Always Forgiven, Never Forgotten | By : A.K.O.Shifting-Shadow Category: Stargate: SG-1 > Slash - Male/Male Views: 1212 -:- 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.
“Get to the stargate!” Louis yelled. “Move out, everybody move NOW!” He cried. Malek helped by increasing the volume of his voice so it would be heard by all. The natives were screaming as they ran, death gliders were raining fire down on them all. Louis pushed all that passed him giving them more energy to move faster and away from the immediate area. A man fell before them and Louis raced to help him. –Leave him… he is Goa’uld.-
How can you be sure? He could be Tok’ra.
-Now would be a very unwise time to bring unknown symbiotes to the SGC, he would be taken to a hospital where he could endeavour to escape. It is much more beneficial to leave him where he lies.-
We can’t do that.
-Very well.- Malek replied with a long suffering sigh. –Save him and put him under armed escort but heed my warning this man IS Goa’uld.-
How can you be sure?
-I just know.-
A gut feeling?
-Something like that.- Malek watched as Louis helped get the man onto a stretcher. “Keep him under guard and do not lower your guard, this one has a symbiote… We do not yet know if he is Goa’uld or Tok’ra.” Louis told the medics before ushering them on. –You can save no one else, if we do not go through the gate now, we never can… the death glider will destroy it.-Sure enough as Louis looked up they could see the Glider racing straight for the gate. “Everyone get to the gate now!” Louis cried, he picked up a child that lay crying over her mother’s body and ran as fast as his legs could carry him. They landed hard on the other side of the gate and Louis landed with his back to the metal to protect the child in his arms.
As soon as the child was handed over to the medics Malek took control and approached Sam, he grabbed her and disarmed her before she could even blink. “Louis! What is the meaning of this, release Major Carter at once!”
“She is not Major Carter.” Malek informed Hammond. “She too has a symbiote on her just as one of the men who was sent through under guard.”
“Yes I was informed of that man, are you sure Major Carter is a host?”
“Yes I can feel it inside her.” Malek confirmed. He released the now disarmed Tau’ri into the waiting soldier’s arms. “The one that now dwells inside Major Samantha Carter, I want you to answer this question. Onak sha kree, shel Goa'uld?”
“Goach, sha kree, lo Goa'uld.”
“You are Tok’ra?”
“As are you.” The symbiote replied. “State your name.”
“I am Malek of the Tok’ra. You are.”
“Jolinar of Malkshur. It is good to see you well Malek, there are many that have missed you amongst the Tok’ra.” She stated. “But alas, now is not the time for reunion, I have done something foolish. I have taken your Samantha Carter against her will, I thought that she had offered but now she tells me she was just delivering CPR. Still she has been most kind to me and accepting of what I am, I was relieved to hear you’ve survived but that you desire not to return to the Tok’ra at this time. But now I know why. There is a traitor amongst the Tok’ra and they want you and I dead. Why is this?”
“I do not know.” Malek replied. “Please release her, I take full responsibility if she tries anything.” The soldiers holding Sam hesitated but finally released her after a nod from Hammond. “We have much to discuss. General Hammond, I know that you have a priority to question Sam and Jolinar but I wish to request some time with them alone if I can. We have much to discuss and much of it refers to the privacy of the Tok’ra, be assured that anything of great importance will be told to you by me and my host.”
“You may use your private quarters. However she must be bought to the briefing room as soon as possible. We will monitor the other unknown symbiote and find out what…”
“He is ashrak, sent to kill me by Cronus.” Jolinar informed. “It would be wise on your part to kill him before he wakes.”
“That is not how they do things here, Jolinar. I will explain everything soon.” Malek replied to her. “I would suggest moving him to a high security cell and not lowering your guard. An ashrak will kill his current host and take another if he has the chance… inside the host’s body will be a device used to cause extreme pain for host and symbiote… it is a humiliating death used to kill pathetic Goa’uld and the despised Tok’ra. The device should be destroyed so it cannot be used.” Malek informed. “Now, General Hammond, forgive me but I must speak to Jolinar and Sam in privacy, I mean no rudeness on my part.”
Hammond was surprisingly understanding and nodded with a warm smile. “Of course Malek, however I must insist on an armed escort. They will be stationed outside of your door so if Jolinar does try something we will know.”
“Of course, I would expect nothing less.” Malek replied before turning to Jolinar. “Come.” He told her and led her from the embarkation room. The journey was made in silence since Jolinar did not want to say anything in front of the humans. The moment they were near Malek and Louis’s chambers the guards immediately stood either side of the door. Malek opened the door and signalled Jolinar in before stepping inside himself and closing the door. “Do you wish for a drink?” Malek asked. “We do not have much, but they have water, juice and warm beverages. I prefer teas and warm chocolate myself but please take a look.”
“Sam prefers a beverage called… coffee… may I try this drink?”
“It would be inadvisable, the drink ‘coffee’ is made up of caffeine… which badly affects the body.” Malek replied.
“Ah.” Jolinar replied. “So you have restricted your host from this drink, yet you can easily negate the drinks affects…”
What? Louis asked, voice deceptively quiet. Malek winced and glared at Jolinar who merely smirked. Malek… Is what she saying true?
-Perhaps.-
Perhaps is not an answer! Louis growled. You…you banned me from my favourite drink and all this time you could just have negated its effects! You will pay for this Malek! You are going to make this up to me. You can start by making both Sam and I cups of coffee!
-But Louis…-
No buts! Louis growled. Malek sighed and shook his head with an amused sigh but obediently made the demanded drinks. The two symbiotes sat as they took sips from the hot beverages. Much better… much, much better. Louis thought with a smile, Malek smiled as well pleased that whilst Louis would hold this over him for a long time, Louis was not angry with him, rather he was amused. Placing the drink down and turned his eyes to Jolinar. “Now Jolinar, I will begin with my tale… much of what I will tell you I am not proud of, but as you can see my host and I are… well I will explain in time.” Malek told her as she too placed her drink down and relaxed against the back of the chair she sat on. “I was sent on a mission to infiltrate Ra’s ship.”
