NOHNTHN Part 2
Title: Neither One Hand Nor The Hangman’s Noose - Part Two
Author: Weaselett
Movie Adapted: Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
Genre: Action/Adventure, Drama
Characters/Pairings: Teal’c, Daniel, Cameron, Sam, Jack - plus numerous others
Both slash and het pairings featured.
Rating: 15
Word Count: 4,776
Warnings: Character Death,
Disclaimer: No copyright infringement intended; fair use only. Not created for profit.
Author’s Notes: Written for reel_sg1
This is written in a slightly different style than I normally use so….go easy on me. It’s very close to the movie in places, very different in others.
Beta’d by charlies_dragon
Many thanks go to my RE lessons (if anything’s wrong, blame my memory) and my Da who kindly spent two hours discussing the travel routes taken by the people involved in the Crusades.
Part One
Part Two
Daniel climbs out of the boat just as they strike land, not seeming to notice the cold water around his ankles as he stumbles up the beach a few yards before falling to his knees and burying his hands in the sand. Teal’c watches silently, an eyebrow rising slowly, waiting for the men to land the boat before making his own more graceful exit.
Daniel laughs, kissing the sand in his hands before rolling onto his back to smile up at Teal’c, eyes sparkling. “I’m home!”
“You are strange Christian.” Teal’c steps past him, taking in their surroundings.
“Maybe, but I’m free,” Daniel replies, continuing to smile up at Teal’c from the ground, “as you should be my friend. Return with the boat, go back to your home, be free.”
Teal’c frowns down at him, “You know I can not.”
Daniel sighs, his smile fading, “I know what it is to be away from home, away from your family and I have no wish for you to know it as well.”
“It is because of my family that I must remain, for to leave now would be to dishonour them.”
Daniel sits up, glancing towards the men the boat for a moment before meeting Teal’c gaze once more. “I thought you would say that.”
Teal’c turns just as the first man reaches him, sweeping the man’s feet out from under him neatly, before catching the arm of the next and throwing him to the floor. The others retreat warily, uncertain gazes drifting to Daniel, who gives them a resigned nod, letting them go. Teal’c watches silently as they climb back into the boat before offering Daniel a hand up, “That was not a wise decision my friend.”
Daniel winces, lowering his eyes as he accepts Teal’c’s hand, allowing him to help him stand. “I had to try Teal’c.”
Teal’c nods slowly, “Were I in your place, I would have succeeded.”
Daniel raises an eyebrow. “Perhaps.”
“I would not have had men who stink of garlic attack from downwind.” Teal’c comments dryly glancing towards the retreating boat.
“I will try again.” Daniel meets Teal’c’s gaze for a long moment before moving off, leading the way across the sand. “Tonight my friend, we will celebrate with my father, for our fighting days are done and I am finally home.”
--
Daniel leads them at a steady pace across the countryside, describing to Teal’c in great detail the house and lands of his father, as well as the welcome he has no doubt they receive. Teal’c smiles fondly, allowing his companion to fill the silence as he carefully remains a few steps behind, very aware of his place in this new strange land.
For a long time Daniel doesn’t comment, content to continue on with his stories, but eventually his curiosity gets the best of him and he stops, turning to face Teal’c, eyes bright. “Why are you walking at my back?”
“In this land, I am considered an infidel, am I not?” Teal’c waits for Daniel to nod before continuing, “Then is it not safer if I appear to be your slave, rather than your equal?”
Daniel hesitates for a moment before answering, his eyes troubled, “You have an incredible clarity of thinking, for an infidel my friend. I wish that such a precaution were not necessary, but you are right, the people of my homeland would not take well to the sight of one of your people walking beside one of mine.”
Teal’c smiles sadly, inclining his head. “There is much history between out two peoples Christian and little of it is good.”
Daniel nods, expression sombre for a moment before he turns and starts to walk once more. “I have told you much of my home, and something of myself, yet I know little of you my friend.” Daniel glances quickly over his shoulder, an eyebrow quirking. “For example, your name, Teal’c, does it have a meaning?”
“It means strong.”
Daniel grins, walking backwards so that he can watch Teal’c’s expressions, “You gave yourself this name?”
