Shifting the strap of his P-90, Jack O’Neill rotated his shoulder – trying to work out some of the stiffness that had settled there. The weight of his pack was familiar and comforting despite its awkwardness. Daniel had moaned but Jack had insisted the team gear up. Better safe than sorry, Jack felt. I’d rather stand around for hours in a full kit than be caught without resources… particularly with our backup still at least half a day away.

McConnell had radioed Jack immediately after the attention grabbing landing of the spacecraft wanting to know ‘Just what the hell was that!’ After a quick briefing, the members of the Marine units had dropped all but the most essential gear and started double-timing it to the temple complex. Jack had ordered them to stay out of sight unless they heard from him directly or there was trouble. It looks like they aren’t gonna make the show.

The Chosen had spent the last few hours in a flurry of activity. Apparently, several ceremonies had to take place in order for the Chosen to greet Khonsu’s galactic bagman –or whatever – properly. Mahlia, the other Chosen, and the rest of the temple residents were scrambling to put everything into place. It wasn’t being done haphazardly. Everything seemed to have been pre-arranged. It was simply a matter of carrying out what you had been assigned to do. Once they had gotten over the initial awe of seeing the ship enter the atmosphere the young people had moved with a speed and efficiency that rivaled some of the military units Jack had served in during his career.

Mahlia had taken the time to offer hasty explanations to SG-1, assuring them she had not – yet – changed her mind about refusing to leave. Jack had given her a quick run-down of his plan which basically consisted of stay alert, see what’s happening, play it safe and wait for the Marines to show before trying to shake things up too badly. He didn’t have enough information to do much more than that. Daniel and Teal’c had gone off to try to get a better idea of what was coming next. He and Carter were left behind trying to stay out of the way while they kept an eye on the preparations.

“Sir, it looks like they are almost done here,” said Carter. Jack looked around and realized she was right. The few remaining tables in the hall had been pushed together to form a large head table at the far end of the room. Snow-white tablecloths and ornate candelabras were being set into place. Several smaller tables were arranged around the outer edges of the room. Centerpieces of greenery and freshly cut flowers completed the effect. Half-burnt torches were replaced with fresh ones. More torches were brought in and lit as well – chasing away the dark shadows and corners.

The musicians were back and setting up to the left of the long table. The lightheartedness and banter from the previous evening was gone. It had been replaced with a seriousness that was discomforting to Jack after their youthful exuberance at the prior night’s gathering. They were all dressed similarly in deep green tunics that had a formal look to them. The boys were in trousers and the girls in voluminous divided skirts.

The rest of the young men and women in the hall were disappearing rapidly. The only ones remaining were still completing arrangements on the tables or making last minute adjustments to the woven hangings and tapestries that adorned the room.

Jack thumbed his radio and spoke softly.

“Daniel. Teal’c. Where are you?”

“O’Neill. We are at the front gate of the temple, near the lake. Mahlia instructed us to remain here.”

“Okay. We’ll be joining you in a few. Any other news?”

“Negative. The ship landed in a clearing on the far side of the lake. We have seen no sign of movement in the immediate area, but I did not believe it wise to approach the craft as of yet.”

“I agree,” Jack replied. “Let’s play it safe for now. We’re on our way.”
“Understood, O’Neill.”

Jack released his radio and nodded at Carter. None of the young people remaining took any notice of them as they left the hall and headed for the street.

“They’ve been busy,” observed Carter as they passed through the doors and headed down the steps to the main avenue. Blazing torches lined the wide street along both sides, their light strong enough to cast multiple shadows on the paving stones.

“This must be the parade route. Ya’ think they’ll have Shriners?”

Just ahead of them, a handful of temple residents turned a corner from a side street and began walking towards the main gate as well. They walked quickly, without talking to one another. As they drew closer to the main gate, more people filed onto the street.

“Looks like we’re right on time, Sir.”

“But for what?” Jack asked. “If all these people are headed for the entrance, we’re gonna have a hard time finding Teal’c and Daniel in this crowd.” Carter nodded in agreement and Jack walked a little faster. We need to find them before this goes down. I don’t think it’s a good idea for us to be split up right now.

Surprisingly, the scene at the main gate was quite ordered. The spectators were fanning out along the paths that encircled the lake, leaving the plaza nearly empty.
“Jack!” Daniel’s voice sounded loud, even with the mass of people already present. The temple residents were quiet. The only conversations being held were in hushed whispers.

