SGA 5.08 "The Queen" Transcript
Episode Guide
SGA 5.08 "The Queen" Episode Guide
Précis
Teyla poses as Todd’s Queen to represent his hive in negotiations with an allied hive, but tension escalates as the alliance’s territories are threatened by another Wraith hive.
Guide | Transcript
Transcript
PREVIOUSLY ON STARGATE ATLANTIS
[Excerpts from 1.18 "The Gift", 4.08 "The Seer", 4.11 "Be All My Sins Remembered", 4.19 "Kindred Part 2", and 1.02 "The Rising Part 2".]
TEASER
EXT—SPACE
[A puddle jumper flies through an incoming active Spacegate.]
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
[Sheppard's team and Keller are inside.]
MCKAY
I still say we should've brought backup. Another jumper or a marine unit, something.
TEYLA
This is intended to be a diplomatic mission, Rodney. What kind of message would that send?
MCKAY
Well, a strong one, hopefully.
SHEPPARD
(firmly)
Yeah, everybody's going to be fine if they don't panic.
MCKAY
Easier said than done.
SHEPPARD
There they are.
[A hive ship appears through the window.]
KELLER
(gasping)
My God. How big is that thing?
SHEPPARD
Never seen a hive in space, huh?
KELLER
(panicky)
I've never seen one, period. I mean, I've seen video logs, but never in person.
MCKAY
(absently)
Well, you never forget your first.
RONON
They know we're here.
[The console beeps.]
MCKAY
Apparently. We're receiving a transmission.
[Sheppard peeks over to McKay's console.]
SHEPPARD
Docking instructions.
MCKAY
(sarcastic)
What, no "hello, greetings, weary travelers?"
SHEPPARD
Guess not. So much for the red carpet.
EXT—SPACE
[The jumper flies into the hive docking bay.]
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
[The team look distinctly nervous and uncomfortable as they land inside the hive ship.]
KELLER
So, what happens now?
MCKAY
Well, if history has taught us anything, this is the part where we get double-crossed and taken prisoner.
TEYLA
That will not happen this time, Rodney. We were invited, remember?
MCKAY
(grumbling)
And that makes a difference?
[There is a pounding on the outer door. Sheppard grimaces.]
SHEPPARD
Right on cue.
[They all get up and head to the back. Sheppard hits the button to lower the door and raises his rifle. Three Wraith guards are standing outside, aiming weapons at the team—a standoff.]
SHEPPARD
This looks a little familiar.
END TEASER
OPENING CREDITS
TODD
(to his men)
Lower your weapons.
[The soldiers comply.]
TODD
(to team)
My apologies. You understand. You can't be too careful. Welcome to my ship.
[He holds his hands out in a grand gesture.]
INT—WRAITH CONFERENCE ROOM
[Todd leads the team to a room furnished with a long wooden table and several wooden chairs.]
TODD
This is my second-in-command. I've asked him to be a part of these discussions. Please…sit.
[They cautiously take seats around the table.]
SHEPPARD
Hmm. Fruit bowl. Nice touch.
TODD
Well, we picked them up on our travels. I thought it would make our discussions more…comfortable. I hope they prove as delicious as the farmers who grew them.
[McKay looks nonplussed and drops the fruit he holds.]
SHEPPARD
All right, let's just get this over with.
TODD
So, I understand you have a proposal. A breakthrough of some kind?
SHEPPARD
(nodding to Keller)
This is Doctor Keller. She's our Chief Medical Officer, and she's going to explain everything to you.
KELLER
(clears throat nervously)
Well, um…uh, as you may already know, we recently stumbled across a lab belonging to Michael—the Wraith that we—
TODD
I know who he is.
KELLER
Uh—of course you do.
TODD
Word of your success against him spread rapidly among my kind. We are very grateful.
SHEPPARD
Trust me, we didn't do it for you.
KELLER
Anyway, we recovered a database from his lab that allowed us to continue his research into—
TODD
(sharply interrupting)
For what purpose?
KELLER
We've come up with a gene therapy that alters Wraith DNA in a small but significant way. In a nutshell, we think we can make it so that you, and any other Wraith we treat, will never need to feed on humans again.
[Todd and his second in command exchange sharp looks.]
WRAITH SECOND
This is absurd.
KELLER
Well, actually, it's…not as big of a change as you might think. Your bodies already contain all the organs necessary to digest food.
SHEPPARD
Here. Try this.
[Sheppard tosses Todd a piece of fruit.]
TODD
If I consume this, it may give me a moment's pleasure, but it will not sustain me.
[He sets the fruit firmly down on the table.]
KELLER
But that can change. At least…in theory.
WRAITH SECOND
Why would we want this? Of what benefit is it?
SHEPPARD
Well, think about it. If you put yourself on regular food, you could give up all those tiresome cullings.
TEYLA
It would give you a significant advantage over other hives.
SHEPPARD
Not to mention, I could stop waiting for the chance to kill you…in theory.
WRAITH SECOND
Our current feeding process gives us strength, our ability to heal, our longevity.
KELLER
Well, um, we're not entirely sure how this change would affect your, um…gifts. They may continue, although possibly in a diminished form.
TODD
Possibly?
KELLER
It's difficult to know from lab tests. We can't be sure until we administer it to, um, live subjects.
MCKAY
Well, let's not forget that Michael spread the modified Hoffan drug to dozens of worlds, possibly more. I mean, no one knows for sure, right? Which means that every time you feed? You're taking a risk.
