Hunter's Bane

Title: Hunter's Bane
Author: Tels
Fandom: Stargate SG1
Characters: Jacob/Selmak
Rating: R
Prompt: #1 Beginnings word count 8230
Prompt: #2 Middles word count 8308
Prompt: #3 Ends word count ????
Summary: Garshaw sends Jacob on a mission. One from which he might not return.

Hunter's Bane
By Tels

Jacob looked down at the pad and then over at Garshaw and the other council members. “Alright,” he answered, his stomach turning slightly within him. “When do you want us to leave?”

“Immediately,” one of the elder councilman replied.

Jacob nodded slowly, feeling Selmak's reaction mirroring his as she pulled back from him sharply. “We'll pack and be ready to go in an hour.”

Garshaw looked at him. “We did not take this decision lightly,” she said. “Selmak knows the territory; she has been there before and …”

“I said alright.” He smiled briefly at her to take the edge of the sharpness of his tone, then quickly remembered where he was. He stood up and nodded towards the council. “I'll see you when I get back.”

Garshaw stood up and made to follow.

Delek looked over at her. “There was one more matter I wish to discuss,” he announced. “And I am afraid it can not wait.”

Garshaw looked at him. She had sent people on missions before but this was different. She cared for Jacob in a way she had not cared for anyone in a long time. “I will return in a few moments,” she said, giving Delek no option.

Several of the elder high council members nodded, guessing she wanted to say goodbye in private.

Delek opened his mouth to object but was cut short by one of the other council members.

“A short recess then,” he said, nodding to Garshaw. “We will continue in ten minutes.”

Yosef sighed in relief. She wanted to see Jacob and Selmak one last time properly before her mate left for his mission. She and Garshaw walked slowly from the council chambers, quickening their pace once they were out of sight to catch up with Jacob.

Jacob heard footsteps coming up from behind him and stopped as he recognised them as Garshaw's. He turned and smiled as she reached him. Pulling her around the corner, he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her. “I wanted to do that throughout the entire meeting,” he whispered.

Garshaw kissed him back. “I don't want you to go,” she said between kisses.

“I know,” he told her. “But we'll be back in a few days.”

Yosef looked at him. “I know you will be, but the risks…”

Jacob put a finger on her lips. “There will always be risks my love,” he said. “We accept them, just like we always do. You need the best man for the job out there and I guess I'm it.”

Garshaw smiled. “I can think of a task better suited to your particular talents,” she whispered, running a finger down his chest.

Jacob laughed quietly. “Incorrigible woman… and I thought Selmak had a one track mind.”

Garshaw kissed him. “We corrupt each other then,” she said.

Jacob pulled her closer, taking in her scent and her touch, not wanting to let go and wishing this moment could last forever. “You and Yosef take care,” he said.

“We will… you and Selmak do the same.” Her arms tightened around him as he kissed her deeply.

Several moments later his lips parted from hers. “We love you both very much,” he whispered, slightly out of breath.

“As we love you both.”

“See you in a few days my loves,” he smiled, caressing her face.

Garshaw looked at him. “We don't want you to go,” she told him. She had a bad feeling about this but wasn't sure if that was purely because it was her lover she was sending this time or not.

Jacob nodded. “I know, but I have to go.” He kissed her gently. “Best not keep them waiting for you. We love you.”

Reluctantly Garshaw pulled away and headed back to the council chambers. She sat down at the table with the other council members and looked at Delek. “What is it you wish to discuss?” she asked. She tried to concentrate on what Delek was saying but neither she nor Yosef could. Her mind was with Jacob and Selmak.

Jacob watched her go and then made his way back to his chamber and changed out of his uniform, into the heavily ornamented robes that would befit the Goa'uld he was to become. The entire time he had a sick feeling in his gut. He wasn't sure if it was his feelings or Selmak's feelings causing it. <Selmak are you okay?> Worried when he didn't get an answer he reached out for her. She hadn't even wanted to come fore with Garshaw just now which was most unlike her. <Sel… what's wrong? Come on I know something's bothering you what is it?>

Selmak's voice was much quieter than normal. There was a quiver to it. 

<Your name isn't Jonah> Jacob started to tease but broke off as he could feel her trembling. <Hey you really are scared… that's not like you. Even in Netu you weren't this scared…>

Selmak shook within him. <Please Jacob> she begged. 

< We can do this. You're not alone> He said, hugging her securely. Jacob picked up his pack and then headed towards Malek's office. He stuck his head round the door. “You busy?” he asked.

Malek looked up and smiled. “Never too busy for you my friend.” He looked at Aldwin. “We'll finish this later.” He waited until Aldwin had left and then looked at Jacob. “What's up?”

Jacob sat down, hung his head and let out a heavy sigh.

Malek got up and came round the desk. “Jacob?” He sat next to him and put a hand on his arm. “What's wrong?”

“Nothing,” he told him. “I'm going undercover for a mission the Council has sent Selmak on. I shouldn't even be talking to you but…”

Malek squeezed his arm. “It's alright, my lips are sealed. What's wrong?”

Jacob took a deep breath and changed his mind over what he was going to say. He looked up at Malek. “I just wanted to say goodbye that's all. And ask a favour.”

“Jacob?” Malek asked.

Jacob put a hand on Malek's shoulder. “I should go…“ He held out three envelopes. “Can you make sure these two get to Sam please?” he asked. “The other one is for Garshaw and Yosef.”

Malek took them. “When should I send them?”

Jacob stood up. “You'll know when,” he said quietly. He looked at Malek. “Goodbye my friend.” Then he turned and headed from the room.

Malek looked down at the letters in his hand; if he didn't know better… He locked the letters away and sat back down at his desk.

Jared hugged him. <What's on your mind?> he asked.

Malek sighed. <I'll respect Jacob's request with the letters but there is something bothering him. I would go and ask Garshaw but she will not tell me anything even if she could do so.>

Jared nodded. <But Mal, Jacob has done this hundreds of time, Selmak thousands of times. They are both resilient and will come home.>

Malek smiled despite himself. <Isn't that my line?> he asked.

Jared shrugged. <Hey is there a law against me using your lines against you?>

<Malek they will come home, they always have before.>

<Worry wart. Take a chill pill and do some work.>

Jacob reached the ring room and slowly headed towards the controls. <Selmak we need to talk about this. I can't go on this mission if I don't know all the details…> There was still no answer, but just an overwhelming desire to be someplace else. He sighed. <Sel please… you've come across this Goa'uld before yes?>

<Yes…> she whispered finally. <Promise me this time you'll kill him…>

Jacob's hand paused over the control. <What? We haven't been sent to take him out…>

<Please Jacob… I'm begging you… he has to die…>

<Why and don't just give me the ‘it's because he's a Goa'uld' line here.>

Selmak shook slightly. <Okay… ring up to the surface and I'll tell you there.>

Jacob did as she asked and then climbed to the top of the cliffs. <Talk to me Sel>

Selmak shook within him. <I…> she whispered. <It's hard … I have never spoken about it… not to anyone. The memories have been locked up for over a hundred years.>

Jacob hugged her tightly. He had known there was something as periodically she had nightmares he had glimpses of but nothing more than that.

 Selmak said quietly.

<We know several system lords Sel… what makes this one different?>

Selmak shifted uncomfortably within him. <Not like this… I know him… Aries has, shall we say an intimate way of dealing with female prisoners> Selmak whispered after long pause. <Especially with the ones who won't co-operate with him under normal torture methods.>

Jacob closed his eyes. <Oh Sel…>

<He forced me dormant and took Saroosh then made sure I was fore and took me… And there was nothing I could do…>

Jacob hugged her tightly.

Jacob held her as she began to sob, the memories playing over in her mind again, this time she wasn't blocking them. Jacob had always despised men who raped women but this was something else. He was experiencing it from the woman's point of view. He held her tightly, doing his best to comfort her and promising her that if the opportunity presented itself Aries would die. Once she had calmed down slightly he got up and headed back to the Stargate.

The mission which had been so simple at first was now more complicated. They had been told to get in, retrieve the information and get out, portraying a minor Goa'uld which they had spent several months previously setting up. However as Aries knew Selmak, in more ways than one, there was a chance that would not work. The one chance they did have was that she was now in a different host. He arrived at the gate and looked in surprise at the young girl standing there next to Delek. “Marta?” he said.

Marta smiled nervously at him. She was not yet a host, but one of a few who lived with the Tok'ra as potential hosts. She hadn't had much to do with the council, aside from her initial interview and the thought of going on a mission with one of the actual high councillors was slightly daunting. This wasn't her first mission by any stroke of the imagination, and she knew she could cope, but Delek had made a few things clear on the way to the gate. Things she hadn't realised she'd need to do. “The council said I was to accompany you as your chyff'oden,” she said looking at him. She'd been surprised that Garshaw had agreed to this, seeing as how everyone knew she and Jacob were heavily involved.

Jacob looked at her. “They what?” he asked. He knew most Goa'uld travelled with at least one human slave, usually to act as concubine or lotar but in this case that was hardly appropriate or sensible. “I'm sorry but not this time.”

“She is going with you,” Delek said, “The council do not wish you to go alone. Marta is going with you.”

Jacob grabbed Delek's arm and dragged him out of earshot. “How dare you!” he began.

Delek shook himself free. “I dare because the council insist,” he told him. “A Goa'uld of the type you are portraying travels with a human slave. Marta is therefore going to accompany you.”

“And if Aries sees her and wants her?” Jacob hissed.

Delek just smiled. “You'll think of something.” He looked at Jacob. “You know full well that you have to take an unblended human with you. The council feel that Marta is the best choice.”

Jacob took a deep breath. “Delek you know how important this is…”

“Are you saying you are incapable of completing the mission with her accompanying you?”

“You know I'm not saying that at all. But this is hardly the mission to…”

“Objection noted.” Delek's tone indicated the conversation was over.

Jacob's eyes narrowed and he turned away. Then he headed back over to where Marta stood. He nodded slightly to her. “You do exactly what I say,” he said. “You stay silent unless spoken to and you do nothing unless I instruct you. You will serve me at meals if we eat in public and when you address me you call me my lord.”

Marta nodded. “Yes my lord.”

Jacob smiled. “And never look me in the eyes. Always keep your eyes lower than mine.” He paused. “There is one more thing. As you are my slave I will have to treat you as such, but I won't lay a hand on you in punishment. I'm not that kind of man and would never do so even if it was an act.”

Marta nodded. “I understand.”

Jacob put a hand on her shoulder. “You'll be fine,” he said as much to Selmak as to her. Then he moved over to the DHD and dialled out. <We can do this Sel> he told her. <Even if things have got complicated.>

<Jacob what if Aries…> Selmak whispered, deathly afraid for Marta as well as herself and her host.

Jacob hugged her. <We'll be fine. And I'll take care of the girl. I promise.>

Selmak nodded, still scared but determined not to let her fear scupper the mission completely. She watched as Jacob moved through the gate and out into the bright sunshine of Thalia.

The city of Thalia was on Aries home world of Tarantino. The gate itself was in the heart of the city and as expected was guarded. The palace was set on a hill top some distance away. Aries had it built there as it gave him views over the entire city and the surrounding countryside. More importantly the entire city and surrounding countryside were constantly reminded of his presence and lordship over them.

Jacob hugged Selmak tightly. <You can do this.>

 she whispered.

Jacob nodded and assumed her voice, letting his eyes flash slightly as he looked at the jaffa guarding the foot of the gate. “My name is Khlar. I have business with the traders here.”

The jaffa nodded and let him through. One of them immediately headed off, presumably to the palace to report the arrival of this Goa'uld to Aries.

Jacob moved confidently through the jaffa and down the steps.

Marta kept slightly behind him, carrying his bag as well as her own. “Where to my lord?” she asked him

“First stop is finding lodgings,” he said. “Then we conduct our business here.”

Marta nodded and followed Jacob across the town square to what looked like a hotel of some kind. She let Jacob go up to the desk and inquire about a room. As luck would have it they had one left that would befit someone of Jacob's station. She thought it was sickening the way the hotel manager fawned over Jacob and buttered him up, although Jacob appeared to be revelling in it. He accepted the offer of the drink and sent Marta to check on the room.

She looked at him and nodded. “Yes my lord.”

Jacob looked at her. “Make sure the room meets my specific… needs,” he said emphasising the words needs.

Marta inclined her head and followed the bellboy out of the lobby carrying the bags.

“A pretty girl,” the manager said.

Jacob nodded. “And mine,” he said firmly. He counted slowly until Marta returned and then looked at her expectantly.

