Transcript

Summary | Analysis | Production | Transcript | Review

The impending wedding of his son is the least of Teal'c's worries when the Hak'tyl plan an uprising against the Goa'uld Moloc, driving a wedge between Teal'c and Ishta.

EPISODE #809
ORIGINAL AIR DATE: 09.10.2004
SYNDICATION AIR DATE: 11.14.2005
DVD DISC: Season 8, Disc 3
WRITTEN BY: Christopher Judge
DIRECTED BY: Andy Mikita
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Transcript by Callie Sullivan

S.G.C. - CORRIDOR. Jack and Daniel are walking along a corridor.

JACKSON: Bra'tac believed that the only way to eliminate all of the System Lords is to recruit as many Jaffa in the fifth column as possible. Now, only when their numbers are sufficient would it be possible to rise up and unilaterally destroy all the Goa'uld at once. (Jack looks at him blankly but Daniel doesn't notice.) Even then, Baal controls the super-soldier army which cannot be turned.

HARRIMAN (over tannoy): Incoming wormhole.

JACKSON: So even if the rebel Jaffa can some day take out the majority of the System Lords, there'd still be a massive war to fight. The problem is, though, Ishta doesn't want to wait. Moloc is continuing to order the deaths of all female Jaffa born in his domain and their underground railroad to Hak'tyl can't save them all. (Jack starts walking in the wrong direction as Daniel continues talking, but then turns and follows him. Daniel, wrapped up his narration, doesn't even notice.) Even now she's organizing a rebellion to overthrow Moloc. Now, Teal'c and Bra'tac are trying to convince her to see the ... the bigger picture. (He gestures grandly as he finishes.)

O'NEILL: ... What was my question again?

JACKSON: Um, 'how's it going?'

O'NEILL: Seemed so innocuous at the time. (He and Daniel enter the Gate Room just as Teal'c and Bra'tac come through the Gate and walk down the ramp.) Fellas! How was the trip?

TEAL'C: I have been betrayed by those I trusted most. (He walks past Jack and Daniel and leaves the Gate Room.)

O'NEILL (turning to watch him go): That good, eh?

BRA'TAC: His mood is foul indeed. (Jack and Daniel turn to face him.) Greetings. It is good to see you both.

JACKSON: Bra'tac, what's wrong?

BRA'TAC: There was a complication.

O'NEILL: Ishta?

BRA'TAC: She is well -- and as lovely as ever, O'Neill. (Jack raises his eyebrows, then shrugs.) The problem, I fear, lies with Rya'c.

JACKSON: Is he OK?

BRA'TAC: He is in love, and plans to be married. Hmph! (He leaves the Gate Room.)


S.G.C. - SPORTS ROOM. Jack and Teal'c are preparing to play table tennis. Jack blows out a few exaggerated breaths in preparation. Teal'c stands at the other end of the table, looking very glum.

O'NEILL: So when's all this supposed to happen? (He serves. Teal'c smashes the ball back straight into Jack's arm, who yelps in pain and clutches his arm.)

TEAL'C: Three days.

O'NEILL (picking up the ball from the floor): Three days, huh? That's kinda quick.

TEAL'C: Indeed.

O'NEILL: Well, you know love ... is a strange and mysterious thing. (He serves the ball. Again Teal'c smashes it back, this time hitting the top of Jack's leg. Jack clutches his leg in pain.) Ow! God!

TEAL'C: Rya'c did not even consult me before making this decision. It is obvious this girl has caused all reason to leave Rya'c's head.

O'NEILL (preparing to serve): Zero serving three.

TEAL'C: Serving eight.

O'NEILL: Eight. (He serves. Teal'c smashes the ball back, hitting Jack's leg in the same place as before. Jack doubles up in pain.) Ah! (He straightens up.) So, what (his voice cracks momentarily, then improves) what's, uh, Ishta think of all this? (He tosses the ball across the table to Teal'c.)

TEAL'C: Ishta believes that tradition should persist at all costs, especially in the face of oppression.

O'NEILL: I see.

(Teal'c serves the ball. It comes across the table so fast that Jack doesn't even move before it flies past him. He turns and watches it bounce across the floor.)

TEAL'C: Rya'c is too young to know what love is, O'Neill, or how it inevitably weakens a warrior's resolve.

O'NEILL: Look, T, I'm not gonna tell you how to raise your kid ... but I've always found that sticking your fingers in your ears and humming loudly solves a whole slew of problems.

(Teal'c smiles briefly.)

TEAL'C: What good am I as a father, O'Neill, if I cannot keep my son from making this crucial mistake?

(Alarms sound.)

HARRIMAN (over tannoy): Unscheduled off-world activation.

(Teal'c tosses the ball to Jack and walks away. Jack serves the ball across the table and makes a tiny triumphant gesture before following him, then grunts in pain as his damaged leg protests at having to walk.)


CONTROL ROOM. Jack and Teal'c walk in. Walter is at the desk.

HARRIMAN: Receiving I.D.C., sir. It's Ishta.

O'NEILL: Open the iris. (He and Teal'c head for the Gate Room.)


GATE ROOM. The iris opens. Teal'c precedes Jack through the side door but Jack shoves him out of the way so that he can go first, giving Teal'c a black look and a 'me first' gesture as he goes. The sound of people coming through the Gate can be heard, then the wormhole disengages. Ishta and one of her lieutenants come down the ramp.

