Choices and Consequences

By: Stacy L.

CATEGORY: Drama, Angst, Action/Adventure, Hurt/Comfort

WARNINGS: Adult Language, Violence

COMPLETED: February 27, 2002

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Jack O’Neill glanced once again at his young friend. Daniel looked tired but otherwise fine. He wondered what Daniel had gone through since his abduction by the Unas Chaka. Daniel had been lucky. Once again he used his linguistic skills and his heart to survive. He had appealed to the Unas. He had been shocked when he first saw the Unas with Daniel. He wasn’t sure if they would even find the man alive. Unas were known for their rather nasty tempers, but once again Daniel magically turned an enemy into a friend. He even received an open invitation from the Unas to return one day. Now that was just totally crazy! Daniel’s only injury from the attack was a scratch on his cheek. He had indeed been very lucky that the Unas hadn’t decided to make him lunch.

Jack looked at his teammate again as if to make sure that Daniel was in fact still with them. He had been so glad when they had finally located the man very much alive and well. Now he had to inform Daniel of what else had transpired while he was making nice with the Unas who had kidnapped him: Rothman. How the hell was he supposed to tell Daniel about Robert Rothman? Rothman was a complete geek, but he was Daniel’s friend. Daniel needed to hear of what had happened to Rothman earlier. How was he supposed to tell Daniel that his friend was now dead? How? He looked up at Sam and indicated that they should stop to take a break. She brought the small group to a halt and again looked at him as if silently telling him to give Daniel the bad news. He sighed deeply, catching the younger man’s attention. Daniel’s voice came to him from beside him, “Jack are you all right?”

Daniel looked at his friend noticing that the man remained oddly silent since they had left the cave. What was wrong with Jack? Why was he acting as if there was something wrong? He prodded gently, “Jack?” and watched as his older friend ran a hand back through his hair as he cleared his throat. Daniel waited patiently for Jack to speak.

Jack glanced at Daniel seeing the expectedness there. Daniel was waiting for an answer. He had to tell him. He swallowed hard and cleared his throat before he began. He once again watched his friend intently as he started, “Uh Daniel…there’s something… I have something that I need to tell you…”

“What is it, Jack?”

“It’s about Rothman…he, uh… Daniel…Rothman’s dead.”

Daniel remained silent for the longest time staring in shock towards his friend. Rothman was dead? When did it happen? How did it happen? How could Rothman be dead? He was just speaking with the man earlier, so what had happened? He struggled to accept the news as he asked, “What…what happened, Jack?”

“He…we had no choice, Daniel. We camped last night near this stream…he… The stream was full of Goa’uld larva, Daniel. Rothman…he was taken as a host…we had to…”

Before Jack could finish his comment Daniel’s eyes suddenly sparked bright white. Jack momentarily froze unprepared for the sudden attack coming from his friend. Daniel lunged at him grabbing him around the throat. Jack tried to react, but Daniel was just too fast and too strong for him. He felt his air passage being immediately cut off and swung at the man. Daniel responded immediately driving an upper cut punch into Jack’s solar plexus. Jack could only scream as he heard the sickening snap of a rib, or several ribs, being broken upon impact. He doubled over in pain. Daniel refused to give up the fight as he released his grip on Jack’s throat and swung at him again, this time catching Jack right across the jaw. Jack flew to the ground only managing to utter a grimace as his head smashed into a rock and unconsciousness flew up to greet him. The last thing he heard was the firing of a weapon and then nothing.

Daniel stared at Jack in shock as he told him that Rothman was now dead and that he had been inhabited by a Goa’uld. Halfway through Jack’s explanation blackness swamped him. Daniel had no idea what was happening as he felt another conscious mind invade his own. He couldn’t even scream or utter a warning. He could sense only anger and rage from the creature now controlling him. He felt his body moving of its own accord being controlled by another being. He heard Jack scream and felt ice-cold fear envelope him. Jack sounded hurt! He had to do something! But as he attempted to regain control of his own body he felt the angry being within him block his attempts. He struggled to regain control over himself and just when he succeeded searing, burning pain filled him. He cried out as a sharp pain entered his side driving the breath from him. The sudden pain forced him to momentarily lose his control, and the creature once again took over. He felt himself suddenly running, but the pain continued to keep him at bay.

Sam had told Jack earlier that he couldn’t keep the truth of Rothman’s fate away from Daniel. Daniel had a right to know. She silently urged him to talk with Daniel when he called a halt to their traveling. She watched the two men as Jack informed Daniel that Rothman was now dead. She was totally unprepared for Daniel’s sudden attack on the Colonel. She pulled her gun on instinct aiming it at Daniel. She felt herself freezing as she realized that she was now aiming her gun at her friend. She couldn’t shoot Daniel. What the hell was she thinking? But as Jack flew to the ground striking his head on a rock and Daniel moved in for another attack she reacted without thought. She pulled the trigger. She watched in horror as Daniel flew forward a blotch of red blood rapidly spreading across the back of his jacket. Holy shit, she had shot Daniel! She couldn’t move. She was frozen in terror at what she had done to him. Shit! She shot Daniel! Damn it! As her fear for both of the men’s safety filled her she found herself making her way rapidly to their sides. She approached Daniel, but as she reached for him the man suddenly darted. She wanted to call out to him, but Daniel was running extremely fast. She saw him disappear into the foliage of the surrounding forest.

Sam wanted so desperately to chase after Daniel knowing that wound was a serious wound. Daniel could die if he wasn’t helped soon. Oh God, what if he did die and she killed him? Oh shit! She stepped forward planning to go after her fleeing teammate, but as her eyes fell to the still Colonel she knew that she couldn’t leave him. His head was bleeding badly, and she knew for certain that he had at least a few broken ribs. Colonel O’Neill could die if she didn’t tend to him now. He struck his head hard enough to cause a concussion, and could possibly slip into a coma if she didn’t help him. Shit! What should she do? She had two teammates who were now seriously injured. What the hell was she supposed to do now? She glanced around her frantically, spotting her other teammate she quickly spoke “Teal’c…”

“Yes Major Carter?”

“I have to stay with the Colonel. He needs my help. I can’t leave him, Teal’c…”

Teal’c nodded his head in understanding as he continued, “Than I will pursue Daniel Jackson and bring him back for medical attention.”

“Teal’c…he… Why would he attack the Colonel?”

“He has been taken as a host.”

Sam paused as that thought solidified in her mind. Oh no…he was taken as a host? Poor Daniel. She knew how he felt about the Goa’uld and being inhabited by one was probably his absolute worst nightmare. They had to find him and free him. She asked, “What are we going to do?”

“I will find Daniel Jackson and bring him back. You must remain with O’Neill and tend to him.”

“Thank you Teal’c.”

Teal’c nodded his head once again before turning to pursue the young archaeologist who was now in the woods…somewhere. Teal’c only hoped that he would find Daniel Jackson before it was too late. He too had seen the result of Major Carter’s shooting. If Daniel weren’t found soon then he would most likely bleed to death in the forests of the planet. He doubted very much that the symbiote within Daniel would be able to heal him sufficiently. The symbiotes of this world were immature Goa’uld and primitive. Teal’c was unsure as to whether or not a Goa’uld was born with the innate ability to heal its host or if that ability was developed. He had to find Daniel as quickly as possible.

Sam watched Teal’c only a moment longer as the Jaffa took off in the direction that Daniel had just run. She sent several prayers up into the heavens that both Daniel and Jack would survive. She then turned her attention back on the Colonel. She cleared her mind so she could focus completely on O’Neill. She would be no good to him if she kept thinking of Daniel and what she had done to him.

Daniel was aware of one thing…he was running into the woods. He attempted to again regain control of his body but the symbiote within still maintained a very firm grip on him. He sensed the Goa’uld was very afraid and panicking. He knew that he had been injured. The realization came to him when the pain in his side refused to abate. He also knew that he was in trouble and if he didn’t regain control of his own body back soon the symbiote would carry them both too far away from the help that they both needed. He continued to fight with the creature inside of him hoping and praying that he would soon gain his complete control back. He had to regain his control. He had no choice in the matter. If he didn’t win this battle they’d both be dead soon. He could tell that he was still losing blood fast. His time was growing shorter and shorter by the minute.

Sam focused on Jack. She had to check the severity of the head injury. My God, there was so much blood. He could be suffering from any number of things. She quickly went over her medical training in her head ticking off possible results of such a trauma: concussion, clot compression, brain damage, skull fracture… Sam shivered as she thought of the list of possible outcomes. She hoped he simply had a concussion, but even with a concussion the Colonel could slip into a coma at any time. Shit! She quickly pulled out her med pack retrieving all the supplies she would need. She had to move him first and make him more comfortable. She did so then once she had him where she wanted him she set to work on cleaning the injury. She removed his hat then focused on the task at hand. She sighed in relief when she saw no blood oozing from Jack’s ears or nose and no liquid. Those were all signs of skull fractures and of a grave injury, but even though they were absent Colonel O’Neill was still in danger of death. She checked his pulse, checked his eyes and checked his neck. He seemed fine…at least at the moment but she knew just how serious a head injury could be and just how quickly things could go from bad to worse when such an injury occurs.

Sam continued to gently clean the gash on Jack’s temple wincing as the blood continued to flow freely from the open cut. She had to get the injury clean so she could look for any possible fractures in the depths of the wound. She couldn’t probe with her fingers or she’d expose him to possible infection, or worse penetrate his brain through the open fracture. Sam shuddered again as that thought entered her mind. She sighed in relief when the blood flow seemed to ebb. Thank goodness now she could examine the injury itself a bit closer. She didn’t see any fractures which was also a good sign…but, of course, hairline fractures were nearly impossible to see. She shook her head as more discouraging thoughts entered her mind. She had to remain positive, and she had to stay focused. Her mind briefly drifted to thoughts of Daniel out there in the woods with a serious gun shot wound all alone…damn it! She had to remain focused on Jack! She couldn’t allow her thoughts to wander off when she needed to focus on her task at hand! She silently chastised herself then once again focused on her patient.

Teal’c continued to search for Daniel. He was sure that Daniel couldn’t have gotten very far. He was practically bleeding to death. He had to be losing his strength rapidly. How could the man keep moving when he was so critically injured? He knew that a symbiote provided its host with extra strength. The symbiote would drive Daniel until he could go no further. The symbiote within his friend was still young and primitive. Its only focus right now would be survival and doing so in any way possible. It wouldn’t listen to Daniel no matter what he had to say. It was simply reacting to an instinct for survival…fleeing. He had to find Daniel Jackson or the man would not be alive for much longer. For the first time in a long time Teal’c was scared. He didn’t want to lose Daniel Jackson. The world needed more men like him. Daniel was too good a person to die in the woods on a strange planet alone. Daniel was too good a person to now be inhabited by a Goa’uld. He would have to find a way to free Daniel from the creature within him, but his first goal was to locate the young man before his time ran out.

