Vinum Sororum Nostrum
By Carrie and Skip - carebear2736@yahoo.com and jackson4d@genie.co.uk 

RATING: PG-13

WARNINGS: Violence

CATEGORY: Hurt/Comfort, Action/Adventure 

SPOILERS: Lots and lots of little ones.... 

TIME FRAME: Season 4 

SUMMARY: Taken from The Princess Bride: 
'Does it got any sports in it?' 
'Are you kidding? Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, 
chases, escapes, true love, miracles.' 
'Doesn't sound too bad. I'll try and stay awake.' 
OK, so that's probably not the case, but I can say that SG1 are on 
another 'routine' mission. 

DISCLAIMER: Stargate SG-1 and its characters are the property of 
Showtime/Viacom, MGM/UA, Double Secret Productions, and Gekko 
Productions. We have written this story for entertainment purposes only 
and no money whatsoever has exchanged hands. No copyright infringement 
is intended. The original characters, situations, and story are the 
property of the authors. Not to be archived without permission of the 
authors. 

AUTHOR'S NOTES:

Care: Thanks to Sue for betaing this! Trust me when I say she had her 
work cut out for her... Skip and I had many an argument about whom to 
whump (she prefers Jack, I Daniel), so we compromised and whumped 'em 
all. Repeatedly. Gratuitously. But not beyond repair! Between that and 
trying to keep each other on track, I think this turned out fairly well. 
Thoughts and comments welcome! 

Skip- Jack fan? Where? Here? Oh... me... OK maybe a little ;) thanks to 
all the guys at the talk Forums for being so evil to me in bullying the 
next part out...;) 

                         *******************

Sam looked around the encampment to her quiet companions. Daniel slept 
peacefully, while the colonel's soft snores indicated that he, too, was 
asleep. Sighing, she raised her head to locate Teal'c as he silently 
watched over the dark woods. 

P3S 279 was turning out to be a refreshingly boring planet. Sam eyed the 
two nearly full moons thoughtfully, wondering how on Earth anyone could 
sleep while it was so bright. Teal'c noticed her movement and strode 
over to her stealthily. It was her turn for watch, thank goodness. An 
excuse for not being asleep. Sam made her way to the fire, longing for 
creature comforts of home - a good book, hot cocoa...a normal life? Nah. 

                         *******************

Sounds of her teammates' early morning stirrings jerked Sam out of her 
reverie. Time flies when you're having fun, and even sometimes when you 
are not. Out of the corner of her eye, Sam watched the colonel tiptoe in 
Daniel's direction. She couldn't keep the small smile from spreading 
across her face. Those two - when they weren't disagreeing about 
everything under the sun, they were acting like schoolchildren. 

A wave of cold suddenly flooded through her, accompanied by a very 
unsettling feeling she was being watched. Sam rapidly scanned the 
encroaching wilderness before her eyes came to rest on her third 
comrade. Teal'c, silent as ever, watched her with an impassive 
statement. Relief flooded through her and she gave him a good morning 
smile. 

"Rahhh!" the colonel suddenly bellowed, breaking the silence. 

"Ahhh!" Daniel's yelp was not far behind as he flew into the air, full 
consciousness returning rather abruptly. 

Sam turned her head to see Daniel's descent back to the ground, his face 
flashing from shock to irritation in a heartbeat. Sam braced herself for 
the impending argument and shared a knowing look with Teal'c. As she 
predicted, Daniel reacted strongly to the colonel's morning mischief 

"Jack! I don't know why you insist on being such a child! Usually I can 
handle it, but God, I haven't even had my coffee yet! I..." Daniel 
spluttered angrily. 

"Oh, Daniel, lighten up!" the colonel cut in. "We're on a routine 
mission on a boring planet and I was just having a little fun. You 
should try it some time. Really, you gotta learn to relax! I consider it 
my duty as C.O. to teach you how to have fun." 

"Fun? You think scaring someone half to death is fun? And, technically, 
since I am not military you are not my C.O., are you? Here's another 
thing..." Daniel paused for a breath and pointed a finger emphatically 
at the colonel in preparation for a long-winded rebuttal. 

Sam saw her opportunity and grabbed it. "Uh, I hate to break up your 
little conversation, Sir. Daniel. But we should get going. We only have 
a couple of days here and I still have a lot of samples to gather. And," 
she looked pointedly at Daniel, "We have that temple the UAV picked up 
to explore." 

"Indeed." Teal'c joined her. "The days here do appear to be shorter than 
on most planets we visit. We should use the daylight hours efficiently." 

"Teal'c's right. It's not winter, and yet the days are as short as if it 
was the middle of December. I wonder if it may have something to do with 
the presence of dual moons..." Sam mused. She looked up for a second to 
a bevy of blank stares. "Okay. I'm going to go to the stream to get 
water for the coffee. Can I trust you guys to behave?" 

Daniel smiled brilliantly at her. The prospect of coffee could do 
wonders for the team morale. Sam left the men at the camp and made her 
way to the water, hearing the colonel and Daniel resume their 
disagreement, somewhat more light-heartedly. 

                         *******************

"So you didn't hear anything last night either, Daniel?" the colonel 
queried. 

"No. My watch was extremely uneventful for a change. I even had a 
difficult time staying awake, actually," Daniel replied. 

The colonel turned to Teal'c. "Any thoughts?" 

"I am not certain the lack of nocturnal activity is atypical, O'Neill. 
It would seem, however, that a planet with long nights would have 
significantly more species functioning during those hours," Teal'c 
intoned. 

"Huh?" the colonel muttered. "Never mind. I just think it's odd we 
haven't come across any creatures going bump in the night." 

"That's what he said, Jack." Daniel grinned. "Well, we haven't seen any 
evidence this is currently a Goa'uld planet, but it could have been at 
one time. Is it possible they somehow 'modified' the life forms to suit 
some strange Goa'uld master pla...ah." He trailed off as he saw the 
colonel's and Teal'c's identically raised eyebrows. "Too far out there? 
Yeah." 

A startled cry from the direction of the stream made all three jump to 
their feet and begin running without conscious thought. Teal'c easily 
outdistanced his human friends, halting at the edge of the stream, staff 
weapon armed and ready to fire at potential danger. Not far behind, 
Colonel O'Neill stopped easily and began to ask Sam what was going on 
when Daniel made his grand entrance, bowling into the older man with 
monster truck force. Arms and legs pretzeled as they tumbled down the 
embankment and plopped into the muddy bank. 

The colonel spat out a large amount of mud before exclaiming, "For 
crying out loud, Daniel! Do we need to put you through basic training 
again? Damnit! I think I twisted my knee..." 

"Uh, Jack?" the younger man tugged his sleeve and pointed warily at the 
cluster of seven decidedly unfriendly women aiming spears and bows 
directly at them. The women scowled at them ferociously beneath helmets 
of animal skulls, bones and feathers. Highly toned muscles glistened 
under the scant covering of animal skin serving as clothing. Teeth bared 
in aggressive snarls told SG1 these were warriors not to be trifled 
with. 

"Oh, crap!" the older man sighed. "Not a boring, uninhabited planet 
after all." He pushed himself up on his elbows and wiped the mud from 
his eyes. 

"Nice, guys. I appreciate the assist." Sam couldn't resist, turning to 
glare at both her team and the women. 

"I like your clowns," one of the women said, "but they really should not 
be allowed to carry weapons. They will put them down before we put 
*them* down." 

Jack and Daniel untangled themselves and rose. Taking the not so subtle 
hint, both eased their guns to the ground and raised their hands 
passively. Teal'c also lowered his weapon. His eyes did not leave the 
women or their weapons as he gently laid his staff down. 

Sam gaped in shock as the women examined the three male members of SG1 
as though they were objects. She could practically see seven pairs of 
eyes undressing them mentally. Irate, Sam looked back to the rest of her 
team and noted the colonel's wince and Daniel's glasses had gone AWOL 
during the tumble down the slope. They were in no position to put up any 
resistance. 

The visual examination of the men ended suddenly and the women closed in 
around them. 

"Hey, princess, get your hands offa me!" the colonel belted immediately, 
batting at the inquisitive hands poking and prodding him. "I'm not a 
piece of meat!" 

Meanwhile, Daniel attempted to converse with a young, dark haired woman 
who seemed surprised he could speak at all and appalled that he did. His 
attempts faltered when he caught the women's reactions to the colonel's 
tirade. Sam saw their faces collectively scowl more and more deeply at 
the colonel's words. 

"Jack, I, uh, don't think you should..." 

"Quiet! Men do not speak but to ask of our needs!" a booming female 
voice interrupted, addressing Sam. 

"Truly, your men are unruly. You should keep tighter rein on them. And 
this one," she indicated Teal'c with a disgusted sneer, "Is far too 
physically fit for our liking." 

"Too physically fit? Geez, I'll never figure out what women want. I'm 
insulted you didn't notice my buff physique..." the colonel muttered, 
promptly receiving a heavy blow for his insolence. He plummeted once 
again into the mud. Daniel grabbed his arm and hauled him back up, 
eyeing the already red mark on the colonel's jaw and the equally red 
look in his eyes. 

"I said silence, slave!" the leader continued. "I am Themina, Queen of 
the Amazons. Artemis must be pleased with us to send us new...stock. Our 
current slaves are becoming weak." She towered over six feet tall, 
impressively sculpted biceps flexing as she twirled her battle-axe 
threateningly. Fierce, deeply set brown eyes blazed with anger at the 
men. 

Sam heard Daniel's sharp intake of breath. This wasn't good. From what 
little she knew of the Amazon legend on Earth, Sam knew men never 
received 'most favored nation' status in their realm. She had to make 
them know her friends were not her slaves. 

"Whoa! Fresh stock? I don't think you understand..." Sam began, the 
gasps of the six remaining Amazons quieting her. Themina glowered over 
her, a good half a foot taller than Sam's own significant height.. She 
had overstepped her bounds. She wished for one manic moment Daniel were 
a woman so he could talk them out of this. "Okay. I'm sorry. Let me 
start over. My name is Major Samantha Carter. These men are..." 

"Samantha Carter. You must be a warrior of great strength. Your men are 
fine specimens; even the young, skinny one has redeemable attributes. 
Because of this, I will allow you to speak to me as an equal," Themina 
proclaimed as if she had bestowed a great honor. 

"Great, but you aren't listening! They are not my slaves. We are a 
te..." Sam attempted again. She saw Themina was still not focusing on 
her words, she and her warriors continuing their appraisal of the 
colonel, Daniel and Teal'c. 

"Not your slaves? Then you will not mind if we add them to our stock. 
The mating season begins tomorrow. Artemis' timing is fortuitous 
indeed!" Themina postulated. "We will feast in Her honor once again and 
determine what we shall trade you in return." 

"Sam, maybe you should just go along with them," Daniel whispered, 
apparently having learned nothing by the colonel's example. "Artemis 
is..." 

"Silence, whelp! How dare you address a woman in such a familiar 
manner!" Themina shouted as she backhanded him powerfully. He flew back 
a couple of feet from the force of the blow, landing with a thud. The 
colonel and Teal'c rushed to his side to provide what silent aid they 
could. Sam hesitated to help, not knowing whether or not it would be 
beneficial. 

"Aww, look how the bigger ones look out for the little one. It's very 
endearing," The dark haired girl Daniel had previously spoken with 
snidely commented. Laughter rippled through the air at the plight of the 
men. 

Daniel groaned quietly and rubbed his cheekbone, which was already 
displaying spectacular discoloration. He and the colonel would have 
matching trophies from this mission. Sam just hoped the minor bruises 
would be the extent of the damage done. Daniel glared at the women, but 
wisely held his tongue, communicating to Sam with his eyes instead. Sam 
received his warning signals and returned them with an understanding nod 
and blink. She knew nothing about Artemis, but the Amazon's current 
antagonistic and hostile behavior was information enough for her to 
momentarily set aside her anger at the treatment of the rest of her 
team. 

Sam watched as the Amazons pulled Jack and Daniel away from Teal'c, 
pinning their arms roughly behind them and securing them snugly with 
rope. Daniel tried not to wince as the young Amazon took the opportunity 
to spit in his face, presumably for daring to speak to her earlier. With 
both men now posing little threat, the women moved toward Teal'c. They 
appeared slightly apprehensive, an attitude Sam attributed to the 
Jaffa's large build and confident air. 

Disregarding the 'men don't speak' rule, he announced, "I will come 
freely." 

Haughty glares met his statement, as though there was never any doubt. 
No hands were raised, however. 

"This way." The dark haired girl guided them. "To our village." 

Themina indicated Sam should join her at point, wrapping her arm around 
Sam's shoulders as if they were old friends. Sam swallowed her 
misgivings as she was led into the dense underbrush, the grunts of her 
teammates ringing in her ears. 

                         *******************

"Argh!" the colonel grumbled as he, Teal'c and Daniel were tossed 
unceremoniously into a poorly constructed shack on the outskirts of the 
hidden Amazon village. They had been dragged through the woods for 
hours, given no water or rest. 

"You'd think 'fresh stock' would receive better treatment!" 

Raucous laughter was heard in response as the door was slammed, fading 
away as the women moved further into their village. 

"Daniel," the colonel said with a questioning lilt, taking in their 
accommodations. While tossed together with no great skill, the shack was 
relatively sound. The hard clay floor would prevent escape via tunnel. 
The colonel sighed with consternation and rubbed his sore arms. 

"Jack?" Daniel returned. 

"Have you any information to relay concerning our predicament?" the 
colonel questioned, knowing full well Daniel would have figured out a 
good deal from Themina and her gang, both during the initial 
conversation and the subsequent journey. He estimated they had traveled 
at least ten kilometers, roughly in the direction of the temple Daniel 
was excited to explore. 

"Well, Themina mentioned they were Amazons, which I am sure you are 
familiar with." Daniel sighed and massaged his neck wearily. 

Jack nodded. He couldn't help but think of Amazons a la Xena with a 
grin. TV special effects had to be responsible for her skills. Surely, 
no real person could possess... 

"Teal'c?" 

"I recall several legends told among the Jaffa of a race of powerful 
woman warriors, whose battle skills challenged that of the Jaffa. They 
were said to be followers of Artemis, a lesser Goa'uld in Cronus' 
system. Artemis herself was aligned with the moon, hunting and 
agriculture," Teal'c related. 

"Yes, that sounds about right. What I am concerned with, though, is 
Artemis was also considered a virgin goddess. Chastity was an esteemed 
quality and any man attempting to violate that virginity would be 
punished severely," Daniel summed up. 

"That was also true of the Goa'uld Artemis," Teal'c confirmed. 

"Wonder what could be construed as a violation?" Jack pondered. 
"Although I don't think I'd really want to push any Amazon buttons. If 
virginity is so cool, how the heck to baby Amazons make it into the 
world?" He looked at Daniel expectantly. Despite the grimness of the 
situation, Jack couldn't keep his sarcastic wit under rein. 

"Obviously, a society made up entirely of women would eventually cease 
to exist. For a short period, the Amazons would mate with men from 
neighboring villages to ensure this would not occur. Male babies from 
such couplings were either killed outright or sent back to their 
fathers. Themina mentioned that period begins tomorrow. I don't know 
about you, but I really don't want to stick around for a hands on 
demonstration." Daniel's eyebrows quirked, accentuating the meaning of 
his words. 

"Tell me about it," the colonel said as he searched their prison for a 
means of escape. "I'm guessing they don't play nice. Did you see some of 
the other men? They look like they've had their arms and legs broken 
multiple times. Doesn't appear these particular ladies want to take the 
time to raid villages--they just keep their pets easily accessible." 

"Oh, yeah. There has always been speculation the Amazons mutilated their 
male servants to keep them subservient and to exert their control and 
power over them. I'd say if these men are any example, that theory is 
confirmed." 

"I so did not want to hear that, Daniel," Jack groaned. "I wonder how 
Carter is doing?" 

"I am confident Major Carter will be successful in negotiating our 
freedom," Teal'c said. 

All three looked at each other uneasily. 

                         *******************

"No disrespect is meant, Themina, but nothing you have will be enough to 
trade my...slaves to you!" Sam argued for the umpteenth time. She was 
beginning to think she'd be better off banging her head against the 
wall. She already capitulated and allowed herself to refer to the 
colonel, Teal'c and Daniel as slaves, hoping this would help sway the 
Amazon Queen to be more favorable. If anything, her arguments seemed to 
hinder the 'negotiation'. 

"Samantha. Really, I do not understand the difficulty you are having. 
Are you not willing to share the wealth Artemis has bestowed upon you 
with your sisters?" Themina chided. "We will wait until Selene arrives 
to discuss this further. She is more adept at the politics of domestic 
affairs. Come, drink with us until she arrives." 

Sam sighed with frustration and glared at her surroundings. The Amazons 
had brought her to the center of the village, to a large meeting hall. 
Inside, tables abounding with food were lined up at the front, smaller 
tables for seating filled the remainder of the hall. The walls were 
decorated with animal skins, stag heads and various weapons. Homey. 

"Try our mead. Lydia has perfected the fermentation process. You will 
like it so much, it may play a big factor in our upcoming trade," 
Themina gloated, indicating the young dark haired Amazon who had led 
them on their trek to the village. "You will sit with us at the head 
during the festivities." 

Sam's ire increased. She was never going to convince the Amazons her 
friends were not her property. Or convince them they were, but she 
didn't want to trade them. She caught the gleam in Themina's eyes as she 
argued their value to her. A sick feeling settled in the pit of her 
stomach, realization forming a basketball sized lump there. Had she made 
things worse for the guys? Themina looked downright hungry at the 
thought of getting her hands on such highly prized possessions. 

Before she could dwell too long on that unpleasant thought, Sam heard a 
new voice enter the conversation. "Themina! What have you brought for 
us?" 

Sam turned toward the entrance to see a fair-haired woman enter the 
meeting hall. She was slighter than Themina in build, but still quite 
impressive. Blue eyes glittered with anticipation as she scanned Sam 
quickly, making a rough and instant judgment. Sam squirmed under the 
inspection, discomfort with this entire situation notching up yet 
another level. 

"Selene. Come join us! This is Samantha Carter, a warrior of great 
skill. She brings to us three new slaves of high quality. You will be 
impressed, no doubt," Themina answered her peer. 

Selene's eyes narrowed as she took in Sam's appearance, pausing at great 
length at her blonde head. 

"I see you are also blessed by Artemis with red hair," she managed, 
uttering the words lowly. She appeared unreasonably disturbed by the 
simple fact. 

"Red?" Sam mumbled. Hadn't Daniel said the Greeks and Romans called all 
lighter shades of hair 'red'? She decided to play along. "Uh, I 
guess...with a little help from L'Oreal. Because I'm worth it..." 

Her joke went unappreciated, and Selene managed to regain some semblance 
of self-control. She tilted her head graciously and spoke, "I would like 
to hear how you acquired such fine stock; you do not seem to be 
overly... physical. Then I will determine for myself their worth." 

Sam ground her teeth and picked up a mug of mead to disguise her 
displeasure. She was surprisingly offended by Selene's implication she 
wasn't woman enough to have three slaves. She swallowed the nasty 
concoction and braced herself for another round of arguments. 

                         *******************

Daniel sat on the end of his rough cot, rubbing at his bruised arms 
anxiously. Jack seemed to ceaselessly move around the cramped quarters. 
Between the motion and the anticipation of what their fates would be, 
Daniel's nerves were worn threadbare. 

"Can't you stand still for one minute?" Daniel complained quietly. 

Jack stopped pacing momentarily to look pointedly at Daniel, head 
cocked. "Nope." 

Teal'c's brow rose slightly, observing his companions from a darkened 
corner appearing slightly disturbed. Daniel shot him a quick look and 
opened his mouth again to retort, but the door swung open roughly before 
he had the chance. Lydia stalked into the room, followed closely by Sam. 

"Rise, slave! Why do you not stand in the presence of your betters?" 
Lydia made to strike Daniel with her spear. Daniel shrank back slightly 
and Teal'c broke from the shadows, without seemingly moving. 

Jack growled lowly in his throat and Daniel knew he wanted to strike 
back, or at least lash out with his tongue. Thankfully, the older man 
remained silent. Sam pushed past the girl and Jack relaxed noticeably. 
Daniel felt his hopes raise at her appearance. 

"You may leave," Sam said sharply to the younger woman. 

Lydia backed out slowly, bowing her head slightly. She remained just 
outside the door, Daniel noted, as he heard no footsteps and her shadow 
cast a telltale sign. He was distracted slightly by his improved 
tracking skills, and wasn't aware Sam was speaking to them. 

"Daniel, Daniel! Did you hear a word of what I just said?" Sam 
exasperated, grabbing his shoulders and shaking him like a small child. 

"Um, sorry Sam. I was..." 

"No time. She'll be back in a minute, they don't really trust me," she 
interrupted brusquely. 

"What's the plan?" Jack asked, apparently as eager as Daniel to get this 
holiday-from-hell over and done with. 

"Well, tomorrow night, there is going to be a big feast in Artemis' 
honor, something to do with the phases of the twin moons and an annual 
festival of some sort..." 

Daniel winced, both moons full at the same time? Why hadn't he noticed 
that? That would make the festival doubly important. And dangerous. He 
opened his mouth to inform the others, but Sam glared ferociously at him 
and his jaw snapped shut reflexively. 

"I've been made guest of honor and apparently the Queen of all the 
tribes will soon be here. Themina holds the greatest power in this 
village, but this Leyda controls all the villages to some extent. She's 
Artemis' right hand woman - probably a Jaffa or maybe even a Goa'uld. 
She comes peacefully for trade only at this feast. The rest of the year 
all the tribes are in a state of semi-war, and are very territorial. 
Selene said Themina is angling for 'most favored ally' of Leyda so she 
has a chance to succeed her and she'll want to offer her a tribute..." 

"No. That is not what I wanted to hear! Can't you do anything?!" Jack 
was practically scream-whispering. 

"I'm sorry, Sir! She won't listen! I'm trying my best..." Sam sputtered. 

"Then I suggest you go back and bring the SG-3 Marines! I am not staying 
here!" 

"Didn't you tell her you don't want to trade?" Daniel hissed. 

"Yes! Do you think I'm enjoying this? I'm not the diplomat here!" 

