A big thank you to Poss and Lyn for their wonderful Betas,
their inspired suggestions and treasured support

The Muse

by Nefret

Running; feet pounding into the floor, breath catching in my throat; senses fully attuned to the surroundings, nostrils catching the scent of jasmine in the warm air, eyes squinting against the glare of bright moonlight streaming into the hallway from tall stained glass windows. Another door; stop, weapon ready, shoulder pushes as hand releases the catch, in … sweep left to right - windows, stored boxes, no other door, clear … empty … back up, out, on to the next. All around me the sounds of others repeating my movements, banging of doors, shouts of "clear" echoing off the marble walls; searching, searching, and not finding…

God, you have to be here, there's nowhere else, this has to be the place; there's no more time to waste, so much already wasted… You've been gone too long already, every minute more the threat grows, we could lose more and more of you… till there's nothing left to reclaim… NO. Not going to think that, not going to happen. I will find you, and you'll be YOU… That beautiful mind will be intact and giving me all kinds of hell…

No more doors here, sweep up the stairs, the last landing, more fucking marble, only one door, follow the red dot… You WILL be here. Suck in a breath, crank the handle, nudge the door and I'm in…

The gate room was buzzing with talk as the three teams prepared to depart. O'Neill, impatiently waiting for half his team to show up, cast an eye over the hubbub. In addition to the members of SG9 and SG3, General Hammond and Senator Murphy were geared up and ready for this outing - well, geared up in the sense that the FRED was loaded down with clothing bags, personal gear and briefcases, instead of the usual scientific and survival gear.

This mission was the successful culmination of months of negotiations conducted first by SG3 and then SG9 with the people of the planet P2X 798, the Ehren. A population on a technological par with Earth, they had long ago been abandoned by the minor Goa'uld who had transplanted their ancestors from the ancient Mediterranean region. Overlooked as other System Lords scrambled for power and planets, they had developed along many similar lines to that of Earth, and had greeted the teams from Earth with delight and wonder. When informed about the present state of interstellar politics they had readily agreed to stand by their distant cousins and offered their support in the battle against the Goa'uld. Hence today; the final formal signing of a treaty of mutual support - both in terms of defence and technology - between the people of the planets Ehren and Earth. After the last treaty-signing debacle, Hammond had been only too glad to accept the offer to conduct the ceremony on Ehren. Senator Murphy was in attendance as representative of the President, whose advisors just could not bring themselves to approve of an off world visit, and he was bouncing around the gate room like an excited ten year old.

Jack unsuccessfully tried to dodge the third glare from Hammond in as many minutes. Sighing, he sought out his 2IC. "Carter, where the hell are they?"

"Sir, they signed in five minutes ago. They should be here soon." Sam excused herself from Major Kovachek and moved back towards Jack. A clatter of footsteps announced the arrival of the final two members of the mission - Daniel Jackson hurried in juggling suit bags, kit bag, and laptop, looking windblown and breathless; Teal'c followed him, suit bag draped over one arm, kitbag in the other and looking completely unperturbed.

"General Hammond, we apologise for our tardiness," Teal'c made a graceful half bow to his commander and the Senator. "We were delayed leaving Denver."

"That's alright, son. We have a couple of minutes left," Hammond replied.

Jack followed Daniel to the FRED, watching as he loaded their gear on board. "Well, it's about time you guys showed up. Where've you been?"

"Hey, Jack. Er, well, we both had some things to pick up in Denver, so we decided to make a weekend of it."

"Oh?" Jack tried not to sound like a kid whose friends hadn't asked him go to the park with them. "What kind of things?"

"Um, clothes, actually. And after last week we both felt the need to get out and act like normal human beings for a bit."

"Some kind of archaeologist/jaffa bonding thing?"

"No, more like a 'we got thrown out of a moving airplane with a parachute and survived to tell the tale' kind of thing. Hi, Sam."

"Ahh!" Okay, so maybe Jack was glad he hadn't been around for that one.

Sam joined them, smiling in appreciation at Daniel's appearance. "Daniel, you're looking very dapper today."

"He's not the only one." Jack gazed in surprise at Teal'c as he too joined them by the ramp.

Sam turned and grinned at Teal'c. Dress blues were the order of the day for the military members of the teams, and the civilians were dressed up accordingly. Daniel was wearing his best suit, with a soft yellow tie and cream silk shirt. He looked wonderful - the look of reserved introspection that had been so evident lately no longer with him. And Teal'c... Teal'c looked amazing. Decked out in dark grey robes, made of beautiful smooth wool, trimmed with matching silk edging. He had the air of one who was supremely happy with his place in the world.

"Guys, you look gorgeous! Where did you get the robes, Teal'c?"

"I mentioned to Daniel Jackson how uncomfortable I found Tau'ri formal clothes. He kindly introduced me to a clothier who was willing to produce these for me."

"Daniel? A tailor? "

"Oh, Helen isn't a tailor. She's a costumier - specialises in reproduction costumes for museums. She's based in Denver now. She does a bit of private tailoring on the side."

"Well, I think you both look lovely." Sam linked arms with her two handsome friends and moved to the side of the ramp as the gate came alive, chevrons lighting up one by one, connecting Earth to the stars. The wormhole belched into life, its watery glow bathing the assembled teams in shimmering blue reflection.

"Ehren diplomatic party, you have a go." Walter's voice rang out from the control room.

Hammond strode up the ramp, relishing the surge of excitement at being able to set foot on another planet again. This day had been a long time coming; the signing of a treaty that would finally bring the SGC, the USA and the people of Earth a strong and reliable ally. An ally prepared to stand side by side with them in their fight against the Goa'uld. An ally prepared to equally share its knowledge, science, medicine and culture. An ally that had no hidden agenda, no secret self-serving purpose.

SG9 and SG3 had put in a lot of hard work on this mission and were fully deserving of the commendations they were to receive on their return. As was Major Davis, whom he suspected had spent more time in airplanes than on the ground in the last few months, as he handled the political end of not only this treaty but also the ill-fated Tok'ra signing. Well, no such problems would dog these proceedings, he thought. Just one of the reasons for insisting on SG1's presence - apart from being the SGC's premier team and foremost experts on first contacts and new civilizations - they needed this trip as a morale booster. Their last few missions had been a trying combination of spectacular successes and dismal failures, and he felt they deserved to share in the success of the contact with the Ehren.

Exhaling, Hammond closed his eyes and stepped into the cold embrace of the wormhole…and out into paradise.

