, he mumbled, "that's impossible."

Jack, recovering first, turned back to Aldwin. "Your operative is wrong."

"Our operative is trustworthy."

Daniel's eyes opened. He started to speak, but no words would come. He swallowed and shook his head, his eyes focusing on a small scratch in the table.

Sam, seeing Daniel's reaction, let her hand drift over to his arm, squeezing it in support. "Perhaps the operative meant that the Goa'uld, Amaunet, was still alive."

"The information was quite clear," Brasel interjected. "The body which the Goa'uld inhabited has been seen, not just the Goa'uld."

"Teal'c killed Amaunet to save Daniel's life," Sam countered, her voice hard.

"I have already told them of this incident," Teal'c's voice was assuring in its confidence.

Daniel's sad gaze finally met the groups. "My wife is dead and buried on Abydos. She died before my eyes. Nothing could bring her back."

"A sarcophagus?" Aldwin suggested.

"No!" Daniel countered, a bit to quickly, a hint of panic in the single word. "There is no sarcophagus on Abydos."

"By the time Shaur'i was buried a sarcophagus would have been of no use," Teal'c concluded.

Brasel looked from his associate to the group. "There is another possible explanation." Before he could continue, a terse look from Aldwin silenced the Tok'ra.

"What?" Jack pressed, seeing the silent exchange between the two men.

"We can not speak of it at this time. Perhaps after we have confirmed the facts we can reveal more."

"What facts?" Sam asked.

"We must confirm that the human host to Amaunet is dead," Aldwin declared.

Sam saw Daniel flinch. "Is that really necessary?"

"You tell us that she is dead. Our operative says otherwise. Even you must admit that this contradiction of fact is curious. We have a duty to confirm that the Queen of Apophis is truly deceased."

"My wife is dead," Daniel whispered. "Nothing could bring her back."

"I am sorry, Dr. Jackson, but we can not take your word on this matter. If you are wrong and Amaunet lives, then she will again control Apophis' interests."

Sam shot a worried look at the archeologist. "The child?"

Daniel's blue eyes met the Major's. "She's dead."

"But what if they're right? Maybe. . .maybe Apophis' Jaffa retrieved the body from Abydos and had some technology. . .like the sarcophagus. . .that brought her back." Sam paused, allowing the implication to sink in, then she continued. "Daniel, if it's at all possible that she's alive, the child will be in danger."

Jack watched his young friend's shoulders slump in defeat. The Colonel looked at Hammond. "General, please, we all saw her. . .she was dead. Hell, we buried her. I won't allow. . .," he began to protest.

The General cleared his throat and shook his head. "Colonel, I have made my decision. I am sending a team back to Abydos to confirm that Dr. Jackson's wife is truly deceased. That should take care of the confusion."

"No. . .," Daniel whispered. "Please don't."

Hammond gave the younger man a gentle look. "I'm sorry, Dr. Jackson. I don't see where we have a choice. This information needs to be verified."

"Sir, I think it would be best if SG-1 were to do this," O'Neill offered.

Hammond shook his head. "I can send another team. I think it would be easier on Dr. Jackson."

"No, Sir," Daniel spoke out, his voice harsh. "If my wife's grave is going to be disturbed, then I want to be the one to do it. She. . .she deserves better than to have total strangers exhume her body."

"Daniel, you don't have to do this. We'll take care of it for you," Jack offered.

There was a moment's silence. Daniel's gaze then met Jack's, his jaw set firmly, eyes cold. "No, Jack, I need to be there."

"All right," Hammond nodded. "SG-1 you will travel to Abydos as soon as we have confirmation from the MALP. Briefing will be held at 2100 hours."

Daniel stared into his empty locker. His eyes, however, saw nothing but his deceased wife's face. The memory of Shaur'i's life fading from her eyes replayed over and over again. He dropped his head into his hands.

Fingers gently grasped his shoulder, chasing the memories away. "You okay?" Jack's voice came from behind.

A small laugh escaped the younger man's lips. "Oh. . .yeah. . .just fine."

Jack stepped over the bench and sat down next to his friend. "If you need to talk. . .," he offered.

"I'll. . .I'll be okay."

"Yeah, you sound like it."

"I just. . .." Daniel's voice trailed off. He took a deep breath and tried again. "I didn't think I'd ever have to do this."

"Daniel, you don’t have to do this. I'll take care of it for you. I promise."

"No. If there's a chance that. . .." The words stopped again. "I need to see for myself."

O'Neill nodded. He rose from the bench. "See you in the Gateroom."

The blue liquid of the event horizon shimmered, casting the embarkation room in an eerie glow. The four members of SG-1 stood at the base of the ramp, the two Tok'ra behind them.

"SG-1, you have a go. You may depart when ready." Hammond's authoritative voice boomed over the speaker.

"Ready, Kids?" O'Neill asked as he ascended the metal ramp.

Sam heard the quiet "No" that came from Daniel's lips.

She allowed her hand to move to his shoulder. "It'll be okay," she murmured so that only her friend could hear.