SHEPPARD
Bottom line is, there's not enough food to go around. That's why you Wraith are at each other's throats, so…here's your chance.
[Todd considers this.]
EXT—SPACE
[The hive ship floats in space.]
INT—WRAITH CONFERENCE ROOM
[Todd and his second are now gone. The Atlantis team waits in the room. Ronon paces.]
RONON
This is wrong. We shouldn't be here.
MCKAY
I don't know, from where I was sitting, things seemed to go pretty well.
SHEPPARD
(flatly)
Yeah.
KELLER
(curious)
You don't seem too happy about it.
SHEPPARD
I was just expecting a little more resistance.
KELLER
Well, he hasn't said yes yet.
SHEPPARD
Yeah, but something makes me think he wants to.
TEYLA
And why not? It is a reasonable offer.
RONON
Why are we thinking of ways to fix them when we should be thinking of ways to kill them?
MCKAY
We've been trying to do that for four years. They're still here!
TEYLA
(firmly)
The Wraith may not deserve our consideration. But as John pointed out, we're not doing this for them.
SHEPPARD
There's something going on here. Something he's not telling us.
RONON
(sarcastic)
What a surprise.
[Sheppard and Teyla stand as footsteps approach. Ronon turns and primes his weapon as Todd arrives. Ronon lowers his gun.]
TODD
I'm sorry. Am I disturbing you?
[Sheppard gives a falsely bright smile and gestures a welcome.]
SHEPPARD
Come in.
TODD
I have…considered your offer.
SHEPPARD
That was fast.
TODD
I believe your idea has merit…if you can make the treatment work.
KELLER
It'll work.
TODD
Of course, converting a single hive would be pointless. It would make little difference to the humans of this galaxy and would make us pariahs amongst our own kind.
[While Todd speaks, Ronon lounges in a chair in an exaggeratedly casual gesture. He never takes his eyes off the Wraith, nor his hand off his gun.]
MCKAY
Wait a minute. I thought you worked with a whole group of hives.
TODD
I do, but I may have…exaggerated my position within the alliance.
SHEPPARD
He doesn't have the clout.
RONON
(sneering)
Then he's no good to us.
TODD
There's only one you need to convince. Among all the queens in the alliance, one sits above the rest. We call her…the Primary.
MCKAY
The uber-queen?
TODD
Convince her, and the rest will fall into line.
SHEPPARD
Then convince her!
TODD
She will only speak with another queen.
TEYLA
And your queen was killed last year in the skies above Atlantis.
TODD
Regrettably, yes. But the Primary does not know this.
SHEPPARD
(incredulous)
You…you bluffed your way into the alliance and convinced them you still have a queen?
TODD
They would not have accepted me otherwise. Up to now, I've been able to maintain this subterfuge, but a face-to-face meeting…that would be difficult. In fact, there is only one person who could help me.
[He looks pointedly at Teyla, who stares back at him in surprise.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, DAY
INT—SHEPPARD'S QUARTERS
[Teyla and Sheppard are in his quarters.]
SHEPPARD
This is crazy.
TEYLA
Believe me, this is not a decision I am taking lightly.
SHEPPARD
Do you realize what he's asking you to do?
TEYLA
Doctor Keller assures me that the procedure is completely reversible and will have no lasting ill effects.
SHEPPARD
I'm not talking about the procedure.
TEYLA
(quietly)
I know.
SHEPPARD
Look, even if this works, even if all the Wraith stop feeding, you think they're gonna become nice and friendly overnight? No. They're going to have a massive technological advantage.
TEYLA
You're suggesting they will enslave the people of this galaxy rather than feed on them?
SHEPPARD
We've seen the same thing happen in our galaxy.
TEYLA
You didn't voice this objection before.
SHEPPARD
Nobody was asking you to risk your life.
TEYLA
My Wraith DNA makes me the only possible candidate. Anyone else would be detected by the queen immediately.
SHEPPARD
Well, that's fine. But-but my question is, why now? The Wraith are busy killing each other. Why don't we just sit back and watch?
TEYLA
Eventually, one faction will emerge victorious, and then everything will go back to the way it was.
SHEPPARD
But maybe not for a while, so we can afford to wait.
TEYLA
And if Todd's alliance is destroyed? We may never have another opportunity like this again. I admit, this may not solve the Wraith problem once and for all. But there are people alive today who will be culled in the coming weeks and months. And if I can save even some of them…I have to try. If not for myself, then for my son.
BANKS
(over intercom)
Colonel Sheppard, come in.
SHEPPARD
This is Sheppard, go ahead.
INT—ATLANTIS CONTROL ROOM
BANKS
(into radio)
Mr. Woolsey wanted me to inform you sir…he's here.
[Banks looks down to the Stargate, where Todd, escorted by an Atlantis team, arrives through the active wormhole.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY SURGICAL WARD
[Teyla sits up on a surgical bed, dressed in a hospital gown. Keller is in scrubs beside her. Other infirmary staff prepare equipment.]
KELLER
You sure you're ready for this?
TEYLA
(nodding)
As ready as I'll ever be.
KELLER
I'm sorry. I…I feel like you're being pressured into this because of my research.
TEYLA
I am not being pressured into anything. And your research may save thousands, even millions of lives. Remember that.
KELLER
Right.
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR
[Todd and his guard escort approach the infirmary. Ronon blocks his path, glowering menacingly at Todd.]
TODD
Can I help you?