Ah yes, another reason for bringing SG1's stressed members - this part of the planet was a tropical paradise. The Stargate sat on the crest of a small foothill crouched at the base of towering volcanic mountains, high enough to give a commanding view of the city and sheltered bay below. The city of Sorenia lay spread out before them, a beautiful assemblage of housing, official buildings and bustling commercial businesses stretched around the coastline of a wide sheltered bay. Pristine white beaches, warm breezes laden with a myriad of scents and pollens, and enthusiastic greenery made this one of the most pleasant worlds ever contacted. A point surely not to be missed by a certain colonel… right…

about…

"Oh, see! Now this is just TYPICAL!!"

… now.

Biting down a grin Hammond fixed O'Neill with a stern glance. "Is there a problem, Colonel?"

"Well, YEAH!! SG1 is the lead team in this outfit. We're the first, the best, the ones everyone else come to; to help them out, translate this, figure out that, pull their butts out of the fire - and what do WE get???"

"Jack…."

"WE get every Ice World, Desert World, Welcome to HELL World there is."

"Colonel…"

"And the JARHEADS get PARADISE???"

"Don't make me come over there."

"I'm just sayin'."

His hidden grin now blossoming into a chuckle Hammond escorted the Senator towards the approaching Ehren welcoming party.

"Hey, Teal'c! With all that water they must get some nice fishing… I wonder…

T?

Where'd he go?"

The signing passed without a hitch, the solemn ceremony witnessed by most of the populace of the city lining the tiers of an enormous amphitheatre. Afterwards, the Earth representatives were treated to guided tours through Sorenia's museums, galleries and university. To be accurate, most of the SGC personnel were; Jack O'Neill was last seen heading for a surf beach, many enthusiastic Ehren and several fishing poles in tow.

Daniel and Teal'c joined Dr. Llewellyn, SG3's anthropologist, and a group of polite and proud Ehren on a tour of the main museum in Sorenia. Room after room in the stately, refined building showcased the beautifully diverse collection of art, historical artefacts and industrial inventions.

"Daniel, you're going to love this city". Kate Llewellyn flung out an all-encompassing hand as they entered a long hall filled with tiny, intricate machines. "Everything, from the smallest, most basic item of daily use like drinking mugs to high powered medical instruments is designed with the fullest attention given not just to its functionality but also to its aesthetic appeal".

Daniel looked up from his attempt to guess the purpose of a tiny mechanical machine that was happily spinning and burping to itself. "Even today, when the society is clearly very technologically advanced?"

"Especially now. There seems to be a consensus of opinion that the beauty of an object should not be lost to the practicalities of its use. The artistic merit of a building, home, piece of equipment, even transport is considered paramount in the design."

Daniel shared a rueful smile with his colleague. "Pity that philosophy didn't take hold on Earth."

"Do the artificers of the home-world no longer craft their wares to be pleasing to the eye?"

Daniel and Teal'c turned to greet the speaker. A tall woman moved slowly towards them, her many layers of clothing floating about her body in filmy drifts, shading from pale green at her shoulders to deep earthy tones at her ankles. Ankles that were solidly encased in a pair of thick black Dr. Martens. It seemed Kate's love of the footwear had been shared with her new friend. Elegant full fleshed arms were folded in front of her, raven black hair streaked with electric blue framed a sweet, almost pixie shaped face. Challenging green eyes gazed at her visitors, but her smile was genuine and welcoming.

Kate stepped forward to do the introductions. "Teal'c, Daniel, I'd like to introduce Director Honorine Spring, curator of the museum and leading authority on all matters artistic in Sorenia. Honorine, this is Master Teal'c and Doctor Daniel Jackson, both members of SG1." She took a breath and quickly added, "Doctor Jackson opened the Stargate on Earth for us, Honorine. And Master Teal'c has been instrumental in assisting us with our battle against the Goa'uld. They are both very valuable members of the SGC." She flashed a proud grin at the two, knowing they did not seek nor often receive outside acknowledgement of their achievements.

Daniel shot a later-for-you look at Kate and smiled a greeting at Honorine. "Hello."

Teal'c bowed his head and said, "It is a pleasure to meet you, Director".

"A pleasure shared is a pleasure doubled, Master Teal'c." Honorine seemed to be assessing them both, and apparently liking what she saw, repeated her first question. "Do the artificers of the home-world no longer craft their wares to be pleasing to the eye?"

"Well, we do of course still have many, many artists who produce their work in many different media, but the size and demands of our populations unfortunately dictate that many things, particularly buildings are built primarily with functionality in mind." Daniel smiled as he replied, his right hand waving in the air. "Artistic value often comes as an afterthought in many cases. Which is not to say that everything built on Earth is unattractive. We just don't have the talent for melding the two philosophies as effectively as here on Ehren."

"Ah, perhaps this is because the Muses chose to join us in our exile, rather than stay on Earth with the unbelievers when our god brought us to Ehren," Honorine offered.

Teal'c looked away from another whizzing, singing machine that had captured his attention. "The Muses?"

Honorine smiled. "It is our belief that when our god placed us here the Muses settled with us, and continue to bless and inspire us in all paths of life, to this day. Everything we do, everything we create is inspired by them and done in their honor. They have kept the beauty of life itself with us, and all on Ehren hold them in the highest regard."

Daniel looked cautiously at the tall gangly lady. "Do the people of Ehren worship the Muses as gods?"

Honorine let out a happy hoot of laughter. "No, no, dear Doctor. Don't concern yourself that the Goa'uld have insinuated themselves here. The Muses are merely honoured for their inspiration in our lives. They never were gods to us. The One God who brought our ancestors to this planet has been gone from us for millennia now."

"Honorine, perhaps Daniel and Teal'c would like to see The Muses Sanctuary?" Kate suggested.

"A wonderful idea. But, first I would like to show you the museum's most unique exhibit."

Leading the way in a swirl of green gauze Honorine ushered her guests into the wing housing contemporary art, proudly bringing them to a halt before a wide open space at the far end of the hall. Before them, perched on a pedestal, bathed in rays of late afternoon sunshine beaming through the stained glass roof, sat a curious amalgamation of crystal spheres; a little over two feet in diameter, the object was mostly transparent, with brilliant colours refracted within the crystalline structures. Sensing there was more to the exhibit than this static display, Teal'c and Daniel waited politely.