"Oh man, of all the screwed up planets to visit..." Jack growled, 
turning his back to them. 

"Jack..." Daniel was getting hoarse from the forced hushed tones. 

"And what are you implying, Sir?" Sam's voice was dangerously low. "This 
is no worse than certain, male-oriented worlds we've seen. The only 
difference is you get to be dragged around by your hair. At least they 
haven't made you put on some awful native clothing and parade around!" 

"I am leaving. I will be back in the morning, but for now, I am 
sleeping," she turned on her heel. 

                         *******************

Sam left the shack, slamming the door with such strength the entire 
building shook. Jack, Teal'c and Daniel once again looked at each other 
uneasily. 

"Jack, did Sam seem a bit out of character just then?" Daniel hesitantly 
asked. "I mean, I realize it's probably been hard for her to deal with 
this whole situation, but it's not like her to..." 

"Daniel, what are you trying to say? She's not putting forth her best 
effort?" Jack demanded hotly. 

"No, that's not what I'm saying at all!! And it's not like you instilled 
her with confidence. Let's see if I can remember correctly... 'Then I 
suggest you go back and bring the SG-3 marines!'." Daniel did his finest 
Colonel Jack O'Neill impression. 

"Oh, for crying out loud! I wasn't trying to say she couldn't handle it 
by herself," Jack groaned. 

"It would appear that is the impression Major Carter received, O'Neill," 
Teal'c voiced, not liking the animosity between his two companions. "I 
believe Daniel Jackson is saying normally your comments would not prompt 
Major Carter to react as strongly as she did." 

"Exactly! Sam usually tolerates your remarks without so much as a 
flinch. It's almost as though simply being around the Amazons has 
somehow, I don't know, rubbed off on her." 

"Great! So you're saying Carter might have been compromised in some way? 
If that turns out to be the case, I have a feeling we are in big 
trouble," Jack surmised. "Remember what she said about the Queen needing 
a tribute? If Carter's not going to be able to help us, then we'll have 
to come up with something." 

"What do you suggest we do, O'Neill? I do not believe we will be 
released from this building unless sufficiently guarded. I estimate I 
could fight three, perhaps four at a time, but you and Daniel Jackson 
would have difficulty with even one," Teal'c stated matter of factly. 

"Thanks for that. Nothing builds up the ego like being beaten by a 
girl," Jack sarcastically commented. 

"Jack, he's right and you know it!" Daniel said, exasperated. "We need 
to find a way for at least one of us to make it back to the Stargate." 

The three men stopped talking, silently agreeing on this tactic and set 
about trying to come up with a viable plan. 

                         *******************

She sat up half the night drinking that vile mead for the sake of 
appearances - to avoid alienating herself from the Amazons. She was 
tired. Her head throbbed. And yet she had put aside her own personal 
needs to see to her friends. What did she get in return? Question as to 
her abilities. Complete disrespect. 

Sam fumed all the way to the hut Themina had provided for her. Her head 
throbbed mercilessly with each step she took, adding to her irritation. 
She thought she had gained the respect she deserved from the colonel a 
long time ago, but he was acting like he didn't trust her any further 
than he could throw her. And Daniel! His blatant lack of faith stung her 
acutely. He was always the one to lend support when she needed it, but 
now he doubted her ability as much as the colonel did. Only Teal'c 
hadn't demonstrated contempt for her skills. 

By the time she reached her abode, Sam had worked herself into an 
excited and energized state. She crept onto her cot, but tossed and 
turned fitfully until she gave up. She needed to work off this energy if 
she had a prayer of any sleep. 

Normally, she'd head to the gym for a couple of rounds at a punching 
bag. She stumbled into her boots and out the door, a little surprised to 
see how much activity was going on in the village. She headed to the 
meeting hall to ask Themina where she could go to work out. 

Sam stepped through the door of the meeting hall to find Selene and 
Themina still drinking mead and laughing jovially. She couldn't help but 
wonder at the length of the actual festival would last, if the pre-
celebration lasted this long! 

"Excuse me, I don't mean to intrude," Sam began quietly at first, "but 
I'm feeling the need for some physical activity..." 

"Ah, Samantha!" Themina crooned. "Are you seeking new flesh? Your slaves 
have become tiresome to you? Lydia! Bring Marcus." Themina drunkenly 
grinned at Sam. 

"Oh, God! No!" Sam immediately corrected. "I just feel like a bit of 
exercise. By myself." 

A small, but shocking part of her responded enthusiastically to 
Themina's suggestion, however. Especially when Marcus was brought before 
her. The slave was young and had once been attractive, his strong 
features now marred by numerous scars, his dark eyes dull and lifeless. 
Sam could certainly assert her strength upon him. 

As the thoughts swirled around in her head, Sam was sickened by them. 
What was happening to her? Had she really been considering raping this 
poor man? She needed that punching bag. Now. 

                         *******************

Jack resumed his hobbling, as he, Daniel and Teal'c all attempted to 
find a good way out of their situation. Daniel lay sprawled on a cot, 
his left arm flung over his eyes to block out any distraction and Teal'c 
had placed himself in Kel no'reem. 

The situation could safely be called desperate. Jack had a gut feeling 
the 'tribute' for this Leyda either didn't survive the length of the day 
- or did and wished he hadn't. He paused his pacing to study his two 
companions. He wasn't concerned for Teal'c. No matter whom they 
designated as the runner, Teal'c would be okay. 

Daniel though - it could get ugly for him. And for himself, he admitted. 
He already knew he wouldn't be going anywhere. The team leader does not 
leave anyone behind. Besides, his knee really did hurt. 

"Jack." 

The voice made him start. "Geez, Daniel! Give a guy a heart attack, why 
don't ya?!" 

"Sorry." Daniel grinned, not sorry a bit. "I've been thinking and the 
only thing I can come up with is not good." 

"Spit it out, Daniel." 

"Okay. Well, you know how I said before that chastity is a highly 
esteemed virtue? Might a good distraction be if one or two of us 
threatened one of them..." 

"You're kidding, right? Can't you think of anything that would not 
result in physical abuse?" 

"I told you it wasn't good! But I can't think of anything else that 
would attract as much attention to the offender, can you?" Daniel 
challenged. "Hey, it's not like I want to get beaten up!" 

"I also do not like the idea, O'Neill, but cannot think of an 
alternative." Teal'c's deep voice startled both of them. 

"Ack! Teal'c don't do that!!" 

"I am sorry, O'Neill," Teal'c apologized. "I have also determined I have 
the greatest likelihood of success in such an escape attempt. The 
individual selected to go will have to travel to our former campsite to 
obtain a GDO, and it was several hours from the Stargate." 

"Oh, damn. I forgot about that. Do we know if the Amazons just left it 
there? They could have gone back and grabbed our stuff for all we know!" 
This was getting worse and worse. 

"Well, Sam would know. She should be back to check up on us soon." 
Daniel looked at his watch. "In the meantime, we can try to work out the 
details of this...plan." 

"Right," Jack sighed. He wished fervently this planet had remained 
boring. 

                         *******************

Themina showed Sam the Amazon training area, which was equipped with an 
assortment of endurance...machines? Sam's eyes wandered around before 
settling on a familiar object - the punching bag, universal tool for any 
real gym. Not needing anything else, Sam thanked Themina and began a 
vigorous boxing session. 

With each punch, Sam's headache seemed to dissipate. The more 
aggressively she attacked the bag, the better she felt! The scientific 
Sam wondered about this phenomenon, but soon that portion of her brain 
was disregarded and she saw only the bag. Her punches became brutal as 
she began imagining it was the colonel's face she was pummeling. Then 
Daniel's. 

                         *******************

"Damnit, I thought she was going to come back sooner than this. She 
knows we need to get out of here before the big hoo-haa starts!" Jack 
ranted, lack of sleep and food influencing his mood. The Amazons hadn't 
even hinted they'd be fed before the festival began. Why give them 
strength? 

They had spent the better part of the night devising their great escape. 
Which sadly consisted of he and Daniel groping a couple of the Amazons. 
They were hoping the punishment would be lessened if the focus were on 
two rather than one. Their plan sucked. But it was all they had, 
provided Sam could confirm the location of the GDOs. 

"I'm sure she's coming, Jack. Getting upset about it really won't help." 

"Thank you, Zen master." Jack retorted, rolling his eyes. 

Daniel's reply was cut off when Carter abruptly barged into the hut. She 
looked awful - hair unkempt, huge dark circles under her eyes, clothes 
sweaty and soiled. Her eyes flashed angrily at her three teammates, and 
it was apparent to them she had not slept at all. Behind her trailed 
five warriors. 

"Sam! Finally! We've been hoping you'd get here!" Daniel exclaimed, 
leaping to his feet. 

To everyone's utter shock, Carter responded by backhanding him on his 
already bruised cheek. Unprepared for the assault, Daniel stumbled back. 
Teal'c reached out and caught him before he could fall. 

"Carter, what the hell are you doing?!" Jack yelled. He grabbed her arm 
before she could deliver another blow. 

She turned on him quickly. "You! You arrogant, half-witted jackass! Get 
your hands off me!" 

Before Jack knew it, Carter hauled back her right fist and swung back 
with an adrenaline infused arm. Jack's head snapped back, blood spurting 
from his mouth. 

Stunned, he simply looked at her, swiping the back of his right hand 
across his mouth. He cringed as he saw the crimson stain. Instinct 
screamed kick or get kicked, but reason shouted equally loudly that this 
was Carter, his second in command. Damnit, his friend. The internal 
battle held him long 0enough for a young lackey to smack him between the 
shoulder blades with her staff and deliver a swift kick to his wounded 
knee. 

Sinking to the ground, he saw Daniel stumble forward hesitantly before 
his old friend darkness told him how nice it was to see him again so 
soon. 

                         *******************

Daniel's mouth unhinged as he saw Sam hit Jack violently, and he 
automatically made to go forward to assist him. His mind forced him to 
stop, warning of painful retribution and a realization one of them 
should appear co-operative to keep their chances of survival stable. If 
he didn't fight them, maybe they wouldn't be killed outright. He was 
forced to helplessly watch Jack slump to the hard clay floor. 

Teal'c pushed past the blockade of enraged warriors, knocking several 
flying as he did, alerting Daniel this seemed as good an opportunity 
they would get for executing their plan. Daniel just hoped it would 
work. They could really use some luck right about now. And Teal'c looked 
like he could use some assistance. Tapping into his waning energy 
reserves, Daniel shouted out, waving his arms to distract the women, 
"Hey! Over here!" 

Startled by his lame outburst, the women glanced up from their battle 
with the large Jaffa long enough for him to break fully from them and 
escape through the door. Daniel watched with anticipation, praying 
silently Teal'c would not be stopped. 

The makeshift plan fell apart when Daniel realized he had no plan past 
the distraction and options for dealing with five, very angry, very 
*armed* women were few and far between. He gulped, raised his hands and 
backed up until he hit the wall, glancing quickly at the unconscious 
colonel before the women closed in around him. 

                         *******************

Teal'c ran through the dark woods, listening for signs of pursuit. He 
couldn't hear any now, but knew the Amazons would be expert trackers and 
they would be coming soon. Using the bright glow of the twin moons to 
guide him, Teal'c slowed to a steady, sustainable pace. 

The night was drawing in, but at least there were no indigenous life 
forms to contend with. Teal'c hated to leave his comrades in such a 
terrible situation, but he knew he would be of greater assistance to 
them if he could get word to the SGC. He greatly feared for Major 
Carter's safety as well. Daniel Jackson's observations of her behavior 
did indeed appear accurate and Teal'c hoped the Amazons had not done 
permanent harm to her. Best to leave such speculation to those who knew 
more about such things. He would bring assistance through and his 
friends would receive the medical attention they needed. Teal'c hoped 
they wouldn't need much, but judging from the men already residing in 
the village they would if he was not successful... 

                         *******************

It was dark. Dark and... not quiet. There were noises, muffled and 
distant. Jack knew he should wake up, shake off the blanket. The nice 
warm blanket he could hide underneath, hide from all the troubles, all 
the responsibilities... 

No. He couldn't hide; there were things that needed to be done, people 
who needed him... 

"Daniel!" 

Jack immediately regretted getting up *quite* so quickly. His head felt 
like he'd met a freight train straight on, and the room spun crazily. 
Cradling his aching head, he looked around. He'd been moved into yet 
another crude hut. It was slightly smaller than their previous 
accommodations. Fabulous! He'd been booked into a private suite, 
complete with one plush, cozy cot and...that's it. 

There was no indication Daniel or Teal'c had ever been with him. Maybe 
both of them got away? Right. 

He stumbled about the small room drunkenly, pain in his right knee 
shooting all the way into his lower back. Not good at all. He was barely 
mobile, alone, and surrounded by women. Every man's fantasy, except he 
wanted out. 

Jack collapsed on the hard cot and pondered his options. It didn't take 
long, as he couldn't think of any. 

"Hey! Sheba! She-Ra! Wonder Woman! Anyone?" he called futilely. Not 
surprisingly, there was no response. 

These women preferred the silence. Women... Carter... Jack groaned, 
recalling their last 'conversation'.. He hadn't hit her. Instead, he'd 
stood staring dumbly at her. That moment of indecision, of weakness, had 
probably cost him any ground he'd had. He should've restrained her, 
should've taken control of the situation better. If he had, his team 
would still be together. He could've taken Carter back and gotten her 
seen to, could've kept Daniel safe... 

But he hadn't. Instead, he had held back. Was it because they were 
close? Would he have hit Daniel, if the positions had been different? He 
would've had no trouble hitting any other man under his command, or even 
a superior, come to think of it. Damnit! Jack kicked himself as he 
realized half the problem was that his Major was a woman. 

He *tried* to treat her the same as he would any other member of his 
team. Most of the time, he didn't even think of her like that, not while 
they were working. Hadn't she done enough to earn his respect? Didn't 
she deserve to be treated the same when she wasn't herself? 

Jack groaned again. Waiting it out now seemed to be his only option. 

                         *******************

Daniel looked around the room he'd been 'escorted' into. His guides 
hadn't been all that friendly and he had no idea *where* here was. Or 
where Jack was. Or if Teal'c was still out there somewhere. Or if Sam 
was okay. 

He winced and lightly probed his swollen cheekbone, telling himself 
never to get in a fistfight with Sam again. She packed quite a punch. 

"Hmm, Themina was right." 

Daniel struggled not to stare at the woman entering the room. Something 
about the way she was slinking in set off every alarm in Daniel's head. 

"She also said you were talkative, 'impudent and undisciplined', were 
the words I think she used." She closed in, circling him to look from 
all angles. "What's the matter? Bit through your tongue?" 

Daniel took a deep breath and tried to make his cheeks pale through 
sheer effort of will, they burned hotly and proclaimed his discomfort 
more readily than a flashing sign. "No, I learned others would do that 
for me. Where are my friends?" 

Selene ignored his question. She reached up to his face and studied the 
impressive bruise that was closing his eye. "Ah, so I can see. Sister 
Samantha *has* been letting you run loose. You can be assured I will not 
make the same mistake." 

Daniel might have taken a few blows, but it didn't take his years of 
linguistic training to spot the pure venom dripping from her voice as 
she uttered Sam's name. His eyes narrowed as he wondered what Sam had 
done to anger this woman so much. He eyed her, confused. Selene was a 
rather slim woman and not the sort of person who earned respect amongst 
such bloodthirsty cultures, she stood out somehow and yet... 

"In case you were wondering, my name is Selene. But you will refrain 
from addressing me as such," Selene explained. "Samantha told me you 
would be the one most likely to talk, she said you were the one most 
prepared to answer my questions and to ask some of your own. Obviously, 
she was wrong." 

"Oh, so you think you can turn the volume on and off when you like?" He 
blurted irritably before he could stop himself. Selene looked surprised 
and delighted. 

"I understand my sisters have been less than willing to listen. Come, 
eat with me," she purred. 

Daniel stared after her. This was obviously some trick, or some new 
tactic. Despite her friendly words, he could sense the underlying 
selfish nature. She reminded him of somebody... some politician? Had she 
developed her weird tact in self-preservation? 

Daniel followed her, not having much choice in the matter. He could see 
it now. Jack would explode with a 'What? You get knocked about a bit and 
get dragged into the castle *again*?' 

Maybe he could negotiate something, gain her trust, do *something*.... 
Even if he totally failed on that count, he needed to eat, the last meal 
had been his favorite. MREs cooked over an open fire. Somehow, Daniel 
felt he would need all the strength he could get. 

                         *******************

Teal'c quietly observed the abandoned campsite, searching for any sign 
of the Amazons. He feared they had gone back during his captivity and 
retrieved the team's supplies. It appeared to be untouched, but Teal'c 
knew appearances could be deceiving. He circled the campsite to view it 
from all directions. Not satisfied with a purely visual assessment, he 
broke off a large branch and prodded each backpack apprehensively. He 
was not pleased to have to waste precious time, but could not risk 
capture. Jaffa legends had portrayed the Amazons as a formidable race 
and they were not to be underestimated. 

Taking a final glance around him, Teal'c dropped the branch and 
proceeded toward the nearest pack. Fear for the rest of SG1 overrode 
caution and he grabbed it quickly. Nothing. The Amazons had not returned 
to the campsite. 

He opened the pack, intending to remove only the GDO, leaving the 
remainder of the contents to quicken his journey back to the Stargate. 
He grasped the GDO, but before he could move, he felt a surge similar to 
a Zat blast pulse through him. The electric shock paralyzed him in a 
macabre convulsion for endless moments before he fell to his side, 
spasms continuing harshly. As his eyes closed, the last thing Teal'c saw 
were the angry faces of ten women as they closed in on him. 

                         *******************

Daniel kneaded the back of his neck, tense knots had formed during the 
hour he had been conversing with Selene. 

The discussion had not progressed very far - Daniel did not want to 
reveal too much and Selene, it seemed, also wished to keep her motives 
hidden. Daniel felt like a prized pig, having been fed and watered for 
what he knew would ultimately lead to a slaughter, metaphorical or 
actual. 

Selene circled him like a shark, watching his every movement, catching 
every word, every gesture. Daniel rolled his eyes as she stopped behind 
him and stroked his hair menacingly. He felt impotent and out of 
control. He noted her voice always remained very low and soothing. 
Either she was trying to coerce Daniel to co-operate fully or she didn't 
want anyone to know she was speaking to him. Daniel suspected it was a 
combination of the two. 

He unconsciously shrugged away from her touch, and her fist gripped his 
head in response. Daniel stiffened for a moment before forcing himself 
to relax. Up until this point, Selene had posed no direct physical 
threat. He didn't want that to change, but he could not refrain from 
asking again, "When can I see my friends?" 

She laughed at him cruelly and swatted his head almost playfully. "Oh, 
you are persistent, aren't you? You should consider yourself very 
fortunate to be alive right now. Any other man would have been beaten to 
death long ago for your lack of co-operation." 

Her tone became decidedly less cordial. "You will see them when I see 
fit. It seems your Jaffa friend is more elusive than anticipated. 
Themina and her warriors are having quite a difficult time retrieving 
him. They will locate him, and when they do he will pay for his 
impudence." 

Daniel swallowed compulsively as he absorbed her words, hoping even more 
adamantly for Teal'c's success. The SGC was not expecting their return 
for a couple more days. He feared none of them had that long. 
Frustration overcame common sense and he burst, "Look, threats will not 
make me open up any quicker. I won't say another word until you let me 
see Jack." 

Selene jerked his head back to face her direction, gripping his jaw 
tightly. Her toothy grin became a snarl. "Fine, Daniel. You seem like an 
intelligent beast. What would you say if I told you I'd give you 
anything you want, including seeing your friends?" 

"I'd say 'What do I have to do?'." 

"Ah! I think the true question is what would you be willing to do to get 
what you want?" Selene gleamed evilly. 

Daniel's stomach twisted violently, the food he'd been given threatening 
to make an unpleasant reappearance. He knew he wouldn't like the answer, 
but had to ask anyway, "What do you want from me, Selene? Enough with 
the cloak and dagger stuff..." 

"I want you to kill Samantha Carter." 

                         *******************

Jack wondered how long he had been in his wonderful new home away from 
home. He could hear no movement outside the hut, but had a feeling it 
was well guarded. His head still throbbed and he could feel other parts 
of his body ache from the earlier assault. Damn Amazons apparently had 
no qualms about kicking a man when he was down. 

His thoughts turned again to his team. Not knowing their fates was 
eating away at him. As worried as he was about Carter's present 
condition, he was fairly sure she would come to no harm from the 
Amazons. They seemed to be quite chummy, actually. 

He shook his head angrily at the reminder of his hesitation to hit her. 
Common sense told him it would have done no good, but the weak spot 
irritated him nonetheless. Thank goodness Teal'c had reacted 
appropriately, taking advantage of the chaotic moment. 

Jack mentally crossed his fingers Teal'c had made it back to the 
Stargate. This situation was rapidly going from shit to hell to shit 
again. He wasn't questioning Teal'c's ability in any way, but these 
women were proving to be quite the adversaries. If Teal'c said the Jaffa 
considered them equals, Jack was sure they'd not let his mission be a 
simple one. Jack forced himself to believe Teal'c was already in contact 
with General Hammond. The alternative was too grim to think about - for 
himself, Teal'c, Carter and...Daniel. 

Where was Daniel?? Jack was most concerned for his young friend. If the 
Amazons had not yet punished him for the fiasco with Carter, might they 
be punishing Daniel right now? Jack glared at the door as though it were 
mocking him - laughing at his inability to do anything to fix this. He 
was sickened to think of what those warriors were doing to Daniel. 
Images of deformed and scarred men flashed through his head. 

No! 

Thoughts like that would do no good. He would find a way out of this. 
Teal'c would bring reinforcements. Carter would come to her senses. And 
Daniel would be just fine. They'd all be just fine. 

Jack's mini pep talk ended when the door flung open and a body was 
tossed in. It crumpled lifelessly on the floor, and Jack strained to see 
if the person was still breathing. He didn't dare move until the door 
was once again slammed shut. 

He rushed to his new roommate and turned him over gently, fear racing 
through his veins. The person had still not made a sound, nor had he 
moved. 