Teal'c approached the archeologist from the other side. "We will be with you, Daniel Jackson."

Daniel gave the two a slight nod and smile. "Thanks."

End Part 2

Inescapable

By Terri D. Thomas

Part 3

The chamber containing the Abydos Stargate was lit with torches that created an eerie glow through the room. As soon as the travelers had cleared the event horizon of the device, they saw the greeting party of one move from the shadows.

"Greetings, Good Son," Kasuf said as he stepped forward, concern in his eyes.

"Greetings, Good Father," Daniel responded dutifully. "Thank you for allowing us to return to your home."

"It is your home as well, Good Son."

Daniel gave the man a half-hearted smile. He then gestured to the two Tok'ra standing behind the SG-1 team. "These are friends. This is Aldwin. This is Brasel."

The two Tok'ra males step forward and bowed their heads. "We are honored," Aldwin said for both.

O'Neill, Carter and Teal'c stepped forward as well. "It's good to see you again, Kasuf," Jack said, extending his hand to the man. Kasuf reached out and grasped it in the somewhat foreign gesture of a handshake.

"It is not that I do not value you being here, but may I ask why you have come?"

Daniel stepped closer. "We have a very difficult task to complete, Good Father." He paused for a moment and then glanced back at Jack. "We're here because. . .we need to. . .," Daniel's words stopped. He had no desire to make this request.

Jack, as if sensing Daniel's difficulty, stepped up beside the archeologist. "Kasuf, we need to examine Shaur'i's burial site."

The old man frowned, brows furrowed in confusion. "For what reason?"

Jack glanced at Daniel, waiting for the younger man to answer the question. Clearly, though, Daniel was not up to providing the information. "We need to exhume Shaur'i's body to confirm that it is still there," the commander finally answered.

Kasuf, confusion still on his face, turned to Daniel. "What is this 'ex. . .hume'?"

Daniel, recovering slightly from the emotional turmoil, finally spoke. "We need to unbury her body."

Kasuf's face suddenly became hard. "But this is not permitted."

Daniel glanced back at Jack, not surprised by the reaction. His gaze then returned to the old man. "I know. But this is important. There is information that we need to verify. The only way we can do this is to examine Shaur'i's body again."

"No," the leader answered, the word clearly indicating that there would be no argument. "No man is permitted to disturb the resting place of the dead. It is a violation of all that we believe."

"I know that the beliefs of your world do not permit such an intrusion, but Good Father, this is important."

"You will tell me why."

There was a moment's silence. Aldwin stepped forward. "It has been reported that your daughter lives."

"No, that is not possible. My daughter is no longer of this world."

"She has been seen," Aldwin continued to press.

Daniel placed himself between the two men. "I, too, do not believe that Shaur'i is alive, however, we must verify the truth of the information. The only way we can do that is to see that her body is still in its resting place."

Kasuf turned away from his son-in-law. "I will consider your request." He tilted his head and listened. "The storms approach. We will eat and then rest. In the morning I will give you your answer."

Daniel slept fitfully. He could find no comfort in rest, despite being in the familiar home of his father-in-law. Each time he closed his eyes, images of Shaur'i's death haunted him. What was worse, was that when those images were dealt with, they were replaced by pictures of what Shaur'i would look like after these past few months in her grave. He had no desire to see the once beautiful features marred by the degeneration of death.

A gentle hand on his shoulder startled him. Bolting upright, he found himself face to face with Kasuf. "What's wrong?" Daniel asked, immediately worried.

"I am sorry to disturb your rest, Good Son." Kasuf settled into a cross-legged position next to the younger man.

"It's okay. Wasn't sleeping anyway."

The old man's eyes met Daniel's. "This request disturbs you."

"Yes," Daniel answered flatly.

"Then why do you make it?"

Daniel considered his answer. Finally he spoke. "Because some things are more important."

"More important than my daughter's. . .your wife's. . .peace?"

Daniel nodded. "Yes." The younger man mimicked the older man's position and sat on the floor next to him. "If it's possible that Shaur'i is alive, I need to know that."

"You have told me that Ra was not a god."

"Right. He was a human, like you and me, inhabited by an evil being, called a Goa'uld," Daniel explained.

"And you have told me that a. . .Goa'uld. . .lived in my daughter."

"Yes. . .and Skaara as well," Daniel added with regret.

"Then if these Goa'ulds are not gods, how would it be possible that my daughter is alive? We saw her in death."

Daniel shook his head and closed his eyes. "The Goa'uld have technology which is more advanced than even what the Taur'i have. It can bring one back from the dead."

"And that is what you believe has happened to Shaur'i?"

"I don't know," Daniel admitted. "I think it's unlikely. . .but I have seen far more unlikely things occur."

"If she is alive, would the evil within her survive as well?"

"Yes. That's why we must know the truth. If she lives, then she knows the location of the child. . .the Harcesis. The child would be in danger."

