Always Forgiven, Never Forgotten | By : A.K.O.Shifting-Shadow Category: Stargate: SG-1 > Slash - Male/Male Views: 1206 -:- 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 Nine: Unexpected
Malek glanced up from the file he was reading as the base alarm went off. “What is that?” Clinton asked from next to the Tok’ra.
“That means there is an incoming traveller.”
“You mean from off-world?”
“Yes.” Malek replied. “It must be one of the off-world teams returning to Earth.”
“I would like to see the gate in action.”
“I will ask the General for permission to take you to the command room if you’d like.” Malek answered. “I am sure that the General will welcome you in the command room, however I must follow procedure and make your request to the General.” Malek explained.
“That is understandable.” Clinton replied. “Please do not stay with me on my account. Go and see what is happening, I will continue to read these files.” The man told the symbiote.
“Thank you Mr President. I will return as soon as I can.” Malek replied before respectively rushing from the room. He could feel his hosts concern, no one was due back. –Do not worry Louis if we are needed they will tell us.- Malek stated trying to comfort his host.
But what if we can’t help…
-I do not know.- Malek confessed gently. –We can only hope that we can help.- Malek added after a few moments. The symbiote raced into the control room and glanced through the ‘bullet-proof’ glass to see three of the four members of SG1. “Where is Daniel?” Malek asked.
“I do not know.” General Hammond replied as they watched a medical team race into the gate room. “I guess we’re about to find out.” Hammond commented as he led them from the command room and into the gate-room. “SG1, where is Doctor Jackson?”
“He’s… he’s dead sir.” Everyone’s faces showed the shock the statement bought them. Louis mentally shivered in horror. No…The host denied desperately. He can’t be.
“Are you sure?” Hammond asked but the three of them could not answer, they were in shock. “Get them to the infirmary!”
-Perhaps they were wrong?- Malek asked trying to give his host hope.
Then he would have come back with them. Louis replied. If only we’d been with them…The host muttered but Malek seriously doubted their presence would have made a difference. “Sir, I would like my host and I to be present at the briefing.”
“No. You need to remain with the president. Keep him informed of what has happened but ask him to keep out of the way for now… SG1 is going to be…unstable.” Hammond told Malek.
“I will do my best to accommodate the president and inform him of the circumstances.” Malek replied.
No, we have to help them. We have to go back and see if we can save Daniel!
-We cannot. Do you not remember that we need the president on our side?-
What difference does it make! I do not care, I’d rather give my life up saving Daniel then talking to the president in the knowledge that he is dying if not dead!
-You do not mean that.-
I do! I want to save him, I don’t want to play ‘making friends’ with the president!
-Mer Prinekh, listen to me, we cannot do what you ask! We do not know what we’d be racing into and Kawalsky needs us alive. We need to find the Tok’ra. We cannot throw our lives away!-
But…Malek….Please!
-I’m sorry, I wish I could do what you ask but I cannot. We must remain here and continue earning the presidents trust and seeking out the Tok’ra.- Malek replied. –We must continue as we have.-
But… how can we act like…like it never happened just to talk to the president.
-We are not acting like it has not happened, in fact I intend to tell him but we cannot leave the base to go on a rescue mission, not until we know what is going on.- Malek told his host. –We have to think carefully, someone or something overpowered SG1 and took Daniel. We do not know if he is dead we only know that he is gone. Until we know what is going on and until you calm down we can do nothing.-
I want…
-I know you want to help… but do you know how we can help? Do you know what is on the other side of the wormhole? Do you know what will be waiting for us?-
No… but…
-Then the best thing we can do is have the president onside, he is the one that makes the final decisions after all, this could be beneficial not only to us but to everyone.-
How so? How will it be beneficial to Daniel?
-If he still lives and we know of a way to save him we could have the presidents full backing to launch a rescue mission.- Malek felt his host pause at his reasoning. –Do you understand now, my love?-
Yes. But please don’t ask me to take control. I can’t face anyone right now.
-I will deal with everyone for you, Mer Prinekh.- Malek promised gently. –Let us return to the president.- He stated needlessly because that was where he had been traveling as they had talked. The secret service agents signalled for him to wait whilst they announced his presence before allowing him to enter the room. “Mr President.”
“Ah Malek. I hope the news is good.”
“Actually it is bad news, it seems we’ve lost a member of the SGC. Doctor Daniel Jackson has fallen. His team members have returned but they are in shock, Doctor Fraiser is treating them right now.”
“I’m sorry. Were you close?”
“Louis was good friends with them and I’d like to think that I have earned Daniel’s friendship.” Malek replied. “Louis is taking the loss of Daniel hard, so please excuse him if he does not speak to you today.”
He’s not lost! Louis protested.
“Of course, I understand.” Clinton replied. “Please accept my sympathy and pass my sympathy onto your host and to SG1.”
“Thank you, I will pass it on to the others. The facility is currently in an ‘uproar’, the loss of Daniel has hit us all hard. I believe your people will wish to hold ‘a funeral’ for the man. I believe Daniel would be honoured if you were present.” Malek stated.
Daniel cannot be dead!
-Perhaps not but we cannot say or do anything until we hear Jack’s, Sam’s and Teal’c’s side of the story.- Malek replied. –They will be able to tell us what happened.-
Then let’s talk to them!
-Only when Doctor Fraiser clears them.- Malek replied to his host, the symbiote focused back outward and smiled as Clinton watched them curiously. “I apologise if it appeared I was ignoring you. I was talking to my host. Louis is adamant that Daniel cannot be dead and wants to find out the truth, however we cannot until Doctor Fraiser clears them.” Malek explained.
“I’m sorry that Louis is struggling with this, in all honesty I hope he is right and Daniel is not truly dead.” Clinton replied. “How do you talk to Louis?”