Teal’c frowns, quickening his pace to pass Daniel and start up the next slope.
“It was a joke, Teal’c!” Daniel calls after him, before idly reaching up to pull a branch off the tree beside him, his grin widening as he holds the small sprig up to show Teal’c. “Thanks to this plant, many of a maid lost her resolve to me.”
Teal’c stops mid way up the slope to turn and frown disapprovingly down at Daniel. “In my country, we talk to our women; we do not drug them with plants.”
Daniel laughs easily, shaking his head. “We don’t drug our women either, but tell me Teal’c, what do you know of women?” He draws the last word out playfully, eyes shining.
“I know that there are women in my homeland of such beauty that they can possess the mind of a man so that he would do anything for them. Even die for them.” Teal’c answers, turning to continue on his way up the hill.
“That’s why they were going to execute you isn’t it?” Daniel hurries to catch up with him, “Because of a woman.”
Teal’c schools his features, refusing to give the other man any encouragement.
“Tell me, this woman, who you were willing to die for, what was her name?” Daniel’s eyes narrow as he watches Teal’c expression, “Who was she?”
Teal’c sighs, stilling, his gaze drifting to darkening sky. “It is in the past now Christian, now tell me, which way is east.”
Daniel frowns at him, crossing his arm over his chest. “Her name.”
“East.” Teal’c prompts, ignoring the other man’s question.
Daniel smiles, shaking his head. “Only if you tell me her name.”
“Drey’ac.” Teal’c gives in, after all there is no harm in him knowing a name.
Daniel watches him for a moment suspicious before he points to their right. “That way.”
Teal’c frowns. “You are certain.”
“I would know blindfolded, I’m five miles from home.” Daniel watches quietly as Teal’c pulls out his prayer mat and kneels, closing his eyes, starting the ritual that Daniel has witnessed him perform numerous times. “Was she worth it?” His voice is soft as he asks, gaze intent.
Teal’c opens his eyes for a moment, looking up at him, “Worth dying for.”
--
Teal’c tries to remain focused on his prayers as he hears the approaching men, hounds and horses, mentally tracking Daniel’s progress without opening his eyes.
“Stop!” Daniel’s voice interrupts whatever it was the lead hunter was about to say, “I am curious as to what manner of pray requires so many men to hunt it. It must be especially fearsome.”
Teal’c resists the urge to sigh, he wishes the Christian didn’t feel the need to bait his enemies quite as often.
“It is no affair of yours!” A man’s voice answers, thick with anger.
“Perhaps it is even the devil himself.” Daniel continues, ignoring the irate man. “No? What’s this, a small boy, such a fearsome and deadly foe.” His voice drips with sarcasm and Teal’c shifts his weight slowly, determined to finish his prayers. It is his duty to Allah.
“That boy killed one of the Sheriff of Nottingham’s deer.” The man’s tone of voice tells Teal’c that this is a great crime indeed. Or at least it is in the mind of the Englishman.
“We were starving!” A boy’s voice, unbroken rings out and Teal’c frowns. That, to his mind, is the greater of the two crimes. “We needed the meat.”
“You should move on Pilgrim.” The man snarls, ignoring the boy’s words, “This is the sheriff’s business, not yours.”
“May I ask what makes this the Sheriff’s business.” There’s a familiar edge to Daniel’s voice, a warning.
“This is the Sheriff’s land.”
Daniel laughs, “Wrong. This is my land and my tree. That makes the contents of the tree also my property, so perhaps it is you who should move on.”
The man growls, audible to even Teal’c on the crest of the hill, “May I have the pleasure of your name, before I run you through?”
“Daniel of Loxsley, and your name my good sir?”
“Loxsley, well well, welcome home, it is unfortunate however, that you will not get to enjoy the experience for much longer.” Teal’c can hear the menace in the man’s voice, but he can also hear the weakness. The Christian will deal with him, there is no need to hurry to his aid.
“Teal’c! It’s time to renew your vow!” Daniel yells for him, a moment before Teal’c hears the tell tale sound of an arrow hitting flesh twice in quick succession.
“Release the hounds!” The man orders and Teal’c stands slowly, his prayers finished, carefully rolling up his prayer mat and replacing it in its carrier.