Damn, damn! Shit. 

It was Teal'c, his features barely recognizable. It looked as though 
they had beaten him within an inch of his life. Jack made a fast check 
of his injuries, noting Teal'c's left arm twisted in an unnatural angle. 
When his hands felt along his torso, he could feel three, no four, 
broken ribs. Teal'c's right knee was swollen to almost double it's size 
and along with the collection of bruises on his face, his head had 
several deep cuts oozing blood across his mangled face. 

Jack searched the quarters for anything to aid his friend but found 
nothing, not even water. He stripped off his T-shirt and began tearing 
it for bandages. 

This mission just kept getting worse and worse. 

                         *******************

Sam opened her eyes, refreshed after only a few hours of sleep. She sat 
up and stretched lazily, happy to be among friends at last. The past 
four years of her life had been wasted in the company of men. She looked 
forward with excitement to the evening's festivities, especially the 
tribute to be offered to Leyda. Sam wondered how the search for Teal'c 
was coming and decided to lend a hand if he had not yet been found. 
After all, she had first hand knowledge of the man, as disgusting as 
that seemed at the moment, and it could prove very valuable. 

She peered out of her hut, noticing the hustle and bustle of the village 
as the women prepared for the festival and headed for the meeting hall.. 
As she approached the building, she could hear quiet murmurs emanating 
from it. Curiosity made her stop just outside the door to eavesdrop on 
the occupants. 

"I want you to kill Samantha Carter." 

Anger coursed through Sam at Selene's words. She fought the overwhelming 
urge to break into the hall and attack Selene. She managed to restrain 
herself and listen for the second person's response. Sam assumed it was 
Themina Selene was speaking to, but was shocked and angered further to 
hear Daniel's voice. 

"Oh, is that all you want me to do?" 

Sam heard no more. The blood rushed loudly in her ears and she stormed 
away from the building. So Daniel had managed to sweet talk his way into 
Selene's bed, had he? She raged at the deception the pair of them were 
planning, Selene obviously seeking power over Themina by killing her. 
How did Selene think she could get rid of her by using a weakling like 
Daniel? The humor of the thought interfered with her rage and she began 
to chuckle maniacally. 

She had to find Themina. Sam clutched the arm of a passing Amazon. "Can 
you tell me if the Jaffa has been found?" 

"Yes, he has been. Themina put him in with the old slave, then she went 
to her home to rest for this evening's celebration." 

"Show me." 

                         *******************

"Oh, is that all you want me to do?" Daniel scoffed at the idea. Nothing 
would induce him to harm any of SG1, a fact Selene had not yet 
determined. 

"Sarcasm does not become you, slave," Selene snapped. "You will kill her 
before tonight's feast is concluded. Themina seeks to buy power, but it 
is my right to succeed Leyda. Artemis bestowed *me* with red hair, not 
Themina. All these years I have spent working with that bitch to gain 
rank with Leyda. She will not snatch it away from me now. And the last 
thing I need is another blessed warrior as competition. Samantha Carter 
must be removed before she becomes a threat." 

Daniel listened in shock to Selene's rampage, thankful she was at last 
revealing her intentions. Her eyes blazed with passion/anger and, Daniel 
sensed, something darker. This woman would stop at nothing to reach her 
goal. He wondered if she intended to assassinate either Leyda or Themina 
along with Sam. Sam. 

Daniel scoured his memory banks to come up with anything regarding red 
hair. Nothing. He supposed it really didn't matter if he could remember 
why it was significant. The fact it was was apparent by Selene's 
maddened frenzy. Shuddering slightly, Daniel vowed to refuse 
participation in anything she intended. 

"Are you listening to me, Slavedaniel?" 

He winced at her mutation of his name. 

"Any overt sign of my plans would end in my own execution and I can't 
have that, can I? But if a former slave of Samantha Carter's decides to 
seek revenge upon her by murdering her, no one would question it." 

"I won't do it. Sam is not my master, she is my friend," Daniel angrily 
interrupted, unable to remain silent. 

"You really don't have a choice. Either you kill her, or I kill you." 

To reinforce the sincerity of her threat, Selene's hand clamped around 
Daniel's throat and she squeezed fiercely. Daniel struggled to breathe 
around the vice like grip, but had little success. Dj vu. His head began 
to swim, the room spun crazily and shadows played at the edge of his 
vision. He felt his eyes begin to roll back as his breathing ebbed and 
gray flowed to black. 

                         *******************

Teal'c finally was showing signs of life. The Jaffa moaned disturbingly 
as Jack worked on his wounds, wincing at the pain he was causing his 
friend. He had suffered sympathy pains while Sarah was going through 
labor with Charlie, and he felt something akin to that sensation right 
now. 

He wrapped Teal'c's ribs as best he could, praying there were no 
internal injuries, or if there were that they weren't too severe for 
Junior to fix. Next he moved to Teal'c's knee. It was difficult to tell 
exactly what happened, but Jack unconsciously rubbed his own tender 
knee. They sure made it clear Teal'c would not be participating in any 
marathons in the near future. 

With a small strip of his T-shirt, he gently swabbed the blood off 
Teal'c's battered face. He looked as bad as when Nirrti had attacked him 
and Cronus. The Jaffa flinched reflexively at the touch and moaned once 
again. 

"Sorry, buddy. I'm almost done. I know I don't have Doc Fraiser's 
bedside manner, such that it is, but I'm all you got." 

He wound several strips around Teal'c's head like a turban. The bleeding 
was slowing a bit, which Jack took as a sign Junior was doing his job. 
His hand lingered on Teal'c's bandages and he allowed himself to do 
absolutely nothing but worry. He sighed heavily in grim anticipation of 
his next task. 

Jack inhaled deeply before grasping Teal'c's left shoulder with one hand 
and reaching for his wrist with the other. He'd done this a million 
times - he could do it again. He had to do it again. One last breath and 
Jack twisted Teal'c's arm forcefully back into its natural position. The 
horrendous sound of it seemed to reverberate throughout the small room. 
Teal'c arched his back in pain and moaned piteously, remaining 
thankfully unconscious. 

Jack looked around desperately for something to splint the arm, but 
again came up empty handed. All he could do was hope the women did not 
return to inflict more abuse on them. It was killing him to see Teal'c 
in such pain. 

"Oh, God, Teal'c. I'm so sorry. I never should have gone along with such 
a bad plan. Not that I could have done anything to stop you, what with 
me getting the crap kicked out of me and all, but if I had nixed it from 
the beginning..." Jack stopped. "What am I doing? What's done is done. 
Pissing and moaning will get me nowhere." 

Determined not to let his self-reproach outweigh the need to figure out 
a solution to the current problem, Jack's left leg jostled nervously. If 
only he had someone to bounce ideas off of... 

He sensed a slight change in Teal'c's breathing pattern and crouched 
next to him. He laid his hand on Teal'c's good shoulder and murmured 
softly, "Hey." 

Teal'c turned his head slowly, but didn't say anything. He figured 
Teal'c wouldn't appreciate a molly coddling, so he decided to give him 
the facts. "You've done a couple of ribs in and dislocated your left 
shoulder. Your knee is shot, at least for the time being. I'm not sure 
if you've got any internal injuries." 

"Indeed, I do not believe I have incurred any serious injuries. I will 
recover, but I will need time to recuperate as my symboite attempts to 
heal me. However, I am slightly dehydrated and in need of medical 
supplies." The voice was hoarse, but steady. 

Jack sighed, glad Teal'c was now conscious, but pained to see his friend 
suffering even more, "Yeah, well that's the problem. We haven't got any 
of either and I can't see any way of getting them." 

He lay back onto the creaking wall, idly entertaining fantasies of it 
falling down and letting him and Teal'c run away. Run away. That's a 
joke, they could barely stand, not a good leg between them. 

"What happened?" 

"I reached the campsite and checked for an ambush, but clearly I did not 
check well enough." Teal'c smiled slightly, grimly. "Where is Daniel 
Jackson?" 

Jack shrugged. He felt like giving in. Two team members injured beyond 
self-repair, one compromised and one... missing. Nice little party. "I'm 
all out. Unless you have a better idea than glaring at the Amazons until 
they let us go home..." he held his aching head in his hands. 

                         *******************

Sam stormed into Themina's antechamber, dismissing the nervous servants 
with an impatient wave. "Themina! I need to talk to you." 

Themina looked up from her meal, cocking her head in bemusement. "Ah, 
Sister Samantha, what urgent catastrophe urges you to drag me away from 
my meal?" 

"Selene," Sam snarled. 

Themina's eyes widened in surprise, then narrowed in distaste. "You are 
right, this *is* urgent news. What is she up to now?" 

"She is coercing Daniel," the name was reduced to a guttural growl, "to 
kill me! She promised him his freedom and that of his friends." 

"That is not acceptable." Themina's eyes darkened. "Although 
assassination is not frowned upon, being discovered surely is. And she 
should *not* be fooling with the intended tribute. I have suffered her 
machinations for long enough, come, we will turn her cleverness against 
her." 

This was more like it. Sam took a seat beside Themina and poured herself 
a drink. "I like the sound of that. What do I have to do?" 

                         *******************

Daniel could hear the gasps of someone in great distress as he tried to 
focus on the face floating before him. It wavered dizzyingly, and flip-
flopped several times before it snapped into crystal clear resolution 
along with the understanding he was responsible for the frantic 
inhalation. Selene leered at him as he slowly returning to his senses. 

"You see how easy it would be to break your neck, Slavedaniel? I know 
you don't want to die, and the only thing preventing it is your 
willingness to kill Samantha Carter." 

He sat up slowly, rubbing his forehead. Why did this woman keep 
insisting he kill Sam? Well, he knew why, but why couldn't she see he 
wouldn't do it? Daniel understood his refusal would lead to more torture 
or death, and he weighed his options. 

Time to put on his best scared puppy face and pretend to play along. 

"O-of c-course," He faltered. "Whatever you want! Just don't hurt me 
anymore!" 

Selene laughed, completely buying into the act. She stroked his face 
gently, tracing his bruises over and over again. 

"You men are so predictable. A little pain and you turn into sniveling 
babies. It disgusts me at times we must debase ourselves with you at 
all. Thank goodness I do not participate in the ceremonies every year." 

Daniel couldn't school his face quickly enough to remove the curiosity 
from it. 

Selene noticed and clarified, "Well, we couldn't have the entire 
population pregnant at the same time, could we?" 

Daniel shrugged and tried to look disinterested. It would do him no good 
if Selene discovered every piece of information she let slip was being 
stored away in case it could come in handy later. 

"All Amazons of child-bearing age participate in the mating festival, 
but not all at once," she needlessly explained. "We do not want to waste 
these years, and not every pairing will result in a child, or even a 
female child for that matter, so the years are alternated. Those not 
actively participating have the pleasure of watching the proceedings. 
This can be equally satisfying for some." 

Daniel gathered she actually preferred the watching as her eyebrows 
waggled suggestively. Her hand stopped stroking his cheek and her face 
became thoughtful. He shivered for effect and looked away from her stare 
meekly. 

"Although...there are exceptions to every rule. You appeal to me 
Sl...Daniel. Perhaps, once you have completed your task, I will partake 
in the pleasures you have to offer. Yes." She leaned closer to him, her 
face inches from his own. 

Daniel shivered, this time in earnest, as he helplessly watched Selene's 
lips descend onto his. He held his breath while she kissed him, hoping 
frantically she'd allow him to see Jack before he was scheduled to 
execute Sam. A groan escaped his lips. He didn't even know Jack's 
condition. 

Selene misinterpreted the reaction as acquiescence and her kiss became 
more enthusiastic. Daniel moved to grab her arms and push her away from 
him. 

She reared back at the motion and slapped him hard across the face, 
snarling. "How dare you! I did not give you permission to touch me!" 

She rose and backed away from him, eyes blazing wildly. Daniel gulped, 
realizing at last and with certainty how much trouble he was in. 

                         *******************

Jack slept fitfully and was roused by rustling noises and voices just 
outside the door. He fidgeted uncomfortably and turned to greet his 
visitors. Carter entered the hut, medical supplies in one hand and a jug 
of water and a bundle in the other. Jack sighed inwardly as relief 
washed over him. At last, something was going right. He had his second 
in command back. 

Jack sat up, glad to see his friend again and eager to do something... 
he caught himself short, though as his waking brain screamed 
incoherently. Just what was Carter doing here, anyway? Was she back to 
normal? 

"Hey, sir. I've brought medical supplies and food. I'm trying to gain 
their confidence, it seems to be working." 

'Oh really?' Jack nearly said it, but flinched with the memory of their 
last conversation... "Right, fine, but can ya see to Teal'c? He took 
quite a beating." Jack couldn't take all of his irritation out of his 
voice. 

"Hmm? Oh, right." Carter looked momentarily distracted. She knelt down 
and began her ministrations unemotionally. 

"Where's Daniel?" Jack asked, trying to keep the suspicion out of his 
tone. Carter was showing no sympathy toward Teal'c's condition. This was 
so not right. 

"He's fine." She finished cleaning Teal'c's wounds and sat back. 

Teal'c barely stirred throughout the exchange. Jack was glad he was 
getting some rest. 

"Listen, Jack--" 

The airman's head snapped round painfully at the use of his first name. 
Carter was kneeling on the floor in front of him, leaning towards him. 
Her head tilted up to look at him and Jack noticed her pupils were 
dilated and her breath had a certain twang. 

"Carter, I don't think..." 

"That's right, don't think. I've found a way you can get home." 

She rocked forward on her haunches and reached her fingers out to brush 
the split lip. "I'm sorry I had to do that," she crooned, "but I had to 
keep up appearances." 

Jack's breath came ragged, Sam was getting far too close for comfort and 
obviously she still wasn't herself. Ah, this was very uncomfortable... 
he uncharacteristically shrank back slightly, hugging the wall. 

"All you have to do is one little, tiny thing for me. You can do that, 
can't you?" she took his chin and nodded his head. "You see, we all need 
to make sacrifices," she sighed softly. "It seems our precious Daniel 
has been conspiring against all of us. The entire time you and Teal'c 
have been in here starving and bleeding, he's been living it up with 
Selene. She's fed him, given him fresh clothes, and even a nice soft 
bed. He's got it so good, he'll do anything to keep it that way. Selene 
is so threatened by me, she's even convinced my dear friend to kill me!" 

Jack gaped at her numbly, shocked by her words and her hand on his 
thigh. Daniel would never sell them out. He knew that, and her actions 
merely confirmed it. No Major in the USAF would ever come on to another 
officer, especially her commanding officer! 

Carter forced his mouth shut before he could speak, keeping her hand 
under his chin. "I won't let that happen. No, actually, YOU won't let 
that happen." 

Jack didn't know if she was ordering him to kill Selene or Daniel at 
this point. His head was spinning at how out of control Carter was. He 
decided to play dumb. "What do you want me to do about it?" 

Her lips twisted into a snarl, mutating her perfect white teeth into a 
predatory grin. "Jack, Jack, Jack. Of course you will eliminate Daniel. 
We all know how dangerous he is with a weapon. Really, it would be to 
your benefit as well as Teal'c's if you neutralized him. He's a menace." 

He opened his mouth to speak again. 

"Ah!" Carter halted him with a finger in the air. "I don't think you 
heard me." She moved to kneel by Teal'c's prone form and traced a 
pattern across the unconscious man's chest. "Daniel is going to kill me, 
Jack. If he succeeds, both you and the Jaffa will die, have no doubt 
about it. But if you kill him, I can protect you. One life or three, 
Jack?" 

Jack's head swam in pain, his leg seemed to be on fire, but he needed to 
concentrate. His voice came in a thin rasp. "Why? Why are you doing 
this, Sam?" He used her first name, trying to snap her back to her 
senses. 

She winced at his informality. "How dare you use my name! You have no 
right!" 

Jack was desperately aware he needed to push while she was here, before 
she had a chance to re-group, to be brainwashed again. A direct physical 
assault wouldn't work and he was not in good enough shape to deal with 
an enraged and well-trained Sam. Maybe he could find his Major in there 
somewhere. 

"Sam, you don't want to do this, you don't want to hurt Teal'c. Think, 
damnit, think! How could you possibly want to kill Daniel? After all 
he's done? After all this time, does it mean nothing to you?" 

Sam's eyes teared at his words and she pulled back slightly. Hysterical, 
she jumped up screaming, "What is it with you? Why are you always trying 
to suppress me? Why are you always crushing me?" 

Jack dragged himself up, inch by painful inch until he stood over her. 
"What are you talking about?" 

Carter couldn't, or wouldn't hear him. She was shouting again and Jack 
realized the comments weren't all aimed directly at him. There were some 
that were probably directed at that creep Jonas, or other men. He heard 
things that could only be meant for Jacob. Her mother had died when she 
was still young and obviously, it had stung more than she was prepared 
to say. He knew that sting, and he knew what it could do to a person. 

He stepped forward to pin her wheeling arms, fearing damage to himself 
and to her. Carter snapped out of her trance at his touch and shrugged 
back. "Get off me! GET OFF ME!!!" 

Recovering slightly, she shivered and shouted, "You WILL kill Daniel, or 
you will ALL die painfully and I'll make sure you are the last to die so 
you can watch what we do to your friends!" She turned with force and 
slammed the door again behind her. 

Sometime, Jack figured, the door was going to bounce off its primitive 
hinges. He'd almost got there, almost gotten her to see sense... Poor 
Carter. Somebody had screwed with her head real good. That was one of 
the few things Jack *really* hated. If they ever got out of this. 
Correction, when they got out of this, his Major was going to be hurting 
even more, damnit. 

                         *******************

Themina toyed with her headdress. The last official meeting before the 
start of the three-day festival had just ended and she was itching to 
get back into her fighting gear. She was unusual in being both good in 
the halls and in the fields, unlike her predecessor who had been purely 
a war leader. Themina could play hardball with the likes of Selene... 

Selene finally plucked up the courage to make a direct strike against 
her, probably because of the appearance of Samantha and her three... 
troublemakers. Themina had seen a valuable source of exchange and 
leverage in the newcomer. Selene's peculiarities had stopped her from 
holding Themina's vaunted position, though it didn't stop her trying. 
For Themina to have Sam, another red-head under her control would speak 
volumes about her strength to Leyda and may tip the balance more equally 
as there was one other red-head of the right age at the moment, an 
undistinguished leader... 

Selene had to be stopped, but not eliminated. Better to humiliate her 
and keep her in check via blackmail than lose her, she was useful when 
'negotiation' was required. 

Themina admired Samantha's ingenuity. The idea to have the young slave 
killed had been her own idea, of course, but Samantha had decided to 
make it more interesting and use the elder slave. For similar reasons 
Selene couldn't kill Samantha, neither Themina nor Samantha could murder 
Daniel. It would send a clear signal to Selene her deception had been 
discovered. Even if Selene figured out their scheme, she would be unable 
to actively retaliate upon Leyda's arrival. 

This was turning out perfectly. The old slave could even be made into 
the hunting tribute. Sure, he was injured, but he could be patched 
together and Samantha had said he was skilled in evading capture. If he 
were anything like the larger one, it would be highly entertaining 
indeed. And once her slaves were all gone, Samantha would have no power. 
She would still have to be removed, of course. Themina couldn't have 
someone with such intelligence and cunning around. 

                         *******************

"O'Neill," the voice cracked painfully. 

"Yeah?" the reply was equally weary, but the older man looked up 
sharply. 

"Is there anything to drink? I require..." Teal'c coughed. 

Shit! Goddamn idiot, only thinking of yourself... Jack groaned at his 
selfishness as he crawled over to the meager supplies afforded them. He 
picked up the large jug and held it to the Jaffa's lips, reaching under 
the big man's shoulders and tilting his head up. When Teal'c had drunk 
his fill, Jack wet some of the cleaner strips he had torn off earlier 
and dabbed at his forehead, cleaning the (now gladly healing) wounds. 

"D'ya feel up to eating?" he asked, eyeing the hunk of stale bread that 
was meant to sustain them. 

Teal'c simply shook his head and lay down again, exhausted. He was 
running a slight temperature as Junior worked overtime, so Jack promised 
himself he'd keep an eye on it. He'd meant to give Teal'c a drink, but 
had been so lost in thought he had completely lost track of everything. 

He stalked over to the narrow crack of the doorway to check the horizon. 
It was fast approaching nightfall and Jack aired his fears to Teal'c. 
"Not long before the big party. For once, I wouldn't mind if I wasn't 
invited." 

"Indeed, it is one gathering I would like to miss also." 

Jack gave up looking for inspiration outside and turned to his friend. 
"Carter came in before. She said one of the others had forced Daniel 
into agreeing to assassinate her." 

Teal'c said nothing, letting the airman take his time. 

A deep sigh heralded the second half of the news flash. "She wants me to 
kill Daniel for her." 

"What are you planning?" 

"That's just it, Teal'c," Jack half laughed. "If we stay here and do 
nothing, they will kill us. I don't know if it will be fast or slow, but 
they will do it eventually. If I go along with it maybe I could get to 
Danny and make a break for it? I could come back and get you and Carter. 
If worse comes to worst, we could send a team back through." 

"This would seem to be our only option," he agreed. 

"You know what it could mean? I might not get away. Hell, I'm not likely 
to get away. I'd have to leave you for a while and I might not get back 
in time..." 

Jack knew Teal'c understood what he meant. He knew what could happen. "I 
understand. I am of no use like this and I can ascertain no other course 
of action." 

"I'll take that as two thumbs up, buddy." Jack rocked on his feet, the 
whole kit and caboodle would be funny if it weren't so goddamned 
dangerous. Honestly, with executions left, right and center, the whole 
thing read like the script from some black comedy. "Welcome to the worst 
day of the rest of my life." 

                         *******************

Daniel slid down the wall to the floor, knees drawn up to his chest. He 
rested his aching head upon them and rubbed his bruised throat tenderly. 
He didn't think he could find a spot on his body that didn't hurt. 
Selene had flown into another fit of rage and thrown him into yet 
another cold and damp shack. Geez, how many of these things did they 
have? Did the male population of this world exist only to construct 
their own prisons and reproduce? 

