Always Forgiven, Never Forgotten | By : A.K.O.Shifting-Shadow Category: Stargate: SG-1 > Slash - Male/Male Views: 1203 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0 |
Disclaimer: I do not own Stargate SG1. I make no profit posting this story. Any relation to person/s or place/s real or imagined is purely coincidental. |
"Symbiote speaking." I'm using bold to represent the echoing voice symbiotes have when they speak.
"Host speaking."
-Symbiote speaking to host.-
Host speaking to symbiote.
Chapter Six: Bonding
“SG1 report to the briefing room.” Louis glanced up and frowned. We’re not due for another mission are we? He thought as he stood and left his on base quarters. Unless General Hammond does not want us, just O’Neill, Carter, Jackson and Teal’c.
-No, Mer Prinekh. Remember that we are part of SG1 until further notice. He requires all of us to be there.- Malek shifted as he ‘awoke’. –He must have a mission for us, or perhaps information.- He added. –Let’s go and find out.-
Louis accepted Malek’s words and strolled through the base. Many gave the two a wide berth, as some were uncomfortable with a symbiote amongst their ranks. Malek did not mind this however as many if not all of his hosts felt the same until they had bonded. Louis however was still uncomfortable with people knowing he was different and in some ways ‘unlike’ them. Malek wished to help him but there was little he could do, especially since he was the symbiote that had caused the divide between Louis and his comrades.
“Ferretti.” Hammond greeted as Louis stepped into the briefing room. Louis bowed his head in greeting before taking a seat besides Carter and Jackson.
“What is this about, sir?” O’Neill asked curiously as he leant back in his chair and fiddled with a pen.
“One of our off-world teams has missed their check in. We’ve tried to get in contact but either they are not receiving our signal or are unable to answer. I need you to go through the wormhole and establish contact with the team or rescue them if necessary.” Hammond instructed.
I wonder what has happened.
-That is what we’re going to find out.- Malek replied. –Do they have any background on the planet? Or are we going in blind?-
“Do we have anything on the planet we’re heading to?” Louis asked, repeating Malek’s question out loud. “Malek does not want to go in blind.”
Hammond gave them an approving smile. “The planet is Anvil, home to a primitive race of people that were affectionally called Cave-Dwellers by the SG 9, the team we sent. The sun is apparently many times stronger than ours. You will appropriate protection from the harmful sun rays.” He instructed. “Are you prepared to take this mission?”
O’Neill glanced around and everyone gave him a nod accepting the mission. “We’ll take it sir. Gives us half hour to prepare and we’ll be ready.” O’Neill stated.
“Very well, report to the gate-room in half hour.” Hammond instructed.
Louis waited for O’Neill to move before he dared to stand and leave the room. Malek could sense that the host did not want to bring any unwanted attention to himself. Malek relaxed against his spine deciding not to get involved, Louis clearly needed to make some decisions for himself without Malek’s input. His host immediately raced to the changing room with the rest of SG1 right behind him. Louis approached his locker and pulled out a uniform. After rubbing his exposed skin with sun lotion, he quickly changed and armed himself. The five team members left the room and gathered in the gate room.
“Chevron five encoded…” Malek sighed at the pointless procedure in annoyance. –I know I’ve said it before but this procedure is annoying! Just open the damn gate so we can go!- He complained wiggling in annoyance. Louis chuckled at Malek’s squirming earning stares from his comrades. Malek mentally smirked as Louis shrugged with a small smile, then as if they were one person all five of them glanced amongst themselves and pulled on shades. –That looked rehearsed.- Malek thought in amusement.
“You’re clear to leave.” Hammond stated. “Find out what happened to the other SG team and report back.” He instructed. O’Neill nodded in answer and led the team through the wormhole.
Almost immediately Louis felt the harsh sunlight against his skin but the shades, sun cream and Malek helped soothe the harshness of the sun’s rays. Louis was in no danger of cancer; Malek was easily able to stop the disease before it took hold. Malek watched as the five team members cautiously explored the area. –Louis, someone is hidden in the area.-
Where?
-Beneath the leaves and soil, there.- Malek pointed out to his host. Louis immediately hummed in recognition. It wasn’t noticeable to untrained eyes but the ground was ‘bloated’ whereas the rest was relatively flat. Malek and Louis watched as Jackson approached the area unaware of the ambush she was walking into. Louis immediately raced forward but his reaction was too slow and by the time his body had even moved the hidden figure had lunged and was holding a gun to Jackson’s neck. O’Neill quickly held the man by gunpoint. “Okay, okay. Don’t shoot.” Daniel pleaded.
“Very sound advice.” O’Neill growled to Connors.
‘Lt. Connor’ was hysterical, sprouting nonsense about death and craziness. The man was panicking and that made him a threat to them, however Malek had to hand it to the human, even when hysterical he kept his head. He recognised Colonel O’Neill and backed down releasing Dr Jackson. “What happened Connor?” O’Neill asked lowering his weapon once he was assured Daniel was safe.
Connor gave them a brief overview of what had happened thus far before hesitating and staring cautiously at O’Neill. “Permission to speak freely about a superior officer, sir.” He asked, O’Neill raised an eyebrow but nodded his permission. “He’s crazy, sir!”
“Who?”
“Captain Hanson, sir. He’s convinced the natives that he’s their God. He’s got them building a huge temple in his name and anyone who defies him is left in the sun to burn. The natives have no resistance against the sun, it kills them slowly and painfully, sir.” Connor paused. “The worst part is, that he really believes he’s their God, sir.”
“That sounds just like him…” Carter murmured.
-He believes himself to be their God.- Malek stated in amusement but Louis could feel the anger boiling beneath the surface. –And the natives believe him?-
Perhaps the natives believed that because he and his team survive the harsh sun, that they are Gods and because he is their leader he is the almighty God.
