10.14 "The Shroud" Transcript

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10.14 "The Shroud"

Episode Guide

Précis

The team, sans Daniel Jackson, travels to a planet which has been visited by a Prior of the Ori. The villagers aren’t sure that this Prior is as much of a threat as the team thinks he is. When the team meets the Prior, they realize why he is so very different from the rest.

Guide | Transcript

Transcript

PREVIOUSLY ON STARGATE SG-1

EXCERPT FROM 10.10 "THE QUEST PART 1

[Osric, SG-1, and Ba'al walk through a field towards a large mountain in the distance.]

EXCERPT FROM 9.18 "ARTHUR'S MANTLE"

[Daniel translates Merlin's log from the transdimensional device.]

DANIEL
Merlin was conducting research on some kind of new invention…A weapon capable of destroying ascended beings.

EXCERPTS FROM 10.11 "THE QUEST PART 2"

INT—MERLIN'S LAB

[An old man with long white hair and beard sleeps within an Ancient stasis pod. Daniel translates the Ancient plaque near the pod.]

DANIEL
Here lies Myrddin, Archmage of the Round.

LATER

[Merlin is thrust backward and falls to the floor before Daniel or Vala can stop him. They kneel beside Merlin. His eyes are fixed open; he takes one last breath, then stops. Daniel puts his fingers on Merlin's neck, beneath his beard.]

DANIEL
He's dead.

LATER

[Daniel and Vala stand in front of the Repository device.]

DANIEL
We've seen it used to download information into someone's mind.

LATER

[Daniel uses the device.]

LATER

[Mitchell and Vala talk to Daniel.]

VALA
You have Merlin's memories?

DANIEL
Some of them. Earth, Atlantis, and the work he did in this lab.

LATER

[Daniel interfaces with the Ancient repository device. Several large pieces join to form a disk-shaped object. It settles to the top of the platform and materializes. The machine shuts off. Mitchell and Vala approach.]

MITCHELL
What is that?

DANIEL
The first step towards creating Merlin's weapon.

LATER

[Daniel sits, wincing in pain. Vala crouches in front of him.]

DANIEL

(breathing heavily)

I just have too many thoughts in my head. I—I can't concentrate. I get confused.

VALA
You have to fight it.

DANIEL

(putting his fingers to his temples)

I have to let it happen.

EXT—STARGATE AREA OUTSIDE MERLIN'S CAVE, DAY

[SG-1 are in a firefight with Ori soldiers coming through the Stargate.]

[Daniel is thrown out of Merlin's cave onto the ground. Adria exits. She raises her hand and red energy tendrils form and launch towards SG-1. Daniel jumps in front and blocks the blast with a white energy blast of his own. The two are at a stalemate, but Daniel struggles.]

DANIEL

(straining with effort)

Get through the Gate!…I'll be right behind you.

[Mitchell grabs Vala and takes her to the gate and into the wormhole. Carter and Teal'c reluctantly follow.]

[Daniel collapses, barely conscious. Adria stands over him, smiling.]

END EXCERPTS

TEASER

EXT—VILLAGE SQUARE OFFWORLD, DAY

[SG-1, still missing Daniel, walk through the village, talking with the leader, Tevaris. Tevaris carries a copy of the "Book of Origin" with him.]

TEVARIS
He was very persuasive.

MITCHELL
Convert or die. Yeah I'd say that's got some bite.

TEVARIS
He said nothing of death, only salvation and life eternal. The blessings of the Ori.

VALA

(suspicious)

He didn't threaten you?

TEVARIS
He spoke of…the religion. Left this book with us to read and consider. Said he'd be back today to hear our answer.

[Tevaris indicates the "Book of Origin" in his hand.]

CARTER
Well, you're not alone. This is happening all over the galaxy.

TEVARIS
Are you saying this Prior's claims are false?

MITCHELL
We're saying that book's got about as much truth in it as The DaVinci Code.

VALA

(conspiratorially)

Hey, that's what they want you to think.

MITCHELL
"They?" They who?

TEVARIS
I do not understand.

MITCHELL
It's a book, from our planet. It's very entertaining, but it is fiction nonetheless.

VALA

(chuckling to Tevaris)

I wouldn't be so sure.

[Carter steps in front of the group.]

CARTER
Okay, I think we've gotten a little off point, here.

TEVARIS
What evidence do you have to support your position?

CARTER

(off-guard)

Well, we really don't…have any. And we can't tell you what to do. Obviously, subjugating people by threatening their lives is wrong. So if you choose to resist, we'll do our very best to try to help you.

MITCHELL
Not that we can make many promises, but we've seen a number of villages just like this one wiped out.

VILLAGER

(in background)

Load the wagon and take it to the river.

TEVARIS
As I have said, the Prior made no such threat… and spoke upon the positive merits of Origin as true salvation.

MITCHELL

(low, to Carter)

Soft-sell, that's a new approach.

CARTER

(to Mitchell)

Mm-hmm.

VILLAGER

(calling from a distance)

The Prior of Ori returns!

MITCHELL
Listen, no matter which way you're gonna come down on this, it's probably best if that Prior doesn't know we're around.

TEVIAS

(nodding)

You can hide here.

[Tevaris leads the team to a tent. They remain in the shadows there, watching through the opening as the Prior approaches. Villagers gather around as Tevaris greets the Prior.]

TEVARIS
Welcome back.

PRIOR
Thank you, Tevaris. Have you contemplated your divine right?

TEVARIS
We have, Prior. We wish to hear more of your wisdom.

PRIOR
It is not my wisdom, but the wisdom of the ages passed on to us by the only true gods…

[The Prior lowers his hood. It is Daniel Jackson. His face is pale and tattooed, his eyes milk colored, and his hair greyed, as is common with the Priors.]

DANIEL
Hallowed are the Ori.

[SG-1 watch, stunned.]

END TEASER

OPENING CREDITS

INT—SGC BRIEFING ROOM

[Carter, Vala, Mitchell, and Teal'c brief Landry.]

VALA
Adria must have done something to him. I mean, before turning him into a Prior.

LANDRY
You mean, she brainwashed him somehow?

CARTER
Well, Daniel would never willingly become one of them like that. Preach their beliefs.

MITCHELL
He's damn good at it. Had those people eating out of his hands without issuing one tiny little genocidal threat.

VALA
That's what makes me think there's still a part of Daniel in there somewhere. H-he's better than all this!

CARTER
Yes! But we still have to face the very real possibility that it's not even really Daniel anymore. Having Merlin's consciousness downloaded into his mind could've overshadowed Daniel completely—weakened him to the point where Adria could do this.