Daniel chuckled at his inane thoughts. His stomach roiled as he thought 
about his predicament. Six of one, half dozen of the other. Damned if 
you do, damned if you don't. How many other clichs could be applied? 
Jack would have a field day. 

Jack. He had to somehow find Jack. Before the damn festival began and 
he'd have to kill Sam. Not that he would kill Sam, but right now he 
couldn't think of a way to *not* kill Sam. Selene made it perfectly 
clear either he would kill her and become Selene's consort, or she'd 
find someone else to do it and kill Daniel for his defiance. The lesser 
of two evils. A thief and alive or honest and dead... 

Stretching his long legs in front of him, Daniel sighed with 
consternation. He didn't even know for sure if Jack was alive. He 
scrubbed his hands through his hair, dispelled a sharp breath and forced 
himself to rise. He paced around the room, all concentration on finding 
a way out of this shack. And off this planet. 

Daniel rubbed his lips absently, the action forcing the memory of 
Selene's not-so-welcome advances. What was it about him that made every 
psychopathic woman in the universe hot for him? Okay, well Hathor was 
just looking for sperm donor. Kira didn't know she was a sociopath, so 
she really couldn't be blamed. Shyla had been under the influence of... 

Under the influence of?? 

Daniel halted and his head automatically shot up, even though there was 
no one to run his theory across. That had to be it! When Selene kissed 
him, he could smell and taste alcohol. The tables had been filled with 
the stuff--everywhere he turned he found it. Must be some sort of 
special drink, perhaps for the festival? What if there was something in 
the drink that was altering these women? 

Sam included. Her behavior noticeably changed after spending only one 
night with the Amazons. It made sense. Daniel had to get Sam to stop 
drinking that stuff. He'd have a difficult time finding Jack, but Sam 
should be much easier to see. Surely she'd want to know how one of her 
slaves was doing? 

"Um, hello?" Daniel called tentatively. "Could someone come in here 
please?" 

The only hitch in this idea was if...Selene walked through the door. 

Oh, of course she did. 

                         *******************

Sam fled from the building as though it was on fire, heart pounding and 
confusion filling her entire body. She ignored the stares of the women 
as she raced into her hut. The door slammed violently, she slumped down 
it and wrapped her arms around her knees. 

She thought the colonel...no, *Jack*...would succumb to her method of 
persuasion. Men only thought about sex - it should have been her 
greatest weapon. And she knew for a fact he had feelings for her. It 
should have worked. 

But it didn't work and she panicked. His arms grasping her shoulders and 
his soft, condescending words pushed her over the edge. How dare he 
think he could manipulate her? How dare he question her order? 

The jug of mead on her bedside table drew her attention. She needed to 
calm down, that's all. Not bothering to pour herself a cup, Sam lifted 
the mead to her lips and took several long swallows. Almost 
instantaneously, she began to feel better. Thoughts and words previously 
a jumbled haze came into focus. 

She had gone about it all wrong. Colonel Jack O'Neill should not be 
underestimated. She knew that. The situation was salvageable, though. 
The look on his face when she threatened Teal'c was priceless. That's 
what she needed to exert her energy on. 

Yes, she had been foolish. The way to Jack was always through his 
friends. What happened to him was of little consequence as long as they 
remained safe. Hmm, the more she thought about it, the more satisfied 
she became her minor breakdown actually aided her plans. 

O'Neill would pity her. He'd be concerned for her. Afraid if he upset 
her, she'd go nuts. As disgusting as his pity was, Sam had to grin at 
her good fortune. 

She lifted the jug to her lips again and let the smooth alcohol slide 
down her throat. 

Daniel would pay for his betrayal. Oh, yes, would. And she would have 
the satisfaction of putting Jack O'Neill in his proper place. 

                         *******************

Teal'c brought himself out of Kel no'reem and glanced at his sleeping 
companion. His wounds had healed considerably and he felt he could make 
his first attempt to rise since being contained in this building. 
Slowly, he brought himself to a sitting position and the room swayed 
only a small amount. 

He stood and tested his injured leg, putting his full weight upon it. 
The pain was intense, but the limb did not buckle. Teal'c allowed 
himself a quick and subtle smile. He was no longer completely useless to 
his friends. His abilities were severely limited, it was true, but he 
was mobile once again. 

"Hey, Teal'c! You can stand!" O'Neill's tired, but jovial voice sang 
out. 

"Indeed." 

"Way to go, Junior!" 

Teal'c's smile broadened. The nickname still amused him. 

"I am yet unable to be of much assistance, O'Neill, but there is not 
time for additional Kel no'reem." 

"Yeah, well. I won't worry about it if you won't. Have I been out long? 
Did I miss anything? Any sign of Carter? What about Daniel?" 

O'Neill's questions bombarded him, and Teal'c took it as a good sign his 
commander and friend was showing a glimmer of hope. He regretted not 
having any further information on the remaining members of his team. 

"I have just come to awareness myself. I do not know if we have had 
visitors, although I believe it to be unlikely." 

"God, I hate this. Seems like all we've been doing is wait. In between 
beatings, of course." 

"Of course. I believe the hour of the festival has arrived, and yet 
Major Carter has not come to reveal more of her intention to kill Daniel 
Jackson." Teal'c's voice betrayed none of the fear he felt creeping into 
his senses. 

"That's okay. I wasn't really looking forward to that, anyway!" O'Neill 
joked weakly. 

"O'Neill, do you..." 

Before he could finish, the door flew open and a body was deposited into 
the cramped quarters. It lay face down, unmoving, but Teal'c knew 
immediately who it was. 

"Damnit," O'Neill breathed. "Daniel." 

                         *******************

Selene glided into the small enclosure, gently closing the door behind 
her. Daniel could have kicked himself for his stupidity. Selene had no 
doubt waited outside his prison, certain her threat would be considered 
and decided upon. He played right into her hands. He attempted to tone 
his statement from shock and fear to one of complete blankness. 

Hers told him he failed miserably. 

"So, you have made your decision? What will it be? I think I know..." 
Selene whispered seductively as she encroached into his personal space. 
Her slender fingers splayed across his chest and she leaned in for his 
response. 

Nausea abruptly filled him and he swallowed repeatedly. Daniel once 
again cursed his body for betraying him. Think, he had to think. Mind 
racing, Daniel fought the revulsion and managed to speak with a 
surprisingly steady voice. 

"Did I really have a choice? I'll do it. I'll kill Sam, but only if you 
promise to find a way for me to see Jack," Daniel said, hoping fervently 
she would believe his lie. "And that you allow me to see him before I 
kill Sam." 

Selene laughed, the obscene voice filling every corner of the room and 
seeming to reverberate unceasingly. She appeared wholeheartedly amused 
by his request, and she inexplicably drew Daniel into a warm, almost 
friendly embrace. 

"Oh, that is too precious! A slave making an ultimatum. You will surely 
provide me much diversion for many years!" Selene managed to spurt 
between chuckles. 

Daniel's heart dropped to his feet, dismayed at his failure. Still, he 
had to stand his ground. He gritted his teeth and held his breath as he 
endured her increasingly aggressive caresses. 

"I won't if you don't agree," he said flatly. 

At his statement, Selene's hands stopped and she drew away from him 
quickly. Studying him with narrowed eyes, she struggled to understand 
his meaning. Comprehension opened her eyes, and her gaze became harsh. 

"You would choose death?" Selene muttered angrily. "What power does 
Samantha possess that would make you forfeit your life for hers?" 

"She is my friend. I would rather die than be responsible for her 
death," Daniel stated simply. 

Selene searched his eyes to seek the truth. He knew they contained only 
icy will. She must have sensed his determination. She raged, "Friends 
with a woman? Unlikely. More aptly, Samantha has catered to you and you 
fear any other master would not treat you so favorably. You are correct. 
What, then, shall become of your companions?" 

Daniel's eyes flashed unconsciously. Companions? Then Teal'c... 

"Yes, Daniel. Your Jaffa friend has been apprehended," Selene snarled. 
"Both he and the older slave will be active participants in this 
evenings festivities. Most likely, they will have the distinct 
displeasure of being the tribute. That is, if they live long enough. 
Their fate rests in your hands." 

"What difference does it make what I do?" Daniel exclaimed in 
frustration. "We're all dead anyway, isn't that right?" 

"Silence! Your impertinence no longer amuses me," Selene roared, 
followed shortly by a powerful punch to Daniel's injured cheek. 

Daniel plunged to the floor with a groan, head smacking the ground with 
a resounding thud. Brilliant red blotches exploded before his eyes and 
he struggled to regain focus. His hand automatically traveled to his 
cheek, attempting to protect it. 

Selene fumed above him, resentment at their stalemate written in her 
every action. Daniel helplessly watched as her movement became more 
erratic and culminated into terrifying insanity. 

"She must die. She must die. She must die." Selene chanted. She turned 
to him, "If you won't do it, you will die!" 

Selene kicked out at the hapless man sprawled before her, catching his 
ribs brutally. Daniel moaned as this new pain took predominance over his 
prior aches. Red turned to black and he felt himself passing out. Selene 
poised for another well-placed kick, and Daniel tried to scoot away from 
the blow, wincing in preparation for more pain. 

Selene's foot suddenly vanished from his hazy view and Daniel wondered 
briefly where it went. 

"Selene! Not the tribute!" Daniel heard an unidentified voice shout and 
then he heard nothing. 

                         *******************

Pounding on her door startled Sam from her slumber. She raised herself 
up quickly, momentarily confused about her whereabouts. Where was the 
rest of her team? 

"Samantha! The time of the festival has arrived. Open your door!" a 
female voice called. 

Puzzled, Sam stumbled to the door. On the other side stood a gigantic, 
dark woman. The woman smiled amiably at her, holding a bundle under one 
of her arms. 

"Can I help you?" Sam queried and watched a perplexed statement take 
root on her visitor's face. And the confusion as it changed to mirth. 

"Oh, Samantha, you do have a strange sense of humor. Here, I brought you 
suitably attire for the evening's activities." The woman brushed by Sam 
into the small abode. She observed the empty jug by the bedside and her 
eyes glistened knowingly. "Ah, I see what is the problem. Drinking too 
much of the mead in too short a time can sometimes lead to a period of 
memory loss. It will return soon." 

"I'm sorry. What? Who are you? Where are my friends? Are they OK?" Sam's 
head throbbed, and her confusion was not dissipating. 

"I am Themina. Your friends, as you call them, are also being prepared 
for the festival. Do not worry," Themina appeased. "Lydia! Lydia, please 
bring more mead." 

Sam looked warily around her and at the woman standing next to the bed. 
Everything seemed vaguely familiar, but she couldn't place it. She 
jumped as another woman entered and handed her a mug of something. She 
hesitatingly put it to her lips and took a sip. 

Warmth crept through Sam's veins and her agitation toned down a notch. 
She began to remember bits and pieces of the past days. She still 
couldn't determine specifics. Somehow, she knew she should not drink any 
more of the mug's contents and she set it down with a jerk. 

Themina's eyes followed her closely, and the woman began to chatter 
soothingly, "We have brought you ceremonial garb. Please, try it on." 

Sam eyed the clothing suspiciously. It didn't look like it would cover 
her. 

"I would really rather prefer to keep my own clothes," she said calmly, 
reaching a hand up to squeeze the bridge of her nose. "Please. If you'll 
just take me to see my friends, I'd appreciate it." 

"I cannot do that, Samantha. You do not remember this of course, but one 
of them intends to kill you tonight. It would be unwise of you to seek 
them out." 

Sam gasped at the revelation, mouth flying open in disbelief. What was 
this woman implying? A gentle hand guided her to the bed and she sank 
down on it, knees weak. The mug of mead found its way back into her 
hands and she unconsciously took a swallow. 

Who would do that? The colonel? Sam didn't think so. Teal'c? Never. 
Daniel? No, Daniel would never... 

//'You will kill Samantha Carter.'// 

//'Oh, is that all you want me to do?'// 

The memory came back vividly, the words replaying over and over 
hauntingly. Daniel?! Sam brought the mug to her lips and drained it 
rapidly, not noticing the mead had a strange aftertaste. Was her memory 
true? Was Daniel going to kill her? 

Fear, anger and confusion filled Sam's being. She couldn't believe it, 
but she couldn't deny what she heard. Her muddled mind sought clarity 
and she strained to recall the previous day in its entirety. 

Images assailed her relentlessly as it all came rushing back to her. 
Conflict between irrefutable evidence of Daniel's treachery and her own 
gut instinct railed at her insides. Discombobulated by dual emotions, 
Sam fought to stem the nausea and uncertainty. 

Which was right? 

                         *******************

Jack waited until the Amazons backed out of the shack and shut the door 
before he raced to his young teammate's side. His hand grasped a wrist, 
searching for and finding a pulse. Strong and steady. 

He shot a relieved look to Teal'c, who relaxed visibly and made his way 
to Daniel's other side. Jack scanned Daniel's body with his hands and 
eyes for injuries before nodding at Teal'c to help him roll the 
archaeologist onto his back. 

The involuntary movement caused the younger man to groan and stir. 
Daniel's head moved almost imperceptibly from side to side and Jack 
noted his battered features. He reached out a hand to touch the swollen 
cheekbone, determining there was no break. At the touch, Daniel jerked 
awake with a startled yelp and sat up. 

"No..." he uttered, eyes filled with fear. Daniel slid back on his rump 
to get away from the perceived threat. His face grimaced with pain from 
the action. He doubled over, clutching his right side in a protective 
curl, breathing ragged. 

Jack and Teal'c reached out to the young man simultaneously, the dual 
grip finally bringing Daniel to his senses. 

"Hey, hey, easy Daniel. It's just us. Glad you could join the party," 
Jack smiled an empty smile. 

"Jack?" Daniel groaned, his eyes surveying the older man like he was an 
apparition. Eyes transferred to Teal'c and darkened. "Teal'c! Are you 
OK? So she wasn't lying..." 

Jack watched the younger man closely, concerned by his mutterings. Had 
he been alone with this Selene lady the entire time? Daniel's instant 
reaction to their touch worried Jack considerably, his mind flashing to 
Daniel's not so stellar track record with women. 

"What happened?" Jack asked gently, his face turning into a scowl as he 
caught the bruises on Daniel's throat. 

"Oh, you know. The usual. Crazy woman. Unrealistic demands," Daniel 
muttered with a wave of his hand, clearly not ready to replay the 
events, his voice raspy. "I'm fine." 

Jack eyed his young friend thoughtfully. Daniel appeared to be all 
right, physically. The way he was hugging his ribs revealed to Jack he 
had at least bruising under his shirt and he eased Daniel back to the 
ground. 

"Yeah, right. OK, just let me check you out, huh?" 

Daniel sighed his acceptance. Jack cautiously lifted up his shirt and 
winced at the discoloration decorating the younger man's torso. He 
expertly felt the ribs, thankful when they didn't give. Daniel muffled a 
moan at the invasion, and arm flung across his eyes. 

"Sorry, Danny," Jack apologized. "It looks like nothing is broken, 
though. Can you sit up again?" 

Daniel nodded and moved to do so, grateful for Jack's assistance. 

"I'm fine, Jack," Daniel reiterated. 

"So you said. Teal'c, can you manage the water?" 

"Of course. Daniel Jackson, it is good to see you. We were uncertain 
what had become of you," Teal'c commented as he handed Daniel a mug of 
water. The young man gulped it greedily. 

"God, I'm glad you guys are all right! She wouldn't tell me where you 
were, Jack, or if you'd got away, Teal'c. She's really lost it." Daniel 
shuddered breathlessly. 

"Who has lost it? Carter? We figured that out. She's been by a couple of 
times..." Jack wryly stated, fingering his split lip. 

"Sam! Is she OK? We've got to get her out of here, Jack. Selene..." 

"Yeah, Selene wants her dead, right? We've heard a bit about that," Jack 
interrupted. 

"No, Jack. It's more than that. I think I know what's going on here. The 
longer Sam stays, the more danger she will be in!" Daniel cried, panic 
seeping into his words. 

Jack rubbed Daniel's shoulder to calm him. "Easy, Daniel. Why don't you 
fill us in on what you know and we'll do the same. We don't have much 
time." 

                         *******************

Sam dragged a hand through her matted hair, wondering how she'd got into 
such a terrible state. Themina, (that was her name, right?) had left her 
alone to change a few minutes ago, but Sam hadn't brought herself to put 
on the, the skins, yet. 

She glanced over to the crude jug and mug that Lydia had brought.. 
Strangely, she could remember most of yesterday, but it all seemed 
distant. The memories were slightly jumbled and she could feel, well, 
something of the intensity of emotion, but it was wrong, somehow. Washed 
out. She knew you could remember feeling emotions, and not actually feel 
them, but this was ridiculous. Sort of an intellectual, detached link to 
the past. Was that a good thing, or a bad thing? 

Early morning was not the time to be thinking about things like that. 
Not with a head pounding and swimming like an all-night rave. Her 
stomach, while empty, churned. Had she eaten at all? She couldn't 
recall, but she certainly didn't feel like eating now. 

Sam groaned as she realized she was just putting off the important issue 
here: Daniel and her team. But how did you deal with a thing like that? 
Just when had the USAF held a lesson entitled 'What to do when you wake 
up to the memory that one of your teammates is plotting to kill you.' ? 
Obviously, she had missed that lesson. Alongside the ones about living 
water and scraggy haired little tree huggers. 

Should she go over and see them? Themina had said they were all 
together, ready for the 'festival'. If her instinct was right and Daniel 
wasn't trying to kill her he would deny it, right? Or tell her the 
perfectly reasonable explanation she had quite obviously just 
overlooked. But if the girls were right and he was just a cowering, 
lying wretch, wouldn't he do exactly the same thing? 

Would it be best to go and see for herself, check if he was lying? Or 
would she merely be taken in like a poor, dumb sap who couldn't think 
for herself? 

She winced, that didn't seem quite right. It didn't scan. Was it the 
drink talking? When she'd taken a swig, it had felt so good, so... 
right. But things that were good for you never felt good, did they? 

She struggled to think straight. Her mind was currently spiraling 
further and further inwards. Down into a dark, cold abyss of soul 
devouring nothingness. But the drink would help, wouldn't it? Surely, if 
the ends were so great, the means could not matter? She was strong 
enough to overcome it, to use it as it intended to use her? 

Sam could not resolve the conflict rushing through her head. Blood 
thumped viciously at her temples as she ran through the possibilities; 
apparent fact clashing with feeling. Hissing in pain, she resolved to 
play this one by ear, at least till she could figure things out. This... 
situation was so delicate and the one commodity she did need more than 
anything else was in short supply. Time was, as they say, running out. 

                         *******************

"It's the wine! They're all drinking it. It must be something in the 
wine! I..." Daniel took a deep breath. 

"The wine?" Jack asked. "It's OK, Danny, take your time." 

Daniel breathed heavily and looked up, thankful for the pause. "There 
were bottles everywhere and Selene reeked of the stuff. Do you think 
they put something in it that makes them... edgy?" He gestured with his 
free hand, the other still unconsciously guarding his ribs. 

Jack snorted at the understatement. "You might be right. I think Carter 
was on something. Teal'c, do you know anything about this?" 

"I do not know of any specific instance or tale which relates to this, 
but perhaps the drink is of ceremonial significance?" 

Daniel leaned forward again. "Yes! That must be it! Think about it Jack, 
they only mate once a year and even then only half of them do! If they 
relied on nature, there wouldn't be very many of the 'Baby Amazons' 
running around, would there?" 

"What? Do you mean they've put stuff in the wine?" 

"Yes, fertility drugs or something! It must be! All the hormone 
imbalances would make anyone irritable and imagine all the other side 
effects Artemis might have built into them!" Daniel stopped short, 
wincing at sudden pain in his chest. He wilted against the wall, energy 
depleted. 

Jack moved toward him, concerned. When Daniel stopped gasping, he put a 
hand out and helped him sit up again. 

"Look, I'm gonna have to see to those ribs." 

Daniel nodded and pulled up his shirt again, averting his head at the 
disgust and anger registering on Jack's face. He tried to focus on the 
far wall to distract himself from the fresh agony bursting in his chest 
and the suffocating pressure on his throat. 

"We need to get Sam out of here!" Daniel's eye closed. "These women are 
probably used to this stuff, I mean I'm no medical doctor, but that kind 
of stress can't be- ah!" 

Jack tied the loose ends of the bandage up, being careful not to jar the 
younger man further with his cold hands. He tucked away the strands and 
gently pulled Daniel's shirt back down, covering the dressing. 

"Yeah, well, even if the hormones are harmless, a permanently PMSing 
Major Carter is anything but." Jack's attempted levity fell short of the 
mark as he lowered the linguist against the walls of the shack. "Look, 
it's been almost two days. We're supposed to check in with Hammond at 
1300 hours tomorrow. That doesn't give us much time. We definitely don't 
have brawn on our side. What do you say? Should we use brains or 
beauty?" 

Daniel rolled his eyes. 

"OK, then. Daniel, did you happen to notice anything else that may help 
us?" 

Daniel nodded, the brief surge of adrenaline that had powered him had 
failed and he sat back feeling drained. He blinked to clear his blurred 
vision, an unfortunate result of the combination of exhaustion and his 
missing glasses. 

"I'm, uh, I'm not sure," Daniel hedged. 

"We must use their weaknesses against them, Daniel Jackson. Physically, 
we were no match before out injuries. The situation is now dire," Teal'c 
prompted, fingering the new attire provided by the Amazons. "The 
festival will begin shortly. It is to last three days. If we are able to 
remain alive for that long." 

Daniel cast his weary eyes over Teal'c, seeing for the first time how 
badly the Jaffa must have been injured. God, what had they done to him? 
His face was a network of cuts, none of them serious anymore. What did 
cause concern was the way Teal'c was limping and holding his arm 
awkwardly. He was selfishly glad he hadn't seen Teal'c earlier. Junior 
must have been to work, as he did not seem to be in any obvious pain. 

"Well, when Selene was...talking...with me, she was so focused on the 
discussion, I doubt she would have noticed a marching band had one 
paraded by. And her emotions changed so often, I would swear she's 
bipolar. If they're all so volatile, it could be used to our advantage, 
couldn't it?" Daniel theorized. 