“As I said before we are one. Our brains are connected whatever I think or feel he can think and feel as well, and it works vice versa. I simply have to mentally ‘talk’ to him which is simpler than it sounds.” Malek answered. “Louis can hear everything I say as he answers just as he would if he was in control but only I hear it, I can then pass it on to the person or persons we are talking to.”
“That must make it difficult when you’re trying to concentrate.”
“It can be but normally host and symbiote know each other well enough to know what the other is thinking without having to be told. Conversations can be very deep an meaningful but last only a few moments. Because we share minds we know what the other is thinking without them having to ‘talk’ to us.”
“I think I have an idea what you’re trying to explain.”
“I hope so. It can be very difficult to explain the bond between host and symbiote. It is so much more than two individuals in one body, it is as if we become one person but with two distinct personalities. The simplest and most easy explanation is that we become one. In fact that explains it all. We become one. We are one. Whilst we are two individuals we feel, touch, see, smell, hear as one.”
“I think I understand.” Clinton murmured. “So Louis grieves for Daniel and because he grieves you share his grief.”
“Yes, I feel Louis’s grief but I also feel my own. Louis feels my grief as well as his own, we share as one.” Malek replied. “I wish I could make it easier for your people to understand, if I could perhaps potential hosts won’t be put off by our natural form. I wish I could tell you how… how great being blended with a symbiote is. It is unbreakable and irreplaceable. Many who lose their symbiotes are never the same because they lose a part of themselves. They do not feel whole, they feel incomplete.” Malek tried to explain but he could find no words to express how he felt.
Let me try to explain.
-Are you sure?-
I’m sure. He needs to hear it from me. Hopefully hearing from the host will help the president understand.
-Very well, Mer Prinekh.- Malek agreed before bowing their shared head, he receded into his own mind allowing Louis could take control. “I hope I can explain this better.” Louis stated. “When I first joined with Malek, it was hell. I contemplated suicide just to get rid of him, I saw him as nothing but a parasite. If I had known, if I had talked to his previous host I may have had an understanding. Perhaps I would not have become a willing host but I would still have understood Malek better. As it was I hated him, but he never did anything to harm or upset me, in fact quite the opposite.”
“So Malek was your enemy at first?”
“At first. Malek was respectful to me but he would sometimes poke around my mind to understand what was happening. I didn’t like it at first but Malek willing showed me his mind. After a while I accessed his a little easier and I gradually learnt about him and his people. He was willing to die rather than remain inside of me. But I had learnt by then that he had saved my life at the cost of his previous host. I chose to carry him until he could find his people. However he dumped a shocker onto me. I couldn’t just carry him, eventually he would instinctually blend with me. Either he dies or I blend with him or allow him to blend with someone else. The third option was unthinkable, no sane person would have accepted him, but I could not allow him to die. I was hesitant to blend with him but he said that there was a dangerous procedure that could have him removed when we found the Tok’ra. With the knowledge that even if we blended I could get rid of him, I chose to blend.”
“So you weren’t really receptive of him at first, you wanted him gone?”
“Yes. I wanted him gone.” Louis confirmed. “However after the blending everything changed. Like Malek told you, we became one. Our minds became linked and I saw him for what and who he was and I could not hate him. How could I hate a creature that would kill itself just because its own basic instincts required a host. Over time I learnt more and more about him, and he about me. He helped us wherever he could and saved many of our people’s lives. Now… he is me and I am him. We are one and the same and even though I remember and know exactly how I felt about him before I cannot ever part from him. I do not want to. He is very, very important to me and I am important to him. He loves me and I him.”
“I can’t even begin to completely understand the depth of love you hold for each other, but listening to your words I can tell you adore each other. I don’t think you’re a threat to Earth because Malek would not harm your people, because it would upset you and he would never want that.”
“Yes that is true. Malek values my happiness and health above all else, he would never do anything that would upset me.” Louis told the president. “I admit he saw us as primitive in the beginning, but over time he has come to value our race and see that we have a great potential.” Louis told the president. “He has learnt to value us and he will speak on our behalf for all aliens that will listen.”
“So even though his initial joining with you could be classed as an invasion, we have truly earned ourselves a great friend and a powerful ally.” Clinton stated. “If it was not for Malek, Major Kawalsky, who had become a host, would have done untold damage to the SGC and perhaps in the process would have died. Thanks to Malek he was quickly taken into custody and the parasite was forbidden possession of Kawalsky. It seems to me that the SGC and perhaps this planet is indebted to the symbiote inside of you.”
-No. They owe me nothing.- Malek answered.
“Malek is adamant that we owe him nothing but I believe he does deserve the respect of the people he’s protecting.”
“He does. I have already forbidden the NID from kidnapping, holding and experimenting on you or Malek. He is to be treated as a diplomat from an alien race and I have instructed that you, as his host, be treated with the same respect.”
“I’m honoured that you have chosen to extend your protection to me.”
“And I’m honoured that Malek has chosen to represent us on your off-world missions. I hope that with him on our side we will gain many friends, including his people.” Clinton replied with a friendly smile.
-Tell him that I am honoured by his understanding and acceptance of me.-
“Malek wishes for me to tell you how honoured he is that you’ve accepted him as he is. From Malek’s memories and mind I know such friendly understanding and acceptance is not common from the people they meet. Often their met with hatred or fearful respect. I know that it overwhelmed Malek when the SGC began including them in their missions and everyday life.”
“I’m glad he feels welcome.”
“Well he wasn’t welcomed at first and I was ostracised for being his host. There are still people who dislike and are wary of me and him, but overall the reception we’ve had has been friendly and accepting.” Louis told them.