O'NEILL: Greetings!

(Teal'c bows to the women.)

ISHTA: There is an urgent matter we must discuss. Hak'tyl may have been compromised.


BRIEFING ROOM. SG-1 are sitting on one side of the table while Bra'tac, Ishta, and her lieutenant sit on the other. Jack is at the head of the table.

JACKSON: How do you know?

ISHTA: Yesterday we were to meet one of our contacts -- a high priestess stationed within Moloc's temple. She failed to appear at the allotted time.

TEAL'C: You must evacuate immediately.

ISHTA: I agree, but we know not of another uninhabited planet like Hak'tyl. Hiding a large group of female warriors and children within a populated planet in Moloc's domain is difficult, and dangerous.

O'NEILL: Well, I'm sure we could help you folks out. Carter?

CARTER: Uh, no problem. We have a number of possible worlds on record but they should be explored more thoroughly before you take up permanent residence.

ISHTA: If Moloc is aware of our location, every moment my people remain on Hak'tyl puts them at greater risk.

(She looks at Jack, who nods understandingly. Teal'c turns his head and looks at him, then Sam turns and looks at him too. Finally Jack realizes that he's supposed to say something.)

O'NEILL: Oh! Um ... er, er, you're welcome to stay here. (Ishta nods in gratitude.) I'll go start the paperwork. (He stands and leaves.)


GATE ROOM. The Gate is open and many of Ishta's people have already come through. A woman rides a horse through the Gate. Another horse is already in the Gate Room. Daniel is watching as the women, children and horses are escorted out of the Gate Room. Rya'c and a young woman come through the Gate and walk down to where Daniel and Sam are standing.

RYA'C: Colonel Carter. Doctor Jackson.

CARTER: Rya'c! It's good to see you again.

RYA'C: This is my sim'ka, Kar'yn.

KAR'YN (fondly): Rya'c, stop using those old terms. We are betrothed. (To Sam and Daniel) And it is an honour to meet friends of my husband-to-be.

JACKSON: Right back at ya!

RYA'C: Is she not the most beautiful thing you have ever seen?

KAR'YN: Stop it. You're embarrassing me. I'm not an object to be worshiped.

RYA'C (to Sam and Daniel): Thank you for agreeing to host our union ceremony. It will be an honour to be betrothed among friends.

JACKSON: Oh, you're gonna have the wedding here?!

KAR'YN: Of course. Ishta said it may take some time to find a suitable planet for our new home. We are to be married in three days!

(Sam is grinning rather fixedly. Daniel puts his left arm around her back and onto her left shoulder, and Sam puts her right hand on top of it. They both grin hugely.)

KAR'YN: There is much to do. (She smiles at Rya'c.) Rya'c? (She starts to tug him away.)

RYA'C: Excuse us. (He and Kar'yn leave the Gate Room, leaving Sam and Daniel still grinning.)

JACKSON: They're having the wedding here!

CARTER: Yeah!

JACKSON: Does Jack know about this?

(Sam's grin fades.)

CARTER: I'm gonna work on ... finding them a planet. (Daniel nods in agreement.) Yeah! (She leaves. Daniel raises his eyes skywards.)


JACK'S OFFICE. Jack is doing paperwork as Bra'tac comes to the door and taps on it.

O'NEILL (without looking up): Come in. (Bra'tac walks in. Jack finally looks up.) Bra'tac. (Bra'tac walks a few steps further into the room, then stops.) What's that smell?

BRA'TAC: I believe that is the horses, O'Neill. (Jack nods.) The warriors of Hak'tyl are grateful for your generosity.

O'NEILL: Well -- you know me. Always willing to help those who ... need help.

BRA'TAC: You are indeed a wise and gracious leader, O'Neill of Minnesota.

O'NEILL (looking at him suspiciously): Siddown, y'old coot. (Bra'tac sits.) What?

BRA'TAC: I am to officiate at the rite of everlasting union between Rya'c and Kar'yn. I have consulted with Ishta on the matter and despite the evacuation of Hak'tyl, she wishes the wedding to proceed as planned -- and as scheduled.

O'NEILL: Meaning here.

BRA'TAC: A more suitable world is not likely to be found in time. Delaying the ceremony would only grant another victory to Moloc's tyranny.

O'NEILL: D'you know what it took to get approval for Tailgate Tuesdays, huh? (Bra'tac looks at him blankly. Jack looks down, thinking, then looks up again.) There would be cake?

(Bra'tac smiles and nods.)


ISHTA'S QUARTERS. Ishta is unpacking some of her belongings. Teal'c opens the door without knocking and walks in, closing the door behind him.

TEAL'C: You have been avoiding me.

ISHTA: You have indicated I am not worthy of your presence.

TEAL'C: How so?

ISHTA: Your refusal to bless this union is an insult to Kar'yn and thus to me.

TEAL'C: That is not what I intended. Rya'c has pledged to help lead the Jaffa in the battle against the Goa'uld.

ISHTA: As have I, and my people. A warrior is always stronger with another at his side -- so you must believe Kar'yn to be an unworthy warrior, and I am at fault as her teacher.

TEAL'C: Ishta, this is not about you. Soon enough Rya'c will have to choose between his responsibility to his family and to that of his cause -- just as I once did. I merely believe that he is young and has much time ahead, and need not undertake such decisions so soon.