-No, there is probably a little bit more than that. He would have had to convince them somehow. Perhaps with the death of a few natives and one of his own with ‘powerful weapons’.- Malek replied. –But why would he need to act like a God? Ah, do not answer that, I think I understand. Power, control.-
Sadly, that is the truth, a lot of people would do anything for power and if they ‘believe’ it enough they can make it real. And if it becomes real, they are convinced it is the truth. Which means Jonas may have started using it as a position of power but something convinced him it was the truth. That he is, somehow, God. Louis replied.
-So he has somehow convinced himself that he is God. That sounds remarkably like the Goa’uld. It seems that our two species are not so different after all.- Malek thought quietly. Louis hated the thought that his kind were similar to the parasites but even the host could not deny Captain Hanson was so close to a Goa’uld that it was scary. –This mission will be difficult. The natives will not believe us when we tell them that Hanson is no God. They would not listen only capture, torture and kill us. We must prove he is no God.-
How.
-Hmm, that will be difficult. We need to learn more about the natives and their planet, we need to show them they can live without a ‘God’.- Malek replied. –But I have no idea how we will do this… we need to find something the natives need but Hanson cannot supply.-
Then we will need to scout the area and gain as much Intel as we can.
-Exactly, which means we have to keep Hanson unaware of our presence until we have time to scout and learn what we can.- Malek added. –Perhaps O’Neill will allow us to explore. I am sure that alone we could investigate far better than if we were part of a group.-
I don’t think so. We need to stick together.
-The natives out number us, even if we were together as a group we may not outrun them or be able to defend ourselves for long.- Malek replied. –We need to get our team and the remainder of SG9 out of there safely. To do this we must get off planet without causing a scene. Hanson will cause a scene because he believes himself to be their God, he will not want to be separated from his willing slaves. We must make those slaves unwilling to follow him by proving that he is not a God.-
But would that not turn them violent. To know they’ve been tricked by one of us?
-We can only hope that we can keep the peace.- Malek replied thoughtfully. –However I don’t know how we do that. We need to find something the natives need more than revenge.-
I doubt we could do that. The natives will be really upset. Louis said cautiously. I doubt anything could excuse one of our own acting like their God.
-Then we will have to get Hanson out of there without causing a scene.- Malek replied. –But that will border on impossible. He’d be surrounded by loyal followers and I doubt he’d be left alone or somewhere exposed. He is most likely to be in a secure place with followers all around him.-
Then what do we do?
-I do not know. For now we just try to get as much information as we can and take it from there.- Malek instructed. The two focused back out to see Jack complaining to both Connor’s and Sam about his orders being ignored, eventually he agreed that they’d stick together and take on Hanson. The older man ordered them to set up camp and get some rest. Louis and Teal’c followed O’Neill and scouted the edge of their camp, carefully setting monitors and traps. Nothing would move without their knowing about it. –Problem is that we do not know what they natives are capable of…- Malek thought.
I’ll guess we’ll find out. Louis replied as he re-joined the others and took a seat off to the side to watch for any movement in the tree-line.
“You’re the host to one of those…things, aren’t you?” Connors asked his eyes sharp as he looked Louis up and down as if he was scanning a target.
“I am.” Louis replied quietly. “Malek is not a thing, he has saved my life and the SGC multiple times. If it had not been for him Kawalsky would not have been caught until it was too late.”
“Permission to speak freely sir.” Connors asked O’Neill, the man nodded. “I do not trust him, how do we know he is not being controlled by the… creature inside him.”
“I’ve met Malek, Lt. and I have no reason to doubt the snake. He is trustworthy.” O’Neill replied. “He is a valued part of my team and an acknowledged member of the SGC. Do not bad-mouth a fellow comrade again, Lt.”
-I wonder if this means I’ve earned his respect and trust, perhaps even his friendship?- Malek thought. –It would be nice to know I’ve got Colonel O’Neill on my side.-
I think you’ve earned his trust. Perhaps by saving Kawalsky you can earn his respect and friendship too. Louis replied. “Malek is not like the parasites you’ve met. He is a symbiote, he shares with his host, a parasite controls its host, giving them no free will. Malek has become my closest friend. He is, his people call their joining a bond, Malek is my bond-mate, my closest friend. He would never harm you or anyone else because it would upset me and Malek would never upset me, just like I’d never upset him.” Louis explained out loud. “Be assured Lt. that Malek will not bring you harm and has no intentions to bring harm upon you.”
“Well, sorry but that doesn’t give me any comfort.” Connors replied before turning back to the treeline.
-Thank you for trying, Mer Prinekh but there is no need to defend me. Connors has made the choice to hate me and nothing we say can change his mind. Perhaps our future actions will gain his trust, but his choice to hate or like me is his own.- Malek explained.
I thought we’d proven ourselves. Louis replied softly, upset.
Malek curled around his host spine sending warm feelings from himself to his host. –We have proven ourselves, but your people are stubborn and some take a lot of convincing.- Malek replied tenderly. –They will eventually learn for themselves that you are trustworthy and I am a friend.-
They should have learnt it all ready.
-Some take longer to teach.- Malek replied with a smirk. –Get some rest I shall watch over us.-
Are you sure that is a good idea? Connor won’t like you in control.
-It would teach him that I have no desire to harm him. Besides what he does not know won’t harm him.- Malek said in snide amusement, Louis chuckled at Malek’s humour before agreeing to allow Malek control. Only SG1 realised what was happening as Louis lowered his head and closed his eyes. Malek took control and eased his host to sleep before opening his host’s eyes and glancing around. Connor was still unaware of Malek taking control and Malek planned to keep it that way. He turned sharp eyes to the woodland and frowned as the shadows seemed to move. With slow, careful movements, Malek strolled over to O’Neill so he could whisper to the human. “O’Neill. I believe we are not alone.” O’Neill shared a glance with Malek before glancing around and readying his weapon.