“Yes I remember, it was the worst mission imaginable.” Jolinar replied.
“It was indeed the worst mission imaginable.” Malek replied. “I do not completely understand what I am about to tell you for I’m not entirely sure if I believe what I remember. I remember it all to the tiniest detail and yet I sometimes find parts where I have forgotten… You see Jolinar, I remember going on Ra’s ship but then my next memory is being in a Goa’uld larvae room. It is almost if something happened between my arrival on his ship to the time I was in the Goa’uld room. But one thing keeps popping up in my head…”
“There is a traitor… you were betrayed. But I will tell you what I know in a few moments.”
“Yes, I felt as if I was betrayed. I have a feeling in my heart as it pulses, as if there was someone who…hurt me or betrayed me.” Malek told her. “But I cannot remember who or why. What I can tell you is what follows next. I was taken to the room to be removed from Misha. Ra knew I was Tok’ra and wanted to replace me with one of his children, ‘I’ would become a traitor to you. Unfortunately or rather fortunately for myself the humans, the Tau’ri came to Ra’s home world and set up a bomb. This bomb went off inside the ship and gradually killed everyone. As the initial wave hit the ship, glass shattered and things exploded. The Jaffa guards guarding us were killed instantly and Misha was badly wounded, there was however another in the room. My new host, Louis. I was ready to die with Misha but Misha could see the Goa’uld larvae desperately squirming around the floor heading for her and him. Misha would not be host, for it was too late, but it was not too late for Louis. She begged for me to save him, so I did.”
“You did a very honourable thing.” Jolinar replied.
“Louis did not think so at this time. For he was unconscious, he saw me as nothing more than a Goa’uld and I do not blame him. I took control against his will and helped us escape. I could not return through the gate however and asked him to make a choice. Accept me as a symbiote or I would commit suicide. He chose to keep me. At first it was because I told him I could eventually be removed but over time we have blended so deeply, become such good friends that now he has chosen to keep me forever.” Malek told her. “However my host is loyal to these humans, but the human’s loyalty is difficult to keep, they dislike difference and they dislike us for what we are. I have gradually earned their trust but you will most likely be a target for them now, particularly the government officials who would love to get their hands on a symbiote to ‘experiment’ on.”
Jolinar winced at the thought and nodded. “Sam has told me as much and has shown her memories of your missions together. I can understand your loyalty to these people, they may be primitive but they are also strong and adaptable. Perhaps they can be allies in the future.”
“I hope so too. However many will disagree, especially the human politicians, Delek and a few other Tok’ra.”
“Their opinions would be noted but politely ignored.”Jolinar replied with a smirk. “Samantha has shown how valuable her people are, I would be a fool to ignore it, with two council members on the human’s side, they will realise that the humans are valuable.” Jolinar informed him. “However I must now tell you my tale. I was sent to infiltrate Cronus and just like you I was betrayed but before I left the Tok’ra base, I saw something else. I had to pass Cordesh’s quarters to leave the base and I happened to glance inside his room to see he had a device in his hands. He has a communication device Malek. He informed Cronus of me, I did not realise at first but the way Cronus looked at me revealed it all to me. Cordesh is the traitor, however if we just walk in and confront him he will reveal the bases location to whatever Goa’uld is listening… if he hasn’t already. I have been on the run for almost a year, the ashrak following me has come close to killing me several times. I lost Rosha. I was forced to take a male host to hide from the hunter… but I should have realised the hunter was closer than I imagined for he killed everyone in an attempt to find me… but now… now I can get my own back on the one who betrayed me. We both have new hosts, the problem is the Tok’ra will know that they are hosts. If we are the only ones missing Cordesh will add all the clues together.”
Jolinar’s head bowed and Sam took control. Her eyes were wide as she looked at Malek. “I can finally understand now. The bond… it is still new but it feels…incredible.” She told Malek, Malek smiled. “I have a suggestion, Jolinar has shown me quite a bit including this…’masking chemical’? Could it be synthesised somehow?”
“I have considered it.” Malek replied. “But it would be extremely difficult. I am not a scientist and whilst I do monitor experiments I do not know much about how to synthesise the chemical.”
“But I could.” Jolinar replied. “With Samantha’s help I will make it. We may be able to sneak into the Tok’ra base and finally stop Cordesh for once and for all.”
“I look forward to it, my friend. Now… I will request that your quarters be near mine and I will also ask General Hammond to ask the president to extend his protection onto you as well. However Colonel Mayebourne or another pathetic lackey will demand to interrogate you, but I’m sure you can handle that.”
“Yes I’m sure…” Jolinar stopped mid-sentence and focused inwards for some moments before focusing back on Malek. “Forgive me, but Sam has now just realised that we have mates.” She informed Malek, Malek chuckled. “Now once I have met with the officials I have met and certified I am who I claim to be, I will aid with making the masking fluid, if they allow us to make it.”
“I will of course inform Hammond that until this business is resolved, that I will be remaining nearby. You will also have to give Sam more control, they must see that Sam is free and willing.” Malek instructed her. “Now, I will escort you to the briefing room. I may not be allowed to accompany you inside but I will not stray far.” He promised her. She nodded before giving control back to Sam. Sam smiled warmly at Malek but said no more as Malek led them from his quarters . Hammond was waiting for them when they arrived and indicated for Sam to follow him into his office after instructing Malek to wait outside. Malek took a seat at the large briefing table and focused inwards.
-I apologise if I have upset you.-
No, I’m annoyed. Louis replied. But not upset… we’ve both had to make compromises since joining and I’ve learned to live without coffee. I know you don’t like it so I won’t demand we have it, but it would have been nice if you told me a cup now and then would not have done any harm.
-Now you know and I will not complain about a rare cup of coffee.- Malek replied tuning out the private conversation between Jolinar, Sam and Hammond, it was not his place to know what was said until they confided in him. –Sam accepted Jolinar fairly quickly.- Malek thought astounded, amused and relieved.