RONON
Just remember…if anything happens to her, there won't be anywhere in the galaxy you can hide.
TODD
Ah. Is that all?
[Ronon sneers in challenge, but steps aside.]
TODD
Right.
[Todd continues on his way.]
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY SURGICAL WARD
[Todd enters. Teyla lies on the table, still conscious.]
TODD
How is my patient?
KELLER
She's fine.
TODD
Very well. Let's get started.
KELLER
(to Teyla)
Don't worry. He's just here as a technical advisor. I'm going to be performing the surgery.
(to staff)
All right, we're ready.
[The anesthesiologist injects a syringe into her line. Teyla glances towards the observation room and breathes deeply. The surgery continues. Todd giving advice as they work and study monitors. Sheppard, McKay, and Ronon watch worriedly. McKay has to turn away. Todd nods, as does Keller as they work on Teyla.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, NIGHT
INT—ATLANTIS CORRIDOR OUTSIDE INFIRMARY
[Sheppard sits on a bench. McKay and Ronon pace.]
MCKAY
When are we going to get to see her?
SHEPPARD
Give it some time. Just relax.
MCKAY
I can't. I've had, like, three cups of coffee. I'm completely wired.
RONON
(deadpan)
Really? I hadn't noticed.
[The door opens, and Keller steps out. She is in her usual Atlantis uniform now.]
KELLER
All right. You can see her now.
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[The trio follow Keller to Teyla's bed. They stare at her, all looking disturbed.]
TEYLA
How do I look?
[Teyla speaks in a Wraith reverberating tone. Her face is mottled green with slits in the cheekbones. Her eyes are reptilian and yellow. Her hair is black. She looks like a Wraith.]
EXT—SPACE
[Todd's hive ship floats in space.]
INT—QUEEN'S THRONE ROOM
TODD
Now, assume your throne.
[Teyla unsteadily moves to the throne. She sits in it carefully, as if it might bite, then shifts in it, trying to get comfortable.]
TODD
(angrily)
Are you trying to get us both killed?!
TEYLA
(puzzled)
I do not understand.
TODD
At the first sign of deception, the Primary will not hesitate to slit our throats!
TEYLA
(standing)
You said she would sense my Wraith DNA.
TODD
(disgusted)
It is not your "DNA" that concerns me. It is your manner. Your bearing. You project apprehension.
TEYLA
Well, given the circumstances…
TODD
It may be understandable, but it is not acceptable! Above all, you must never show weakness. Now…again!
[Teyla juts out her chin in challenge.]
INT—WRAITH CONFERENCE ROOM
[The rest of Teyla's team waits in the room.]
MCKAY
How long is this going to take anyway?
SHEPPARD
Until Todd's satisfied she can pass as a Wraith queen. You know, personally, I'm not inclined to rush this thing.
MCKAY
She's already too convincing if you ask me. Creeps me out.
SHEPPARD
(squirming)
She's still Teyla…underneath all that.
RONON
Maybe that's the problem.
SHEPPARD
Look, I'm not any crazier about this than you guys. But the fact is, Todd's putting his life on the line, too. I don't think he'd go in there with her if he didn't think she could pull this off.
[Todd enters.]
SHEPPARD
Where's Teyla?
TODD
Resting. You'll be pleased to know we've received word back from the Primary's hive. We've been instructed to meet with them at their current location.
MCKAY
So, what's the plan?
TODD
Once we arrive, we make contact with the ship and make our way over. Then Teyla will put forward my proposal.
MCKAY
Oh, your proposal?
TODD
Believe me, the less the Primary knows about my dealings with the humans of Atlantis, the better.
SHEPPARD
(cautiously)
If she doesn't know it's coming from us, what are the chances she's going to buy it?
TODD
Our alliance has recently been dealt a number of setbacks.
RONON
(grinning)
You're getting your asses kicked.
TODD
Indeed. Although the Primary would never admit it out loud. But the one thing stronger than her pride is her instinct for survival.
[He steps closer to Ronon, intimidating.]
EXT—SPACE
[Todd's ship drops out of hyperspace. The Primary's hive ship already waits there.]
INT—HIVE SHIP BRIDGE
[The second-in-command is at the bridge controls. Teyla stands, looking nervous. Todd walks over, studying her bearing.]
TODD
Don't be nervous.
TEYLA
(trying to sound haughty)
I am not.
[Todd studies Teyla for moment, then nods for the communication to be engaged. The Primary queen appears on the screen.]
PRIMARY
(on video)
So…at long last we meet.
TEYLA
Indeed.
PRIMARY
Many among my crew were beginning to think you didn't exist.
TEYLA
You must point them out to me, so that I may remove all doubt from their minds.
PRIMARY
(chuckling)
That will no longer be necessary. Make your way to my ship.
(hissing)
And do not keep me waiting again.
[The video-link shuts down.]
TODD
She likes you.
TEYLA
(dubious)
You think so?
TODD
It was as warm a reception as we could expect.
INT—WRAITH BRIEFING ROOM
[Teyla rejoins the rest of her team.]
SHEPPARD
How'd it go?
TEYLA
Apparently, quite well. They are preparing a shuttle to take me over to the other hive.
SHEPPARD
You know, we can pull the plug anytime you want. You just give us the word.
TEYLA
No. We've come this far. I intend to go through with this.
MCKAY
Well, we'll be right here. If anything goes wrong…
(clicks his tongue)
…we'll get you out.
SHEPPARD
(reassuring)
But nothing's going to.