It was Connor who immediately noticed something was up; in fact as night began to fall Lt. Connor’s became more paranoid. The natives could not survive in the sun for long so they preferred to leave their caves at night, meaning night was the most dangerous time. Connor’s was wary and nervous, flinching at every movement and every sound. He knew they were coming and Malek had a feeling that the human knew they were there around them, closing in. As if to answer Malek’s suspicions the trip wires activated alerting the rest of them to movement close by.
Malek dove off to the side and hid behind a group of logs just as an arrow hit the tree he had been standing in front of. Pulling out his host’s pistol he shot at the surrounding enemies. Several cries alerted him to his targets being successfully hit but there were no sounds of bodies dropping to the floor which meant he had not killed them, merely injured or grazed them. He listened as O’Neill shouted out orders and the sounds of gun fire, then just as quickly as it had begun, it ended. The silence was worse than the over-whelming sounds of gun-fire. The five of them slowly, cautiously gathered back into the centre of the clearing, their guns ready.
“Where’s Connor’s?”
“They must have taken him.”
“Which means he’s with Captain Hanson.”
Malek didn’t need to listen to the rest of the conversation; he knew that Connor was in danger if he wasn’t already dead or dying. Time was of the essence if they wanted to save Connor’s. O’Neill seemed to agree with him as the man ordered the camp be cleaned up and that they were ready to go in a short while. Malek easily obeyed cleaning up Louis and his area to appear as if no one had been there.
“Jonas likes to be in control sir.” Carter was telling O’Neill as the older man led them through the trees. Malek snorted mentally. –Of course he does, he wants to control everyone and everything, what better way to gain that control then to pretend to be God.-
The five of them walked until sunrise, the sunlight was over-powering and the three humans were struggling, even Louis’s body was overheating but thanks to Malek, not dangerously slow. Teal’s and Malek led the way and with sharp eyes, both of them noticed the large crater. The cave dwellers were out in daylight, their skin bright pink with prolonged exposure to the dangerous sun. Several natives were tied to log pillars, one was definitely dead but the other three were shifting weakly, close to death. In the middle of them tied to another log pillar was Connor’s, it looked like he had been there for some time, his dark skin was burned and flaking and he looked like he was about to lose consciousness.
I cannot believe Captain Hanson would do this to his own man! Louis thought.
-I am not surprised, Hanson sounds like a right piece of work.- Malek thought back. –We need to get both him and Captain Hanson back to Stargate Command.-
“Be back in thirty minutes.” O’Neill instructed. “Captain, I’m going to need your help to get in there.”
Malek remained quiet as they spoke of a biblical figure and watched as an SG team member, a traitor beat an innocent native who was too tired to work. Sam raced off to save the man ignoring Daniel’s words to wait for O’Neill. They watched as she hit the man beating the innocent native. O’Neill returned shortly after and sighed as he realised she was caught. “Never mind.” He said after a while. “It’s probably our only way in without a fire-fight anyway.”
-Unfortunately he speaks truth. They may be primitive but the natives could beat us or kill us if they feel the need. One word from Hanson and we’re dead.- The host had no reply to this, there was no way he could argue, they could only watch and hope she emerged safely. O’Neill and Daniel had a different idea though. They watched as a man carefully slipped away and into the woods. “Let’s go.” O’Neill ordered.
“I’d prefer if I stayed behind and watched what was happening. Especially if Captain Carter emerges.” Malek replied.
O’Neill thought for a minute and finally nodded. “Alright. Keep an eye out for her, she may need support.” He answered.
Are you sure we should stay behind? Louis asked nervously and the others disappeared. I don’t think we can do much.
-If need be we can expose our position to them to protect her, but I doubt Hanson will kill her if he loves her as much as I believe he does. Perhaps by watching the natives and observing their behaviour we can learn more about them and use it to our advantage.-
If you’re sure.
-Do not worry, Mer Prinekh, I will not allow ourselves to fall into danger. I mean only to observe and see if there is a solution to this problem that we have missed.-
You think if we observe the natives that we may be able to ‘persuade’ them that what we say is true and Hanson is not really a God.
-Yes. If nothing else we may learn something to use over them.- Malek replied. –Wait that is the native that left. They followed him, why has he returned? Wait… that’s Jack.-
Jack?
-Yes, it’s your superior.- Malek confirmed as they watched Jack take out a guard and release Connor’s. The two men attempted to walk away but the traitor to the SGC spotted them and apprehended them. –Looks like O’Neill has got himself and Connors re-caught.- Malek thought.
What do we do?
-Nothing. Yet.- Malek thought. –We must be patient.- After a while Malek’s patience paid off. The natives and the SGC traitors left for the Chaapa’ai.
“…Behold for I, your God, control the gateway to the underworld.” Hanson stated dialling the gate. “I will send the demons back from whenst they came!” The rest of SG1 was tied up and being pushed towards the gate.
He hasn’t sent the iris code! If they get sent though they’ll die! Louis cried out. Malek was getting ready to move but he didn’t need to, Daniel and one of the natives arrived just in time to stop them. They slowly convinced the natives over Hanson’s crazy yells of how he was God and superior. What happened next shocked them both. Hanson grabbed Sam and was prepared to commit suicide with her by jumping into the gate and squashing himself against the Iris at the other end. Jack dived and took the man out, saving Sam. The natives started rioting. The dived on them both and lifted Hanson, the man cried out trying to convince them he was their God but they just threw him into the wormhole, sentencing him to death.
Louis was quiet after that. Malek could feel that the host was uncertain how to handle the man’s death. A part of Louis was pleased but another part was sorry that he died in such a way. Malek himself was snidely pleased, amused even. The man had claimed to be God and that those that travelled through the gates were demons. The natives had a strong sense of irony to send the man through the gate ‘like the demon he was’.