"Yeah, any we've had the pleasure of seeing have been highly emotional 
and all that alcohol must be slowing their reactions, right?" 

Daniel turned to the older man. Jack wasn't one hundred percent either. 
He was favoring one knee and had it strapped up. Daniel wondered where 
Jack had got all the bandages. It looked as though someone had just 
grabbed a handful of supplies and thrown them in. With his bound ribs, 
Jack's knee and Teal'c's head- they looked like a mummy army. Daniel 
laughed quietly. A group of mummies who moved like they were straight 
out of the early Dynasties were the only ones to stand up against the 
followers of an ancient Greek goddess? Jack for one would appreciate the 
cosmic irony of it. 

"So we're going to outsmart them?" Daniel asked, calming down. 

Jack smiled grimly, "Oh, you betcha. They won't know what hit them." 

                         *******************

Sam dragged on a rough tunic to cover the not-so-modest 'ceremonial' 
garment she'd been given. She took a quick glance down at herself; the 
local fashion did not suit her in the least and for her money- she 
looked like death warmed over. 

Voices echoed throughout the village. Loud, hollow, raucous voices 
clamored in her head, jostling for prominence with the rumbling in her 
stomach. Sam leaned against the door for a second, girding herself for 
the fresh onslaught of noises and smells. Taking a deep breath, she 
steeled herself and entered the main hall. 

"Sister Samantha!" Themina's deep voice boomed. 

Selene was seated next to Themina, sulking slightly. When she saw Sam's 
wince, she spoke up, "Ah, you decided to join us at last!" 

The hall was still filled with tables bowing under the weight of 
numerous piles of food. Sam sat on the other side of Themina, who was 
grinning in delight at Selene's unbridled hatred and jealousy. 

"We were waiting for you, Samantha. You seem to have taken quite a 
shining to Lydia's brew..." 

Laughter broke out around the table and Sam shuddered as she was slapped 
approvingly on the back. 

Themina stood up, towering over the assembly with her impressive bulk. 
"Ladies, as we are all now here, the festival can truly begin! Come, let 
us drive the tribute to Leyda for the honor of our tribe! Praise be to 
Artemis!" 

"Praise be to Artemis!" 

"Praise be to Artemis," Sam mumbled. This was not going as planned. 

                         *******************

The voices could be heard long before the footfalls stopped in front of 
the building. Jack groaned at their continuing run of bad luck and 
timing. Damnit all to hell, would they ever get a break? He glanced 
quickly at Teal'c and Daniel. Neither looked ready to fight their way 
out of this. 

"Jack." Daniel's whisper barely reached his ears. He sounded panicked. 
Jack moved to the younger man. 

"Calm down Daniel. It ain't over yet," Jack soothed. 

"No, Jack. I have an idea. Selene might respond favorably if I let her 
think I've had a sudden change of heart. I can tell her Sam attacked me 
or something and I am now willing to kill her. That way, maybe I can get 
Sam away long enough for her to listen to me. We can grab our weapons 
and GDOs and come back for you and Teal'c," Daniel rushed. 

"Daniel, no. That's not going to happen. I don't think you should go 
offering yourself up to some lunatic woman. You know that never turns 
out well." Jack vetoed the idea. 

Daniel glared at him. Well, the kid could glare all he wanted. No common 
sense at all. This Selene lady was bad news. Her earlier 'discussion' 
with the archaeologist had left him jumpy, and the bruises on his throat 
clearly stated she had tried to strangle him. And here Daniel was, ready 
to jump right on back into that. Nope. Not if he had anything to say 
about it. 

                         *******************

"Selene, Samantha. I believe it would be best if you both collected our 
latest specimens for the tribute," Themina deviously suggested. "After 
all, Samantha, they were yours and I heard rumors Selene has taken a 
fancy to one of them, though I can't imagine why. He's quite a runt." 

Sam's eyes widened. What had she gotten herself into? Any doubts she had 
about Daniel's intentions to kill her were banished. She had been played 
very well. Why hadn't she seen it before? God, why wouldn't her stomach 
just leave her alone? It threatened to turn inside out at every 
movement, and this latest revelation caused bile to once again come up 
her throat. 

Appearing collected, Selene responded to Themina's challenge. "Very 
well, Themina. It is no secret I choose my slaves to be aesthetically 
pleasing, unlike others who will have anything crossing their path." 

A collective gasp sounded throughout the large hall. Sam surveyed the 
room. The women all looked shocked at the open ambivalence between their 
two leaders. Sam knew this could be very fortuitous, if she could just 
think of how to use it. But her head! It took all her strength not to 
massage her temples constantly. She couldn't let the Amazons know she 
was weakened. 

"Come, Samantha. Let us go. Themina, I gather you will go with the rest 
of the women to herd the other slaves?" Selene hissed. 

"But of course. We'll be at the temple." 

With that, Themina swept from the room, followed by half the contingent 
of women. The remaining half looked at Sam and Selene expectantly. Sam 
stood up shakily, legs threatening to give way underneath her. She could 
do this. 

The entourage left the hall and quickly amassed on the tiny shack that 
apparently served as prison to her three friends. It looked big enough 
for one person. Sam's stomach twisted yet again, this time the cramps 
succeeded in making her twinge. 

"What is the matter, Samantha? Not feeling well?" Selene's saccharine-
laden voice chanted. 

Oh, God. Selene had already done something to her. How? When? Determined 
not to reveal she knew, Sam straightened. 

"No, I feel fine. I think I may have gone at the punching bag a little 
to rigorously and pulled a muscle," Sam lied. 

"I see. You're apparently not as strong as Themina thinks you are," 
Selene said spitefully. She didn't wait for a reply, instead moving to 
open the door. 

                         *******************

Jack had to admit he was growing extremely bored with all this door 
watching. Speaking of. 

The door opened slowly and a blonde head peered into the small space. 
The woman's nose wrinkled with distaste at the smells that greeted her. 
Jack tried not to take it personally, and couldn't help the nonchalant 
shrug that came automatically. 

"So these are the highly treasured slaves. I have only had the pleasure 
of meeting one," the woman murmured and made a beeline for Daniel. 

Daniel instinctively pressed himself even closer against the wall and 
Jack's lips formed an unhappy, tight line of anger at the reaction. This 
must be the infamous Selene. Quite a looker, actually. She predatorily 
scanned his young friend and leaned towards him, running her hand along 
his chest. The hand paused over the bruised ribs and rested there as she 
whispered something in Daniel's ear. 

Jack saw Daniel's eyes saucer at whoever just walked through the door. 
Carter. She looked terrible - whiter than a sheet, a sheen of 
perspiration lined her forehead and lip and she was slightly hunched 
over. A harsh cry from the opposite corner dragged Jack's attention away 
from the major. 

Damnit! 

Selene's hand was pressed brutally on Daniel's bruised torso, and the 
young man looked ready to pass out. 

"Hey! Get your hands off him, you bitch!" Jack shouted. 

At the same moment, Teal'c took one step toward Selene. Three spears 
suddenly invading his personal space stopped him. 

Jack wondered crazily how all these people were cramming into this dump. 
The ridiculous thought vanished at Selene's next words. 

"I will overlook your impudence on this occasion, only because you are 
needed for the tribute. But I will have you know I will put my hands 
any*where* on this little one and I will do so at any*time.*. He has 
offered himself to me in exchange for a favor, and he now belongs to 
me!" Selene victoriously grinned. 

"Daniel, no!" Carter wailed. "You can't! Don't--" 

Her words choked off as her eyes rolled back and she crumpled to the 
floor. Jack and Teal'c ran to her side to check her out, all the while 
trying to keep an eye on Daniel. The major's heartbeat was rapid and her 
breathing thready. 

Oh, this was so not good. 

                         *******************

"Leave her," Selene said callously to the three women. "Take the old one 
and the Jaffa to the temple. We will join you shortly." 

Through a red haze of pain, Daniel watched as Jack and Teal'c were 
strong-armed away. Jack shouted insults as loudly as he could. Daniel 
struggled to regain his breath. It felt as though Selene was slowly 
squeezing it out him, but Daniel knew that wasn't the worst she was 
going to do. His heart was in his throat at what he knew was coming. He 
hadn't anticipated Sam passing out and having to deal with Selene. 

Shaking his head as if to clear the pain, Daniel looked down at Sam's 
unconscious form. She was so still it frightened him and her face was as 
pale as it was right after Jolinar died, her lips colorless. When she 
entered the hut Sam had looked at them fiercely, but Daniel thought he 
saw fear behind her eyes. He brushed it off, knowing she couldn't be in 
control of herself. But she had sounded like the old Sam, hadn't she? 
God, had he just made a huge mistake? 

As if answering his silent inquiry, Selene's attentions once again 
focused upon him. She ran her hand across his chest and straddled his 
legs, pupils so dilated the blue of her eyes was barely visible. Daniel 
tried not to flinch, finding instead a corner to concentrate on. 

"Shall we continue where we left off, slave?" she cooed. "I'm so glad 
you came to your senses. Too bad it is already too late for dear 
Samantha. She's not looking so well, is she?" 

"What did you do to her?" Daniel asked with trepidation. Once again, he 
fell right into her trap. God, he was an idiot. 

"I told you I'd find another way to rid the world of her presence. She's 
taken quite a liking to our mead - who would notice if there was a 
little something extra in it for her? As far as anyone will be able to 
tell, she simply had an adverse reaction to it." 

"Poison." 

"You are sharp, aren't you? I will have to work extra hard to discipline 
you," Selene threatened. 

It didn't matter what he did, Daniel knew he was in deep trouble. He'd 
not willingly submit to her. 

Borrowing a phrase from Jack, Daniel retorted, "Bite me." 

"It would be so much easier if you would just cooperate," Selene signed 
in feigned resignation, "but it matters little to me. I like to play 
rough." 

Her left hand dug into his side, the pain so intense Daniel couldn't 
prevent a gasp. He barely got in a breath before her lips covered his 
own, smothering him. Frantic for air, he bit down hard on her invading 
tongue and tried to shove her away. She released him with a scream, 
grabbing his hair and yanking his head back. Daniel could feel something 
sharp pressing against his bared throat. A swallow stuck in his 
constricted throat. 

"I warned you, little one. I was going to go easy, but I can see that 
will not work with you," the furious woman scowled. 

Selene followed up on the threat by knocking Daniel off the cot roughly. 
He landed with a grunt on his stomach, his head colliding into Sam's 
still body. Thank God she was out of it. Daniel didn't think he could 
take it if anyone were to witness this. What the hell was he going to 
do? Selene obviously had the upper hand here. 

Selene flipped him over onto his back with her foot and followed up with 
another kick to his tender ribs. God, he didn't think anything could 
hurt this much! Daniel felt the bile rise, he quickly curled to his side 
and promptly emptied what little was in his rebelling stomach right onto 
Selene's boots. 

The Amazon roared with fury, grasped Daniel by his left forearm and 
flung him away from her. As he landed roughly, Daniel actually found 
himself glad for the respite the act would allow him, no matter how 
slight. Selene took several long, deep breaths before advancing toward 
him. For the first time, Daniel feared she might actually kill him the 
knife in her hands in a white knuckled grip. 

Daniel slid his eyes shut tightly and waited for fate to catch up with 
him. 

                         *******************

Teal'c was extremely displeased with the situation. Moments after 
stepping out of the shack, the Amazon women had surrounded them, tugged 
their arms behind them, placed manacles over their wrists and chained 
their ankles together. They then proceeded to prod him and O'Neill with 
their spears, guiding them through the village. Perhaps a kilometer past 
the village, they came upon a colossal temple. 

Teal'c recognized the structure immediately as an exact replica of the 
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus he had read about in Daniel Jackson's 
reference books. The foundation of the temple was rectangular in form, 
made of marble, with a decorated faade overlooking a spacious courtyard. 
Marble steps surrounding the building platform led to a high terrace. 
Teal'c raised his eyebrow at the extravagant temple, noting it had well 
over 100 columns, the capitols of each gilded in gold and silver. It 
seemed out of place on the rustic planet. 

Hordes of women gathered in the courtyard, the electricity of their 
drug-enhanced mood sizzled through the air. Things truly did not bode 
well for O'Neill and him. Despite their own unpleasant circumstances, 
Teal'c could not help but think of his other two companions. 

When they had been forced apart, neither Major Carter nor Daniel Jackson 
looked well. Teal'c clenched his jaw at the idea both his young 
teammates were already dead. Selene's intentions were no doubt suspect 
and based on Daniel's state after their first 'discussion', if they were 
not dead they were certainly in danger of it. 

A glance at the silent man beside him told that O'Neill's thoughts 
mirrored his own. The colonel's strict countenance revealed nothing to a 
stranger, but Teal'c noted the slightly twitching muscle on his jaw and 
answered it with one of his own. 

The crowd howled as they and the rest of the men from the surrounding 
villages were led into an oversized corral on the high terrace. Teal'c 
growled as wandering hands made a quick perusal of his back, arms 
and...his head snapped around at the unexpected touch. The largest woman 
he had ever seen assessed him, her eyes nearly straight on with his. Her 
tongue brushed quickly across her thin lips and she nodded slightly. 

Teal'c felt abnormally uncomfortable. 

                         *******************

Daniel held his breath. Nothing happened. He opened his eyes. 

Selene's eyes glinted in the thin shaft of light, mirroring the thin 
blade of metal resting in her hand. Daniel stared, transfixed. 

"Stand up, Slavedaniel." She tilted her head to stare at the knife. "I 
will stop this nonsense for once and for all." 

Daniel couldn't help the pathetic whimper from escaping. He could barely 
lift his head from the cool, hard floor. 

"No." 

Selene's eyes narrowed further. "Very well. No man resists me and lives 
to tell the tale." 

Daniel closed his eyes in resignation, hoping maybe Jack and Teal'c 
could at least get away. 

                         *******************

Jack choked back a cry as he was shoved hard. He landed viciously, all 
his weight firmly on his swollen knee. When his vision cleared, he 
unfolded from his more stable slouch, stretching his arms backward to 
balance himself better. His neck cramped painfully and his bound wrists 
chafed at the old-fashioned manacles, preventing him from massaging his 
tired muscles. 

In the middle of his hasty ministrations, an oppressive silence hit him 
like a heavy wave. Jack turned slowly, dreading what he would see now. 
He was not disappointed. A monster of a woman stood in the center of the 
corral and the large ring of people gathered around her marked her 
presence. 

The men were backing away from her, pressing into a thin band without 
touching the edges. The few that went too close to the perimeter 
suffered jabs, pinches and slaps and soon scrabbled back into the safety 
of the herd. The Amazon women not participating in the year's 
festivities were apparently finding other means to entertain themselves. 

Only he and Teal'c were not hugging into a safe ring. 

The woman stalked around Teal'c, then surveyed the rest. Her impassive 
eyes flickered slightly as she saw Jack, but continued until she had 
taken in the whole of the tribute. This must be the infamous Leyda. She 
was a brute - nearly Teal'c's height with dirty blonde hair, cold gray 
eyes and thin lips perpetually shaped into a leer. 

The Amazons were silent, greedily eyeing the men. Themina stood proud 
and impassionate alongside a few others, but the majority of the 
thronged masses were clearly inebriated to the extreme. For one long 
moment, Leyda stood silently studying the throng of women. 

"My friends," she crowed maliciously, "Artemis has smiled upon us this 
year. Although some of our less fortunate sisters offered some less than 
adequate stock - such as our dear Penelope," she glanced at a young 
woman who turned an angry shade. Clearly, pity and loss of status were 
bestowed as quickly as favor. 

"Whereas others," she nodded to Themina, who smiled faintly, "have 
brought me much more... intriguing and challenging trophies. I 
understand Selene will be along shortly with an additional contribution 
and this Samantha I am eager to meet. I am not pleased by her tardiness, 
or the fact she chose her specimen without my authorization. Let it be 
known Selene will be punished severely." 

Leyda twirled back to Teal'c and stood thinking for a moment. Jack noted 
some of the women had become very uninhibited. They were fidgeting 
impatiently even during their leader's speech. Leyda spun back. 

"I'm taking the Jaffa for myself. Themina, you have the first pick, then 
the rest may choose. Penelope, your tribe will choose last." 

Penelope nodded slightly, clearly unhappy about the punishment for her 
poor tribute. Themina swung imperiously into the paddock, her head held 
so close to that of the giantess he thought she might take off. 

Themina strode through the ranks, making a huge show of eyeing the other 
tribes' tributes. Deathly silence pressed in at all sides, all eyes on 
Themina as she ambled lazily towards Jack and paused right behind him. 
Then, very deliberately, she grabbed his hair and tugged his head back, 
feeling the tension in his shoulders as he shook angrily. His nostrils 
flared at the sight of her grotesque grin. Then, she released his head, 
jerking it painfully forwards until his spine clicked. 

A huge roar swept through the crowd as the women ran in. Jack fought the 
press of the bodies, struggling to get to Teal'c; they couldn't afford 
to be split up now! As he was tugged farther and farther away, he called 
out, "Teal'c! Teal'c!!!" 

                         *******************

Daniel waited for the final moment. And waited. Blood thundered 
deafeningly in his ringing ears and he couldn't bear the terrible 
suspense a second longer. He warily opened his eyes, to find Selene 
lying face down in front of him. Daniel gasped and shot up to a vertical 
base, backing away from the picture before him, sore side momentarily 
forgotten. The stench of vomit and metallic blood mingled in the stale 
air and the whole room swum. 

Confused, his eyes flicked up to see Sam swaying like a drunk in a high 
wind, the shattered handle of a mead jug hanging from her limp fingers. 

"Sam!" he shouted and lurched for her. He hugged her quivering form in 
his arms, ignoring the crushing weight on his chest. 

Sam looked awful, her gray skin was streaked with sweat and her eyes 
were dark. Her lips moved quietly as her legs gave way. Daniel followed 
her down, guiding them both to the floor clumsily. 

"Daniel- Daniel, I'm sorry. So sorry, so sorry..." The voice was barely 
audible. 

"Sh- sh- it's OK. There's nothing to be sorry for. Are you all right?" 
Daniel's voice was low and gentle. He knew the answer to that question. 

"Th- thirsty," she managed. Daniel grabbed a canteen and helped her 
drink. 

That had to be a good sign, surely? At least it may help clear the 
toxins out somewhat. Sam leaned back, exhausted. 

"Sam, we can't stay here. We've got to go and get help, Jack and Teal'c 
are still out there!" 

Sam shuddered, "Yes, but how? Look at us!" 

                         *******************

The tribe leaders dragged out their choices from Leyda's stock, their 
underlings behind them. Jack was herded out yet again. He was beginning 
to get dizzy, even the sitting and waiting was better than the constant 
shoving from one place to another. 

Themina paraded him up the steps of the temple, and forced him to his 
knees in front of the brashly painted altar. Strange, but Jack had 
always thought the Greeks liked white better. Seeing the bold, garish 
colors seemed to spoil the effect and take away some of the mystery of 
that civilization. Leyda was already standing behind the large, 
decorated altar, Teal'c kneeling beside her. One by one, the other tribe 
leaders brought their choices before her. 

Jack squirmed painfully, the hard, cold floor biting into his knees. 
This whole thing smelt worse than a kettle full of fish in high summer. 

Leyda looked at them each in turn. "We give praise to Artemis, who has 
blessed us with such a bounty." Her eye turned to Teal'c. 

Jack did not like the sound of that one bit. He glanced at the brilliant 
marble slab. It would be a shame to spoil the delicate sheen with 
crimson blood; but then, it did look hygiene friendly and easy to wipe 
clean... 

"Now we mark our quarry, in the way of our immortal ancestors." She 
flipped out a blade from somewhere and leaned down to Teal'c's side. 

Jack's mouth opened in a wide 'O' of shock, but he gasped as cold steel 
bit into his arm, shinning teeth carving through his upper arm. "What 
the hell are you doing?" he screamed. 

Themina kicked him in the small of his back and he collapsed. His leg 
twitched convulsively as his jaw hit the floor hard. He stared down at 
the floor, noting with some twisted satisfaction he had been right. The 
blood he had spilt could easily be mopped up. He felt incredibly 
unimportant; here his blood meant nothing and no one would notice it, 
other than the mess it made. 

Jack felt himself dragged upright again and let his head hang low, 
better to hide how well you were when your enemy already knew you 
couldn't fight. Maybe later on, you would need to bite... 

Themina kneeled beside him and slapped a handful of cold salve onto his 
freely bleeding wound. 

"Why thanks," he hissed. "I never knew you cared!" 

"Hah, don't worry, I don't. This will keep you going long enough to make 
a sport of it. And pretty soon, you will find that cheekiness of yours 
kicked out of you. Now then, Samantha said you were trained in evading 
capture. I will be interested to see how well you do. You are not the 
youngest bracket of the tribute." 

Jack laughed derisively. He may not be the youngest, but surely he was 
not the oldest. Hadn't Teal'c given them a run for their money? 

Themina ran a finger over the bloody knife. "Let the hunt begin." 

                         *******************

Daniel struggled under her weight, but Sam was pulling it as best she 
could. All she knew was she had to get away from the vile stench, from 
the bloody countenance grinning up at her. 

Sam twisted painfully to get a better look at him. He was awfully quiet. 

"Daniel, what's wrong?" 

"Nothing." 

"Daniel." 

Daniel looked up guiltily. "No, Sam, I'm fine. Really I am. Just a 
little sore. I think we should be concentrating on getting the hell out 
of here." 

Sam sensed the underlying tension in his words and noticed Daniel had 
turned an unhealthy gray-green. 

"Daniel, I don't think I can make it all the way back to the 'gate. You 
should go get help." 

The young archaeologist gasped, "But we can't split up now! I won't 
leave you alone!" 

"You have to! I can't make it. Besides, I'll be safe here. I'm one of 
them remember? Daniel, you *know* I'm right." 

Daniel surveyed her closely. Sam was deteriorating rapidly, she knew. 
Daniel's condition was such that he couldn't carry her all the way back 
to the 'gate, and she couldn't help him at all. 

"Yeah, I know," he reluctantly agreed. 

"Daniel, what about Selene? Is she--" Sam was sickened at the thought. 