MCKAY
Well, of course not, but I'm just saying, if it does…
SHEPPARD
(warning)
Rodney…
MCKAY
(meekly)
Which it won't.
RONON
Hey…just be careful over there.
[Teyla nods at Ronon. Looks at the others, then leaves.]
EXT—SPACE
[A small Wraith ship flies from one hive to the other.]
INT—PRIMARY HIVE SHIP CORRIDOR
[A bald Wraith and several soldier Wraith stand in the corridor. A door opens and Teyla and Todd enter. The bald Wraith bows low.]
BALD WRAITH
Welcome to my ship.
[Teyla looks around warily.]
TEYLA
Where is your queen?
BALD WRAITH
You will meet her in time.
(to soldiers)
Inform the bridge they're onboard. Take us to hyperspace.
[One of the soldiers walks away.]
TODD
This was not part of the agreement.
BALD WRAITH
You did not expect us to conduct this meeting here, within weapons range of your hive.
TODD
We are part of the same alliance…unless you do not trust us.
BALD WRAITH
I make it a practice to trust no one I do not know. It is how the queen wishes it. Follow me…please.
[He leads the way. Todd bows to let Teyla walk first, then follows.]
EXT—SPACE
[The Primary's hive ship jumps into hyperspace.]
INT—TODD'S SHIP BRIDGE
[Sheppard, Ronon, and McKay walk into the bridge.]
SHEPPARD
What's going on?
WRAITH SECOND
The Primary's hive just went into hyperspace.
MCKAY
What?!
SHEPPARD
That wasn't part of the deal.
WRAITH SECOND
No, it was not.
RONON
Where'd they go?
WRAITH SECOND
I do not know. There is no way to track them.
RONON
(drawing his weapon)
He's lying!
[Wraith soldiers draw their own weapons and point them at Ronon, McKay, and Sheppard before the other two can draw arms. McKay looks around nervously, raising his hands unthreateningly.]
MCKAY
Uh, Ronon?
WRAITH SECOND
I assure you, I know nothing of this.
SHEPPARD
Ronon…
[Ronon glances around, then stands down.]
WRAITH SECOND
It appears we have no choice but to trust each other.
INT—PRIMARY THRONE ROOM
[The bald Wraith leads Teyla and Todd to the empty throne room.]
BALD WRAITH
The queen shall see you shortly.
[He leaves them alone.]
TEYLA
What have you done?
TODD
(looking around nervously, speaking low)
I swear, I did not expect this to happen. We're in no danger. If the queen did not believe us, we'd be dead already.
TEYLA
And if she begins to suspect? We are trapped on this ship.
TODD
Everything will be fine, provided you continue to play your part. We must proceed as planned.
[A door opens, and the Primary steps inside.]
PRIMARY
(sharply)
What is he doing here?
[Todd bows low and steps back.]
TEYLA
I…thought his presence would be useful, as he is the one you have been dealing with up until now.
PRIMARY
(angry)
I do not like surprises.
TEYLA
(sharply)
Nor do I. And yet you are the one who took your ship to hyperspace the moment we stepped aboard.
PRIMARY
If you were in my position, you might understand the need for such precautions.
[Teyla pauses for a few moments.]
TEYLA
Very well.
[The Primary calms, sparing a sidelong glance at Todd, who averts his eyes in a supplicant gesture.]
PRIMARY
(to Teyla)
Come. Let's sit.
[She leads the way. Todd draws a knife from his shirt cuff and attacks the Primary from behind, slicing her in the jugular. The Primary grasps her throat and collapses, trying to breathe.]
TEYLA
(panicked)
What are you doing?!
[The Primary struggles, activating an alarm amulet that shrieks loudly before breathing her last.]
TEYLA
What is the meaning of this?!
[Todd places the knife into Teyla's hand.]
TODD
Forgive me…but this is the way it must be. You must say that you killed her.
TEYLA
Are you insane?!
TODD
This is how it is done with our kind. This is how power changes hands.
TEYLA
But I do not want—
TODD
Listen to me! The crew will not be happy, but nor will they wish to be without a queen. You caught her off-guard. Many will perceive that to mean that she was growing weak. All you need to do is convince them that you are a capable replacement, and they will accept you.
TEYLA
And if I can't?
TODD
Then we're both dead.
[The bald Wraith and several soldiers enter.]
BALD WRAITH
What is this?!
TEYLA
I have taken what is rightfully mine.
[The wraith goes to the queen and deactivates the alarm.]
BALD WRAITH
(grieving)
You killed her!
TEYLA
Yes, and you are the better for it.
BALD WRAITH
You will die for this!
[He pulls his stunner.]
TEYLA
How dare you point a weapon at your queen!
BALD WRAITH
This was my queen!
TEYLA
Not anymore.
[Todd steps in the line of fire.]
TODD
She was growing weak. She no longer had full control over the alliance. If you can't see that, you're a fool.
[Teyla comes up behind Todd, strikes him, and kicks him behind the knees, wrapping her knife hand around his throat as he falls to his knees.]
TEYLA
Did I ask you to speak for me?!
TODD
No, my queen.
[The bald wraith studies this exchange with interest.]
TEYLA
Wag your tongue like that again, and I will remove it. Is that understood?
TODD
Yes, my queen!
[Teyla releases him and tosses the knife away imperiously.]
TEYLA
(to bald wraith)
Now, drop us out of hyperspace and run a full diagnostic. I wish to know the state of my new flagship…And have this…thing removed from my sight.