Kasuf sat silently for a long while, his mind clearly running through all his options. Finally, the old man slowly pushed himself to a standing position. "Very well. You have my permission."

End Part 3

Inescapable

By Terri D. Thomas

Part 4

It was with great hesitancy that Kasuf attended the exhumation of Shaur'i's body. While he trusted Daniel's judgment, he considered the act to be a violation of all he believed; an omen of evil.

Daniel stood beside his father-in-law and the two men watched as Teal'c and Jack began to dig in the place where Shaur'i had been buried. On the other side of the widening hole stood Sam, Aldwin and Brasel.

Kasuf glanced at the younger man standing next to him, concern in his eyes. "You are certain this is necessary."

Daniel said nothing for a moment. Then he nodded. "Yes."

"You said last night that if she lives, the demon will still possess her, yes?"

Daniel nodded.

"Then truly only her body will live, not her heart. Nothing will have changed. My daughter will still be lost to me."

"Yes," Daniel answered quietly.

"Then I do this only to save the child."

Daniel shrugged his shoulders. "If she's alive, then maybe. . .perhaps. . .maybe. . .I'll be able to help her this time. . .." The words trailed off into nothingness.

Kasuf considered the comment. "Then it will be worth the risk."

Neither man said more, each absorbed in the memories of loss punctuated by the heavy breathing of the two men working below. Suddenly Teal'c's voice broke through the silence. "O'Neill, I have found something."

Jack kneeled down and used his fingers to uncover the dirt. Within minutes, he had exposed the dingy, dirt-encrusted shroud which had been tightly wrapped around Shaur'i's lifeless body a few short months before. By the shape and the positioning of the body within the grave, he knew he had found the woman's head. He reached for his knife and pulled it from its sheath. Carefully, he sliced away at the cloth.

The Colonel glanced up at Daniel. He knew that under normal circumstances, the unveiling of a corpse would have little effect on the archeologist. However, this was Daniel's wife. As expected, the younger man's eyes were averted. He seemed to have found a spot on the horizon to examine.

The Colonel's eyes then made contact with Kasuf's. Unlike his son-in-law, the leader was not turning away from the scene playing out in front of him. The brown orbs showed the same steadfast bravery that Jack had seen the first time he had met the man.

Jack redirected his attention to the body. He carefully peeled back the covering and examined the face beneath it.

Despite the fact that the corpse had been in this grave for many weeks, the body was in remarkably good condition. Jack could only guess that it was due to the dryness of the environment and the lack of oxygen in the soil.

The raven black hair of Daniel's wife was the first thing revealed. Then a moment later, he saw the lifeless features. There was no doubt. The body was that of Shaur'i's.

"It's her," Jack finally responded.

"Good Son?" Kasuf said as he looked at Daniel, confusion and pain in his eyes. "It is as I said. She does not live."

Daniel glanced into the grave and then back at his father-in-law. "I'm sorry," he mumbled, then turned and began a hasty retreat. "I'm so sorry," he repeated, even though Kasuf never heard the words.

Sam glanced down at her commander, an unspoken question in her eyes. The graying man nodded. Sam followed Daniel back to the buildings that made up the village. "Daniel, wait," she called out. Daniel stopped walking, but did not reply.

She laid a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Are you okay?"

Daniel closed his eyes and gave a small laugh. "Shouldn't have to do this again."

"No, you shouldn't. But we had to check."

"I know." He paused for a moment. "So the Tok'ra lied?"

Sam considered the suggestion. "No. . .there would be no reason. Something else is going on."

"What? What other explanation could there be? The Tok'ra lied or else. . .." Daniel swallowed deeply and composed himself. "Or else he was mistaken."

Sam nodded. "It's possible that there is another woman who looks like Shaur'i. Just a simple case of mistaken identity." Daniel turned away. Sam moved to stand in front of him again. "I am sorry."

"Damn it, he should have been certain. He should have made sure that there was no mistake." Daniel's words held barely contained rage. Sam returned her hand to his shoulder. The younger man jerked away. "Damn it, I should have made sure. I shouldn't have put Kasuf through this again."

"Daniel, Kasuf is a strong man. Don't worry about him."

The archeologist rubbed his hand over his eyes. "You don't understand. This was a violation of his daughter's peace. That's not something that his people take lightly. It's like a curse."

"We can't change it now," she whispered. "It's done. . .over. We know the truth now, but we can't change what we did."

Footsteps from behind interrupted the two. Sam turned around to find Aldwin. "I am sorry Dr. Jackson." He glanced at Sam and then back to Daniel. "But we had to be certain that Apophis' queen did not live."

"It's always about you, isn't it?" Daniel muttered, turning away again. "Everything in the Universe revolves around the Tok'ra. . .no one else matters to you."

"Daniel?" Sam interjected, surprised and concerned by her friend's sharp tone.

Daniel ignored the woman and took a step closer to Aldwin. "I am so tired of you manipulating every little detail of our lives and getting nothing in return. We're nothing to you, right?"