“Daniel,” said Jack as he and Carter approached the other half of SG-1. “Did you find us a good spot?”

“Uh… Mahlia sent word to us that we should wait over there,” answered Daniel, pointing to where Teal’c waited by the lake’s edge.

“Have you found out anything else?” Jack asked as they walked over to join Teal’c.

“Incredible,” said Carter as they took in the sight of the lake before them.

“Yeah… they did that about a half hour ago,” explained Daniel.

Thousands of candles floated on the surface of the lake, the dazzling display made more remarkable as the flickering light was reflected in the smooth surface of the water. All around the lake path the residents were lighting additional candles and holding them in their hands.

“Daniel Jackson believes it is meant to represent the stars in the night sky,” said Teal’c.

“Well it’s just a guess really…”

“Damn good one if you ask me,” interrupted Jack. The effect was quite impressive. He forced himself to pull his attention away from the lake and turned to Daniel. “So do we have any new intel or what?”

“Mahlia and the other Chosen didn’t really have time to talk,” said Daniel.

“Everyone else seemed to busy to bother answering questions. The only thing we really know is that this is some sort of ritualized greeting for Khonsu’s representatives.”

“A greeting?” Jack repeated. “So the Chosen aren’t just gonna go board that ship and take off, right?”

“Uh, no. Evidently the twelve Chosen have the opportunity to impress Khonsu’s people by displaying their abilities first.”

“How do you mean?”

“Well I’d imagine it’s a way of demonstrating their various skills and uh… their intelligence.”

Jack grunted, his eyes narrowing. “Yeah,” he said, “and a way for Khonsu’s people to size up the merchandise.” I wouldn’t be surprised to see them checking out the Chosen’s teeth.

“So we still have some time?” Carter asked.

Daniel shrugged. “I guess,” he answered. “But I have no idea how long.”

“At least until the talent show is over,” Jack observed. “However long that will take them.”

Jack heard the low steady sound of a drumbeat. Turning to look at the source of the sound, he saw the Chosen walking in a double line through the large stone gateway. They were dressed all in white again and they stepped slowly in time with each beat of the drum. Jack searched their faces for any sign of the carefree happiness he had observed the previous night. The only thing he saw now was an intense somberness that did little to temper his mood.

The twelve young men and women slowly made their way across the wide plaza and arranged themselves in a semicircle at the lake’s edge. The drum beat stopped. In the silence Jack waited to see what was next.

The silence continued and Jack kept waiting. Well? He shifted his weight, rocking on the balls of his feet. Glancing toward the rest of his team he caught Carter’s eye and half-shrugged, a smirk on his face. Now what?

“Daniel?” Jack called softly. Daniel looked at him. Jack made a show of looking at his watch and the archeologist rolled his eyes and sighed.

“I thought you wanted more time,” the younger man bluntly reminded him.
“Well I don’t feel like standing around all night!” Jack shot back. I hate waiting. I need to be doing…something.

“O’Neill.” Teal’c’s low voice commanded immediate attention. “There is movement.” Teal’c lowered the night-vision binoculars he was holding.

“Let me see,” O’Neill ordered, stepping up to stand next to Teal’c. He took the binoculars from Teal’c and scanned the opposite shore of the lake. In only moments, he located the targets and was focusing for a better view. Five… no six figures… No weapons visible. Well, they look human enough. He lowered the binoculars and handed them off to Carter.

“Jack?”

“Six of them,” Jack replied. “I can’t see any weapons and they look human.”

“Well, that’s good… isn’t it?” Daniel asked.

“The Goa’uld look human too,” said Carter, passing the binoculars to Daniel. “At least until their eyes start glowing or they start speaking.”

“That craft did not appear to be of Goa’uld design,” said Teal’c.

“I know, Teal’c. I’m just saying we shouldn’t make any assumptions just yet. Even if they aren’t Goa’uld they might not be what they appear to be.”

“They are at the lake,” Daniel observed. “Two of the temple residents are leading them to that boat we saw when we arrived.” He lowered the binoculars and Jack took them back from him. “Of course!” Daniel shook his head. “I should have realized!”

“What?” Jack demanded.

“At Karnak—our Karnak I mean… on Earth—the lake was used during certain festivals. They set barges afloat with images of the gods aboard. This… this is simply a carryover of that tradition.”