ISHTA: In the same way Rya'c had no say in your decision, you have no say in his. None of us choose oppression at the hand of the Goa'uld, nor what must be done to free ourselves of it, but we must not sacrifice that which makes us Jaffa. I have organized both men and women to fight together -- to rise up against Moloc. Maybe once we are free of his tyranny, you will see that we are worthy of your war.

TEAL'C: Overthrowing Moloc alone will ultimately prove nothing. Were he to fall, his worlds and armies would simply be usurped by another Goa'uld.

ISHTA (angrily): I will not stand idly by and watch more of my sisters slain at the hand of Moloc while you, and the leaders of this so-called Jaffa rebellion, you plot and you scheme and you ultimately do nothing!

TEAL'C (equally angry): You have no wish to fight side-by-side -- only to control and dominate.

ISHTA: As my sisters have been for generations!

TEAL'C: As you will continue to be because of your short-sightedness.

ISHTA: I will not rest until Moloc is dead.

TEAL'C: And I will not rest until all Goa'uld are dead. (He turns and leaves the room.)


CORRIDOR. Sam is walking along. Jack comes out of a side door and grabs her by both arms.

O'NEILL: They want a what?!

CARTER: A goat, sir.

(Jack lets her go and they start to walk.)

O'NEILL: You can tell them lamb is far less gamey.

CARTER: They ... (she pauses as a little girl runs past) they want it for a ritual sacrifice.

O'NEILL: Yeah, well you can tell 'em that's not gonna happen.

(He and Sam look at a group of children sitting in a corner of the corridor playing a game with stones.)

CARTER: Yeah, I was hoping you'd say that.

O'NEILL: They can have a pinata -- that's always fun.

CARTER: I'll suggest it, sir.

(She and Jack flatten themselves against the wall as a horse is led past. Jack pushes its rump out of the way as it goes past him, then he and Sam turn and watch the rather unbelievable sight of a horse clopping down the corridor. Jack turns to Sam and seizes her by the arms again.)

O'NEILL: Please tell me you're close to finding a planet.

CARTER: We scouted one yesterday that Ishta seems comfortable with -- fresh water, stable climate ...

(Jack looks down and realises that he's still holding Sam by the arms. He lets her go and they start to walk again.)

O'NEILL: Good. When's moving day?

CARTER: Uh, Ishta thinks it'll take about a week to get a liveable camp going.

O'NEILL: A week?!

CARTER: Yes, sir. (Jack turns and watches some of the Hak'tyl women walk past. Sam takes his arm and steers him back along the corridor.) The, uh, the wedding is still gonna happen here.

O'NEILL: You seen Teal'c?

CARTER: I think he's locked himself in his room.

O'NEILL: That chicken!


GATE ROOM. At the foot of the ramp is a small table with a brazier on it. Bra'tac stands at the table with his back to the Gate, holding a burning firelighter. He has just lit the brazier. Rya'c and Kar'yn stand either side of the table, facing each other. Several of the Hak'tyl women, including Ishta, are standing nearby. Bra'tac blows out the flame on the firelighter.

BRA'TAC: Let this fire bear witness to this ceremony. May its flames keep warm the souls of those who came before us. We ask those spirits now to bless this union and to protect it through each day of its existence. And then the horn will sound. (He looks off to the side. Somebody off-screen sounds two notes on a horn.) Good. Now -- (he turns to Rya'c) you will place the circle of fidelity upon Kar'yn's head.

(Someone hands Rya'c a circlet woven from leaves. He puts it onto Kar'yn's head.)

BRA'TAC (to Kar'yn): And you, the totem of bravery (he lifts a medallion on a chain to his mouth and kisses it before handing it to Kar'yn) around Rya'c's neck. (Kar'yn does so.) The bride will then kneel before her husband in respect.

(Up until now Rya'c and Kar'yn have been smiling happily but now Kar'yn's smile fades. Ishta too looks concerned.)

KAR'YN: I will do no such thing.

RYA'C (also losing his smile): Kar'yn.

KAR'YN: I kneel before no man, not even my husband.

BRA'TAC: This action has been part of the ceremony for thousands ...

KAR'YN (interrupting): Then he should kneel before me as well. (To Rya'c) Or am I too weak to have such respect given to me in return?

RYA'C: You disgrace my name.

BRA'TAC: Perhaps if we took a short recess.

KAR'YN (to Rya'c): And if you insist on treating me like a fragile handmaiden, then I have chosen poorly for a husband.

RYA'C: Well, perhaps I have chosen poorly as well.

(Kar'yn pulls the circlet off her head and throws it down before storming out of the Gate Room. Most of the women follow her. In the Control Room, Teal'c is watching with a smug smile on his face. In the Gate Room, Rya'c takes off his medallion and hands it to Bra'tac before leaving the room.)

BRA'TAC (picking up a goblet from the table): I can see why one must rehearse these events. (He takes a drink.)

(Behind him, the Gate starts to dial in.)

HARRIMAN (in the Control Room): Unscheduled off-world activation. (He closes the iris. Behind the iris, the Gate activates. Teal'c walks over to Walter.) Receiving a message. Onscreen.

(Teal'c looks at the message as Bra'tac and Ishta walk in.)

TEAL'C: Ishta. This concerns you.

ISHTA (looking at the message): It's from one of my contacts among Moloc's Jaffa. He's requesting a summit.

TEAL'C: For what reason?