TEAL'C
Still, we cannot abandon him.

LANDRY
So what do we do?

MITCHELL
We go get him. Try to figure out what happened; try to undo it. Turn him back.

LANDRY
That's going to be very risky.

VALA
Could be exactly what Adria's hoping for. She might be using him to get to us.

CARTER
Still, it's Daniel. If there's any chance…

TEAL'C
We have no choice.

[Landry nods.]

EXT—VILLAGE SQUARE, SUNSET

[The Prior Daniel Jackson stands on a couple of wooden boxes, reading from the "Book of Origin" to the gathering crowd.]

DANIEL

"Aroden then took off the mask and revealed his face. 'Your appearance matters not,' he said. 'Only the truth of spirit in your heart.'"
(he closes the book)

Blessed are those that follow the path to Origin.

[Daniel is beamed away, causing cries of consternation amongst the villagers.]

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[Daniel is beamed into a room that has a chair, similar, if not identical, to the one the SGC used to secure Khalek. Mitchell and Teal'c are waiting for him, both with zats readied. Behind them, on a table, is an anti-Prior device. Daniel blinks but seems unconcerned at this circumstance.]

DANIEL

(annoyed)

Hey! What took you guys so long?

[Teal'c and Mitchell exchange sidelong looks. Teal'c lowers his zat as Mitchell fires. Daniel crumples to the floor with a grunt, unconscious.]

MITCHELL

(into wireless headset)

Carter, we've got him.

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[Carter sits in the commander's chair; crew man their stations around her.]

CARTER

(into radio)
Great!
(to helmsman)

Take us into hyperspace.

EXT—SPACE

[The Odyssey leaves orbit of the planet and jumps into hyperspace.]

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[Carter joins her teammates. Heavily armed guards are posted nearby. Daniel has been secured to the chair, still unconscious. Each arm is strapped down on the armrest by large metal bands and his legs are pinned to the footrest by a metal bar. His Prior robes have been removed, and he is now dressed in blue prisoner jumpsuit.]

CARTER

(nervously)

I take it the anti-Prior device is working?

MITCHELL
Well, he didn't stop us from zatting him.

[Daniel stirs.]

DANIEL
Guys?

[Carter approaches, studying him.]

CARTER
Daniel?

DANIEL
What's going on?

VALA
We could be asking you.

[Daniel realizes he is restrained. He taps his fingers impatiently against the armrest and rocks against the chair.]

DANIEL
Okay…this is not necessary.

MITCHELL
No offense, but have you looked in the mirror lately?

DANIEL

(irked)

I'm not a threat to you.

MITCHELL
In case you change your mind, you should know there is someone with a finger poised over a button waiting to beam you out into space.

[Daniel leans back in the chair and closes his eyes.]

DANIEL
We had to let this happen. It's part of the plan.

CARTER
I'm sorry, "we"?

DANIEL
Oh yeah. Myself and…Merlin.

VALA

(skeptically)

Oh, so he's still inside you?

DANIEL
Yeah, you remember back on the planet when Adria and I were fighting it out?

MITCHELL
Yeah. Thanks for that by the way.

DANIEL
Yeah, it's a good thing you guys got out too. Uh, she was…way too powerful for me. But I couldn't just let Merlin's weapon fall into her hands. I know it's our only chance of destroying the Ori.

VALA
You gave in.

DANIEL
More or less.

FLASHBACK

EXT—SPACE

[An Ori warship flies at subspace speeds.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP CORRIDOR

[Adria and Daniel walk through the corridor of the warship. Adria is in a gold brocade strapless gown. Daniel is dressed in the blue uniform of an Ori crew member. Other crew members pause and bow as the Orici, Adria, goes by.]

ADRIA
Of course, Origin is designed to channel the energy of its followers to the Ori. It's that unselfish act of giving that leads one's soul to salvation and ultimately to ascension. This is no great secret. The "Book of Origin" says: "Make yourself one with the path, and the journey will lead you to eternity." Were it not for the power the Ori draw from our belief, the Ancients would've wiped them out long ago.

DANIEL
Why?

ADRIA
You know the answer. You were once ascended.

DANIEL

(caustically)

Because they won't tolerate anyone or anything that doesn't follow their collective rules.

ADRIA
They claim not to interfere, but they do manipulate. They use their power to hoard their knowledge and prevent those beneath them from reaching their level.

DANIEL

(voiceover)

She seemed to know everything about me, and she had a…a tremendous power of persuasion. It was almost as if I could hear her voice inside my head telling me what to believe.

END FLASHBACK

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

DANIEL
So, I let her believe that she was getting to me, turning me.

MITCHELL
Why?

DANIEL
Because I needed her to trust me.

VALA

(bitingly)

And did she? Well, I mean, don't get me wrong, you're not a terrible liar, but you're nowhere near as good as me.

MITCHELL
Who is?

VALA

(shrugging in agreement to Mitchell)
Huh.
(accusingly, to Daniel)

And Adria could see right through me, so how did you manage to fool her?

DANIEL

(speaking more formally)

I was able to protect Daniel; make Adria think he had succumbed to her will.

CARTER
Merlin?

DANIEL

(nodding in acknowledgment)

It was necessary.

FLASHBACK

INT—ADRIA'S CHAMBER, ORI WARSHIP

[Daniel kneels on the floor, surrounded by several cushions. Each hand rests over one of his knees, and his demeanor is relaxed. Adria kneels across from him. Both appear to be meditating. Adria opens her eyes and studies Daniel.]

ADRIA
In our time together, I've really come to see in you what draws Mother's affection.

DANIEL

(startled)

Affectio-what?

[Adria moves closer to Daniel, still on her knees until she is directly in front of him.]

ADRIA
It's very important to me that we save her together.

DANIEL
Oh, of course.

ADRIA

(smiling)

I can feel the difference in you.

[Daniel blinks.]

DANIEL

(sincerely)

It's because you've done so much for me, showing me the true path.

ADRIA
I'm glad. And there's so much more I can do for you. And you for me.

[Daniel stares at Adria curiously. She leans forward, and they kiss. Afterwards, she clasps both his forearms, which are still resting on his knees. The pendant around her neck begins to glow, surrounding Daniel. When it dissipates, Daniel has been converted into a Prior. She caresses his cheek.]

END FLASHBACK

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

VALA

(unconvinced)

So, she trusted you enough to turn you into a Prior?

DANIEL
She had to.