“Teal’c!” Daniel yells again, followed by the sound of a sword against leather, followed by the sounds of a short scuffle. “Any time soon would be good!”
There’s the distant sound of swords clashing for a moment before Teal’c hears one of the men drop, a moment before the impromptu battleground comes into view. He smiled faintly as he spots Daniel, holding a sword to another man’s throat. The Christian needed to recognise his own ability.
“Your name, before I run you through.” Daniel comments, a cold smile on his lips.
“Samuel of Gisburn.” The man chokes out and glares up at Daniel, “The sheriff is my cousin and that boy was poaching deer.”
“To my mind, it is a much greater crime to starve a family.” Daniel answers, pressing the blade harder against the man’s throat: just hard enough to draw a little blood.
“Do it Loxsley.” Gisburn growls, “Finish me.”
Daniel makes a disgusted noise before he steps back, “I have seen enough blood spilt to last two lifetimes, I have no wish to spill anymore. Now get off my land and tell the Sheriff what happens to his men when they prey on small children.” Daniel smacks Gisburn hard with the flat of his blade when the man makes a show of taking his time, watching until the man is on his horse and riding away before he turns to Teal’c, eyes narrowed, pointing at him with the sword. “You, you travel ten thousand miles to keep your vow and yet you still leave me to be butchered. I think we have different views on how a man saves another’s life.”
Teal’c raises an eyebrow as he crosses his arms over his chest, “Unless I am mistaken Christian, you are still alive.”
Daniel sighs and shakes his head, trudging warily over to the base of the tree, peering up at the young boy, “Have no fear and come down boy.” He waits patiently until the boy drops to the ground in front of him, leaning on the sword, “Is what he said true boy, did you kill a deer?”
The boy grins, “Hundreds of them.” He states casually, before he turns and runs off across the fields, in the opposite direction from Gisburn.
“You scared him.” Daniel comments, throwing Teal’c a look over his shoulder.
Teal’c raises an eyebrow in reply, moving to stand on the wall, looking down at one of the dead men, a crossbow bolt through his head. “Your homeland is an interesting place.”
“A lot more interesting than it was when I left, I can assure you.” Daniel replies, frowning down at the man for a moment before turning back to the path, “We still have a few miles walk ahead of us before we will reach my home.”
Teal’c nods, “And it will be dark soon.”
Daniel smiles, nodding, “It will. In the meantime, tell me Teal’c, this Drey’ac, who is she?”
Teal’c frowns, “You are most persistent Christian.”
Daniel’s smile widens as he slips the sword into his belt as they walk, “I have learned in our months together, that it pays to be persistent with you.”
Teal’c laughs softly, before inclining his head, “Indeed.”
“So?” Daniel presses again.
“She is married to another, though, once, she was to be my bride.”
Daniel frowns, “What happened?”
Teal’c’s expression turns grim, “Her father changed his mind after my father died, but he did not know that Drey’ac and I had spent a night together, in celebration of our coming union.”
Daniel winces, “I’m sorry Teal’c.”
Teal’c smiles gently, “There is no need to be sorry for me Christian, I would rather have that single moment to remember than have never have lived it at all.”
Daniel smiles, eyes distant, “I think I can understand that.”
--
Teal’c slows as they approach the stone building, the scent of burning too strong to his senses, a feeling of foreboding filling him.
“Father!” Daniel calls, quickening his pace as they reach what must have at one time been the entrance to a fine home, but is now little more than a burnt shell. “Father!?”
Teal’c moves closer to him, one hand resting on the hilt of his sword, dark eyes scanning the shadows as they step through the hollow entranceway into a vast chasm, heaps of still smouldering wood the only sign that the building was ever complete.
“Walter?” Daniel’s voice starts to take on a touch of desperation as he searches the blackened remains of his home for any sign of life. A sharp metallic creak sounds from above them and they both look up, finding themselves staring at a large cage, holding the body of a man. Daniel gasps, shaking his head in mute denial, unconsciously reaching out to grab Teal’c’s arm. “No, it can’t, oh god, no.”