Daniel continued to struggle with the creature inside him. He could tell that they were both growing weaker. He didn’t have much time. If he passed out here in these woods in the middle of nowhere he’d most likely die. No one would be able to find him when he was lost in woods that stretched on for miles and miles. Searching for him in these woods would be like trying to find a needle in a haystack…impossible. He shuddered as that thought entered his mind. He was aware that they were no longer running. Neither he nor the creature had the energy to continue running. They were now walking aimlessly. He knew that time was definitely not on his side and his strength would soon quickly diminish. As Daniel thought about that he stumbled falling painfully to his knees. Agony reverberated through his wound stealing his breath once more and distracting the symbiote within. When he sensed the creature’s inattentiveness he attempted to take over control yet again but felt the symbiote desperately reassert its control. The symbiote was extremely afraid. The symbiote also knew just how severely injured they were and knew that they were most likely going to die together out here in these woods. He could feel its fear and uncertainty as strongly as he felt its rage before they were both gravely injured. The creature didn’t know what to do and was becoming desperate. It knew that they were most likely not going to make it past today. It also knew that it wasn’t yet ready to die.

Sam continued to examine her unconscious CO. She continued to hope that Jack would soon awake. If he awoke then that would be at least a sign to her that he was still with her. She turned her attention away from the gash across his temple to focus on his rib cage. She pushed his shirt up over his chest then gently started to run her fingers across his rib cage in an effort to determine how many broken or fractured ribs he might now have. She could feel that his rib cage was tender on the left side. His broken ribs were in that area. She determined that he had several. She also listened intently to the sounds of his breathing, sighing in relief when it sounded normal. Thank God for small favors!

After providing all the possible medical aid she could she sat down beside Jack and watched him intently. Her mind wandered off to thoughts of Daniel also being in peril. What was she going to do now? She had a severely injured Colonel and a severely injured archaeologist. Teal’c went after Daniel, but would he get to the man on time or would he be too late? She cursed at herself again for shooting Daniel. She knew that she had no choice, but she could’ve shot him in another, less vital area. When she saw Jack fall and strike his head then Daniel preparing to attack him again she didn’t think. She simply fired her weapon and failed to think of the potential danger a wound to his side could cause. Damn it! Daniel might die. Why didn’t she just shoot him in the arm or something? Why did she shoot him near vital organs…shit, she even shot the man in the back. She could feel coldness entering her body as she thought of the potential dangers that could befall Daniel from that injury. My God, what if she blew a hole in his kidney or lungs…? Sam felt suddenly very cold and quickly wrapped her arms around her body in an effort to ward off the sudden chill. If Daniel died it would be all her fault…all her fault because she was the one who had shot him.

Teal’c grew more and more worried for his young friend when he saw no more signs of Daniel even passing through the area he was examining. Where could Daniel have gone? He had to locate the archaeologist. He had precious little time to waste. He knew enough about human physiology to know that Daniel had been critically injured. He hoped that the man hadn’t collapsed somewhere that would conceal him from view. He was sure that Daniel would most likely lose consciousness soon, if he hadn’t already, so he turned his search to the ground as well. He was determined to locate Daniel Jackson and save him before it was too late. Daniel would not die because he wasn’t about to allow that to happen. He would find Daniel and when he did he would get the man help as quickly as he was able.

As Daniel crashed to his knees once again he knew that he wasn’t getting back up. There was no way he could. He had very little strength left and could feel the symbiote within him beginning to die. He knew, he was certain, that the symbiote was dying. He hoped that he wouldn’t die right along with it. He was now completely in control of his body, but the Goa’uld had used up so much of his energy in its mad desperate dash through the woods that Daniel knew he wouldn’t be able to make it back to Sam’s location. He pushed himself back up determined to turn himself around, but he only rose an inch before finding himself once again on his knees. He cursed. Why did the symbiote not listen to him when he had warned it of the danger they were in? He attempted to rise yet again but was unsuccessful. He cried out as he jarred his bullet wound and clamped his hand tightly over the injury. His wound was still bleeding, and he knew that he was going to die. He made another attempt at rising but headed the opposite direction falling face first onto the ground and managing only enough energy to turn onto his right side. He continued to hold his right hand tightly over the wound praying that he wouldn’t die out here all alone. God but he was so weak. He was actually beginning to get a bit worried about his predicament. He knew his situation was not good at all. He could feel the creature’s despair, rage and fear as well. He knew that the symbiote would be dead within the hour. He only hoped that he wouldn’t follow in the creature’s footsteps. He laid there for the longest time just staring off in the distance trying to muster up enough energy to once again get to his feet, but as he made yet another attempt he collapsed and slipped into unconsciousness.

Sam once again examined Colonel O’Neill. She silently urged him to awake. What would she do if he didn’t awake? What if Jack never awoke again? She silently yelled at herself for thinking so negatively. She had to stay positive. She couldn’t allow herself to give up hope. She glanced towards the woods once again wondering if Teal’c had any success in locating their other missing teammate. She rapidly turned back when she heard Jack groaning. She jumped to her feet and went to him immediately kneeling by his side. She questioned, “Colonel? Colonel…? Are all right? Colonel?”

Jack could feel consciousness beginning to return. The first thing he became aware of was the intense headache he now seemed to have. He felt as if he had one of the worst hangovers in years. He tried to recall what exactly had occurred to give him such a pounding headache when he heard his second in command asking him if he was all right. He tried to focus on that voice mumbling, “What the hell happened?”

“Colonel.”

Sam smiled down at her CO extremely thankful to hear him speaking. She answered gently, “You fell and hit your head…you were helped a bit…”

“I was punched…I was…Daniel!” as Jack recalled his friend attacking him he also recalled hearing a gun firing just before losing total consciousness. He attempted to sit upright when his whole world did a sickly pitch before him. He nearly blacked out yet again very grateful that Carter was there to grab him before he took another nosedive. She urged him to lie back down and Jack did so very willingly. When the pain eased enough that he could think again he questioned, “Daniel? Where’s Daniel?”

“He’s…”

“I heard a gun fire did…Daniel, where is Daniel?”

“He’s not here, sir.”

“Where the hell is he then?”

“Sir, you need to relax. Don’t worry…”

“Don’t worry? I heard a gun firing and now you’re telling me to relax? Where is Daniel?”

“Colonel, you need to calm down…”

“Why aren’t you answering my question, Major? Where the hell is Daniel?”

“Teal’c is searching for him. He’s…”

“He attacked me…”

“Yes sir, he did but that wasn’t him…he was inhabited…by a Goa’uld sir. He attacked you. I knew that he’d kill you if I didn’t do something quickly so I… I shot him sir.”

“You shot him? You shot him with your gun? You…”

“Yes I did. I’m sorry. I…he would’ve killed you. I did what I felt was right. I…”

“How badly was he injured?”

Sam turned from her CO refusing to make eye contact and refusing to speak for the longest time. She swallowed hard, swallowing back the tears she so wanted to release. She had to tell Jack where Daniel was injured. She had to prepare him for the possibility that Daniel might…die. She had to tell him. She attempted to but once again hesitated. Jack interrupted her chaotic thoughts as he gently commented, “That bad, uh? Will he make it?”

“I…I don’t know, sir. He ran off into the woods. Teal’c is looking for him. The symbiote panicked and took off running. I…I don’t know…I…”

Sam cursed as a single tear glided down across her cheek. Shit, she wasn’t going to do this! Not here, not now and definitely NOT in front of Colonel O’Neill! Damn it, she would not cry! She swallowed hard as she felt the tightness in her throat that always seemed to surface when one was trying to hold back tears that wanted to come. She gasped as she felt Jack’s warm hand suddenly wrap around her own. He gave her hand a tender squeeze then said in a soft gentle voice, “You did the right thing, Major…”

“No I didn’t. I shot him Colonel. I shot Daniel. What kind of a person does that make me? I shot my friend! I shot a man who never did anything to anyone…I…”

“You had no choice. If you hadn’t acted then the Goa’uld within him would’ve killed me. Carter, you had no choice…”

She still couldn’t look Jack in the eyes, but she drew great comfort from his grip on her hand. She felt horrible for shooting Daniel. She was so afraid that he’d die and that Jack would die. What would she do if that ever happened? Could she handle that?

She looked up at Jack feeling those tears threatening to gush as she saw the pain etched across his face. Jack was struggling to remain conscious. She could tell that he was. She felt ice-cold fear once again slice at her…what if Jack had an epidural hematoma? He would die for sure. He was drowsy. She could see that he was. She questioned, “Colonel, how are you feeling?”

“Well, I have a huge headache…feel like I’ve been partying for the last week…and got flat out drunk…”

Sam paled as she recalled a severe headache as being one of the many symptoms of clot compression. What if the brain itself was still bleeding or swelling? What if the pressure from the swelling was causing his severe headache? He could be slipping into a coma…he could be dying. No, no…this can’t be happening. First Daniel and now Jack…they were both critical right now. She noticed that Jack was now staring intently at her a look of concern and worry crossing his facial features. Sam tried to smile reassuringly his way, but could tell that her smile was doing little to allay any of his fears or concerns at the moment.

Jack continued to watch his second in command trying his best to remain conscious a little bit longer. God did his head ever hurt badly. He knew that he’d only remain conscious a few minutes longer but struggled any way. Carter looked as if she were carrying the weight of the world upon her shoulders. She had made a choice, and now she was seeing the consequences of her actions. She knew what she had to do and she did so, but now she was having difficulty accepting that choice was necessary. He prayed that Daniel would be all right. The man had as many lives as a damned cat surely he’d survive a gunshot wound. Jack sent a silent prayer up to the heavens to ensure that Daniel would return to them alive. Teal’c went after him, and Teal’c would find him. He’d be all right. He had to be all right. He once again squeezed Carter’s hand in comfort then said, “You made the right choice, Carter. I’m sure Daniel knows that…”

“But it’s just so hard…I shot him with my weapon…I…”

“He’ll be fine, Carter. He has nine lives remember?”

Carter smiled shakily in response to that comment of Jack’s and found that she was feeling a little bit better. She glanced towards the woods in the direction Daniel had fled and hoped that he’d be all right. When she looked back at Jack his eyes were once again closed. She felt a sharp fear stabbing at her. She shakily questioned, “Colonel? Colonel O’Neill?”