“That is good to know, would my speaking to the rest of the SGC staff end any hostility between you and them?”
Would it?
-No, I do not think so, these people have made up their minds and not even the president’s words will change their minds.-
“Malek says your words won’t change it.” Louis told the president. “These people have made up their minds. They see Malek as a parasite and no matter what anyone says, they will still see Malek as a parasite.” Clinton frowned at this but said no more.
Getting the president on our side has been successful. Louis thought.
-Yes, the man has been surprisingly compassionate towards us. I’m pleased that it has been so successful, I’ve found myself growing more fond of your president.- Malek replied.
Yes, I’ve never met him before, I’ve always had the idea that the president was withdrawn, powerful but that is not the case at all. Louis stated his ‘voice’ filled with surprise.
-We are very fortunate that Bill Clinton has been so receptive to us. Hopefully his respect for us will aid us in the future.- Malek added as an afterthought. –Spend some time with him, my beloved host. He may help you if Daniel is indeed still alive. With his support we can go far.-
It is not just about power.
-No it isn’t. But unfortunately without power behind us we would have been in a lab being experimented on. We need the man’s support. We need as much support as we can get.- Malek told his host.
Alright.
-I will be here if you need me.- Malek promised. –When the time comes we will be one of the first to know what has happened. As the president, Bill Clinton has top priority. They will tell him and because we are with him, he will tell us.-
If you’re sure.
-I am sure. Trust me, my love. We will find out what has happened.- Malek reassured his host.
“I’m sorry. We’re ignoring you again.” Louis stated as he noticed the president watching them with amusement not at all offended. “Malek was just assuring me that I would be one of the first to find out what happened to Daniel.”
“You worry about him?”
“Yes he is a good friend. When the base turned against me because of Malek he and the rest of SG1 stuck by me and tried to learn more about Malek, they set the path that taught the rest of the SGC that I was still trustworthy and Malek was trustworthy. If it was not for them, I’d probably still be an outcast.”
-You know they would not have hated you forever, Mer Prinekh.-
They would have. Louis replied adamantly. Some still do.
-Some not all.-
Some is more than enough…Louis replied sadly. “Are there any more questions you’d like to ask, Mr President? Or perhaps a tour?”
“Hmm. I think I’ve asked many of the questions I’ve needed to ask. But I suppose a question I’d like to ask is how you two get along? I know you adore each other by how you talk about each other? But how do you work together?”
“Well…”
-Tell them of our horse-riding, which is a perfect example of how each of us took control and how you taught me how to ride. Depicting me as a person eager to learn will allow the President to see me more as an individual and a person rather than an alien entity.-
“Well. I suppose a good example is my favourite past-time. I’m a skilled horse rider, I used to teach cadets how to ride before I joined the stargate programme. Malek however has never ridden and never tried. I let him take control to ride the horse. I taught Malek how to ride and my symbiote enjoyed the experience and has told me that he’d definitely do it again if we ever for the opportunity. I taught the symbiote how to ride and the symbiote taught me to just enjoy the experience.” Louis told the president. “Every time we go through the gate, I’m often in control but Malek teaches me everything, points out everything of value. Our experiences together have always been… fulfilling and enjoyable.”
“So you teach each other and learn together.”
“Yes.” Louis replied. “I’ve learnt much from him and I believe he has learnt much from me and the rest of us.”
-I have.- Malek confirmed gently.
“So your symbiote enjoys riding?”
-I enjoy sharing the experience with you, my host.-
“Malek tells me that he enjoys the experience of sharing with me.” Louis told the president. “In fact he would like to share the experience with his friends too. A few of his friends, or rather the hosts he is friends with used to ride before they became Tok’ra, they would appreciate the opportunity to ride again and Malek would like to share it with them. However I know that may not be possible because they will be aliens on the surface of Earth.”
“It is something we could consider, perhaps we could have an on base holiday park depending on what the Tok’ra desire. But we will have to decide that after the alliance, if we do not establish an alliance between the Tok’ra and ourselves that would be a waste of time, unfortunately. However if an alliance is made I am sure that the government will want to meet the needs of any visiting dignitaries.” Clinton replied with a smile.
-Smart.-
What do you mean?
-First of all he is not setting anything in stone. He’s suggesting it can be done to encourage us to establish the alliance we’ve been speaking of. He is all suggesting that the government will bend over backwards for our friends if they get something in return. Now we just have to get this alliance right so all parties are happy.-
What do you suggest?
-If the Tok’ra need hosts, we have to give something in return for the human lives we will take.- Malek explained. –Such as knowledge of the Goa’uld threats and perhaps even technology. Though the Tok’ra will be wary at first, we need to encourage them that this alliance is beneficial. However you could also ride a horse on another planet with them as well, but I think it would be nicer and more beneficial if my people came here and shared with the humans…-
So we try to convince them to share with us?
-You are Tok’ra, my beloved, but you are also human. You as Tok’ra must convince other Tok’ra to share with the humans.-
“Malek would like to support the alliance and is hoping for its success. However we cannot set anything into motion ourselves because even though Malek is a high ranking Tok’ra he has to answer to the others.” Louis told the president.
-Well done, my host. We’ve told him we’ll try without actually guaranteeing a thing.- Malek stated with pride.
A knock on the door had them both pausing and glancing at another. The president’s agents knocked on the door announcing General Hammond. “Let him in.” The president instructed. The man stepped into the room. “George. Welcome! Please take a seat.”
“Of course sir.” Hammond replied taking a seat next to Louis. “I’m here to ask a favour.”
“What would you like George?” Clinton asked warmly.
“I was wondering if you would be present for Doctor Jackson’s funeral.”
“How do you know he’s dead?” Louis asked.