She had us as an example. She has grown to accept you and learn that the Tok’ra bond with the host’s with love and not with force.
-Yes I suppose you’re right but the way Jolinar took her as a host, I was expecting…’backlash’ from it all.-
They must have had a serious conversation as we led them from the embarkation room to our quarters. Louis replied. Sam must have been more open to Jolinar’s explanation and Jolinar learning you were alive and well must have willingly listened to what Sam had to say. However we can never know what was said, we can only know that it helped resolve the situation.
-Yes, indeed and that is all that matters. However, I believe it would be extremely wise to watch them and monitor them just to be sure all is well. After all we only have Jolinar and Sam’s word that Jolinar is who she says she is. I’m sure Sam would not say she was Jolinar unless it was true but we must be absolutely certain.- Malek told his host. –One of a symbiote’s abilities is to sound like their host.-
You mean you can stop your voice…’echoing’.
-Yes but we do not do this. The Goa’uld like the way it makes them sound more powerful but the Tok’ra prefer it as a difference between host and symbiote. It shows who is speaking and also shows that the bond is mutual and the host body is being shared fairly. We only speak as the host if we need to and the need has never arose as far as I am aware.-
Sam would never allow…
-If Sam is unwilling she would have no say… However I believe they are speaking the truth, I know that this is Jolinar, do not ask how, I believe it is a.. a ‘gut instinct’. We can trust her.-
I believe that too, but you are right, we will monitor them just as everyone else no doubt will. Louis replied. However they will also need support, everyone will be judging them, it will be up to us to make them feel at home.
-Indeed-. Malek replied proudly. Louis was astounding him more and more often with his open mindedness. The host had come a long way from the close minded man Malek had taken as a host. –Now, let us lay these doubts to rest, we will watch but we will not judge.-
There is not much else to do, SG1 has been sent off without us, again. Louis complained. It feels like we’re laid off the team whenever something happens.
-No, Mer Prinekh, they keep us behind because they need our expertise. If we were to return to the Tok’ra base and get accepted back into the fold the same would happen there. My duties consisted of running the base, making sure we had enough supplies, enough room and that everyone was safe. I rarely had missions, instead I was giving missions to others.-
So when we finally go ‘home’ we will be trapped in the base?
-You would call the base home?- Malek asked ignoring his host’s question.
It is your home, so it is mine as well. I just hope I can regularly visit Earth and go home for vacations. Louis told Malek.
-We will make time.- Malek vowed. –Many Tok’ra go on vacations to their host’s home worlds, we would be no different. I promise you this. Thank you for choosing to stay at the Tok’ra base. I would have willingly stayed with the SGC, in fact I was planning to.-
You’ve had to make a lot of compromises for me it is only fair I do the same, besides it is not like I’d be saying good bye to Earth forever. Louis replied.
-I would never ask that of you.- Malek promised. –But let us not make these decisions hastily, let us see what the future brings.- Malek instructed as Jolinar and General Hammond finally emerged from the office. “General Hammond.” Malek greeted.
“The decision has been made, the President has offered protection but he will not supply it until she has had an interview. Colonel Mayebourne is being sent with several escorts. They will question you both to ensure Jolinar and Major Carter are trustworthy. Until then you will both have to remain on base. Malek, you are in charge of Jolinar and Major Carter, you will ensure their safety and their co-operation until the decision is made.” General Hammond instructed before turning to Jolinar. “You will comply with Major Ferretti’s and Malek’s orders until a decision is made.”
“I will comply.” Jolinar confirmed before giving control to Sam. “We’ll do as told sir. Don’t worry about us.” Sam vowed.
“I will make them as comfortable as possible.” Louis promised. “I’ve already asked that their quarters be near mine and Malek’s so if they require anything we are nearby.” General Hammond nodded in approval and dismissed them.
“They’re not going to trust me straight away are they?” Sam asked.
“I’m sorry Sam, it is not you, it is Jolinar they doubt. Malek has given his word but they won’t trust Jolinar until she proves she is who she really says she is. Malek informed me that symbiotes have the ability to pretend to be their hosts, they can simulate the host voice to make it seem like the host is in control. I do not believe Jolinar is doing this but I’m sure that the others are concerned that Jolinar is not giving you control.” Louis told her.
“I can assure you that that is not happening. I’ve accepted Jolinar.” Sam told them. “Having Malek around helped me. The bond you two have, it is amazing. I hope Jolinar and I will have a bond like yours.”
“I am sure you will, the Tok’ra love their host’s with all they have. Jolinar will come to care deeply for you as you will her.” Louis replied. “And do not worry, Malek and I do not doubt you but our duty is to ensure your safety and compliance.”
“I understand.” Sam replied. “Jolinar does not like it but she understands to. We’re both thankful that you believe and trust us.”
“Hey, I know what it was like when everyone doubted me.” Louis told her, “You’ve got me, so you won’t have to go through what I went through. I know that doesn’t mean a lot since everyone else will be suspicious of you but I hope you’ll take comfort from it.”
“She is grateful for your support.” Jolinar replied taking control. Louis nodded and allowed Malek to retake control. The symbiote smiled at Jolinar before leading the way. “There are many people that have missed you, Malek. Including Delek, Martouf and Aldwin.”
Malek snorted. “I’m sure Delek has missed me. But he is probably eager to take my seat among the council.”
“Delek may be many things, he may be cruel, sadistic, heartless, but he truly cares for you. Why can either of you not see how much you care for each other.”
“It is too late. I have found another that cares deeply for me and my host.”
“What? Malek can you truly not see! Are you blind? Delek loves you.”
Malek ignored her and opened the doors to her new quarters. “This is your new home for now, Major Carter will tell you what you need and help you adjust, if you have any questions I am next door.”
“You’re not staying?” Jolinar asked.
“As much as I would like to catch up with what has been happening with the Tok’ra, now is not the time. My host and I would like to catch up with some other issues that we have over-looked. We will talk later.” Malek told Jolinar before turning around and leaving.
You just wanted to get away. Does the mention of Delek’s name upset you that much? Do you still love him?