He didn’t answer. He didn’t even act as if he had heard her. Sam swallowed hard as she reached shakily for the man’s neck to check his pulse. She sighed in relief when she found it. He was still alive but she needed to keep him awake, for if he fell asleep he might never awake again. She focused on waking Jack up once again. She started to shake him and call his name. The longer it took him to respond the more fearful she was becoming. Oh God, what if he had already slipped into a coma? Oh God no, this couldn’t be happening! Sam became desperate to wake Jack now nearly screaming his name to get him to respond to her. He had to wake up! He had to!

Teal’c continued to search for Daniel. He was determined not to give up his search. He had to find Daniel, and he wasn’t leaving these woods until he did so. Once he found Daniel then he’d have to get him out of the woods and get him some help as quickly as possible. The man had just been through quite an ordeal from his abduction, and now he was shot on top of it. Daniel was here somewhere. Teal’c just had to locate him.

Daniel slowly started awake. The first thing he became aware of was the intense burning ache in his side. He pressed gently on the wound and cried out in sudden pain clenching his eyes tightly shut as darkness threatened to overpower him. Oh God, did that wound ever hurt! He swallowed hard steeling himself against the anguish presently tearing through his side. He had to stay awake, and he had to assess his condition. He focused intently on his breathing sighing in relief when the pain in his side seemed to ebb a bit. When he felt confident enough that opening his eyes wouldn’t send his whole world pitching crazily before him he did so. He realized that he was still laying on his right side on the hard ground. Where was he? How far did the symbiote take him? As he thought of the symbiote he noticed that he couldn’t sense the being within. Was the creature now dead or just unconscious? He actually hoped for the first. He didn’t like the idea of becoming a Goa’uld host in the least. He glanced at his side noticing the crimson liquid still oozing through his fingers. My God, if he didn’t get help soon he’d bleed to death out here. How long had he been unconscious? He stared blankly at the blood continuing its slow trek down across his body soaking into the material of his jacket. He eased his hand off of his wound then eased the jacket open gently tugging on the shirt. He inhaled sharply as pain rapidly greeted the simple movement. As he eased the shirt up off of his injury and glanced at it he felt ill. He could see that the bullet had penetrated his back and exited out the front. Well at least he didn’t have a bullet still lodged in his body. He knew the wound was critical. He’d die if he didn’t find help soon. He gently covered his wound back up drawing the jacket once again over top of the wound and pressing his hand against it. He again inhaled sharply as the light pressure succeeded in jarring his wound. He had to get up. He couldn’t remain here. He attempted to rise crying out in anguish as the attempt succeeded in sending severe agony ripping through his wound. Oh shit, did that injury ever hurt! He fell back to the ground screaming as the pain threatened to send him back into the abyss of blackness. He couldn’t just give up. He had to get out of here. He could feel heat sparking within him and knew that his wound was now most likely infected. He had no choice but to force himself onward. He once again attempted to rise, but the pain lashed out at him sending him once more to the ground. He silently urged himself, “Come on Daniel. Come on. You have to move. Get up!”

He closed his eyes swallowing hard as he attempted to once again reign in the strength he would need to make a third attempt at rising. He jumped crying out when a hand touched his shoulder. He snapped his eyes open and stared into the face of the Unas Chaka. Where the hell did he come from? How on earth did the Unas find him? He watched Chaka wondering what the creature wanted. Chaka spoke one word, “Dan…yell…”

Daniel focused on the Unas all too aware that he was now breathing heavily from his attempts to rise. He licked his lips to moisten them then answered, “Yes…Chaka…I need help…help…help, Chaka…”

Chaka stared at him for the longest time not moving. Daniel swallowed hard forcing himself to sit upright. He gritted his teeth preparing not to voice his pain but failed miserably at the task. He closed his eyes forcing back the tears of agony that wanted to come forth. Shit but his side burned immensely! He struggled to pull in a ragged breath as the injury responded to his movements by sending excruciating pain stabbing throughout his side.

Chaka noticed Daniel’s obvious distress. Daniel didn’t look well. He examined Daniel quickly discovering why he was struggling so much to arise. He was injured and by the look on his friend’s face he wouldn’t be able to do so on his own so Chaka gently draped his arm around Daniel urging the man to rise.

As he felt an arm bracing his back Daniel opened his eyes focusing on the Unas now with him. As Chaka said his name again Daniel nodded. He was sure Chaka was urging him to rise. He attempted to do so finding that he was eternally grateful that the Unas was now helping him. He doubted he’d be able to rise on his own. His energy was all but depleted as he continued to lose the precious blood that he so desperately needed to continue living. He was already feeling dizzy and was sure that was due to losing so much blood. Once he was to his feet he nodded at Chaka saying, “Thank you…”

Chaka once again uttered his name then moved to loop his other arm under Daniel’s knees. Daniel shook his head no but Chaka refused to listen and in one quick move had Daniel cradled in his arms with one arm under his knees and the other across his shoulders supporting his back and neck. He tried to argue with Chaka but felt his strength quickly diminishing. He muttered, “Chaka…my friends…can you…I need you to find my friends…my…”

He groaned as he felt lightheadedness suddenly sweep over him. He licked his lips and once again focused on Chaka making yet another attempt at communicating to the Unas, but blackness demanded his return. He fought against the blackness but was rapidly losing the battle. He just wanted to sleep, but he also knew the dangers of drifting asleep in his present state. He needed help or death would find him in the next few hours. He propped his head against Chaka’s chest no longer able to resist the pull of the darkness that was once again descending upon him.

Chaka focused on Daniel’s face. He knew that his friend was in danger. He was injured and needed aid. Chaka wondered how his friend became injured since his departure. He decided to return to the cave and tend to Daniel there. Once he was assured that Daniel was safe then he would search out the others who came for him. He focused intently on his friend who was now fast asleep in his arms. He knew just by looking at Daniel’s face that his friend was slipping away. He had to get moving. With his mind made up, Chaka turned in the direction of home carrying his newly acquired friend in his arms. He hoped that the ones who came for Daniel were not the same ones who had injured him.

Sam continued to call to Jack becoming increasingly more fearful the longer he remained unresponsive. Oh God, she shouldn’t have left him go back to sleep. Damn it, she knew better! What was she thinking? How could she have forgotten something like that? She knew the answer already. Her focus was split in two different directions. She was worrying and fearful for both Jack and Daniel. She was struggling just to maintain her focus. She called his name once again and cried out in relief when the man groaned. Oh thank God! He was awaking. Sam questioned, “Colonel…”

“Carter, what do you want now?”

“Sir, you have to stay awake. You can’t rest…”

“What?”

“You have to stay awake. You took a pretty nasty blow to the head. Colonel, you need to stay with me here.”

Jack opened his eyes focusing on the worried face of Carter. He could see her inner turmoil and struggle. Then he remembered why she seemed so fearful and so concerned…Daniel and him. They were both injured. He wondered if Teal’c had any luck locating Daniel yet. He questioned, “Daniel?”

“No sir. Teal’c still hasn’t returned. Jack, can you sit up for me?”

“Jack?”

“I’m sorry, Colonel.”

“No, no…it’s okay. Yeah, I think I may be able to sit up…just need some help here.”

Sam immediately offered him the aid he needed. She then asked, “Can you stand up?”

“Oh…sure Carter…sure, no problem.”

He attempted to do so on his own, but didn’t make it very far. He glanced at her then said, “Um well…a little help would be nice.”

Sam grinned at him responding, “Sure sir.”

She managed to get Jack to his feet and over to a tree then helped him to sit down with his back against it. He leaned back closing his eyes as the pain in his head throbbed intensely. He heard Carter’s concerned voice question, “Sir, how are you feeling?”

“Still like I have a major hang over…”

“How are the ribs?”

“They don’t hurt as much as my head.”

“Good. You have to stay awake…”

Jack opened his eyes watching Carter intensely then he casually questioned, “So what would you like to talk about…and please none of that scientific mumbo jumbo or I will fall back to sleep.”

Sam rolled her eyes in response to that comment and as Jack grinned at her she returned the grin. She answered, “Oh, I don’t know. We could discuss the weather.”

“Yeah, the weather. I’m sure I’ll be with you for oh about the next thirty seconds.”

“Well, do you have a better idea?”

“Hmm…let’s see…what is your worst fear?”

As Jack glanced at Carter he realized that was definitely not a good question to ask her. Damn, now that was stupid! Whatever possessed him to ask that question? He of course knew the answer. The knock to his head successfully managed to confuse him just a bit. He quickly apologized. Sam smiled then said, “That’s all right, Colonel.”

He watched her noticing that she was still very fearful. She continually scanned the woods then scanned him. She was determined to keep an eye out for Daniel and Teal’c while also keeping an eye on him. He commented, “Carter, he’ll be fine. Our Daniel is tough. He has nine lives. Trust me…”

Trust him…God how she wanted to, but right now her mind was plagued with guilt and fear. There was no way she could ignore the facts: she had shot Daniel. She injured him critically. The truth of the matter was that Daniel could die, and if he didn’t soon get aid…he would die. She knew that he would. He couldn’t live long out there running. He was probably even now bleeding to death, and if she hit a kidney or lung with that bullet… She once again wrapped her arms around her body as she trembled. She cast a worried glance Jack’s way as she asked, “But what if he isn’t? What if he dies because of me? I pulled the trigger. I injured him…I CRITICALLY injured him. What if Daniel dies because I shot him? I would be a murderer. What if I murdered my own friend in cold blood? What would I do?”

Jack watched her intently. He knew exactly what she was going through. He had been in similar situations. In fact, there was even one mission back in his old Special Ops days where he had to actually kill one of his close friends. His friend had been working for the other side. He was passing US military secrets to their enemies. Jack was the one sent to retrieve him and bring him back to the United States for trial. He ended up having to shoot the man in the end. He shuddered as he remembered that time all too clearly. He glanced up at Carter when her voice came to him, “Sir, are you all right?”