“SG1 told me, son. Daniel died in fire. They tried to save him but the ground burst into fire, they had to run and dive into the water. When they emerged Daniel was gone.” Hammond told them.
No…
-Louis….- Malek tried but Louis was very upset. –Let me take control.- Louis happily gave control over leaving Malek to deal with the conversation. “My host adamantly believes Daniel is not dead.” Malek told them. “He is finding it difficult to accept what you’re saying.”
“I understand.” Hammond replied gently.
“I will be honoured to speak at Daniel’s funeral.” Clinton stated. “We have been speaking of SG1 and Doctor Jackson, I believe I’ve come to an understanding about what the team is about.”
“They are one of the best teams in the SGC. The loss of Doctor Jackson is a devastating blow to the SGC.” Hammond stated. “I hope you don’t mind Mr President, but this is awful news, would it be alright if Malek and Louis left their duty for a short period of time.”
“It is alright. I will remain here for this evening, I have no need to leave this room as I have all I acquire here.” Clinton replied. “I hope you and your host will be better tomorrow.” He told Malek.
“I am sure that once Louis has had time to adjust to what has happened he will be fine. We will report for duty tomorrow at 0800.” Malek replied before standing. “Good evening Mr President, General Hammond.” Malek stated as a farewell before leaving the room.
I can’t believe it! How could it have happened?
-It was fire, no one could have saved him Mer Prinekh. He is lost to us.-
But surely our teammates would have been aware of the danger!
-Yes, but it may have taken them unawares.- Malek told his host. –Come now, we both knew it was inevitable. We’ve already lost so many.-
But Daniel…
-Daniel was invaluable but even he knew he could potentially die every time he steps through the gate.- Malek told his host gently. –Every time we go through the gate we have no idea what is waiting for us. There is always a risk of something bad happening.- The host did not respond and Malek did not expect him to, instead the symbiote took them to their private chambers preparing them for bed. Hopefully in the morning Louis would be more calmer.
The next morning did not make Louis calmer, in fact quite the opposite. Daniel’s memorial would be on this day, everyone was required to appear in full uniform which meant Louis had all the time to think of what could have been as he dressed. Nothing Malek could say would make it better. Nothing. Louis was angry at not having been there and upset at losing someone who he considered to be a close friend.
At 0800 Louis appeared at the president’s quarters and acted with smiles and laughter yet they all knew he was upset. Still the president remained accommodating and happily followed the subdued host to the memorial in the gate room. Louis took his place once he was sure the president was in his.
The ceremony was rather beautiful and yet sombre, or so Malek thought. The words that all parties spoke, the way the president expressed his sorrow and sympathy for Daniel and to those who had been Daniel’s friends. Malek was not quite sure about the purpose of the flag and Louis did not feel like telling him currently. Instead of nosing around his hosts mind Malek chose to ‘enjoy’ the ceremony and remember the good things about Daniel. Louis appreciated Malek’s memories even though they saddened him.
Everyone close to Daniel agreed to go to Jack’s place where they could celebrate Daniel’s life in what the human’s called a ‘wake’. Malek encouraged Louis to join them and share in the celebration of his friend’s life. Malek remained back and let his host grief with his friends, but he mentally spoke a pray asking whoever was listening to accept Daniel into their arms in the after-life.
Malek! Louis called out. Malek looked through his host’s eyes to see what the problem was. Louis was watching Jack who had been pouring a beer into a glass but the liquid was pouring over the rim where he had not stopped. Jack’s eyes were staring at the liquid without truly seeing. What is going on?
-I do not know.- Malek replied. –It could be shock…-
Didn’t he suffer that already?
-Yes but sometimes people go back into shock when the realisation of a lost one hits them again.-
What else could cause that?
-Hmm. I suppose it could be… he could be recalling a memory, like Daniel’s death.- Malek continued. –Or it could be that the liquid is inducing some sort of recall or mental break-down.-
So their reliving Daniel’s death?
-It looks like it may be an option…- Malek replied. –But I cannot be sure. I am after all in your head, not theirs.-
What do we do?
-Be there for them.- Malek told his host. –They will need their friends more than ever and you will need you friends, now more than ever. Go to them.- Louis obediently stood and approached them just as Jack snapped out of his induced memory but the older man just shook it off and carried on as if nothing happened.
Malek was a bit confused when Hammond wanted to send them into another mission so soon after their loss but Doctor Fraiser quickly talked the man out of his decision. Her argument proved wise when the next day the three of them rushed into the gate room and then admitted that they expected Daniel to come through it.
“Tell me what is going on? Is Daniel dead or not?” Hammond demanded in front of the president and his agents angry and clearly frustrated.
“That is what we’d like to know.” The president stated.
“He’s definitely dead sir. But at the same time I know he’s still alive.” Sam stated, but her statement only confused all of her audience including Teal’c and Jack who agreed with her. Daniel was both dead and alive to them which was not possible.
-I am sorry Mer Prinekh, you were right.-
No it was understandable why you would believe him dead.
-How did you know?-
I didn’t I just couldn’t accept it.
-We gave up on him but you kept on hoping. I’m so sorry.- Malek replied angry at himself for just dismissing his host’s beliefs. –Forgive me.-
I forgive you. Louis replied honestly. But what can we do to help.
-Go back to the planet.-
But we need to remain with the president.
-Then we need the others to go back and find out what happened.-
But their adamant not to go back.