The natives were unsure how to take it now their God was dead and Daniel wondered if they should return but Sam simply replied that they’ve done enough. –She’s right, we’ve done enough. They need to start making decisions for themselves instead of relying on Gods.-
Yes. Let’s just hope they don’t start sacrificing people like they did Hanson. They could use his death as encouragement to kill.
-No, I don’t think they will. Enough people have died.- Malek replied. –Let’s go home.- Malek added as Louis did not answer, the host was not necessarily upset by Hanson’s death but witnessing a murder had not sat right with Louis.
They returned through the gate quiet and sombre. Hammond immediately knew something was up and demanded immediate check-ups and debriefing. Malek gently receded allowing Louis control, the host didn’t say a thing and just obeyed orders as if he was on auto-pilot. I shouldn’t be pleased he was killed… Louis mumbled.
-You are not wrong to desire his death. I did. I also took pleasure in it. There is nothing wrong with your happiness over it.- Malek replied. –People like Hanson cannot be saved and we had no way to save him. Do not regret what you cannot change. Those people killed him and they would have killed us if they believe us in league with him.-
I still wish we could have gotten him back and helped him.
-I don’t think anything could have helped him.- Malek answered gently. –Do not regret what cannot be changed, Mer Prinekh. We can only look to the future and hope something like that does not happen again.-
Why did no one notice that he was crazy?
-I do not know. But now we know to keep a closer eye on everyone around us and watch for any signs. Egotistical, arrogant, easy to anger, bossy, over controlling and someone that desires power.- Malek stated. –This mission has been hard. How about we request to leave base for a little while. Get away from the responsibility? You enjoyed camping and horse-riding. Why don’t you do that and relax. I’m sure that Stargate Command can cope with out us for a few days.-
Are you sure. Kawalsky still needs us.
-We cannot do anything until we find the Tok’ra, I’m sure that missing a few missions won’t do us any harm. We’ll find the Tok’ra, but you’re my priority right now and you need rest.- Malek replied. –Let’s have a…vacation. It won’t do anyone any harm, in fact quite the opposite.-
If you’re sure.
-I’m sure.- Malek answered.
Louis waited until everyone had left the debriefing before approaching Hammond’s office. The elderly man raised an eyebrow at them but allowed Louis entry. “Can I help you, Major?”
“Sir, I would like to request leave for a short while. Malek thinks I need a break and I agree with him.”
“Are you sure? If you leave the base you’re at the mercy of the government.” Hammond replied. “I suggest you take a friend with you.”
“Well, I Suppose Teal’c could come with me. He’s wanted to see the world but I don’t think the horses would accept him.”
“Horses?”
“Yes, I like riding in my free time. Helps me relax.” Louis confessed, Malek kept his host’s face from colouring as Louis admitted a deep personal secret. “My horse accepted Malek but Teal’c might be a different story. Besides you need SG1. Malek will take care of me sir and I only plan to be gone for a few days. We’ll keep in regular contact.”
“If you’re sure, Major. But before you leave I need you to give me the co-ordinates where you’ll be staying. If I don’t hear from you in regular intervals I will assume the worst and send a team to find you.”
Why is he so worried?
-You’re a host. You have me inside you. You hold the key to Kawalsky’s life and freedom. You hold my knowledge. Take your pick.- Malek replied.
“I’ll contact you when I get there and every evening.” Louis promised. “I probably won’t be gone very long. I just need a short while to myself, or as to myself as I can get with Malek here with me.” Louis stated trying to make a joke but it fell short as both Malek and Hammond could see he was uncomfortable.
“Very well. I’ll grant you leave. Let’s just set up the paper work and then you can go…”
It took an hour before Louis was finally permitted to leave. He had to fill out paperwork stating his location and write down a time he’d be in contact. He was given a phone with a GPS unit inside so he could be tracked and found in case of emergency. Finally Louis left the base and climbed into his car. The vehicle was dusty from disuse but he did not care he simply turned it on and listened to the engine to make sure it was working fine before leaving the parking space.
The drive was made in silence. Louis was focusing on the road whilst Malek was tight around his spine worrying about anything going wrong. Louis didn’t say anything knowing Malek would not relax until they were on solid ground. In fact Louis himself was feeling uncomfortable, he didn’t really want to drive but it was the only way to get to where they were going.
As Louis finally arrived to the area they noticed a fenced area where two people sat. Their heads immediately popped up as they heard Louis’s car. The man and woman grinned as they recognised Louis. Malek wiggled happily at the sight of the dark haired man and blonde haired woman, though they did not know him, he knew them as Charlie Darren and Victoria Matthews. Both were stable hands and horse trainers, they were good friends with his host taking care of Louis’s horse when Louis was away on duty.
Victoria raced over and hugged Louis in greeting as he faced her. “Hey Louis, what are you doing here? I thought you were on duty!”
“I was, but my boss granted me leave. I… Had an experience and need to relax and have some time to myself. Do you mind if I stay here for a few days?”
“No, no! Of course not!” Victoria cried out with an insulted expression. “As if I could say no to you. Come! Come! I’m sure Emperor will be very pleased to see you. But how about a cup of coffee first and a bath. You look like you need it.”
“I could do with a few hours to rest.” Louis admitted as he followed Victoria to a small house not far from the stables. The smell of horses was disgusting to most but Louis felt relieved at the Earthy, dirty smell. Malek chuckled at this thought but his host was right, there was something relaxing about the ‘simple life and smell’.
“Go have a bath. I’ll make you something to eat. Charlie is preparing your room for you. You can get to work tomorrow morning. You need rest for now.” Victoria instructed, her tone booking no argument.
“Thank you, Vicky. I appreciate it.” Louis replied with a chuckle as he was nudged towards the stairs. The woman just grinned in amusement watching as Louis climbed the stairs.