-I won’t deny it.- Malek confessed. –I do love him, have always loved him. Our love has existed for many hundreds of years. It always felt like it was meant to be, we were always together. But now, I wonder, I like to think he cared for me and my host’s but he became so cold. I love him, but he does not love me and I will not cling to a long dead relationship.-
Jolinar says it is not long dead. Delek still loves you.
-She’s wrong. The Delek I knew and loved is long gone. I have come to care for Feodore and I do love the Greek, but past loves are…difficult to get over, especially since we have loved each other for so long.- Malek replied. –But be assured that my feelings will not damage what we have with Feodore, they will fade.-
I am not worried about that. Louis replied stubbornly. I’m worried about you. If I had known getting into another relationship…
-No. Louis. I encouraged it and I still do. Feodore is good for you. Good for us.- Malek reassured. –Delek is in the past, Feodore is our future.- Malek stated. –I do however need some time, I love Feodore but I still love Delek too. I’m not over that traitorous symbiote, I just need time to get over him.-
I’m no expert but love isn’t something you just get over. Louis replied. You need to confront Delek, Malek. You need to end it. Your questioning why Delek did what he did and until Delek answers for his actions you will always doubt.
-When did you become so wise?-
Since you taught me to open my eyes, Malek. I know you love Feodore, I feel what you feel but you need Delek to talk to you, to tell you why he has done what he has done. Until the other Tok’ra answers to his actions, you will always be confused and unsure. You need answers, you need closure.
-You’re right. I guess I already knew what I needed to do but I guess I didn’t want to hear what he had to say. However you are right. I needed to hear what he has to say for this all to be over.- Malek replied. –I will have to confront Delek as soon as I can return to the Tok’ra safely.-
Malek? Louis asked questioningly. Malek stayed quiet sending encouragement. I don’t quite understand something. Your memories are fine and yet…
-For some reason some of my memories are distorted. I don’t understand why Louis, I was not damage when I lost Misha, yet for some reason I am suffering from some sort of mild amnesia. It is as if my memories are intact but there are some memories that are buried, forgotten and they are just now rising to the surface.-
How did you know there was a traitor?
-I didn’t at first, I suspected but now I feel it strongly. There is a traitor and every fibre of my being is saying that it is true, my instincts are telling me that one of my brothers or sisters has betrayed not only me but all our brethren. I wished it wasn’t so, I wish I could say I was wrong, but having Jolinar here confirmed it. You see Louis, Jolinar is as old as Egeria, in fact she was originally Goa’uld, she betrayed her heritage to join us. Her words carry much weight for when she speaks all Tok’ra listen as if Egeria herself has spoken. She knew our queen better than anyone.-
She is precious to the Tok’ra?
-Yes, she is old and wise, but most importantly she is all we have left of Egeria.- Malek confirmed. –it seems that someone is trying to kill off the highest ranking Tok’ra. Several Tok’ra councillors have died for one reason or another but we never suspected… One of our own or perhaps a rebellion is rising amongst the Tok’ra and trying to replace the council with themselves or their most trusted lap dogs. I was very well respected amongst my kin and I often spoke against my fellow council members and tried to make them see reason. It is understandable that I and Jolinar would be the traitors first targets.-
So now that you are supposedly dead and Jolinar is missing, who is next?
-I suspect that the traitor will lay low for a while. Two high ranking members have vanished in the past few years, they will have to be patient unless they want the council to suspect what is truly going on. One thing we symbiote’s have is unending patience.- Malek replied.
That means you have to locate the traitor and reveal him without exposing yourself of Jolinar.
-Yes, if he senses we are alive he will rush his next plans and probably reveal the base and the Tok’ra to our enemies, we will have to find the traitor carefully.- Malek replied proudly. –Jolinar will create the masking chemical and when the time comes we will return to the base and find the traitor. Until then we will have to carry on as normal. Everything has to be in place before we make our move.- Malek warned.
So until then, business as normal?
-Yes.- Malek confirmed.
Problem is that SG1 is off base on a mission and neither Sam or I will be allowed off base for a little while. So what do we do?
-Well for now we can train in the gym, help with translations and you can get to know a fellow Tok’ra and get comfortable to talking to another symbiote.- Malek replied. –Jolinar will of course wish to learn more about the Tau’ri and about what she’s missed. She will also want help in the lab creating the masking chemical, we can help in any way we please, whether we become the test subject or merely work as assistants.-
It turned out that they had become the test subjects. Malek stubbornly told Jolinar that his life was more expendable then here and would not listen to her suggesting otherwise. Eventually Jolinar surrendered and allowed Malek and Louis to test the masking fluid. Most of the time it ended with Malek having to heal himself or slipping into unconsciousness. Doctor Fraiser was unimpressed but General Hammond could see the value of their research and permitted it as long as the doctor was in attendance.
SG1 returned some time later and Louis met them in the embarkation room. He had been sleeping, allowing Malek to heal them so he had not been aware they had been prisoners on an alien world. When he had heard he was determined to visit them, Malek was all too willing to allow this as it was Malek himself that needed healing, not his host. Louis pretended to be aloof, demanding a mission report but Malek could sense his host’s need to know they were safe. For some reason Louis felt responsible for his team, not that Malek was complaining, it was an admirable trait.
Jack was surprisingly amiable as he met Sam and Jolinar. he embraced Sam and greeted Jolinar before reporting to the briefing room. He even listened to Jolinar and answered her questions as they retold what happened during their imprisonment. The woman they bought with them listened attentively and both Jolinar and Malek shared looks. They would have to watch Linea.
Their suspicions came to pass not a few hours later, both were in the lab, Sam was showing Linea how to use a computer. Linea knocked out Sam’s assistant with a device but Malek quickly stopped the woman from doing the same with them. Jolinar slipped the device off and pocketed it to have a look at later before handing the elderly woman to the security guards. It was decided that she was too dangerous to remain on Earth, God forbid if the ‘authorities’ got hold of her. So she was sent on her way. Malek and Jolinar knew they would hear from her again but for now they let her pass from their minds.