Jack watched as two of the young men from the temple escorted the six arrivals into the waiting boat. They sat on the low benches and the boys took up positions at the bow and stern of the boat and began using long poles to ease the craft across the lake. The floating candles were gently pushed aside as the boat made its way to the opposite shore. It left a clearly defined trail of darkness its wake.

Jack lowered the binoculars as the boat reached the half-way point. The Chosen and other spectators had remained quiet and still so far. Jack couldn’t shake the feeling that this was somehow going to go all wrong at any minute. I’d feel a lot better if McConnell and the rest of the Marines were here to back us up, he thought. Still, there’s only six—unless they have backup of their own still hidden in the ship. Let’s hope they’ve grown complacent.

The boat slid quietly up to the wooden dock and the two temple residents quickly secured it by attaching ropes to the pylons. The six passengers carefully went ashore. As they left the dock and reached the paved surface of the plaza, the twelve Chosen folded themselves to their knees and bowed their heads to the ground. Jack winced. Taking a slight step forward he shook his head and stopped himself. Look before you leap, Jack! He admonished himself.

Mahlia stood and the remaining Chosen rose a moment later.

“Khonsu protects and provides,” Mahlia intoned, making the crescent sign.

“Khonsu protects and provides,” repeated the rest of the Chosen as they did the same. The phrase echoed loudly in the night air. The watching residents took it up as well and the words rolled fluidly around the lake, those nearest speaking first and the ones farther away taking up the cry as the sound reached them. Their own version of the wave, Jack mused.

“We welcome Khonsu’s Honored Ones,” said Mahlia. “We are humbled by his magnificence and seek to be worthy of serving in Ipet-isut.”

“Khonsu is just. Khonsu has sent us to determine your worthiness. The honor of service in Ipet-isut is your reward as Chosen.” The man’s voice was strong but not too deep. He spoke in way that suggested the words were simply part of the ritual and they seemed to be a signal for the next phase of events.

“May you find us worthy,” said Mahlia. The drum beat began again. Mahlia and the Chosen turned on their heels began filing out of the plaza once again forming a double row as they walked. The six visitors fell in behind them. The residents standing closest to them also began walking through the large gate.

“Let’s go,” ordered Jack. “I don’t want them out of our sight.” He led SG-1 away from the lake, following the Chosen and their guests.

* * * * *

“Well, Daniel, when exactly will we get to speak with Mahlia again?” Jack heard the frustration in his own voice and sighed. I shouldn’t take this out on him, he thought.
“I don’t know, Jack,” Daniel was using that tone of voice Jack hated. The one that said ‘Calm down, Jack’ and which always made him feel that he was behaving like a complete ass. Although it’s probably pretty appropriate at the moment, he reluctantly admitted to himself.

They had followed the Chosen and the new arrivals back to the Great Hall hours ago only to have the door shut in their faces. No one but the Chosen and Khonsu’s people were allowed. I’m gettin’ pretty damned tired of cooling my heels out here.
He, Carter, and Daniel were sitting on the steps that led to the Hall; Teal’c stood at the foot of the steps looking out towards the street. The other temple residents had scattered, perhaps to catch a few hours of sleep or for some other purpose Jack hadn’t guessed at yet. He was starting to feel a little silly for making his team hang out in front of the doorway but it had seemed like a good idea at the time. The sky was starting to lighten. Sunrise was not far away.

“I don’t think they are in any danger, Jack.”

“I just want to know what’s going on, Daniel. If Mahlia is trying to break the news that they aren’t exactly thrilled with the prospect of serving their ‘god’ any more then they might need our help.”

“I’m wondering what Brannan is doing,” offered Carter. “We hadn’t exactly gotten that whole issue straight when our guests arrived.”

Jack had worried over that little problem as well. The young Chosen had been hell-bent on stirring up trouble by opposing Mahlia and the others who were looking for a change.

“I’m betting Mahlia has a handle on things,” said Daniel.

“Someone is coming,” warned Teal’c.

A group of temple residents were headed their way. Jack stood as they came closer. Daniel and Carter joined him.

“Colonel Jack!” A voice called out. Jack didn’t know who the boy was but he recognized him as one of Raynar’s friends. “You waited here all this time?”

“Yes, we uh… didn’t want to miss anything,” Jack answered. “Is something happening?”

“Very soon we will all gather in the Great Hall for a morning meal. We will learn if the Chosen have been accepted.”