“The room is well situated my lord,” she said. “There is one bed and ample floor space and bathing facilities.”

Jacob nodded. “Very good. We will return later.” He put the wine glass down and headed out of the building, Marta scrambling to keep up with him.

He spent a fruitless few hours trying to track down the information that the council wanted but it eluded him at every turn. Finally as it was starting to get dark he decided to return to the hotel.

Marta had spent the time watching the way he dealt with people, trying to learn as she kept herself as inconspicuous as possible.

On returning to the hotel Jacob instructed Marta to take him to their room and then go and get food for them both. While she did that he looked round the room and checked it for bugs or other kinds of listening devices. Satisfied there were none he sat down and waited for Marta's return. When she finally did come back, having taken far longer than necessary, she had company in the form of two jaffa.

Jacob was relieved she was finally back. However he had to hide that relief because of the jaffa. He glared at her. “You took your time!” he yelled towering over her. “I told you to be quick!” His eyes flashed showing his displeasure.

“I'm sorry,” she said. “I got talking and I…”

“SHUT UP!” Jacob growled his eyes glowing harshly. “You forget your place! Just because you share my bed does not give you the right to disobey me or fail to address me correctly!”

“I am sorry my lord,” Marta managed , letting her eyes show a small degree of humiliation, understanding that she needed to play out her part. “My lord… the jaffa…”

Jacob glared at her then up at the jaffa. “What do you want?” he asked his tone dangerous now.

One of the jaffa held out a letter. “Lord Aries sends his compliments and wishes you to dine with him in three days time.”

He instantly felt Selmak trembling as she withdrew. It was best that she did because otherwise her emotions would overwhelm him and now was not the time for such show of weakness.

<Damn> Jacob muttered. “I will see what I can do. I only have limited time here to do what I need to and…”

The jaffa wordlessly held out a letter.

Rolling his eyes slightly Jacob snatched it and read it. <So that's how the cookie crumbles…> “Very well, tell your master we will join him for dinner three days from now.”

The jaffa nodded and left once Jacob had written a formal reply.

Marta didn't dare move until she was told to. She hardly even dared breathe while the jaffa were still in the room.

Jacob watched the jaffa leave and then slammed the door. “You alright?” he asked.

She nodded. “Yeah, got talking in the kitchen, with the other lotars.”

Jacob nodded. “I was worried as you were gone for so long and when you came back with company I had to play the part. Just like I will the next few days if needs be.”

Marta looked at him. “As you should do,” she said.

Jacob smiled. “We should eat,” he said. “It's been a long day and tomorrow will be too.” He got up and brought the tray over.

Marta looked at him. “I was given one lord's meal and one slave's meal,” she said noting the way he looked at the two very different meals. “When I said something I was told a slave was lucky to be given anything at all. In some places she would be expected to eat the crumbs off her master's plate.”

Jacob nodded and then handed her the plate of good food. “Here,” he said. “Eat it quickly.”

“What about you?” she asked.

“This is fine,” he told her starting to eat the slave's portion. “Eat and then take the tray back to the kitchen. If anyone asks you to stay tell them your lord requires you.”

Marta nodded. She didn't have much of an appetite as she was worried about what Delek had told her when he briefed her on this mission.

Jacob looked over at her. “Have you practised serving at a meal yet?” he asked.

She nodded. “Once or twice. I even managed to trip and drop a bowl of soup in Delek's lap.” She laughed. “You should have seen the look on his face. He wasn't sure if I'd done it on purpose or not.” She left out the fact that he was coming on to her at the time.

Jacob smiled. “Just do what the others do but serve only me. Make sure my plate and glass are never empty and whatever you do don't fall foul of Aries.”

“Okay.”

He smiled. “It's easier than it sounds. We have time to practice before our dinner date with Aries.”

“Interesting way of looking at it, but thank you.” She ate all on her plate and then took the tray back to the kitchen area. She collected the jug of wine and the goblet and then returned to the room.

Jacob had bathed quickly and changed while she was gone.

Marta came back into the room and pulled out the slave's bedding roll. She set it out on the floor and then sat on it, staring across the room her thoughts taking her miles away.

Jacob looked at her. “What's wrong?” he asked her.

“Nothing,” she replied evasively. “I'm just tired.”

Jacob nodded and watched her for a moment, but she made no effort to lie down and try to sleep. “Marta is something bothering you?”

She shook her head. “No, it's just…” she broke off.

“Just what?” Jacob asked. He held out a hand. “Come here.”

Marta got up and crossed over to him, sitting down next to him. “I just don't think I can do this.”

“Do what?” Jacob asked looking at her.

Marta looked at him. “Delek said I was to be your chyff'oden,” she said. “Not just in name, he said it was an expected part of the mission and if I refuse I would anger you and word would get back to the council and I would lose my place as a potential host…” She paused. “Everyone knows that you and Garshaw are involved now and I don't want to cut in on her and to be blunt you don't seem the type of man to cheat on your partner.”

Jacob rolled his eyes. He couldn't believe Delek! He was absolutely fuming that Delek actually had the audacity to tell Marta that she had to sleep with him. No wonder Delek always took the new girls on their first mission. That would have to be addressed when he got home. Once the council knew this he would be stopped. “He did, did he?”

He raised her face to look at his. “Well you're right. There is no way I would cheat on either Garshaw or Yosef. They mean too much to us for me to even contemplate that. Delek had no right to even suggest such a thing. It is not a required part of any mission.” He paused, collecting his thoughts a moment. “Marta this is simply a role you are playing just like the one Selmak and I are. The most I will ask from you is a public show of affection like earlier. I also want you to sleep on the bed next to me in case someone comes in during the night.” 

Selmak nodded. <Assuming he doesn't prefer men or isn't fussy> she said.

Jacob screwed up his nose, relieved she was back with him. He didn't like it when she was so withdrawn. He always felt lonely when she did such a thing. <Thanks Sel. I really needed that image in my head.>

Selmak smiled slightly for the first time since leaving. <Welcome.>

Jacob looked at Marta. “We should sleep,” he told her. He watched her settle down on her side, facing out into the room. He waited a minute or two and then lay down next to her, curling up behind her but taking care not to touch her. <So plan of action?> he asked.

<Find what we need before our dinner with Aries preferably… failing that just get though as best we can.>

Marta lay still while Jacob got into bed behind her. She closed her eyes and slowed her breathing, not wanting to fall asleep first but so tired her body betrayed her.

Jacob noticed her fall asleep. He was furious that Delek had sent Marta with him.

Selmak sighed. <But the council don't know> she whispered. 

Jacob hugged her. <Delek still would have sent her> he said. <This should only take a couple more days. With any luck we will be out of here before anything happens.>

<And if we're not? Maybe we send her home?>

<That's an option. See how it goes.> Jacob hugged her again and closed his eyes letting himself relax into sleep. He had a nasty feeling about this mission and just hoped he was wrong.

--- ---

The next morning Marta woke first. This mission was going to be very different to what she had first thought it would be. It had all sounded so exciting when Delek told her she was going, despite what else he told her. She showered and dressed and went to get breakfast so that when Jacob woke it would be ready.

Jacob woke still toying with Selmak's idea of sending Marta home. However Marta would hear nothing of it. She was adamant it would ruin his cover if he did that and that they stood more chance working together. “Besides you promised to teach me how to serve at table,” Marta finished. “And I don't want to let you or the council down.”

They spent the day searching for the information Jacob needed. It was a fruitless search as again no one knew or was saying anything. The next two days were the same. Each day they would go further a field, searching but not finding the information they needed. By the end of the third day, Jacob was seriously considering calling a halt to the whole mission but Marta reminded him that things didn't always go their way. “And it'd be slightly boring if it did,” she finished placing the plate in front of him as they practiced serving the meal again.

Jacob looked at her. “You remind me of someone I know,” he said dryly.

“Really?” she asked. “And who would that be?”

“Selmak” he said deliberately moving the glass as she went to refill it. “She doesn't shut up either. Talks non-stop at times…it's really quite annoying.”

Marta compensated by moving the pitcher seamlessly. “Well that's not a nice thing to say about someone,” she said. “For that I ought to …” She broke off grinning.

Jacob laughed. “Yeah she just did,” he told her. “Seriously if we don't have any luck tomorrow I suggest leaving here and trying else where.”

Marta nodded, clearing away the dishes and sitting next to him with her meal. “Where did you have in mind?”

“Thais… twin city to this one. It's possible the Intel was wrong. Either way we are out of here by tomorrow evening.”

Marta looked at him surprised. “And after I put all this effort into not spilling your food on your lap,” she said pouting slightly.

Jacob looked at her. “I am only thinking of your safety,” he told her.

“Jacob it's very sweet but I can handle myself. Honestly. Look maybe I can find something out from the other servants while you make small talk with the system lord.”

He looked at her. <Sel?>

<She's too like me… She won't give in here. You know that…>

Jacob nodded. <But you don't want dinner with Aries…>

<No I don't.>

“See what happens,” Jacob said. “But at least you have serving dinner down to a fine art now.”

Marta looked at him. “That's what you think,” she grinned.

--- ---

The following morning Jacob was woken by a loud knock on the door just after 6am . Bright sunlight shone though the curtains. Marta was still soundly asleep and he hastily shook her awake as the knock was repeated.

She looked sleepily at him. “What?”

Jacob got up. “Lose the gown,” he hissed. He tossed the sheet to one side and stripping off his clothes and pulled his robe on making no effort to tie it properly.

Marta obediently removed her gown and lay on her front on the bed, the sheet coming just above her hips.

Jacob flung the door open just as someone called his name. “What?” he demanded making sure that whoever was standing there got a good look inside the room.

The manager stood there apologetically. “My lord Khlar I am sorry to disturb you…”

“Not as sorry as I am,” Jacob muttered, his eyes flashing brightly. “What is so important it necessitated disturbing me?”

“Lord Aries has sent a messenger for you my lord… He was very insistent on speaking with you now.”

Jacob looked past the manager to the messenger and rolled his eyes pulling his gown tighter. He looked over at Marta. “Don't you move,” he told her firmly.

She nodded slightly. “Yes my lord.” She watched as Jacob stepped out into the hall and closed the door behind him. She strained to hear the conversation, wondering what was going on but she couldn't make out what was being discussed. She waited right where he had left her until he came back into the room. “Problems?” she asked.

Jacob nodded and pulled the sheet right over her before sitting down on the bed. “Oh yeah… Apparently Aries won't be available tonight after all and wants me to join him at a breakfast meeting… with two other Goa'uld.”

She shrugged. “Just when you thought things couldn't get any worse…”

Jacob nodded. “Just remember we are guests in Aries palace though.”

Marta nodded. “I'll do my best to be your slave.”

“You had better do more than your best; otherwise Aries may punish you himself.”

“Oh joy.” She nodded.

Jacob smiled. “I'll let you get dressed.”

--- ---

Aries palace was more impressive than Jacob had thought. Ornate statues filled the hallways and gold leaf decorated the pillars. Marta followed Jacob trying to be invisible. She was totally overawed by this and how it compared to the way the Tok'ra live. The longer this mission went on the more she realised she wasn't as prepared for this as she thought she was. But despite this, she was determined to not fail Jacob. She hoped that one day she too would be able to adapt to whatever happened as fast as Jacob could. He was an excellent teacher as he had been doing this a lot longer.

They were shown into a hall where three other Goa'uld's and their human slaves were. Jacob nodded to Marta and she went over to where the other slaves were. She stood there for a moment, unsure what to do.

Reynar looked at her. “First time?” he asked quietly.

She nodded. “Yeah, talk about being thrown in at the deep end.”

“We all had to start somewhere. Pour some wine from the red flask into a goblet and give it to your master.”

Marta did as she was told and then returned to the table. “Thanks. I'm Marta.”

“Reynar. I am lotar to Lord Ba'al. You?”

“I am chyff'oden to Lord Khlar,” she said watching the others in the room. “What happens now?”

“They make idle conversation for a while then they go into the dining hall. We wait on the table while they eat and then when they start talking we are allowed to eat ourselves. Have you been with Khlar long?”

Marta shook her head. “No… I was assigned as chyff'oden just last week. Finally got higher than lotar,” she added.

Reynar looked at her. “Interesting. He must have been taken with your beauty. But you are not dressed as befitting your station if you don't mind me saying so.”

Marta looked at her flowing white dress. It was far shorter than what she would normally wear. “Am I not?”

Reynar shook his head. He pointed across the room to a girl wearing a red dress with gold trimming, a diamond studded collar tightly round her neck. “That is Katrina. She is concubine to Lord Thanatos.”