“Well, well, two parasites joined together in one small room full of dangerous chemicals.” Jolinar sneered before controlling her expression and turning around to face their unwanted visitor.
“Hmm, look what the cat dragged in.” Malek answered. “It seems the president hasn’t thoroughly reprimanded you properly, for you still speak to us, earth’s allies with such disrespect.” Malek continued. “However now is not the time to deal with pathetic feuds. Ask your questions and leave.”
“I will interview you, alone.”
“Not alone, the president has sent some military personnel to ensure that our rights as allies are not disrespected.” Malek told the obnoxious human. “Until General Hammond has confirmed that they have arrived and are in place, you will not be permitted to speak to either of us.”
“How dare you…”
“I dare because I know what you will try to achieve if I do not ensure my comrades and my safety. We have proven our worth but you’d rather see us ripped from our hosts and experimented on in a lab. Until we have protection I will not leave my comrades side.” Malek retorted.
“You will do as told.”
“No, we are not obligated to. Why were you sent? You are incompetent.” Malek retorted. “The president has already offered Jolinar the same protection he has given me, you will treat us with respect or this conversation ends before it even began.” Malek informed the arrogant human. –Doesn’t the man get a hint? Or do I need to spell it out for him?-
Do not rise to the bait that is what he wants. He wants to have fuel on you so he can paint you in a bad light and get what he wants.
-Us in a lab under a knife.- Malek thought with a shudder. –Do not worry Louis I will not respond to this fool.- He assured his host as he watched Mayebourne go red with embarrassment and rage.
“Ah, I see you found them.” Jack called out as he entered the room, he glared at the soldier who had escorted Mayebourne directly to Malek and Jolinar before stepping in between the human and two Tok’ra. “Malek, the military guards have arrived to protect Jolinar and you during the interview. Their setting up in the interview room, I’ll lead you down there.”
“Thank you Colonel O’Neill, I was just informing our guest of our needs, he seems to think we do not need to protect ourselves from him and yet he continues to call us parasites.” Malek told Jack smirking as Mayebourne literally shivered with rage. –He knows he can’t retaliate without Jack reporting him or us retaliating.-
We have to be careful if we nurse the rage he has he may try something in the future.
-Yes, I will be careful but until he learns not to insult us we can never be friendly with each other.- Malek replied. –However, if he is amiable to us, I will be amiable to him.-
You know that he will not be amiable. But we must prove we are better than him. We should rise above his insults and taunting. He wants us to react and the more arrogant and angry we act, the more he has us. We are better than him, superior. Act it. Don’t let his childish insults affect us, if he calls you a parasite merely shrug it off for his opinion does not matter. He is biased and cannot see no further than his nose.
-But I am not a parasite.-
No you’re not, but his opinion of you doesn’t matter, during the interview remind him that you are not a parasite, act offended but not angry, because in the end the authorities don’t matter. The only thing that matters is that your comrades know who you are and what you are. These ‘superiors’ that sit behind desks and haven’t even seen the stargate, never mind travelled through it think they have the right to judge. They don’t but the best thing to do is humour them because unfortunately they have the money and money equals power.
-I will try to be calmer.- Malek promised as he joined General Hammond and Jack in the room that looked into the interview room. Louis had explained the function of the glass, how it resembled mirror on one side but was transparent on the other. Malek had thought it strange but ingenious. Now he could use it to watch over his comrade as she was interviewed. By the end Malek realised he had nothing to worry about, Mayebourne tried to insult her bur Jolinar was quick and easily turned the insults back onto Mayebourne.
Jolinar emerged feeling smug if the expression on her face was anything to go by and now it was Malek’s turn. Malek strolled in and gracefully took the seat across from Mayebourne. “Major Ferretti and Malek of the Tok’ra have just sat before me.” Mayebourne stated for the recording tape player on the table. “Now, Major Ferretti, or is it Malek?”
“I, Malek of the Tok’ra, am currently in control.” Malek stated to the tape.
“Very well Malek. Tell me how Jolinar came to be inside of Major Samantha Carter.”
“I was not present during the joining, for my host and I were aiding the evacuees. However I knew that she was a host when I stepped back into the SGC via the gate. Through her joining with Major Carter, she became aware of who I was and informed me of who she was. I did not trust her immediately but after a few questions I was insured that it was her. We spoke for a short while privately so I could assess if that was the truth.”
“And did she prove that she was who she claims she was.”
“Yes, I am certain that she is Jolinar.”
“How can you be sure? After all there is no physical proof of what you are claiming. Are you defending her simply because she is another of your kind?”
“I find this question insulting.” Malek replied. “Do you simply defend a criminal who murdered hundreds of people just because he is human?”
“That is not a relative question, answer the one asked.”
“It is indeed a relative question. For the Goa’uld are murderers, I would not defend a Goa’uld just as you would not defend a mass murderer of your own kind. I would not claim Jolinar is not who she says she is unless I was sure she was Tok’ra. During our conversations Major Carter has been given regular control and spoken for herself that is how I know she is who she says she is.”
“But that is not absolutely proof.”
“I suppose not, but I can only give my guarantees that she is who she says she is.” Malek replied.
“And if your guarantees are not enough?”
“Then you can ignore them, but my record and my host’s record proves that we are trustworthy. I have never done anything to endanger your planet or your people, in fact I’ve done everything I can to protect you and your world. But if my word means so little then it is your prerogative to interrogate and try to find out for yourself. But as you have said there is no proof, no evidence, you can only trust our word.”
“And if your word is not enough.”
“Then clearly you either have no trust in myself and my host, or you need physical proof which you will not have. You only have the words of myself, Louis, Jolinar and Sam to go by and if that is not enough there is nothing else we can do. We can only try and prove to you and your superiors that we speak truth.”
“Louis has yet to give us his word.” Mayebourne commented, his gaze flicking to the military guards standing nearby the wall.
Malek lowered his head and allowed Louis forward. “For the sake of the tape I now introduce myself as Major Louis Ferretti, the host to Malek of the Tok’ra. I confirm Malek’s words. Jolinar is of the Tok’ra. She is trustworthy.” Louis told Mayebourne. “If my word is not enough, I do not understand the reason for this interview.”