He cleared his throat softening his voice as he said, “You would carry on with your life. Try your best to keep on living. Daniel wouldn’t want you to give up on life if he died. He would wish you only the best, and he would forgive you. Hell, he probably already forgave you. Sam you had a choice to make, a very hard choice. You could’ve just left him kill me. You had to make a choice, and you had to make it in only a few scant seconds. It was a judgment call. You knew what you had to do and you did it…”

“But if Daniel dies…”

“We need to stay positive. He’s out there in those woods critically injured. Teal’c is searching for him all we can do is stay here and wait. I can’t travel with you in my present condition and you…I know you won’t leave me. You know what could happen to both of us. You have to keep your faith. You have to believe that Daniel will be all right and if he isn’t…”

Sam glanced up at Jack once again. She could see that he was very afraid for their young teammate, as well. Daniel meant a lot to both of them and if they were to lose him…they had lost Daniel once before and all three of them struggled to deal with his death. They had been shocked to discover that their friend was still alive and that their minds were simply programmed to believe that they had witnessed Daniel burning to death. Sam didn’t want to ever have to relive his or anyone else’s death again. It was just too painful. She had lost so many people in her lifetime that meant something to her…hell they all lost so many important people in their lives. They needed one another. The members of SG-1 relied heavily on one another. They were more than just a team; they were a family. If something happened to one member then all of them were affected. She was jolted out of her reverie as Jack squeezed her shoulder in a comforting gesture. She once again focused on him finding that she was glad to have him with her at a time like this.

Jack watched her intently. He knew that she was worrying herself sick over him and over Daniel. She had two badly injured team members to keep her mind thoroughly occupied for a while. He continued to struggle to remain alert. He didn’t want her to be worrying over him and Daniel. She didn’t need the extra burden. He felt his head drifting back and attempted to jerk it upright, but his head refused to follow his command. He felt his eyelids drifting shut and his hand sliding off of Carter’s shoulder.

Sam focused intently on Jack when she felt his hand slip off of her shoulder. She noticed that his eyes were once again closed. Oh God no! She turned yelling, “Colonel? Colonel?”

She received no response. She could feel her fear tripling. Shit, she had to get him awake again! Damn it! She pressed her hand against his left cheek then said, “Jack…Jack wake up damn it! Wake up!”

“Wha…what Carter, what is it…?”

“Don’t do that to me again, sir! My God, I thought you… Don’t do that ever again! You need to stay awake. Come on we need to think of some way to keep you conscious.”

Jack grinned evilly as he said, “I could think of a few ways to…”

“I’m serious Colonel…”

“I know…I’m sorry…but the thought has crossed my mind on several…”

“Colonel, I think we need to change the topic…Tell me about Sara.”

“Sara? You want to know about Sara? Why?”

“I’m just curious. You never told me much about her even after that incident in the hospital. What is she like? Is she a nice person? How did you two fall in love?”

“Sara…you want to talk about my ex-wife…what has Daniel told you?”

“Nothing…all I know is that you lost Charlie then you lost her.”

He looked at her in surprise then questioned, “That’s all? Daniel never told you about her?”

“Well no. Why would he? What does he know about her that I don’t know?”

Jack looked at Carter intently and she knew by that expression that Daniel Jackson knew a hell of a lot more about their Colonel then she thought he did. She continued, “If you don’t want to talk about her I understand…how about Daniel then? Tell me how you and Daniel met.”

Jack grinned at that request. He looked at Sam then replied, “How Daniel and I met? Well, that’s an easier topic of discussion. We met at the SGC. I knew nothing about the man when we first met.”

“What was your first impression of him?”

“Geek…a definite geek.”

Sam laughed as Jack said that. She noticed his head nodding forward again but this time he jerked his head upright. She became even more frightened for him. She could tell that Jack was struggling to remain alert. She had to keep him talking about anything. She had to keep him conscious. If he didn’t remain alert then he just might slip into a coma. She had to keep him talking to keep him awake.

Teal’c continued to search for Daniel growing more and more uncertain as he went. What if he didn’t find Daniel and the man ended up dying in these woods? One of his greatest fears was dying alone, and he didn’t want any of his friends to suffer such a grim fate. He hated the thought of dying alone. He didn’t fear much but that was definitely close to the top of his list. He’d never openly admit that to anyone though. He had to find his friend before time ran out. Through the years Teal’c has grown closer and closer to his Tau’ri friends. He wouldn’t give them up for any reason. The day that he turned against his god to help aid Jack O’Neill was the day his life changed forever and the day that his life changed for the better. Through the years he grew more and more attached to each member of SG-1. They were his family now. He vowed to protect them always. He wasn’t about to allow any harm to come to them if he were able to prevent it. He loved each and every member of SG-1 deeply, but he wasn’t about to openly admit such feelings. He was trained to be a warrior without a conscience. He was trained to suppress all emotions. The training was so much a part of him and so ingrained in him that he rarely showed much emotion to anyone. The members of SG-1 knew him better than anyone else, and they could read him and his thoughts like a book. He didn’t need to show emotion around them because they some how understood him. They had an innate instinct when it came to reading one another’s emotions and feelings. They knew each other so well. They were more than a team; they were a family and Teal’c was very glad to be a part of that family. He wouldn’t give them up for any reason. His Tau’ri friends just meant too much to him.

Chaka entered his home carrying his friend over to a corner of the room where he gently laid him down. He checked Daniel’s condition noticing that his condition deteriorated some. He immediately found his sister and ordered her to go collect medicines for his friend. She returned shortly thereafter entering his home noticing that her brother sat cross-legged on the floor staring down at a lone figure. She knew that the one Chaka brought with him was the one he had defended from death. She was determined to help him in any way she could. She approached Chaka then set to work on his friend. She noticed that he was weak and losing his life force rapidly. She quickly mixed some herbs together then worked on cleansing his injury and bandaging it. Once she was done she looked back at her brother and told him she could do no more. He thanked her for her help and remained keeping a silent vigil over Daniel.

Daniel started to awake once again. He struggled to open his eyes but had some difficulty in doing so. He tried to recall where he was and what had happened. As he attempted to move he cried out feeling the pain returning in his side rapidly. He reached for his injury when a hand suddenly wrapped gently around his wrist. He noticed that the hand felt rough and odd. He rapidly opened his eyes as he realized that hand wasn’t human. When he glanced at the one with him he sighed in relief seeing Chaka above him. He suddenly remembered that Chaka had found him in the woods and carried him somewhere. Daniel glanced around realizing that he was in what appeared to be some kind of shelter. As the throbbing in his wound continued to increase he again reached for his injury when Chaka tightened his grip slightly and whispered, “Ka…ka…”

Daniel focused on him then responded, “Ka…no…okay. I understand.”

He continued to watch the Unas then replied, “Thank you…thank you.”

He attempted to shift wincing as the simple movement sent more agony ricocheting throughout his body. The burning in his side was now even more intense than before and he noticed that he was extremely warm. As he closed his eyes Daniel realized that he had a fever. Shit, a fever could only mean one thing: his wound was infected. He coughed crying out as doing so made his side ache all the more. He clenched his eyes tightly shut waiting for the pain in his side to ease up some. When he felt he could once again focus he again opened his eyes looking at Chaka as he spoke, “Water…Chaka. I need water… Water…”

Chaka seemed to understand what Daniel was telling him because he released Daniel’s wrist then turned lifting up what appeared to be some form of a cup. He then pressed his right hand against Daniel’s shoulder urging him to try to sit up. Daniel attempted to do as Chaka wanted but anguish tore through him at the simple movement. He rose only a few scant inches before once again falling. His attempt to rise only succeeded in driving more agony to his injury causing him to again reach for his throbbing side. Chaka succeeded in stopping him from touching his wound as he quickly ordered, “KA!”

Daniel focused on his newly acquired friend nodding to indicate that he understood the order. He then focused on once again attempting to rise. Chaka helped him to raise enough to be able to drink then held the cup to Daniel’s lips and urged him to do so. Daniel gratefully accepted the liquid he was offered. Once he was done drinking Chaka helped him to lie back down. He closed his eyes as he felt the fever within spiking even higher and within only a few short minutes Daniel was once again deep asleep.

Chaka continued to watch his friend noticing how he struggled to sit up and to drink. He knew that his friend needed more help then he could provide him with so he determined that he had to locate the ones who had accompanied Daniel when he left here originally. He called his sister over and told her to keep watch over Daniel. She quickly took his place sitting down beside her brother’s friend to guard and watch over him.

Chaka entered the woods heading back in the direction where he had found Daniel only a short time ago. He could only hope that those who were with Daniel were now searching for him and had realized that he was in the woods. He moved at a very rapid pace making good time as he did so. When he saw one of those who were with Daniel earlier he approached. Then indicated that he should follow.

Teal’c continued searching for Daniel knowing that if he couldn’t locate his friend that Daniel would surely die. He had to find Daniel soon or he would be of no help at all. As he continued in his search he heard a noise in the distance. He hoped that noise was Daniel attempting to make his way somewhere. He stopped and waited patiently to see what the source of those sounds was. He cocked his head to the left in confusion when he saw a Unas step before him. He recognized him as being the one who had abducted Daniel. The Unas approached then made several hand gestures. Was he trying to tell him to follow? He was unsure of what the Unas expected from him until Chaka reached out and gently tugged on his arm. Teal’c nodded then followed Chaka to his home.

Sam continued to watch Jack and observe him for any possible changes. They had both fallen silent, and she noticed that Jack was once again falling prey to the lure of unconsciousness. She needed to get his full and undivided attention and she needed to get him on a topic that he could focus on. She spoke up in an effort to draw his attention to her yet again, “Colonel, tell me about Charlie.”

“What? What Carter? I’m sorry.”

Jack shook his head to clear it wincing as pain answered his sudden action. He felt lightheaded but did his best to ignore that as well. He focused intently on Carter’s face as she asked, “Charlie… Tell me about him.”

“Sam…”

“I’m sorry is that getting too personal?”

“No…no that’s all right I just…”

“I understand.”

Once again they both fell into complete silence that seemed to stretch on forever Jack was the first to break it, “You know I still hold myself totally responsible for his death?”

“What?”

“Oh yeah…when I went on that first mission to Abydos I was determined to…end my life. Daniel knew it and tried his damnedest to stop me. He was determined to get through to me. He even went so far as to throw himself in front of me when Ra intended to kill me. He died for me on Abydos, Carter. He actually died…”

“WHAT? I never knew that…”

“Ra had a sarcophagus and brought him back to life. I couldn’t believe the man would go as far as to sacrifice himself to save me. The kid was crazy… He reminds me so much of my son, you know. Charlie…Charlie was so innocent and too young to die…Daniel…Daniel’s a lot like him. It’s scary…he’s matured and grown a lot since that first trip to Abydos but…”

Jack felt his eyes drifting shut and his head once again drop back against the tree as blackness threatened to swallow him up. Sam quickly drew his attention back as she demanded, “Stay with me Colonel. Damn you stay with me! Tell me about Abydos, tell me about Daniel, tell me about your son…God, please just tell me about something but don’t you dare pass out on me again! Do you hear me, Jack! Don’t you dare leave me! JACK!”

Jack jerked his head up once again crying out in agony as the pain sliced at him. He leaned forward pressing his hand to his head muttering, “Shit, I have got to stop doing that!”