Louis passed Charlie on the way up and smiled at the man who smiled back. “Your rooms been prepared. Rest tonight, you can spend time with Emperor tomorrow.”
“Thank you, Charlie.”
“No problem.” The man replied before disappearing down the stairs.
Louis smiled fondly at where the man had disappeared before continuing up the stairs. He followed the familiar path to a small bedroom and slipped inside. The room was simple, it held only a bed a small bedside table, a few books and riding gear. The riding gear was Louis’s, he had left it in the care of his close friends. The room whilst simple was comforting. Another smile graced his face as he placed his bag on the bed and pulled out his essentials.
Malek said nothing as his host continued his movements, the young man prepared for his bath and then left his room for the bathroom. He ran the bath and then undressed before sliding into the water. Louis sighed and Malek purred as he felt the warm water on the back of his host’s neck. The warmth was relaxing, soothing and Malek slumped against his host’s spine. –Does this feel better, Mer Prinekh?-
Much better Malek.
-I’m glad.- Malek purred happily as Louis gently caressed the back of his neck. Louis chuckled happily as Malek wiggled in glee. Louis learned quickly that Malek was very sensitive to touch when they bathed or showered, something about the water, whether it was the heat of just its presence relaxed the symbiote.
It was half an hour later that Louis finally emerged from the bathroom. He had stayed a little longer for Malek who needed to relax just as much as he did. Malek dosed against his host’s spine as Louis strolled down the stairs dressed in just his trousers. Victoria smiled softly as he appeared in the doorway of the kitchen and pointed to his seat. She placed a large bowl in front of him filled with pasta. It was obviously a quick meal but Louis was grateful, he felt too tired to eat a proper meal. Before he returned to bed he checked in with General Hammond and told the older man he was safe and sound. Malek too was tired and relaxed and was pleased when his host had finished his phone call and returned to their bedroom. Malek stayed awake long enough to make sure Louis’s was safe and sound in bed. After checking that his host’s dreams were peaceful he too slipped into dormancy.
The next morning, Louis awoke before Malek, Malek aware that his host was awake had chosen to remain in dormancy. His host’s vacation was his own and he knew Louis needed to spend time with his friends and his horse. Louis eagerly showered and dressed before pulling on his riding gear happily ignoring his military uniform. He did however pick up his gun and its harness. When he appeared downstairs his two friends raised an eyebrow at his weapon but said nothing. The three ate in companionable silence before they silently separated.
Louis did not wait long, he raced towards the stables where he knew Emperor waited. Malek wiggled slightly as he felt Louis’s joy but remained still and docile. Louis’s joy was contagious and once he saw the bay stallion called Emperor even Malek was happy.
Malek did not fully awake until much later. By then Emperor had been fed, watered, brushed down and tacked up. Louis had done some initial warm ups with Emperor and was now commencing with normal training. Malek watched curiously as Louis controlled Emperor with touch, the host never hit or pulled too harshly. The horse was sensitised to any touch and the slightest touch on his mouth bit or his side and the horse obeyed what Louis was non-verbally asking for.
Emperor and Louis functioned as if they were bonded. Malek felt a pang of jealousy at this thought as he watched Emperor complete the tricks his master asked of him. Louis had always loved Emperor but he had mated Malek and even now he felt as if sometimes he was not as completely accepted as Louis made him feel. Still Louis was happy and that was all that mattered.
Malek.
-Yes, Mer Prinekh.- Malek replied wanting to say ‘Mer Prinekh’ to remind himself of their bond.
Would you like to try?
-Try to ride Emperor?-
Yes.
-I…-
You’re a part of me and I don’t want you to stop coming to the fore simply because you think it is my vacation. It is our vacation. You’re a part of me, my love for Emperor should be shared with you as well.
-I do not need this, Mer Prinekh, all I need to know is that you’ve thought of me. That Is more value to me than learning to ride. It is about being with you and sharing your happiness.- Malek replied, his small heart feeling warm and heavy as Louis proved once more that he had accepted Malek willingly and joyfully.
I want you to learn to ride. I want to share my happiness with you.
-I’m not sure Emperor would accept me in control. Besides I like watching and feeling your happiness.- Malek replied.
Please try.
Malek sighed. –Alright. I’ll try.-
Louis smiled and bent over his horse’s neck to be close to his stallion’s ears. “Emperor.” An ear flicked back to listen. “I’ve got a companion inside me that I’d like for you to obey as well as me. I’m going to give him control, please do not harm him.”
With Louis’s encouragement, Malek slid forward and took control, Emperor rumbled as he felt the grip on the reigns change but otherwise did not move in any way. Malek was cautious as he slowly obeyed Louis’s orders, the host instructed him on how to walk, turn and stop. Emperor obeyed unquestioningly though he did snort at the slow, careful way his rider was conducting himself.
They stopped only for lunch add by the evening Malek had learned the basics and was practicing some dressage movements to improve his control of the horse. Louis took control to finish the horse’s training and cool the horse down before taking him back to the stable to brush down and rest. You did very well for your first time. Louis praised Malek once Emperor was in his stable.
-Thank you. Many of my previous hosts were horse riders, but this is the first time I’ve ridden. I just applied what I learned from my previous hosts and you.- Malek replied. –I can understand why riding can be so ‘distracting’ and ‘relaxing’, you focus on nothing but yourself, the animal and your environment, everything fades away.-
It can be very rewarding, yet relaxing experience. Louis replied. I should have had you try it before, but now you can enjoy riding with me. I’d like to share it with you.
-Thank you.- Malek replied softly, pleased and yet over-whelmed by Louis’s show of loyalty and affection. –I think we’ve earned a good meal. What do you think Victoria has made for us?-
I don’t know but whatever it is must be delicious if the smell is anything to go by. Louis replied. As they walked in Victoria greeted them and pointed to a place already set for them. Louis smiled warmly and pulled off his gloves as he sat at the table. “If the smell is anything to go by, you’re cooking must be delicious!” Louis complimented the woman.