“It is to determine whether Jolinar is trustworthy.”
“Yet when my symbiote has told you she is indeed trustworthy, you doubted his word.” Louis replied. “Malek is the best one to ask for he knows Jolinar, they are comrades, brothers in arms and yet you doubt his word.”
“I apologise if you’ve been led to believe that I do not trust Malek’s words.” Mayebourne replied not at all sorry for his continued behaviour. “However you must understand that my superiors are finding it difficult to trust a creature, particularly one that latches onto human minds and can take control.”
“And Malek has proven that he will not take control against my will and has proven he is trustworthy. I do not understand why your superiors are so hesitant, Malek has saved this planet and our lives many times has that not proven him worthy of your respect and trust?” Louis asked.
“It is not as simple as that.”
“I am sure it is not.” Louis replied. “However I find this whole situation overly complicated. I understand that you need reassurances since she is another alien in a human on this world, but the only reassurance I can give is my word. I know my word is not enough but that is all that can be given. Will I be permitted to leave now? I have nothing else to give you.”
“You may leave until I next request your presence.”
Louis nodded to the man politely and quickly left. See, give him nothing and he will behave more amiably.
-Let’s just see how long this lasts.- Malek commented doubtfully as Jolinar met them with a hug, thankful for Malek defending her. Malek smiled warmly and accompanied her and Sam to the cafeteria. Jolinar immediately picked out a ridiculous amount of meals wanting to learn about all the food Earth had to offer. Malek however was not hungry and neither was Louis, instead Malek sipped a can of coke and listened to Jolinar excitedly talking about the raspberry jelly.
I wonder what Mayebourne is after? Louis asked quietly after a few moments.
-I do not know, but I think he hoped he could get his hands on Jolinar but now the president has extended his protection to her the fool is at a loss.- Malek replied. –Now he is trying to get us to react negatively whilst pretending to be amiable and polite. It is as you say he wishes for me or Jolinar to become violent and prove him right, that we are dangerous.- Malek thought after a few moments.
You did not give him the satisfaction. Louis replied proudly.
-No, I took your advice. I should know what to do by now since I am part of the council but being referred to as an it, as a creature really gets me mad.-
Yes and he knows that. Louis replied. He is trying to get you to rise to the bait.
-I bet he is ranting inside his puny little mind because we did not give him the satisfaction.- Malek stated with amusement, Louis merely chuckled at Malek’s humour. Jolinar either did not mind or did not notice Malek ignoring her unintentionally.
The following days were filled with pretty much the same thing. They woke up, did the morning routine, eat, spent time in the lab, eat lunch, got interrogated by Mayebourne and spent time in the gym before bed. SG1 was sent off yet again without them, Kawalsky had unofficially taken Sam and Louis’s place. Louis missed the mission’s but he knew his place was with Sam and Jolinar. Mayebourne was trying everything under the sun to insult them without directly insulting them and both hosts and symbiote’s were growing tired of it. The final straw however was when SG1 did not return from their mission and Mayebourne prevented them from going to rescue their comrades.
Louis had lost his temper but Malek took control before the host could run his mouth. Together the enraged symbiotes and the furious host’s walked into General Hammond’s office, closing the door and taking a seat. Hammond raised an eyebrow. “General Hammond, I do not make a habit of complaining but I must do so now. Colonel Mayebourne is an incompetent buffoon. I wish to launch a complaint against the man. We have had enough of his abuse.”
Hammond eyes seemed to glint and with a small smile he pulled out papers. “I have been expecting this. I have four forms, one for each host and symbiote. Fill out your basic details and then write the complaints you have against the man, I will have them sent directly to the right authorities.”
“Thank you.” Malek replied before filling out the form. It took a long time as Malek had much to say on the subject. Louis was allowed control next and his form was quickly filled in and returned to General Hammond who accepted them and filed them in front of them. Malek and Jolinar left and smirked at Colonel Mayebourne as they passed him, hopefully this meant they would not have to see him again.
Unfortunately it took a long time to take effect, Mayebourne was still indirectly insulting them and holding them prisoner in the base. SG1 had been on several missions, including the one where Daniel had become addicted to the Sarcophagus. Malek had ranted at Mayebourne when this had happened, telling him this would not have happened if they had been there to prevent it. Mayebourne hadn’t even cared that Daniel was hurt, instead he started asking about the sarcophagus. The man was more interested in getting his hands on alien technology rather than the safety of his own people. And the questions got worse and worse. Mayebourne wanted to know of the Asgard, as if they would betray their allies. The worst to come though was when SG1 bought back an orb. Mayebourne demanded that he and his ‘allies’ take possession of it, it was only fortunate, or unfortunate for Jack that the orb decided not to leave.
It was Sam’s ingenious idea to give the bacteria energy to speak to the bacteria through Jack, but it was painful to watch. Jack had to die so the bacteria could take control. The bacteria took some convincing but finally General Hammond struck a deal. They all watched as Jack controlled by the bacteria walked to the gate and sent the orb through. Then as if in slow motion the man fell backwards. Sam rushed forward and checked his pulse. “He’s alive.” She said relieved.
“Can you trust us now, Mayebourne? Or are we still your enemies?” Malek asked, mocking. Mayebourne growled but before he could respond a soldier informed him that he had a phone-call. A couple of minutes later the fool was storming through the control room and out of the base.
Jack took several days to recover from his death but when they visited he was always cheerful but Malek and Louis could see something in his eyes. The experience had changed the man and yet Jack kept up the ‘play-boy’ act up. In fact he demanded to get up onto his feet the moment Doctor Fraiser said he was healthy. In fact he was racing to the briefing room as if he had not recently died. None could blame him though, for Teal’c who had gone to his home world had found out his son was missing. Their mission? To bring Teal’c’s wife and son back to Earth.
“What do you know of Chulak?”