“Colonel? Oh thank God! Don’t you dare do that to me again! Don’t scare me like that!”

“Major, you need a vacation…”

“What I need is for you and Daniel to get well. What I need is for both of you to survive and make it back to Earth in one piece. I’ll be damned if I’m going to return to Earth with a dead colonel or a dead archaeologist so you and Daniel had better be doing your damnedest to stay alive! Do you hear me, Jack? Do you?”

“Yes ma’me.”

Despite the graveness of their situation Jack found himself smirking mischievously at Carter. He knew how much of a danger he was in and after her obvious avoidance about where Daniel was shot he also knew that Daniel was in a lot of trouble. He once again found himself praying that he and Daniel would both live long enough to successfully make it off of the planet in one piece and still be breathing. He continued to observe his second in command noting just how much of a toll this whole situation was having on her. She was obviously putting herself through an emotional ringer over shooting Daniel and over his own present condition. Jack wished he could help her out more than he was but his head was pounding constantly and urging him to fall into that ever-encroaching darkness that was hovering just below the surface of his mind luring him to follow.

Teal’c continued to follow the Unas a bit surprised at just how fast the creature could traverse through the woods. He recognized the cave immediately where Chaka paused to once again urge him on. He followed the Unas into the cave recalling events from only a few scant hours earlier. He hoped that in following Chaka he had made the right decision. He was sure that Chaka was leading him to his missing friend. He knew the risks should his judgment call be incorrect. If he were wrong then Daniel Jackson would surely die within the next few hours. He didn’t even want to think of the possible consequences that his rash decision could potentially have on his friend.

Chaka led Teal’c deeper and deeper into the cave towards his home and towards his friend. He hoped that the one following him would actually be able to help Daniel. Chaka was positive that Daniel’s life force was rapidly leaving his body. He could think of no other way to help Daniel so he continued to guide Daniel’s friend to him. He glanced back once again to assure that Daniel’s friend was still with him. Once to his home he signaled for Teal’c to enter and quickly approached his sister. She looked up at her brother and reported that his friend’s condition was worsening. Chaka kneeled beside Daniel gently pressing his hand to his face. He hoped that he wasn’t too late to save Daniel.

Daniel fought his way to consciousness as he felt a hand pressing against his left cheek. He was extremely hot but didn’t understand why. Why was he so hot? Did someone turn the heat up in this place or what? As consciousness came to him he jerked awake crying out in anguish as the wound immediately punished him for such a sudden move. Shit, the wound…he had forgotten. He was wounded, shot by a gun and he was so hot because he was feverish. His wound was infected. He was with Chaka…in Chaka’s home. He opened his eyes to look into the face of Chaka. Without thought he once again reached for his injured side. Chaka reacted immediately gently grabbing onto his wrist as he calmly ordered, “Ka…ka Dan…yell. Ka…”

Daniel nodded then replied, “Ka…no…”

As another voice filled the room Daniel looked beyond Chaka. He managed a weak smile as he saw Teal’c. Teal’c interrupted, “It is very good to see you, Daniel Jackson. I have been searching for you. We must get you to Major Carter before it is too late.”

“Teal’c…good to see you too.”

“What of the symbiote within?”

“I think it’s dead…either dead or unconscious. After I collapsed in the woods I no longer felt its presence. I’m not exactly sure what that means.”

“I cannot sense any Goa’uld within you, my friend.”

“But these Goa’uld have no naquadah within them, Teal’c. You may not be able to sense their presence. Doctor Fraiser will have to do an X-ray…that is if I…live that long…”

Daniel swallowed hard closing his eyes yet again as he could feel the life draining fever continuing to burn ever hotter within. He licked his lips noticing just how dry they were. God but he was so thirsty. He knew that a fever could dehydrate a person quickly…pair a fever with blood loss and you were faced with a definite case of dehydration. He inhaled sharply as he felt Chaka once again urging him to rise into a sitting position. He gritted his teeth as the pain in his side ignited in response to the simple move, but he allowed Chaka to help him rise despite the anguish the movement was causing. He was very glad that Chaka was supporting him, for he feared that if he were unaided he wouldn’t even be able to sit upright on his own. He was just too weak and feverish. All of his strength was going into fighting off the infection within and combating the fever now holding him captive. He nearly sighed out loud when he felt the cup of liquid once again being pressed to his lips. He drank from the cup thirstily not really noticing the bitter taste of the concoction. He was sure that there was some type of an herb or something brewed into the liquid to give it that bitter taste, but he didn’t care. He was so damned thirsty that he’d drink almost anything that he was given.

Teal’c continued to observe his friend. He could see the fever was burning within Daniel and feared that could only mean one thing: Daniel’s wound was now infected. He noticed that Daniel wasn’t even able to sit up on his own. The fever and the injury already were zapping what little reserves of strength the man had yet remaining. Obviously the larval Goa’uld that had entered his friend didn’t heal him, for Daniel would not be so close to death if it had. He once again wondered if a symbiote developed its ability to heal itself and its host or if that ability was acquired later in their evolution. He knew that he had to do something. If Daniel didn’t get the medical attention he needed then he would surely not live much longer. He knew that whatever Chaka and his race has done so far for Daniel probably helped to keep death at bay, but for how long? How much longer would Daniel live before the infection killed him or the fever caused by the infection? How much longer could he survive without getting the proper medical attention that he so desperately needed? Teal’c glanced up at his friend as the man’s voice broke into his thoughts, “Where are Sam and Jack? Why didn’t they…?”

Teal’c looked at his friend for the longest time. Could Daniel be completely unaware of why he had been injured in the first place? Did Daniel really not know what had happened to O’Neill before his sudden mad dash into the woods? He continued to silently observe his friend and by the blank expression crossing the man’s face he was positive Daniel was unaware that he had even attacked O’Neill.

Daniel tensed as Teal’c fell completely silent looking at him with a dark intensity that spoke volumes. He had a sudden uneasy feeling that something wasn’t right. He slipped his tongue out between his lips to once again moisten them and sighed when Chaka once again offered him liquid. He nodded his head yes and allowed Chaka to help him drink. He willingly drank the bitter tasting liquid knowing that he was in desperate need of fluids to survive. Chaka removed the cup after Daniel drank for a time then Daniel once again focused solely on Teal’c questioning, “Teal’c, what happened to them?”

Teal’c lowered his voice already very much aware of the physical condition his friend was now in. He hoped that by telling Daniel of what had occurred prior to his dash into the woods it wouldn’t impede his healing at all. He also knew that Daniel had a right to know what he had done while under the influence of the Goa’uld.

Daniel watched Teal’c intently feeling the uneasiness continue to spread throughout him. Something had happened when he was under the influence of the Goa’uld. Something very bad had happened. Daniel spoke barely above a whisper as he questioned, “What did I do, Teal’c? What happened while it was in control of me?”

“Major Carter is with O’Neill…”

“Teal’c just tell me what I did…please.”

“You attacked O’Neill. He fell and struck his head on a rock…”

Teal’c watched Daniel intently knowing that the news of what had occurred while the larva was in control would cause Daniel much stress. His young friend fell completely silent inhaling shakily as he downcast his eyes. He then spoke even softer then before, “God, is he all right? How badly did I hurt him?”

“Daniel Jackson this is not your fault. You could not have known that the larva within you would harm Colonel O’Neill. You cannot blame yourself for actions that you did not do.”

“The hell I can’t! It used me…it used my body to hurt Jack! How the hell can I not feel responsible for that?”

Daniel started coughing immediately after speaking. He clenched his eyes tightly shut once again reaching for his injury to comfort it. He felt the gentle grip once again being applied to his wrist and knew that Chaka was holding his arm. He cursed but yielded dropping his hand back to his side. Chaka continued to maintain his gentle hold almost as if he feared that Daniel would attempt to touch his wound. He heard Chaka say his name and glanced up at him. Once again Chaka was urging him to drink the bitter liquid he had to offer. Daniel found that he was extremely grateful that Chaka even had liquid here to sustain him. He drank so much already, but he was just so damned thirsty. He nodded allowing the Unas to press the glass to his lips and aid him. Once Chaka removed the glass Daniel thanked him then focused on Teal’c as he questioned, “Will Jack die? How badly did I harm him?”

“He was unconscious when I left to pursue you. Major Carter will help him Daniel. You need to focus on yourself and not worry about O’Neill.”

Daniel closed his eyes as exhaustion threatened to pull him under yet again. God but he was so damned tired and so damned weak. He hated being this weak! He was also now burning with fever. He was so hot that he struggled to breath occasionally. God, could someone with a fever possibly suffocate as a result? He silently chastised himself for thinking such foolish things. He glanced up at Teal’c as he continued, “You know I can’t do that, Teal’c. Jack is badly hurt and it’s all my fault. I can’t just…”

“Daniel Jackson you cannot change what has already happened. You are not the one who attacked him. You are not responsible for causing O’Neill pain.”

“I hurt him Teal’c…me…no one else…me…”

Daniel paused in the middle of his comment as sudden dizziness swamped him. He clenched his eyes tightly shut sensing that he was about to pass out again. The fever was being very persistent and attempting to pull him back into its greedy clutches yet again. The fever was threatening to consume him in its own burning inferno. He tried to focus on Teal’c but noticed the Jaffa swaying before him. He immediately clenched his eyes back shut in response to seeing that wavering image. Shit! He was going to black out again! Shit! He couldn’t do this! He had to stay awake! He had to get to Jack…he had to…

Daniel attempted to rise to his feet when he felt two hands gently holding him in place. He opened his eyes trying to focus on whoever was holding him. He saw Chaka and realized that he was now lying down on the floor. When the hell did Chaka guide him back to the floor? Shit, he couldn’t even seem to focus on himself let alone on anyone else in the room. He shook his head in an attempt to clear his thoughts then noticed Chaka was above him as was Teal’c. They both looked extremely worried about him. He quickly pushed his own safety and welfare aside as he continued, “I have to get to him Teal’c…we have to…”

“Daniel Jackson you must rest. You are in need of healing. You will not do yourself any good if you continue to fight against your body’s needs. You must focus on…”

“How the hell can I focus on myself when I know that Jack is out there possibly dying because of me? I can’t do that, Teal’c! If he dies…if…I can’t handle that! I just can’t! Don’t ask me to accept that I can do nothing for him!”

“Major Carter is with O’Neill. He will be fine.”

“You don’t know that. You can’t know that for sure…”

Daniel cursed aloud as his vision swam before him. Oh God, he was going to pass out. He tried to fight the constant tug of unconsciousness but was failing miserably at the task. He closed his eyes trying to draw some inner strength to the forefront to keep him alert, but as he opened his eyes and the room started to slide out of focus he knew he was fighting a losing battle. He managed to mutter Teal’c’s name before that possessive darkness dragged him under and back into the fiery depths of his fever.