Marta looked at her. The dress positively screamed what she was as it left very little to the imagination.

Reynar lifted a hand to his throat. “And you do not wear the collar like Katrina does.”

Marta looked puzzled for a moment then waved her hand. “Oh that… he said it was degrading and not to wear it. He also has slightly better dress sense.”

“Really? What else did he say on the subject?”

Marta was about to answer when she saw Jacob beckoning to her. She excused herself and went over to him. “My lord,” she said keeping herself smaller than him.

Jacob nodded to Aries and moved away, his hand on Marta's arm. “Be careful what you say to whom,” he said. “They tend to report back to their masters. What did you tell him?”

“Not much. He asked if this was my first time and I said yes. He told me to bring you a drink, which I did. I just told him my name and which lord I serve and my position. Apparently I should have a short red dress and a collar to prove how much you love me. I would give anything to see your other half in that.”

Jacob nodded, running a hand up her arm. “I bet you would… Who is he?”

“His name is Reynar, he's a lotar,” she said watching him as he crossed the room to one of the Goa'uld. Presumably he was now doing the same as she was. She saw the tall bearded dark haired man looked over at them and saw what could have been recognition flash in his eyes then she looked away not wanting to get into trouble for staring.

Jacob kept moving his hand over her arm. “And who does he serve?”

“Ba'al,” she answered. “He is talking with one of the other lords now, so I would assume that…” She broke off as Jacob's hand tightened on her arm.

Jacob looked down at her. “Who?” he asked, an edge to his voice.

Marta looked startled as his fingers dug into her arm. “Lord Ba'al,” she repeated. “Did I do something wrong?” she asked as Jacob swore.

He shook his head. “No… we have to get out of here now.” His eyes closed as a hand fell on his shoulder.

Ba'al smiled. “And why would you want to do that?” he asked. “After all I haven't had the chance to make the acquaintance of your companion yet.” He smiled at Marta, his eyes undressing her as they slowly scanned up and down her body. “I must say you have remarkable taste.”

Jacob scowled. “What do you want Ba'al?” He could feel Selmak stirring agitatedly and kept firm hold on Marta.

Ba'al looked at him. “I think it's more a matter of what you want? Don't you? And how you managed to swing an invitation to this soirée…”

Jacob looked at him. “Just lucky I guess,” he muttered. “And like I was just saying it's time I left.”

“Oh but you can't leave before the meal, that would insult our host.” Ba'al placed a firm hand on Jacob's shoulder, giving him not choice as they announced the meal was ready. “Reynar tells me she is your concubine. But I am sure this pretty thing can serve at table just as well as she can in bed.”

Marta followed them as they moved into the dining hall. She stood behind Jacob, playing her role to perfection as she wondered why Jacob suddenly wanted to leave when he learned Ba'al was attending the breakfast. Then it dawned on her that Ba'al knew Jacob as he kept a watchful eye on him. Ba'al had sat next to him, making sure that they were directly opposite Aries himself. Marta's respect for Jacob grew as he did not falter in his performance even knowing his cover was blown.

Jacob could feel Selmak trembling within him and he wished he'd refused the invitation but he was here now and just had to deal with it. <Calm down Sel> he whispered. <You're not alone here.> Although with Selmak trembling so within him it made his stomach turn terribly and he really wasn't hungry.

Marta served Jacob just as they had practised, bringing him the dishes as need be and keeping his glass topped up throughout the meal. She noticed that Aries kept looking at her and wished that he would stop undressing her with his eyes. It was one problem she knew she was going to keep running in to no matter where she went. Even Delek would do the same thing and more than once he tried, unsuccessfully to get to know her better.

Ba'al looked at Jacob. “So how long have you had her then?” he asked.

“A few days,” Jacob answered hoping that matched what Marta would have told Reynar. Not that it mattered much anyway as he was positive Ba'al was going to rat him and Selmak out any moment now. But Jacob still had a role to play. “I am still breaking her in.”

Marta leaned over Jacob, about to place another dish in front of him when Ba'al reached over and grabbed her hand making sure the bowl slipped. “Oops,” he said looking at her.

She reacted fast catching the dish and looked at him. “Keep your hands off me,” she told him. “I may be Lord Khlar's concubine but that does not give you the right to touch me.”

Aries grinned. “She has a point Ba'al… perhaps you should ask Khlar's permission before you touch.” Then he looked at Jacob, expecting him to do something.

Marta looked at him and then back down. She bit her tongue longing to say something but not wanting to make things worse than they already were.

Ba'al looked at Aries. “She is a slave,” he said. Then he looked at Jacob grinning slightly, wondering what he was going to do. “Are you going to let her get away with talking to me like that?”

Jacob shook his head and then looked at her. “Apologise!” he said making his eyes flash.

Marta looked at him and then lowered her head. “I apologise,” she said, not meaning a word of it.

Jacob looked at Aries. “She is not long in service.”

Aries inclined his head slightly. “That is no excuse,” he said.

Ba'al nodded. “True but then I expected no better from a slave of her calibre or breeding,” he smirked. He picked up his glass and took a sip of his wine. “So Khlar, is she better in the bed chamber than serving at the table?”

Jacob looked at him. “I have no complaints in that department,” he said.

Aries looked at Marta. “Come here, you may serve me for the remainder of the meal.”

Marta looked at Jacob and then as he nodded moved round the table.

Aries looked at his lotar. “Serve Khlar,” he said. “Show him how one's servants should behave at the table.” Then he gripped Marta's arm and pulled her down to him. “You talk to me like that and I will flay the skin from your back myself. Is that understood?”

Marta nodded. “Yes my lord,” she answered. She refilled Aries glass, just wanting to get through the rest of the meal without dropping anything else. She was aware of everyone watching her and could almost sense Ba'al willing her to fail. The tension was building as she knew it was only a matter of time now before she and Jacob were revealed as Tok'ra. But she was prepared to do what needed to be done and she had faith that Jacob would get them out of this mess.

Aries watched her as she served him. She really was one incredibly beautiful woman and would be an asset to his staff. He glanced over at Khlar. “What would you give in trade for her?” he asked.

Jacob choked on his wine, disguising it as a cough. “I'm sorry?” he said.

“Your slave… what is your price?” Aries grabbed hold of Marta and pulled her close to him. “She is a beautiful woman, one I would like to add to my household.”

Jacob looked at Marta, almost deafened by Selmak's shriek for him to do something. “She is not for sale or trade,” he said.

Aries smiled. “Oh come now,” he said. “I am sure you can find yourself another woman.” He raised an eyebrow and looked at Jacob.

Before he had chance to reply a message came that necessitated Thanatos leaving. Marta took a deep breath as Aries left the room with him and dropped her guard for a moment. She felt sick after he'd had his hands all over her.

Jacob watched her carefully wondering how he was going to get them out of this now.

Ba'al leaned over to Jacob. “She doesn't look too well… perhaps she needs to go lie down…” He paused. “You realise of course that you won't get out of here don't you… although I might be able to be persuaded to save one of you.” He looked over at Marta and then back at Jacob.

Aries came back into the room and sat down. “Resume,” he said.

Marta picked up the small dish that Reynar indicated and placed the bowl on the table.

Aries closed his fingers over her wrist. “So Khlar,” he said. “I wish to have this slave as my own. Name your price.”

“I already said she is not for sale,” Jacob told him calmly.

“Then make her a gift… for I will have her. One way or another.”

Ba'al smirked and before Jacob had a chance to respond any further blew their cover. “It would seem you have them both. This is not Khlar; this is Selmak of the Tok'ra.”

Aries looked at him. “Selmak?” he asked.

Ba'al nodded. “An added bonus… I assume you don't mind if I stay for the interrogation? I do so love the after breakfast entertainment.”

Aries smirked. “Of course… and the woman?” He gripped Marta's wrist firmly.

“Not blended,” Ba'al said. “Although as arrogant as any Tok'ra I have ever met, she is merely a human.”

Marta pulled herself free of Aries grip. “I shall never be yours,” she told him. She looked over at Ba'al. “And as for you,” she began.

Aries stood up and grabbed hold of her, pulling her towards him. “Oh you will be mine,” he told her. “You may even enjoy it.” His eyes ran up and down her figure.

Marta glared at him and then spat in his face. “Go to hell,” she told him. “I would not be yours if you were the only man in the universe!”

Aries eyes glowed as he looked at Marta. “You will pay for that,” he said.

Jacob started to get up to find two jaffa appear by his side.

“Sit down!” Aries told him. “You interfere and her punishment will increase one hundred fold.” He took the whip from the jaffa. “I warned you,” he told Marta, his eyes glinting. “And as Selmak will tell you I make good on my promises. Turn around!” he ordered.

Marta looked at him and shook her head, knowing that defying him would anger him, but she was not going to go down without a fight.

Aries spun her round and undid the shoulder clasps on her dress exposing her back, before pushing her roughly into the wall.

Marta bit her lip as the whip rose and fell cutting into her flesh, refusing to give him the pleasure of hearing her cry. “That meant to hurt?” she gasped.

This infuriated Aries who just whipped her with greater force, smiling with pleasure as she finally cried out.

Jacob longed not to watch, but the staff weapon in his back ensured he did. He could feel Selmak's reaction and knew it wouldn't be long before he was treated the same way.

Finally Aries let his hand fall to his side and looked at Jacob. “Take him to the cells,” he said.

Marta slumped against the wall, catching her breath and struggling not to let the pain show so much.

The jaffa moved in and forced Jacob's hands behind his back. He moved quickly, not sure what he hoped to achieve but he suddenly felt a zat blast encompass him and he fell to the floor.

--- ---

He slowly opened his eyes sometime later. His hands were chained high above his head. He heard a low moan inside his head. <Selmak?>

<Last time I checked> she whispered. <Marta?>

Jacob looked round the cell. <Not here> he answered. He felt Selmak shudder. <I'm sure she's fine> he said hoping he was right.

The door opened and two jaffa came in. Jacob looked at them. He mentally prepared himself for what was to come. The pain was worse than he had remembered. He kept quiet for as long as he could but finally the pain grew too much and he screamed.

The jaffa grinned and moved the pain stick, watching Jacob writhing until the shock wore off. “Shol'va,” he said touching the stick to Jacob's chest again.

Jacob screamed. He had no idea how long this went on for. They didn't want to know anything, just seemed to delight in hurting him. Finally they stopped and left him hanging by the chains. He shut his eyes reaching for Selmak.

<I'm still here> she said hugging him . <That hurt… and that was just the start.>

 Jacob moaned.

Hours passed. The routine was always the same. Torture followed by a short break. After the seventh such session Jacob hung wearily on the chains, not sure how much more he could take. He closed his eyes hoping this time they would leave him for a while. It was barely five minutes before the jaffa returned to the cell. “Lord Aries wants to see you,” one said.

“What if I don't want to see him?” Jacob said. He gasped as the jaffa punched him in the stomach winding him.

The other jaffa let him down none too gently then pulled him to his feet.

Jacob let them tie him into a leash harness and drag him down the corridors. He made no effort to move for himself, instead concentrated on trying to calm Selmak. < I know how scared you are because of what happened last time....and I'm sorry I got you into this mess.>

<Nothing you can do...it was a hundred years ago. At least you're male. There is less chance of him wanting to....>

 Jacob hugged her. <But that doesn't really help.>

<No…> she whispered.

The jaffa led him to Aries throne room. Aries sat sprawled on his throne with Marta on his lap. “Jacob… so good of you to join us… Marta here has told me so much about you.”

Jacob looked at Marta. She sat with Aries hand firmly on her thigh, the tiny dress she was wearing keeping her decent but only just.

Aries looked at Jacob and moved his hand further up Marta's leg. “And we've had such fun the two of us.” He smirked and kissed her. Then he looked at Ba'al. “Well the three of us have… haven't we dear?”

Marta nodded slightly. He hadn't raped her, which was what she was expecting but he had other ways of hurting and humiliating her.

Aries looked at her. “I said haven't we dear?”

She took a deep breath. “Oh yeah, loved every minute of it.” She looked at Jacob. “And I told him nothing, it really annoyed him.”

Ba'al smirked. “Such a shame you won't get to partake yourself,” he said. “She really is better in bed than serving tables. And her spirit will make breaking her so much more fun.”

“Go to hell!” Jacob answered.

Aries laughed. “Oh but you are in hell already.” He set Marta to one side and moved over to Jacob. He leaned in close to him and laid a hand on Jacob's chest. “How is Selmak doing? Afraid I am going to want to relive our past? She did tell you about that?”

Jacob glared at him. “We have no secrets from each other,” he said.

“Good,” Aries raised his left hand. “Then you know what's coming.”