-Programming. Their programmed to not return, the thought of returning causes pain.- Malek responded. –General Hammond and Doctor Fraiser will get to the bottom of this. Until then we make the presidents stay as happy and as comfortable as possible.-
“Mr President, would you like to visit the lab where all our discoveries have been made? There is many different languages and artefacts that Malek and I will be happy to show and explain to you.” Louis informed the man. The president bowed his head in acceptance and signalled for Louis to lead him from the room. Louis obediently did so telling the president about all the cultures they came across and knew of. The president listened fascinated as Malek and Louis switched control and told their tales and just for a short while the worry for Daniel vanished under excitement and curiosity.
The reality of the situation came crashing down hard on them as they gathered in the command room not hours later. The three members of SG1 walked through the wormhole and Louis could only wonder what was on the other side. Everyone waited with baited breath, some paced in frustration and desperation waiting for any sign that Daniel still lived. When the gate began to dial everyone tensed, their hearts pounded waiting. The iris closed and then opened as SG1’s gate code came through. The slowly one…two…three…FOUR people came back through. He’s alive! Louis cried out and everyone let out relieved breaths.
-He looks well too…- Malek commented, pleased. –I’m sorry I doubted that he would survive. Daniel is a fighter. I should have known that.-
We all should have known, but when Jack told us he died we thought he had. Jack would never leave a man behind… Louis thought in reply. I’m just glad we were all wrong.
After that everything else went smoothly. The president was impressed by the SGC and the loyalty they showed for each other, he complimented the service they did for their country and for each other and blessed them, thanking them for what they had been doing. He even went so far as to commend Louis and Malek for their loyalty to the SGC and Earth and stating they were welcome on Earth whenever they wished. Louis had blushed under everyone’s gazes and Malek had wiggled in pleasure and happiness. Louis had smiled for many days after, his smile was contagious and many smiled with him.
I wonder when we will return to duty. Louis thought some days later. There hasn’t been much gate travel for the past few days.
-I think it is because everyone is having a well-deserved break.- Malek replied with warmth. –I think many have needed a vacation.-
I would like to get back to duty.
-Let us find Daniel and Sam, perhaps they have something for us to do.- Malek instructed, his ‘voice’ filled with amused fondness. Louis smiled and immediately turned to head to the briefing room where he figured that at least O’Neill would be there. In fact only General Hammond was there with a team of only three members. “Ferretti!” Hammond greeted.
“General Hammond, I apologise for interrupting.” Louis replied.
“Actually you have perfect timing.” Hammond told host and symbiote. “SG7 here has no commanding officer. We currently have no replacement for their CO but I’m hoping you won’t mind taking their CO’s place temporarily until I find someone.”
“I do not mind.” Louis replied happily. “May I take a seat?”
“Please do.” Hammond stated pointing to a seat next to a ginger haired man who smiled to Louis. “Gentlemen, this is Louis Ferretti who is also host to Malek. I hope that will not be a problem.”
“No sir.” The ginger haired man stated. The others soon made similar sounds of agreement and stared at Louis with open curiosity.
“Ferretti, this is Adrian Matthews.” Hammond told Louis pointing to the ginger haired man. The two men exchanged quick greetings before Hammond continued. “He’s going to be your resident archaeologist and doctor.” Hammond informed Louis. “The other two members of your team are Charles Andrews and Gavin Tracy, both who will be armed support.” At Charles Andrews a man of Chinese descent nodded his head and the remaining blonde haired man bowed his head at Gavin Tracy. “SG7 this is Louis Ferretti your current commanding officer and he is also Malek who is knowledgeable about the Goa’uld and hopefully many other cultures.”
“It’s a pleasure.” Louis stated with a smile.
“Ferretti, we have recently got in contact with an alien civilisation that seems based in the Greek ages. Several men dressed in clothing similar to that of ancient Greece had been in contact via the MALP and have invited us to visit their world. You and your team are to go in, assess the danger and gather knowledge about their race. If you can, find out about their technology and negotiate for anything you can get.”
“Of course.”
“Ferretti, I do not know how these people will react to Malek so I would suggest Malek lay low for the mission.”
“Of course, sir.” Louis replied. “We’ll be ready to go through the gate as soon as possible.” He stated.
“You have a go for the mission, your scheduled to leave in half an hour, prepare yourselves and be in the embarkation room in time.” Hammond ordered.
“Yes sir!”
Louis led his men from the room and to the changing room. “Right. I do not know how you’ve worked as a team before and I’m sure what I’m about to tell you, you already know and do.” Louis told them as they began to change. “When we step through the gate we immediately scan our surroundings and secure the area. Our hosts may already be waiting for us on the other side so do not raise weapons threateningly if there is no need.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Now as far as I’m aware they speak perfect English, so hopefully we will not need to learn the Greek language. Matthews do you know any Greek?”
“I know some sir, but I don’t think it will be enough to hold a conversation.”
“Even the smallest amount of knowledge may help us in the future.” Louis told the man. “We are invited onto their planet and so we are there on their terms. We will need to keep them happy.” Louis told them. “So any cultural requests they ask of us, if we cannot avoid them without insulting them we will have to abide by that culture.”
“I hope they don’t want us to dress in a Toga.” Tracy murmured with amusement as he checked his weapon before cocking it. “I’m ready.”
“Alright then boys. Let’s see if we can make some more friends.” Louis stated with amusement before leading the men from the room. They entered the gate room and Louis waved at Hammond and gave the man the thumbs up. The gate began to dial and Malek wiggled with eagerness just as happy as his host to finally return to duty.
“SG7 You have a go!” Hammond called out. The four men raced through the gate as soon as the older man had said the words. Louis immediately took in the gathered men, the grand looking pillars and thriving plant life. Out of the corner of his eye, they watched Matthews head to the DHD, making sure it was workable whilst Tracy and Andrews scanned their hosts.