Teal’c knew that Daniel would only be able to remain alert for a few moments longer. His friend was consumed with fever. The fever was sucking the life out of him making him weaker and unable to remain awake. As he watched Daniel’s eyes slide shut once again he felt cold fear encircle his heart. What if Daniel didn’t have those few hours to hang on? This whole time Teal’c has been sure that Daniel had several hours left before death would visit him. What if he was wrong and the young archaeologist had more internal damage then he could see? If Daniel died… Teal’c shivered. He couldn’t even imagine Daniel dying, but as he focused on his young friend lying on the floor completely unconscious with sweat running off his face from a high fever he sensed the possibility. Teal’c refused to give up on Daniel. Daniel would be fine. The man wouldn’t accept defeat easily. He always managed to hold on, and he always managed to remain strong. Daniel would be fine. He just needed a little aid to guide him to the track of healing. As Daniel groaned in his unconsciousness Teal’c knew he had to act. He had to get Daniel back to the Stargate. The Unas could do no more for him. It was up to him to get Daniel to the Stargate so that he would live. Without thought Teal’c dropped down beside his friend and quickly scooped the man up into his arms.

Chaka watched the exchange between Daniel and his friend sure that he did the right thing in bringing him here. As Daniel once again succumbed to rest Chaka became even more worried for him. He was getting worse instead of better. He was supposed to be improving, but he didn’t seem to be. He glanced sadly from Daniel to his friend then back to Daniel once more. He watched Daniel’s friend kneel beside him then lift him into his arms. He approached saying, “Ka…”

Teal’c focused on the Unas then said, “I must take Daniel Jackson back home. He will not survive if I do not. Thank you for caring for my friend.”

Chaka nodded then gently pressed his hand against Daniel’s face muttering words that Teal’c could only assume were of comfort and encouragement. It was very obvious to him that his young friend had made quite an impression on this Unas. He could tell that Chaka cared for Daniel Jackson a lot. Chaka looked back up at Teal’c then nodded his head moving to the side to allow Teal’c passage. Teal’c nodded his head then headed for the door carrying his precious burden within his arms. He would not allow Daniel Jackson to die. He would get him the help he needed. A long time ago he had vowed to be Daniel’s protector and that protectiveness turned into a great respect and love for the man who dared befriend him even after he stole and murdered his wife. Daniel was too good a human being to die so young.

Jack turned to once again focus on his second in command. She had been talking and now she was silent. He watched her intently sensing her emotions were in utter turmoil over what she had done. Jack interrupted the silence by saying, “Carter, you can’t change the past. What’s done is done. If you sit there and continue to torment yourself over actions you had to take you’ll only make yourself sick. He’ll be all right…and if he’s not then we’ll deal with it. If he should…we’ll get through it together. Do you hear me Samantha Carter?”

Sam fell silent as she cast her eyes in the direction of those woods once more. She couldn’t get the image of Daniel bleeding out of her mind. She couldn’t cast aside her emotions. She had seriously hurt him. She had placed Daniel’s life in serious jeopardy by wounding him critically. She understood that if she hadn’t acted than Colonel O’Neill would be dead…hell, he could still die. What a mess this trip has become. They were sent here on a search and rescue mission. Their orders were simple enough: search for Daniel and rescue him. Nowhere in those orders did it state that they were to shoot one member to protect the other. Nowhere in those orders did it say that both Jack and Daniel could possibly become casualties. Nowhere. But fate had different ideas. Sam shook her head as she turned to focus on Jack. He was once again staring at her intently. She muttered a quick apology, “Sorry sir.”

“What the hell are you apologizing for, Carter? Had it been you he had attacked and nearly killed I would’ve done the same…”

“No you wouldn’t have. You couldn’t shoot Daniel.”

“Carter, I worked in Special Ops for the past oh ten or so years. I’m trained to do what I have to do to survive. If I sensed a danger to a member of my team I’d protect them at all costs…”

“But you would have never critically injured him if he were a member of your team. Sir, I had a choice to make. I knew that I had to shoot Daniel or he would have killed you, but I also trained on weapons long enough to know where to shoot to kill and where to shoot to injure. I shot to kill, Colonel. I…I acted on instinct. I didn’t think of whom I was shooting I only knew that I had to do so to keep you alive. Colonel, I shot him in the back, and I shot him on his left side. I could’ve pierced his lung or taken out one of his kidneys. For all I know sir, Daniel could be…dead. I…if he is… Sir, he’s never done anything to hurt anyone. I shot an innocent man.”

“Sam, stop doubting yourself. You did the right thing. Daniel knows you did. I know that he understands why you shot him where you did. I’m positive he already forgave you. You need to accept the choice you made and quit regretting it. If you would’ve hesitated he could have killed me then turned on you. Hell, he could’ve killed all of us if you hadn’t stopped him. That was not Daniel who attacked me that was a Goa’uld larva. That was a primitive Goa’uld whose basic instinct would be to defend its self. The symbiote was acting on a primitive level. It attacked me before I could attack it. It was merely acting out of self-defense. Carter, there are going to be other times in your life that you may have to make the same or a similar decision to save his life or another’s. If I would’ve attacked Daniel then tried to kill him you would’ve reacted the same way. You’re trained to make decisions on the spin of a dime, Carter. You made a call and it was a good call. You probably saved my life in the process. Stop beating yourself up over something you had to do. You know what would have occurred if you hadn’t acted when you did. Your choice was the right one. We all know that…even Daniel does.”

Jack tried to keep his extreme worry from ever reaching his face. He knew that Carter did the right thing but after she told him of where exactly she had shot Daniel he feared that the man might not survive this trip. He knew the implications of such a grave injury. She said she had shot him in his left side. He could now have a collapsed lung or be bleeding heavily internally. Jack hoped that Daniel was all right. They came here to rescue him and Jack was determined to return with all of his team alive and intact. He had no intentions of bringing a dead teammate back through that gate. No way in hell!

Sam cleared her throat as she once again fought to keep tears that were threatening to spill over at bay. She focused on Jack asking, “Colonel, how are you feeling?”

Jack noticed her sudden change of topic, and he could also tell that Sam was on the verge of tears. She was one tough soldier but right now she was dealing with two teammates who could both die on her. She was performing very well under the stress of the situation. He was very proud of her for holding herself together so well under the circumstances. If their roles were reversed Jack wasn’t sure if he’d be quite as able to hold it together.

Instead of pointing out the obvious change in topic Jack answered her question, “Yes…I’ll probably have a headache for the next week…but I’m feeling much better.”

Sam smiled sadly. Jack could tell that she was struggling to continue on. He grasped her hand in his then focusing on her face he encouraged, “Quit worrying. They’ll be fine. They’ll probably be back in the next few minutes. Carter, you need to relax…”

“Right…Relax? Colonel, I might never be able to relax again especially if…”

“Carter, didn’t I tell you to stay positive?”

“Yes sir.”

“Then do it. If you continue to blame yourself and argue with yourself you’re going to get sick. What would happen if Teal’c were to show up and you were sick? He’d have a concussed teammate, a wounded teammate and an ill teammate. You have to stay positive and when Teal’c returns with Daniel then you’ll have to be able to tend to him and get him to the Stargate. Daniel will need immediate medical attention when he gets here. We won’t have a whole lot of time to waste.”

“What about the Goa’uld? Would it heal him?”

“I don’t really know, Carter. I don’t think so…whether it will or not isn’t the point. The point is you have to be prepared for every possible scenario. If the symbiote didn’t heal Daniel then he’ll need immediate medical attention. Expect the worst…then you’ll be prepared for it…”

Teal’c carried his wounded friend back in the direction he had come. With each step he drew closer to Carter and O’Neill’s location. Knowing that he was closer to his other two teammates made him feel better, but the fear still remained within him. He could tell that Daniel was very feverish and fading fast. The man was so feverish that the heat from his body was radiating off of him in waves causing even Teal’c to break out in a sweat. He knew that was not a good sign, a high fever was another possible danger to his injured friend. It could kill just as quickly as a bullet wound. The more the infection spread within him the higher the fever shot. Teal’c increased his pace determined to get Daniel the help he so desperately needed before it was too late for him. Daniel was deathly still in his arms. His breathing sounded labored and with each breath Teal’c could hear the underlying pain that imprisoned his friend.

Teal’c nearly jumped for joy when he could see the small copse of trees where he had left Carter only a few hours ago. He felt completely relieved as he drew nearer their location. They still had to make it to the Stargate but at least they were now with their friends. He picked up his pace faltering as he noticed Carter sitting on the ground looking at O’Neill who was presently propped upright against a tree. He suddenly felt worry and fear increase within him. Was O’Neill all right or had Daniel’s unexpected attack seriously injured him as well? Teal’c quietly approached the two remaining members of SG-1 unaware that he had slowed his pace down considerably when worry for Colonel O’Neill filled him. He drew to a halt only a few feet from the two realizing that neither heard his approach. He unconsciously intensified his grip on Daniel only realizing it when Daniel cried out in sudden pain. He immediately glanced down at the man in his arms and watched as Daniel slipped his tongue out between his lips dragging it slowly across them to moisten them. He was sure that Daniel was still unconscious until the man spoke just above a whisper, “Teal’c, where are we?”

Teal’c stared intently into the face of his severely injured friend. He was extremely glad to see that Daniel was awake once more. He smiled at Daniel as he calmly replied in a low tone of voice, “We are near the Stargate now Daniel Jackson. We will get you home.”

Daniel’s face suddenly creased in confusion. The Stargate? Teal’c said that they were near the Stargate, but how? He inquired, “The Stargate? How...what…where’s Chaka?”

“He chose to remain behind.”

Daniel simply nodded in response to that comment then closed his eyes as lightheadedness swept through him once more. As a feminine voice spoke Daniel opened his eyes staring in the direction of that voice. He sighed in relief as his eyes fell on Sam Carter. Teal’c also glanced up as Sam muttered a quick, “Oh my God, Daniel!”

Daniel focused on her and offered her a weak smile. He could tell that she has been worrying excessively and felt bad about being the source of most of that worry. He could also see the guilt within her. He knew that he was also the source of her guilt. He spoke gently to her, “Hi Sam.”

“Daniel? Daniel I’m…I…I’m so sorry…”

Daniel continued to smile at her then said, “I know. Don’t worry about it. You had no choice. I understand.”

“But if you…”

“Ah…I said don’t worry about it…how’s Jack? Teal’c told me what I did…how is he?”