ISHTA: Our forces that are hiding among the Jaffa of Moloc have become large, but there are still many who are loyal to him. We risk being exposed. We must send the co-ordinates of the new homeworld to those who will attend.

TEAL'C: Very well. I will accompany you to this summit.

ISHTA: You have no say in our matters.

TEAL'C: Perhaps there is counsel I can provide.

ISHTA (walking close to him and looking at him sternly): You will abide by my ruling.

(Teal'c looks at her for a moment, then looks across to Bra'tac. He then looks back to Ishta and bows to her.)


ISHTA'S QUARTERS. Ishta is preparing to leave. Kar'yn is with her.

KAR'YN: Can I come with you?

ISHTA: Do not be foolish -- you have a union to prepare for.

KAR'YN: There will be no union.

ISHTA (sighing): Kar'yn, you must learn not to let your emotions take you to such extremes.

KAR'YN: I cannot be betrothed to Rya'c. He is as pig-headed as his father.

(Ishta leans forward and seizes Kar'yn's chin.)

ISHTA: Until you have fought as many battles, do not speak of Teal'c of Chulak with such disrespect. Without him we would not have tretonin. (She holds up a tretonin injector.) And we would still be slaves to the Goa'uld symbiotes. (She lets Kar'yn go and injects herself.)

KAR'YN: But how can you accept his affection knowing he does not support our war against Moloc and the archaic traditions that oppress female Jaffa?

ISHTA: We differ often, but deep down we both possess the same hunger for freedom.

KAR'YN: Does he not see me fit for Rya'c?

ISHTA: He could search a thousand worlds and never find someone like you. Teal'c has sacrificed much in the war against the Goa'uld and does not wish Rya'c to feel the pain of such loss.

KAR'YN: What about Rya'c? He does not respect me as a warrior as Teal'c respects you.

ISHTA: That took some convincing, believe me. What you must remember is that, as much as you desire Rya'c's respect, he too burns for yours.


SPORTS ROOM. Rya'c is training with a stick (or broom handle?) about the same size and length as a staff weapon. He is twirling it about angrily. Bra'tac comes into the room behind him and, as Rya'c spins around, Bra'tac grabs the stick.

BRA'TAC: Your parries are too low. Hold your staff higher; step into each blocking blow.

RYA'C: Leave me be.

BRA'TAC (letting go of the stick): As you wish. (He turns and starts to walk away.)

RYA'C: Have I not been a dutiful son? Have I not brought honour to my name?

BRA'TAC (turning back towards Rya'c): You have indeed.

RYA'C: Then why will my father not bless my union with Kar'yn?

BRA'TAC: Then the union is still to be?

RYA'C: That is not the point.

BRA'TAC: You have made a choice. You pledged your life to fight for freedom for all Jaffa. It is a war you must commit to without question.

RYA'C: I know! That is why my father abandoned my mother and I -- because we made him weak. (He slams one end of the stick down onto the floor.)

BRA'TAC: That is not true.

RYA'C: He knows I forgave him for that long ago. I understand why it was necessary.

BRA'TAC: Do you? Hmm? Teal'c stayed First Prime of Apophis as long as he did because he feared for you. He committed atrocities in the name of the Goa'uld because he wanted you and your mother to be safe. When he chose to leave to join the Tau'ri, it was the most difficult thing he has ever done. It is not you that made him weak, but his own fear and doubt. When he realized the Goa'uld could indeed be defeated, that if he fought hard enough, you could one day be free, it made him stronger.

RYA'C: It is the same for me with Kar'yn. She fuels my desire to fight for freedom. We know what we must face, and we choose to do it together.

(Bra'tac puts his hand on Rya'c's shoulder.)

BRA'TAC: You still have much to learn about yourself; about being a warrior -- and neither of you truly know what we will all face in a full-scale war with the Goa'uld.

RYA'C: I do not need his blessing.

BRA'TAC (looking into Rya'c's face): No -- you do not. (He turns to leave.)

RYA'C: And he insults Kar'yn. She is a formidable warrior who deserves his respect.

BRA'TAC (turning back to face Rya'c): And yours. (He leaves the room.)


NEW HAK'TYL HOMEWORLD (hereafter referred to as 'HOMEWORLD'). Two female Jaffa and two male Jaffa are guarding the Gate. Some distance away, a tent has been set up for the summit. Moloc's Jaffa are meeting with Ishta and Teal'c. One of Moloc's Jaffa is speaking.

ARON: The ranks of rebel Jaffa are sizeable enough to win. The time to strike is now.

COR'AK: Aron is right. If we wait much longer it is only a matter of time before our numbers grow too large for Moloc not to discover. We risk losing everything.

ISHTA: Aron is right. We must strike now.

TEAL'C: Jaffa! Hear me. I know your hearts are prepared for battle, but I have come to ask for your patience. You have prepared well for the demise of Moloc, but only when all Jaffa rise up as one can the Goa'uld be defeated, and only then will all of our brothers and sisters truly be free.

ISHTA: This is the counsel you have come to offer?

(From outside the tent comes the sound of a bird taking flight in alarm. Teal'c's head snaps round.)

ISHTA: What is it?

(The sound of a staff weapon activating outside the tent can be heard.)

TEAL'C: DOWN!

(He throws himself to the ground, taking Ishta with him. Outside the tent, many Jaffa open fire with staff weapons, firing into the tent. Those Jaffa inside who are not quick enough are shot down. Teal'c, Ishta and Aron crawl out of the back of the tent and run for the trees.)