Honorine stepped up beside the pedestal and addressed them. "This is one of, if not the most unique artwork ever constructed. The artist's identity is a closely guarded secret - he, or she, does not seek recognition at all. The artist donated the Delphot to the museum purely for the satisfaction of seeing it used by the people. It is so popular there are queues everyday. We would be honoured if you wish to try it yourselves."

Teal'c paced curiously around the object. "What exactly does this device achieve?"

"Oh, I would not want to spoil the surprise - and anyway the result is different for each person. It is completely safe." She smiled at the three, wanting so much to share this special experience with the off-worlders. "Please…?"

"Alright, well, I'm game, I guess." Daniel tentatively stretched out his right hand to hover over the crystals. "Um, where do I…"

"Place your hand anywhere on the crystals." The rest of their escort arranged themselves in a semicircle around the exhibit - smiles of expectation lighting their faces.

Unconsciously holding his breath, Daniel dropped his hand onto the surface. For a moment nothing happened, then as the startling cold of the crystals penetrated his senses, he became aware of a harmonic, vibrating sound, so low as to be almost at the edge of hearing. Steadily the sound increased, becoming a clear peal of chimes, rising in a complicated, beautiful cadence. As the chiming rose, Daniel raised his head to gaze up toward the skylights, and his jaw dropped in astonishment. With shocking suddenness, a stream of rose pink coloured light shot up from the top of the crystal exhibit, streaking straight up to the roof. Upon contact with the glass roof the colour seemed to explode, shattering into thousands of little pink puffy clouds that proceeded to drift around the room, slowing in speed until they merely hovered, bumping gently into one another.

A burst of cheers and applause from the assembled Ehren brought Daniel out of his daze and he withdrew his hand, stepping back from the pedestal. At the loss of contact with his hand the chiming began to fade, the puffy pink clouds also fading into nothingness.

"This is amazing. What makes it do that? Are the patterns random or does the machine formulate them somehow? Teal'c, Kate you have to try it. We'll have to show the others. Jack and Sam would love it. It'll drive Sam crazy…." Grinning, Daniel stepped over to Honorine as Teal'c took his place at the pedestal. Still caught up in the moment he did not pay much attention to the slight cold stinging of his right hand.

As Teal'c made contact, a deep booming BONG rang out and the entire room was flooded with swirling, deep ruby red light. Gasps of appreciation and more applause rose from the audience, Teal'c himself favoured the display with a smile. The patterns of light shifted and raced about the room, the steady deep tone a constant background noise until he withdrew his hand. "A most impressive device," he said, wishing briefly that he could share such a wonder with his son. He stepped aside to make room for Kate. Dr. Llewellyn straightened her skirt and confidently slapped her hand down on the top of the crystal object. The object responded with a sing-song chime that rose in volume to accompany a burst of yellow-orange light that rose to the roof, and coalesced into a fiery sunset, complete with rays of sunlight streaking through a cloudy sky, an incandescent setting sun sinking into the embrace of a mountain range and a pale blue sky - a noticeably Earth sky.

As others stepped up to activate the machine the SGC personnel moved back and followed the curator from the room. Daniel rubbed his hand along his thigh, the cold stinging sensation now dissipating. Turning to Teal'c and Kate he asked, "Does your hand feel funny after touching that thing?"

Both shook their heads. Honorine smiled at Daniel and explained, "Some people have found the Delphot seems to leech the warmth from their hands. I can assure you it is a temporary effect, and will cause no harm."

"Oh. Okay." Daniel rubbed his hand again and tried to dispel the vague feeling of unease that had settled over him. "So how come the Delphot produced nice vibrant patterns for Kate and Teal'c and I got puffy pink clouds?"

"No one really knows how the apparatus works, however some have theorized that it somehow connects with the very essence of the person in contact with it, and the result produced is directly influenced by that person's true nature," the Director replied.

Daniel felt his eyebrows climb in surprise. "Oh, wow. That's… creepy, I think. Hey, Teal'c. What do you think would happen if you let Junior have a go?"

Teal'c felt a cold shudder creep up his spine and over his scalp. Contemplatively he replied, "Very bad art, Daniel Jackson. Very Bad Art."

Accompanied by the sounds of laughter from Daniel and Kate, Honorine led them through the maze of the museum and out along a broad tree lined avenue. A short trip across soft yellow-green grass, and they passed into a shady fern filled gully. At the centre of the gully, nestled in amongst a riot of colourful plants and trailing vines stood a circle of nine statues. All were female, in varying poses. A small number of people moved about the area, some laying offerings at the feet of their particular Muse. Daniel felt an immediate sense of peaceful seclusion. Honorine stood back and allowed Kate to introduce the Muses to Daniel and Teal'c.

"I couldn't believe it when we first came here," she said. "Straight out of ancient Greek mythology. Even the names have stayed the same..." She motioned to the closest statue, a thoughtful image posed under a shading tree, huge bound books scattered at her feet, "...Calliope."

"Beautiful voice," Daniel translated for Teal'c. "She was the intellectual Muse, the inspiration for epic poetry and philosophy. Wow, these are just beautiful." His gaze wondered on to the next statue. "Erato, the Muse of the lyric; and Urania, the Muse of astronomy, or scientific wisdom." He gestured at the three statues, which were grouped somewhat closer together than the others. "These were the original three Muses. And then there's Terpsichore, the Muse of dance; Melpomene, the Muse of tragedy; and beautiful Clio, the Muse of history." He shared a grin with Kate. "It's always nice to have a Muse of your own." Moving through the heady fragrance of the gardens he inspected the final three. "Thalia, the Muse of comedy; Euterpe, the Muse of music; and sweet little Polyhymnia, Muse of sacred song."

Daniel stepped back to stand in front of the statue of Clio. The beautifully carved stone seemed almost to be real, and he was reminded of another, smaller statue of this particular Muse. It had been a birthday gift to him from Sarah, years ago when they were living together in Chicago. He offered a sad smile to Clio, thoughts of happier times and the fate of his lost friend sweeping through his mind. Caught up in the beauty and peace of the place, Daniel turned and nodded to Honorine. "Thank you for sharing this special place with us. It truly is beautiful."

Honorine smiled at him. "It is always a joy to share that which one loves with others who hold the same appreciation. Unfortunately, I believe we must return to the citadel now. The banquet will be due to start soon."

Daniel moved to follow the others, but at the beginning of the pathway he paused. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out his notebook, and quickly scribbled down a few lines.