Aldwin's eyes widened in surprise, unable to hide his confusion at Daniel's words. Daniel, his emotions unhindered, continued. "From day one, you took advantage of us. You held us hostage and had no qualms about letting everyone on our world think we were dead, just so you could make a safe escape to a new world." Daniel took another step closer, until he was toe to toe with the Tok'ra. Aldwin took an instinctive step backwards, distancing himself from the angry man.

Daniel's face burned with the growing heat of rage and his verbal rampage continued. "Then you tell us that you won't trust us until we provide hosts. So we gave you hosts. . .but that wasn't good enough. You tell us that we have nothing to offer you because we are inferior to you, and then you ask for our help finding Seth. You tell us that we should help you infiltrate Netu. . .and why? Not to save Sam's father, but to find out more about Sokhar's plans. And we do it, gladly. And then we find out that you were willing to let us all die there." Daniel took another step towards the man. "And now you tell us that my wife is still alive. . .that I should have her grave dug up so that you can confirm that her death was a lie. . .that I should have her father ignore the fact that I have violated her peace. . .and for what? A case of mistaken identity?" Daniel's arms flew up and out, pushing the Tok'ra away angrily, causing him to stumble clumsily backwards. Daniel ignored the other man's plight. "Well, I've had enough. I've had enough of being your pawn. . .being your toy. . .."

"Dr. Jackson," a voice blared, interrupting Daniel's tirade. "That will be enough."

Startled, Daniel turned to face his commander. It was clear by the coldness in the Colonel's eyes that he was not pleased. "Kasuf needs your assistance," the graying man said. "Now," he finally emphasized.

Daniel glanced at Aldwin, then at Sam, seeing the surprise-laced disapproval in her eyes. Finally his gaze rested on Jack. Embarrassed blue eyes were quickly averted when they met brown. Daniel's attention dropped to the sand of Abydos and he shuffled off without saying more.

Jack moved to Sam's side. "What was that about?"

Sam shrugged her shoulders. "He's upset. This is really hard for him."

Aldwin's voice chimed in. "I do not blame him for his anger."

Sam smiled sadly. "Thank you for understanding."

Aldwin nodded and gave a slight smile in return. "I would react similarly if I were in his place."

"So, what's the story?" O'Neill asked, his words clearly indicating he wasn't in the mood for games. "How much do you trust the information from your operative?"

"The source is trustworthy, however, there is always a risk that the operative was in error about what he saw." Aldwin paused for a moment. Then he opened his mouth as if starting to speak again, then it was quickly closed.

"What?" Sam prodded.

"There is more that we need to discuss, but not here. . .not now." Aldwin turned away, leaving an air of mystery in his wake.

End Part 4

Inescapable

By Terri D. Thomas

Part 5

"I'm sorry." The whispered words broke through Kasuf's thoughts as he watched Teal'c fill in the newly dug hole where his daughter's body was held.

The old leader turned to the source of the sound. "I, too, am sorry, Good Son."

"I should have fought them. I shouldn't have let them convince me to do this." The heat of Daniel's anger at the Tok'ra had not faded.

Kasuf gave the younger man a slight smile. "Perhaps that is what I should be saying. However, my son, there was no choice. To be sure that the child was safe, we had to know the truth."

"Thank you for understanding."

Kasuf raised a weathered hand to his son-in-law's cheek. "I only wish that the truth had been different."

The man's brown eyes fixed on Daniel's blue for a long moment. Daniel had to turn away when he noted the barely contained tears building and threatening to spill down Kasuf's cheek.

"I must return." Kasuf's voice cracked with emotion. "I hope that you will join me for the midday meal before you return to the planet of the Taur'i."

Daniel nodded. He didn't turn back to the older man until he heard Kasuf leaving.

"I, too, am sorry, Daniel Jackson."

Daniel kept his back to Teal'c. "Thank you."

"I had hoped that your wife would be alive."

"Me too." Daniel turned to stare at the now covered grave. "I just wanted. . .another chance."

Teal'c was silent for a moment. Then he moved closer to his friend. "As did I," he whispered and then walked away.

Kasuf watched as the husband of his daughter followed the people of the Taur'i and the Tok'ra up the stairs to the shimmering blue of the Stargate.

"You will come back to us?" he asked of the younger man.

Daniel turned and smiled. "I will return."

Kasuf reached out a hand and grasped Daniel's. "You must. Remember, this place, too, is your home."

Daniel's face showed his appreciation at the words. He nodded and then followed the rest of the team through the event horizon.

Within seconds, he had traveled across the galaxy and into the embarkation room of the SGC.

"Welcome home, SG-1," Hammond's voice boomed over the speaker. "Briefing at 0900 hours per SOP."

Aldwin stepped forward. "Brasel and I must return to the Tok'ra and report what we have learned."

"But you said that you had more to tell us," Sam reminded.

Daniel, an edge still in his words, interrupted. "You can't just leave now. Not after what you've done. . .what you had us do."

"We must first speak with the Counsel." Aldwin's words made it clear that there would be no room for discussion. "We will return upon receiving our instructions."