LATER. Teal'c, Ishta and Aron have made it back to the Gate and crawl to a rise nearby. Looking down at the Gate, they see that it is guarded by very many Jaffa.

TEAL'C: The Gate is well guarded.

ISHTA: We must return to the meeting tent. If anyone else survived, they will be tortured.

TEAL'C: Wait.

ARON: For what?

(The Gate activates. Moloc's Jaffa aim their staff weapons at it. Jack's voice comes over Teal'c's radio.)

O'NEILL (over radio): Teal'c? You there?

TEAL'C (into radio): Proceed, O'Neill.

O'NEILL: You know how I get when you don't call.

TEAL'C: Moloc's Jaffa ambushed the summit. The address of the planet must have fallen into the wrong hands. I am with Ishta and another rebel Jaffa named Aron. At present we are cut off from the Gate.

O'NEILL: How bad?

TEAL'C: Very.

O'NEILL: Back-up?

TEAL'C: It would be unwise at the moment. I am uncertain as to the extent of forces or if there are ships in orbit. I will need time to gather intel before deciding on a course of action.

O'NEILL: Alright. We'll check in in about an hour. And T?

TEAL'C: My head is down, O'Neill.

O'NEILL: Over.

(The Gate shuts down. Teal'c, Ishta and Aron cautiously move away from the Gate.)


FOREST. The three Jaffa are making their way back to the meeting tent. Teal'c seizes Ishta's arm and turns her round to face him.

TEAL'C: Someone from within your camp has betrayed you. That can be the only explanation for Moloc's presence here.

ISHTA: Teal'c, I do not have my tretonin. It was in my pack and in our haste I left it in the tent.

TEAL'C: I have enough for both of us. (He reaches into his vest pocket and takes out his injector, only to find that it is broken.)

ISHTA: It must have shattered when you fell to the ground.

ARON: We must move. A search patrol approaches.

TEAL'C: Indeed. (They move off.)


S.G.C. - BRIEFING ROOM. The room is full of people -- Daniel, Rya'c, Kar'yn and many of Ishta's warriors -- and all of them are shouting at each other. Jack and Bra'tac come in. Jack tries to quieten everybody down but can't be heard over the noise. Bra'tac steps forward.

BRA'TAC: SILENCE!

(Everybody immediately stops talking. Bra'tac looks at Jack.)

O'NEILL: Thank you. Now -- Daniel, what's going on here?

(Everybody starts talking at once. Jack points to Bra'tac.)

BRA'TAC: Silence!

(Everybody falls silent.)

O'NEILL: I said Daniel.

JACKSON: Well, as you can see, everyone's a little upset.

ISHTA'S LIEUTENANT: We will not abandon Ishta. We insist a rescue mission be devised immediately.

O'NEILL: We're devising.

BRA'TAC: Teal'c has said the Gate is well guarded.

RYA'C: Can we not acquire a ship and journey to this planet?

JACKSON: Even if we could, it would take at least a week to get there.

BRA'TAC: Please, return to your quarters.

KAR'YN: I cannot go until ...

BRA'TAC: Please! In time, your skills may be required, and you must be ready. Go!

(Reluctantly, Rya'c and the women leave the room.)


HOMEWORLD. Night. Teal'c, Ishta and Aron are hiding near the meeting tent, watching the guards outside.

ARON: There are only six.

TEAL'C: We do not know how many more may be hiding nearby, anticipating our approach.

(They hear a rebel Jaffa screaming as he is tortured.)

ISHTA: We must do something. (The screaming continues.) I cannot bear this. The Tau'ri have troops and weapons.

TEAL'C: We have not determined the size of Moloc's forces they would face. Many more lives than our own could be lost.

ISHTA: Then what are we to do?

TEAL'C: For the moment, nothing. (He moves away. Ishta and Aron reluctantly follow him.)


FOREST. As they move through the forest, Ishta braces herself against a tree momentarily, beginning to feel the effects of the lack of tretonin.

ARON: We cannot hide forever from their patrols.

TEAL'C: We will rest here.

(Ishta sits down wearily.)

ARON: They will not rest until we are found. If your plan is to wait until they give up and leave ...

TEAL'C: I need to gather the information that I can concerning the forces against us.

ARON: We're severely outnumbered. What more do you need to know?

ISHTA: Aron -- I need to speak to Teal'c privately.

ARON: You do not trust my loyalty.

ISHTA: I do. This is a private matter. Please.

(Aron moves away.)

TEAL'C: He could be the informant as easily as anyone, and using this opportunity to gather knowledge concerning the rebellion.

ISHTA: I know -- but he is right about one thing: we cannot wait to act. I am already growing weak.

TEAL'C: You need rest.

ISHTA (raising her head proudly): As do you.

TEAL'C (nodding in agreement): I will take first watch.

ISHTA: Teal'c -- I promised all Jaffa under Moloc's rule they will be free from his tyranny.

TEAL'C (putting his hand on her cheek): It was not a foolish promise. One day, we will all be free.

ISHTA (removing his hand): One day is not soon enough.

(They stare at each other for a moment, then Teal'c stands and walks away.)


FOREST. Day. Teal'c is sitting with his back against a tree, resting. Aron runs over and wakes him.

ARON: Where is Ishta?