She smiled and placed a plate in front of him. “Well I’m not sure if it is, it is just fish, chips and peas.”
“Just that? It smells good.” Louis answered. Victoria smiled and giggled as Louis moaned at the taste and tucked into his meal. Malek smiled as Louis ranted to him about how delicious the meal was and he listened patiently as his host replayed his day with childish glee. It was good to see Louis like this, it was good Louis was free of responsibility if only for a little while. What do you think, Malek?
-I enjoyed it. It was refreshing and different. I would like to try it again.-
Well lucky you, we’re here for a few days so you can practice and learn. Louis stated. Hopefully we can get you to a level where you can ride for yourself and feel confident doing so. It could be a very valuable skill, just think of all the primitive planets where the only way to get around is on horseback. You can show off and ride! Louis stated with glee. Malek chuckled at Louis’s happiness, the host had a good idea, learning to ride may indeed be a valuable skill. Many symbiotes had hosts who could ride but had never ridden themselves, but if the host was knocked out or asleep the symbiotes should at least be able to get around. Perhaps he’d ask if the humans would allow small groups of Tok’ra on Earth to teach them how to ride. There was no harm in asking.
-I think that Martouf and Gete would like to ride. They both know how but have never ridden since they become hosts to Lantash and Aldwin. Perhaps if the Tok’ra and your kind create an alliance, we could bring others onto Earth to ride. Many hosts would appreciate and enjoy it and it may be a valuable skill for the symbiotes to learn.-
Well it is another thing we could use to encourage and alliance. Louis thought. Can you tell me about Martouf, Lantash, Aldwin and Gete?
-Of course.- Malek replied warmly. –Martouf is host to Lantash, Martouf tends to be more scientific and restrained whereas Lantash is very passionate. The two of them are valued friends, I can always rely on them to support me and my hosts through thick or thin. They will like you, very much. Martouf especially, he likes to see the good in people. Lantash will be more withdrawn but he will soon see you as the honourable, loving person you are.-
You care for them very much.
-I care for all of my brethren, Mer Prinekh. They are my brothers, my sisters. They are my family.- Malek explained. –I care for their hosts just as much. Every life is precious to me.-
What about Aldwin and Gete?
-Gete is host to Aldwin. Gete tends to be the one in control more often than Aldwin. Gete is the scientist, historian and all round scholar. He enjoys gathering knowledge and using it. Aldwin is more withdrawn but just as knowledgeable. Aldwin likes to sit back and watch and learn. He enjoys his host’s eagerness at learning and using the knowledge, but he also enjoys our chats. You see Lantash, Martouf, Gete, Aldwin, My host and I would always meet when we could and just talk about knowledge and what we learned. I guess it was our way of enjoying ourselves without having to worry about the Goa’uld. I would like to share my experiences with them when we finally reunite. Perhaps even make riding one of our past times when we have time to do it.-
I would like that. Louis thought with a smile.
Malek knew the reason why, it gave Louis a connection with Malek’s friends. The host knew he’d fell awkward meeting his two friends and wanted to make the right impression. –You do not need to make a connection, your connection to them is me. They will like you for who you are, you do not need to prove yourself.-
I just want to be able to…
-You want to be at the same level as them. Their spies and usurpers and you’re a warrior, young to them, by riding you’re all at the same level.-
Yes. Louis replied blushing at being read so well.
-They will not judge you like this Mer Prinekh. They will like you either way. In fact they might find it refreshing to have a young intelligent mind amongst them. Do not judge yourself so harshly.- Malek reassured. –They like intellectual debates and I’m sure you’ll give them a run for their money.- Malek added smugly. His host was the best out of all three of them, but Malek was biased of course.
If you’re sure.
-I’m sure.- Malek replied. –Martouf and Gete will like you straight away and once one likes you the other will like you. That is how our bond works, we share feelings. We love together and share everything together. For example, I used to be mated with Delek and his host Sebastian if I had blended with you before everything that happened, I would only continue the relationship with Delek if that was what you wanted as well.-
You would break off a relationship if your new host didn’t like your mate.
-Yes.- Malek replied. –That is how I know the others will accept you, if they like me they’ll accept you and once one has accepted you so will the other.-
What if host and symbiote disagree?
-That is very rare. But it does happen. Anise and Freya are a prime example of this, Freya likes older warrior type me but Anise likes knowledgeable younger men. This often causes disagreements between the two, they have yet to be mated.- Malek explained in amusement. –Yet they are also very defensive of each other, if Freya is upset Anise will defend her until the end. It is a rather unique bond.-
Sounds like it. Louis thought with amusement. I look forward to meeting the Tok’ra, they sound unique.
-They will be defensive at first, they won’t trust that I am who I say I am because you’re my new host and I’ve been gone so long they’ve assumed me dead. But once they accept who I am and welcome me back you will see them for who they are. Many find them emotionless but that is not true, they can be very passionate but they keep their passion to themselves in fear of it being used by their enemies.-
Will they see me as their enemy?
-Perhaps at first, after all you will be a stranger. We will be strangers but they will gradually accept us.- Malek replied. –Please do not fear, I will not allow any harm to come to us. If I feel there is a threat I will get us out of there. I promise.-
I don’t want you to fear your own people.
-You are my priority, Mer Prinekh, even the Tok’ra cannot come between us.- Malek vowed. –I will protect you from them as well as our enemies if I have to.- Louis smiled at Malek’s soft confession and relaxed into the evening routine. He sat with his friends and laughed at the television before heading to bed getting ready for the next day of riding.
The following day was similar to the first but this time Louis had Malek in control to groom, feed and tack the horse for the day’s work. Malek enjoyed being told what to do, normally he took charge, it was nice to give the authority to someone else and just obey for once in a while. Louis enjoyed ordering Malek what to do and teaching his symbiote, his confidence with the horses was impressive since Louis was not often that confident with anything else. In fact he often deferred to Malek, it was a nice change for Malek to obey Louis instead of vice versa.