"I don't know. To be honest, I don't care," Daniel stated flatly, his 
blue eyes flashing coolly, "What I do know is the other Amazons will 
notice if she doesn't make it to the tribute. And if you don't show up. 
We've got to move fast. C'mon. Show me where you've been staying all 
this time." 

Sam flashed one last look at the heap on the floor before she turned to 
Daniel, with a weak laugh, "Just wait'll you see it! It's the Ritz 
Carlton compared to this place!" 

Neither of them noticed the right hand of the fallen Amazon clench into 
an angry fist. 

                         *******************

The twin moons lit up the forest as effectively as daylight, making him 
cautious and slowing his progress. The forest floor was thick and the 
scrubby bushes scratched painfully at his legs. Jack's breath came 
ragged in his chest, burning his tortured lungs. Whatever Themina had 
dosed him with, it was good stuff. They sure were good at drugs, pity 
none of them could be put to a good use. His heart was racing faster and 
faster and still his endurance held. He was headed back to the village, 
towards the Stargate. 

Jack's knee was killing him worse than ever; as it swung forward, he 
could almost feel the tendons, muscles and ligaments tearing loose. Any 
second now, he was going to swing it forward and the whole damn lot was 
going to carry on going forward and fly right past him. What a nice 
mental image. 

He had to stop thinking and keep moving. If he could get back to the 
'gate, then he could grab a few hundred marines and anti-aircraft guns 
and cruise missiles and...damnit. No freaking GDO. Jack wondered if 
Themina would expect him to take the scenic route through the village. 
He had to believe the Amazons brought their packs there. Somewhere. 

He had to keep moving. Themina was bound to be after him by now. She was 
probably an expert tracker and he hoped he'd covered his tracks well 
enough. He had also hidden his direction, twisting back around the 
temple. Jack knew he couldn't save his team alone, but he was damned if 
he wasn't going to get them back and see justice done. Oh, screw the 
justice. Jack just wanted to get everyone off this rock, and preferably 
while they were still breathing. 

Adrenaline swamped his system, blinding his vision and fuzzing his 
thoughts. Putting his head down, he charged headlong through the forest. 
It would be a cold day in hell before Colonel Jack O'Neill was beaten in 
field craft. He was born to it. 

                         *******************

Teal'c turned as he heard his name and saw O'Neill being dragged 
backwards over the heads of the shorter men. In the confusion, he made 
to follow him, but a strong hand gripped his elbow. 

"Just where do you think you are going, Jaffa?" Leyda asked, amused. 

Teal'c stared at her, lip curling in ire. 

The Valkyrie-like woman shoved Teal'c in front of her and O'Neill 
shouted out in desperation as he was dragged under. 

Teal'c glared at the woman in front of him, wondering briefly what 
animal had died to make a skin big enough for her. Leyda had not 
released him at the same time as the others, prompting raised eyebrows 
and lewd comments, but she had merely laughed them off. 

"Are you ready to run, my pretty? It looks as though you already tried. 
Never mind, I'm sure your primta had little difficulty. What I am 
wondering is how many it took to bring you down. You seem to be a worthy 
tribute for once, one who will challenge me in the hunt." 

Teal'c felt his stomach churn and knew it was not something he could put 
down to Junior for once. Leyda didn't seem to be too badly intoxicated, 
like the others in the hunt. Teal'c could hear the Amazons who preferred 
their slaves fresh 'performing the annual ritual' with very little 
restraint and far less modesty in the spacious courtyard. Teal'c was 
glad the pillars hid most things from sight, because what he could hear 
was far worse. It left little to the imagination. 

Leyda undoubtedly knew he would have tried to escape with O'Neill, so 
she had staggered them. 

"Now we find out - how fast can you run?" 

                         *******************

Sam and Daniel stumbled semi-stealthily through the village toward Sam's 
accommodation. Loud whoops filled the surrounding woods eerily 
accompanied by terrified and pained cries. Both scientists attempted to 
tune out the noise, knowing what it meant for Jack and Teal'c. 

"Sam, I've been thinking," Daniel grunted breathlessly. "It's obvious 
the hunt already began. What chances do you give Jack and Teal'c of 
survival until I get back with help?" 

Sam didn't want to think about that. All she wanted to do was curl up 
and die. The possibility of just that happening made her even more 
unnerved. Daniel was right. They were crawling along at a snail's pace, 
and her current physical state was not responsible for one hundred 
percent of that. 

"I don't know, Daniel. If I had to venture a guess, I'd say slim to 
none. Is that what you wanted to hear?" she bit sharply 

Damn. Some of that drug must still be in her system. Daniel had 
explained his theory to her, and she didn't doubt if for a second. Sam 
could still remember the euphoria she felt after the first night, and 
the 'epiphany' she reached regarding her male teammates. It was 
embarrassing. 

"Sam--" 

"No, Daniel. I'm sorry, must be some of the mead still in my 
bloodstream. I never had the chance to meet Leyda, but if the Amazons of 
this village are an accurate gauge of their strength and virility, the 
colonel and Teal'c are in big trouble. Teal'c may be all right, since 
each Amazon chooses only one tribute and, uh, pursues him through the 
playing field. I didn't see how he was doing. How are his injuries?" Sam 
wheezed, the effort of talking taking far too much energy. 

"Better, but not completely healed. Jack wasn't exactly up to his usual 
standards either, so I'd guess he'd have trouble with one of them. 
Depending on her physical strength, of course," Daniel prognosticated 
wearily. 

He sounded like Sam felt. Bone tired and sick. As if a silent agreement 
had been made, both stopped speaking in favor of watching the ground. 
Sam knew Daniel would not be making a run for the 'gate. What their 
other options were, she couldn't say. 

                         *******************

Jack peered through the hedges into the village. It suddenly reminded 
him of an Old West ghost town, and he half expected to see tumbleweed 
rolling through the deserted walkways. Nothing good ever came of 
strolling into a seemingly harmless ghost town. Images from television 
shows sprang to mind. Some poor sap walking right into a trap, hidden 
enemies perched on roofs and behind buildings. Well, he wasn't going to 
make that mistake. 

He had to think. Where the heck would their equipment have been taken? 
It's not like he got the grand tour of the place. He'd caught a glimpse 
of a building in the center of the village that seemed larger than the 
rest, perhaps a meeting hall. He decided to start there and work his way 
to each building in a systematic search. Maybe he'd get lucky. 

Jack crept through the outlaying shrubbery to the closest building. He 
snaked his way around it and headed for the next, and then the next. 
Finally, something was going right! Jack paused. The last time he'd 
thought that, Sam had waylaid him with instructions on killing Daniel. 
OK, so he'd better not take the ease of his current task quite so 
readily. 

"OK, it's that one on the right," a weak voice floated Jack's way. 

Carter! That was Carter...thank God! 

"Good, just a few more steps and you can rest," an almost-as-weak voice 
followed. 

Daniel! That was Daniel...thank God! 

Jack's faces lit up in a child like grin, exuberant at learning his 
friends were alive and well. OK, alive at least. They didn't sound all 
that well. His plan of attack changed and he turned in the direction of 
the voices. Things really were looking up. Caution flew out the window 
and he raised his arm in a wave, his mouth opened to deliver a welcoming 
shout. 

A burly hand clamped itself over his mouth and pulled him into the 
shadows before he had the chance. 

                         *******************

Teal'c crept through the woods, careful to disturb as little as possible 
of the surrounding foliage. Leyda was not an individual to trifle with, 
and he intended to do no such thing. He decided the best course of 
action for him was to combine evading capture by the formidable Amazon 
with traversing the woods to the Stargate. This of course meant he had 
to return to the village to collect a GDO he hoped was there. 

There were far too many flaws in his plan than he cared for, but 
ultimately decided he had little choice. The last he had seen of O'Neill 
was not encouraging. In the bedlam of the corral, he witnessed O'Neill 
receive another wound from Themina and then released to the hunt. 
Themina had not waited long before following after him. 

Teal'c shook his head as if to force the grim thoughts from his mind, 
but only succeeded in calling up visions of Daniel Jackson and Major 
Carter. Perhaps they were still alive. Perhaps Selene was unsuccessful 
in her attempt to kill the major and... 'perform the annual ritual' with 
the archaeologist. She would not be gentle in her actions, as the women 
in the courtyard had not been. 

He must concentrate on his own survival for the time being. Becoming 
distracted by the plight of his teammates would only increase the 
chances of his defeat, and in turn sentence them all to death. 

Teal'c surveyed the village with a trained eye. He would not make the 
same error he made during the first escape attempt. He must not. He 
approached an outlying building and entered it. He would search each 
shack for their packs and then he would endeavor to locate his missing 
friends. 

"Rest is good." Major Carter's faint voice reached his ears. 

"Oh, yeah!" Daniel Jackson's chimed in. 

Teal'c's heart soared. His friends were alive! Heartened by this, he 
turned in the direction of the voices, catching sight of a figure hiding 
in the shadows of a nearby building. His eyes narrowed angrily and he 
maneuvered himself behind the interloper. He would not allow harm to 
befall Major Carter and Daniel Jackson. 

                         *******************

Daniel cringed as he and Sam tripped on the doorsill. He managed to stop 
them from falling, his right hand bracing against the frame, his left 
still wrapped tightly around the trembling major. Despair threatened 
him. He could barely make it through the village, how was he supposed to 
reach the Stargate? It was at least 10 kilometers away. Sam might be 
dead by then. And Jack and Teal'c. 

Selene! She gave Sam something, so wouldn't it make sense she'd have the 
cure to it? 

"Sam, I was thinking--" 

"Not again!" she joked. "You know that's not healthy." 

Daniel paused. Sam's strength always amazed him. Here she was suffering 
what he could only imagine was torturous pain and she still was able to 
joke. He shook his head in wonder. 

"Sam, be serious. I don't think it's a great idea for me to head for the 
'gate. The woods are filled with Amazon women on the prowl, and I don't 
think I can really avoid them. And I also don't think they'd have second 
thoughts about, er..." Daniel flushed. 

"Grabbing a second helping? Yeah, I already figured that out Daniel. Put 
me down over there, will you?" Sam breathed. 

Daniel guided her to the cot and eased her down gently. He wondered if 
she had come up with any ideas to get everyone out of this unscathed. He 
glanced down at Sam and amended that. Less scathed. 

"Maybe we should focus on finding the colonel and Teal'c. I have NO idea 
how we'll manage. They could be anywhere, but I'd be willing to bet both 
of them have already decided to head for the 'gate," Sam continued. 

"Sam, I..."Daniel started hesitantly. This was going to be hard to 
vocalize. "I don't know if you're going to make it until any of us get 
back, regardless of how quickly we can move. Whatever Selene gave you, 
it's working way too fast. I think before I do anything else I should go 
see if she has some kind of antidote anywhere. You didn't happen to see 
where her, uh, house is, did you?" 

Sam sighed her agreement to his assessment of her physical condition. 
Daniel didn't like the implication of that one bit. 

"I did, actually. She's two condos down on the left. But, Daniel, be 
careful," Sam warned. 

"When am I not careful, Sam?" Daniel asked innocently, batting his 
eyelashes rapidly. 

Sam responded with a feeble laugh and rolled her eyes. "Just hurry." 

Daniel sobered. He brushed his hand through her hair, kissed her 
forehead and turned to leave. His ribs balked at the movement and he had 
to pause for a second to catch his breath, trying hard not to stoop over 
from the pain. Sam didn't need to see that, to worry about him. 

"I'll be back," Daniel commented in monotone. 

Sam's laughter rang in his ears, encouraging him. Things were going to 
be all right. He had to believe that. 

                         *******************

"Heurgh..." Jack's call was muffled by the beefy hand across his mouth. 
He struggled against the strong grip, but the days of little to no food 
had left him weaker than usual and he couldn't break the grip around his 
waist. 

Jack mutely watched Carter and Daniel enter a hut agonizingly slowly. He 
hoped his captor didn't see them, that he didn't give them away. He'd be 
damned if he would be the cause for their deaths. 

"Quiet," a strangely familiar voice whispered in his ear ominously. 

"Mmph?" Jack responded. 

"Yes, O'Neill, it is I. I am going to release my hand now. You must 
remain quiet. I will explain," Teal'c's hushed words continued. 

Jack nodded, finding it humorous his own teammate had caught him. 
Humorous and extremely fortunate. Teal'c let go his mouth and the arm 
around Jack's waist disappeared. Jack turned around to face his friend. 

"What was all that about? Carter and Daniel are right in there!" Jack 
muttered quietly. 

"I am aware of that, O'Neill. But we are not the only ones in the 
village. To draw attention to ourselves would greatly decrease our 
chances of helping them. We must remain hidden." 

"What? Who? Damn, I was careful," Jack spluttered. 

"Indeed. As was I. I believe it to be Selene," Teal'c informed him. 

"Damn. I was hoping she was dead," Jack sighed, rubbing his suddenly 
aching head. 

Activity from the shack Carter and Daniel entered garnered both men's 
attention. Daniel exited the building and headed shakily to the left. 
Where was he going? Couldn't Daniel have just stayed put until he and 
Teal'c joined them? Jack knew his frustration was unfounded. 

"Great. Where's he going?" Jack murmured to Teal'c. 

"I do not know, but I believe he should not be alone. He is exhibiting 
signs of being in great pain," Teal'c solemnly returned. 

Jack's stomach felt like he'd just swallowed a ten pound weight. If 
Teal'c was right and Selene was traipsing around, Daniel would be her 
number one target. He wouldn't let her touch the archaeologist again, he 
vowed. 

"Right. I'll catch up with him. You see how Carter's doing." 

Jack made sure Teal'c made it into Sam's structure before he headed in 
the direction Daniel had taken. 

                         *******************

Sam sat down onto the rude cot, exhaustion consuming her. Taking deep 
breaths, she tried to overcome the wooziness surging through her. She 
held one breath longer than necessary and closed her eyes. She focused 
all her effort on listening to the gentle rustling hoping to calm 
herself. The rustling gave way to... footsteps? Footsteps close by... 
quiet padding at the doorway! 

Sam's eyes widened, Daniel wasn't due back so soon! Who could it be? 

Gagging suddenly, she shifted to the end of the bed and searched the hut 
for a weapon, for anything. No such luck, no rocks, sticks, lead piping 
or conveniently placed anvils. Well, she could probably have ruled that 
out from the start, but nothing? 

Struggling not to hyperventilate, she dragged herself behind the door 
and leaned against the frame. Maybe she could buy a few minutes... 

A dark shadow fell across the threshold and the door swung in, slowly 
and oh-so quietly. Sam held her breath as the stranger entered. 

"Teal'c!" Sam gasped in shock and relief. 

"Major Carter," Teal'c spoke softly, "I apologize if I startled you, but 
stealth was required." 

Sam let go the breath she had been holding in a drunken giggle, "Oh, 
Teal'c! And we thought we were going to have to come for you... oh..." 
Sam's knees buckled again, wheezing in pure, unadulterated relief, the 
wash of abject fear totally vanquished. 

"Major Carter, are you not well?" Teal'c sounded disturbed. 

"Not exactly. I'm just..." she stopped, leaning against him. "Teal'c, my 
head hurts." 

Sam's voice was quiet and childlike, her emotions involuntary passengers 
on a roller coaster. Her head reeled with the sudden changes from fear 
to giddy relief to lethargy. 

"Major Carter, the Amazon Selene is in the town and I believe Daniel 
Jackson is in danger. We must retrieve a GDO and return back through the 
Stargate." 

"Mmmm, ssshure. Just let me sleep a little first, M'kay?" 

Teal'c frowned, "Major Carter, the poison is making you feel drowsy, you 
must fight it." 

"Hmmm?" 

Sam heard Teal'c's muffled voice, but his works registered no meaning. 
She slid further into his strong arms, incredibly glad for the 
comforting embrace. 

                         *******************

Daniel surveyed the shelves upon shelves of bottles lining one entire 
wall of Selene's home. She seemed quite the amateur alchemist and Daniel 
wondered if any of the Amazons even realized their drink of choice was 
spiked. 

Daniel didn't know which to choose. Neat, angular lettering announced 
each of the vials and beakers, but he squinted impatiently at the 
writing. Dim lighting, a pounding head and the notable absence of his 
glasses rendered the script illegible. Damn! He didn't have time for 
this. Sam didn't have the time. Nobody had time. Daniel moved away from 
the wall toward the door where he hoped the sunlight would aid his 
sight. 

"Looking for something, Slavedaniel?" 

The archaeologist's jaw dropped at the unexpected intrusion. He jumped 
back in shock, his ribs protesting the movement. Framed in the doorway, 
Selene stood with matted hair crowning her bloody face like some bizarre 
avenging angel. 

"Surprised to see me, are you?" Selene uttered in a weakened voice. 

"No," he half-lied. "I knew I shouldn't let sleeping dogs lie." 

It was Selene's turned to look shocked and splutter. 

"Don't come a step further, Selene," Daniel warned, his panicked hand 
grabbed for something with which to defend himself. His fingers fumbled 
onto a wooden object and he brandished his weapon with determination, 
not bothering to verify what he was holding. 

"You wish to defend yourself with this, Daniel? Do you really?" Selene 
scoffed. 

Daniel held his weapon up higher, but never diverted his stare from her. 
Damnit, he couldn't let her plant doubt. 

"Yes, I do. Now tell me which of these will cure Sam," Daniel injected 
as much bravado as he could, last refuge of the cornered. 

Selene laughed a horrible, gurgling sound and stepped forward. Her head 
pulled back in a cobra-like stance, ready to strike, hand fisted on her 
knife. Blood from her head wound trickled down her jaw line, tracing an 
intricate pattern down her neck. Daniel stared in fascination at the 
crimson and braced himself for her attack. 

"Not so fast!" 

                         *******************

Jack clung to the wall, hobbling as stealthily as he could manage. A 
shape stumbling with grace to match his own caught his attention and he 
looked up. Selene. He gritted his teeth with the realization the woman 
would reach their common destination before he could. Ignoring the 
protest from tired joints, he lurched forward at an unsteady pace. 

Selene's hacking laugh grated on his ears as he flung the door open. She 
advanced on Daniel, who was clutching a hairbrush as though it was a 
machete. 

"Not so fast!" Jack growled menacingly. 

Selene twirled, confused at the new voice. Seeing the threat, she swung 
out toward Jack with the blade in her hand. 

"Jack, no!" Daniel cried and grabbed at Selene's shoulder in a frantic 
attempt to stop the swing. 

Jack stumbled back awkwardly in an attempt to avoid the deadly arc. He 
hadn't considered if she was armed, concern for his team outweighed 
caution. He fell against the doorframe but it was not far enough. 

Selene carried on forwards, bloodlust writ large behind her otherwise 
dull eyes. Daniel clung, the jerking swing obviously causing him pain. 
Jack noted the archaeologist's eyes water and his face twist into a 
grimace. 

"Let go of me!" Selene screamed and shrugged Daniel off. He went flying 
and landed solidly on the bed. 

Jack was simultaneously trying to cringe against the wall and stand up, 
but as Selene turned to swat at Daniel, he lunged desperately at her 
legs. Together they tumbled onto the floor, a mess of tangled limbs. 

"Daniel! Grab her arms!" Jack yelled, hoping his cry would reach the 
stunned man. 

Daniel immediately stepped forward and stamped a foot on the Amazon's 
right hand. Jack pinned her other arm down and she was forced to release 
her grip. Daniel kicked the blade from her fingers, bent down and picked 
it up. 

"Good, good..." was all Jack could manage. He held out his hand for the 
knife, but Daniel merely stared at his hand then glanced at the bloody 
blade. 

Selene drew back and Jack pulled himself up in the corner, eyeing her as 
she retreated to the opposite corner. "Daniel, give me the damn knife, 
get the hell back to Carter. Teal'c's with her." 

Daniel stared at the blade mournfully another second, then looked over 
at the snarling Selene. 

"No," Daniel stated with deadly calm. 

"No?" 

"No," Daniel reaffirmed and turned to Selene. "Tell me which is the 
antidote." 

Selene spat at his feet and laughed insanely. 

Jack's eyes widened. Poison? 

"Tell me which is the antidote." Daniel's voice carried a note of quiet 
authority that startled the Colonel. 

"Never. If I can't have you, then she won't, either!" 

Jack snarled, he wanted to make this sadistic bitch pay and if she'd 
hurt Carter... He needed to get whatever information he could from her 
NOW, but he sensed Daniel needed to do this. 

Daniel stepped forward. "Selene, you will tell me how to save Sam. We 
came here in peace and all you have done is beat four kinds of crap out 
of us, starve us, pump us full of drugs and just generally abuse us." 

Selene glared up at him, a silent, mocking grin curling her lip. 

"Now, I am a patient man, but I know plenty of people who are not. I'm 
sure... Leyda- or whatever her name is- won't be too pleased with you. 
Why don't you tell us which is the antidote and we'll let you go." 

"Hah! Do you think you can threaten me?" she laughed. "Never have I seen 
men like you before, but that will do you no good." 

Selene drew back to stare at him from under her matted fringe. Daniel 
sighed slightly and half turned to the Colonel, but gasped as a whir of 
browns flew at him. Bringing his hands up protectively, Daniel cried 
out. 

Daniel stood yelling, bellowing as if his life depended on it. Jack 
watched in horror as Selene lunged again, her war cry ringing in 
discord. And then it stopped. And only Daniel's voice remained. 

"Daniel. Danny..." Jack stood and touched the younger man's arm gently. 
Daniel turned to look at him, face gaunt and harrowed. "What's wrong, 
Daniel?" 

The linguist stepped back, and Jack could see Selene's slumped form 
crumpled on the floor, crimson lifeblood gushing in arterial fury. And 
Daniel was holding the knife. 

"I- I killed her!" 

"No. No you didn't. She jumped you. She knew you had the knife. You 
reacted in self-defense. It wasn't your fault." 

"But I..." 

"Daniel. Don't. She would have killed you, me, Teal'c... and if you're 
not quick, she could still kill Carter." 

Daniel jumped and Jack felt incredibly guilty for jerking him out like 
that, but it had to be done. "Daniel, this is important. Can you tell 
which of these is the antidote?" 

"Didn't you hear me asking the same question? I can't even read the 
labels in here!" Daniel cried, running a hand through his hair. 