TEAL'C: It was her turn to take wat... (He trails off as he realizes the implication of what Aron just asked, then springs to his feet and the two of them run off.)


LATER. Near the meeting tent, Teal'c and Aron run cautiously forward, then throw themselves to the ground to remain hidden. They see Ishta, held between two Jaffa, being bundled towards the tent. Teal'c takes out a pair of binoculars and looks through them. He sees Ishta looking back over her shoulder as if she knows that he is there. She is bundled inside the tent.


MEETING TENT. Ishta is taken inside and thrown to the ground. She stands up. In front of her, a man is standing with his back to her. He turns to face her, smiling, and his eyes flash. It's Moloc. Ishta stares in dread.


OUTSIDE THE TENT. Teal'c lowers his binoculars.

TEAL'C: Moloc is here.

(He and Aron carefully move away.)

ARON: We must act.

TEAL'C: I am aware.

ARON: Even if Ishta cannot be saved, we must take the opportunity to kill Moloc.

TEAL'C: That is not my goal.

ARON: It is mine, and that of all the Jaffa who have joined in rebellion against him.

TEAL'C: Without reinforcements, we will be swarmed by Moloc's forces.

ARON: I am willing to die for my cause.

TEAL'C: Then you will die for nothing if you do not succeed in killing Moloc first.

ARON: You are weak. Your mind is clouded with feelings for Ishta.

(He walks ahead of Teal'c, who draws his zat and shoots him.)

TEAL'C: You cannot be trusted.

(He takes Aron's staff weapon and heads off.)


S.G.C. - GATE ROOM. Bra'tac returns through the Gate. Daniel is waiting at the bottom of the ramp.

JACKSON: Ishta's been captured, and apparently Moloc is there in person. Now, we're gonna co-ordinate a missile attack on the Jaffa at the Gate to provide a distraction for Teal'c's rescue attempt.

(Behind him, technicians are wheeling a U.A.V. into the Gate Room.)

BRA'TAC: Moloc will certainly kill her before surrendering.

JACKSON: Well, Teal'c's more worried about what he's gonna do to her in the meantime.


HOMEWORLD - MEETING TENT. Ishta is held in the beam of a ribbon device which Moloc is using on her. She grunts in pain. Moloc deactivates the device and she falls to the floor.

MOLOC: It is not too late to repent for your sins. Grovel before your god and beg for my forgiveness. (Ishta forces herself up onto her knees.) Tell me of the other sinners who would betray me. How many would renounce the privilege of carrying the children of their god, like you? (He leans down to her.) Tell me why their souls may yet be saved.

(Two Jaffa haul Ishta back onto her feet.)

MOLOC: You cannot be Ishta of the Hak'tyl, wicked leader of the depraved! I sense nothing but weakness in you, or maybe that is what happens when you abandon the strength of the Goa'uld inside of you. All that is left is this burning desire to die at the hands of your great and powerful god. (He activates the ribbon device again. Ishta groans in pain.)


S.G.C. - JACK'S OFFICE. Jack, Sam, Daniel and Bra'tac are there.

CARTER: We're preparing a U.A.V. to drop tretonin for Teal'c.

BRA'TAC: He will need all his strength if he is to rescue Ishta from the clutches of Moloc.

CARTER: The U.A.V. will then circle back and paint the targets on the Gate.

BRA'TAC: Ishta did not exaggerate -- the rebel Jaffa on Moloc's worlds are indeed a mighty force. As we speak, they prepare for war against those still loyal to Moloc.

O'NEILL: You think they can win?

BRA'TAC: I do not know.

CARTER: Even if they do, it's possible another Goa'uld could simply take his place -- or, worse, come in and wipe them all out to prove this whole rebellion is a bad idea.

BRA'TAC: Indeed. That is something we asked them to consider, and yet, such reason is beyond them now.


GATE ROOM. Sergeant Siler comes up from underneath the U.A.V.

SILER: U.A.V. ready to launch, Colonel.

CARTER (in the Control Room): Thank you, Sergeant. (She turns to Walter.) Dial the Gate.

(Harriman starts the dialing process.)

HOMEWORLD. The Gate starts dialing in. Moloc's Jaffa aim their staff weapons.

S.G.C. - GATE ROOM. The Gate kawhooshes.

CARTER: Launching U.A.V. in three, two, one.

(The U.A.V. launches and flies into the Gate.)

HOMEWORLD. The U.A.V. flies out of the Gate and heads off.

FOREST. Teal'c looks up as the U.A.V. flies over.

S.G.C. - CONTROL ROOM.

CARTER: Receiving Teal'c's radio signal.

HOMEWORLD. Jaffa out in the forest fire at the U.A.V. One of the staff blasts hits it.

S.G.C. - CONTROL ROOM.

CARTER: The U.A.V.'s been hit.


HOMEWORLD - FOREST. Teal'c sees smoke rising from the downed U.A.V. nearby.

CARTER (over radio): Teal'c, do you copy?

TEAL'C (into radio): Proceed.

CARTER: The U.A.V. should be half a click south-west of your location.

TEAL'C: I am on my way.

CARTER: Be careful, Teal'c. We'll dial back in thirty minutes.

(In the Gate Room, the Gate shuts down. In the forest, Teal'c heads towards the U.A.V.)


S.G.C. - CONTROL ROOM.

BRA'TAC: Can we not still send the missiles through?

CARTER: Without a laser-painted target, they'd just fly out their fuel and crash.