[They look to the Primary's corpse.]
BALD WRAITH
(hesitantly)
Yes, my queen.
EXT—SPACE
[The Primary hive drops out of hyperspace near a nebula.]
INT—PRIMARY THRONE ROOM
[Teyla paces the room alone. Todd enters.]
TODD
I have surveyed the crew. You'll be pleased to know they were entirely fooled!
TEYLA
What were you thinking?! You put both our lives at terrible risk!
TODD
I know. If you'll allow me to explain—
TEYLA
How could you do this?
TODD
It was necessary. The former queen was never going to accept your proposal.
TEYLA
And so you…killed her and forced me to take the blame.
TODD
If I had taken the blame, I would have been killed and you would've been held captive. That was not the desired outcome. You must understand, our culture is different from your own. We govern ourselves by different rules. It was important for you to claim ownership of the act of killing the queen.
TEYLA
(fiercely)
You should have informed me of your intention to make me queen of this hive.
[Todd bows mockingly.]
TODD
Perhaps, but I doubt you would have gone through with it had you known.
TEYLA
You're right. It was a foolish, reckless plan.
TODD
Most Wraith seek to be ruled. They fear being without a queen. I knew that if you presented yourself as a viable substitute, most of them would just…fall in line.
TEYLA
"Most of them?"
TODD
The point is that we have achieved what we set out to do. You are now effectively in control of the alliance. We may now implement Doctor Keller's plan without hindrance.
TEYLA
Then there is no further need for us to continue this charade. Take me back to your ship!
TODD
Soon, but first, you must allow some time for order to be restored—for things to return to normal. Once they do, you may take your leave. And no one on this crew will be the wiser.
[Teyla stares at Todd wide eyed.]
INT—TODD'S SHIP CORRIDOR OUTSIDE BRIDGE
RONON
I still say this was a setup.
SHEPPARD
I don't know. Kenny seemed pretty surprised when that ship disappeared.
MCKAY
Who?
SHEPPARD
Kenny, the second in command.
MCKAY
Well, since when did we start calling him that?
RONON
(ignoring McKay)
Maybe he wasn't in on it.
SHEPPARD
I don't know, if Todd wanted to kidnap Teyla, he would've done it the second we arrived. It doesn't add up.
MCKAY
Seriously, the next time we have to name one of these guys, we should take a vote.
[Ronon and Sheppard glance at McKay, then continue their conversation.]
RONON
So, what are we going to do?
[Sheppard shrugs.]
MCKAY
We can't stay here, we're stuck on a hive, surrounded by Wraith. Not exactly our strongest position.
SHEPPARD
All I got is a jumper. Where do you want to go?
MCKAY
Well, we get to a 'gate, we gate back to Atlantis, and then we…figure out where they took Teyla.
SHEPPARD
How, exactly?
MCKAY
(weakly)
Okay, so I haven't quite worked out the details yet. But, uh…
[Todd's second in command, "Kenny", enters.]
KENNY
We have something.
[He leads them to the bridge.]
INT—TODD'S SHIP BRIDGE
KENNY
The Primary's hive has dropped out of hyperspace.
SHEPPARD
How do you know?
KENNY
We're receiving a signal.
[He pulls up a star chart with a blinking signal in one section.]
MCKAY
It's Todd's subspace transmitter.
KENNY
They're in empty space on the edge of a large nebula.
MCKAY
Well, what are they doing out there?
SHEPPARD
Who cares? This is our chance. Let's go after them.
KENNY
I've already plotted the course. But you should know that it will arouse suspicion for us to arrive unannounced.
SHEPPARD
Well, let's worry about that later. For now, this is the closest thing they've got to a distress signal.
EXT—SPACE
[Todd's ship enters hyperspace.]
INT—PRIMARY THRONE ROOM
[The bald wraith enters the throne room, where Teyla sits on her throne, deep in a low conversation with Todd.]
BALD WRAITH
I'm sorry to disturb you, my queen. We've received an urgent report.
[He holds out a Wraith tablet. Todd snatches it away.]
TODD
(challenging)
You intend to make her read it?
BALD WRAITH
A hive belonging to another alliance has been detected above one of our feeding grounds not far from here.
TODD
Have you tried to contact them?
BALD WRAITH
They are not responding.
TEYLA
(dismissively)
Dispatch the closest hive to investigate.
BALD WRAITH
We are the closest hive. It falls upon us to intercept.
TEYLA
(firmly)
We must remain here.
[The bald Wraith exchanges a puzzled look with Todd. Todd turns to Teyla and bows.]
TODD
(with warning look)
My queen…perhaps we should discuss this in private.
[Teyla sighs and rolls her eyes.]
TEYLA
Leave us.
[The Bald Wraith bows and takes his leave.]
INT—PRIMARY HIVE SHIP CORRIDOR
[The Bald Wraith pauses outside the door, seeming to consider these events.]
INT—PRIMARY QUEEN THRONE ROOM
TODD
(speaking low)
We must respond to this. To do otherwise will read as weakness. The crew will not understand.
TEYLA
(fiercely)
Then let them be confused.
TODD
Spoken like a true queen. But you risk breeding suspicion. For the moment, they believe you and are prepared to serve you. But if you break that trust by making irrational decisions, they will…quickly fall away from you.
TEYLA
What about your ship? It is probably already on its way.
TODD
They will pick up on our new location as soon as they arrive.
[Teyla sighs in defeat.]