Jack’s very concerned voice came to him as he replied, “I’m fine, Danny boy. How about you?”

Daniel sighed in relief when he heard the voice of his friend speaking. Thank God Jack was all right. He attempted to focus on Jack, but Sam blocked his view. He quickly replied, “Thank God… I’m so sorry, Jack. I’m so sorry. I…”

Jack attempted to rise. Sam quickly offered him her help knowing and understanding Jack’s need to see Daniel face to face. He drew shakily to his feet wanting to get a closer look at his friend. Teal’c must’ve sensed what he planned to do because he quickly carried Daniel over to him. When Jack looked down at his friend he could tell that Daniel was definitely not fairing too well. He was extremely pale and beads of sweat covered his face. Daniel looked as if he had at least one foot in death’s door already. Jack shivered as that thought entered his mind. He gently pressed his hand against Daniel’s forehead feeling uneasiness continue to creep up within him as he could feel the extreme heat coming from the man.

Daniel moaned as he felt the cool hand press against his fevered brow and quickly turned towards the source wanting the coolness to remain. He was so hot and Jack’s hand felt so good. His hand was so cool against his searing flesh. It felt absolutely heavenly. Daniel mumbled, “God Jack, I’m so sorry…so sorry…”

Jack lowered his voice to a soothing pitch as he crooned, “Shh…shh…just relax Danny. You need to relax. We’ll get you home. You just need to hang in there. Okay?”

Daniel nodded his head feeling exhaustion once again tugging at him. All he wanted to do right now was drift asleep once more. His tired voice answered just above a whisper, “’Kay Ja’k…”

Daniel felt his eyes drifting shut and was prepared to follow that lead but as he recalled how he almost killed Jack he once again forced them back open. He wasn’t ready to drift into unconsciousness. He had to reassure himself that Jack was really, truly all right. As he focused on his friend’s face he frowned noticing the deep gash on the man’s temple. He knew, without having to ask, that he was the one who provided Jack with that injury. He felt guilt swamp him even more at the knowledge. God, it was his fault that Jack was hurt…all his fault! He cursed continuing to watch his friend as guilt plagued him.

Jack could tell that Daniel was feeling extremely guilty over what had occurred. None of this was Daniel’s fault, so why did the man insist on blaming himself? Jack found that to be incredibly frustrating. Carter and Daniel were both like that. They were both so ready to take on the blame when the events were completely out of their control to begin with. He noticed that Daniel was fighting against his body’s insistent call for rest. Daniel was in very bad shape. He didn’t even see the injury yet, but he knew that the wound was infected or else Daniel wouldn’t have such a high fever. Their next plan of action was simple: get Daniel to the Stargate and back home to the infirmary where Fraiser could take care of him. As he continued to focus on Daniel he felt suddenly lightheaded and cold. God, why was he suddenly so damned cold? He knew immediately that something wasn’t right. He felt even shakier on his feet and struggled to remain focused. What the hell was happening to him? He not only felt cold, but now he felt ill. He couldn’t ignore the sudden arrival of such odd symptoms. He had to tell Carter. Jack suddenly muttered, “Uh, Carter…I’m not feeling so good…”

He no sooner got the words out before he was doubling over and vomiting. Oh shit, what the hell was wrong now? Jack continued to heave only faintly aware of Daniel’s desperate voice calling his name and of Carter’s hand rubbing gently up and down across his back. When he finally ceased vomiting he quickly spit the remainder of the bile out of his mouth. He swiped his hand across his mouth rapidly feeling himself shudder in response to vomiting. He hated when he vomited. Recalling hearing Daniel’s desperate voice calling to him he turned to focus on Daniel. His friend’s face was stricken with worry and guilt. Daniel was afraid. He could see that the man was very afraid…not for himself mind you, oh no, rarely did Danny think of himself at a time like this. Let’s just forget the fact that Daniel had a critical gun shot wound at the moment and a dangerously high fever to bat. No, Daniel’s only concern was for him. He wasn’t worrying about himself. He was solely focused on Jack. He had to reassure his friend that he was all right…even though he knew that he was far from it. He was still as cold as hell and only growing colder by the minute. Jack was sure he knew exactly what those symptoms were indicative of. He was slipping into shock. He obviously had some other injury that he was unaware of, for he was fast approaching unconsciousness yet again. He had to tell Carter, but first he had to make certain that Daniel would be all right. Daniel was shaken up badly as it was and if he were to see Jack slipping into shock right before him… Jack shook his head as he focused on his friend who was still obviously fighting off unconsciousness himself.

Daniel felt his heart skip a beat as Jack suddenly doubled and vomited. He knew that was not a good sign. He prayed that Jack would be perfectly fine. Jack had to be all right. He felt totally helpless. He was to damned weak to offer Jack any kind of aid whatsoever. All he could do was watch as his best friend kneeled on the ground puking his guts out. He watched as Sam quickly stepped to Jack’s side focusing intently on him. Daniel felt his heart lurch in his chest as he witnessed Jack falling to his knees and begin to vomit. What the hell was wrong with Jack? He cried out, “JACK!” as he continued to observe his friend. Oh God, what had he done? Daniel felt extremely guilty knowing that he was the source of Jack’s present condition. It was because of him that Jack was now on his knees vomiting. It was because of him that Jack had that nasty gash on his temple. God, Jack had to be all right. He just had to be! He could feel exhaustion make another grab for him and quickly avoided falling into it. He couldn’t rest knowing that Jack was in trouble. He continued to focus on his friend very much aware of how the image of Jack and Sam continued to waiver before his eyes. Shit, he was going to pass out again. No, he couldn’t…not while Jack was in trouble. NO! His body chose to ignore that command of Daniel’s as blackness started to rapidly encroach his vision. He forced himself to watch Jack finding that he was battling with his body’s demands, but he was fighting a losing battle. The last thing he saw before darkness claimed him was Jack collapsing on the ground.

Jack attempted to rise once again all too aware of how much Daniel was worried about him. He had to get to Daniel to reassure him that he was fine, but as he attempted to arise darkness closed in on him and he collapsed where he knelt.

Sam froze as Jack suddenly collapsed before her. She felt a strong fear fill her rapidly. She focused intently on Jack beginning to scan his body and check him over. As she pressed her hand to his skin it felt cool and clammy to the touch. Oh God no, this couldn’t be happening. NO! She checked him very thoroughly he couldn’t be lapsing into shock! She quickly checked his pulse silently urging it to be beating strong, but as she felt the faint rapid pulse beating beneath her hand she felt her spirits fall even further. She then listened to his breathing noting that it was both shallow and rapid. She cursed out loud as she realized he was in shock, “Shit! Goddamn it no! Don’t you dare do this to me, Colonel!”

Upon hearing the desperation singeing Carter’s words Teal’c approached her inquiring, “Major Carter, what is wrong?”

“Ah, shit! He’s in shock. Damn it! He was doing so well. There must’ve been another injury that I couldn’t see. We have to get him back to the Stargate as quickly as possible or he may die…how’s Daniel?”

Teal’c focused on the face of his friend noticing that Daniel was once again asleep. He quickly replied, “Daniel Jackson is unconscious again.”

“Damn it, why is this happening! We should have never separated from the other two teams. Damn it! I can’t carry Jack and you can only carry one of them at a time. They both need immediate medical attention.”

“So what are we to do?”

“We? I have to make another damned decision! I have to make another damned choice! God, I can’t make this choice! It’s too damned hard!”

“What choice is that, Major Carter?”

“I need to decide who’s in more need of medical attention. Teal’c, you’re going to have to carry both Jack and Daniel back to the Stargate. I can’t carry either of them. They’re both too heavy for me and neither of them is presently conscious. You can only carry one of them at a time. I’ll stay behind with one of them as you take the other through the gate. Then, once you get them back, you have to return immediately for the other. They’re both close to death. They both desperately need medical attention. We have no time to waste. The longer we wait the less the chance of survival is for either of them.”

“So who shall I take first?”

Carter nervously bit her lower lip as she focused on first Jack then Daniel. She had to make another one of those quick decisions. God, she hated being put in this kind of a position, but she had a judgment to make and she had little time to sit here and debate about all the pros and cons of each. She focused on Daniel who seemed to be stable at the moment. She then glanced at Jack who was obviously in shock. She knew which one she had to send back first, but she hated to make the call. She verbalized her anger and frustration at having to make such a drastic decision, “Shit! I hate making these kinds of decisions! Shit!”

Teal’c knew how difficult this kind of a decision was to make. He waited patiently for her answer gently encouraging, “Major Carter, you must make a choice now. The longer we wait the less chance of survival for either of them. You must make a decision.”

She focused intently on Teal’c then once again glanced from Daniel to Jack. God this had to be one of the hardest damned decisions she’s ever had to make in her life! She inhaled deeply as she quickly voiced her final verdict, “Jack…It’ll have to be Jack.”

She stood up and focused on Daniel briefly. God, did she make the right call? She shook her head. She had no time to stand here and argue with herself about the call she had made. She knew that it was the right decision, but she also knew that she was placing one man’s life above another’s. She began to voice her rationale for her determination, “Daniel’s still stable…for the moment. Jack, on the other hand…the longer he goes without medical aid the closer he draws to death.”

Teal’c nodded his head in agreement responding, “I will take Colonel O’Neill to the Stargate. When we have arrived on Earth then I will return for you and Doctor Jackson.”

Teal’c focused on Daniel then on Jack. He knew that both of them were in serious danger. They were both now very close to death. He carefully placed Daniel on the ground beside Jack noticing Carter wrapping her jacket around O’Neill to keep him warm. He laid Daniel down careful not to jar his injury. He focused on Daniel’s face and gently brushed a piece of lose hair off of Daniel’s forehead as he spoke softly, “I will be back for you, my friend.”

He then turned to lift O’Neill into his arms. Sam said, “You need to be careful with him. I know he has some internal injury, but I don’t know what it is. You need to keep him warm. You need to hurry, but try not to jar him. You could make things worse if you’re not careful with him. Go. Now. We’ll be here.”

Teal’c nodded his head then gathered O’Neill up in his arms glancing once more at Daniel then Sam. He added, “I will be back shortly, Major Carter.”

He then turned in the direction of the Stargate and started his journey. He was very glad that they were so much closer to the gate now. He knew that time was something that neither Jack nor Daniel had. He had to act quickly or they both could die.

Sam watched as Teal’c made his way rapidly in the direction of the Stargate then she turned back to Daniel whispering, “Oh God, I hope I made the right decision. Please let it have been the right decision.”