“How do you mean ‘if’ they have been accepted?” Daniel questioned.

“It is a formality,” explained the young man. “The Chosen are always accepted. But after the announcement, the new Chosen will be named!”

“Great,” drawled Jack. “And you’re ready to step right up and fill their shoes when they’re gone, right?”

“Jack…” Daniel warned, dropping his voice to a whisper. “It’s not like that.”

“Alright… fine.” Jack knew Daniel was right. The boy just didn’t understand what the consequences were for the current Chosen.

“When will this gathering take place?” Jack backed off, happy to let Daniel diplomatically switch gears and steer the conversation to safer ground.

“Very soon,” said the young man. “Everyone will be coming here.”

Even as he spoke another group of residents rounded a corner and headed for the Hall. Jack wondered if he meant all of the residents of the temple. That will be quite a crowd.

“You don’t mean everyone who was at the lake do you?” Daniel asked.

“No. Only the candidates for the next year’s Chosen.” Ah, of course, thought Jack. So they can get a sneak preview of next year’s merchandise?

The doors to the Great Hall opened, sparing Jack from further conversation with the eager young man. Jack half expected Mahlia or one of the others to be in the doorway but it was another of the residents. She gestured for them to enter.

Jack motioned for his team to follow her into the building and steadied himself for whatever was ahead. Soft music gave the place a seemingly peaceful atmosphere. Mahlia and the other Chosen were seated at the head table, along with Khonsu’s six representatives. The newly arriving temple residents fanned out and took seats at the extra tables arranged around the room.

Carter was giving him the raised eyebrows look. Any minute now and we’re gonna be center stage! Daniel was surreptitiously trying to coax him toward one of the tables. Jack looked toward the head table and considered the six new people that were waiting. Four men... two women. Older than the Chosen of course. And starting to wonder just who the hell we are.

Jack knew the smart thing to do was sit down and shut up until the time was right. Daniel was practically quivering. Jack ignored the archeologist’s agitation and stood his ground in the center of the room. One of the women leaned over and whispered something to the man next to her. Frowning, he shook his head slightly and turned to look directly at Jack. One question answered, Jack thought. My counterpart…

The man in question was fairly ordinary looking; there was nothing too remarkable about him. He had neatly cropped dark brown hair. Only gray at the temples, Jack noticed with mild annoyance. Crow’s feet around the eyes and a couple of creases across a high brow gave him a slightly mature look. A closely trimmed mustache and beard with only the barest hints of gray completed the image.

Grey-blue eyes casually assessed the members of SG-1 standing in front of the table. His gaze flicked over each one of them, lingering momentarily on Teal’c. That’s right… he’s a big one. Carter shifted her weight and adjusted the grip on her P-90. As the man studied the item, he raised one hand to his chin and stroked his beard slowly. Oh, that can’t be good. You might not know what it does yet, but you know a weapon when you see one… and that means you probably have your own version stashed away on that ship somewhere.

Inspection complete, his gaze returned to settle on Jack. The hand stroking the beard was slowly lowered and the man leaned forward slightly. Jack resisted the urge to stand a little straighter as the man continued to stare at him. A slight smile tugged at the corners of the man’s mouth as Jack refused to look away. Jack felt the hackles rising on the back of his neck. I’m not gonna like you, am I?

“Who are these people?” He asked the question without turning his gaze from Jack. Mahlia hesitated, looking first at Jack and then back at the man. Jack felt a moment of guilt for putting her on the spot but he was tired of waiting. This isn’t really going to be between you and her anyway, he thought.

“Colonel Jack O’Neill. And you are…?” The man’s smile vanished. So you claim to be sent by a god… I’m not impressed.

“Kedic. I have been sent by the Protector. It is my honor to escort the Chosen to Ipet-isut.”

“Really?” Jack took a few steps forward, ignoring Daniel’s shocked expression and desperate head shaking. “Now see… we gotta problem with that.”

“A problem?” Kedic’s tone was even.

“Yeah… a problem,” Jack retorted. “It turns out that not all of your Chosen wish to be escorted to Ipet-isut.”

“Do not listen to them, Honored One!” Brannan shouted, rising from his seat at the end of the table. “They are strangers who do not understand our ways. They wish to divide our people and turn us from our duty to Khonsu!” The musicians stopped playing and the room was silent.

Kedic turned to look at Mahlia. “And have they been successful in this endeavor?” Mahlia didn’t flinch. She met his scrutiny with a steady gaze of her own.