HOMEWORLD. Teal'c reaches the U.A.V., which is lying broken into pieces at the top of a hill. Some of it is burning. He goes to the main part of the machine and reaches down to open a panel on the top but snatches his hand back with a cry of pain from the heat of the metal. He reaches down again and manages to get the panel open and pulls out a tretonin injector. He is just about to inject himself when he stops at the sound of activating staff weapons and shouts from Jaffa approaching behind him. One of them addresses him.

KA'LEL: Jaffa, shel'na kree! Kree nok, Jaffa!

(Covertly, Teal'c slips the tretonin injector into his vest pocket before rising to turn and face the Jaffa.)

TEAL'C: Shal'kek nem'ron. If you know who I am, brothers, you know that there is no need to sacrifice your lives for a false god.

(Ka'lel walks close to him, looks him in the face for a moment, then jams his staff weapon hard into Teal'c's abdomen. Teal'c crumples to the ground.)

KA'LEL: Ri'nok, shol'vah.

(Behind them, Aron appears and grabs one of the Jaffa from behind. He swings the man around and uses his staff weapon to fire at one of the other Jaffa, then turns his man and shoots another Jaffa. Teal'c grabs Ka'lel's staff weapon and shoots him down. Another Jaffa fires directly at him but Teal'c grabs a piece of the U.A.V. and holds it up in front of him to absorb the blast, then shoots the Jaffa who Aron is holding. Another Jaffa runs towards Teal'c but he kicks him down. Aron downs another Jaffa with the butt of his staff weapon. He and Teal'c finish off the rest of the Jaffa. Teal'c braces himself on his staff weapon, exhausted, then falls to his knees. He takes out the tretonin injector from his vest pocket and injects himself as Aron approaches.)

ARON: It would have been easier had you left me with a weapon.

(Teal'c, groaning slightly, painfully gets to his feet, then reaches out to grasp Aron's arm.)

TEAL'C: My thanks.

ARON: Is there anything else I can do to prove my loyalty?

(Teal'c looks down at the U.A.V., then back up to Aron.)

TEAL'C: Indeed.


MEETING TENT. Ishta, barely conscious, is lying on the floor. She turns her head and looks at her pack lying nearby. The tretonin injector is sticking up of the pack and is almost within her reach. Moloc notices what she is looking at, walks over and takes the injector out of the pack.

MOLOC: Is this what you want? Evil serum to poison you further? Or will it give you strength enough to last a little longer? Then take it. (He drops it onto the floor near her hand.) Take it so that you may have more precious time with your god.

(Moloc's First Prime, Cha'ra, and another Jaffa enter the tent.)

CHA'RA: My Lord. Word comes from Gor'mek. An uprising has begun. An army of two thousand is marching on your temple. They control a garrison of gliders and several Al'kesh.

MOLOC: As I have foreseen. (Unseen by his Jaffa, he swallows nervously.)

CHA'RA: Your fleet of Ha'tak have gathered themselves in orbit. They await your command to crush this insolence.

MOLOC (looking down at Ishta): I am done with this one. Trivial as it may seem, this little distraction has given me a few moments of pleasure. Use her to capture the shol'vah, Teal'c. Then bring him to me.

CHA'RA: Yes, my Lord. (He bows as Moloc leaves the tent.)

(Unnoticed on the floor, Ishta picks up the tretonin injector.)


HOMEWORLD - STARGATE. Teal'c and Aron are hidden nearby, out of sight of the troops.

TEAL'C: When the Gate opens again, aim this at your target. (He holds up a laser sight which he has taken from the U.A.V.) The missiles will come through and strike where you aim. (He hands the sight to Aron.)

ARON: You're certain your strength is sufficiently returned? This time I will not be there to come to your rescue.

TEAL'C: I assure you, this time it will not be necessary. (He heads off.)


LATER. Moloc approaches the Stargate.

MOLOC: Open the Chappa'ai.

(A Jaffa starts to dial but has only dialed three symbols when the Gate starts to dial in and then kawhooshes.)

MOLOC: Jaffa! Krel'nok!

(The Jaffa aim their staff weapons at the Gate.)


S.G.C. - CONTROL ROOM. The blast doors are closing over the windows.

CARTER (into radio): Teal'c, this is Carter, do you read?

TEAL'C: Colonel Carter, I am ready and in position.

CARTER: So we're on?

TEAL'C: Indeed.

(Sam pushes a button and two missiles are lowered from the ceiling into position facing the Gate.)


HOMEWORLD - MEETING TENT. Teal'c shoots down two Jaffa standing outside the tent. He starts to run towards the tent, holding two staff weapons in front of him which he has lashed together, facing in opposite directions. As Jaffa run towards him from either side, he shoots left and right, taking each one of them down. Once all the Jaffa have been taken out, he throws the double staff weapon to the ground.


HOMEWORLD - STARGATE. The missiles fly out of the Gate one after the other and soar up into the sky. Moloc and his Jaffa turn to watch them.


MEETING TENT. Teal'c walks into the tent, aiming his zat. Facing him is Cha'ra, holding Ishta in front of him with a knife to her throat.

CHA'RA: She is weak to the point of death. Zatting us both even once will kill her. Drop your weapon.


HOMEWORLD - STARGATE. The missiles curve around and cross over each other, their contrails making a heart shape in the sky.

MOLOC: Shoot them down.