Jack noted Daniel sounded slightly panicky and decided the younger man 
needed him help focus on something concrete, "Grab as many as you can. 
We'll see if we can read them outside, or at least take them back for 
the Doc to analyze." 

Daniel nodded quietly and reached for the closest bottles. 

                         *******************

Teal'c moved slowly and gently toward Selene's home. O'Neill and Daniel 
Jackson had not returned. It was conceivable the Amazon caught up with 
them, and Teal'c's concern mounted. Teal'c was sure the woman was moving 
as though injured and he clung to the hope the damage she sustained was 
significant enough to assure the safety of his friends. 

Major Carter stiffened suddenly, consciousness returning. Startled, 
Teal'c nearly dropped her but managed to avoid catastrophe by sinking 
gracefully to his knees and softly placing her on the ground. The young 
woman moaned piteously at the jostling. 

"I am sorry, Major Carter," Teal'c murmured. "I do not mean to cause you 
pain." 

Her blue eyes opened slightly, confusion mapping its way across her 
features. Panic shortly followed, and Teal'c's worry multiplied. 

"What? W-where am I?" the major whimpered. 

Teal'c rocked back on his heels, stunned at this new development. "We 
are on P3S 279, Major Carter. Do you not remember?" 

"Oh...yeah. I remember, Teal'c. I just couldn't think for a second 
there. Where are we going?" Her words were barely audible. Her skin was 
cold and clammy, yet she was sweating profusely. 

"Colonel O'Neill and Daniel Jackson have not returned. I thought it best 
to locate them," Teal'c explained. 

"OK. Teal'c?" 

"Yes, Major Carter?" 

"Do you mind if I just rest here while you go get them?" 

"I think that's a *fantastic* idea," a third voice intruded on their 
hushed conversation. 

Teal'c spun quickly around, prepared to fight the owner of the voice. He 
came face to face with Leyda. The Amazon had her knife in hand and was 
rocking side to side on her feet, already one step ahead of him. Teal'c 
cursed himself for once again failing to fully anticipate his enemy. 

He was determined not to let the mountain of a woman harm Major Carter. 
Teal'c placed himself in front of his friend's still body, blocking 
Leyda's view. 

Leyda laughed at his concern. "Do not worry for her. I hold this woman 
in the highest respect. She has obviously gained your devout following. 
It is a shame she will be losing an acolyte today." 

Teal'c cocked his head and raised an eyebrow, confident she was 
incorrect. "I do not believe so." 

"We shall see, slave. You were amazingly easy to track. I had so hoped 
for more of a challenge this year," Leyda hissed. Her cold, dark eyes 
narrowed ominously. She circled Teal'c as if looking for the perfect 
angle of attack. 

Teal'c waited motionlessly, waiting for the Amazon to make the first 
move. He was not yet completely healed from his previous injuries and 
could not risk a tactical error. Muscles tense, Teal'c bolstered up 
every ounce of reserve energy he possessed. 

Time seemed to slow until Teal'c thought he would no longer be able to 
await the predator's move. Leyda continued to circle him, stopping 
suddenly when she was directly behind him. She pounced on him, one arm 
wrapping around his throat, Leyda effectively cut off his airway. Teal'c 
reached up and grabbed the unwelcome limb. He hefted the large woman 
over his shoulder with one strong heave, grunting with the exertion. 

Leyda landed with a screech and scrambled to her feet, a look of 
infuriation displayed on her face. She lunged for Teal'c once again, 
knife at the ready. Teal'c easily sidestepped the frontal attack, 
grabbing the mad woman's knife hand. He twisted it sharply, and Leyda 
cried out, her hand automatically releasing the weapon. It fell 
harmlessly to the ground. Teal'c kicked it away. 

Leyda's fury made itself known as she wrenched from Teal'c's grip 
ferociously. She brought her arms together and pummeled Teal'c in the 
stomach. His Achilles heel. 

Agony seared through Teal'c, and he was unable to keep himself from 
dropping to his knees. Crowing at her success, Leyda's fingers tentacled 
around the Jaffa's throat once again. Teal'c struggled to free himself, 
the pain of his symbiote numbing to a dull throb. The woman's fingers 
tightened and she hauled back her other arm for a follow up blow to his 
abdomen. 

Teal's could not break Leyda's hold, his attempts becoming more and more 
desperate. One hand clawed at the Amazon's tight hold, the other falling 
to his side. Anger surged through him and he ripped her hand from his 
throat. Simultaneously, Teal'c felt something fumble with his free hand. 
An object was thrust into it and he unconsciously gripped it. Raising 
his hand to eye level, Teal'c was pleased to see Leyda's knife. 

Leyda screamed in rage and brought her fist forward. Teal'c blocked the 
swing and countered it with a well-aimed stab of the knife. The blade 
caught the woman in the side and she crumpled with a groan to the 
ground. Teal'c kneeled over her, gasping for breath. He spared a glance 
toward Major Carter, relieved to see her propped up on one side watching 
them fearfully. Her eyes widened. 

Before Teal'c could register the silent warning, he felt Leyda's hand 
reach into his pouch. The Amazon groped around his belly brutally. 
Teal'c roared in pain and shoved the woman away, her hand still clasping 
his symbiote as she fell. Teal'c was weakened almost instantaneously. He 
fell forward toward the squealing larval Goa'uld. Leyda squeezed it 
ruthlessly. 

Teal'c saw movement out of the corner of his eye. Major Carter was 
inching her way over to the battle locked duo. Teal'c concentrated on 
dispensing with Leyda. He jabbed the knife again into her side, holding 
it there and twisting the blade. The Amazon screamed and let go of his 
symbiote. Teal'c collapsed completely, his breathing labored. 

The equally harsh rasps of Major Carter joined his gasps as she held the 
injured larvae and slid closer to him. She eased it back into his pouch 
and slumped face down in front of him. Teal'c placed a hand on her head 
and closed his eyes. 

                         *******************

Daniel moved on automatic pilot. Mechanically, he searched the small 
room for a bag to place the bottles of chemicals he hoped contained an 
antidote for Sam. Shuddering, he tried not to look at the gruesome 
figure lying on the ground. Jack saw his discomfort and had placed a 
blanket over the body, but the camouflage didn't erase the images 
Daniel's mind continued to project. 

Selene's accusing eyes still bore into him. Every move he made seemed to 
be monitored by his latest ghost. Daniel had killed before, and much as 
he disliked it, he would most likely do so again. It never got any 
easier. He honestly didn't know how Jack, Sam and Teal'c dealt with it 
so readily, a difference Daniel felt sometimes isolated him from his 
team. 

Shaking himself from his self-inflicted misery, Daniel scooped the 
remaining vials into the sack. He didn't have time for this. Jack was 
keeping a wary eye out for his hunter. Daniel grimly smiled - of course 
the head of the village would choose Jack. Anyone else would have got 
some second rate Amazon, but not his friend. Actually, from what the 
older man said, Teal'c hadn't fared any better. 

Daniel made his way over to the door gingerly. The pain in his side was 
escalating. His little rough and tumble with Selene must have aggravated 
it. To make matters worse, his vision seemed even blurrier. 

Jack sat poised just outside the door, ready for action. Daniel took a 
moment to check Jack out. He doubted Jack was aware he sported a 
permanent pained scowl. Regardless if the other man knew about it or 
not, it worried Daniel. If they had to fight once more he wasn't sure 
how much assistance he could provide. Sam was out of commission. Teal'c 
was all right, but still not one hundred percent. They were just going 
to have to make it out of here with no further activity. 

"I've got them all, Jack," Daniel whispered, placing a hand on Jack's 
forearm quickly. 

Jack jumped slightly. "OK. Let's go get Carter and Teal'c." 

Daniel nodded and they moved as one back toward Sam's hut. They stuck 
close to the walls of each building, both for stealth and support. 
Daniel had to bite his lip to keep his pain in check and noticed Jack 
clenching his jaw in time with each footfall. Their process was slow but 
undisturbed and they made the short distance without incident. 

When they reached the door, Jack held his hand up to signal Daniel to 
stay put while he entered the structure. Daniel figured Jack thought it 
was better to be safe than sorry and he concurred. Seconds later, the 
colonel emerged with a concerned frown splayed across his face. 

"They aren't in there." 

"What do you mean they're not in there?" 

"What do you think I mean, Daniel?" Jack snapped. "They're not in 
there." 

"Wuh-well where would they go? We didn't see them on our way here. I 
doubt Sam and Teal'c felt up for a leisurely romp through the woods," 
Daniel retorted, his words tempered with fear and inappropriate sarcasm. 

Jack glared at him before replying, "Well, I was going to head to the 
big building in the center of town and spiral my way out. Maybe Teal'c 
had the same idea. Or maybe one of our female friends caught up with 
them and they had to leave. I don't know." 

Daniel decided he liked Jack's first theory better. The other was more 
likely, given their luck for the past couple of days. He nodded his head 
the direction of the main hall. 

"Shall we, then?" 

"Yeah," Jack answered quietly. 

Daniel turned to go, his ribs raging against the motion. He couldn't 
hide the wince, nor could he stop his free hand from cradling his tender 
torso. Unfortunately, Jack noticed and grabbed Daniel's arm. 

"Whoa! Maybe I'd better wrap those again before we do anything," the 
older man suggested. 

"No. No time," Daniel grunted. 

"Daniel," Jack warned carefully. 

"Jack. Look, I'll let you look at my side if you let me wrap your knee 
and check out that cut," Daniel volleyed, shooting a glance at Jack's 
bloody T-shirt. 

Jack remained silent but his eyes spoke volumes - the conversation 
wasn't over, it was simply delayed. Daniel didn't care. He just wanted 
to find Sam and Teal'c and get home. The battle temporarily won, Daniel 
resumed walking. Jack waited several seconds before joining him. 

They approached the hall with caution, aware of the many Amazons still 
on the prowl for their tributes. Jack had to be thinking about Themina 
specifically. Daniel hadn't actually seen the Amazon Queen, but Sam had 
told him all he cared to know. If Selene was the diplomat of the village 
and Themina the brawn, Daniel didn't have to witness her physical 
prowess to know it to be impressive. 

Flanking either side of the doorway, Daniel and Jack braced themselves 
to enter the expansive building ready for anything. On a count of three, 
Jack led them through the door and what met their vision stopped them in 
their tracks. 

                         *******************

Sam found herself upside down and swaying left to right, not of her own 
volition. She figured Teal'c must have picked her up again after that 
horrifying fight with Leyda. The massive woman had shocked Sam with her 
ability to nearly defeat the strong Jaffa, and she felt her admiration 
for her friend increase. She knew had she not managed to retrieve his 
larvae, Teal'c would not have survived. She shook the thought out of her 
head. It hadn't happened. He was all right. 

Suddenly realizing how clearly she was thinking, Sam opened her eyes in 
excitement. Instead of seeing Teal'c's strong back, the broad shoulders 
that greeted her were a woman's. Sam jerked violently in an attempt to 
break free, but she discovered her clear thinking was not accompanied by 
regained muscle strength. 

The hulk carrying her bent over quickly and abruptly dumped Sam on her 
butt. Sam moaned at the rough handling. Her stomach cramped insidiously 
and she felt as though she was going to vomit. Instinctively curling on 
her side, Sam dry heaved painfully and squeezed her eyes shut once 
again. 

When she peeled them open again, Sam saw Teal'c's still body lying next 
to her. She raised her head weakly and realized they had been brought 
into the main hall. But by whom? And was Teal'c all right? Sam assessed 
his condition the best she could from her vantage point. He did not look 
well. 

Teal'c's skin had taken on a sickly ashen color. Sweat rolled down his 
face and he was also curled in a defensive ball. Sam flashed back to the 
fight with Leyda, the Amazon squeezing his larvae torturously. Angrily, 
Sam concluded it had been damaged. Judging from Teal'c's state of 
health, his primta was in as bad of shape as the Jaffa himself. 

Rustling noises above Sam's head drew her attention. She suspected them 
to be coming from their captor or captors. Raising her head as far as 
her weakened muscles would allow, Sam strained to catch sight of the 
other occupants of the hall. Her eyes fell on another still form huddled 
in the dark shadows of a corner. She squinted, focusing on the figure. 

It was Leyda, apparently still alive, though barely. The Amazon ruler 
wheezed noisily and her entire frame was shaking visibly. Each breath 
came weaker than the next and further apart. Despite herself, Sam felt 
pity for the dying woman. She stared at Leyda blindly, unable to figure 
out who had brought them all here. 

A large boot directly in her line of sight answered the question. 
Themina leaned down, an evil grin plastered on her face. Sam shivered 
and attempted to shift away from the woman, but a rough hand latched 
onto her arm, forcing her to remain as she was. 

"Sister Samantha! What a shock it is to see you in such poor health!" 
Themina falsely placated. 

Sam mustered up her strength for a weak reply, "Yeah, I'll bet you're 
real broken up about it." 

"Do I sense sarcasm in your words, Samantha? Really, that's not very 
lady like," Themina rumbled pleasantly, seeming extremely pleased with 
herself. 

"My apologies. I've had a rough day," Sam sighed. "Let's just skip all 
this talk, I'm not up for it. What do you want with us, Themina?" 

"You? Oh, nothing, really. The Jaffa interests me, but he is not looking 
well. Perhaps when he is healed, he will provide sufficient 
entertainment. For now, however, I still have your older companion. I 
tracked him closely and I figure he will know to head this way. I expect 
him shortly, along with the young one. A bonus I am much pleased with," 
Themina snarled. 

Sam attempted to betray no emotion at the Amazon's threats. Her eyes 
slid shut as she realized she and Teal'c had become bait for a live 
trap. She was helpless to aid the colonel this way and, if anything, was 
more of a detriment to him. Bargaining chips. Sam choked back a dismayed 
sob. 

She couldn't let this happen. She had to think of something, anything to 
stop Themina. Sam swallowed the fear and spat, "The colonel won't come 
here. He's--" 

Contradiction manifested itself in the form of Colonel Jack O'Neill and 
Doctor Daniel Jackson, who burst into the building ready to fight. 

                         *******************

Daniel's jaw dropped. He should've expected this. He could've seen it a 
mile away. Teal'c lay on the floor looking as bad as he had ever seen 
him, gray and semi-conscious. Beside him lay Sam, who was at least 
conscious, her eyes flashing recognition, sorrow and warning at him in 
equal amounts. Between them stood a dark, massive woman. Daniel assumed 
it was Themina - he had only seen her briefly at the beginning of this 
mission-from-hell - but she fit Sam's description perfectly. 

Daniel glanced over at Jack for confirmation and direction, but the 
older man's eyes were only for the Amazon standing between him and his 
friends. 

"Ah, what took you so long, slave? Moving a little slowly, are we?" 

"I'm moving just fine," Jack barked, his hand reaching back to his 
waistband. 

Daniel scanned the room, there was no way he could reach Sam and Teal'c 
until Themina moved, preferably very far away. He didn't think he could 
be of much use against Themina, but he was damned if he was going to sit 
idly by. 

Ah! Over in the corner. A huddled shape, quaking slightly, curled up, 
obviously in her death throes. Leyda? From the size of her and her dirty 
blond hair... it must be her. Daniel tried to piece together what had 
happened. Teal'c had probably gone up against her and taken her, 
injuries and all. No wonder he was in the condition he was in. 

Themina began to pace in a large circle, hefting her knife casually. 
Jack was doing the same with Selene's blade, his fingers running up and 
down the crudely decorated hilt as he looked for any angle to attack, 
any weakness. 

"Daniel, stay back. Help the others if you can," Jack bit off, jaw 
tightening. 

Daniel felt the tug of the bag on his shoulder; a good weapon if ever 
he'd seen one. If he only knew which would help Sam, he could use the 
rest against the growling woman, he shot a desperate look at Sam, who 
was lying back, exhausted. 

"Don't waste your time. As soon as I have finished with this one, I'll 
see to you lot in no time," she sneered. 

"Over my dead body," Jack shot back. 

"But that would spoil my fun!" Themina pouted and laughed. 

Jack was leaning heavily on one side, his injured knee obviously 
hindering his movements. Themina had noted his discomfort and as he put 
his weight on it, she sprang suddenly, driving at his bad side. Daniel 
winced as the colonel leapt back, landing badly on his ankle, barely 
managing to stay on his feet. 

Damn! He wasn't going to just stand by and watch this debacle. He had to 
do *something.* He knew Jack had ordered him to stay back, but honestly, 
he wasn't *that* bad and how could he possibly prove a hindrance in this 
macabre dance? A glint of light in the corner of his vision distracted 
him briefly and through the fuzzy air, he could see a knife lying 
unnoticed near Teal'c. 

Daniel could see Jack tiring rapidly. The older man parried Themina's 
blows and side-stepped those that came to close for comfort. But they 
were coming closer and closer and he was responding with fewer and fewer 
feints of his own. Themina was totally engrossed, her attention solely 
on taunting the airman she held at bay. 

Daniel shuffled around. Wanting to maintain the element of surprise, he 
inched his way to Teal'c's side. 

The wounds on Jack's arm and stomach had opened again and Daniel could 
see the blood staining his shirt. Themina lunged again and Jack avoided 
the knife, but not the follow up kick that swiped his feet from under 
him. Jack scrambled back again, looking desperately for Selene's knife. 
Daniel couldn't see it either, and turned his back on Themina to grab 
Teal'c's blade. 

"Well, that was fun while it lasted..." Themina padded to Jack, who was 
now stuck between the metaphorical rock and the hard place. He kicked 
back, but Daniel saw his legs had all but deserted him and Themina 
jumped joyfully out of the way, laughing gleefully. "Ah, a fighter to 
the end? That's sweet." 

Daniel pulled out the knife and advanced on the Amazon. Themina, sensing 
the movement behind her, twirled defensively. The movement managed to 
knock the knife from Daniel's grasp, but not before it had sliced into 
her arm. Jack, having retrieved his own weapon, managed a feeble thrust, 
adding a leg wound to the Amazon's collection. 

Roaring with pain and anger, Themina's hand lashed out, catching Daniel 
on the jaw and sending him flying into the wall. Daniel felt something 
snap in his chest. He slumped back, maroon spots pirouetting in front of 
his eyes. As the world swam up to meet him, he saw Jack make another 
desperate lunge. 

                         *******************

Jack saw Daniel go down and lurched forwards, but his knife hand was 
blocked by Themina's own. He landed on his bad side, sending another 
spasm up his side. Themina pressed her weight and Jack sprang back as 
lightly as he could, but failed to avoid her legs as she scissored him 
to the ground. 

He went down with a crash, hitting his hip badly. The pain was 
incredible and he curled up involuntarily, concentrating on his own 
private world of pain. The burly woman placed a booted foot on his knee 
and rolled him onto his back. 

Jack couldn't think, couldn't see. He felt the motion and he struggled 
against it. Themina kicked out again, forcing him to untwine his legs. 
Jack was getting dizzy with pain, the effects of the stimulant he'd been 
given earlier a mere memory. All he could do was scrabble with his free 
hand and search for his dropped knife. 

Nothing. Dirt and a few pebbles. Jack scooped up a handful desperately 
and with all his remaining strength, flung the dirt into the Amazon 
leader's eyes. 

"Gahhh!" she cried in annoyance. "Enough with the fooling." 

Themina kicked his other leg for good measure and kneeled down beside 
him. She grasped his hand before he could try anything else. With one 
swift movement, she ripped his shirt down the front and laughed. "I see 
someone has already tried their hand with you." She indicated the 
shallow wound across his stomach. " Selene never *could* control that 
temper of hers." 

Jack snorted, immediately regretting the act as his breath caught 
painfully in his throat. He struggled helplessly against her grip, his 
breath becoming more labored. The world dissolved into red again as she 
leaned in and bit his split lip. He drew his head back sharply to butt 
her. 

"NO!!!" 

Themina suddenly vanished from Jack's field of vision and the pressure 
on his wrists vanished. Jack struggled to rise on his elbows, finding 
his unlikely savior to be the mortally wounded Leyda. 

The huge giantess had gripped her wounded rival around the throat and 
was dragging her into the center of the room. 

"I know what you want, Themina. Trying to steal my tribute and my power- 
I see you studied well," The dying woman hissed ominously. 

"I learned from the best," Themina gurgled and twisted round in the 
vice-like grasp, bringing her hands up between the circle of the hold 
and breaking it. 

Jack wheezed, exhausted, trying to become as inconspicuous as possible. 
Using his forearms, he inched his way over to the rest of his team. 

"You know... I cannot let you... succeed me... without... a fight," 
Leyda gasped. 

Themina smiled back horribly, "Then I am prepared to give you one." 

The dueling women charged at each other with abandon, the immobile SG1 
forgotten. Themina rushed the Amazon Queen, pushing her into the wall. 
The whole building shook with the impact and Jack feared the walls would 
collapse on them. 

"Teal'c, Teal'c?" he tried, shaking the still Jaffa by the good 
shoulder. 

Teal'c roused, eyes flicking open in an instant. "O'Neill?" he replied 
in equally hushed tones. 

"We've got to get the hell outta here." 

                         *******************

Sitting up wearily, Teal'c watched as the two warring Amazons took their 
brawl out into the village. "Agreed." 

O'Neill pulled himself painfully to his feet and searched the room 
frantically as Teal'c attempted to wake Major Carter and Daniel Jackson. 
Ransacking the hall, O'Neill finally joined the others with a sigh of 
relief holding the longed-for item aloft. A GDO! 

Teal'c nodded with a slight smile - at last something was going their 
way. He struggled to pick up the mumbling major and frowned that even 
this task weakened him. O'Neill chose a couple of stout spears from the 
wall and tossed one over. 

"Walking stick," he mouthed quietly. 

Shifting his weight onto the narrow beam, he limped to the door. O'Neill 
was behind, with Daniel Jackson's arm over his shoulder. Peering around 
the doorframe, Teal'c was relieved to see no Amazons in sight. 

The distant whoops and cheers of a small crowd reached his ears. 
Obviously the bout had gained a small circle of spectators. Fortunately, 
they were headed in the opposite direction to the 'gate. 

Bearing his precious load, Teal'c set out for home, praying for no more 
problems. 