Pain filled Jacob again sending him to his knees.

Aries laughed. “We are going to have such fun,” he said. “And this Shol'va is just the beginning. By the time I am finished with you… you will be begging me for death.”

Hunter's Bane 2: Ralkna's Man Hunt
By Tels

Jack glanced up at the tannoy as the words “Unauthorised incoming wormhole,” came through it. He rolled his eyes and looked at Daniel. “We so have to find a new saying for that one,” he said getting up.

“There's always red alert,” Daniel suggested as he followed Jack from his office to the control room. “Or here we go again or…” he broke off as he saw the figure standing in front of the closed iris. “What does he want this time?”

Jack swore and then forced a smile. “Better get down there.” He moved rapidly down the stairs.

Ba'al stood on the ramp, or rather his hologram stood on the ramp waiting impatiently.

Jack entered the gate room. “Ball how you doing?”

Ba'al took a deep breath. “When are you going to learn to pronounce my name properly?” he asked.

Jack did a double take. “You came here just to teach me how to say your name?”

Ba'al smirked. “Well as I am here. It's BA-AL not ball!”

Jack shrugged. “Okay, Ba-al , what can I do for you?”

“Actually it's more a case of what I can do for you,” Ba'al said. “I have some information I thought you might like.”

Jack looked at him. “What's it going to cost?”

Ba'al shook his head. “So suspicious aren't you? Well if you don't want it… doubtless you will be able to console Colonel Carter when the news comes.”

Jack just looked at him. “And what news would that be?”

“The news of her father's death of course,” Ba'al replied with a smirk on his face, knowing he'd now got the Tau'ri's full attention.

Jack looked stunned. “Wait… Jacob's dead?”

Ba'al turned slightly. “Not yet… but he will be soon. He was captured … well actually he did that all by himself, virtually walked into the palace and handed himself over. I happen to know where he is and could be persuaded to tell you.”

Daniel immediately lifted the phone and called Sam's lab. Once he put the receiver down he turned his attention back to the gate room, watching the interaction between the two figures down there.

Ba'al raised an eyebrow. “Well? I don't have all day…”

Jack looked at him. “What are you after?” he asked.

“I told you I don't want anything in return. I am simply passing on information … you can as you say, owe me one.”

Jack glanced behind him and then back at Ba'al. “Okay…” He didn't exactly trust Ba'al, in fact would only trust him as far as he could throw him, which probably wasn't far at all, but if Jacob really was in trouble here, he needed to know. “So what's the gossip then?”

Sam hurried into the control room. “What's going on?” she asked.

Daniel put a hand on her arm. “Sit down Sam,” he said gently. “Not sure yet, he hasn't said much. Something to do with your father but…”

Ba'al glanced up and smirked as he saw Sam sit down in the control room. “Selmak is currently the guest of System Lord Aries,” he said.

“Aries?” Jack asked. “Never heard of him.”

“He makes Anubis look as weak and spineless as the Tok'ra,” Ba'al smirked. “Last time I saw Selmak he wasn't doing so well, torture tends to do that to people. But he looked a whole lot better than the unblended woman the Tok'ra sent with him. She was about to be beaten within an inch of her life… again. Seems some people just don't know when to give in and do what their master tells them to do.”

“You know, I've been down this road before many times… how do I know you're telling the truth this time?”

Ba'al smirked. “You don't, but are you really prepared to take the risk?” His imaged shimmered and vanished.

Jack cursed to himself then spun round, hurrying to the control room. “Walter, dial the Tok'ra now!” he ordered, immediately noticing the stricken look on Carter's face. He'd seen it before when she first learned her father was dying of cancer and again when he was captured by Sokar.

“Do you think he's telling the truth about my father, Sir?” Sam asked.

Jack looked at her gently. “I'm not sure,” he answered honestly. “I don't trust Ba'al any farther than I can throw him but…”

“On the other hand, he's a Goa'uld,” Daniel said.

“And?” Jack asked expectantly, knowing they were all thinking the same thing.

“No one loves to gloat more than Ba'al, Sir,” Sam replied.

“Which means there could be some truth to what he says,” Jack finished, rubbing his neck. “Let's just see what the Tok'ra have to say before we jump to any conclusions.”

--- ---

Malek and Elise had finally managed to get some time to themselves and they were determined to make the most of it. He had taken her back to his quarters and amid much giggling had managed to get her out of her shirt. She was now attempting to do the same to him and had just undone his shirt, sliding her hands along his shoulders to rid him of it. He buried his face in her hair, biting her neck gently, pushing her down onto the bed. “Hey beautiful,” he whispered.

Elise laughed. “You have been round Jared for too long my love,” she teased. “You are starting to talk like him.”

Malek shrugged, deliberately pushing the shirt back up his shoulders. “And that is a problem because…? Besides he does it to me so its only fair that…”

Elise poked her tongue out at him. “Just shut up and kiss me,” she said,

He pretended to look hurt for a moment. “Shut up?” he repeated. “How about I shut you up?” He leaned over her and kissed her firmly.

Elise responded by pushing her hands far enough up his back to pull his shirt right down, kissing him back.

Malek opened his eyes as someone flew into the room calling his name. “Yes…” he said sharply as he felt Elise's hands pause on his back.

Aldwin paused. “Malek I am sorry to disturb you …”

Malek pulled Elise close to him. “What do you want?” he asked.

“You are needed in the communications room.”

Malek closed his eyes as Elise ran kisses down his neck. “You're second in command here Aldwin, handle it.”

“It's General O'Neill. He is asking, no he is demanding to speak with you and only you. He says it's urgent.”

Malek groaned. “Okay I will be there.” He pulled the covers over Elise and got up.

Elise looked at him. “You said you had two hours,” she told him, pouting slightly. “You can't just leave.”

“Watch me,” Malek said. Then he smiled at her. “We can finish it later.”

“Damn right… you are confined to the base until you have done so.” Elise gave him one of her don't push me looks.

Jared grinned. “Is that a promise or a threat healer?” he asked, pulling his shirt back up over his shoulders and fastening it.

Elise blew him a kiss. “Both,” she grinned. She watched him leave and sighed, leaning back against the pillows.

Reaching the communications room Malek looked at the screen. “General O'Neill, I am sorry to have kept you.”

Jack glared at the monitor. “Yeah… look I need to get hold of Jacob fairly urgently. I figured you'd be the person to ask.”

“Jacob is on a mission right now,” Malek answered. <That could have waited or been dealt with by Aldwin.>

<Yeah, although he looks rattled Mal> Jared replied. < Jacob's daughter doesn't look too good either. >

“Ah,” Jack answered. “You see we have received information that …we have just been informed he's been captured by Aries. When was the last time you heard from him?”

Malek looked slightly shocked. <Captured by Aries?> he whispered to Jared. “Our operatives do not report in while they are undercover,” he said. “Not unless it is necessary.” He paused. “How reliable is this source?”

“I think …” Jack broke off. “Yes he has reason to lie but he also said we now owe him one. I imagine it's a relatively reliable source. I'm prepared to send SG-1 on a possible rescue mission… IF you provide me with Jacob's location.”

Malek ran a hand over the back of his neck. “Unfortunately, I am not privy to such information. Only the High Council would know Jacob's current location.”

“Then go ask them for it!” O'Neill demanded. “You people may have no qualms about leaving operatives to die. But Jacob's Air Force… we don't leave our people behind.”

< He's right Mal. It's not like we would send someone to rescue him. >

Malek nodded slowly. “Give me an hour…I'll contact you.”

“Fine… if I don't hear from you after an hour, you will have a very irate Colonel Carter to contend with. And it won't be via a communication channel either!”

The channel closed abruptly and Malek took a deep breath.

<You don't think…> Jared asked.

<No, Samantha Carter is not that kind of person. But I don't want to give her bad news about her father. We need to speak to Garshaw. And she won't take the news any better. But that's not my main concern.>

<Then what is?>

Malek didn't answer, moving from the communication room to where he knew Garshaw would be.

--- ---

Aries looked at the woman on the bed and smirked. She hadn't moved in a while but that was fine. She didn't need to move for this; in fact it was easier if she didn't. He moved over to her and ran a finger nail down her arm. Then he pulled a vial from his pocked and shoved the syringe into her neck, injecting the contents into her unresisting body.

--- ---

Sam looked at Jack as he cut off the channel. “Sir!” she began. “What if…”

“Calm down Carter, I know what I'm doing. You have to be pushy with them to get what you want.” He paused, and lowered his voice. “Sam… Jacob's your Dad. I'm going to do everything I can to find him. Then we'll do everything we can to get him home.”

Sam looked down and then back up. “Yes Sir.”

Daniel looked up from the computer. “If Aries is anything like his mythological counterpart,” he began. “Aries was the Greek god of war and violence, the equivalent of the Roman god Mars. He loved the noise of battle and spending his day in conflict, mindless killing and spilling the blood of whoever got in his way. He also had a thing for women, didn't matter if they were slaves or priestesses or vestal virgins. He wanted them and he took them.”

Sam took a deep breath. “Nice guy,”

Jack looked at her. “Like I said, we'll find your Dad okay. Recall Teal'c and get your kit ready just in case.”

--- ---

Malek held the letter in his hand and then knocked quietly before entering Garshaw's chamber. A habit he'd picked up from Jacob he tended to use it more often than not now.

Garshaw looked up as he came in. “Malek,” she said setting down what she had in her hand and sliding it under the pillow. “What can I do for you?”

Malek took a deep breath. “There is no easy way to say this… I have just been contacted by General O'Neill… he has received Intel that Jacob and Selmak have been captured. He wants to know their location so he organise a rescue attempt.”

Garshaw paled, feeling the same reaction from Yosef. <Nooooooooo.> “Did he say who the source of this information was?” she asked.

Malek sat down. “No he didn't. Just that Jacob had been caught by Aries.”

Garshaw closed her eyes. <What have I done?> she whispered. She took several deep breaths trying to regain her composure.

“Obviously he wants information which I don't have. I need to know where the council sent Jacob so that we can look into it.”

Garshaw looked at Malek. “I can't tell you that…”

<What?> Yosef cried. <You know that source has to be telling the truth…>

Malek sighed. “I can insist the council tell me… I just thought you might want to tell me yourself first. I mean Jacob is your mate or doesn't that matter to you???” He stood up. “He came to see me before he left… asked me to give you this.” He tossed the letter onto the bed.

Garshaw picked up the letter. “Malek wait…” She opened the letter and read slowly. Her bottom lip trembled as she read of his love for her and how the past few weeks had meant so much to him and how he would always love her. She looked up at Malek tears glistening in her eyes. “Okay,” she said quietly. “But what I tell you goes no further. The council can't know.”

Malek sat back down and looked at her. “I understand that and believe me if this weren't so important I wouldn't be asking. Whatever the Tau'ri had been told was enough to fluster Colonel Carter.”

Garshaw nodded. “The council sent him to Tarantino, to Thalia.”

“Aries stronghold???” Malek said shocked.

Garshaw nodded. “Selmak had been there before, knew the territory, the lay of the land. They had to retrieve the Halkstshar.”

Malek closed his eyes for a moment. “Nothing is that important…”

“The council disagreed. If it should fall into Aries hands Malek…” she broke off. “Jacob was going in as the minor Goa'uld he had set up… Khlar. But he wasn't supposed to go anywhere near the palace.”

Malek looked at her. “I have to contact General O'Neill again in a few minutes. I will suggest meeting on a neutral planet. Did you want to accompany me?”

Garshaw nodded. “I owe them that much.” She took a deep breath. “I can't send another operative… I know you want to go but…”

“Too right I do…”

“Malek it is not our way you know that. Besides if the Tau'ri are willing to go…”

Malek looked at her. “And if they weren't you would sacrifice him?”

Garshaw looked at him. “I would not… but the council will not sanction a rescue for anyone. No matter how much I or you may wish it.” She paused. “I have something I need to do and then I will accompany you to meet them.”

--- ---

Jacob lay on his side curling up against the kicks and punches. He tried to protect Selmak as much as he could, curling into a ball, but it didn't the assault on his body. He could hear the taunts of the jaffa as they attacked him and Aries laughing as he watched. He knew from Selmak's memories that they had barely scratched the surface with him yet. He had totally lost track of time now, all that existed was pain.

Again the questions came. “What are you doing here... what are you after… who sent you… where is your base…” but he remained silent. He was not going to give anything up. He would die first, die however many times it took until they got tired of killing him and left him for dead. His thoughts turned to Garshaw and Yosef, trying to imagine he was with them, rather than lying here being beaten.