MITCHELL
Why, exactly?

DANIEL

(forcefully)

Because she knew I was her best chance at converting Earth.

VALA

(low, to Mitchell)

And me.

[Daniel's team exchange concerned looks.]

CARTER
Well, that would explain why she wanted to believe you, not why she had to.

DANIEL
She had Merlin's weapon, she just didn't know how to finish it.

MITCHELL
I thought she knew everything.

VALA

(softly)

She's human. Her knowledge is still limited.

CARTER
But Merlin knew how.

DANIEL
It was a quick and easy way to avoid an all-out war between the Ori and the Ancients. She knows the device can be used to wipe out the Ancients, so I told her I would finish it for her.

MITCHELL
Did you?

DANIEL
Not exactly, but close. I needed to have the rest of my plan in place before I finished it.

[The others exchange skeptical looks.]

MITCHELL
Which is?

DANIEL
I needed her to make me a Prior.

VALA
Hello!

DANIEL

(continuing quickly)

So I could steal an Ori ship and fly it through the Supergate to the Ori galaxy with the weapon on board and destroy them.

CARTER
Okay, um, one small flaw in that plan.

DANIEL
I know, there's a wormhole blocking the Supergate, and that's why I'm here. I need you guys to shut it down.

[Daniel looks at his teammates hopefully as they exchange shocked expressions.]

EXT—CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN, DAY

INT—SGC BRIEFING ROOM

[SG-1, minus Daniel, briefs both Landry and O'Neill.]

CARTER
He knew he was no match for her, and he couldn't let Merlin's unfinished weapon fall into her hands. So, he and Merlin came up with a plan to fool Adria into thinking that he had succumbed to her power.

MITCHELL
So he could continue to work on the weapon. Ostensibly, this time for her to use against the Ancients.

O'NEILL

(puzzled)

Merlin?

VALA
He says he still has Merlin's consciousness in his mind.

CARTER
Merlin even seemed to be speaking on occasion. Daniel says that's what's protected him from Adria's influence and what's allowed him to convince her to make him a Prior.

O'NEILL

(warily)

Why did he need her to make him a Prior?

VALA
So he could steal the Ori ship with the weapon on board and fly it through the Supergate.

CARTER
He wants us to shut down the incoming wormhole, so he can dial out.

O'NEILL

(skeptically)

Yeah. So he says.

TEAL'C
You do not believe Daniel Jackson is being truthful.

O'NEILL

(shrugging)

Oh, I want to believe him.

MITCHELL
That could be exactly what they expect of us.

CARTER
If Adria really did somehow manage to brainwash Daniel, then…

LANDRY

(interrupting)

This whole thing could be an elaborate plot to get us to shut down that wormhole so more Ori ships can come into our galaxy.

[SG-1 nod in agreement.]

VALA

(leaning forward)

So what do we do?

[O'Neill and the others exchange looks.]

EXT—SPACE

[Odyssey floats in Earth orbit.]

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[O'Neill enters. The anti-Prior device is still active, and two heavily armed SFs guard Daniel.]

O'NEILL

(to guards)

Fellas…?

[He gestures for them to leave. They take positions outside the door, which closes behind them. O'Neill approaches Daniel cautiously, studying him. After a pause…]

O'NEILL
This is new.

DANIEL

(pleasantly)

Yeah, it's always something, isn't it?

O'NEILL

(grimacing)

Gotta tell ya, though. Not your look.

DANIEL
Oh, it is just temporary.

O'NEILL
Really?

DANIEL
Yeah! Yeah, see when, um, Merlin programmed the Ancient device to download his consciousness into my brain, he gave it a time limit. See, he knew I could only survive so long with the knowledge and consciousness of two distinct people in one mind, so…

[While Daniel speaks, O'Neill grabs a stool from the other side of the room and wheels it back.]

O'NEILL
And when he goes?

DANIEL
He's genetically programmed my body and mind to revert back to the state it was in before he was downloaded.

O'NEILL

(sitting)

He can do that?

DANIEL
Yeah, I'm hoping so. I won't look like this anymore. I won't have any of the Prior's special abilities. Unfortunately, I'll just be li'l ol' me again.

O'NEILL
But that's good news.

DANIEL
Yeah, except I won't be able to fly an Ori ship; it will be too late to execute the plan; and Adria will have Merlin's weapon.

O'NEILL

(suspiciously)

I thought that wasn't finished yet.

DANIEL
It's very close. All the pieces are there. It just needs to be assembled. Adria will figure it out.

O'NEILL
And just when does your "chariot" turn back into a "pumpkin"?

DANIEL

(sighing)

I don't have much time…A day or so.

O'NEILL
A day?! Kinda risky leaving it this late in the game.

DANIEL
Well, I didn't have much choice, and it took you guys a little longer to capture me than I planned, so…

O'NEILL
Right…Why did we have to do that again?

DANIEL

(reasonably)

Well, I couldn't exactly just come to you. I think Adria might have suspected something.

O'NEILL
Yes, I see.

DANIEL
Jack, you have to believe me!

O'NEILL
Why?

DANIEL

(incredulous)

Why?! Well, because, oh I don't know, the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance!?

O'NEILL

(shaking his head)

You know, that old chestnut's gettin' a little…old.

DANIEL

(voice rising)

No, no, that part never gets old. Now, you have to shut down that Supergate, and you have to let me go!

O'NEILL

(equably)

You know how much I hate being told what to do.

DANIEL
Jack! It's ME!

O'NEILL

(yelling)

What, that's supposed to convince me!? Look at you!

DANIEL

Have I ever let you down?
(hurriedly before O'Neill retorts)

No! Don't answer that. Have I ever let you down when it really mattered?

O'NEILL

(yelling)

I don't even know who I'm really talking to right now!

DANIEL
Not when you were being tortured by Ba'al, killed, brought back to life, over and over again? I stood by you the whole time…

O'NEILL
All right, just stop! I don't need to be reminded of that! I've been around this barbecue a few times. Just because you know the stuff Daniel knows doesn't mean you're him, doesn't mean you're telling the truth. I mean, come on, you've got to know what you're asking me to do.

DANIEL

(earnest and forceful)

I do!

O'NEILL
You know, there's a bottom line here. Carter doesn't think it can be done.

DANIEL

(shaking his head and talking over him)

Yes it can. A Mark IX beamed directly behind the Gate in the Pegasus Galaxy will destroy that Gate. The wormhole connection will be broken!

O'NEILL

(incredulous)

How do you know that?