Ever aware of his teammate's movements, Teal'c also paused, and watched as Daniel returned to the feet of the statue of Clio. Taking a moment to gaze up into the sweet face, her sceptical eyes seemed to return his regard. In her hands she held the laurel wreath of victors, and the golden trumpet through which history is proclaimed. Daniel smiled at her, then ducked his head, swiftly bent down and placed his note under a small rock at her feet. Returning to Teal'c he crooked a little self deprecating smile, and turned to follow the rest of their party. Nodding in silent understanding, Teal'c followed in his friend's footsteps.

Evening fell. Soft mid-summer breezes flowed inland from the sea, bringing the scent of salt and freshness and peace to the crowds gathered on the rooftop of the citadel - a magnificent marble building rising above the rest of the city, the seat of government for the Ehren people. Dinner having been consumed in huge quantities, a ball was now in full swing under the twinkling stars. Many of the Ehren guests vied for the opportunity to dance or converse with their new off-world allies. Senator Murphy was buried deep in conversation with a good dozen eager Ehren diplomats, whilst General Hammond and Major Kovachek were dividing their energies between whirling around the dance floor and striking up new conversations. The three SGC teams were equally enthusiastic in getting to know their hosts and the whole rooftop area rang to the sounds of talk and music and laughter. Breathless, Daniel took his leave of his dance partner and stepped away from the bright lights, still smiling at the sight of Sam and Teal'c elegantly flowing around the dance floor.

Everyone, it seemed was in the highest of spirits. Almost everyone.

Look at them.

Fawning sycophants, believing their grovelling appreciation keeps me alive, so desperate to appease me they blind themselves; fail to see I stopped living years ago, cannot see that when they buried my love, my soul, they buried me just as surely. They appreciate only what has passed; an artwork once created is a dead thing, no longer of consequence. An Artist who cannot create is no more alive than the dried flakes of paint on a brush.

I died long ago - needing only to be hidden in the embrace of Mother Earth - oh, but even this is a lie; these strangers amongst us, messengers from another world - tell us we spawned not on this land of our ancestors, but a blue world that is only a point of light in the Mother's crown.

Huh, as if it matters…. They are just as blind, as dead to me as I to them….

But what… what is THIS? This creature that floats into my vision. Oh, ethereal, graceful, fey charidan of the night. His smile brings holy Sun's warm rays to rest on my cold heart. Blue eyes give summer's light to the death darkness of my soul.

In the interminable space between one second and the next, I take a breath and begin to live again.

How can these shuttered fools about me fail to see my resurrection?

This walking corpse lives once more…

Daniel slid out through the open doors onto the balcony, letting the noise and heat of the party be washed away by the salty air and gentle rhythmic pounding of the waves. Moving to a darkened corner of the balcony he leant on the railing and tried to clear his mind. A feeling of melancholy was slowly eroding the upbeat atmosphere of the day. He didn't wish to spoil the night for the others, and knew from experience that a little time on his own would perhaps snap him out of it.

"Daniel?"

"Hey, Sam."

She came toward him tentatively, not wishing to intrude on his peace if she was not wanted. Suddenly not wanting to be alone with his thoughts, he smiled and she stood next to him, propping her arms on the railing.

"Mmmm, it's lovely out here."

They stood together for a while in silence, sharing the peaceful scented evening. Above, a fat, yellow full moon cast an ethereal light over them. The music and chatter of the party muted behind them. A low sigh escaped Daniel's lips. Wordlessly, Sam slid closer, leaning her shoulder against her friend's.

"I tried to tell Sha're about the sea. It's hard to convey the smells and sound and atmosphere of so much water to someone who's never seen it". Daniel's voice was soft, floating on the moonlit breeze like the scent of flowers. "It's odd, moments like this… I miss her so much. I just wish I could take her hand and go for a stroll on the sand, watch her play in the water… hear her laugh again… All those little moments we won't get to share." Grief speared sharply through his chest, stealing his voice and leaving only emptiness.

Sam thought back to the vibrant, loving woman she had met only once. Despite the difference in their backgrounds, Sha're and Daniel had seemed perfectly suited to each other. In her experience such a marriage was rare, whatever side of the universe you lived on.

"I wish I'd known her better," she said.

Daniel sucked in a deep breath and smiled. "Yes, I think you would have been good friends. She was always so interested in anything new to her. All the discoveries we've made, the places we've been, and the people we've met. She would have soaked up the stories like a sponge. Although she probably would have insisted on coming with us in the first place."

Sam smiled at the thought of the colonel's face on being told his little team would include not only an alien, a civilian, a female astrophysicist, but also the civilian's wife. Still, having another woman around would have made some of the quieter missions a bit more interesting.

"Sha'uri."

Sam looked up at him curiously. Daniel said the word gently, reverently. His breath sighing out the second syllable. "Sha'uri."

His gaze fixed on the glowing trail of moonlight on the sea, he murmured, "It was her maiden name. The same as her mother's. When we married she changed the suffix to 're, in honour of our victory over Ra. Re was the true name of the ancient Egyptian sun god, and in our wedding vows I paid him deference for giving me a part of the sun in Sha're's smile. She was so proud..."

"Of?"

"Of being free, being married. Married to me… of me, I guess."

Daniel looked out at the gently hissing surf, tumbling water glinting like diamonds in the moonlight. The two friends stood silently together for a long time, the hubbub of the reception muted under the relentless song of the sea.

When Daniel spoke again, Sam had to lean forward to catch the soft words.

"I've often thought that if we'd had a child…. None of this would have happened. I wouldn't have spent so much time in the cartouche room, wouldn't have opened the gate, would have been home… in Nagada with my wife… my child… my family…"

Sam slid her arm around his waist in silent sympathy. Daniel so rarely opened up about his lost wife and home, she did not want to spoil the moment with empty platitudes. Daniel put his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close to him; accepting her silent support.

"But then, I wouldn't have met you, or Teal'c, or had the pleasure of Jack's company again, so…"

"So, every cloud has a darker lining?"

His soft snuff of laughter brought a smile to Sam's face.

"Carter! THERE you are. I've been looking all over." Jack launched himself out onto the balcony, a wash of noise and light following him. He frowned, catching a quick glimpse of Daniel's face before his friend turned to face the sea again. "What's up?"

"Nothing, sir. Just getting some peace and quiet."

"Oh. 'Kay. Carter. Come dance with me? Griff is making like Fred Astaire in there. We have to hold our end up a bit." Despite his complaints at being forced into formal wear, Jack really did cut a handsome figure in his tux.

"Oh, um. Sure, sir. Be delighted." Sam leaned toward Daniel and whispered, "Should have brought my combat boots."