--- ---

Malek and Garshaw stood by the DHD in a clearing. The gate started to activate and they both drew their zats in case it wasn't who they were expecting. When the wormhole stabilized and three familiar figures came though they lowered the zats. Malek stepped forwards. “Colonel Carter…”

Sam moved down the steps. “Malek, Garshaw. This isn't the Tok'ra base… why have you asked us here?”

“Because what you are about to be told is highly sensitive information,” Malek answered. “For the record, we never had this discussion and you were never here.”

Sam nodded. “I understand. Where is my father?”

“The council sent your father on a mission of some importance. He left four perhaps five days ago.”

“What was his mission?”

Garshaw spoke for the first time since they'd arrived. She was slightly more in control now than she had been but her emotions were clearly evident. “He was sent to gather information in Thalia…”

Sam watched Garshaw as she spoke. She looked pale and worried. She'd never actually seen Garshaw look anything other than calm and totally in control. To see her completely rattled like this just showed the depth of the love she had for her father and Selmak. “Thalia?” she asked when he'd finished.

Garshaw nodded. “It is on Tarantino. It is one of Aries strongholds. Current Intel suggests that he has his palace there.”

“What was my father sent to do?”

“He was going in as the minor Goa'uld he has spent some months setting up.” Garshaw paused. “He was to retrieve the Halkstshar.”

Daniel looked at her. “That really exists?” he asked.

She nodded.

Sam looked at him. “What is it?”

Daniel explained. “It's similar to the eye of Ra, only said to be one hundred times more powerful. If that should fall into the hands of the system lords…”

Sam nodded and looked back at the two Tok'ra. “What about this woman you sent with him?”

Malek looked at her sharply. “We did not mention a woman,” he said, trying to cover Garshaw's intake of breath.

“Our source told us Dad was accompanied by a woman. Your reactions seem to imply he was.”

Malek closed his eyes for a moment, wondering where her all too accurate information was coming from. “Yes he took someone with him. Her name is Marta.”

Teal'c looked at him. “She is also Tok'ra?”

“No… she accompanied him as his human slave… She is not yet blended.”

Sam looked at him. “General O'Neill has authorised us to go in after him,” she said seriously. “We can't take the risk that what our source told us is the truth and not act, despite the risks.”

“And if it is not true, then you risk blowing his cover and potentially put his life at risk.”

Sam shook her head. “According to our source his life is already at risk.”

Garshaw took a deep breath. “And who is your source?” she asked. “His information is far too accurate.”

Sam looked at her. “Oh?”

“Your source first,” Garshaw said.

Sam shook her head. “This is not some trade meeting. This is my father's life we are trying to save now.”

Garshaw nodded and looked at Sam. “The information I managed to get before leaving to meet you would seem to indicate that your source would be telling the truth. Jacob and Marta went to the palace. They did not leave.”

Sam took a deep breath. “How long ago?”

“I could not find out. However I still need to know who your source is. The security of our operatives has been compromised.”

Sam took a deep breath. “Ba'al,” she said, noting how both Tok'ra froze as she said it. “He contacted us and said Dad and the woman with him had been captured by Aries and that we now owed him one. Now Dad maybe a Tok'ra but he is also a member of our Air Force and we do not leave a man behind. I intend to go to Tarantino and rescue him.”

Malek looked at her. “I want to go with you. It's not that I don't trust your ability… we have as much at stake here as you do.”

Garshaw shook her head. “You know you can't,” she said. “We have already had this discussion Malek. I'm sorry.”

Malek nodded reluctantly. He'd follow orders even if he didn't agree with them.

Teal'c looked over at Sam. “I have been to Tarantino,” he said quietly. “While I was first prime of Apophis.”

“So you know the layout?” Sam said.

Teal'c nodded. “I do.”

“Good. That will be a help.”

Malek reached into his tunic and took out the letters. “Before he left your father seemed agitated somehow. He asked me to give you these in the event of something happening.”

Sam looked at him. “Oh?”

Malek handed them to her. “All he said was I would know when to give them to you.”

Sam took the letters and glanced at them. She put the one to Mark into her pocket and ripped open the envelope addressed to her. She read it, her face paling slightly.

Daniel looked at her. “What's wrong Sam?” he asked.

Sam looked up. “It's basically a goodbye letter. Tells me where his will is and stuff.” She looked down at it again. “He didn't expect to be coming home.” She closed her eyes for a moment and then looked up back in control. “But why now? He's done missions before, much like this one, or worse.”

Malek looked at her. “He came to see me just before he left. He was very troubled but did not want to talk. I know Selmak has had dealings with Aries in the past, perhaps because he knew what he was getting into and how big the risks are…”

Sam shook her head. “It's the same risks we take every time. Something else must be bothering him this time.” She took a deep breath. “All the more reason to go and find him. Daniel dial us home.”

Daniel nodded and turned to the DHD.

Sam looked at Garshaw. “I'll find him and bring him home,” she promised. “And I'll let you know as soon as we're back.”

Garshaw nodded. “You have your father's determined look in your eyes,” she said.

Daniel looked back at them. “That's not all she inherited. She's a chip off the old block.”

Garshaw looked confused. “Chip of the old block?” he asked.

Daniel grinned as the gate opened. “You think Jacob is stubborn? You ain't seen nothing yet.”

--- ---

Finally the punches stopped and there was silence. Jacob closed his eyes for a moment struggling to breathe. Every part of him hurt now, although he could no longer feel his left hand. He knew Selmak was working on it and wasn't even going to ask how much damage had been done to it. He refused to let her fore. He knew she was terrified of Aries and assured her he could deal with whatever he dished out.

Someone came up behind him and there was a sudden pain in his neck followed by a sharp stinging sensation. Then the pain started again as Aries came up with a new way of making him bleed. This time he was unable to keep silent and cried out in pain, still refusing to answer the questions directed at him.

--- ---

Jack met SG1 in the gate room and led them immediately to the briefing room.

Sam didn't want to waste time going to the briefing room but knew that the information would be best given to her CO there. She filled him in with what little information Malek and Garshaw had given them.

Daniel explained in slightly more detail about the Halkstshar and then Teal'c gave a short bit about Thalia and the layout there.

Jack nodded. “Okay you have a go. Just be careful out there. Bring Jacob back here first. Then we contact the Tok'ra. He goes back when he wants and not when they want.”

Sam nodded. “Thank you Sir.”

Jack smiled. “You were gonna go anyway weren't ya?”

Sam just gave him one of her looks.

Jack grinned. “Get outta here,” he said. He watched them get up and then stood in the control room and watched them gate out.

SG1 walked slowly up the ramp and through the event horizon, weapons at the ready to take out the guards at the gate if needed.

--- ----

Aries grinned down at the figure in front of him. “Are we having fun yet?” he smirked.

Jacob looked up at him, both eyes blackened, one so badly it was swollen shut. “Oh yeah,” he managed though split lips.

Aries kicked him again. “You know I thought this would be more fun than it is… Is Selmak avoiding me?” He reached down and pulled Jacob to his feet, peering at him. “Well is she?”

Selmak trembled within Jacob, desperately trying to block the memories.

Jacob hugged her. “Unlike you, the Tok'ra do not hide behind their hosts,” he said. “This is my body you are currently abusing, therefore you deal with me.”

Aries smirked. “Well if that's the way you want it.” He tilted his head to one side. “Personally I would love to renew my intimate acquaintance with Selmak…”

Jacob felt Selmak shudder at the thought and couldn't stop himself shuddering as well. His stomach turned at the mere thought of it.

Aries smiled. “I want you to anticipate it,” he whispered in Jacob's ear, curling a hand behind Jacob's neck and stroking it just over where Selmak lay. “Because it will happen. Not yet but later.”

Ba'al came back into the room dragging Marta in with him. He tossed her down onto the floor. “Well that was fun,” he said smirking.

Marta lay where she fell getting her breath back and determined not to show the pain she was in.

Aries looked down at her and then over at Ba'al. “Perhaps a new game,” he suggested.

“What did you have in mind?” Ba'al asked.

Jacob felt himself get dropped to the floor again and lay still. There wasn't much more they could do to them surely. <Selmak?> he whispered.

<I'm okay> came the quiet reply. <You?>

<I'm sorry… hiding behind you like this…>

Jacob hugged her. <Hey like I told Aries it's my body he's beating up here, only fair I take it. Sides you need to keep us going here. I intend to get out alive…>

<Or die trying huh?> Selmak finished. She looked at Marta through Jacob's good eye. <Do you suppose they…> she broke off.

 Jacob thought, wondering if Aries intended to make good on his threat with him. He heard Ba'al laugh and congratulate Aries on his ingenious idea.

Marta winced as the jaffa hauled her to her feet by her hair. “Oww!”

Jacob struggled upright. “Leave her alone,” he said.

Aries looked at him. “Or you'll what?” he said. He moved over to Marta and pulled her into his arm, kissing her firmly.

Ba'al watched for a moment and then said, “Perhaps you should add her to your plan as well… it might be more amusing if there were two of them out there.”

Aries broke off kissing Marta for a moment and grinned. “Sounds good to me.”

Marta glared at him and spat in his face. “Don't you dare kiss me,” she told him.

Aries looked at her and slapped her. “I will do more than kiss you,” he told her, his hand running firmly down her figure. “And don't you forget it!” He looked at the jaffa. “Take them to the hunting ground.”

Jacob shot Aries a horrified look as Selmak filled him in. <He wouldn't…>

<Oh he would… been there, done that, died there…>

<What?>

<Then he puts you in the sarcophagus and starts over….>

Aries grinned at him. “Have fun… And if you survive then I get to play with Selmak and this one…”

The jaffa pulled Jacob to his feet and dragged him from the room. Two more dragged Marta after him. They took them to the ring room. “You have an hour,” the first prime said as the jaffa pushed the prisoners into the rings. “Make the most of it.”

Marta fell hard and looked up as rings activated, depositing them outside in the darkness. “They letting us go?” she asked hopefully.

Jacob shook his head. “Selmak says they are going to hunt us… with a ralkna. It's a no holes barred hunt.”

“A ralkna?” Marta asked.

Jacob looked at her. “A ralkna has beige scales with multiple horns jutting from its head and a double row of ridges on its back. It breathes out a jet of poisonous fluid which combined with its venomous fangs would probably be enough to kill you. Without its large and vicious claws or bony club on the edge of its tail. Selmak says it does have wings but she doesn't know if it can fly or not."

Marta closed her eyes. “Oh nice. And that is what we have chasing us…” She took a deep breath. “If I hadn't said too much to Reynar, we may have got out of here.”

Jacob looked at her. “It wasn't your fault… once Ba'al saw me the game was up.” He offered a hand.

She shook her head. “I didn't help answering back the way I did.” She took his hand and let him help her up. Her back was agony under the dress she wore. Aries had been true to his word and beaten her so hard she knew it would leave permanent scars.

Jacob looked at her, not wanting to ask but needing to know. “Marta,” he said gently. “When you were alone with Aries…”

She managed a slight smile. “My virtue is still intact. Aries wants me to ‘anticipate it' is what he said; to know its coming but not know when. Ba'al was more inventive in trying to make me talk…” Her voice petered out and she looked down.

Jacob squeezed her hand. “It's alright,” he told her. “Even a trained and experienced Tok'ra has a breaking point. I know Selmak and I do.” He looked up at the sky, but there wasn't even a hint of daylight in the darkness. “We should put as much distance between us and here as we can.”

Marta looked at him. She couldn't imagine him or Selmak telling anyone anything under torture. She on the other hand wasn't sure she was cut out for this. Perhaps it was best she found out now she supposed before she took a symbiote and got them into trouble. “Can we not simply run for the gate?” she asked.

Jacob shook his head. “This area will be highly guarded. We'd never make it out. Our best bet is to move now and then lay low for a bit.”

Marta nodded. She wasn't sure she could run very far but wanted to get caught even less. She set off with him. He was keeping a fairly slow pace, she guessed because he was hurting too. She'd heard him scream when he was with the jaffa and with Aries. She'd been forced to watch him being beaten like he had watched her but still he hadn't caved and told them what they wanted. She followed his example even though part of her would have told Aries anything just to stop the pain.

Jacob kept going heading towards the twin moons which were steadily shining in the eastern sky. He had no idea if just one day or more had passed since he had arrived at Aries palace. It was a stupid thing to have done he reflected. He should just have taken Marta and headed towards the gate and got her off the planet. Yes the mission would have been a failure but better a failure than this. He knew Marta blamed herself but if anyone was to blame it was him for taking her or Delek for insisting she came.