DANIEL

(fidgeting in the chair and tossing his head)

Hello?! Merlin!

O'NEILL

(rolling his eyes and drawling mockingly)

Oh yes. "Merlin"!

DANIEL

(frustrated)

Jack, I wish I had proof. I wish I had a way to convince you, but I don't. Now, this was the only choice I had, and I took it. It's a good plan. It-it just happens to hinge on you guys believing in me, having a little "faith". Now I thought you of all people might!

O'NEILL

(yelling)

WHY?! You of all people should know that I don't believe anything anybody says, even if I understand what they're talking about!

DANIEL

(pleading)

Jack, it's me!

O'NEILL
Yeah?

[Daniel fidgets in his chair again, his eyebrows raised, his expression hopeful.]

O'NEILL

(waving dismissively)

Oh.

[He turns away and leaves. Daniel waves his restrained hands in frustration.]

EXT—CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN, DAY

INT—CARTER'S LAB

[Carter and O'Neill study some paperwork together over her worktable.]

CARTER
He's right, sir. A Mark IX Gatebuster beamed directly behind the event horizon so the force won't be absorbed by the active wormhole would destroy the Gate and sever the connection.

O'NEILL

(sighing)

Yeah, I should've known that.

CARTER
So, do-do you believe him now?

O'NEILL
I honestly don't know.

CARTER
Unfortunately, I don't think a polygraph would work in this case.

O'NEILL

(turning to her)

No, but I'm not worried about that. See, I think we've got something better.

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[Teal'c strides into the room heading directly to Daniel. He stands close to the chair, his body posture intimidating.]

DANIEL
You know, Teal'c, the longer I'm gone, the more suspicious Adria's going to become.

TEAL'C
Why were you preaching to the villagers on that planet?

DANIEL

(confused)

What? I-I told you, I found out you guys were going to be there, so I set myself up to be captured.

TEAL'C
You misunderstand me, Daniel Jackson. Why is Adria not suspicious of your actions? You attempt to reform a meaningless planet of people instead of completing the weapon.

DANIEL

(grudgingly)

Actually, she was the one who stopped me before I completed the weapon.

TEAL'C
Why?

FLASHBACK

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

[Merlin's Ancient interface computer is in the chamber. Daniel uses the machine, building the weapon. Large pieces of it fall into place. Adria enters. She lays a gentle hand on Daniel's back before approaching the weapon. Daniel notes her presence, then turns back to the interface.]

DANIEL
I'm almost done.

ADRIA
I know. You must stop for now.

[Daniel complies, turning off the machine and approaching her, curious.]

DANIEL
You're afraid the Ancients will take the device away from us before we can use it.

ADRIA
They've interfered once before in its creation. You're using Merlin's knowledge, knowledge he kept from when he was ascended.

DANIEL
But if I don't finish it…

ADRIA
For now, you must help bring the energy of more followers into the fold.

END FLASHBACK

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[Teal'c studies Daniel closely as he speaks.]

DANIEL
The original plan was for the Ori to convert our whole galaxy so that they could build up their power enough to attack the Ancients. But even then, a conflict like that on that level was going to be costly. But now they have a weapon that could destroy all Ascended Beings within the scope of an entire galaxy in one fell swoop. They just need to distract the Ancients long enough so that they can use it.

TEAL'C
Engage them in battle long enough to complete the weapon.

DANIEL

(nodding)

Then back off to safety while Adria detonates it.

TEAL'C
If the Ancients perceive this weapon as a threat, why not intervene and simply take it now?

DANIEL
I have no idea. I mean, maybe they want to give my plan a chance to work. Either way, the Ori believe they still need more power to maximize their chances for success.

TEAL'C
More power. That means they will need more followers.

DANIEL
Exactly. Adria's out working hard for the cause, which leaves me the perfect opportunity to steal the ship with the weapon on it. If you guys would just believe I'm still on your side!

[Daniel's voice rises, angry and frustrated, and he stares at Teal'c. Teal'c glowers back. Daniel takes a deep breath and meets Teal's gaze earnestly.]

DANIEL

(softly)

We're running out of time.

INT—BRIEFING ROOM

[Teal'c enters. Vala, Mitchell, Carter, and O'Neill sit around the table.]

TEAL'C
I believe Daniel Jackson speaks the truth.

O'NEILL
Lotta good it's gonna do us.

[O'Neill points with his thumb towards Landry's office. Through the window, Teal'c observes Landry and Richard Woolsey. Landry moves towards the door heading to the briefing room. He enters.]

LANDRY

(furious)

I'm gonna let you tell them yourself, because I don't have the stomach for it.

[Woolsey follows him into the room.]

MITCHELL
Aw, that's all right, sir. Gen. O'Neill filled us in. The IOA has nixed the whole thing.

LANDRY
No, I don't think you know everything.

[Everyone looks up, concerned, and stares at Woolsey. Woolsey cautiously approaches the table.]

WOOLSEY
I… You have to understand, we've considered all the evidence at our disposal. But more than that, as difficult as this is, I feel very strongly that we have no viable option.

[Mitchell stands, hands on hips, and moves close to Woolsey.]

MITCHELL
You wanna get to the point?!

WOOLSEY
I assure you this may be the hardest decision I'll ever make. But I take full responsibility for it. Based on my recommendation, the IOA has proposed to the President that Daniel Jackson's life be terminated…immediately.

[SG-1 and O'Neill look stricken.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Odyssey continues its orbit.]

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[Daniel remains secured in his chair. Vala sits on his lap, her legs swinging over one side.]

DANIEL

(impatiently)

So…what the hell is going on?

VALA
This and that. You know, the usual. You'll never believe what's happening on One Life to Live.

DANIEL

(nodding dismissively)

You know, I really hate to press the issue here, but I do have a deadline.

[Vala grimaces and looks away.]

VALA

(under her breath)

Oh, so do we.

DANIEL

(mockingly)
Oh yes, I know. Before I figure out how to overcome the effects of the anti-Prior device, oooh.
(annoyed)

I thought Teal'c believed me!

VALA
Oh, he does.

DANIEL

(cautiously)

Jack?

VALA
No, he's on your side too.

[Daniel looks at her more closely.]

VALA
That…little weasel man who somehow…represents your government?

[Daniel thinks for a moment.]

DANIEL
Woolsey?

VALA

(reluctantly)

I-I can't be certain, but…I think he might not like you.

[Daniel's expression turns grave.]

DANIEL
He wants to have me killed, doesn't he?