Daniel turns away a moment later, shaking as he buries his face in Teal’c’s robes. Teal’c glances back up at the body for a moment before shuddering faintly, he knows without having to ask who it is. “I am sorry Christian.”
Daniel nods weakly, his breathing uneven as he struggles not to cry.
They both turn a moment later, Teal’c drawing his sword, when something moves in the shadows. “Who’s there?” Daniel’s voice takes on a harder edge, as he continues his battle with his emotions.
“Master Daniel?” A man’s voice, rough and broken calls out.
Daniel stiffens beside Teal’c, frowning, “Walter?”
“Master Daniel!” The man steps out of the shadows, smiling, his relief clear, “I thought God had abandoned us.”
Teal’c frowns and takes a step closer to him, just as Daniel moves forward to grab the man’s clothes, “My Father, Walter. Why didn’t you cut him down?”
Walter falters, “I would have Master Daniel, if I could see.”
Daniel lets him go, looking as through he’s been burnt, “Oh God.” He whispered, seeing the man in front of him clearly for the first time, “Walter.”
“I never thought I’d live to hear your voice again.”
Teal’c reaches out to Daniel, supporting him gently.
“Who did this to you?”
“Samuel of Gisburn, with the Sheriff and his witch looking on.” Walter answers and one hand touches the puckered skin around his eyes gingerly, “They said your father was caught worshipping the Devil, that he signed a confession before they killed him.”
Daniel’s hands clench into fists, “No, my father would never do such a thing!”
Walter nods solemnly, his hands shaking, “I didn’t believe their charges, not even when they took my eyes.”
“You’re a good man Walter.” Daniel reaches out to him, gently and they embrace for a moment before Daniel leads him outside, away from the wreck of their home.
--
Teal’c climbs the blackened walls carefully to cut down Daniel’s father, fixing a rope to lower the cage slowly, treating the body with the respect it deserves. He refuses Daniel’s offer to help, sending the young Christian out to dig the grave, with blind servant for company. This job is not for the son.
He wraps the body with care before carrying it out to the place, at the edge of the woods, which Daniel had chosen, waiting patiently until the grave is deep enough before lowering the body into it, mouthing a prayer as he does so.
Daniel silently reaches in, removing a chain from his father’s neck before he covers the body with soil, offering his own prayer as he does so, with Walter joining him in the last verse. A single tear slips down the young man’s cheek as he kneels beside the grave of his father for a moment before standing and reaching for the cross that he had prepared during the night, thrusting it neatly into the ground at the head of the grave. He hangs the necklace over it reverently before moving to kneel at the foot of the grave, quietly intoning a second prayer, before kissing his fingers and pressing them against the soil, closing his eyes for a moment.
Teal’c and Walter kneel at the grave side, though Teal’c finds himself having to support the older man occasionally. His wounds have never healed as they should and he is weak from hunger, something that Teal’c plans to rectify. No man should starve in the midst of such plenty, nor in the absence of his master.
“He loved you until the end Master Daniel.” Walter’s voice is soft as he speaks, turning his face towards Daniel’s voice, “Do not think otherwise.”
Daniel’s jaw clenches, “I should have been here.”
Walter sighs, sagging against Teal’c. “It would have made little difference I fear young master.”
“He told me that the crusades were a foolish quest, that it was vanity to try and force our religion on others.” Daniel’s voice was soft as he looked up at Teal’c silently asking for his forgiveness. It was, after all, Teal’c’s people upon whom he had intended to force his religion.
Teal’c inclines his head slowly, a smile touching the corner his mouth. He knows, better than any, just how much the Christian has learned in his time away.
“We need to leave Master Daniel, head south, for Gisburn will surely be looking for revenge.” Walter comments, swaying slightly in the breeze.
Daniel nods, “You’re right Walter, of course.”
Daniel crosses himself before standing, lifting the chain from its rest upon the wooden cross and hanging it around his own neck. Teal’c’s hand fists as he holds himself back from comforting his friend as he would were they elsewhere, in a different time.
Daniel meets Teal’c’s gaze careful, expression grim, “You should consider going home my friend, my world has been turned upside down and I can not ask you to come with me where I am going.”