Emperor seemed to know Louis was not in control but the host seemed content to accept Malek’s command. Between the horse’s obedient and gentle movements and his hosts gentle encouragement, Malek relaxed and slipped into his lessons.
It was a few days later that Louis got the call to return. It seemed that something had gone wrong and they needed Malek’s knowledge. Louis skilfully made an excuse and said his goodbyes to the horse before leaving. Malek once again found himself clinging on to his host’s spine as Louis sped down the roads racing to Stargate Command. –This way of transportation is crazy.- Malek mumbled, Louis laughed happily used to Malek’s complaints and too happy to be concerned.
Louis ignored the soldiers as he pulled into the base and parked he raced into the building and into Hammond’s office. Hammond raised an eyebrow as Malek’s host barged in. “Sir, you requested my presence.”
“Yes, son, yes I did.”
“What is this?” Louis asked as he noticed that Hammond was writing a file with images of a strange blue crystal inside. Malek was unsure what it was, but clearly it was something of importance if Hammond was writing and reading about it.
“Whilst you were on leave SG1 came across these crystals. It turned out that these were sentient crystals. They attacked O’Neill believing he wanted to destroy them and then came back through the gate. The … life-form wanted to appease O’Neill in the hopes that it would convince the Colonel not to destroy them.”
-I think I’ve heard rumour of this.- Malek thought. –Apophis apparently visited a world full of strange life-forms but when one of his Jaffa touched the crystal, it killed him. Apophis supposedly destroyed these beings and ordered that none speak of them. I thought it was just a rumour.-
Well clearly it wasn’t. Louis thought. “Is Colonel O’Neill okay?”
“O’Neill is fine, the situation was quickly resolved.” Hammond replied. “The reason I wanted you here was to speak to Malek if I may.”
“Of course.” Louis agreed amiably.
Malek mentally hugged his host as he slid forward and took control. “You wish to speak to me General?”
“Yes.” Hammond answered. “I need information and you’re the only one who may be able to answer my questions other than Teal’c.”
“May I ask where Teal’c is?” Malek asked.
“He’s currently off-world with SG1.”
“What may I help you with General?”
“Teal’c told me of a creature that can turn itself invisible at will. SG1 has gone hunting for this creature with my permission, however I would like to know what SG1 will be going up against.”
“Creatures that turn invisible at will?” Malek asked surprised, Hammond nodded in reply and sat waiting as Malek searched his memory. “Yes, I believe I know what you speak of. I remember hearing about it, Apophis supposedly found out or heard of a world where the creatures could turn invisible at will. He sent his first prime and several Jaffa to hunt for it but they returned as failures. Apophis punished them killing a few of them in his rage.”
“What do you know of these creatures?”
Malek sighed with a wry smile. “Unfortunately I cannot answer that for I do not know. What I do know is from word of mouth and whilst I know the sources are reliable, I cannot attest to the reliability of the information. I only know that these creatures can disappear in the blink of an eye.”
“Is there anything you can think of to aid them?”
“No. I can think of nothing. I can only hope they have more luck than Apophis.” Malek answered. “How is Kawalsky?”
“He’s healthy but he’s seems to be struggling with the parasite’s presence. We need to find your people and soon, Kawalsky is strong-willed and minded but against a parasite he is helpless. It is wearing him down.”
“I wish I could do more than I am doing but I cannot.” Malek replied softly. “I do not know where my people may be, it has been a long time since Ra’s ship and they would definitely have moved since then…”
“I understand, I’m just not sure how long Kawalsky can hold on for.” Hammond replied solemnly. “The sooner we find your people, the better.”
“Indeed.” Malek agreed. –I wish I knew another way to find them but all we can do is keep looking and waiting for one of my brethren to pop up.-
And we also have to worry about them trusting us.
-That won’t matter too much, Mer Prinekh, they will still help Kawalsky. But they will not trust us. At least not immediately.- Malek replied. –But as I said, that will not matter. I will keep us safe, but Kawalsky really needs help and soon. The parasite will eventually overcome the sedation as it matures. Not much can stop a parasite. I share a similar biology and I can tell you that it takes a lot to keep us out and down. Right now it is still a juvenile but as it gets older it will try to exert its strength and power.-
Then we need to find your people as soon as possible. Kawalsky doesn’t have long, does he?
-No he doesn’t. The longer it takes, the less likely it is that Kawalsky will be free.- Malek confessed. –It’s important that we find the Tok’ra. But I do not know where to look.-
Are you sure?
-They would have moved. But I suppose we could…- Whatever Malek was about to say was cut off as the gate began to dial off world. The iris closed as Hammond and Malek stood on the top floor staring down at it through the window. Malek heard the wormhole engage and silence followed. –There is no sign of those codes that Hammond set up, does that mean they’re the enemy.-
Let’s hope not.
“It’s SG1’s code.” Someone announced through the speakers. “Opening the Iris.” The large metal shield separated and disappeared from the wormhole. Seconds later the four members of SG1 stepped out of the wormhole. “Welcome back SG1. Report to the infirmary and then the briefing room.”
“I guess we’ll learn more about those invisible creatures from them now.” Malek stated.
“Yes. Let’s hope they’ve bought back good news.” Hammond replied.
Half an hour later the four team members joined Malek and Hammond. Malek smiled in greeting, bowing his head respectively to his four comrades. “Malek, I thought you were on leave.” Sam stated as they all sat.
“He was, but I called him back. I was hoping he had more Intel on what you were facing but he too had little to tell.”
“Apophis tried to cover up his failings. He doesn’t like any sign of weakness and a failure to gain new technology is a sign of weakness.” Malek answered. “I only heard rumours and so regretfully, I was of little use.”