“It is the home world for majority of Apophis’s Jaffa, it is also Apophis’s preferred stronghold.” Malek replied. “No doubt that Apophis is hiding somewhere on the planet or nearby to respond immediately.”
“It is far more likely that he is hiding out somewhere, waiting, listening and watching. He wishes to make an example of the boy to make sure no more Jaffa rebel.” Jolinar added. “In fact I would say this whole thing is an elaborate trap. After all he may punish the family but the one he really wants is Teal’c. What better way to get at Teal’c then his son? What is guaranteed to get Teal’c to react? His son.”
“Do you suggest we just sit back and do nothing?” Daniel demanded.
“No, Teal’c has become my friend. I’d like to think he considers me a friend as well.” Teal’c bowed his head towards Malek’s comment. “I will help in this rescue mission, we are merely trying to put you in the picture.”
“Apophis’s hates Teal’c for betraying him. He has lost many Jaffa after your attack on his invasion fleet. He needs to secure the remaining Jaffa’s loyalty. Teal’c betrayed him, he’ll make sure Ry'ac does not.”
“How so?” Jack asked seriously.
“Brain-washing.” Teal’c stated.
“Teal’c is right, Ry'ac will be brainwashed into believing whatever Apophis tells him. Apophis will use Ry'ac as the bait and trap. Teal’c and allies will race to Ry'ac's aid and Ry'ac will seal the trap closed.”
“How?” Daniel asked.
“I’ve seen Goa’uld do it many times before.” Jolinar murmured. “The Goa’uld makes the child a trap, when the parent approaches the child will shout out and alert the guards, therefore sealing the fate of all who are in the room, including the child. Some make the child the death trap, turning them into what you would call…’bombs’. Poisons, weapons, venom and so many other cruel and effective methods.”
“When we approach Ry'ac we will have to disable him. We need to analyse his whole body and test for traps or ambushes.”
“Is that necessary?” Teal’c asked unhappy. “If I was to say my son is safe, would that not matter.”
“Of course it matters Teal’c!” Sam exclaimed “But you have to understand that the Goa’uld will do anything for power including turning your son into a weapon. Jolinar and Malek really don’t want to treat your son as a potential enemy but it is a necessary precaution.” Teal’c frowned but nodded at Sam’s exclamation. “I’m sorry that these measures will be necessary Teal’c.” Sam told him as she placed a gentle hand on his shoulder.
“She’s right, Teal’c. I don’t wish my words to be true. Ry'ac is merely a child, I wish he wasn’t involved but Apophis has made your son involved and if I know Goa’ulds, which I unfortunately do, he has done something to Ry'ac. I hope I’m wrong but my instincts, my knowledge of my enemy tells me I’m right.” Malek told Teal’c. “I’d be glad to be proven wrong this time, but you must allow Jolinar and I to make sure. We have to make sure Ry’ac isn’t corrupted by any suicide device or weapon. Allow us this one thing my friend and we will do no more.”
“I will allow you to check over Ry'ac.” Teal’c finally said reluctantly. “I hope your wrong.” He stated before standing up and leaving the room.
“I wish I had not needed to say that.” Malek murmured.
“He needed to know.” Jolinar responded. “He needed to understand the risks. Apophis will show no mercy to the boy. It matter little that he is just a boy, to Apophis he is merely a toy. Teal’c may have to face the fact that the boy we find and rescue may not be his Ry'ac.”
“Let’s hope that is not the case.” Malek answered sadly.
“You mission is approved. Bring back Teal’c’s wife and son.” Hammond instructed.
They found Teal’c already prepared and ready to go, but despite his eagerness to rescue his son, the Jaffa waited for them. Jolinar slowly approached Malek making sure they could not be seen by the others and whispered to him. “Are you sure going to Chulak is a good idea? We may have new host’s but how long do you think it will take for Apophis to realise we are not Goa’uld? The clue will be that we are with the Tau’ri.”
“We can pretend to be juvenile goa’uld’s who have just taken new hosts a little bit too soon.”
“That may be a viable idea, but we have to be careful.” Jolinar replied still doubtful but it was clear Sam was determined to do this and so Jolinar was conceding to her host.
They managed to sneak through the stargate without raising suspicion, they even managed to reach the town without suspicion, but Malek felt tense as if something was going to happen. Teal’c’s wife greeted him, love in her eyes but Malek and Louis’s eyes were on the unknown Jaffa who stared with doubt at Dray’ac. It soon turned out Teal’c’s wife had remarried, but all could see she never really loved this newcomer. –That is going to come back and bite us all.-
What do you mean? Louis asked.
-As soon as it becomes clear that she does not love him, he will commit a crime of passion and betray us all to Apophis.- Malek clarified. –We will have to watch him. Jolinar and Sam are watching him to. Let’s hope our suspicions do not come to pass.-
No I think you’re right. Louis replied as Teal’c who was always calm and cool lose his temper. “Teal’c!” Louis cried out. The man fled the room after leaving his wife crying. Instead of backing down she followed him determined to have it out with him. She is either brave or foolish.
-Perhaps a little bit of both. Love is like that Mer Prinekh. It can make everyone crazy.- Malek replied watching the door thoughtfully. Jolinar shared a look with Malek as they re-entered looking a little too cosy. –And there is the proof that we’re going to have some trouble.-
“Open up!” A cry demanded as every head turned to the door. Dray’ac ushered them into a hidden room as her new husband moved to deal with them. Malek stood close to the thick wall and listened to the Jaffa marching around trying to find them.
“It is safe now!” Dray’ac’s husband called. Dray’ac cautiously opened the door and Louis followed her out cautiously. The Jaffa were gone and everyone was in one piece.
Malek was still overly wary though, he knew that the love triangle between Teal’c, Dray’ac and her new husband would endanger them all. Louis and he sat up for most of the night watching the quarrelling ex-husband and wife. Malek’s fears came to pass late that night. The night was dark and the only light was the flickering of candles, Malek, Louis, Sam and Jolinar sat in the corner of the room watching. Dray’ac slipped over to Teal’c’s resting space with the clear intentions of spending some of the night with him. Teal’c asked why she was there and why she was daring to betray her husband. Unaware of her new husband standing on the balcony above them, her words sealed their fate.