“There are those among us who have long had doubts. The Colonel and his people have helped us find the courage to express them openly.” As Jack watched her confront Kedic, the respect he felt for the girl was raised a notch or two.

“You, who have been named First, would deny your duty to your god?”

“Honored One, they have filled her head with lies!” Brannan interrupted. “They would have us believe that Khonsu is not a true god.”

Kedic turned to face SG-1 again, his expression betraying nothing of his thoughts. Several of his companions, however, had visibly paled. You should speak to your people, thought Jack. They don’t have the poker face that you do.

“And what proof have they offered to support their claims?”

“Just experience,” said Jack. “We’ve run into your type before. Actually, the people we’ve run into were much better at this whole god thing than you seem to be.”

“They have knowledge of the old gods,” said Gareth. “They have traveled through the gateway and they can read the ancient language.”

“The old gods abandoned you. Only Khonsu returned to guide your people. Why do you now question his existence? Does not Khonsu provide for your people?” Kedic spoke without anger.

“Um… yes. What exactly does Khonsu provide for them again?” Kedic’s attention turned to Daniel. I wondered how long you would be able to keep your mouth shut, Daniel. “Sorry… I’m Dr. Daniel Jackson. This is Major Samantha Carter,” he said, pointing to Carter. “And this is Teal’c.”

“You claim to have traveled through a ‘gateway’?” Kedic’s smile was back in place. “It is presumptuous of you to cast doubt on matters that are not your concern. If your tale is to be believed then this is not your world and you should not involve yourself.”

“It is you who are presumptuous to assume the role of a god,” rumbled Teal’c.

“I make no such claim,” replied Kedic. “I am merely his instrument. I have joyfully accepted my task which is to serve Khonsu in Ipet-isut. A task which all of the Chosen who have come before have welcomed.”

“You will find that we tend to ‘involve’ ourselves a lot,” interrupted Jack, casting a cautious glance at Teal’c. Does he look slightly more tense than usual? “And you never really answered the question. What do the Chosen get from Khonsu in return? Aside from being taken away from their homes….”

“Do you hear how they attempt to manipulate our thoughts by planting such fears?” Brannan argued. “Honored One, I welcome the opportunity to serve Khonsu. Not all of us have been tainted by the words of these strangers.”

“It is not fear they have planted in our minds, Brannan. It is understanding,” said Mahlia softly. Kedic regarded the girl impassively.

“Understanding?” he repeated. “What is this ‘understanding’ that you speak of?”

“That we might better serve our people by remaining here,” she answered. “We have accomplished many things at the temple. It is a place of learning. I have often felt regret that many of the Chosen who could contribute the most to improving our way of life have left us to serve in Ipet-isut.”

“And without Khonsu what would your people have accomplished? Your old gods abandoned you because you were unworthy! Nothing you have accomplished would have been possible without his benevolence.”

“See… there you go again,” said Jack. “I haven’t seen much evidence of Khonsu’s ‘benevolence’ since we arrived. They plant their own fields, build their own homes, care for their families, and they do a damn fine job of providing an education to anyone that wants one. The only thing your Khonsu seems to do for these people is to send someone once a year to haul off twelve of their brightest.”

“The Chosen have always felt honored to serve Khonsu.”

“I, too, once felt ‘honored’ to serve my god. The people of the Tau’ri helped me understand that the creature I served was not a true god. In our fight to defeat the Goa’uld we have visited many worlds. It has been my experience that talk of ‘honor’ and ‘service’ to a being of higher power is simply another method used to control the actions of people considered inferior. Your advanced technology and ability to twist the beliefs of the people of this world does not make you superior.”

“Perhaps your experience has clouded your judgment,” suggested Kedic. “You are to be commended for your obvious concern for the well-being of these people. Your fears, however, are unjustified. We are not familiar with these ‘Goa’uld’ as you call them.”

“Lucky you,” said Jack.

“I would be pleased to continue this discussion with you, but this is supposed to be a celebration and not a forum for debate. Perhaps you would be willing to continue our conversation at a more appropriate time… in private?”

You’re good, thought Jack. Offer your sympathy to Teal’c and pat us on the back because we show ‘concern’ for the Chosen. If I refuse to delay our discussion until later, we are the ones who will be blamed for ruining the celebration. Jack wondered if it might be worth it anyway, but there was the nagging problem of the Marine units who were still many hours away.