“It is not technology.” O’Neill stated.
“What?” Hammond asked.
“It was a race of people that call themselves the Nox, sir.” Sam answered. “They have the ability to hide themselves, cities and even living creatures with just their minds. The power they displayed was incredible, sir. They could even bring people back from the dead.”
“We were killed by Apophis. All four of us were. The Nox bought us back.” O’Neill continued.
“To them we’re children.” Daniel added. “They live for hundreds of years. One stated their power came from ‘knowledge’ but they were not interested in teaching us. In fact they wanted us to leave.”
“The Nox didn’t understand the danger they were in. They didn’t want to fight.” O’Neill stated sounding very disgruntled and confused. “Even though the Goa’uld openly threatened them they still could not bring themselves to fight.”
“Not every race is a warrior race like yours, Colonel O’Neill. My race is more skilled at subterfuge and hiding then yours. We fight only when necessary. Your species likes to fight. There is not necessarily anything wrong by that. The Nox are older and wiser, O’Neill. They’ve probably survived hundreds of years avoiding the Goa’uld long before you arrived to offer aid. Whatever they’ve been doing has been working for them and that is really all that matters. You see O’Neill, unlike your race, which I may add is very young and innocent in the grand scheme of things, every other race has been in the centre of Goa’uld rule. The races out there have all learned unique methods to survive Goa’uld rule. You cannot fault them.”
“Malek is right.” Sam finally stated after a few minutes. “The Nox have probably been doing fine without our help for hundreds of years. To them our methods are primitive and ineffective, we cause death and destruction whereas they only want peace. We may not understand it but we have to accept it. That is what they’ve chosen.”
“Could you make an alliance with them?”
“I was under the impression that they wanted nothing to do with us.” O’Neill answered. “We’re too young and primitive for them.” He repeated mockingly.
“I found your primitive.” Malek stated. “I know now that you have potential but even now I wonder when that potential will show. You see O’Neill, it is not about physical power and brute force, it is more about knowledge, and knowledge is power. Some are well on their way to be very influential.” Malek looked at Sam and Daniel as he said this. “But many still have much to learn. You still look at other worlds as you would look at your own. Politics work differently there, it is not about money or whose gun is bigger, and it is about knowledge and superiority. The Goa’uld consider themselves superior because of their knowledge, very few species know how to run their ships and machinery.”
“But the Goa’uld did not make those machines.” Sam protested.
“The creators are gone. Nobody knows where they went or if their still alive. Other than them and a few other species only the Goa’uld know how to work the machines. Because of this they are respected and feared for the power they possess. And that is what makes the difference, O’Neill. People see their ‘strength’ and feel fear, whereas your people tend to go in and shoot first and ask questions later.” Sam and Daniel snickered a little at this as Malek stared pointedly at O’Neill.
“You’ve made your point.” O’Neill replied grumpily.
“I would like your report on my desk for the morning.” Hammond demanded, the four of them nodded in agreement. “Dismissed.” Malek stood and gently receded control to his host. Louis smiled at his boss before heading to follow the others. “Ferretti. I would like to continue our conversation with you in my office.” Hammond requested.
“Of course, sir.” Louis agreed following his superior into the office and taking a seat. “I do not know if I can be of any help though sir. Malek is the expert.”
-You share my memories, dear one. What I know you know. Do not sell yourself short, Mer Prinekh.- Malek told his host.
“I was wondering if you and your symbiote had any ideas where to begin looking for Malek’s brethren.” Hammond replied.
-Hmm we could check the places they used to be before I joined you, but if we continue on our presence course of action we should come across one of my brethren. We have spies everywhere.-
“Malek believes that if we continue our present course of action we may well find them. He says that this is the best option because his brethren move regularly. As enemies of the Goa’uld their hunted so tracking them will be difficult.” Louis told Hammond hoping he had not said too much, but Malek sent approving thoughts. “If we deliberately search for them we may not find them but Malek knows that eventually we will come across his brethren if we keep going as we are.”
“If he is sure.”
“He’s sure.” Louis assured.
“Very well.” Hammond replied. “I have one other thing to inform you. The president has got some free time on his hands and requests that you join him in the white house for a few hours very soon.”
-I am happy to do this if you are, Mer Prinekh. If we can get the president onside we may not have as much trouble in the future, particularly if we try to establish an alliance between my people and yours.-
I don’t mind. I think we need someone as powerful as him on our side.
-Precisely.-
“I am quite happy to meet the president.” Louis stated out loud.
“I will inform the president and arrange a date.” Hammond replied with a smile. “Would you like to continue leave or would you like to return to duty?”
What do you want to do Malek?
-I am happy with whatever you decide. Those past few days have helped us and I think we are prepared to return to duty, but it is your choice, my love.- Malek answered.
“I would like to return to duty.” Louis answered the General.
“Very well.” Hammond replied. “Report back here at 0900 tomorrow. You have much to catch up on.”
“Very well sir.”
“Dismissed.” Hammond ordered, Louis smiled at the fond look on Hammond’s face and saluted before leaving the room.
I’m glad to be back. Louis thought as he navigated the underground compound to find his room. I enjoyed the vacation but I really just want to work.
-Yes, I understand. Kawalsky’s life is in our hands and we must work tirelessly to save him, but we must also take care of ourselves. Those few short days were worth taking. We can now return to work with fresh and relaxed minds. But let us not worry of work for now. Let’s enjoy the evening of freedom before we must return to duty.-
Cafeteria?
-Yes, I think I overheard mention of a delicious chocolate cake, we must get there and take a piece for ourselves before it is all gone…- Malek replied wiggling with glee as he imagined them indulging themselves on cake. Malek was a secret ‘sweet-tooth’ which amused Louis to no end since the symbiote hated caffeine.
Silly symbiote!
-Hey!-
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