Jack stepped aside to let Sam pass. "Daniel, you okay?"

Daniel turned around again, favouring his friend with a small smile. "I'm fine Jack. The noise was getting to me a bit. I think I'll just stay out here for a while."

"Well, you need anything, just yell. Okay?"

"Thanks, Jack."

"See ya."

"Oh, Jack?"

"Yeah?"

"Don't stand on Sam's feet."

"Very funny."

Content to stay in the shadows of the balcony, Daniel let his thoughts float away with sounds of the night. For a while he was in a pleasant limbo, no feelings or sombre thoughts penetrated the quiet barrier on his mind. Gradually, though, he became aware of the presence of another. Silent, watchful, hidden in the darkness further along the balcony. Turning slightly, squinting into the gloom, he could make out the figure of a man. Small, stooped with age, keen bird-like eyes peered at him, and then darted away to something the man was holding in his hand. His feeling of serenity broken, Daniel's manners overcame him and he moved forward.

"Um, hello. My name is Daniel Jackson - one of the delegates from Earth…"

"You bear the sadness of an old man, boy."

"Oh? Er..." There wasn't much to say to that, short of divulging his life story. The old man's attention dipped to the object in his hand again. The minutes ticked by, Daniel stood still, rather nonplussed by the sharp glances continuing to come his way. Finally breaking the silence, he asked, "What are you doing?"

"The moonlight gives you the look of an angel, boy." The old man's voice floated to him, a dry cracked whisper.

"Wha..? Err, um, thanks… I think. And I'm not a boy." Daniel inched closer, making out the sketchpad, the clawed hand flying over the page, a kind of charcoal pencil clutched deftly in it. "You're an artist?"

"Phah! If you can call someone who hasn't drawn a picture in years an artist, then yes, I suppose I am."

Sidling even closer, Daniel looked over the bent shoulder. His own face gazed up at him, turned slightly to one side, half hidden in the shadows of charcoal.

"That's very good," he offered.

"Humph."

The fresh morning light sparkled in the gentle swell of the surf. Too early to have enough energy to form actual waves, the water fell in sleepy laps along the shoreline. Quarrelling seabirds flapped away from the approaching sound of running feet. Jack and Sam, sharing a desire to experience as much as possible of this beautiful peaceful place, and despite going to sleep only a few hours earlier, were enjoying their dawn run along the beach.

Reaching the cliffs at the bay's end, they slowed, then halted, lungs pulling in the clean crisp air with gusto. They stood silently for a while, soaking in the view and sharing the peace of the dawn.

"It's a pity we can't convince Teal'c and Daniel to join us, sir," Sam said.

Jack grinned in agreement. Sucking in another lungful of pure air he laughed, "Hey, if you can get Teal'c to change the habits of a hundred year lifetime, or find a way to part Daniel from his nest, have at it, Carter."

Sam pulled a face and replied, "Think I'll stick to physics, sir. I'm happier with controllable explosions"

As Ehren's fat, yellow sun rose into the sky they retraced their path back to the complex of cabins dotted along the beachfront that had been given over to the off-world visitors. After a soak in the enormous bathtubs in their private bathrooms, they joined their colleagues gathering for an al-fresco breakfast beneath the shelter of an ancient spreading tree.

After greeting General Hammond, the Senator and Major Kovachek, Jack automatically checked for his team-mates; Teal'c was already packing away a hearty breakfast at one of the bench tables, while listening to Griff's description of one of his team's less than successful missions. Sam was sitting with Kate Llewellyn, a large cup of black coffee made from Daniel's private stash in her hand. And Daniel - was nowhere to be seen. Sighing to himself, Jack armed himself with a steaming cup of coffee and walked carefully down the pathway to Daniel's cabin.

Banging his fist on the door, Jack yodelled "Wakey, wakey, Daniel. Time to rise and shine."

Unsurprised by the lack of response, Jack barged in through the annoyingly unlocked door.

"Up and at 'em, buddy. Time to greet the new… day… What the…?"

Daniel was conspicuous by his absence. His suits hung on the clothing pegs, shoes neatly lined up under them. A quick glance into the bathroom confirmed his friend was not lazing in the bath. Moving over to the bed, Jack began to frown. The bed covers had been thrown so far back they draped onto the floor. Daniel's glasses sat folded on the glass and wicker bedside table. The slim book Sam had given Daniel recently on a whim lay face down on the floor, its beautifully decorated pages bent and abused. An empty drinking glass lay tipped on its side, escaped water leaving a trail over the table and onto the floor. The water had long since soaked into the rug.

Jack's mind quickly flashed back to the previous day, when he had sat sprawled on Daniel's bed watching him unpack. All the clothes his friend had brought with him were still here; business suit, shirts, tux - with the high collar and longer than normal length that on Jack would have looked absurd, but on Daniel had created quite an effect - sweat pants and t-shirt for sleeping in. That was it; everything was still here except for the clothing's owner. Surely even Daniel was not flaky enough to go out without clothes on.

His eyes travelled back to the overturned glass, the precious book now damaged, the bed's light coverings now draped on the floor. In his mind's eye, Jack could almost see Daniel in bed, being dragged out of the bed, the coverings catching on his body to fall just… so.

A cold prickle crept across Jack's brow. He picked up the delicate glasses, even as his right hand went for the Berretta that was not at his side. Changing direction to slap at the radio that was also not where it should be, he swore, turned on his heel and bolted out the door.

Do you have a name?

I care not.

Do you feel fear? Hate? Love? Anger? Compassion?

It matters not to me.

Do you lie at night in the arms of a lover?

Will she or he miss you now?

Do you devote your life to a purpose or do you float through time untouched by the existence of others?

I care not.

Will people miss you now?

Will they care for a while, then forget you?

It is of no concern to me.

You mean nothing. What desires, ambitions, loves, hates you possess will fade and dissipate as the summer flower withers, crumbles and disperses on the cold uncaring winds of winter. You will become nothing - needing only what I give you. Desiring nothing but that which I allow you to desire. Feeling nothing, seeing nothing, tasting, breathing nothing that I do not control. You are my clay, to be moulded and fitted to my needs and desires. You are my empty canvas, awaiting the colours and textures that I will give you to come alive.

My Muse has returned.

It is you.

Hours later, Jack was still swearing to himself. A quick search by the SGC personnel had determined Daniel was nowhere within the accommodation complex. No one had seen him since they had returned from the ball in the Citadel in the early hours of the morning. The immediate assumption of Goa'uld incursion was dismissed. The Ehren Stargate was monitored constantly and had not been activated since they themselves had come through the day before. The conclusion was quickly reached that Daniel had been the victim of some kind of domestic crime.