VALA

(falsely bright)

Well, I'm not sure how serious he is. He seems like quite the prankster to me.

DANIEL
No, I was afraid of that. He was the one who argued to keep Khalek alive and got burned for it.

VALA
Khalek?

DANIEL
Oh, Anubis's highly evolved half-breed son. Two people died as a result. It could've been…much worse.

VALA

(softly)
Now that you mention it, that seems to be in play.
(she pats him on the arm)

But, not to worry. If it comes down to it, I have a plan.

[Vala hops off of Daniel's lap. Daniel does not appear reassured.]

DANIEL

(sarcastically)

Oh, you have a plan. Great. What is it?

[Vala turns around, letting out a huff of breath. Daniel watches her shrewdly.]

VALA

(stammering)

Well…when I said that I had a plan, I meant that I have…to plan…the plan. So when…or-or rather if it comes down to it, I will have a plan. I've, um, cleared my whole afternoon…for the planning.

DANIEL

(somber)

You believe me, right?

[Vala gulps, her eyes wide.]

VALA

(weakly)

Mm-hmm.

DANIEL
Okay. Now I don't believe you.

[Daniel and Vala stare at each other. She grabs one of the stools and rolls it over close to him, sitting on it. Her expression is now earnest, her voice soft and serious.]

VALA
Imagine our positions were reversed. What would you do?

[Daniel tilts his head and looks at her pointedly.]

DANIEL
Hmm.

VALA
I know you've trusted me even when you've had every reason not to. But perhaps I'm the only one who knows how dangerous and powerful Adria is. There's no evidence, only your word. And that should be enough. But this is so big.

DANIEL
Well, I wouldn't let them kill you.

VALA

(chuckling without humor)

Of course not. I won't let that happen to you. But would you support me if what I was proposing could very well open the door to the final Ori victory? Not if there was the slightest chance that I wasn't on the level. Even if it was the tiniest, nagging doubt.

[Daniel remains silent and pensive as Vala stands and leaves the room.]

INT—LANDRY'S OFFICE

[Landry sits behind his desk. O'Neill and Woolsey sit next to each other in chairs across from him. They are in the middle of a heated discussion]

O'NEILL
That's a load of crap! You're wasting our time.

WOOLSEY
Dr. Jackson was the one who suggested we should kill Khalek.

O'NEILL
He was the demon spawn of Anubis!

WOOLSEY
And Dr. Jackson is now potentially an even greater threat!

LANDRY
I think the operative word there is "potentially." We don't know exactly what's going on yet.

WOOLSEY
And by the time we do, it may be too late! We know that anti-Prior device will only subdue his powers for a limited time. After that, you won't be able to control him!

O'NEILL
All right, listen to me closely, 'cause I'm only going to say this once. You kill Daniel…over my dead body!

LANDRY
Obviously, we need to discuss some realistic options.

WOOLSEY
We can't hold Dr. Jackson long-term, and we can't release him given what he knows.

LANDRY
Well, if he has fallen under their influence, the Ori likely know everything they can learn from him already.

WOOLSEY
What are you suggesting?

LANDRY
Dr. Jackson claims he'll revert back to his old self in short order. We only need to hold him long enough to see if that's true. If it's not, we still have the option of placing him in stasis.

WOOLSEY
If he hasn't already caused a major catastrophe by then.

O'NEILL
Oh, will you stop it! If he is telling the truth, then we've blown the best chance we've ever had of beating the bad guys!

INT—CARTER'S LAB

[Teal'c, Mitchell, and Carter stand waiting in the lab. O'Neill enters.]

CARTER
How's it going, sir?

O'NEILL

(frustrated)

Longing for the days when I actually carried a weapon! What do you got?

CARTER
A crazy idea.

O'NEILL
I'm down with crazy. I like crazy. Crazy and I are like "that".

[He gestures, showing his first two fingers next to each other, then separate. Carter turns to Mitchell.]

CARTER
Cam likes crazy too.

MITCHELL
Listen, if what Jackson is saying is true, there is an Ori ship out there with a near-complete weapon on it that could prove useful against the Ori. I think we should go after it.

O'NEILL
You're right. That's crazy!

MITCHELL
I'm just saying, if they're not gonna let Jackson complete his mission, there is no reason that we shouldn't try.

TEAL'C
Daniel Jackson may be able to provide us with the intelligence required to ensure the success of this mission.

MITCHELL
He might be able to tell us where the ship is and how to get aboard undetected.

CARTER
And he must have enough knowledge of their technology by now to provide me with what I need to interface with the ship's control systems.

O'NEILL
Assuming he tells you.

CARTER
Well, why wouldn't he?

MITCHELL
If he knows he's not going anywhere…

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[O'Neill paces around Daniel's chair.]

DANIEL
That's crazy!

O'NEILL
That's what I said! It's crazy, it's nuts, it's whacko! But let's be honest, what isn't?

DANIEL
Jack, I'm the only one who should be going. It's too dangerous for anyone else.

O'NEILL
Not if you give me the intel we need!

DANIEL
It's my plan!

[O'Neill stops pacing and moves closer to Daniel.]

O'NEILL
It was a bad one! C'mon, Daniel! You had to know we weren't going to shut down that Supergate for you.

DANIEL

(speaking formally)

We had no choice.

[O'Neill rolls his eyes.]

O'NEILL

(annoyed)

Oh, now it's "we"!?

DANIEL

(frustrated)

You've been in my position before…well, not this one, but…similar!

O'NEILL
Yes, I'm sure I have. But my brain's been messed with so much over the years, I don't remember.

DANIEL

(suddenly realizing)

Wait a second, with your way, you still need to shut down the Supergate!

[O'Neill makes a face.]

O'NEILL
C'mon, where's the ship? How does Carter fly it? Give me any other intel I might need to make this op a success. C'mon!

[Daniel is ignoring him, so O'Neill crouches to make eye contact.]

O'NEILL

(coaxingly)

Trusting you.

[Daniel shakes the restraints of his chair and rolls his eyes at O'Neill.]

DANIEL

(bitingly)

Oh, yes. I really feel the faith.

O'NEILL
Well, now you have to trust us. Let us finish what you started.

[Daniel closes his eyes, then turns and looks at O'Neill.]

INT—SGC BRIEFING ROOM

[SG-1, minus Daniel, briefs Landry and Woolsey. O'Neill stands, leaning on one of the empty chairs.]

CARTER
The Ori ship containing Merlin's weapon is parked in orbit around a planet with a Gate.

MITCHELL
We gate to the planet, use rings to get aboard.