“Lower your weapons.” Louis snapped an order when he noticed Tracy and Andrew’s weapons were up. The two men immediately obeyed as Louis holstered his weapon. And stepped down off the path leading to the gate as it disengaged. “Greetings, I’m Major Louis Ferretti, this is Adrian Matthews, Gavin Tracy and Charles Andrews.” Louis stated as he approached the gathered men with his comrades flanking him.
“Greetings.” An elderly man replied. Elderly was perhaps the wrong word, the man whilst clearly greying was not weak. His flimsy toga did not hide his rippling biceps and strong body. In fact all the men gather had strong, masculine bodies that many women would die for. Their hair was dark and their skin was golden. The man before them was clearly a dark haired man with greying sides, his face had some wrinkles, but was golden and surprisingly healthy looking. His clothing was dark blue with golden lining, he was clearly a high ranking individual. “I am Feodore, which means the gift of God. Behind me are my colleagues and loyal friends, Damon, Paris, Theon and Yannis.”
“It is a pleasure.” Louis replied.
“The pleasure is ours.” Feodore replied.
-Did he just purr at us?- Malek asked amused.
I’m not going to answer that. Louis mentally glared at his symbiote who was sniggering as he pointed out how ‘handsome’ the men were. Behave yourself, Malek!
“Please, follow us and enjoy the hospitality we offer. We’d like to know more about your people.” The one named ‘Theon’ stated.
“And we would like to know more about yours.” Matthews replied with a friendly smile. The Greek men smiled and led the way away from the stargate and towards the rather quaint town that was settled on the side of a grand mountain. Matthews was really excited and eager yammering on to them about the Ancient Greeks and their connection to this Greek based civilisation. “Wow, these drawings are almost exactly the same to those we’ve found in Greece! They mostly depict men. Absolutely fascinating!”
“And what is so fascinating about the men in the drawings?” Andrews asked with a sigh.
“In Ancient Greece Homosexuality was common. In fact in some cultures it was considered spiritualistic. In Greece older men would take younger noble men in as their apprentices, they would often have a relationship until the younger man became a man.” Matthews told them. Andrews and Tracy looked distinctly uncomfortable. Malek sniggered at their discomfort. “In fact I’ve seen very few woman so I don’t think it would be too much of a wild guess to say that the majority of their population favour homosexuality until their old enough to pro-create.”
“Why would they stop then?”
“Because they believed when a boy became a man he became powerful and assertive. No man will ‘submit’ to a dominate partner because it is seen as losing respect, being mocked and losing power as well as a knock to their manliness.” Matthews replied. “Any man that submitted was seen as weak… no man would submit they only dominate. Slaves, women and young men were seen as submissive. Only the young men became respected once they came of age, the women and slaves remained submissive no matter if they were full grown and or male.”
“Sounds rather…”
“Tracy.” Louis snapped knowing the man would say something that would be taken as an insult by their hosts who were listening to their conversation.
“Sorry sir.” Tracy replied though his voice clearly indicated what he thought of their new gay friends. Louis glared at the man and Tracy slowed so as not to face Louis’s wrath.
“You must forgive my subordinate. But relations between two men are viewed differently on our world.” Louis politely told their hosts.
“Is it…” Damon asked hesitating obviously trying to find the right word.
“Almost all religions on our planet today claim that same-sex love is an evil act and should be forbidden.” Matthews told them. “However it is not viewed as ‘evil’ or ‘forbidden’ by all.”
“And what do you think of homosexuality?” Feodore asked.
“I have no interest in it, but I have some friends who are homosexual.” Matthews replied. “I’m accepting of it but not interested.”
Louis noticed them looking to him so carefully thought about what he should say. Perhaps…
-You are not adverse to it.- Malek replied. –I suppose you could class me as bi-sexual.-
Hmm. Louis thought before finally speaking. “I’m, I used to dislike the thought but I have a ‘close’ friend who is open to both genders, I’ve since been more accepting of it.”
“We are not interested.” Tracy and Andrews chimed when their hosts glanced at them.
“I hope this does not offend you.” Matthews stated.
“Not at all.” Feodore replied warmly as they entered a building. Inside were grand statues and many brightly coloured fabrics placed upon seats and even the floor. Their five Greek host’s pointed to seats as they took their own and Louis took the lead graciously taking a seat near the self appointed leader, Feodore. “Our culture is similar but also vastly different from your ‘Ancient Greeks’. For us homosexuality is a choice and we do not judge the men that submit to a dominant man. It is common to have same sex marriages here.” Feodore told them. Matthews leaned forward listening keenly. “We do not look upon the ‘submissive’ men as weaker, though the ‘dominants’ do like to protect their husbands and make them as humanly happy as possible. In fact Theon here is what you would call a ‘submissive’, he is a scholar and also a warrior, and his husband is a warrior. Even though Theon is submissive we respect him as the powerful individual he is.”
-They seem to be a very understanding an accepting culture, but I believe they’d be formidable in battle if their physique is anything to go by.- Malek told his host.
I believe so too. Let’s hope we do not get on the wrong side of them.
-I doubt so, they seem appreciative of us.- Malek stated with a ‘smirk’. Louis sighed at Malek’s antics.
“You are one of the Gods.” Louis flinched and glanced at who had spoken. ‘Paris’ was staring at them with bright green eyes filled with curiosity. Malek twitched unsure how this would unfold. “You are one of the false Gods.” Paris stated.
-Tell them I am not a God.-
“I am not a God.” Louis told them. “I do not understand what gave you that idea.”
“I saw something move beneath your skin. Our legends speak of false Gods, whose skin on the back of the neck moved. Something moved beneath your skin, it was almost un-noticeable but I have very good eye-sight.” Paris told them. “You have one of the demons inside of you.” Instead of tensing at this, the Greek’s seemed to lean forward waiting for Louis’s reply.