As they all came together once more for a briefing with the local police, Jack was finding it difficult to contain his anger. He rounded on Darmen Whey, the Inspector General of the Ehren Constabulary. "So, what you're saying is that Daniel has just vanished off the face of - this earth - and you have no idea what happened to him?"

Darmen Whey, a tall, grey-haired man stared Jack down and said firmly, "At the moment, no, we do not know what has happened to Doctor Jackson, but that is temporary, I assure you." Turning to the Senator and General Hammond, he continued; "Sirs, I have all available police resources mobilized. It is only a matter of time before we discover what befell Doctor Jackson. An abduction of this kind is extremely rare in our society, and as this has happened to one of your party, the suspects will be limited to those who have had contact with the Tau'ri or who stand to gain something from disturbing the accord between our peoples. Everyone who attended the signing ceremony, the tour parties and the ball last evening is being questioned. It should not be too much longer before we gain intelligence to assist our search."

General Hammond stepped in front of Jack before he could give further voice to his frustrations. "We do appreciate all you are doing to find Doctor Jackson, Darmen Whey. And I'm sure that he will be found safe and sound very soon. Unfortunately, the Senator and I must return to our duties on Earth. If it's alright with you, I'd like to leave Major Kovachek here as our intermediary, as well as the rest of our people, to help in the search."

"Of course, General Hammond."

Leaving the Senator to make his official farewells, Hammond gathered Jack and Major Kovachek to one side. "Colonel, I'm leaving you in charge here. While I'm just as concerned for Doctor Jackson's wellbeing as you are, I must stress that you do nothing to jeopardize the treaty with these people." Cutting off Jack's protest, he turned to Kovachek; "And Major, I leave it to you to ensure that diplomatic procedures are maintained."

"Yes sir." Kovachek nodded, casting a concerned glance at Jack's fuming face.

"General, I'd like to request we at least have our combat gear sent through. I'll be a lot happier if we don't have to rely completely on Ehren technology to communicate between teams."

"Granted, Colonel. And Jack? Don't worry. I'm sure the authorities will find Doctor Jackson in no time at all."

"Yes, sir. I just hope he's still in one piece when we do."

Despatching Sam and Major Griff back to earth to collect the team's gear, Jack moved over to the large picture windows at one end of the briefing room, gazing out at the peaceful city that somewhere harboured his friend. His friend who had been taken against his will, probably violently, and was being subjected to who knew what now.

Dammit Daniel. What the hell happened? Where are you? What are they doing to you? Why is it that every psycho nut job in the universe is attracted to you?

He wakes gently. His body rested, his mind at ease. For long moments he lays still, soaking in the feeling of serenity about him. No sounds disturb his peace, save a gentle whisper of silk curtains moving in the breeze.

He rises, stretching his body awake. He wears no clothing; but the air is warm, he has no need for it. He moves about the room touching the few objects there - the large round bed; silken sheets; the glass table, its loaded plates of fruits, breads, cheeses, pitchers of juices. The marble fountain; the waters burbling happily into the base. The soft towels lying to one side.

He is hungry. He eats.

He thirsts. He drinks.

He washes his body - cool water slides down his skin. He smiles at the sensation. He wanders to the curtain, touches. He knows no curiosity, no fear. No regret. No anticipation. He knows nothing and is at peace.

He moves through the curtain and steps into another world.

Sam was trying to rein in her growing sense of frustration as she patiently answered the questions put to her. Where had she been the day before? Had she noticed anyone paying unusual attention to Daniel? What did she think someone would hope to gain by taking him?

"As I said, Daniel is extremely gifted in languages, in understanding other cultures, in diplomacy. I really don't see anyone going to the trouble of kidnapping him for those skills. And with the treaty signed between our worlds I don't think they would take him to gain access to the SGC's secrets. I really didn't spend that much time with him yesterday. Teal'c was with him most of the day, he spent an hour or so resting and writing up his journal in his quarters and then we were all at the party together. The only time he was really alone was when he went out onto the balcony, mid way through the ball. And I joined him out there for a time. There was no-one else there."

Jack perked up at hearing this, and uncurled from the sofa where he'd been slouched listening to the interviews. "Actually, Sam, that's not true."

"Sir?"

Jack closed his eyes, focusing on the evening before. Got it! He snapped his fingers and marched up to where Sam was sitting. "When I came out onto the balcony, looking for you - there was someone else, further along, in the shadows."

Sam frowned, trying to recall the presence of anyone else, but failing. She had been focused on Daniel and their memories of Sha're. "I don't remember anyone else there, sir."

"Yeah, it was a man. Pretty old from what I could see, but he was all bent over - had some kind of book in his hand."

Darmen Whey and the other investigators turned eagerly to Jack, all asking questions at the same time.

"Ah ah! Shut up and let me think," Jack yelled back, throwing diplomacy to the winds in the desperate hope of having a clue to Daniel's whereabouts.

As Darmen Whey ordered a list of all elderly men present at the party, Teal'c's calming voice rang out over the din. "What kind of book did this man have, O'Neill?"

"It was large - blank. 'Bout two-feet square. The old geezer had some kind of hat on, too. With feathers in it."

One of the assistant investigators stepped forward, excitement animating her face. "That sounds like The Artist!"

"The What?" Jack glared at her.

Hurriedly, the woman was flipping through the list of guests invited to the ball. 'Yes! He was there!"

At the same time as Jack impatiently huffed out, "Who was?" Darmen Whey exclaimed. "Pheidias?"

Turning to the members of SG1, Darmen Whey apologised. "Pardon me, Colonel. We refer to a person commonly called The Artist. His name is Pheidias. He is considered the greatest artist and craftsman in this and indeed any age. He is acclaimed the world over for his innovative and magnificent paintings and sculptures. He stopped creating years ago, when his lover died. It is rare for him to be seen at public events, let alone attend a function such as the ball." Addressing his colleague he asked, "You are sure he was in attendance?"

"Yes sir," she replied. "And the Colonel's description matches that of Pheidias. He has been wearing that same hat with the feathers for years. It's his trademark. And he always carries an empty sketching book with him." She continued on to explain to the visitors; "It is really quite sad. He is so much admired and venerated by everyone, but he has been unable to produce any artworks in years. He is often seen wandering the streets as if searching for something or someone to inspire him. The sketching book he carries is always open at the first page, and it is forever blank."