TEAL'C
There is a Prior in charge of the ship, but he preaches to the masses on the planet daily.

WOOLSEY
I thought only a Prior could fly one of their ships?

CARTER
The systems are activated using mind control, but Daniel's given me what I need to get around it.

VALA
He's also given us instructions on how to put the final pieces together.

LANDRY
Daedalus will be standing by in Pegasus to shut down the wormhole.

CARTER
We use the Ori ship to dial out, and we send the weapon through.

MITCHELL
But not before the Odyssey beams us off.

O'NEILL
Now that's a plan!

WOOLSEY
That depends entirely on Daniel Jackson's word.

MITCHELL
We will know whether he's on the level before we shut off the Supergate. So at this point, the only thing at risk…is us.

[Woolsey looks around at everyone, then grudgingly nods his acquiescence.]

INT—ODYSSEY SECURE ROOM

[Daniel rests with his eyes closed, meditating. He looks to the door. A moment later, it opens. Woolsey enters, leaving the door to the room open. The two guards remain outside. Daniel turns his head straight ahead again and closes his eyes.]

DANIEL

(dryly)

No gun. Hmph. Did you bring lethal injection, high voltage, or are you just going to have them beam me out into space?

WOOLSEY
I think you understand my position.

[Daniel faces Woolsey.]

DANIEL

(accusing)

I gave Jack the information you asked for.

WOOLSEY
And you will be frozen in stasis until such time that SG-1's mission is deemed successful.

DANIEL
I take it, then, you're not going to allow me to just…turn back into my old self.

WOOLSEY
If the intel turns out to be reliable, you will be unfrozen and allowed to resume transforming, if that indeed is going to happen.

DANIEL

(softly)

I see.

[Woolsey moves closer.]

WOOLSEY
I'm here out of respect for you. I wanted to explain personally that we're about to beam you into the Ancient pod in Antarctica.

[Daniel does not look at Woolsey; his jaw is set.]

WOOLSEY
Okay.

[Woolsey moves over to the wall intercom and keys it.]

WOOLSEY

(into intercom)

You're clear to beam the prisoner out now.

[Woolsey waits, but nothing happens. He keys the intercom again.]

WOOLSEY

(into intercom)

What's the hold up?

CREWMAN

(over intercom)

We're having some technical problems. We can't seem to get a lock.

[Woolsey sighs, then becomes alarmed as he looks at Daniel. Daniel's eyes are closed in concentration. Suddenly the restraints holding down his arms and legs release. He raises his arms with a determined look on his face. Woolsey backs against the wall. The two guards start to enter, aiming their weapons, but they are telekinetically pushed back into the corridor. Woolsey tries to run, but the doors seal shut before he can reach them. He turns to face Daniel, terrified. Daniel lifts Woolsey telekinetically a foot above the floor. Daniel walks over and smiles humorlessly at Woolsey.]

DANIEL
Not part of my plan.

INT—SGC BRIEFING ROOM

[O'Neill and Landry walk up the staircase from the control room to the briefing room and head towards Landry's office.]

O'NEILL
I've always been the one who "caused" the worry. Not the "worrier."

LANDRY
It's not easy. Don't second-guess yourself. This is the best possible course of action.

O'NEILL
Exactly! Action, good! Sitting around, bad.

LANDRY
Hey, if it makes you feel any better, I still worry sometimes too…about you.

O'NEILL
Well, thank you, sir.

LANDRY
Don't mention it.

[Behind them, Woolsey beams into the room. He is still speechless with fright. Landry and O'Neill look at Woolsey.]

O'NEILL
I thought we fixed this thing so that wouldn't happen anymore.

[Landry begins to laugh, then becomes concerned as O'Neill is beamed away.]

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[O'Neill is beamed into the forward part of the bridge, facing the window. Behind him, Daniel calmly sits in the commander's chair, his chin resting in his hand. The bridge is otherwise empty.]

O'NEILL
Daniel?

[O'Neill turns around to face Daniel.]

DANIEL
Jack.

O'NEILL

(feigning calm)

What's up?

DANIEL
Oh, I'm taking the ship.

O'NEILL
Oh, I see that.

[He looks around the empty bridge.]

DANIEL
Yeah, I-I've beamed the crew safely to the surface.

O'NEILL

(dryly)

Nice for them.

DANIEL
But as you've probably figured out by now, I'm going to need you.

O'NEILL

(sarcastically)

You know, I was just thinking how much I missed being needed.

EXT—SPACE, EARTH ORBIT

[Odyssey breaks orbit and enters hyperspace.]

EXT—SPACE

[An Ori warship is in orbit over an alien planet.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP RING ROOM

[The other four members of SG-1 ring aboard the warship, weapons at ready. They cautiously head out to the corridor.]

INT—ORI CORRIDOR

[The team heads out in a two by two pattern. Rounding a corner, they meet a patrol of four Ori warriors in full battle armor. Carter and Mitchell take positions on either side of the hall for cover. The Ori soldiers scatter into alcoves for limited cover and start firing their staffs.]

MITCHELL

(yelling over weapons fire)

All right fellas, here's the deal! We are commandeering this ship! We'd like for you to throw down your weapons and surrender, please!

[Mitchell peeks around the corner and is almost hit by a blast.]

MITCHELL
That's a no.

[He nods to Carter. Carter begins to fire her P-90. After a moment, Mitchell too fires, and they take out all four soldiers. SG-1 heads down the corridor, stepping over the soldier's bodies.]

MITCHELL
We asked nicely.

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

[Teal'c and Carter enter the empty room. Carter instantly moves to an access panel near the floor and starts to interface her laptop while Teal'c stands guard just outside.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

[Mitchell and Vala enter the chamber where Merlin's interface and the anti-Ori weapon components are kept. Vala moves to the weapon, checking it out, then over to a side table, where a number of crystals are laid out.]

VALA
Okay. Huh. This shouldn't be too bad.

MITCHELL
I don't know. For me, whenever there's "some assembly required", I inevitably find some part missing: a screw, widget, what have you.

VALA
Hmm. Well, according to Daniel's instructions, it all seems to be here.

[Mitchell opens a small box and takes out a red spherical jewel, the "Sangreal" stone.]

MITCHELL
Oh, well. I never follow instructions. Think that could be part of the problem?

[Vala plucks the jewel out of Mitchell's hand and carefully places it back in the box.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP CORRIDOR

[Teal'c patrols the hall, encountering more soldiers and downing them with his P-90. He returns to Carter.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

CARTER
We're clear?