                         *******************

Daniel's head hung low and he struggled to raise it, but someone 
appeared to have filled it with lead. 

"J-jack?" he managed hoarsely. 

"Danny boy, back with us?" 

Daniel cringed at the intentional use of the nickname. "Yeah, I 'spose. 
What happened?" 

Jack grinned slightly. "Oh, just a little domestic squabble between our 
gracious hosts. We thought it best we didn't intrude and slipped away 
peacefully." 

"Can we stop?" Daniel coughed weakly, trying to ignore the spasming in 
his chest. 

"Thought you'd never ask. Teal'c! Wait up a second." 

Teal'c stopped and slid Sam gently to the ground. Jack leaned against a 
tree and eased himself and Daniel to the ground. Daniel winced painfully 
and Jack moved to see to his ribs. 

"Jack, no. I'll have to deal with Janet soon enough." 

Jack laughed. "Don't worry, you'll have plenty of time to prepare for 
her. We won't make it back any time soon at this pace." 

A hacking cough from Sam's direction drew all their attention and doused 
the brief levity. 

"God, Carter." Jack moved over to Sam and placed a hand on her cheek. "I 
don't know if she's going to make it." 

"O'Neill, I regret that I will no longer be able to carry Major Carter," 
Teal'c added, the pallor of his face supporting his statement. 

Jack looked around hopelessly. Teal'c was the only one who might be able 
to carry Carter ten kilometers on a good day, and he had just admitted 
how badly he was feeling. Exhaustion played on his every muscle. He knew 
they had to get moving again before they completely atrophied. 

"We could make a..." Daniel started, interrupted by a body-racking 
cough. He hunched over in distress, his arms clutched around his sides. 
Looking up again finally, he finished, "travois." 

A tiny track of blood made it's way unnoticed down Daniel's chin. 
"Daniel..." 

"What?" 

"You, uh, you have..." 

Jack stopped and simply grabbed the sleeve of his T-shirt and wiped the 
blood away. Daniel gazed back at him, wide eyed. 

Yeah. Shit. 

                         *******************

"Wh....happened?" 

"Little domest....best...intrude...peacefully." 

Sam faded in and out of consciousness. Her limbs were deadweight and it 
was increasingly difficult to breathe.. She could hear her companions 
distantly, but their words held no meaning. God, her head hurt so badly. 

"Janet...." 

"Plenty of time...won't make...soon..." 

Cramps attacked her stomach once again and Sam felt herself coughing 
weakly. The movement hindered her breathing further. Coolness suddenly 
enveloped half of her face and she leaned toward it gratefully. 

"God...I don't...she's going to make it..." 

"No longer be able...Carter..." 

"We could..........travois..." 

Sam felt herself being rolled gently onto something. The world moved 
erratically, her closed eyes adding to the spatial dementia. She was 
spinning down further and further, down a never-ending chasm. Sam 
cracked open her eyes a slit to see what was going on. 

What? How had they escaped? The trees blurred sickeningly. Faces of men 
scattered throughout the forest taunted her. Bleeding, moaning specters 
she wished would go away. She tried to turn away, but they were 
surrounding her. Pointing at her. Calling her evil. 

"Easy....Sam...try....drink..." a faint voice garnered her attention. 

Unexpectedly, an object was forced to her lips, a hand grabbing her jaw 
open firmly. She tried to turn away. No! Drinking was bad! She couldn't! 

"Jack....won't...you try..." 

"Carter...'mon...work..." 

Colonel? Sam automatically opened her lips, cool liquid flowing 
immediately into them. She choked, coughing painfully. It was so good. 

"Good....take...almost..." 

The jostling began again, and Sam felt herself slipping into the deep 
and welcoming recesses of unconsciousness. 

                         *******************

Fifteen minutes. He'd give them another fifteen minutes before sending 
SG2 after them. 

General George Hammond paced edgily in his office. Every ounce of him 
wanted to be in the control room, but he figured the Stargate was an 
immense pot. It wouldn't boil if you watched it. 

SG1 was only about a half an hour late returning from P3S 279, but with 
that team, half an hour was deadly. Hammond had even taken the liberty 
of notifying Dr. Fraiser to have the infirmary ready for multiple 
injuries. He didn't want to be pessimistic, but if he'd learned anything 
since he had headed the SGC it was not to assume silence was good. 

Glancing at the piles of paperwork he should be diligently completing, 
Hammond instead kneaded his temples. He heard running footsteps coming 
in his direction and turned to greet Sergeant Davis. 

"Sir! Off world activation. It's SG1!" the man cried and scurried back 
to the control room. 

Hammond followed at a brisk walk, heart thumping wildly in his chest. He 
sent up a brief prayer that his concern was unfounded, just this once. 
He'd selected SG1 for this mission because they had been overstressed 
lately and this looked routine. Unfortunately, there was no absolute 
when it came to alien worlds, he knew. 

He raced into the control room just as the iris retracted. Seconds 
later, the sight that greeted him affirmed his suspicion. 

"Medical team to the Stargate room!" 

                         *******************

Daniel never thought he'd be so glad to see the dim walls of the SGC. 
Today the normally stark atmosphere was a comforting blanket. His feet 
hit the ramp and all his energy abandoned him. He tried to maintain his 
grip on the travois, but with a silent apology to Sam his fingers 
released. Daniel faintly heard it crash behind him the same instant his 
knees connected with steel. 

Strong, small hands grasped his shoulders tightly. He could hear Jack 
calling for help, his words muffled and distorted in Daniel's ears. 
Activity bustled around him, everything melding together into one big, 
hazy blur. Daniel's eye's blinked slowly, each time they closed it 
became more difficult to open them. 

"Dr. Jackson! Daniel?!" a woman's voice called loudly. 

"Sam..." was all he could muster. 

"Sir, he's not responding. Can you tell me what's wrong with him?" 

"Broken ribs, possible internal injuries." Jack's voice wavered. 

                         *******************

"And Carter's been poisoned with something. The bag has stuff that might 
help. We tried to get fluids into her. Teal'c let some crazy lady squish 
Junior and I...feel like sh--" Jack gasped as he joined Daniel on the 
ramp. 

He saw Carter hoisted onto a gurney and hauled away. He turned his 
attention to Daniel. The scientist had become increasingly white as 
their journey progressed, the blood trickling out of his mouth steadily. 
And yet the kid had insisted on dragging Carter along. Said he was in no 
worse shape than he or Teal'c, so damnit, let him help. 

"What about you, sir?" a medic asked him. 

Jack stared numbly at the white clad figure. "What?" 

"O'Neill's leg has been severely damaged. I believe he also sustained 
injuries to his ribcage, though not to the extent of Daniel Jackson," 
Teal'c contributed wanly. 

                         *******************

Teal'c hunched over, latching onto the railing for support. There had 
been moments during their trek back to the Stargate where he questioned 
whether they would make it. Teal'c didn't like the loss of control he'd 
been dealing with since Leyda injured his symbiote. 

Medics swarmed around him, blocking the view of his friends. If Teal'c 
felt one hundred percent, he would brush them aside authoritatively. But 
his muscles were uncooperative. Fleeting glances revealed Major Carter 
and Daniel Jackson were already well on their way to the infirmary. 
O'Neill was being carried to a gurney. Teal'c felt himself being led to 
his transport and did not hesitate to collapse on it. 

"All right people! Move!" 

Teal'c heard nothing more. 

                         *******************

Janet wanted to clone herself and be in four different places at once. 
She knew she couldn't do that, so she relinquished the care of Daniel, 
the colonel and Teal'c to her trustworthy staff and focused her 
attention on Sam. The young major's pulse was thready, her breathing 
ragged and even in her unconscious state, Sam retched convulsively. 
Colonel O'Neill mentioned poison, but that didn't really help her much. 

"OK - let's get a full blood workup. I want to know exactly what we're 
dealing with. In the meantime, I want charcoal. We've no idea if she 
still has the poison in her stomach, but I'm not taking any chances. 
Start an IV, stat. We need to watch her potassium levels and I'm sure 
her electrolytes are out of whack." 

Janet watched her orders carried out. She kept an eye on Sam's vitals 
until she was satisfied they were stable. Now all they could do is wait 
for the results of the drug screen. Janet moved quickly to the next 
patient on the list. 

Dr. Warner's hands worked surely and rapidly on Daniel. Janet took the 
opportunity to appraise the scientist from a distance. His face was more 
bruised than not, his throat showed signs of strangulation and his bare 
chest revealed severe discoloration indicative of the broken ribs the 
colonel warned of. All things considered, Daniel didn't look too bad. 

"Dr. Warner, what's his condition?" 

"Dr. Fraiser," her colleague greeted, "He's got superficial bruising to 
his face and throat. Three broken ribs on the right side, one of which 
punctured his lung. He has some minor internal hemorrhage. We need to 
get him into surgery right away, but I think he'll be just fine." 

Janet breathed a sigh of relief. Two semi-positive, at least not 
negative reports down, two to go. She edged her way over to Colonel 
O'Neill, totally surprised to find him still conscious. 

"Hey, sir," she said softly. 

"Doc. Carter, Teal'c, Daniel?" 

"In a moment. First I want to be sure you're all right." 

"Doc!" 

"Ah! Now let's see that leg. Looks like you decided to abuse an already 
abused body part. Did a pretty good job of it, too. You're going to be 
off it for at least three weeks. And your face looks as bad as Daniel's. 
Really, Colonel, I'd think you two were competing or something," Janet 
teased, knowing it was inappropriate. Somehow the colonel always brought 
out her snide side. 

"Funny, Doc. I'll live. Just remind me never to take a stomp through the 
woods on an injured leg again." 

Janet stopped smiling. "Colonel, what happened to you out there?" 

O'Neill's eyes were unfocused and closing as he said, "I'll tell ya 
after you tell me how Carter, Teal'c and Dan--" 

Brushing a hand through the sleeping man's hair, Janet left his side and 
headed for Teal'c. The Jaffa lay unconscious, his pulse weak and 
sporadic. His normally caramel complexion was instead waxy and gray. She 
knew there was very little anyone could do for Teal'c. It was all up to 
his larva now, provided it had not been too severely damaged. She'd have 
to keep an eye on it and inform General Hammond immediately if it looked 
like it wouldn't survive. Janet knew most if not all of the teams would 
volunteer to make a 'baby Goa'uld run' if it came down to it. 

As with all of them, time would tell. Speaking of that, she was positive 
she knew a Major General who would be interested to know how her 
patients were faring. 

                         *******************

"Doctor. How are they doing?" Hammond anxiously greeted the petite woman 
as she exited her office. 

"Oh, hello, General Hammond. I was just on my way to see you," Dr. 
Fraiser said quickly. 

Hammond studied her face for signs of bad news. While some doctors were 
able to remove emotion from their expressions, Janet Fraiser couldn't. 
Not with the uniqueness of her clientele. Hammond appreciated that she 
truly cared for each member of the SGC and counted it one of her most 
valuable attributes. His shoulders relaxed with the anticipated 
good...or rather not bad...news he was about to receive. 

"Well, sir," Fraiser continued, "First, they're all severely dehydrated, 
I've got IV's correcting that. Colonel O'Neill is in the best condition 
out of all of them. Now that's not to say he's in tiptop shape. He's got 
nice bruising on his ribs, but no breaks. He'll be tender for a while. 
He also looks like he's been subjected to some minor strangulation, also 
not an issue. The crux of his injuries is his right knee. If I'd have to 
venture a guess, it started out as a simple aggravation. Somewhere along 
the line, whoever did this to them must have decided to continue the 
abuse. That coupled with prolonged activity on it did extensive damage. 
We'll see how it heals on it's own, but surgery may be called for. If 
all goes well, I'd estimate him to be off his feet for about a month." 
The doctor paused briefly. 

Hammond dreaded her next words. If Colonel O'Neill had just been 
grounded for a minimum of a month, he didn't want to think about the 
rest of SG1's injuries. It couldn't be good. Hell, just *looking* at 
them told him that. 

Dr. Fraiser seemed to read his body language, saying, "Don't worry, sir. 
Barring any complications, all of them will be just fine. Teal'c is hard 
to predict, as most of the injuries he sustained actually were to his 
symbiote. I'm afraid there's not much we can do but hope it will be able 
to recover and in turn heal him. There are indications of a severe 
beating some time ago. Fortunately, it must have been before the assault 
on his larvae. Right now, he's got a high fever we'll need to monitor. 
If I don't see any improvement in his symbiote in the next 24 hours, 
I'll be very concerned." 

"I'll send a message to the Tok'ra to see if they would be willing to 
assist us in obtaining a new larvae if necessary," Hammond noted 
immediately. No way in hell would he just let Teal'c die. 

"Of course, sir." Fraiser sounded relieved. "Daniel has three broken 
ribs, a punctured lung and some minor internal bleeding. Dr. Warner's in 
surgery with him right now. He should be just fine. Daniel also 
sustained similar bruising to the face and throat as Colonel O'Neill to 
a larger degree. As I said earlier, barring complications with the 
surgery, he should make a full recovery. He'll be off his feet as long 
as the colonel." 

"What about Major Carter?" 

"Sam was poisoned. Drug screen indicates poison hemlock, and we've 
pumped her stomach as a safeguard. Her blood work also indicated high 
alcohol content, and I'm guessing that was the method of delivery. Had 
she drunk anymore, I'd be concerned with alcohol poisoning. We're also 
monitoring both her electrolytes and potassium levels closely. When she 
came in, I thought she might have chest aspiration. Fortunately for 
Major Carter, whoever was administering this poison was not very 
careful. She was not given a lethal dosage. That's the only thing that 
kept her alive." 

The litany of injuries resonated in Hammond's head. All this from a 
routine mission. Fate both spit and smiled on SG1 once again. 

                         *******************

His sweat dampened skin was drying quickly as a result of the brisk air 
in the infirmary breezing over his body. Shivering uncontrollably, 
Teal'c opened his eyes to find the worried faces of Dr. Fraiser and 
General Hammond hovering over him. Throat too dry to talk, Teal'c waived 
his left hand toward his throat. He was rewarded with ice chips, causing 
his trembling to increase. 

"Hey, Teal'c, how're you feeling?" Dr. Fraiser asked gently, pulling a 
blanket to his neck. 

Teal'c swallowed the melted ice and ignored the inquiry. His mind 
flashed back to a similar scenario, him waking up in the infirmary to 
discover his friends gone. "SG1?" 

"They're going to be just fine, Teal'c," Dr. Fraiser assured. 

On cue, O'Neill's voice sounded through the infirmary. "Hey, Teal'c! 
Glad you could join me!" 

Teal'c relaxed at O'Neill's good-humored remark. He lifted his head off 
the pillow to get a better view of the room. O'Neill was three beds 
away, sitting up and looking considerably better than Teal'c last 
remembered. 

"It is good to see you, O'Neill. What are the conditions of Daniel 
Jackson and Major Carter?" Teal'c felt his strength returning. Dr. 
Fraiser's faced suddenly filled his line of vision, her brows knitted. 

"Both still unconscious, but stable. Daniel got out of surgery to stop 
internal bleeding about two hours ago. He will be just fine and should 
wake soon. Major Carter had a close call - she nearly suffered 
respiratory arrest. You guys got her back before any permanent damage 
was done. She'll be on a respirator for a while." 

Teal'c's head fell limply back onto the pillow, relief filling him. Dr. 
Fraiser's warm hand held his wrist as she checked his pulse. Her hand 
moved to his forehead and rested there. Teal'c allowed himself to take 
comfort in her kind touch. 

"So we all get an unscheduled vacation," O'Neill chimed in. "Now if we 
could just get the sleeping beauties to wake up." 

"It's nice to see you following the rules for a change, Colonel," Dr. 
Fraiser laughingly said. 

"Well, you've kind of got me immobilized here, Doc. I'm choiceless. 
Besides, I'll have pretty good company this time. Usually it's just your 
evil henchnurses." 

"Colonel! I think you'd better watch your mouth. These henchnurses have 
your health in their hands, you know." 

"You think I'm scared? I just got back from Amazon Central. Bring it 
on!" 

Teal'c couldn't hold back the smile. It was indeed good to be back home. 
He would be completely at ease once his other two friends were awake, 
but for now Teal'c was lulled into sleep by the banter. 

                         *******************

Daniel's head felt twice its usual size. Again. He could hear muffled 
laughter, accompanied by beeping monitors. A soft mattress cradled his 
sore body. He'd almost forgotten what that was like. Rustling to his 
left make him turn toward it, a sigh escaping before he could prevent 
it. 

"Doc, I think he's waking up!" a voice bellowed. 

Footsteps clattered toward him and he opened his eyes hesitantly, not 
quite ready for the assault on his retinas. Dr. Fraiser snatched up her 
penlight and immediately shined it in his unprepared eyes. Daniel 
groaned and wondered why she never gave him any warning. She released 
her grip and he blinked rapidly. 

"Hello, Dr. Jackson," Dr. Fraiser said. 

"Unh..." he replied. Instantly, ice chips appeared at his lips. He took 
them in gratefully. 

"That's all you have to say?" Jack joked. 

Daniel swung his head toward the older man. Jack sat in a wheelchair at 
his bedside, right leg shooting out in front of him, swathed in braces 
and bandages. 

"Sam, Teal'c?" Daniel rasped. 

"Teal'c's two beds down, he's all right. Junior came through for us 
again. Carter's still unconscious but Doc says she'll be OK." 

"Good," Daniel breathed and closed his eyes again. His side throbbed in 
beat with his head, but the pain was bearable now that they were home. 

The trip back to the Stargate had been harrowing. Moans and pleas he'd 
somehow tuned out while in the village surrounded them. Countless men, 
bloodied and abused begged for help. Help they couldn't provide. But 
Daniel would make sure to argue their case to General Hammond. Surely 
the Amazons would consider changing their lifestyle. An all female team 
could go through and-- 

"Sorry, Danny," Jack said, eerily responding to his thoughts. "P3S 279 
has been put on the Do Not Return To list." 

Daniel's eyes popped open. "Shouldn't we do something for those men? How 
can we allow them to suffer like that if we can prevent it? We've lived 
it, Jack!" 

"C'mon, Daniel. I believe you've always advocated not influencing or 
interfering with cultures." 

"I know, Jack. But this was directly caused by a Goa'uld. We should help 
them," Daniel pleaded. 

"What're we going to do? Take out all the women? This ritual has been 
ingrained for generations." 

"There has to be something. We'll think of something," Daniel cried, 
grabbing at his side when it objected to his vehemence. 

"Not now, you won't," Dr. Fraiser said with finality, gently pushing his 
head back down. "Now you'll rest. All of you." 

She went directly to Jack and began wheeling him toward his bed. Daniel 
slid his eyes shut again. Actually, now that she mentioned it, rest 
seemed like a really good idea. 

                         *******************

Two smiles met Sam as she flickered her eyes open. Colonel O'Neill and 
Teal'c were seated on their haunches, ready to jump at her first move. 
Well, Teal'c was ready to jump. The colonel would have to be content 
with rolling. His wheelchair wouldn't allow for anything else. 
Wheelchair? 

"Get out of my way, Jack! I can't see!" Daniel's eager voice rang out. 

Sam turned her head as far as all the tubes would allow to see Daniel in 
the bed adjacent to hers. She was glad that all three of her teammates 
were apparently all right. Daniel had just about as many tubes running 
into him as she did - though he only had nose prongs for oxygen instead 
of an uncomfortable mask Sam noted a little enviously. The colonel still 
looked tired, but coping fairly well in his forced seated position. 
Teal'c even looked fairly well compared to how she last remembered 
seeing him, but not nearly up to usual Jaffa standards. 

Sam laughed weakly at their antics. She regretted it as it turned to 
racking coughs. Hands leaned her forward and rubbed her back until the 
fit was over. The same hands then removed her mask and provided her with 
a glass of water. 

"Well, if it isn't the Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion and Tinman," Sam managed 
finally. 

"Carter? How are you feeling? Doc! Damnit, where is that woman?" 

"I'm right here, Colonel. If you'd be so kind as to move, I can see to 
my patient. Hi, Sam. I'm going to do a couple of checks, OK?" 

Sam nodded. Janet could do anything and she wouldn't care. She was away 
from that place. From the blood and craziness. Closing her eyes, Sam was 
visited by horrific images of men scrabbling for escape, too weak to 
move more than a few feet. After only one day of that damned festival. 

"Looks good," Janet confirmed. "Of course, you won't be leaving here 
until your lungs have recovered fully. Even now they aren't looking too 
bad. We'll keep you with an oxygen mask for the next few days and if 
you're lucky you'll only be here a week." 

Sam only half heard the petite doctor. "We have to go back and help 
them," she said abruptly, knowing her friends would know whom she was 
referencing. 

"Funny, that's what Daniel said. General Hammond was ready to nix the 
planet, but Supertalk here convinced him otherwise," the colonel 
commented caustically. "Personally, I don't plan on another visit." 

"Sam, I discovered an unusual substance in your bloodstream, alongside 
the poison. After analysis, it was determined to be a testosterone-like 
chemical. Daniel mentioned how your behavior changed almost immediately 
after consuming some alcohol?" 

"Yeah, about that--" 

"Forget it, Carter." 

"Sam, don't--" 

"Major Carter, you do not need to mention it." 

Sam grinned, positive her face was bright red despite their assurances. 
Chemical or no, she'd humiliated herself. The earnest faces of her 
teammates showed she had not lost ground with them. She wasn't ready to 
completely give up the guilt, but she let it slide, nodding instead for 
someone to continue. 

"Anyway, based on fact the drug was influencing them to a high extent, I 
think the Amazons truly can change. If we send only women back to the 
planet and attempt to detoxify the women, they might consider changing 
their ways," Daniel finished. 

"And Hammond bought that," the colonel stated almost quizzically. 

"Indeed," Teal'c said. "There seemed little indication Artemis had made 
a visit to the planet in recent history. Should this remain the case, 
the society could very well be changed forever." 

Sam tried to assimilate all being thrust at her, but she was still too 
weak and tired. She simply smiled her approval. Like the colonel, Sam 
had an intense aversion to returning to P3S 279. She was happy General 
Hammond agreed to help the men, and hoped that knowledge would be enough 
to lessen the nightmares she knew would come. 

The End