(Jaffa aim staff cannons and staff weapons at the missiles and start firing. Up on the hillside, Aron aims the laser sight. Moloc looks down and sees a red dot in the middle of his chest. He tries to flick it away with his hand but then realizes that the red dot is now on the back of his hand. He looks up at the approaching missiles in dread.)


MEETING TENT.

CHA'RA: Drop it now!

(In the distance, there is a huge double explosion.)

TEAL'C: That is the sound of your false god dying.

CHA'RA: Gods cannot be killed.

ISHTA: Teal'c.

CHA'RA: Not another word.

ISHTA: Shoot.

(Teal'c fires his zat at the pair of them and they crumple to their knees. Teal'c runs forward and backhands Cha'ra to the floor, then takes out a tretonin injector from his vest pocket.)

ISHTA: There is no need. I have taken mine. Is it true that Moloc is dead?

TEAL'C: If you have the strength, we can see for ourselves.

(Ishta gasps in relief, then leans against Teal'c's shoulder, exhausted.)

ISHTA: In a moment.

(Teal'c holds her close.)


S.G.C. - GATE ROOM. S.G.C. personnel are lined up facing the Gate. Jack and Sam are in their dress blues; Daniel is wearing a suit. Teal'c is wearing a Jaffa robe. At the bottom of the ramp, Bra'tac is conducting Rya'c's and Kar'yn's marriage ceremony. Ishta's Jaffa stand either side of the ramp.

BRA'TAC: Kar'yn, speak of your love and devotion to Rya'c.

KAR'YN (already wearing her circlet): Rya'c, your heart is pure and your spirit strong. You give me strength, and joy, and I will stand by your side always.

BRA'TAC: Rya'c.

RYA'C: Kar'yn (he takes her hands), you are as beautiful as the sun. My love for you is like the morning rays at dawn of an endless day.

(Teal'c looks across to Ishta. She gazes back at him.)

BRA'TAC: The rite is complete. May you love and fight like warriors ... just not with each other.

(Laughter. Everyone applauds. Rya'c and Kar'yn move around the table and kiss. Teal'c and Ishta are still gazing at each other.)


LATER. Teal'c and Rya'c are walking down a corridor.

RYA'C: The legend speaks of a place near where the mountains meets the sea, of hidden pools beneath majestic waterfalls.

TEAL'C: It is no legend. I have seen it with my own eyes. You have chosen the location for your shim'owa very well.

RYA'C: Master Bra'tac said this is where you took my mother.

TEAL'C (smiling): Indeed. Rya'c. (Rya'c turns and faces him.) I can think of no better mate for you than Kar'yn, and I am certain your mother would have felt the same.

RYA'C: Thank you. (He puts his hand on Teal'c's shoulder. Teal'c reciprocates, then they hug.)

TEAL'C (once they have broken the embrace): Before your departure, there is a matter that bears discussion.

RYA'C: Father, I am aware of the ways between a man and a woman.

TEAL'C: Good. Then you are prepared for the Rite of Or'nok.

(Rya'c looks horrified.)

RYA'C: Surely it is not still expected?

TEAL'C (looking very serious): On the first eve of shim'owa. My advice is that the knife be as sharp as possible.

RYA'C (staring at him in dread): Perhaps Kar'yn is right. Not all of the old traditions are worth holding on to.

(Teal'c looks at his son seriously for a moment, then his face breaks into a grin.)

TEAL'C: Indeed.

(They start to walk down the corridor again.)

RYA'C: What of you and Ishta?

TEAL'C: What of us?

RYA'C: Well, your relationship would be much easier if you'd both admit you are in love. For us all.

TEAL'C: Perhaps one day -- when I am as wise as you are.

(They enter the Gate Room.)


GATE ROOM. Ishta's Jaffa are going through the Gate. Kar'yn and Ishta are standing at the bottom of the ramp with Jack.

ISHTA (to Jack): Once again we owe you our thanks -- for your hospitality, and for helping us find yet another new homeworld where the children of the Hak'tyl may be safe.

O'NEILL: Think nothing of it. You sure you got everything? Didn't forget any ... kids or ... horses?

(Ishta smiles, then looks at Teal'c, who has joined them.)

ISHTA: May I speak with Teal'c alone?

O'NEILL (smiling): Sure. It was good to see you again. (He walks away.)

(Rya'c has now joined Kar'yn, and reaches out his hand to Teal'c.)

RYA'C: I will see you soon, Father.

(Teal'c walks towards him, and puts his arms around both his son and his daughter-in-law and hugs them.)

KAR'YN (as Teal'c breaks the hug): Yes ... Father.

TEAL'C: Be well.

(Rya'c and Kar'yn head up the ramp and go through the Gate.)

ISHTA (to Teal'c): I did not wish to spoil the days of shim'owa for Rya'c and Kar'yn.

TEAL'C: What have you discovered?

ISHTA: As you predicted, another Goa'uld has claimed the domain of Moloc.

TEAL'C: Baal.

ISHTA: Yes. (Teal'c holds out his hand to her.) Do not wait too long to visit. (She walks towards him.) We have a war to plan ... among other things.

(They kiss briefly, then, holding his hand a little longer, Ishta finally releases him and walks up the ramp to where her two lieutenants are waiting for her at the top. She turns and bows to Teal'c, as do the other women. He returns the bow, then Ishta turns and she and her colleagues go through the Gate.)