“I look forward to it,” he finally answered. Jack gestured to his team to take seats at a still unoccupied table.

They quickly removed their packs. Jack kept his P-90 slung over his shoulder and the others did the same. Teal’c kept his grip on his staff weapon. Mahlia signaled the musicians to resume playing as Jack and his team finally settled in their seats. Nobody spoke and Jack wondered if he shouldn’t have pressed the issue rather than go along with the delay. I think we pretty much killed the mood anyway.

The tension was broken by the arrival of the food. Men and women circulated the room, placing platters of fruits, breads, and pastries at each table. Quiet conversations began as the residents tried to pretend that everything was proceeding normally. Jack watched as Kedic waved off a question from the women sitting next to him. She frowned and looked in SG-1’s direction. Again, she leaned over to whisper something to Kedic and he shook his head. Kedic ignored her angry glare and turned, instead, to speak to Mahlia.

“Jack.” Daniel spoke softly. “I’m not sure if we accomplished anything just now.”
Jack shrugged. “At least they know where we stand,” he answered, reaching for one of the peach-like fruits that he enjoyed.

“Yes, they certainly do.” Jack heard the admonition in the archeologist’s tone and frowned.

“No games, Daniel. Do you want to help these people or not?”

“Of course, I just…”

“What? Thought there was a way we could diplomatically tell Kedic to go screw himself?” Jack bit into the piece of fruit he held and looked at Daniel. “By the way, Teal’c… nice speech.” In response, the jaffa simply inclined his head.

“There is a chance that he might listen to reason,” argued Daniel. Jack snorted and shook his head.

“You know, Daniel. You always amaze me with your ability to see the best in people but you’re wrong this time. Kedic isn’t interested in listening to your reasons. You’re not gonna win him over to our cause.”

“How do you know that for certain?”

“Call it a hunch,” replied Jack as he settled back in his chair to watch Kedic speak softly with Mahlia.

* * * * *

By midday, Jack had grown thoroughly disgusted with Kedic’s smooth smile and patient speeches. The morning meal had continued as planned with the ritual announcement that the Chosen were worthy of service to Khonsu. Jack had endured the naming of the new twelve who were intended to replace Mahlia’s group and had even managed to keep his mouth shut as they expressed their excitement about the achievement.

The promised continuation of their debate, however, was another matter entirely. Little had occurred during the conversation between Kedic and his people, the Chosen, and SG-1. Kedic had easily sorted out just who stood with whom among the Chosen. Brannan had taken every opportunity to suck up to the ‘Honored One’ and attack Mahlia’s arguments at every turn. Nothing had been resolved. Jack longed for the opportunity to get the man alone and have a private discussion with him.

It had been almost a relief when Kedic ended the session, explaining a need to oversee the transfer of foodstuffs and various other items to their ‘sky boat.’ Jack’s muttered comment about ‘if Ipet-isut is some sort of paradise then why do they need to carry back fruits and vegetables’ had been met with an easy explanation. ‘Why, to provide the Chosen with a sense of familiarity and the comforts of home during the voyage, of course.’ Of course… why else?

Mahlia had been called away to provide a last minute orientation for the newly named Chosen. Most of the others had scattered as well, leaving Jack and his team little to do but wait again. They had stayed in the Great Hall. With all the coming and going, it seemed to be the place at which everyone would eventually end up. Jack was restless, but relieved to have some additional time. At least it gives McConnell and his men time to get here before the final showdown. Lift-off was evidently scheduled for sometime tonight, after a final celebratory dinner in the Great Hall.

Jack leaned back, tilting his chair so that it balanced on two legs. He reached for a stray sprig of greenery that had slipped away from the table’s centerpiece and idly twirled it in his fingers. Daniel had his digital camera out, reviewing the shots he’d taken over the past few days. Occasionally, he’d jot a new entry in his notebook or make additions in the margins of earlier pages of scribblings. Jack sighed, letting the front legs of his chair drop to the ground. Methodically, he started stripping the leaves from the plant clipping he was holding, stacking them in a neat little pile on the table.

“Sir?” Carter sounded amused. “Maybe we should be doing something?”

Jack looked at her and wondered yet again just why he’d never been gifted with the patience to just sit and wait for things to happen. At least my team has learned to deal with that particular deficiency, he noted. He wasn’t really surprised that Carter had made the suggestion.