TEYLA
Inform the bridge to set a course.
INT—TODD'S SHIP CONFERENCE ROOM
SHEPPARD
Now, Kenny's right about one thing, the second we drop out of hyperspace, the Primary's hive ship's going to know something's up.
RONON
We drop out early. Go the rest of the way by jumper.
SHEPPARD
That's going to take too long. We need a diversion.
MCKAY
So what, uh…what kind of a diversion?
[Ronon and Sheppard exchange looks.]
RONON
You thinking what I'm thinking?
SHEPPARD
Yeah. I don't think we can rely on Kenny to give the order, though.
RONON
We don't give him a choice.
MCKAY
What are you talking about? What-what order? Oh, no, wait a minute, wait a minute, you're-you're not thinking about attacking the other ship?
SHEPPARD
Look, it's the only way to keep them occupied long enough to get on board, get Teyla, and get back.
MCKAY
But it's also incredibly risky. Look, I mean, either of these ships could be destroyed!
SHEPPARD
Well, we'll just make sure we get her out of there before that happens.
[McKay still looks skeptical. Sheppard looks at him.]
SHEPPARD
Look, I realize the odds aren't exactly in our favor, Rodney, but…the longer we wait to get Teyla, the more likely it is we never will. We just have to…keep all of our options open.
[McKay sighs.]
EXT—SPACE
[The Primary hive ship exits hyperspace and approaches another hive ship orbiting a planet.]
INT—PRIMARY SHIP CORRIDOR
[Todd walks with Teyla as they head to the bridge.]
TODD
We have reached the feeding ground. They will attempt to negotiate a concession. But you must stand firm. They may even threaten to attack. But they will not want to fight…any more than we do.
INT—PRIMARY SHIP BRIDGE
[They enter. The Bald Wraith meets them.]
BALD WRAITH
The other hive is trying to contact us.
TEYLA
Ignore them. Charge weapons.
[Todd and the Bald Wraith stare at her, stunned.]
BALD WRAITH
You wish to attacked unprovoked?
TEYLA
We were provoked. They have encroached upon our territory. I want them destroyed…now!
EXT—SPACE
[The Primary ship fires on the other hive ship. It takes heavy damage.]
INT—PRIMARY SHIP HIVE
[Todd steps close to Teyla. Their backs are to the others.]
TODD
(sotto voce, to Teyla)
What are you doing?
TEYLA
What does it look like?
TODD
I told you to talk to them.
TEYLA
You also told me to show no weakness.
[The ship shudders.]
BALD WRAITH
They're returning fire. We're taking hull damage.
TEYLA
Deploy the darts.
BALD WRAITH
Under these conditions, they will suffer heavy losses.
TEYLA
(sharply)
I'm fully aware of the costs. We must take a firm stance against intrusions such as this.
[Todd's eyes widen in realization. He stares at Teyla in horror.]
TODD
(speaking low)
You're doing this on purpose…to kill Wraith.
EXT—SPACE
[There is a fierce dogfight as the Wraith darts approach the rival hive ship.]
INT—PRIMARY SHIP BRIDGE
BALD WRAITH
Half the first wave has been destroyed.
TEYLA
But the survivors are now too close to be affected by the ship's weapons, and they can attack at will.
BALD WRAITH
(slyly)
Until the enemy launches their own darts to intercept.
TEYLA
That will take time! With any luck we have caught them off-guard.
EXT—SPACE
[Todd's hive ship drops out of hyperspace near the nebula.]
INT—TODD'S SHIP BRIDGE
[Sheppard, Ronon, and McKay are on the bridge with Kenny.]
KENNY
They're not here.
SHEPPARD
Where the hell are they?
KENNY
They've moved…to one of our more populated feeding grounds.
RONON
What for?
KENNY
(irritated)
I do not know. I'm not on the ship. But if I had to guess, I would say they've gone to cull.
RONON
What now?
MCKAY
What else can we do? We go after them.
SHEPPARD
(to McKay)
If they jump into hyperspace, we're going to lose them again, right?
MCKAY
Pretty much. Todd's locator beacon doesn't work in hyperspace.
SHEPPARD
We've gotta stop playing catch up.
(to Kenny)
Is there a Stargate on that planet?
KENNY
Of course.
SHEPPARD
Then drop us off. We can get there faster in the jumper.
KENNY
How do you intend to get on board their ship?
SHEPPARD
Don't worry about it. Just get us to the nearest Stargate.
[Kenny looks unhappy, but complies.]
EXT—SPACE
[The rival hive launches its own fighters, and the battle becomes even more heated.]
INT—PRIMARY HIVE SHIP BRIDGE
BALD WRAITH
My queen, our darts are outnumbered two to one. If we do not recall them now, they will be wiped out!
TEYLA
And their sacrifice will be remembered when this alliance rules the galaxy.
[There is a heavy flash and low rumbling.]
TODD
What was that?
WRAITH TECHNICIAN
We just lost the medial weapons array.
TEYLA
(steeling herself)
Keep firing all other batteries!
EXT—PLANET, DAY
[The jumper flies through the active Stargate. It cloaks and flies into orbit.]
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
MCKAY
All right, we should be coming up on them…now. Wait a minute…there's two of them.
SHEPPARD
What?
MCKAY
(puzzled)
And they're fighting! They're not pulling any punches either.
SHEPPARD
You still picking up that signal?
MCKAY
Uh…yeah.