Hammond, observing from the control room, interrupted. "Very well. You may go. However, we do expect a full explanation of what has occurred."

"I will provide the coordinates," Brasel volunteered.

Within minutes, the blue light of the event horizon lit the room and the Tok'ra members were gone, leaving a speechless SG-1 in their wake.

"Debriefing, Kids," Jack's voice echoed after the wormhole disengaged.

"What just happened?" Daniel whispered, his eyes fixed on the transportation ring.

"Huh?" Jack asked.

"What the hell just happened here?" Daniel repeated, voice louder.

Jack's hand connected with Daniel's shoulders firmly. "They're gonna talk to the big wigs. . .figure out what they can and can't tell us. You know, typical Tok'ra bullshit."

The Colonel turned and left the room, Sam following. Teal'c remained behind, his attention directed at his young team member, concern in his eyes. "They said they will return."

Daniel shook his head. "Yeah. . .a lot of good that does me now."

"Perhaps they will be able to explain their actions."

"They should be able to explain them now."

"That is not the Tok'ra way," Teal'c reasoned.

"No."

Teal'c made his way to the doorway. Daniel watched the large Jaffa leave the room. Resigned, he finally followed. Hearing the footsteps behind him, Teal'c turned and waited on Daniel to catch up to him. Shortening his stride, he walked with the young archeologist to the elevator which would take them to the infirmary for the standard medical checkup.

Silence remained between the two men until they entered the elevator. Once the door had closed, Daniel finally spoke. "What did you mean earlier about 'wanting another chance?'"

Teal'c's brown eyes met Daniel's blue. "I know that you say you have found it possible to forgive me for what I did to Shaur'i, however, I find that I still have a difficult time coming to terms with the result of my actions."

Daniel's gaze broke away and drifted to the floor. "I know that you did it to save my life."

"But it does not alleviate the pain that you feel. And for that, I wish I could change what I have done. I had hoped that Shaur'i might live so that I could. . ."

"Live with yourself?" Daniel guessed.

Teal'c considered the words. "Yes."

Daniel gave the man a half-smile. "I feel the same way."

"Why? You did not cause her death."

Daniel was silent for a moment then he shook his head. "Because I failed her just the same. I should've found a way to help her."

"You tried. That is all any one can do."

"But I didn't save her. I couldn't get through. . .." The young man's words drifted off.

"You should not punish yourself over what happened with Shaur'i. I am the one who failed you. . .failed you both."

Daniel closed his eyes. His mind flashed on the images that had flooded him while Amaunet had inflicted the ribbon device upon him. Before he could respond to Teal'c's self-depreciating statement, the elevator doors had opened and Teal'c had left the car.

The claxon of the alarm echoed through the facility indicating the arrival of a traveler through the Stargate. It broke into Sam's concentration. She chuckled to herself and then returned her attention to working on modifications to the Naqada reactor.

Over time, she had finally conquered the overwhelming need to run to the Control Room every time the announcement was made that the Stargate was in use. Frankly, it was wearing her out. With all of the SG teams on mission rotations, the embarkation room's activity was starting to compete with Union Station. When the SGC had started the exploratory project over three years ago, she never would have guessed that the Stargate would be so popular.

She slid the small needle-nosed pliers into the machine. Before she could put them to use, footsteps approaching her lab caught her attention. "We're up," Col. O'Neill announced from the doorway. "The Tok'ra have returned."

"What? Oh. . .," Sam answered, surprised. It had only been a couple of hours since Aldwin and Brasel had left.

"We're meeting in the conference room right now."

Sam grabbed for the cloth next to her lab table and wiped her hands. "I'm right behind you."

By the time Sam had made it to the conference room, everyone concerned had already found their place at the large table. Daniel, Teal'c and Jack, were on one side. Aldwin and Brasel were on the other. General Hammond was at the head of the table. Sam quickly took position next to Brasel.

Once the blond Major was settled, Aldwin spoke. "We have discussed the situation with the Tok'ra counsel. They have given us authorization to reveal certain classified information with you.

"God bless'em," O'Neill muttered to no one in particular.

"The operative on Chulak has confirmed the information originally provided. Shaur'i. . .Amaunet has been seen on the planet."

Daniel closed his eyes, trying desperately to remain calm. "It's a mistake. . .obviously. My. . .wife. . .is. . .not. . .alive." Each word was punctuated with growing intensity.

"Perhaps not," Brasel answered. "But the fact remains that someone who looks like her has been seen on Chulak." The man's words remained calm despite the tension. "This incongruity might confirm the validity of other intelligence." The young Tok'ra glanced at Daniel, but turned away quickly when he found he was facing blazing blue eyes.

General Hammond's voice cut in. "What intelligence?"

"It has been rumored for many years that certain Goa'uld System Lords have been. . .experimenting. . .with new processes to duplicate human life through asexual reproduction," Aldwin answered.

"What?" Daniel exclaimed, his anger barely contained, knowing the impact of what the Tok'ra was implying. "That's impossible."