“You will only get your self killed if you go alone Christian.” Teal’c comments solemnly, his eyes saying more than his words can, “Besides, there is no longer anything left for me to go home to.”
Daniel smiles weakly nodding his understanding before he turns back to the grave. He draws the small knife that he has carried since Acre, staring at it for a moment before his jaw clenches and he presses the blade into the flesh of his hand quickly, allowing several drips of his own blood to fall onto the new grave, gaze fixed on the wooden cross. “Upon my blood, I will not rest until my father is avenged.”
--
Teal’c lengthens his stride to bring him up beside Daniel, who is leading the servant gently, his expression troubled. “If I may ask, where are we going Christian?”
Daniel glances at him quickly, “Mark’s home. Despite everything that has happened, I still have a promise to keep.” His free hand reaches up to touch the ring, on its chain around his neck, half hidden by the cross.
“Indeed.” Teal’c agrees.
“We should find food and shelter there as well.” Daniel adds, for Walter’s benefit.
Teal’c nods anyway before turning his attention to the large building in front of them, idly noting that it is a much bigger and grander abode than Daniel’s home could ever have been.
“It’s been almost six years since you and Mark left together Master Daniel.” Walter comments, blinding turning his face towards Daniel who nods, frowning.
“You’re right Walter it is, but hopefully his family have not changed so much that they would turn us away.”
Walter nods, “You bring news of Mark to them.”
Daniel smiles weakly, “But it is not good news Walter.”
“No, Master Daniel, it is not.” Walter agrees softly, lowering his head.
--
Daniel leads Walter to the wall, waiting for him to get his bearings before he releases the man’s arm and turns to knock on the heavy wooden door.
Teal’c steps back, keeping as close to the wall as possible, knowing that his presence will most likely not be welcomed. He watches silently as a hatch in the door slides back and an old woman peers out at them, frowning.
“No more beggars.” She slams the hatch shut once more, not seeming to notice Daniel’s stunned expression.
Teal’c raised an eyebrow silently, ignoring the warning glare Daniel throws at him as he steps forward to knock again, one hand braced on the door just below the hatch.
The hatch slides open slowly, and the woman glares out at them, eyes accusing.
“Tell the lady of the house that Daniel of Loxsley is at the door.” Daniel speaks quickly, hand moving up to block the hatch and prevent her from closing it again.
“Her ladyship is not here.”
Daniel frowns, “Then is the child Samantha at home?”
The woman’s eyes narrow, “Maybe she is, maybe she isn’t.” She raps out without hesitation, before slamming the hatch shut on Daniel’s hand.
Daniel flinches, shaking his hand and glaring at the door, muttering under his breath in what Teal’c recognises to be French.
“The hospitality in this country is about as warm as the weather.” Teal’c comments dryly, glancing up at the overcast sky in disgust. If this weather is the cost of such a green landscape Teal’c would much rather live in the dry, warm climate of his home.
Daniel sighs, rubbing his hand for a moment before he throws one last glare at the door and reaches out to Walter. “We’re leaving.”
Teal’c inclines his head in silent agreement, “That would seem a wise course of action.”
They both turn a moment later, when the sound of the hatch sliding open reaches their ears, “Leave your weapons.” The woman commands as they approach the door once more, her gaze flinty.
Daniel and Teal’c both automatically start stripping themselves of weapons before the woman interrupts, frowning at Teal’c. “Just him.” She nods at Daniel, who sighs and wordlessly holds his sword and dagger out to Teal’c.
--
Walter slumps against the wall, gripping his walking stick, expression pinched. “A curse on Moors and Saracens. If not for their ungodly ways Master Daniel would never have left.”
Teal’c raises an eyebrow silently, amused by the man’s unknowing insult.
“Tell me, what manner of name is Teal’c? Irish, Welsh, Cornish?”
Teal’c smiles, “Moorish.”
Walter jumps, clutching his stick harder as a blush touched his features. “My apologies, I meant no harm.”
“Do not worry my friend, it was a war between my people and yours that took Master Daniel away, for that you have reason enough to hate my people.” Teal’c assures him gently and they fall back into a comfortable silence.
They both start a moment later when Daniel yells from within the building and Teal’c automatically throws himself at the door, cursing his own stupidity.