[McKay pulls up the HUD and shows the beacon emitting from one of the hive ships above the planet.]
MCKAY
All right, it's that one. They're not doing so good.
SHEPPARD
What do you mean?
MCKAY
They must've lost some of their weapons. I mean, they're seriously outgunned.
RONON
We gotta do something.
MCKAY
You know, just last week I was talking to Zelenka about trying to reverse-engineer a Daedalus beaming system for the jumpers?
SHEPPARD
And?
MCKAY
Oh, well, no, we're nowhere near close. I mean, the Asgard technology's incredibly complicated—
SHEPPARD
Well, what the hell are you bringing this up for now?
MCKAY
I'm just saying that this would be the perfect situation for…something like this.
SHEPPARD
(groaning)
All right, everybody hold on. We're going in.
[He shuts off the HUD and flies faster.]
MCKAY
What are you doing?
SHEPPARD
Trying to tip the scales a little.
EXT—SPACE
[The jumper approaches one of the hive ships and de-cloaks.]
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
MCKAY
Are you nuts?! They can see us!
EXT—SPACE
[The jumper fires drones throughout the underbelly of the hive. The ship has several small explosions as the jumper re-cloaks and flies away.]
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
RONON
Think that did it?
SHEPPARD
We're about to find out.
EXT—SPACE
[The rival hive ship disintegrates in a large explosion.]
INT—PRIMARY HIVE BRIDGE
BALD WRAITH
That's impossible. The enemy hive just exploded.
TODD
(bowing low)
Well done, my queen.
TEYLA
(to bald wraith)
Perhaps next time you will not be so quick to question my tactics.
[She stalks away. Todd gives a look to the bald wraith, then follows.]
BALD WRAITH
(cautiously, to technician)
Recall the darts.
INT—PUDDLE JUMPER
MCKAY
Darts are heading back. Bay doors are open.
SHEPPARD
All right, that's our cue. I'm going in.
INT—PRIMARY HIVE CORRIDOR
[Ronon, McKay, and Sheppard crouch in a side corridor as a Wraith soldier patrol passes in the main one. McKay studies his scanner.]
SHEPPARD
Where do we go?
MCKAY
I don't know.
SHEPPARD
What do you mean, "you don't know?"
MCKAY
It's hard to tell. I think we're on the wrong level…plus, the signal keeps moving around.
SHEPPARD
That's a good sign Todd's alive.
RONON
Still doesn't tell us anything about Teyla.
MCKAY
All right. It's this way…I think.
[They head out and down another corridor. They stop, hiding behind a pillar as they spot two soldiers guarding an entryway.]
RONON
(whispering)
Whoa.
SHEPPARD
(whispering)
We're going to have to circle back.
MCKAY
(whispering)
Oh, great. I gotta figure this out all over again?
[Ronon checks the other direction, but sees soldiers approaching their position. He hides.]
RONON
Another patrol coming this way.
MCKAY
So what are we gonna do?
SHEPPARD
We got no choice.
MCKAY
Oh…
[He whimpers as they open fire on the Wraith. They shoot all of the Wraith nearby.]
SHEPPARD
Let's move.
RONON
Which way?
[Sheppard checks his direction; there are Wraith coming.]
SHEPPARD
I guess that answers that.
[They run in Ronon's direction. They meet several Wraith coming out of a transporter and open fire. Ronon and McKay are stunned by Wraith coming out another corridor. Sheppard returns fire, but he too is felled. The Bald Wraith arrives.]
BALD WRAITH
Inform the queen. We have intruders.
INT—PRIMARY PRISON CELL
MCKAY
Now what?
SHEPPARD
Well, if I had to guess, I'd say we'll be taken in front of the queen, who will demand answers and threaten to feed on us, by which time I hope to have a plan to get us out of here.
MCKAY
(flatly)
Very reassuring.
[A door opens and Teyla approaches.]
MCKAY
It's Teyla. She's alive.
SHEPPARD
(low, warning)
Rodney…quiet.
TEYLA
(haughtily, to guards)
Leave us.
[The guards leave.]
TEYLA
(sounding more like herself, but still with Wraith voice)
John, Ronon, Rodney, it is good to see you. But you should not have come for me.
SHEPPARD
Why? What's going on?
TEYLA
I will explain later. But you must not attempt to escape. You are in no danger. I'm now queen of this hive.
MCKAY
Wait…what?!
TEYLA
It is a long story.
SHEPPARD
No, we got a jumper here, we can leave right now!
TEYLA
No! I must solidify my position first. It is the only chance we have to ensure the alliance will accept the treatment. Otherwise, this will all have been for nothing.
[They consider this.]
SHEPPARD
All right. We'll let it play out…for now.
[Teyla sighs in relief, nods, and leaves. No one notices the bald wraith hidden behind the corner, who has watched the entire exchange.]
INT—PRIMARY THRONE ROOM
[Teyla exits a transporter and approaches her throne. The Bald Wraith appears out of the shadows.]
BALD WRAITH
My queen…
TEYLA
(startled)
What are you doing here? Who authorized you to wait in my quarters?
BALD WRAITH
(smiling)
I let myself in. I needed to see you in private.
TEYLA
(rattled)
I do not wish to speak right now. Come back later.
BALD WRAITH
I'm afraid I can't do that.
TEYLA
I am your queen, I command you—
BALD WRAITH
You are not my queen!
TEYLA
How dare you speak to me like this! Remove yourself from my sight immediately!
BALD WRAITH
I saw you talking with the prisoners from Atlantis.