TEAL'C
For the moment.

CARTER

Okay, I've locked out the rings and secured this level. We shouldn't have any more company.
(keying radio)

Hang on, guys. If this works…

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

CARTER

(continuing on radio)

…we're about to jump into hyperspace.

[As Mitchell watches, Vala continues to place crystals in a specified pattern in the center of the weapon.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Ori warship leaves orbit and enters hyperspace.]

EXT—SPACE

[Odyssey flies through hyperspace.]

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[O'Neill sits in one of the helm stations next to Daniel, absently flipping switches.]

O'NEILL

(sighing)

Yep, just like old times.

[Daniel looks over at O'Neill and smiles.]

O'NEILL
Except I'm here against my will, and you look like Marcel Marceau.

DANIEL

(agreeably)

Yeah, you know, some things change, but others stay the same.

O'NEILL
Very good. Why'd you bother giving me the intel if you were going to bust out anyway?

[Daniel clears his throat and turns his chair to look directly at O'Neill.]

DANIEL
Well, obviously I'm improvising at this point. I had no idea when or even if I was going to be able to overcome the effects of the anti-Prior device. Time was running out. Adria's gonna notice my absence and become suspicious. So sending the rest of SG-1 to get the device was my only choice at the time.

O'NEILL
Then why do this now?

DANIEL
Because I'm afraid the rest of the team won't be able to complete the mission without me.

O'NEILL

(snidely)

Oh. Aren't we full of ourselves?

DANIEL
That, and I wasn't about to let Woolsey freeze me.

O'NEILL
That I understand.

DANIEL

(nodding)

Yeah.

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

[Vala places one last crystal.]

VALA
Okay, I think that's about it.

MITCHELL
Hang on.

[He reaches over and grabs a leftover crystal with a blue jewel on it and shows it to Vala.]

MITCHELL
What's this?

[Vala glances over.]

VALA

(dismissively)

Oh, I'm not sure about that one.

MITCHELL
See! There is always a widget left over.

VALA
I thought you were always one short?

MITCHELL
Well you'd think both was impossible, but it's not.

VALA
Right. Actually, I'm pretty sure that's the timing crystal that sets the detonation of the weapon five minutes after it's inserted.

[Mitchell looks at Vala, and she gives a confident nod. He puts the crystal down next to the weapon as she sighs in satisfaction.]

MITCHELL

Right. Hold on that.
(keying radio)

Carter, status?

CARTER

(over radio)

Vala, Cam, we're moments from exiting hyperspace.

[Vala picks up the red "Sangreal" jewel and holds it delicately between her finger and thumb.]

MITCHELL

(into radio)

Roger that. We're almost done here…Check that, uh, Vala's almost done. I still have my doubts.

[Vala looks affronted. Mitchell smiles at her and gestures to the device. She gently sets the Sangreal in the opening where the four sides of the device draw close. The stone begins to hang suspended in mid-air. Vala releases her hold and she and Mitchell watch as the red jewel begins to glow and hum.]

MITCHELL
And that means…?

VALA
That means the weapon's ready to be activated.

[Vala starts to frantically look around, mostly directly her attention above her.]

MITCHELL
What?

VALA
Oh, I was just wondering if an Ascended Being was going to swoop down and…take it away.

[She mimes someone running off with her fingers.]

MITCHELL
I guess they don't mind us doing their dirty work for 'em.

VALA
Or…

MITCHELL
Or what?

VALA
Or there's no point because I've assembled it wrongly, and it's not going to work.

[Mitchell glares at Vala. She smiles at him.]

EXT—SPACE, NEAR SUPERGATE

[The Ori warship comes out of hyperspace.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

[Teal'c looks toward the front window, concerned. Carter continues to study her laptop.]

TEAL'C
Colonel Carter?

CARTER
Yeah, I see. It just came up on the ship's sensors.

[Carter keys her radio and steps toward Teal'c. She too looks out the window while still holding her laptop.]

CARTER

(into radio)

Cam? Vala? We have a problem.

EXT—SPACE

[Their warship approaches the active Supergate. In front of it, another Ori warship lies in wait.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

MITCHELL

(into radio)

What's it doing?

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

CARTER

(into radio, puzzled)

I-it seems to be just sitting there, blocking our way. I'm trying to raise shields.

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

[Four armed soldiers enter the room. Mitchell and Vala instantly raise their weapons in a standoff.]

VALA
Hi there.

MITCHELL

(keying radio)

Carter, I thought you sealed off this level and locked out the rings.

INT—ORI WARSHIP

[Carter and Teal'c's weapons lie on the floor of the command chair dais. Carter and Teal'c stand next to it. Teal'c's hands are clasped behind his back. Carter no longer has her laptop; her hands are raised in surrender. She keys the radio clasped to her vest.]

CARTER

(into radio)

Me too.

[Adria stands in doorway, glaring at the pair. Her eyes flame.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Odyssey exits hyperspace and instantly cloaks.]

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[From the bridge window, the two warships and the Supergate are clearly visible.]

DANIEL
I was afraid of that. Adria must have anticipated my plan.

O'NEILL
They're gonna detect us.

DANIEL
We're cloaked.

[O'Neill does a double-take.]

O'NEILL
This ship doesn't have that.

DANIEL
It does now. Having a ZPM helps.

[O'Neill looks around the bridge.]

DANIEL
When the time comes, give the order to Daedalus.

[Daniel stands and walks over to the forward section of the bridge.]

O'NEILL
We'll see.

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

[Adria looks over to the other side of the command chair dais. An instant later, Daniel beams in at that spot, his hands unthreateningly behind his back. He smiles at Adria. She steps forward.]

ADRIA

(furious)

I should never have trusted you!

DANIEL

They're about to shut down the Supergate and allow our ships through. They've assembled the weapon, and the Ancients didn't interfere.
(turning to Carter and Teal'c)

Right?

[Carter and Teal'c are staring back at him with expressions of shock and betrayal. Adria watches their reactions suspiciously.]

DANIEL

(persistent)

You did exactly as I said, right?

CARTER
Daniel, what are you doing?

DANIEL

(to Adria)

We can destroy the Ancients right now, and the Ori won't even have to fight. I've done all of this for you.

[Adria's eyes narrow. She moves closer to Daniel, shaking her head in confusion.]

ADRIA
Your mind is closed to me.

DANIEL
Yeah.

[Daniel's right hand whips in front of him, and he blasts Adria with energy. She is thrown back and collapses to the floor unconscious. Taking advantage of the distraction, Teal'c grabs his P-90 and immediately points it at Daniel.]