He ran through the trees and shrubs, his feet catching in the undergrowth, every step jarring his torn and bleeding back. He knew Selmak was healing him as fast and as best as she could but that was an advantage Marta didn't have. And he no longer had a healing device with him. All he had on was what Aries had deemed him fit to wear. He kept hold of Marta as they ran, not wanting her to get lost or separated. He was not going to fail her again.

--- ---

The gate opened and Sam led the way up the steps and through the gate into the darkness. Sam turned to Teal'c. “Which way?” she asked.

Teal'c pointed north. “That way,” he said.

Sam nodded. “Move out,” she said. “Teal'c you take point, since you know where we're going.”

--- ---

Jacob pulled Marta into the bushes. “Rest a minute,” he said. He let go of her and bent over trying to get his breath.

Marta fell to the ground breathing hard. “Are they coming?”

Jacob nodded. “Probably. We need to keep moving for a while.”

She took a deep breath. “I'm tired and I hurt… I haven't slept in ages…”

Jacob held out a hand. “I know…We both are… and I'm sorry but we can't wait any longer. We need to go now.”

Marta slowly got to her feet. “What if I can't do this?” she asked as Jacob set off running again. “I'm just going to slow you down,” she called after him.

He stopped and looked back at her. “I am not going without you,” he said firmly.

Marta looked at him. “I can't go any further,” she said. “I'm sorry.”

Jacob moved back over to her. “Marta,” he said gently. “I am not going without you.”

She took a deep breath. “I'll just slow you down. Delek said that…”

Jacob rolled his eyes. “Forget what Delek said. I operate by a different set of rules. I do not leave anyone behind, not while they are still breathing.” He looked at her. “I know you're tired but we can't let them find us.”

Marta nodded slowly.

“No one is expendable,” Jacob reiterated. “We go together.”

“Okay.”

Jacob set off running again, this time making sure that he kept pace with Marta.

<She has a point Jacob, we can't keep going indefinitely> Selmak said.

Selmak nodded. <Agreed… I'm sorry. Perhaps if I had tried harder, not let the memories interfere so much then maybe…>

Jacob shook his head. <Wouldn't have mattered. The game was up the instant Ba'al saw us. Not that things were going our way anyway. We'd hit so many brick walls. Which I don't understand…>

<Unless it was a trap…>

<Sel that would infer someone on the council set us up… and was working with Ba'al. Not even Delek would stoop that low.>

Selmak shifted position slightly. <Not necessarily. What if Ba'al being there was purely coincidental. We got sent because I know the ground and so on. This supposed information is suddenly not available, no one knows anything and we get invited to dinner within hours of arriving.>

<Like I said coincidence… not every mission we go on is someone setting us up. Let's just put it down to a downward spiral of consequences and concentrate on getting out of the hole we are in hey?>

<Kay.> Selmak hugged him.

Marta tripped and fell heavily. She rolled and sat up, biting back the cry of pain. Tears sprung to her eyes unbidden.

Jacob dropped to her side. “You okay?” he asked.

“Fine,” she said. “Ankle hurts but its nothing.” She tried to get up and fell back biting her lip.

Jacob reached out to examine her ankle. “Let me see.”

“It's just twisted it… it'll be fine.”

Jacob looked round. “We need to get off the path and then I'll strap it up for you. We can probably rest a while if you need to.”

She shook her head. “No… just leave it. Give me a hand up.”

Jacob helped her up and sliding an arm round her took some of her weight. “Selmak thinks there is a stream about half a mile ahead. We can stop there.”

Marta nodded and they started moving again. She'd made enough fuss, she wasn't going to make anymore.

--- ---

Sam peered through the binoculars at the jaffa massing in front of the palace. “Looks like they are going somewhere,” she said. She handed the glasses to Teal'c.

Teal'c looked over at the palace. “There are indeed many of them,” he said. “They appear to be preparing for battle.”

“What was that?” Daniel asked as the sound of roaring echoed through the night.

Teal'c swung the glasses to the north following the movement of the jaffa.

Sam took the glasses from Daniel. “I didn't think jaffa took animals into battle,” she said.

“That doesn't sound like an animal I have ever come across,” Daniel commented.

Teal'c looked at Sam. “You have not. It is a ralkna.”

Daniel looked at him. “What's a ralkna? Or don't I want to know?”

Teal'c described the ralkna to them.

Daniel rolled his eyes. “Nope, I don't wanna know,” he said.

Teal'c turned his attention back to Sam. “They are heading towards the hunting grounds,” he said. “It is well known amongst the other system lords that Aries allows his jaffa to hunt with a ralkna. He invites them to watch on the monitors he has set up. The ralkna has a camera on its collar.”

Sam looked at him. “Hunt what?” she asked. “Each other?”

“Prisoners.”

Daniel looked at the animal by the jaffa. “That's a ralkna?”

Teal'c nodded. “It is said the ralkna is allowed to hunt and bring down the prisoners. If they are killed they are simply revived in the sarcophagus and then sent back to be hunted again.”

Sam looked at Teal'c. “Go and scout ahead. Find us a way in.”

Teal'c nodded and moved off quietly.

Daniel smiled slightly. “So we're definately going in there then?” he asked.

Sam nodded again. “Ba'al said they were here…” She broke off as Teal'c came back over to them.

He looked at her. “They are hunting special prey,” he told them. “I got close enough to overhear their conversation.”

“I don't like the sound of that,” Daniel said quietly. “Special prey?”

“Two Tok'ra spies from inside the palace,” Teal'c said. “An old man and a young woman. They do not expect them to get far as both had been tortured before they were released.”

Sam nodded. “Dad,” she said. “Okay we move out and follow the jaffa, at least for now. See if we can find tracks they can't.” She got up. “Let's go.”

--- ---

Jacob set Marta down by the stream. “Let me look at your ankle.” He said.

She shook her head, “Its fine, a few minutes rest and I'll be good to go on again.”

He looked at her. “Don't lie to me,” he said. “You are too much like Selmak… she'd keep going indefinitely if I wanted to, but no one can.”

Marta nodded and let him examine her ankle.

Jacob looked up at her. “You can't go anywhere on this,” he told her. He pulled off his shirt and tore it into strips.

“Jacob we can't stay here… they will find us.”

He started strapping her ankle. “Keep still,” he said as she moved her foot away.

She looked at him. “It's fine,” she said.

Jacob looked at her firmly. “Marta don't lie to me. I know it hurts and Selmak says it could be broken. You don't need to act the hero around us.”

Marta sighed. “But it could just be a sprain right?” She paused. “Yeah okay it hurts, but its fine. I'll just slow us down. Look, you go on ahead and I'll distract them somehow when they catch me up.”

Jacob shook his head. “No way!” he said firmly. “You will have this ankle strapped and then we'll rest for a few and then leave together…even if I have to carry you, I'm not leaving you behind!”

Marta looked at him and then looked away. She offered no further resistance; the only sign of pain she gave was a slight wince as Jacob firmly bound her ankle.

Jacob finished strapping her ankle. <Sel she is so like you. Stubborn, defiant and determined to keep going.>

<Yeah… that's why we have to keep watch Jacob… she'll sacrifice herself first chance she gets.>

<Not if I have any say in the matter. We go together or not at all.> He moved over to the stream and scooped up the cold water in his hands splashing it over his face before drinking some.

Marta limped over to him and sat down by the stream, drinking the water as fast as she could. “So where next?” she asked.

Jacob nodded to the east. “We keep going that way. Hopefully we'll find somewhere we can rest for a while. I can keep watch while you get some sleep.”

She shook her head. “Don't have time for sleep,” she said. “You said it yourself they are coming after us…” She broke off suddenly as a sound echoed over the trees. “What was that? Sounded like a horn…”

The sound echoed across the still chilly air again. Jacob nodded. “Hunting horn, they're coming.”

Marta struggled to her feet. “Then you had better move,” she said, “You'll stand a better chance without me.”

Jacob grabbed her wrist. “Not without you. Do I have to make good on my threat of carrying you?” he told her, starting to run and pulling her along with him.

--- ---

The jaffa moved swiftly through the forest, the ralkna easily picking up the scent of the two prisoners and increasing speed. The jaffa called to one another as they ran, the horns sounding to confirm position. This was different to normal battle training, where they operated in total silence.

The prisoners had been tagged before they had been released. Not that they knew that. There was another squadron of jaffa at the opposite end of the hunting ground. They were under strict radio silence. The prisoners would be driven towards them. And assuming the ralkna didn't kill the prisoners first, the other jaffa would.

--- ---

Teal'c swung the glasses to the east. “There are more jaffa coming from the other direction,” he said. “It would appear they are attempting to corner whomever they are chasing.”

Sam nodded. “Understood.” She looked at Daniel and made sweeping movements with her hands.

Daniel nodded and moved out.

--- ---

Marta struggled to keep up with Jacob. Her ankle really hurt and despite her pleas to leave her Jacob wouldn't hear of it. Her breath came hard and fast. The branches rustled as she brushed against them as she limped as fast as she could.

Jacob kept hold of Marta. He could feel them coming now, the sound of the ralkna and horns getting louder. He also knew that Marta was having problems. <We need to find somewhere to hide> he said.

Selmak nodded. <Or at least to hide her… we could distract them, keep them away from her.>

<No way, just like I told her.> Jacob paused, pulling Marta into the thick underbrush. “Ssh,” he said. He gasped for breath, trying to bring it back under control.

Marta collapsed to the ground, clutching her ankle.

--- ----

The jaffa watched as the ralkna picked up the scent and screeched at the top of its voice. It waved its long neck in the bushes, sending jets of poison into the undergrowth. It was hungry, and the scent of the prey was only serving to fuel that hunger.

--- ---

Jacob crouched in front of her, keeping watch as the movements got closer.

Marta leaned back against the tree, closing her eyes tightly, desperately trying to control the pain before it controlled her. “Leave me,” she whispered. “Just go…”

“NO!” Jacob told her firmly. His heart was pounding so loud he was sure the jaffa would hear it. He put a finger over his mouth as there were footsteps and voices on the path next to them.

--- ---

The ralkna moved down the path, howling and sniffing the bushes. It started getting more excited, pawing at the bushes as the scent got stronger. It pulled its head back and roared in delight straining on its leash. The jaffa sounded the horn and then let the ralkna loose. The ralkna immediately charged off the path into the undergrowth.

--- ---

“Move!” Jacob yelled, pulling Marta to her feet.

--- ---

The jaffa followed the ralkna into the brush. The roaring got louder as the ralkna found their prey, giving chase.

--- ---

Marta glanced over her shoulder. She could see it behind her but she couldn't run like this. She knew Jacob wouldn't go without her but there was no need for them both to die here. “Run!” she screamed.

--- ---

SG1 were about ten yards from the main body of jaffa when they let the ralkna loose. Sam looked up as she heard a woman cry out. She immediately made flanking movements with her hands and pulled her gun up ready to use.

--- ---

The ralkna flapped its wings, lifting off the ground. Jets of poison flew from its snout as it turned its head this way and that searching for its prey. It spotted them and circled twice sending poison jets towards the ground.

--- ---

Jacob pulled Marta out of the way, the poison missing her by inches. He pushed her aside, covering her with his body as the ralkna dived towards them.

--- ---

The ralkna shrieked with triumph as it caught hold of its prey.

--- ---

Snapping and growling filled Jacob's mind and senses, along with the sound of Marta's screams. Then another scream filled the air and it suddenly occurred to him that it was his own.

--- ---

Marta tried to get it off him, only succeeding it getting a jet of poison in her face for doing so. She screamed and fell on the ground, clutching her face, screaming as the poison burnt her skin. It felt like acid eating into her. Pain filled her senses, nothing else mattered anymore.

--- ---

Jacob felt his senses start to slides as the ralkna leaned over him, snapping and pulling at him. He cried out as the poison poured over his arm and neck. He heard Selmak scream and then her scream faded as teeth fastened onto the back on his neck and started to shake him. His eyes closed.

--- ---

Sam fired at the jaffa as and the rest of SG1 converged on their position.

Teal'c took careful aim at the ralkna. He fired three times.

The ralkna dropped the figured and turned, its head waving in search of the annoyance behind it. Flapping its huge wings it lifted off the ground.

Teal'c fired again, taking out the camera on its collar, the next shot taking out the ralkna itself just as it shot a jet of poison at him. He rolled missing the poison.

--- ---

The jaffa returned fire moving steadily forwards towards the enemy fire falling one at a time as they were picked off.

--- ---

Sam kept up the firing until she was sure that the jaffa were down. As the last one fell, Sam indicated to Daniel to run over and check Jacob and Marta. As much as she wanted to go herself, she was a better shot than him.