“I… I do have a being inside me, but he is no demon or God. He is in fact a creature that relies on another to live. He is a part of me and I assure you he will harm none of you.” Louis vowed.
“So this ‘creature’ is a he? And it, he needs you to survive. That does not sound like the demons of legend.” ‘Yannis’ stated.
“No it does not.” Feodore replied. “Please tell us more, be assured that as long as the creature inside makes no harmful moves we will not harm you or him.”
-Thank them for their kindness.- Malek stated. –Tell them I will not take control or speak as long as I have no need to defend you. You are welcome to tell them my name, it will do no harm.-
“My ‘creature’ is named Malek and he is thankful for your kindness. He has promised not to take control as long as he has no need to defend me.” Louis told them. “Malek is a symbiote, when he joins with a host he shares all he is with them. He is not like the demons in your history. They are called the Goa’uld and they are parasites, who take what they want with no care for who they harm along their way. Their hosts are imprisoned in their own minds and often tortured by the parasites. Malek being a symbiote never harms his hosts and never intends to.” Louis added.
“The Goa’uld?” Paris answered. “Yes.. I believe I’ve seen a word of similar pronunciation somewhere before.”
“It is likely you have.” Louis answered. “I cannot be certain but what I can tell you is that there is a high probability your people originated on my people’s world. The Goa’uld took many humans from many different cultures and bought them to other planets as slaves. Cultures like yours are now free but many still live in servitude to the Goa’uld. My people and Malek’s have chosen to fight the Goa’uld to free the people from their enslavement.”
“That is a noble cause.” Damon stated with what could have been pride. “If our alliance is to hold, your enemy would be our enemy. May we know more?”
“You say Malek can take control? May we witness this?” Feodore asked.
“It might be a good idea sir.” Matthews told Louis. “It proves that Malek intends no harm if he were to come forth and answer their questions for himself.”
Louis sighed. “Alright, but it will be weird at first, because it will appear you are talking to me, the only difference will be my behaviour and my voice.” He warned, the men nodded in acceptance.
-Are you sure this is a good idea?-
We have to comply. Louis thought. If we want this alliance to be successful we need to take a leap of faith.
-Alright.- Malek agreed uncertainly as he took control. “You wish to speak to me.” Malek stated and mentally sniggered as he watched the Greek’s reactions. One seemed to hide himself, or rather his lower half, two lent forward and only two seemed to flinch at his voice.
“You are Malek.”
“In a way, yes, you do not actually see me but you are speaking to me and I directly to you.” Malek answered.
“Tell me about your kind.”
“Louis has told you of my kind. We are symbiotes who join and share with our hosts. Host and symbiote become one. We share all and we will protect each other.”
“You will need not protect each other here, we will not harm you.” Feodore vowed. “However I am wondering what we could offer to aid in your fight against the Goa’uld, we are but simple people who fight with swords, shields, daggers, bows, arrows and words.”
“You have much to offer. You could offer medicines and knowledge.” Malek replied. “Whatever you can offer to us would be gratefully appreciated. In return we will aid you with medicines, knowledge and even regular visits between our worlds to work together.”
“We do have some very good medicines, some that numb the pain and some that speed the rate of healing.” Yannis stated. “It would do us no harm to give them what they ask.”
“I would like for our people to work together in the future.” Feodore stated with a smile. “We have much to learn from each other.”
“Yes we do. Not many races have been as kind and as accepting as yours, yet I can tell you are powerful men. Perhaps you can teach my host’s people wisdom.” Malek told them. Hey! Louis cried out alongside the three other members of SG1. The Greek’s chuckled in amusement and even Malek let out a small laugh. “Tell me, how is it you have greeted us so well?”
“Well if you were enemy we would have destroyed you easily, we have sentinels posted all around the great portal who could have easily killed you if need be. Your postures however spoke of wary travellers and the fact you lowered and holstered your weapons spoke of great trust in us. You earned our respect through these actions.”
I never noticed the sentinels.
-Neither did I.- Malek replied. –They must have been archers posted a fair distance from the chaapa’ai, either that or they somehow disguise themselves and their scent.-
“It is good to know that we earned your respect, my host and I never noticed these sentinels you spoke of.”
“They are well disguised.” Paris replied vaguely. “How will the alliance be made?”
Louis took control once more. “I am not qualified to start the alliance, I am only to make contact and speak of a potential alliance before passing onto my superiors.” He told them. “If you do not mind. I will send Mathews and Tracy back to the gate to inform our superiors of our success and our suggestion that negotiations start immediately.”
“We will escort them.” Paris said as he and Yannis stood.
“Very well.” Feodore replied. “And whilst they are gone would you like a tour of our humble home town.”
“It would be a pleasure.” Louis replied as Andrews nodded his agreement. The two of them stood and followed their hosts back out of the building. Malek watched as they were greeted by the inhabitants without fear, many offered the two humans freebies and gifts in a gesture of friendship. Malek encouraged his host to try some and analysed the contents of any food and drink as Louis consumed them. I like their food.
-So do I, it is very tasteful and yet healthy, I suggest we ask if the alliance will include food and drink…- Malek stated with humour.
We could ask if we could take some of their plants home with us… Louis replied thoughtfully. But we do not know what these plants require to grow or how they grow. We do not want them to invade our world and kill off our own plants.
-True. Still if the alliance we’re trying to initiate is successful we can negotiate for a regular supply of food, drink and even clothing.- Malek told his host.
“It seems that your mission is over before it has even started.” Feodore stated.
“I must admit that I expected it to be more difficult than it was.” Louis answered. “Your acceptance of us without question was startling but also appreciated. I still find it difficult to believe that you trusted us so quickly, though as I’ve said it is appreciated.”