She focused on Daniel’s still face, kneeling beside him as she pressed her hand against his cheek. She could feel the fever burning and raging within him. He didn’t have much time left either. The higher his fever arose the more danger of brain damage and death for him. She didn’t know what else to do. She has two severely injured teammates who both need immediate medical attention, but Jack was the more serious of the two. Daniel’s injury was very serious as well, but for the moment he was still stable. Jack, on the other hand, slipped into shock and usually a shock victim had little time before death found them. She had to choose Jack because he was in more danger. She whispered, “Oh God Daniel, please hang in there. Please. We’ll get you help. You just have to hang in there for a little while longer. Please Daniel, please.”

She stared intently at his face silently encouraging him to hang on then turned her focus to his wound. She was relieved to see that it was bandaged now. She resisted her urge to examine the injury knowing that to remove those bandages that were now successfully stemming the blood flow could cause the bleeding to start again. If he lost any more blood he’d probably die. She was unsure as to how much blood he had already lost but from the looks of his jacket and pants she knew that he had bled rather heavily from the injury. He was very still but as he continued to inhale and exhale shakily Sam knew that he was still alive. She prayed that he could hold on for as long as it would take for Teal’c to get him home. She clenched her eyes shut as the overwhelming urge to cry once again swamped her. She silently cursed telling herself she had to remain strong. She could do no good for Daniel if she left her emotions run rampant. She inhaled deeply as she regained her focus. She once again found herself staring intently at Daniel’s face silently urging him to hold on just a little while longer. She gently gripped his hand in hers drawing some small bit of comfort from feeling that still warm hand within her own.

Teal’c knew the dangers that both Jack and Daniel were now facing. He also knew that he had to act fast. He had little time to waste. He felt relieved as he saw the Stargate in the distance and increased his pace. Once there he punched in Earth’s address then sent his GDO code through. He waited patiently for the SGC to identify the incoming travelers who were on their way.

In the gate room the speakers once again announced, “Incoming travelers. Repeat. Incoming travelers!”

General Hammond focused intently on the screen waiting for the GDO code to be recognized by the computer. He knew that SG-1 still remained off world as well as several other teams. As the recognition signal appeared on the screen Hammond sighed in relief. It was SG-1’s signal. They had been growing more and more worried about SG-1 when they hadn’t checked in. The other two teams were already here on Earth and the members of SG-1 were the only remaining members on that planet. He headed down to the embarkation room to greet his team. He watched as Doctor Fraiser entered the room and felt confident that her assistance might not be needed this time. As a lone figure stepped through the gate Hammond’s confidence faltered and his fear increased. He immediately recognized the one who arrived and in his arms was a very unconscious Colonel O’Neill. He immediately demanded, “Teal’c what happened? Where are Major Carter and Doctor Jackson?”

“Colonel O’Neill has slipped into shock. He needs immediate medical attention.”

As Janet’s team quickly relieved Teal’c of the precious burden placing Jack on a gurney to rush him to emergency Teal’c focused on Hammond continuing, “General, I must return to the planet immediately. Doctor Jackson does not have much time left. He was critically injured. I must return for him.”

“WHAT?”

Daniel was critically injured? How? What the hell had happened on that planet? The mission was to go in and rescue Daniel not bring back two badly injured teammates. What the hell happened on that damned planet? Hammond didn’t like the look in Teal’c’s eyes or the way he held himself so erect, so tense. Something had obviously occurred while SG-1 had been returning to the Stargate. The other two teams had reported Jackson was retrieved unharmed and that SG-1 should be returning shortly so obviously something happened after SG-1 were left alone…something that caused two members to become seriously injured.

Doctor Fraiser glanced up at Teal’c feeling uneasiness sweep through her at the news. Teal’c was saying that Daniel had also been injured? How badly? What were his present injuries? She had to be prepared to give him immediate attention as well if his condition was that deteriorated. She questioned, “What’s wrong with Daniel?”

“He has been wounded…”

“Wounded? How?”

“He was shot, Doctor Fraiser. He has a gun shot wound to his left side.”

Janet stared at Teal’c not sure of what to say or even how to react to the news. She was having a very hard time comprehending the information Teal’c provided her with. Shot…with a gun. Why? Who shot Daniel and why? How badly was the young man injured? She could only gasp muttering, “Oh my God…Teal’c what happened?”

Instead of supplying her with any kind of answer Teal’c focused on the General demanding he be allowed to return to the planet, “I must return to P3X-888. It is imperative. The longer I remain here the less chance Doctor Jackson has of survival.”

Hammond nodded immediately authorizing Teal’c’s return to P3X-888. He responded, “You bring Doctor Jackson home…alive.”

Teal’c nodded his head saying, “Thank you General.”

“Do you need back up?”

“No. I simply must return to the planet to retrieve Daniel Jackson before his time runs out.”

“You may go. Dial up P3X-888 immediately!”

As soon as the wormhole disengaged the coordinates for P3X-888 were quickly redialed. Janet turned to focus on O’Neill noting that he was definitely in shock. She was thankful that her aides were already prepping him for the OR. She quickly ordered the nurse to get him into surgery then ordered a second nurse to get blood prepared for Daniel. She had no idea what to expect when Teal’c returned with Daniel, but she had to be prepared for anything. Teal’c said he was shot so he most likely would now be in need of blood depending on just how much blood the man has so far lost. She cursed as she thought of all the bad luck SG-1 has been handed as of late then she pushed her thoughts to the back of her mind knowing she had to remain solely focused on her patient.

Teal’c wasted little time entering the Stargate once the wormhole was established. He was through the gate and running back towards Carter and Daniel’s locale before the gate even shut down again. He knew that little time remained and as he finally approached their locale Major Carter glanced up at him saying, “Oh thank God Teal’c! Let’s go. Daniel’s not doing to well.”

Teal’c kneeled down beside his friend pressing his hand against the man’s forehead. He inhaled sharply when he felt the heat radiating from the man. He whispered, “We are almost home, my friend. You must remain strong.”

The only indication that Teal’c received from the young man that he was still fighting was a quiet moan and the slightest turn of his head. At least it was a sign that Daniel was still in there. After Daniel stilled again Teal’c gently lifted the young man into his arms preparing to carry him to the Stargate. He tried not to notice how Daniel’s head simply flopped against his chest and his breathing sounded even more labored than before. He would get Daniel to the SGC on time. He wasn’t about to let the man die.

The first thing he noticed, as he started to head to the gate, was how hot Daniel was. He was positive that the fever within the young man increased. He tried not to be distracted by that observation as he made his way rapidly in the direction of the Stargate. He glanced at Major Carter noting her strained features. He commented, “He will be fine, Major Carter. We will get him the help he needs. Let us not delay any longer.”

She nodded in Teal’c’s direction then focused intently on the unconscious form of her friend. Daniel’s breathing had since become even more haggard than before. She knew that he was balancing precariously on the edge of death, and she knew that one wrong move could send him over that edge into the afterlife. She shook as she thought of that and yelled at herself to remain positive. Daniel would be fine, and Jack would be fine. She just had to do as her CO had commanded and remain positive.

The journey back through the gate happened in a blur. She was only half aware of the three of them entering the wormhole and being shuttled through space to arrive on Earth. Once in the SGC a flurry of activity arose all around her. Med techs were already there with a gurney ready to take the unconscious archaeologist to the infirmary. She watched in a haze as Daniel was quickly strapped up to a heart monitor and an oxygen mask was placed over his nose and mouth. Not only had she noticed his laboring for breath but obviously so had the med techs. She watched speechless and frozen as Daniel was rushed away on a gurney to the infirmary. She stood there for a few minutes longer unable to move. It was only when she focused on General Hammond that she left herself believe that she had gotten Daniel and Jack successfully back to the SGC. She felt her knees go weak and knew that she was going to collapse. She decided not even to resist the urge as her legs buckled beneath her. She gasped when she was suddenly caught in strong arms. Teal’c’s voice came to her through the noise and confusion, “You are all right now, Major Carter. We have succeeded. Daniel Jackson and Colonel O’Neill are being taken care of as we speak.”

She didn’t pull from Teal’c or resist leaning back into his warm, strong body. She allowed his strength and comfort to fill her willingly allowing his arms to wrap tenderly around her body to hold her upright. She leaned her head back against Teal’c’s shoulder closing her eyes as she felt an overwhelming burden suddenly lift from her soul. They had succeeded…they brought Daniel and Jack home, and now they would have to wait for Janet to finish tending to them. As she told herself that she allowed her eyes to open and noticed that General Hammond still stood before her looking at her in concern. He smiled reassuringly her way as he said, “Good job Major Carter…Teal’c. Now I’m ordering you both to report to the infirmary but stay out of Doctor Fraiser’s way. She’s quite busy at the moment. We’ll brief in five hours.”

“Yes sir.”

Teal’c nodded his head in Hammond’s direction then focused on Major Carter once more. He questioned, “Are you able to walk without assistance?”

“I think so.”

“Then come. Let us go to the infirmary.”

Sam nodded finding she had the strength to stand once more. Teal’c released her but still placed a supportive arm across her shoulders prepared to aid her if she needed it. She knew she didn’t need help to get to the infirmary, but she did need the reassurance of physical contact. All her fears were still very much alive within her. Yes, they had successfully brought Jack and Daniel home alive, but neither of them was completely out of the woods yet. They were both still in danger. She couldn’t relax just yet.

As they entered the infirmary voices and noises surrounded them and greeted them. The nurses were very busy trying to stabilize both Jack and Daniel. Sam once again sent a silent prayer into the heavens for both of them. If either of them died she would hold herself solely responsible. Both of their lives had been in her hands. She was responsible for Daniel’s injury and Jack’s. She should’ve been more thorough when she had first examined the Colonel. God, if only she had been more thorough…if only she had been more…

The soft, reassuring voice of Teal’c’s came to her through her conflicting thoughts as he said, “Major Carter, they will both be fine. Daniel Jackson and Colonel O’Neill are both very strong individuals. They are strong and they are stubborn. They will not give up without a fight…”

“I know it’s just that…”

Teal’c watched Carter closely. He knew that she was feeling very responsible for what had happened to both of their teammates. He could see the blame and doubt within her as she stared blankly in the direction of the floor. He guided her gently onto a couch maintaining his physical touch across her shoulders. He pulled her against him sensing that she needed reassurance and a shoulder to lean on. As she sighed heavily Teal’c once again focused on her face lowering his voice even more as he added, “Major Carter, none of this is your fault. You will help no one if you continue to blame yourself for things out of your control…”

“Out of my control? Teal’c, I had choices to make…I handled those situations completely wrong. I should have been able to realize that the colonel w