Daniel looked over at her and nodded slightly.

Sam allowed herself a small sigh of relief. She moved over to them. “Dad,” she said, keeping in a small gasp of shock. “Dad…”

There was no answer. Daniel looked at her. “He's unconscious. Probably a good thing right now.”

Sam turned to Marta and put a gentle hand on her arm. “How you doing?”

“I…” Marta paused. “I can't see and I think my ankle's broken.”

Sam nodded. “Okay… we'll give you a hand. Marta isn't it?” She watched the young girl nod. “Okay… Daniel, Let's get them back to the gate and home.”

Daniel nodded. “Sounds like a plan. Not gonna be easy though. They know we're here.”

Sam nodded. “But we can't stay here.” She looked at the two men. “Teal'c take Dad, Daniel help Marta.” She got to her feet, knowing the others would follow her orders without question. Then she set off back to the gate.

It was slow going as the jaffa were searching the grounds methodically now. Several times Sam had to take out two or three jaffa but finally as dawn started to break they made the fence where they had got it. Daniel pulled a face. “Daylight is gonna mean the gates guarded,” he said. “It's going to take us at least an hour to get back there if not more.”

Sam nodded. “Let's cross that bridge when we get there.”

The men nodded and slowly they set off towards the town. Then Teal'c stopped. “I have an idea,” he said. “Wait here.” He vanished into the gloom.

Sam watched him go, looking anxiously at the sky. Then she sat next to Jacob, cradling him in her arms. His breathing was slow and laboured and he was still deeply unconscious.

Teal'c was gone no more than five minutes before he reappeared with a cart and two horses attached to it. “This will take many minutes off our journey,” he said.

“Good thinking Teal'c,” Sam said. She helped load Jacob and Marta onto the cart then she and Daniel climbed in too.

Teal'c drove them quickly towards the gate arriving there shortly before the sun peeped above the horizon.

Sam jumped out of the cart. “Daniel dial us home fast,” she said. She helped Marta out of the cart and towards the gate, trusting that Teal'c would bring her father. She kept both eyes on the surrounding area as the gate dialled. Only when it opened and Daniel yelled “Let's go!” did she move.

Hunter's Bane3: Too Much Love Will Kill You

Sam looked round as they came through the gate into bright sunshine and sandy terrain. “Daniel…” she started.

He looked at her. “The Earth gate was busy and I figured the Tok'ra base would be better than the alpha site under the circumstances,” he said.

Marta passed out from the pain, the gate travel finally sending her battered and broken body into shock.

Sam just managed to compensate lowering her gently to the floor.

Two guards approached. “Let us help you,” they said. Another guard ran back to the tunnels looking for Garshaw or Malek or preferably both.

--- ---

Garshaw sat in Malek's office her hands cradling the cup. She inhaled deeply. “Smells wonderful,” she said.

“Tastes better than it smells,” Malek smiled. “Jared discovered this sometime ago and got me hooked. I can't start the day without it now.”

Garshaw sipped the herbal tea. “I can see why,” she said. She closed her eyes for a moment. ”Jacob would like this…”

Malek nodded, having wondered how long it would take her to mention her lover. “He does. I am sure we will hear soon,” he said gently. “One thing I have learned about the Tau'ri is that if they say they are going to do something, then they will do it.”

Garshaw nodded. “I should never have sent them… or let Delek manoeuvre the council into sending Marta.” She took another drink. “Ever since we heard they had been captured…”

Malek looked at her over his cup. “Did you get any sleep?” he asked.

She shook her head. “Too many nightmares,” she said. “Yosef blames herself, as do I.”

“You should not,” Malek said. “The council made the decision to send them.”

“Yes but… we knew Selmak had been there before which meant that…” She broke off. “I was wrong.”

Malek looked at her. “We all know the risks,” he said. “But it is harder when it is someone we love that we send out there.”

Garshaw nodded. “If anything should happen to them…”

“Then we help them recover,” Malek finished. “They will need you and Yosef when they get back, need your strength and your love.”

Garshaw looked down. “I have no strength to give them. I am outwardly calm but inwardly… we are a mess.”

“Then just give them your love,” Malek said. “Be there for them; hold them through the nightmares that will come.”

She smiled slightly. “That goes without saying.”

Malek looked up as someone ran into the office. “What is it?” he asked recognising the guard from the gate.

“Malek, Colonel Carter's team have just arrived through the Chappa'ai. They have Selmak and Marta with them.”

Garshaw got to her feet. “How are they?” she breathed.

“It does not look good. Neither of them is conscious. They are on the way to the healing chambers.”

Garshaw paled, her cry of shock being echoed by Yosef. “What have I done?” she whispered. She glanced at Malek and both of them set off at a run for the healing chambers.

--- ---

Sam stood by her father's bed, watching anxiously as Elsie ran the scanner over him. She murmured quietly to herself as she did so, her face giving away the severity of his injuries.

One of the other healers checked over Marta and then moved over to Elise and showed her the scanner.

Daniel moved over to Sam. “I should contact Jack; let him know where we are. You want us to stay?”

Sam shook her head. “No… you and Teal'c go back to Earth and fill General O'Neill in. I'm going to stay here.”

Daniel nodded. “I'm sure he'll be in touch.”

“More than likely.” She watched them leave and then turned her attention back to her father. He was lying on his side so Elise could look at his back and neck.

“Did you put the dressing on his neck?” Elise asked.

Sam nodded. “Selmak was exposed. I thought it would keep the dirt out of the wound.”

Shock registered on Elise's face. “Selmak is exposed?” She started to remove the dressing.

Sam nodded. “Teal'c said the animal attacking him was a ralkna…”

Elise looked up. “That accounts for the burns…” She looked back down and ran the scanner over Jacob's neck. “It is a miracle they are still alive.”

Sam gripped her father's hand. “Don't you give up Dad,” she told him.

Elise looked at her hand. “What happened to your hand?”

Sam looked at it. It was red and raw and weeping. “I don't know… I must have hurt it somehow.”

Running the scanner over it Elise nodded. “Ralkna burns,” she said. “You must have touched something that had been covered with the poison or been sprayed with it yourself.”

“I was helping Dad and Marta,” Sam said. “But it doesn't hurt.”

Elise looked at her. “It will. Let someone treat it for you.”

Sam nodded. “Just see to the others first… how's Dad?”

Elise was about to answer when two figures ran into the room. There was an audible gasp from Garshaw as she saw the bloodied figures lying on the sleeping platforms.

Malek laid a hand on her shoulder in silent support while she composed herself and then they moved over to where Jacob lay.

“How is he?” Garshaw asked.

Elise looked at Sam and then at Garshaw. “Both Jacob and Selmak are very badly hurt. Jacob's back looks like it was torn to shreds by some kind of whip. There is evidence of pain stick torture. The marks are starting to fade so it looked as if Selmak was starting to heal them.”

“Was?” Garshaw breathed.

Elise nodded. “Jacob has bite and claw marks to much of his body and in particular his neck, where the bite mark is exposing Selmak. There are also burns to his arms, back and neck. Right now he is completely paralysed.”

Garshaw looked at Sam. “What happened?” she asked.

Sam looked at her. “Teal'c said the creature was a ralkna… they were being hunted by it and several jaffa when we found them.”

Garshaw closed her eyes, colour draining from her face.

Malek immediately slid an arm round her to keep her upright.

“Can you heal him?” Garshaw whispered.

Elise nodded. “With time I should be able to heal most of his injuries. We can use the symbiote medicine to help Selmak and that along with the healing device should be enough for them both.”

Malek looked over at the other figure. “And Marta?” he asked.

Elise looked over at the other bed. “Marta has substantial injuries to her back. It looks like the same kind of whip but used far more severely. The wounds expose the muscles in places. Her right ankle is badly broken and could well be permanently damaged despite what I can do. She has burns to her face and eyes… the optic nerves are beyond my capability to heal.”

Garshaw looked at her. “Blind and crippled?” she asked.

Elise nodded. “It is possible a symbiote could cure her, it would depend how soon we can blend her.”

Malek looked at Garshaw. “Then shall I see what I can do?”

Garshaw nodded. “Yes…”

Sam looked at Garshaw. “We came here as the Earth gate was busy…”

Garshaw shook her head. “No need to apologise. It is better they are here than on your base…” Her eyes were drawn back to her love. “I need you to tell me what happened.”

Elise looked at her. “Colonel Carter is also injured,” she said. “She has ralkna burns to her hand.”

“It'll fine,” Sam said.

Garshaw looked at her and then Elise. “Perhaps I could heal it while you fill me in.”

Sam smiled slightly. “You are starting to talk like Dad,” she said. “That's one of his expressions. Used to dread it when I was a kid. Especially if something happened and he found out about it. He'd stand there, hands behind his back and say ‘now you fill me in young lady'.”

Garshaw smiled. She took the healing device from Elise. “I know that look … he uses it on the council.” She activated it over Sam's hand. “Now… what happened?”

--- ---

Jacob lay still, aware of everything yet unable to move or respond. He had heard her say he was paralysed but every part of his body hurt. He could feel Elise touching him, her touch although gentle feeling like sandpaper on his torn and broken body. He knew Sam, Garshaw and Yosef were there and longed to move or open his eyes. A burning sensation filled him, getting worse by the second. <Selmak?> he whispered.

<Jacob> she replied reaching out for him.

<Hey> he said feeling her trembling.

Selmak almost cried with relief. <Where are we?>

<Home I think… how are you?>

Jacob's heart sank as she called him Jake. She never did that. <What is it?>

Jacob's agonised cry filled the room despite the paralysis affecting every part of his body.

Elise grabbed the scanner and ran it over him. “No you don't,” she said quietly and barked orders to her staff.

Garshaw ran to his side, as did Sam. Garshaw grabbed his hand. “Jacob… I'm here,” she said.

Jacob continued to cry out, unable to even open his eyes.

One of the other healers came across with the symbiote medicine and Elise injected it into Selmak directly. “You fight it Selmak,” she whispered. “I am not going to lose you now.”

Garshaw looked at her. “What is wrong?”

“Selmak's life signs are dropping. She is trying to heal Jacob at the expense of herself.”

Yosef pushed herself fore. “She can't… We need them both…”

Elise looked at her. “I am not about to let her. I need to sedate both of them right down and put them on life support for several hours while we heal them.” She looked at Sam. “As his next of kin…”

“Do it,” Sam said. Her stomach turned and her heart leapt into her throat. Surely it wasn't all for nothing.

Jacob laid there, tears pricking his eyes. Everything hurt so much he just wanted it to stop but not at Selmak's expense. <Sel please… they need you…>

<Need you more> she whispered. <No one needs me anymore… I'm old Jake… unwanted, unloved, old…>

<Noooooo… I want and love you… Garshaw and Yosef love and want you… please….> He could feel her slipping away now. He tried to force his eyes open, to give the others in the room some indication that things were wrong.

Selmak hugged him one last time. <It's been a blast…> she whispered. <A long rollercoaster of fun Jake… thank you…> Her eyes closed and she made the last supreme effort needed to heal him. Then she felt everything start to go black.

Jacob could feel her die. Tears ran down his cheeks. He didn't want her to go, didn't want to be left alone… Didn't want to survive without her. Didn't want it to end like this, so pointlessly.

Elise worked fast. The life signs in front of her were fading fast and she wasn't about to let that happen. She looked up at last. “Okay, they are both on life support.” She looked at the other healers. “You know what to do. I will help shortly.” She looked over at the door as Malek came in. “Any luck?” she asked.

Malek nodded. “Yes… what has happened here?”

“Selmak decided to do the noble thing… I had to intervene and put them both on total life support for now.”

Malek closed his eyes for an instant. “I had wondered if she might,” he said quietly. Then he looked at Marta. “How is she doing?”

Elise moved over to her and picked up the scanner. “Not good,” she said. “She is deteriorating fast… if she does not blend within the next few minutes then…”

Malek nodded. “They are sending someone from one of the other bases. We need to get her into a chamber alone…”

Elise looked at him. “Who?” she asked quietly.

“Korra,” he whispered.

Elise closed her eyes. “It has happened sooner than we thought,” she said.

Malek nodded. “He can no longer keep Jor'el going. They will be here shortly.” He moved over to the bed and lifted Marta gently into his arms. “We'll use her chamber, might make things easier for her.”

Elise nodded and followed him from the room.

--- ---

Twenty minutes later, Malek looked up as the messenger arrived. “I'm coming,” he said, knowing in an instant what it was about.