TEYLA
And? I may not interrogate prisoners on my own ship?
BALD WRAITH
Oh, you may—though it is odd that you refer to them as prisoners. I overheard what you said to them. You knew them, and they know you. And I asked myself: "how is such a thing possible?" I suspected you right from the moment you set foot aboard my ship.
[Teyla has been looking more and more fearful. She tries to bolt, but the Wraith blocks her path.]
BALD WRAITH
And against my better judgment, I allowed you to remain on board…
(draws his sword)
…while you committed treachery after treachery! It was my duty to defend this ship, and I failed.
[He swings his sword, but Teyla ducks, stabbing him in the side with her dagger. The Wraith backhands her with a powerful swing, knocking her off her feet and into the throne, where she knocks her head against the back of it. She is still stunned while the Wraith pulls out the dagger and drags her off the throne, throwing her onto the floor. He crouches behind her and holds the sword blade to her throat.]
BALD WRAITH
I'm afraid your reign is over…my queen!
[He is struck several times in the back by the Wraith stunner weapon wielded by Todd. Teyla scrambles away as Todd approaches. He bends down and breaks the Bald Wraith's neck, then stands.]
TODD
He'll not be bothering you any further.
TEYLA
(breathlessly)
Thank you.
[Todd grins and nods.]
INT—PRIMARY SHIP CORRIDOR
[Todd and Teyla walk down a corridor.]
TODD
My hive arrived moments ago. I've arranged for Colonel Sheppard, Ronon, and Doctor McKay to be transferred there immediately.
TEYLA
Good. When do I join them?
TODD
As soon as this is all over.
INT—PRIMARY THRONE ROOM
[Teyla sits on the throne, speaking imperiously to several columns of Wraith gathered there.]
TEYLA
…and thus I will be taking my leave of you and returning to my former hive. I am leaving behind my trusted commander.
(gesturing to Todd)
Let me be clear, you will still fall under my protection, but in my absence, you will heed his every order as if it were my own. When he speaks, it is as though I am speaking through him. Is that understood?
WRAITH TECHNICIAN
Yes, my queen.
TEYLA
Good. Then it is time.
(to Todd)
Escort me to my transport.
[Todd bows.]
WRAITH TECHNICIAN
The queen departs.
[The Wraith position themselves as an honor guard, making way for Teyla, who stalks out, Todd following.]
INT—PRIMARY HIVE CORRIDOR
TODD
Well done. I believe you've managed to allay all suspicions.
TEYLA
Just remember why we did this—to disseminate Doctor Keller's treatment to as many Wraith as possible.
TODD
Of course. Although I think it might be wise to let matters settle for a time first.
[Teyla stops and turns to him.]
TEYLA
(suspiciously)
How much time?
TODD
Not long.
TEYLA
You're not planning on going back on our agreement, are you?
TODD
No, no. I'm just saying that to press such a radical agenda so soon after the change in leadership…well, it may invite unwelcome questions.
TEYLA
Fine.
TODD
Very well—
TEYLA
But bear in mind that as far as this crew is concerned, I am still their queen.
TODD
Oh, yes.
TEYLA
I will be watching you. And should you step out of line, I will not hesitate to make a reappearance…and have you removed.
TODD
Very well.
TEYLA
Permanently.
[Todd curls his hands into fists impotently as he watches Teyla leave.]
EXT—ATLANTIS, DAY
INT—ATLANTIS INFIRMARY
[Sheppard and Keller approach Teyla's bedside. Sheppard looks concerned.]
SHEPPARD
What have you done to her, Doc?
[Teyla rolls her eyes. She looks like herself again.]
TEYLA
Very funny.
KELLER
How are you feeling?
TEYLA
Better. Still some soreness, but for the most part, it's gone.
KELLER
Good. Well, I have rounds, but I'll come and check on you later. Make sure he doesn't give you a hard time.
[Teyla chuckles while Sheppard tries to look innocent as Keller leaves.]
SHEPPARD
Sure you're feeling okay?
TEYLA
Yes. Thank you.
SHEPPARD
No lingering desires to feed on anything?
TEYLA
Only on solid food. The blended concoctions given to me by Doctor Keller are not very satisfying.
SHEPPARD
Well, it's only been two weeks. Give it some time. Look, um…I haven't had the chance to tell you that what you did, uh, took…you know, a lot of guts.
TEYLA
I'm just glad it worked out for the best.
(takes a deep breath)
Has there been any further word from Todd?
SHEPPARD
Not really. We're supposed to meet with him in a few weeks about this whole gene therapy thing. Word has it, he's, uh, solidified his position as a "leader" of the alliance.
[He makes air quotes on saying "leader." Teyla looks away, deep in thought.]
SHEPPARD
What?
TEYLA
Do you not find it strange that as a result of all of this, Todd now personally has control of that entire alliance?
SHEPPARD
You think that was his plan all along, huh?
TEYLA
The thought had crossed my mind.
SHEPPARD
Yeah. Regardless, I think we're better off than we were before.
TEYLA
Yes. I suppose you're right.
[She doesn't look confident.]
SHEPPARD
Get some rest. I'll come back and check on you.
TEYLA
Hmm.
[Sheppard leaves. Teyla studies what had been her feeding hand and looks deep in thought.]
FADE OUT
END CREDITS
Transcribed for Solutions by Aurora Novarum, October 2008.
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--Michelle 22:21, 14 October 2008 (PDT)