“Doing what?” he asked, his fingers toying with the now defoliated twig. “I’d like to get a closer look at that ship of theirs but I don’t think the middle of the day with a crowd of people loading supplies onto it is the best opportunity we’ll have to get it done.”

“Maybe we should try to find the Chosen,” suggested Daniel. “I’d like to talk to them again without Kedic hanging around.”

“Do you know where to find them, Daniel Jackson?” Teal’c—always the master of the obvious question, thought Jack.

“No, not really,” admitted Daniel.

“Actually,” said Carter slowly, “here comes one of them now.”

Jack looked around to see one of the Chosen heading towards their table. One of the hold-outs… Med-something… or Martin?

“Marlan,” said Daniel. Knew it started with an ‘m’, thought Jack. “Is something happening?”

“Mahlia wishes to speak with you immediately.”

“What for?” asked Jack, already rising to his feet.

“She is afraid,” replied the young man. “She wishes to understand your plan for this evening. There will be much confusion when we declare our refusal to travel to Ipet-isut.”

“You’ve decided to stay!” Daniel smiled at Marlan, his relief evident. “What about the others?”

“I do not know what decision they have reached,” replied the young man. “Please, Mahlia is waiting,” he said to Jack.

“Where is she?” Jack wondered if there was a more serious problem. If it’s that urgent, it can’t be good.

“In the clearing where the sky boat landed.”

“What is she doing there?” Daniel asked. “I thought she was meeting with the new Chosen.” Daniel began gathering his equipment and repacking his pack.

“That is finished. Kedic required her assistance with the loading. Mahlia requested that I bring you to the clearing.”

“Sir, at least we’ll get a closer look at that ship,” offered Carter, as she shouldered her own pack.

Jack nodded in agreement. I wonder if we will be able to sneak a peek at the inside of that thing. “Okay, Marlan,” he said, grabbing his gear. “Take us to her.”

Marlan nodded quickly. “Yes, of course.”

Jack gestured for his team to follow and they headed for the door.

* * * * *

“Marlan, I don’t see anyone,” said Daniel. “Are you sure Mahlia wanted to meet us over there?” They were walking along the lakeside path and had nearly reached the far side.

“Yes,” said the Chosen. “Mahlia was very insistent.”

“I do not see any indication that supplies are being loaded into the craft.”

“No, Teal’c,” said Jack. “I don’t either.” He stopped walking and turned to Marlan. “What’s going on?” he demanded.

“They were being loaded,” answered Marlan. “They must have finished.”

“So where is everybody?” Carter asked.

“Maybe they are inside the sky boat. Mahlia wouldn’t leave without speaking to you, Colonel. She asked me to bring you immediately. She would have waited.”

“Jack, maybe she’s in trouble.” Daniel sounded worried. Jack understood the feeling. Something’s not right.

“Marlan, what was happening when you left to find us?”

“Nothing!” Marlan shook his head. “Everything was fine. Mahlia was helping Kedic oversee the loading. She took me aside and asked me to bring you.”

“Kedic wasn’t acting any differently?” Jack watched the young man shake his head again. Marlan looked toward the clearing where the sky boat was situated and back at Jack.

“No, no… Kedic didn’t know I spoke with her. Mahlia wanted me get you without him knowing.”

“Jack, I’m worried for her,” said Daniel. “Kedic might have decided to get her under control before she could cause any more trouble.”

“I’m not sure he’d risk that,” said Jack. “He’s bound to know we’d be looking for her.” Jack’s mind raced as he considered possibilities. Mahlia could simply be inside that thing, having a nice friendly chat with Kedic. Or… Jack didn’t like what came after ‘or’ and frowned as Marlan stared at him. “Stay here,” he told him, “or go back to the Hall.”

“What?”

“Look, Marlan. We don’t know for sure what’s going on over there and there’s no need to risk you too. I don’t want to have to worry about you so you don’t go. It’s that simple.”

“But I…”

“You’re staying.” I’m not gonna argue with you kid, just stay outta my way, will ya’? “Teal’c, I want you and Daniel to hang back. Circle around to the tree line and stay out of sight. Carter, are you ready to get a look at some of their technology?”

“Yes, Sir,” she answered, adjusting her P-90 and thumbing the safety off. Daniel didn’t look thrilled but he didn’t complain, which suited Jack just fine at the moment.