In Marta's chamber, Korra stood, with help looking down at her. His face belied the amount of pain he was in. “How badly is she hurt?”

Elise looked at him. “I have healed some of her ankle but her optic nerves and muscular damage to her back are too great even for the healing device.”

Korra nodded. “I do not know if even I can…”

Elise nodded. “I know. It is a long shot. She is also unconscious and we have not been able to ask her for permission to blend her.”

Korra looked at her. “But she has agreed in principal?”

Malek came in and overheard that. “Yes she has,” he said. He moved over to them. He hugged Korra. “How are you?”

Korra hugged him back. “Not good… if we are to do this it will have to be soon.”

Malek nodded. “I know.”

Korra leaned over the bed and looked at Marta. “Let's do it,” he said. He let Malek lay him down next to her and heard the scanner whirring quietly as he leaned over her and kissed her .<Goodbye Jor'el> he whispered.

--- ---

Elise stood by Marta's side, running the scanner over her. “They are both stable,” she said. “Both weak but alive.”

Malek nodded. “How soon will we know?”

“As soon as Korra wakes we should have some idea if her injuries are repairable.” Elise looked up as Aldwin came in. “You will call me as soon as there is any change?” she asked.

Aldwin nodded.

--- ---

In the healing chambers Jacob lay still sedated but not still. He and Selmak were having severe nightmares and the medics had had to restrain them to prevent them doing any further damage to themselves.

Sam and Garshaw hadn't left his side at all. Sam had finally let Elsie do the post mission check General O'Neill had insisted on via the comm system. He'd even threatened to come out and do it himself. She now sat there almost asleep, the both mental and physical exhaustion of the past 36 hours catching up with her.

Yosef looked at her. “You should rest Samantha,” she said.

“I'm fine,” Sam insisted. She pushed herself upright.

Yosef looked at her. “No,” she said. “You're shattered.”

Sam smiled. “Definitely been spending too much time with Dad,” she said. “To be honest, dead on my feet is more like it.”

Yosef nodded. “Then go and rest. Elise will send for you when he wakes.”

“I can't leave him.”

“Then rest here,” Yosef pointed to one of the empty sleeping platforms. “The instant he wakes we will wake you.”

Sam reluctantly agreed and lay down. She was asleep almost as soon as her head touched the surface.

After Sam had fallen asleep, Yosef sat by Jacob's bed for a while before Elise shooed her out to get something to eat. Yosef sat by herself and sobbing quietly pushed the food round the plate, not really wanting it.

<They'll be okay. They have to be.> Garshaw whispered.

Yosef shook her head. <They won't… I know it. We shouldn't have sent them. What if they die… what do we do then?>

Garshaw shuddered at the thought. 

Yosef stood and put the plate away not having eaten anything. <Without them there is nothing. No point to living.>

Garshaw hugged her. <They have to be fine. Elise will not let anything happen to them.>

Garshaw gently took control and let Yosef retreat. She softly let Yosef sleep too. She returned to the healing chambers and sat by Jacob's bed, keeping silent watch over all of them.

--- ---

Twelve hours later Marta woke slowly. Something wasn't right. She sat up her hand going to her eyes. Yes they were open but then why was it dark? Why couldn't she see anything?

<It is alright Marta> a voice said.

“It's not alright,” she responded. “I can't see…” She paused, her hands reaching blindly in front of her. “Where are you?”

Korra laughed. <Right here.>

“Don't laugh at me,” she said. She got up and shuffled forwards. “And don't play games, its not fair. Who are you?”

“So where are you?” She didn't recognise the name but wanted to know where exactly this person was.

<Here> he said touching her gently.

Marta jumped and screamed, not expecting that at all.

Malek came running in. He'd been on his way to see her and her scream had only increased his pace. “Marta? Are you okay?”

Marta reached out for him. “Malek…” she gasped a mixture of fear and relief in her voice. “There's someone here… but I can't see him and he touched me and…”

Malek gently took hold of her hands. “It is only Korra. Here sit down.” He guided her back to the bed. “May I run some scans?”

Marta nodded. “Why can't I see? Who's Korra? Tell him to leave me alone…”

<That will be a little hard> Korra said gently not wanting to frighten her any more than he already had.

Malek noticed her flinch and pull back. He guessed Korra was trying to talk to her. “We had to blend you with a symbiote,” he said gently. “It was earlier than we had planned and unfortunately without you being awake for the transition.”

“I had hoped that I would be awake for that.”

Malek put a hand on her shoulder. “Korra's host was dying and your injuries were extensive enough that…” He paused. “You would have died,” he said gently.

“Oh,” she whispered.

He nodded. “You were here as a potential host.”

Marta nodded. “I thought I had messed up that. Delek said that…” She broke off and laughed slightly. “Korra says to take everything Delek told me with a pinch of salt.”

Malek laughed. “That sounds about right. According to the scans you are almost healed. Your optic nerves took the most amount of damage; Korra is still attempting to heal them.”

Marta looked in the direction of his voice. “How is Jacob? He took the full force of the ralkna's attack …”

Malek took a deep breath. “Jacob and Selmak are not doing so well,” he said honestly.

“Will you take me to him?”

Malek nodded. “Of course.” He took Marta's arm and led her from the room.

As they walked Marta talked quietly to Korra. She liked him, she decided. They had the same wicked sense of humour, same dislike of Delek and respect for Malek and Jacob. <I'm sorry I reacted the way I did… I just wasn't expecting it…>

<No worries> Korra told her, having already picked up on some of her sayings. 

--- ---

It was another day before Jacob slowly opened his eyes. He couldn't move and for one moment he panicked, thinking he was back in the torture chamber again. “Noooooo!” he cried out.

Garshaw immediately put a hand on his face. “It is alright,” she told him. “I am here.”

He flicked his eyes to her. “I can't move,” he said.

Sam took his other hand. “Hey Dad,” she said. “They have you strapped down right now so they can finish healing you. You and Selmak are pretty banged up.”

Jacob closed his eyes, fighting the rush of emotion that filled him. “Selmak's dead,” he whispered.

Garshaw shook her head. “No, she's not. She's badly hurt, just like you, but not dead.”

“But… I don't understand.”

Sam looked at Garshaw. “Elise put you both on life support for a while. It'll be a while longer but you should both be fine.”

Jacob looked at her. “Alright,” he said. “How long?”

“Coming up on two days,” Elise said coming across with the scanner. “And your daughter is every bit as stubborn as you are.”

Jacob smiled slightly. “Chip off the old block,” he said.

Sam nodded. “Yeah… wouldn't have it any other way Dad.”

<Isn't one grouchy Carter enough in the morning?> a familiar voice complained. <Do I have to contend with both of you?>

Jacob's eyes filled with tears and he closed them quickly. <Sel> he said hugging her tightly.

Selmak hugged him back. <Hey you. What say you we blow this joint and go shoot some pool?>

<Don't you mean go soak in the pool?> Jacob teased, so pleased to have her alive and well that he'd agree to almost anything right now.

<Sounds good to me… so long as we are not alone.>

<You're on.> Jacob looked over at Garshaw. “Selmak's awake… wants to go for a bath.”

Garshaw laughed. “Nothing changes.” She leaned forwards and kissed him.

Jacob slid an arm round her neck and kissed her back, deepening the kiss.

Sam looked at Elise. “I ummm might come back later,” she said embarrassed.

Elise nodded. “Think I will too.”

They both left the others alone. Neither of them even noticing them leave the room.

--- ---

Four days later Marta and Jacob appeared in front of the council to give them the report. Even though Jacob had assured her it was purely routine and they weren't going to be condemned for anything they had said or done, Marta wasn't convinced. She tried not to tremble as she stood there. It didn't help with Delek eyeing her up the way he did.

Jacob looked at Garshaw as he spoke, outlining what they had done and how they had attended the meal at Aries palace only under duress. He emphasised that it had been the presence of Ba'al there that had given them away as Tok'ra and nothing that he or Marta had done.

Delek looked at Marta. “Are you sure you did not betray yourself and Selmak?” he asked. “You skills at serving are not the best.”

Marta looked at him. “I perfected them,” she said. “Besides if I were to serve you now, your dinner would still end up in your lap.”

Jacob laughed to himself, hearing Selmak giggle too. “I taught her myself,” he said. “She did nothing to give us away. Ba'al himself recognised me as soon as he saw me.”

Delek nodded. “You both survived,” he said accusingly.

Jacob rolled his eyes. “And?”

“Standing orders state no Tok'ra will be taken alive,” Delek told him.

Selmak shook her head. <Enough!> she said coming fore. She looked at Delek. “And?” she repeated. “I can assure you that our surviving was none of your doing. Or the council's doing. Ba'al himself got a message to the Tau'ri. They sent in the rescue team. Because unlike us they do not believe in leaving a man behind.”

Delek rose to his feet. “What are you implying?” he asked.

“The information was not there. It never was. We were sent in with no chance of getting out. You deliberately sent Marta in, knowing how Aries would react if he saw her.”

Delek looked at Marta. “She is an attractive woman yes… so were you at one point.”

Selmak slammed a hand down on the table. “And do you know how Aries treats women Delek?”

Delek just looked at her.

“You bastard!” Selmak said. “You knew! You knew and you sent her anyway…”

Delek still didn't say anything.

Marta looked at him and then at Garshaw. “May I?” she asked.

Garshaw nodded, knowing exactly what Marta had planned.

Marta looked at Delek. “I want to thank you,” she said.

Selmak looked at her. “WHAT?” she managed giving control back to an equally angry Jacob. “You can't be serious?”

Marta put a hand on Jacob's arm and nodded. “Oh but I am.” She turned back to Delek and moved round the table to where he stood. “Korra and I would both like to thank you for sending me. It was an interesting first mission.” She moved in close to Delek, running a hand down his face, looking into his eyes. “Oh it had its bad points but some good came out of it.”

Delek looked into her eyes, hardly able to believe his luck here. “It did?”

Marta nodded, moving her fingers over his lips. “It showed me who I could trust and who I couldn't.” She moved closer, her face almost touching his now. “And it gave me Korra.” She smiled at him. “Thank you.” She leaned in, kissing him gently at first and then firmer.

Jacob tried not to gag as he watched. Then he saw Garshaw grinning and looked at her curiously.

Marta put her arms round Delek and responded to him as he deepened the kiss. Then she pulled the knife from her sleeve and pressed it against his neck. “And if you Ever pull a stunt like that again, I will see you serve on some outpost so remote it has no gate and just a monastery for company.”

Delek froze and tried to pull back to find himself held firmly.

Marta kept the eye contact. Then her eyes glowed slightly as Korra came fore. He moved the knife from Delek's throat and placed it far lower on his body. “And if you ever make a move on my host again you will be singing soprano for the rest of your life!” he said.

Marta came fore again and let Delek go, moving back round to Jacob. She grinned at him. “Korra's wanted to do that for years,” she whispered.

Jacob smiled. “So's Selmak.”

Garshaw looked at them, regaining her composure as the rest of the council tried to regain theirs. Delek just stood there looking uncomfortable.

Marta put the knife back into the sheath on her arm and then slid her sleeve back down. She looked at the council. “Was there anything else you need to know?” she asked.

Garshaw shook her head. The shy young girl they had first sent out had blossomed a lot and had a lot of potential. “You may both go,” she said. She dismissed the council and joined Jacob as he headed towards the surface.

Jacob slid his arm into hers. “Could have been worse,” he said. “I think Marta took Delek by surprise there. Did you know what she was planning?”

“I had a fair idea… she asked what the punishment was for threatening a council member.”

Jacob laughed. “And …?”

“As I told her it depends on the council member.” Garshaw laughed for a moment and then looked at him seriously. “Are you sure you are alright?”

Jacob nodded. “Yes… we're fine. Nothing a week's vacation with you won't solve.”

She smiled. “I do not know that I am ready for a week with your grandchildren though,”

Jacob smiled. “Just remember to spoil them and you'll do fine.”

--- ---

Sam met them at the SGC. “You look better,” she said hugging her father.

“So do you Sam,” he told her. Then he looked at Jack. “Thank you,” he said. “We owe you our lives.”

Jack shrugged. “Just owe me one,” he said. “And have a good vacation.” He lowered his voice. “Make sure that daughter of yours rests too. She works way too hard.”

Jacob nodded. “I will.”

Jack turned to Garshaw. “And what can I do for you?” he asked.

Garshaw nodded to him. “I am making sure that Jacob rests,” she said. “He also works too hard.”

Daniel laughed. “Just like I said, chip of the old block,” he grinned.

Sam looked at him. “We should go. Mark is going to meet us at the airport.”

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