"Well, it wasn't last night", Jack said. "He was drawing something when I came out to where Daniel and Sam were standing."

Both the Ehren investigators gaped at him. "Drawing something?" Darmen Whey sputtered.

"Oh, my heavens". The woman was looking at him in shock now. "If he… he was actually… DRAWING! Could, could he have been sketching Doctor Jackson?"

"I suppose so, I didn't really see it too clearly. What? You think this guy, this OLD guy carted Daniel away in the middle of the night? Danny's a pretty big boy, you know. There's no way that old geezer could drag him off."

Darmen Whey shook himself slightly, and stood up, reaching for the comm. lines on the desk behind him. "No," he said. "Of course Pheidias could not have taken Doctor Jackson by himself. But quite apart from being honoured and venerated he is also one of the wealthiest people on this planet. He would have no trouble acquiring assistance." Barking into the comm. lines he ordered, "Get Director Spring from the Museum here immediately."

The dying rays of Ehren's sun slanted directly into Sam's eyes as she and Teal'c walked tiredly up the front steps of Sorenia's main judiciary building. The obvious reminder that this day was nearing its end served only to increase the feelings of frustration and anxiety that had been churning within her all day. She and Teal'c had accompanied a squad of local police on the search of two known criminal's properties, and had been heading towards a third when Colonel O'Neill had re-directed them to the rambling estate on the outskirts of the city belonging to an artist. Unconcerned with the stares they were receiving from the locals who were unfamiliar with their military garb, they had forced the entry gates, swept into the beautiful old mansion, and proceeded to turn the place upside down. Every room had been searched, cupboards opened, doors forced. From basement to attic the squad moved with precision and found … nothing. No trace of this artist, no trace of their friend. Leaving a couple of police behind to conduct a more intensive forensic investigation, they returned with heavy hearts to the hub of the search.

Angling towards the colonel, Sam and Teal'c had to stop suddenly to avoid running into Director Spring from the museum, as she thundered past them in a pastel flurry. Exchanging a bemused glance, they came up behind the woman as she launched into a dramatic announcement.

"Darmen Whey, Colonel O'Neill, I believe there is something else we must consider about Pheidias, in relation to Doctor Jackson. The doctor may be in more danger than we first thought." Honorine gave a sympathetic grimace to O'Neill as he turned to face her.

"Oh great, NOW what?" Jack had long passed the point of good manners and was a hair's breadth away from outright disrespect. This day had been one long procession of fruitless searches, dead ends and unproductive witnesses. Nodding acknowledgement to Carter and Teal'c, he reined in his temper and enquired gently, "I'm sorry, Director Spring. What can you tell us?"

"I have been researching some of Pheidias' inventions. Master Teal'c will recall the Delphot device which is on display here in my museum?"

"Indeed, I do," Teal'c responded. Elaborating for O'Neill and Major Carter he said, "A remarkable device that when in contact with a person's hand produces an audio and visual display that filled the entire room. Each display was unique to the person in contact with the device. When Daniel Jackson touched it, the device created a harmonic chiming sound, accompanied by a light display of puffy pink clouds. It was a most impressive experience."

Honorine nodded. "The Delphot was invented by Pheidias. He donated it to the museum on the condition the provenance remained anonymous. It has been proven to do no harm to those using it, but…" She hesitated, not wanting to bring further worry to these good people, but knowing instinctively that she was correct in her assumptions.

"Spit it out, ma'am. Daniel's running out of time."

Honorine straightened and looked Jack in the eye. "One of the great unconfirmed rumours that has circulated within the artistic community for years now, is that the Delphot was merely a prototype for a much larger, much more… damaging apparatus. It is said that the Delphot looks into the soul of the person touching it, and constructs its images based on that person's soul. It is also said that Pheidias actually did build the larger version, and used it on his lover, Apollo, to compose his paintings. The stories have it that this machine does not just see into a person's soul and project the artistic image inspired by them, but that it actually takes the person's soul from them and transfers it to the media the artist is using. There is speculation that Pheidias' use of this apparatus on Apollo was the cause of his lover's illness and subsequent death."

Jack's mouth was open and his eyebrows were hanging off the clouds before Honorine was even halfway through her tale. "A soul sucking machine? You can't be serious." As ever when looking for an explanation of the ludicrous he turned to Sam. "Carter?"

Sam pushed down a flash of annoyance at the assumption that she would even begin to understand how such a machine could function. "Sir, I…" she floundered. "Sir, scientists on earth are still debating the existence of the human soul. For a mechanical device to not only tap into a person's soul, but to actually harness it and use it to produce art works… It would be way beyond anything we've come across so far." "Daniel Jackson did mention his hand felt strange after using the Delphot." Teal'c gazed down at Honorine. "However it did not affect Dr Llewellyn or myself at all. Would this indicate that Daniel Jackson is more susceptible to the effect of these devices?"

"It is possible, Master Teal'c. Some studies have been done on the Delphot. One theory does postulate that with certain people the Delphot makes a more intimate connection than with most others. Some of these people have maintained that they felt the audio and visual display produced by their contact with the Delphot was drawn from their very inner being - their soul if you wish."

"Daniel's inner megalomaniac produces puffy pink clouds?"

Sam felt a small grin appearing. "I don't know, sir. Daniel does kind of bring puffy pink clouds to mind sometimes."

Jack appreciated the small moment of humour. "I am so gonna tell him you said that, Carter." When we find him…

"So, Ms Spring, from what you're saying about this Apollo guy, it took quite a while for this apparatus thing to start to seriously affect him?"

Honorine replied gravely, "We must keep in mind that no-one really knows the affect this apparatus may have on Doctor Jackson. If indeed Pheidias is using it on him, he may feel forced to use the device on Doctor Jackson much more frequently than he did on his lover, for fear of discovery. If that is the true situation, I do fear now for the safety of Doctor Jackson. Pheidias' ruthlessness may push him into subjecting Doctor Jackson to an excessive exposure of this machine's effects, and I can only assume that as with any harmful experience, an extreme dose of whatever it uses as a catalyst could indeed place Doctor Jackson in serious harm within even the time that he has been gone from you."

Jack stared at her, prickles of icy dread clamping around his forehead. To either side of him he heard Sam's intake of alarmed breath, Teal'c's rumbling growl of displeasure. "You're saying it could already be too late?"