“Hmm, you must not get many welcoming parties.”
“Normally we are met with weapons and harsh words.” Louis replied. “This has actually been a good experience.”
“I’m glad to know this.” Feodore replied. “Perhaps, since you have no more work to do, you will indulge in our hospitality. We have many plays and musicals to watch, we have great public baths and we are renowned for our knowledge.”
“I would like to learn more of your knowledge and to try more of your food.” Louis admitted with a nervous smile as Feodore seemed to step into their private space.
“I would be honoured if you’d accompany me.” Feodore all but purred, his face surprisingly close to Louis’s.
“But what of Malek?”
“You told me he is part of you, When I said you I meant your silent companion as well.” Feodore replied not at all put off by the fact that the one he was trying flirt with was also a host.
-This guy is very… unbiased. Is he not?- Malek stated with humour.
Malek!
-What?-
Can you help me here?
-I have vast knowledge of relationships and intimate acts if you want to…-
Not that! Can you help me stop him flirting?
-Why would I do that?-
Malek!
“Sir!” Louis stepped back away from the Greek and glanced towards Matthews. “Sir!”
“Yes, Matthews. What did General Hammond say?”
“He was… different sir.”
“Different how?”
“I do not know sir, all I can tell you is that he did not seem himself.”
Louis felt his eyebrow rise involuntary. “How so?”
“He seemed distant.” Matthews replied.
Louis sighed. Looks like we need to head back.
-Whatever took the General and made him ‘distant’ may still be present. It would be a wise precaution to remain off-world until the problem is resolved.-
We do not know what the problem is! There could be no problem.
-If there is no problem there will be no harm in staying. If there is a problem you are protecting the lives of your men by remaining in a safe location. We can monitor the situation by keeping in regular contact with General Hammond and the SGC.-
But..
-You have to think about the lives of your men. If we go back, it will have to be you and I, not the others. I can eliminate many threats to us so if it is a threat of some kind or another we will be immune, they will not.-
I cannot leave them behind.
-Then stay with them as their leader and keep them safe.- Malek told his host. –I’m sure that the Greek’s will welcome us with open arms and what better way to start an alliance, with them shielding and protecting us and our team from whatever is happening at home-base.-
But if we can help?
-Go back to the gate get back in contact with General Hammond, find out what is happening. We’ll work out where to go from there.-
“It appears we may have to put our holiday on hold.” Louis told Feodore. “I must get back to the stargate and re-contact the SGC. I need to find out what is going on and judge the situation.”
“Of course, we will escort you.” Feodore replied.
“Tell me everything that happened.” Louis ordered Matthews as the large group raced towards the gate. Matthews obeyed, telling him of how distant Hammond was behaving, as if he was drugged. Matthews then mentioned an unknown female voice, ordering their team back to Earth. “So let me get this right. This woman said. “We order you to come to us through the chaapa’ai?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Who speaks like that?”
-Some Goa’uld do, Mer Prinekh.-
But there should be no Goa’uld’s on Earth.
-Actually many Goa’uld vanish from history when the Goa’uld leave Earth, it is very likely they were imprisoned or chose to remain on Earth.-
But that means…
-That the SGC is taken over by a Goa’uld. The most likely Goa’uld would be ‘Hathor’. She had the ability to make men succumb to her will. If the three human males of our team were to travel through the gate she will take control of them, only you and I can return.-
We can’t leave our men, we need to take out Hathor.
-Let’s see if we can get through to Sam, Hathor cannot control the women. It is more than likely she and Teal’c along with the women of the base are fighting back. We’ll go through only if we know we can help them.-
So we need to see if we can get through to Sam.
-Yes.- Malek told his host as they reached the MALP.
“Matthews dial the gate.” Louis called out. The humans barely noticed as the Greek’s watched them fascinatedly. Matthews dialled the gate as Andrews and Tracy took guard positions. Louis bent down to the camera and set up the Link. “This is Major Ferretti calling the SGC.”
“Major Ferretti!”
“Sam! Tell me what is going on!”
“A Goa’uld has invaded the SGC. She’s got the men under some kind of spell.”
“Hathor!”
“Yes, Hathor! How did you know?”
“Malek guessed.” Louis replied. “Do you need us on base?”
“No, I don’t think that’s a good idea. It could just give her more men to fight for her on her behalf.” Sam told him. “Remain there, if we not back in contact with you in four hours you will know we’ve failed.”
“If you do not contact us in four hours…”
“If Hathor knows how to use the Iris you’ll all die. If I do not contact you myself in four hours you are to remain on the planet.”
“We’ll be stranded here. Let us through now and we’ll help.”
“No. That’s not a good idea.”
“Let me through, Malek makes me immune to her control.”
“You need to remain with your men, Major. I’ll be in contact.” Sam replied as she shut off her side of the link. The wormhole cut off stranding SG7 off world.
“Shit!” Andrews shouted angrily. “You’ve got to be kidding me!”
“Andrews!” Louis snapped. “Matthews do not dial the gate.” He ordered as Matthews went to press the buttons. “We’ll give Carter her four hours.”
“But sir.” Louis glared at the man making the man go quiet.
“I’m sorry to hear the bad news, if there is anything we can do to help.” Feodore stated.
“We need to stay by the gate in case our colleague tries to contact us.” Louis told the man.
“Of course. Theon ask that our best chefs prepare some food for our companions and then gather some comfortable materials for the wait.” Feodore instructed. “We will wait with you and if your Sam Carter does not get in contact, we welcome you as permanent residents of our world.” Andrews and Tracy flinched at the thought but wisely kept their mouths shut.
“Thank you for the offer.” Louis replied. But there is no place like home. He mentally whispered as he stared at the great ring.
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