CARTER
What the hell is going on?

DANIEL

(breathing with effort)

Eh, sorry about out that. I…had to be sure this…was working on her first.

[Daniel reveals his other hand from behind his back. It holds the anti-Prior device, which is active.]

CARTER
You got past her personal shield!

[Teal'c stops aiming his weapon at Daniel. Daniel smiles at them.]

DANIEL

(out of breath)

Yeah. That took a lot.

[Daniel crumples, still holding the device close to him as Carter helps maneuver him into the command chair. She takes the anti-Prior device from him.]

TEAL'C
Are you all right, Daniel Jackson?

DANIEL

(gasping)

Yeah. Little dizzy. Look, I don't have much time left. Go arm the device.

[Teal'c and Carter exchange wary looks. Daniel notices.]

DANIEL
Jack's on board Odyssey. He's gonna shut down the Gate. Now go!

[Carter sets the anti-Prior device down and grabs her weapons. She and Teal'c leave. Daniel pants and struggles to regain his strength.]

DANIEL

(into radio)

Jack, give the command.

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[O'Neill sits in the helm chair. He takes no action, his expression calculating as he listens to Daniel's transmission. Daniel's labored breaths are clearly audible, and his voice is weak.]

DANIEL

(desperately)

Please!…I'm running out of strength to do this.

[O'Neill sighs. After a moment, he keys the radio.]

O'NEILL
Daedalus, this is General Jack O'Neill.

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

[Teal'c and Carter zat the Ori soldiers facing Vala and Mitchell.]

MITCHELL
So, what's going on?

CARTER
Daniel's flying the ship.

VALA

(surprised)

Daniel?

TEAL'C
Mmm. He wishes us to arm the weapon.

CARTER
General O'Neill's on board the Odyssey.

VALA
And…?

CARTER
Do it.

[Vala nods. She goes over to the weapon, and replaces a crystal with the timer crystal. All the crystals pulse with a blue light.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Supergate disengages.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

[Daniel concentrates.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Supergate begins to power up.]

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[O'Neill approaches the front window, watching the Supergate activate.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP CORRIDOR

[The rest of SG-1 runs through the corridors.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Supergate kawhooshes. Daniel's warship passes the other Ori vessel and heads straight for the Supergate wormhole.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

[Daniel is slumped over in the command chair unconscious: his head bowed, hands clasping the armrests. His hair coloring suddenly changes from white to brown; his skin tone turning back to his original form. The team enters. Vala crouches by Adria's side. Carter rushes to Daniel, gently tilting his head back. She sees he is no longer a Prior.]

[The ship continues to head toward the Supergate.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP CHAMBER

[The pulse of the crystals begins to increase.]

INT—ORI WARSHIP BRIDGE

[Mitchell checks his watch.]

MITCHELL
We gotta go!

CARTER
Sir, if you can hear me, we need to beam out now!

VALA
What about Adria?

[SG-1 is beamed away. Adria remains, unconscious on the floor.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Ori warship enters the Supergate. After it is gone, the wormhole deactivates.]

INT—ODYSSEY SICK BAY

[Daniel, dressed in blue hospital scrubs, lies on one of the beds under the covers, his eyes closed. O'Neill and the rest of SG-1, minus Carter, surround his bedside. Daniel slowly awakens. O'Neill leans forward and tousles his hair.]

O'NEILL
Hey, sleepyhead! What took you so long?

[Daniel stares back at O'Neill, wide-eyed.]

DANIEL
What happened?

O'NEILL

(deadpan)

Nothin'. Why?

MITCHELL
We armed the weapon. You dialed the Gate and sent the Ori ship through.

TEAL'C
Assuming it is you.

[Daniel thinks for a moment.]

DANIEL
No, it's me. Merlin's gone. He sacrificed himself for this to work.

O'NEILL
Yeah? Prove it.

[Daniel lifts his hand and waves his first two fingers at O'Neill. O'Neill looks around blankly as Daniel turns to the others.]

O'NEILL
What the hell was that?

DANIEL

If I was Merlin, you would know.
(to Vala)

What about Adria?

VALA
Still on the ship.

MITCHELL
All right, here's a question. How do we know it worked?

DANIEL
Oh, we don't. Not yet.

O'NEILL
I think if it did work, the Ancients would feel obligated to…give us a fruit basket…or, uh, like a gift certificate, or…so-something like that.

[O'Neill's voice trails off as the team exchange looks.]

VALA
Maybe the reason why they let us do it is because they knew it wouldn't work.

DANIEL
Or maybe because they knew it would and wanted it to. There's no point in guessing.

TEAL'C
Even if it is successful, there are still many Priors with great power and vast armies of warriors bent on converting this galaxy. It will be very difficult to convince them their gods are dead.

VALA
If they're dead.

[Teal'c nods, conceding the point. Mitchell moves to the intercom and activates it.]

MITCHELL

(into intercom)

Carter, Sunshine is awake.

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[Carter sits at a helm station, alone on the bridge.]

CARTER
That's good. Is he okay?

MITCHELL

(over intercom)

Well, he's grumpy.

CARTER
Can you ask him how he managed to cloak this ship?

INT—ODYSSEY SICK BAY

[Mitchell turns to Daniel. Daniel shrugs, raising his eyebrows in ignorance.]

MITCHELL

(into intercom)

He said magicians don't reveal their secrets.

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

MITCHELL

(continuing)

Hey, is that Ori ship still hanging around out there?

CARTER
Yeah, it's still out there. I sent a message to Earth telling them that we were going…

[A strange buzzing can be heard. Carter looks alarmed.]

CARTER
Uh, guys? You better get up here.

[She moves to the front window.]

EXT—SPACE

[The Supergate activates.]

INT—ODYSSEY BRIDGE

[The rest of SG-1 and O'Neill join Carter on the bridge.]

CARTER
Incoming wormhole.

[The team watches as six warships come through the Supergate to join the one already there.]

O'NEILL

(sarcastically)

Yeah. I think that went well.

MITCHELL
We knew eliminating the Ori might not stop their followers.

DANIEL
I still think it was the right thing to do.

MITCHELL
We may have made things worse right now. But in the long run, it could be our only chance to win the war.

EXT—SPACE

[The Supergate deactivates as the seven Ori warships jump into hyperspace.]

FADE OUT

END CREDITS

Transcribed for Stargate Solutions by Aurora Novarum, February 2007

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--Aurora Novarum 16:13, 10 February 2007 (PST)