Hammond directed questioning eyes to O'Neill. O'Neill shrugged, mystified. Both men turned to Carter, knowing that an answer would soon be forthcoming.

"Cloning?" the woman stated, holding true to all they knew about her.

Aldwin's brows furrowed. "We do not use that term, but if it is the word used by your people to describe this process, then yes. . .cloning."

End Part 5

Inescapable

By: Terri D. Thomas

Part 6

"Cloning?" O'Neill exclaimed.

"Yes, Sir," Sam volunteered. "It's the process where an embryo is placed in a petri dish and is allowed to develop into a mass of two to eight cells. Next, a chemical solution is added that dissolves the zona pellucida that covers the embryo. The zona pellucida is a protective protein that. . .."

Sam's words were cut short by the sudden "Stop!" that came from the Colonel. "I know what cloning is, Major. I don't need the play-by-play."

The woman shrank back, chastised by her actions. "Sorry, Sir."

"That's okay, I know you can't help it," the man mumbled.

"You've got to be kidding," Daniel exploded. "You're trying to say that my wife was cloned. Why? What would they have to gain? They have access to all the humans they need for hosts, don't they? Why in the hell would they want to create more?"

"Human hosts are sometimes. . .difficult to control," Brasel offered.

"Difficult to control?" O'Neill frowned at the man's choice of words.

"Yes. The Tok'ra enter into the relationship with a human on a voluntary basis. Both parties agree to the joining, which ultimately leads to a productive and rewarding relationship." Brasel's head then dropped. When it arose again, his eyes glowed briefly. His voice deepened when he spoke indicating that his Tok'ra implant had taken over. "However, if there is not unity of mind between the symbiote and host, there can be conflict. Normally, the Goa'uld can control the host by inflicting pain until the host is no longer able to combat the influence. However at times the host can fight the symbiote. . .implant thoughts. . . induce actions. . .betray the Goa'uld."

"Like Shaur'i did with Amaunet?" Daniel interrupted.

"Of what do you refer?" Brasel's symbiote voice asked.

"I think Shaur'i was able to influence Amaunet into drawing me to her, so that she could relay a message to me through the ribbon device."

Before Brasel could respond, Sam jumped in, directing her attention to the General. "Even if the Goa'uld are experimenting with cloning, I don't think that it's possible that Shaur'i was cloned, Sir."

"Why is that, Major?"

"Yeah," O'Neill followed. "It's been done with sheep, right?"

"Yes, Sir. However, presuming that the Goa'uld were successfully able to keep a cloned human embryo alive and viable, it would require the same number of years for development as the original."

Daniel, forcing his scientific mind forward, clarified. "Meaning it would take approximately nine months for the gestation period."

Sam nodded. "And years to create any being that would even remotely look like Shaur'i."

Aldwin shook his head. "We do not know for certain that this is what has occurred to Shaur'i, however we do believe it is one possible explanation."

"You heard what Major Carter said," General Hammond retorted. "It does not appear that cloning is what's going on here. There just hasn't been enough time."

"Even if my wife was cloned when she was taken, she could only be three years old," Daniel added, voice strained.

The room was silent for a moment. Then a whispered word came from Jack. "Argos."

Teal'c, hearing the single word, knew immediately to what his friend was referring. "Nanocytes."

"What?" Hammond asked.

Before answering, Sam looked at Daniel, gauging his reaction, knowing that he understood the implication. Her friend, however, appeared to be lost in thought, his eyes fixed on the table. She could only imaging the nightmares that this discussion was dredging up for him. "Uh. . .well. . .I think, General, that the Colonel and Teal'c are wondering if the nanite technology on Argos could have been used. . ."

"To accelerate aging. . .," Jack completed.

"It was Goa'uld technology which aged the Argosians," Teal'c stated. "It would be quite logical for that technology to be used in other Goa'uld experiments."

"So what are we saying here?" the General pushed impatiently.

Once again, Sam looked at Daniel, trying to read the emotions he was feeling. His face was blank, his body was stiff, his eyes, unresponsive. She swallowed, carefully phrasing her answer. "Well, Sir, I think that what is being said is that *if* cloning technology is being used by the Goa'uld, then the natural aging process of a cloned cell could be accelerated by the nanocytes which were used on Argos." She leaned forward, arms on table, clearly directing her next words at Daniel. "However, that's still a big if."

"No, it is not," Aldwin countered. "We do have evidence that certain System Lords are doing these cloning experiments."

Sam nodded, confidence replacing doubt. "We also know that there is the genetic memory in place. A single Goa'uld could combine the nanite technology with cloning experiments. Who knows what they would come up with?"

"Shaur'i," Daniel whispered from his side of the table.

No one spoke, each contemplating Daniel's conclusion. Finally, General Hammond took control of the meeting. "Let's presume you are correct. What would be the purpose of creating a copy of Dr. Jackson's wife?"

"Could be a trap," O'Neill guessed.