“I did not marry him for love, I married him so Ry’ac would have a future.”
Malek and Jolinar watched as the new husband froze, his face darkening in anger and ex-wife and husband reunited beneath him. He turned and fled, the symbiotes sharp eye sight easily saw Jack following. The two symbiotes made no move to follow knowing they could not help; they would have to rely on Jack.
A few hours later and their fears were made real, the husband did indeed go to Apophis to betray them, Jack barely stopped him in time. Malek was tense; a glance at Sam and Jolinar showed they were just as anxious, the situation was beginning to feel more and more like a trap. The two Tok’ra took guard duty for the rest of the early morning as their team and the Jaffa prepared to break into Apophis’s temple and capture Ry’ac.
“Do you think their getting ahead of themselves?” Jolinar asked quietly as she watched the Jaffa and humans rushing around preparing. “We’ve already warned them that it could be a trap. Will they ignore our warnings?”
“No they have not ignored our warnings, Jolinar, but their priority is the boy, they will not stand by and allow the Goa’uld manipulate a young child.” Malek explained. “We will have to back them up and ensure their safety, their feelings will endanger us all but O’Neill will ensure their safety.”
“If you’re sure.”
“I am sure; however I will be requesting to see the child for myself to ensure he is safe.” Malek assured. Despite his assurance they were both tense and doubtful.
What followed however was clearly a trap, the boy only had a few Jaffa guards and they were easy to defeat. Jack immediately raised alarm bells but Teal’c just would not listen to him, all he could see was his son safe and sound. “Teal’c please allow us to check him over. I assure you we will not harm him, we just need to be sure.” Teal’c reluctantly allowed Jolinar and Malek to approach.
“He is in too good a health.” Malek murmured. “Dray’ac.” He called as he stood and approached her. “Can you tell if there is anything different about your son?”
“Well.” Dray’ac murmured. It was clear she didn’t want anything to be wrong with her son but then her eyes lit up. “His teeth, he lost two when he was training with Master Brai’tac.”
“Quiet, we cannot inform the boy that we know.” Malek instructed. “We will need to knock him out and have him checked over by a medical professional. Jolinar.” Malek called, he quickly informed his fellow symbiote and instructed her to let Jack knock the boy out. Teal’c of course was angry and it took Malek’s full strength to prevent the Jaffa from interfering. “Teal’c your boy if fine, I would do nothing to harm him but if my suspicion is correct his missing teeth have been replaced with something to destroy the SGC. If I’m wrong I will allow you to punch me and my host, but if I’m right I will ensure everyone’s safety.” Malek stated. “Trust me, please.”
“Very well.” Teal’c replied angrily. The anger dissipated to shame as Malek was proven right. The two teeth were replaced with two chemicals, alone they were harmless but when mixed together they were deadly, there was no cure, no prevention. The boy was brainwashed and called Apophis his father. It was devastating to watch as the young boy spat in his father’s face.
“I’m sorry Teal’c.” Malek murmured as the man emerged from the holding room. The man did not answer, could not answer. The solution to the brainwashing was just as painful, one shot from a zat’nik’tel. They heard the boy cry out as the shot ran through his body and then silence. Not a sound came from the room. Dray’ac began to sing and they all lowered their heads thinking they’d lost the boy when a small voice joined in. Relief was obvious in everyone’s faces and Malek sighed relieved. “Thank Egeria.” He murmured.
“How can a Goa’uld do that to a child?” Jolinar asked clearly affected by what had happened.
“Because they are monsters who care for nothing but power. Thank Egeria we were able to help this one boy, but there are many out there, many who suffer under the parasites tyrannical rule.” Malek replied. “I suggest we rest for today. Ry’ac needs to be checked over by the doctors and he needs to spend time with his family. It is time for their bonds to be strengthened as he rests.” Malek stated. “Teal’c, I once again apologise for what has happened, I know I looked like the enemy talking as if your son was the enemy. I only hope you can forgive me.”
Teal’c smiled and clasped a hand on Louis’s shoulder. “I have never doubted you or your host Malek, I trusted you when you said Jolinar was a friend and I trust you now. My son is well and it is thanks to you and everyone else. Thank you for helping me and my family.” Malek clasped the hand on his host’s shoulder and bowed his head, he watched Teal’c return to his son’s bedside before dismissing himself.
I’m glad Ry’ac is okay. Louis thought quietly. It is just a shame that things had to happen the way they did. No child should have to suffer that fate.
-That is what we Tok’ra try to prevent. We try to stop the Goa’uld so no one has to suffer but it is difficult, we can only do so much.-
I know but the few who you’ve helped save will be grateful for what you’ve done. You may not be able to save the many but you have saved the few and they will always be eternally grateful.
-Hmm. Sometimes I think we’re not getting things done quickly enough.-
I wouldn’t say that, the Goa’uld are not a race you can wipe out on a whim, what you and your kin have done is nothing short of amazing. You’ve been fighting them from the very beginning, you’ve helped save and protect hundreds if not thousands of lives. So what if the Goa’uld are still around? The few that you’ve saved will all be glad that you’re around, you’ve given them hope, hope that they can survive and fight the Goa’uld and that is all that matters. You’re a hero Malek and sometimes being a hero doesn’t mean wiping out the enemy in one final epic war, sometimes being a hero means defeating the enemy in battle time and time again.
-I don’t feel like a hero.-
Then clearly you don’t see what you’ve done for the people of this universe. Louis replied simply. Now let’s head to the cafeteria I fancy some chocolate cake and a cup of coffee. Malek chuckled at the change of topic and happily handed control back over to his host. Louis smirked and whistled as he walked eagerly looking forward to the dreaded caffeine dose.
-Humans.- Malek sighed fondly.
Symbiotes. Louis chimed in amusement and just like that the pains of the day faded into a distant memory and the two of them argued fondly over whether or not to have the coffee. Currently Louis was winning…
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