"I do apologise for distressing you all further, however I am beginning to believe it could be a possibility that, if our conjecture is correct, when we find Doctor Jackson, he may be irreparably harmed. I do sincerely hope that I am incorrect. I could be wrong…" She trailed off, not even convincing herself.

"Oh, that is so not going to happen. We'll find him, and Daniel will be fine." Daniel is always fine…

As the remaining members of SG3 and SG9 filtered into the command post alongside their local counterparts, Darmen Whey returned his attention from his brief conference with the search team leaders. "Colonel O'Neill, gentle beings, we have completed our searches of every one of the fourteen properties owned or known to have been used by Pheidias in Sorenia and several of the smaller towns in this area. No trace has been found of him or of Doctor Jackson. This leaves only one - a large mansion high up in the mountain ranges to the south. It is only a short distance by air." Bleakly he looked at the grim faces of the off-world guests. "It is our only possibility now."

Honorine Spring's clear voice rang across the room. "Pheidias used to live in the mountains almost exclusively when Apollo was alive."

Jack could not stop himself from stepping forward and declaring, "Great, let's go, right now. And Darmen - I'd appreciate it if you would send someone to the Stargate and send a message through asking for our Doctor Fraiser to come through. She's had more experience dealing with the effects of alien gizmos than anyone on our and probably your world too."

"It shall be done, Colonel."

An excited air of expectation rose as the SGC teams and the police squads gathered their equipment, checked weapons and comm. links, and headed out to the adjacent airfield.

The land below them sped past in a silent, darkened blur. Jack leant against the cold window, his gaze unfocused, his mind bouncing from one scenario to another. Bad enough that people think they can just take Daniel and use him for their own means - but to inspire some artist? I ask you! Images of Daniel's bright intellect flashed through his memory. The astounding leaps of intuitive logic, the uncanny ability to virtually absorb a new language and not only find a translation but to find an insight into the lives of the people who had originally spoken and written it. The warmth and compassion and simple caring the man had for so many of the people they met. Daniel was a shining example of the best that humanity could offer, and without him the world, hell the universe would be a much smaller, sadder place.

The thought that someone could just take that wondrous soul and destroy it for the sake of a slap of paint on canvas - it was so not gonna happen. Hang on Danny; we're coming for you…

The three air vehicles, a cross between a stealth fighter and a wide-bodied helicopter, streaked across the night sky. Jack made a mental note to have Kovachek add one of these to the swap list. Silent, capable of transporting two dozen soldiers and equipment, they reminded him of the USAF's MH53 Pave Low chopper, but in a good way. Before them loomed the mountain range, thousands of meters high, snow glinting brightly on the summits. And there, perched three quarters of the way up the forested slopes was their goal - a large rambling collection of buildings. The white stone walls gleamed in the moonlight, lighting the way for the rescuers.

Barely a blade of grass was disturbed as the three elegant craft set down on the precisely ordered gardens that swept away from the mansion, flowing in a living cascade to the edge of the cliffs some two hundred yards away. Alerted to their presence, security lights flooded the forecourt with brilliance. Jack threw himself from the aircraft, ducking and running in a swift controlled manner born of long years in combat. He felt his focus narrow, unimportant matters fading into the background; the target, the lay of the land, his troops, and his ultimate goal the only features in his concentrated mind. His body was relaxed yet alert, comfortable in his cammos, his P90 locked, loaded and leading the way. True to the briefing conducted in-flight the mansion was a vast sprawling affair; long two storied wings spreading away from a central, five storied main building. Behind that main house would be six lesser support buildings. On cue, SG3 peeled off to the right to take control of the west wing, SG9 doing the same to the left, heading for the mansion's east wing. Two squads of police headed towards a cobbled passageway that would lead to the out buildings. Backed up by Darmen Whey and a squad of six crack assault troops, SG1 stormed through the main entrance of the grandiose home.

The locked and barred ornate iron doors stood no longer than a few seconds, blown apart by a little C4 and a large Jaffa foot. In they went, Jack taking the centre position, Carter to the left, Teal'c to the right, moving like the precise military team they were. The entrance foyer was a huge echoingly empty chamber, soft moonlight filtering in through glass windows set high in the cold white marble walls and gleaming on the polished marble floor. Jack was immediately struck by the unwelcoming feel of the place. No green plants, no brightly coloured rugs or even unsmiling family portraits on the walls. Only an elegant staircase, framed in gleaming bronze railings broke the sterility of the place. For the home of an artist, it gave the distinct atmosphere of a tomb. Jack pushed that unsavoury thought away.

"Clear this side, sir." Sam's voice rang like a bell around the marble chamber.

"There is no sign of anyone on this side either, O'Neill." Teal'c's baritone joined his teammate's in an echoing chorus.

Jack traded a quick glance with his team, and with Darmen Whey. "Right, up we go."

Taking point, Jack pounded up the staircase. At the first landing his glance confirmed no targets in sight. Moving to the right he signalled Darmen Whey to head to the left, so aware of his team following him he felt as if they were physically connected to him. The passage was also made of the gleaming white marble. Only three doors stood closed to them, quickly opened with a solid shove. All revealed bedrooms or sitting rooms, furniture swathed in dust shrouded sheeting. Nothing. No one found, they regrouped at the staircase and continued on up to the second floor. The second and third floors alike revealed cold impersonal rooms; vacant and dispossessed of the trappings of a home.

As they gathered together once more at the staircase, the reports from the other teams confirming the same lack of any living person, Jack began to quietly despair of finding his friend here at all. And if he were not here - then where on this world would he be?

Running; feet pounding into the floor, breath catching in my throat; senses fully attuned to the surroundings, nostrils catching the scent of jasmine in the warm air, eyes squinting against the glare of bright moonlight streaming into the hallway from tall stained glass windows. Another door; stop, weapon ready, shoulder pushes as hand releases the catch, in … sweep left to right - windows, stored boxes, no other door, clear … empty … back up, out, on to the next. All around me the sounds of others repeating my movements, banging of doors, shouts of "clear" echoing off the marble walls; searching, searching, and not finding…

God, you have to be here, there's nowhere else, this has to be the place; there's no more time to waste, so much already wasted… You've been gone too long already, every minute more the threat grows, we could lose more and more of you… till there's nothing left to reclaim… NO. Not going to think that, not going to happen. I will find you, and you'll be YOU… That beautiful mind will be intact and giving me all kinds of hell…

No more doors here; sweep up the stairs, the last landing, more fucking marble, only one door, follow the red dot… You WILL be here. Suck in a breath, crank the handle, nudge the door and I'm in…




Go on to part two

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