"Yes. There is a significant bounty which has been placed on our lives," Teal'c stated.

"And this is some snakehead's way of collecting on it? Sweet," Jack sneered.

"I do not believe this would be the purpose of the effort," Aldwin stated. "While it is true that the Taur'i have irritated the Goa'uld, I do not believe that this. . .experiment has been completed for the sole purpose of capturing you."

"Then what?" Jack asked, impatience in his voice.

"We do not know."

"Great, then we assume it's a trap," Jack huffed and sat back in his chair.

"So, Sir, what do we do?" Sam asked.

"We've got to go to Chulak," Daniel quickly suggested, not giving the General a chance to answer.

"Are you cracked?" O'Neill leaned forward, eyes boring into Daniel. "We aren't exactly welcomed guests on that planet and since our Tok'ra buddies here can't tell us why or even if a copy of Shaur'i is walking around, then we have to take for granted that we're being set up."

"No, Jack. . .listen. I have to go to Chulak. If there's a chance. . .a chance that Shaur'i is there, I've got to. . .."

"Daniel, wait a second. Shaur'i isn't there. If it is her, it's only a copy. . .and that's only if what the Tok'ra are saying is true," Sam rationalized.

Daniel stood up quickly. "No, you don't understand. My wife is dead, I know that. But a part of her. . .is alive. I have to see that for myself. Perhaps. . .maybe. . .this time. . .I can help."

End Part 6

Inescapable

By Terri D. Thomas

Part 7

Daniel's hand tightened around the small ceremonial pot. It was one of the few items that he had which served as a remembrance of his marriage to Shaur'i.

Kasuf's sister had given the pot, which had contained aromatic massage oils, to the happy couple. He remembered Shaur'i's coy grin as the older woman pulled her aside, glanced at Daniel and handed her niece the pot. Small giggles filled the air behind the two, as other women from the village looked on in amusement and maybe, even, a little envy. Daniel recalled the fever of embarrassment, far exceeding the heat generated by the Abydonian desert, rushing up his face.

"Daniel Jackson." The deep baritone of Teal'c's voice broke Daniel from his thoughts.

Daniel glanced at the doorway, making eye contact with the new visitor, and quickly replaced the pot. "Uh. . .yeah?" He cleared his throat and moved to the opposite side of the desk. "You need something?"

"I have come to see if you are. . .all right." The words were stilted as Teal'c tried to mimic the colloquialism that he had so often heard from his friends.

"Oh. . .well. . .yeah, I'm. . .okay," Daniel answered as he picked up a file folder and began to fumble through its contents, ignoring Teal'c's gaze.

Teal'c raised an eyebrow, indicating his doubt. "You do not appear to be. . .okay."

Daniel's mouth twitched with the barest smile. He placed the file back on the desk. "I feel like I'm in a dream. . .or a nightmare."

"That is understandable. This news is unexpected."

Daniel collapsed into the chair. "I just never expected that something like this could happen. And now, it has me thinking things. . .things that I don't know how to deal with."

"What type of. . .things?" Teal'c probed gently.

Daniel's fingers reached under his glasses and rubbed at his tired eyes. "What if. . .what the Tok'ra said is true? What if they cloned her?"

"I do not fully understand the technology. I do not know what the impact would be in our fight against the Goa'uld."

A small laugh escaped Daniel's lips. "No. . .not that. I meant. . .well. . .," he stuttered, then paused for a moment. "Never mind."

Teal'c tilted his head. "Do you wonder if Shaur'i is really dead?"

Daniel's eyes widened in amazement. "How did you. . .?"

Teal'c gave his friend his best all-knowing look. "I have also wondered about the prospect. It is possible, is it not, that you confronted a clone of Shaur'i on P8X-873."

The archeologist shrugged his shoulders and his gaze fell to his hands clasped on the table in front of him. Teal'c moved closer. "However, did not Shaur'i convey messages to you with the ribbon device?"

Daniel shrugged his shoulders a second time. "Well. . .yeah. . .."

"Would a duplicate of her be able to do that?"

"I don't know," Daniel sighed. "But if it's at all possible that Shaur'i is still alive on Chulak, I can't sit around here and do nothing."

"What would you do?" the Jaffa asked.

"I have to go to Chulak," the man whispered. "I have to find the truth for myself."

Teal'c considered the words. "That would be unwise."

"I know how dangerous it would be, but that doesn’t matter to me." Daniel stood and moved across the room, keeping his back to the larger man. "I have to find a way to convince the General to let me go."

"To let us go," Teal'c corrected. Daniel turned, giving the warrior a gentle look and a slight nod. Teal'c tilted his head. "And what if General Hammond does not come to the same conclusion?" Daniel turned away again. He did not answer the question. Teal'c frowned at the silent response. "You would defy General Hammond's orders?"

"I have to find the truth, Teal'c. One way or the other," Daniel said, the words still quiet.

Teal'c thought about the answer. He took a step towards his teammate. "I will join you, Daniel Jackson."