“We’ll radio you with any news,” Jack told Teal’c. The jaffa simply nodded and motioned for Daniel to follow him. Marlan was still standing there gaping at them. “Go on… get.” Marlan opened his mouth to say something and Jack glared at him. The Chosen’s mouth snapped shut and he turned away and headed slowly back up the path. He hesitated and stopped, glancing back over his shoulder. Jack waved him on and watched as the boy finally turned and began walking again.

“Ready?” Carter asked. Jack saw Teal’c and Daniel reach the cover of the trees and nodded.

“Yeah,” he answered, tugging his cap on tighter and crimping the brim. “Let’s go.”
They rounded the curve in the path and ignored the off-shoot trail that led back to the Thrurran’s village. The ship was to the right of the lake in a large clearing. Jack scanned the area, wondering again why no one was around. Kedic can’t be that stupid, he thought. He’d have to know I’d be suspicious. Jack wondered if maybe he wasn’t simply overreacting. Maybe it really is just as simple as Marlan says it is. Still, I can’t take the chance of putting Mahlia at risk.

“Sir, the hatch is open.” Jack nodded; he’d just noticed it as well.

“Still can’t see anyone. Take it slow, Carter.” They moved off the path and crossed the grassy clearing. Jack took point and approached the open hatch slowly. A short metal ramp allowed access to the doorway. Jack eased his way up the ridged metal surface and cautiously checked the interior. It looks clear. He jerked his head for Carter to join him and moved slowly inside.

They were in a short corridor. The walls were smooth and metallic looking. The floor had a rough texture, almost like a non-slip coating that gave slightly under his booted feet. The soft glow of light came from inset panels in the ceiling overhead. They reached the end of the corridor and a closed door. Carter reached out and pressed a panel on the wall to the right and the door slid open. She grinned and Jack shook his head. I could’ve figured that one out, he thought.

The new room was larger and several other doors—some open, some not—led off to other parts of the ship. Still no one around? I guess the idea of posting a guard isn’t in the manual for Khonsu’s people. Carter shrugged, not vocalizing the question but Jack understood. Where to now? Jack pictured the ship as he’d seen it from the outside. The open hatch had been at the rear of the ship and he figured their best bet was to head for the command area. Not that I’m an expert on spaceships or anything but usually that’s up front somewhere. He pointed to an open doorway that led to a larger corridor. Carter nodded.

Jack moved ahead and stepped through the doorway. With Carter at his heels, they eased down corridor. Several doors were on the left and right but they were all closed. Ahead, another open hatch beckoned invitingly. Too invitingly, Jack thought. I’m not liking this at all.

Reaching the corridor’s end, he paused and listened carefully. Nothing. Carter looked as anxious as he felt. Well, this ain’t getting us anywhere, he decided. With a final warning glance at Carter, he stepped through into the room beyond.

“Shit!”

“Sir?”

Jack stepped farther into the room and knelt beside an unconscious Raynar. He heard Carter gasp as she saw the still forms of the Chosen. Reaching for the boy’s neck, he fished around for a pulse.

“He’s breathing,” he told Carter. “They are unconscious.” A quick check confirmed what he had suspected. “They aren’t all here,” he said. “It’s just Mahlia and the others who have been arguing to stay.” Mahlia, Gareth, Espeth, Raynar, that girl Ali-something and the other two who had been wavering. “Damn it!” I should have suspected. “Carter, get outta here! Move now!” That little bastard Marlan! He made his decision alright.

Carter was already moving toward the doorway but it was too late. Jack had time to see a triumphant Kedic standing there as the door slammed closed. Jack grabbed his radio and was thumbing the transmit button even as a hissing sound began and a cloud of gas began filling the room.

“Teal’c! It’s a trap! The Chosen are unconscious…” Jack began coughing as he breathed in the gas that was being pumped into the room. Carter was searching the walls for some method of opening the door. Damn, I should have known better! His vision blurred and the room seemed to sway. “Teal’c… do you read?” His own voice sounded fuzzy and he couldn’t seem to make his fingers work properly. He saw Carter drop to her knees and tried to take a step toward her but didn’t make it half a step before dropping to the floor himself. He struggled to rise to his feet but his limbs felt like dead weights. Carter slumped to the floor, her eyes closed.

“Carter?” Jack croaked—his voice barely a whisper. What the hell is this stuff? He barely had time to formulate the thought when his eyes slammed closed and everything went dark.