"Can't let you do that," a gruff voice interrupted from the doorway. Jack O'Neill stepped into the small office. He gave the two occupants his best disapproving glare. "It's rarely a good idea to plot a court-martialable offense with the door wide open."

Daniel, startled at the new voice, turned to face the man. "As you might recall, Jack, I can't be court-martialed."

Jack directed his gaze at Teal'c, and tilted his head toward the door. "We'll talk later."

Teal'c, understanding the subtle hint, bowed slightly to the archeologist and Colonel, then left the room.

Jack turned back to his friend. "You're a bad influence, Dr. Jackson."

"I didn't ask him to come. He volunteered." Daniel's gaze was directed at the pottery on the desk.

"Of course he volunteered," Jack sighed. "He feels guilty about what happened with Shaur'i. He thinks that accompanying you to Chulak is his duty." Daniel remained silent. Jack edged over to the desk and planted himself on the corner, his gaze still directed at the younger man. "It's a stupid idea to return to Chulak."

Daniel swallowed down his anger at the words. "It's something I have to do."

"Why? So you can get yourself killed trying to follow a rumor? That's all it is, Daniel, a rumor. Hell, it's not even your wife you're trying to find. It's a copy. That's it. Not the real thing."

Daniel's anger rose. "We don't know that, Jack."

Mystified, Jack's eyebrows furrowed. "What do you mean?"

Daniel thought about his response. "What if. . .what if it was a copy that Teal'c killed. . .not the real thing?"

The tension in Jack's voice matched his friend's. "It's wishful thinking, Daniel. The snake was in her, or don't you remember?"

"Oh I remember, Jack! Sometimes that's all I can remember!" The words were harsh, the blue eyes filled with rage.

Jack's face immediately softened, the regret apparent. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that. All I'm saying is that Shau. . .Amaunet," he corrected quickly, "was the Goa'uld who tried to kill you with the ribbon device. You know that. And since she has occupied Shaur'i's body, the logical conclusion is that it was your Shaur'i on that planet. You had no doubts about that before. What the Tok'ra have told us shouldn't change what you perceived." He paused for a moment and then quietly added "That's all I meant."

Daniel shook his head. "I could have been wrong. I didn't realize it was possible that. . .." His words trailed off. He took a deep breath and turned away. "I have to go."

"Not possible, Daniel. There's no way Hammond's going to take that risk for unconfirmed intelligence."

"Don't care," the younger man muttered quietly. "Gotta go."

A hand firmly clasped Daniel's shoulder. "You're not thinking straight. There's a good possibility that this is a setup. . .a trap."

"But we don't know that. There's a chance it's not."

"It's not worth the risk."

Daniel spun on the Colonel, his eyes hard. "Would you be saying that if Charlie was the one we were talking about?"

The sudden change in Daniel's attack startled Jack. "Wha. . .?"

Daniel exploded. "Why is it that everyone else is worth the risk? Huh, Jack?"

Jack stared at his friend, speechless. The younger man's ranting continued. "Rya'c is taken by Apophis, we go to Chulak at the drop of a hat. Same thing with Jacob. Hell, we get a report he's in. . .Hell, and we go to save him. No second thoughts." Daniel paused for a moment, catching his breath. "Why is it different now? Why is it different for me?"

Jack allowed the explosion of words to die down before responding. When his voice finally returned, it was cold and analytical. "I think you're a smart enough man to see the difference, Doctor." Before he could continue, there was a light knock on the door, causing both men to turn.

An Airman was standing at attention in the doorway. "I'm sorry to disturb you, Colonel, but General Hammond has asked that you report to his office immediately."

Jack gave the man a curt nod. "Thanks." He turned back to Daniel. "We'll talk about this later."

"There's nothing to talk about."

Jack started to respond, paused and then shook his head. "Later," he finally mumbled and turned to the door, exiting the room.

He had taken no more than two steps away from the archeologist's office when a deep voice sounded from behind. "Daniel Jackson will not change his opinion about this matter."

Jack turned to Teal'c, frowning at the larger man. "You were eavesdropping?"

Teal'c skeptically raised an eyebrow. "I dropped no eaves." Before O'Neill could continue, the Jaffa spoke again. "However, I could not help but hear the discussion between the two of you."

"You were spying?"

Teal'c gave the man the barest hint of a grin. "As Dr. Frasier has indicated, I have very good hearing."

Jack shook his head and continued his trek to the General's office. "Daniel doesn't understand the risk."

Teal'c matched his commander's stride. "No, his feelings are controlling his thoughts. He is not thinking rationally."

Jack let out a snort. "Then why in the hell did you encourage him by saying you'd help?"

"Because you have taught me, O'Neill, that some things are more important than risk. I believe that helping Daniel Jackson find the truth is one of these things."

Jack stopped walking, somewhat surprised by the response he received. He stared into the larger man's eyes for a moment, trying to detect even the slightest sign of doubt. There was none. Shaking his head, he left the Jaffa in the hallway and entered Hammond's office.

End Part 7

To SG-1 Page