“Point me towards danger Teal’c, I am ready!” Walter lifts his stick confidently, taking a step towards Teal’c as he continues his attack on the door, grunting faintly each time his shoulder impacts with the solid wood.
The wood splinters on his fifth try, swinging open and the woman behind it retreats back into the house as Teal’c draws his sword and charges in, only to freeze as a strangely dressed woman knees Daniel hard in the groin, dropping him to the floor.
Teal’c moves forward, only to stop as Daniel holds up a hand, wincing as he straightens, gazing at the woman. “Hello Samantha.”
--
Teal’c silently moves away from Daniel and the young woman as they step out of the house, knowing that Daniel will want some privacy to tell her the news he has brought her. He guides Walter carefully over to a bench in the centre of the courtyard before crossing to one of the ladders braced against the wall and climbing it easily. From the wall top he can watch both Daniel and their surroundings with ease.
He settles himself onto the cold stone before searching through his things for the two glass lenses and their leather surround. He checks both pieces of glass carefully, making sure that they haven’t suffered any damage during the journey before carefully fixing them into the surround, glancing sideways as the woman raises her voice.
“All that I remember of you is a spoiled bully who used to burn my hair as a child!”
Teal’c raises an eyebrow, he is not surprised by the woman’s words, though he admits he can see little of the boy she describes in the man he knows. War and imprisonment can change a man.
Teal’c calmly turns his back on them as they lower their voices once more, frowning as he catches a glimpse of movement out of the corner of his eye. He brings his telescope to his eyes quickly, focusing it on the small group of horses he can now see, growling as he spots a familiar face amongst them. “Christian!”
It takes Daniel a moment to join him on the wall and Teal’s continues to follow the progress of the horsemen with his eyes as he holds the telescope out to Daniel, pointing to them, “Look!”
Daniel hesitates for a moment before lifting the lenses to his eye, almost dropping the telescope as he focuses it on the horsemen. Teal’c watches silently for a moment as Daniel draws his sword and makes a feeble attempt to stab at the approaching enemy, lacking any real understanding of the item in his hands.
Teal’c snatches the telescope out of Daniel’s hand, shaking his head, “However did your uneducated kind ever take Jerusalem?”
Daniel smiles ruefully in response, recognising his mistake, “God knows.”
“What is it?” Samantha calls from below, shading her eyes as she stares up at them, long blonde hair blowing in the wind, “What can you see?”
Teal’c and Daniel exchange a look before jumping off the wall into the pile of hay below.
“It’s Nottingham’s soldiers.” Daniel answers reluctantly as they jog across the yard, he stops in front of her, while Teal’c moves towards a small group of saddled horses, which are secured to a series of posts in the ground close to Walter.
“Coming here?” Samantha questions, disbelievingly, “Is this your protection Daniel?”
Daniel winces faintly, “I killed some of the sheriff’s men.”
Samantha sighs, shoulders slumping slightly, “Oh dear.”
Teal’c smiles to himself, as he picks the two strongest looking horses before gently guiding Walter to one of them.
“I’m afraid I’ve put you in danger.” Daniel continues, his voice tinged with guilt.
“I can take care of myself, just go.” Samantha answers impatiently as Teal’c mounts his chosen horse before pulling Walter gently up behind him, watching out of the corner of his eye as Daniel takes a step away from them, sword drawn. Teal’c sighs, leaning sideways to grab the reins of the second horse and kicking his own forward, drawing the young woman’s attention.
“That’s my horse!” She objects, meeting Teal’c’s gaze.
Teal’c smiles, inclining his head, “A truly magnificent animal my lady.”
She sighs, glaring at him for a moment before she gives him, turning back to Daniel, “Go!”
“I’m sworn to protect you.” Daniel answers, not even bothering to turn to face her.
She rolls her eyes, stepping forward to grab Daniel’s arm and push him towards Teal’c. “I say no more boyish gestures.”
Daniel hesitates, meeting her gaze, stubbornly, “I’m not leaving.”
She raises an eyebrow in return, before turning towards the approaching riders, “Help they’re stealing my horses!” She screams, pushing Daniel roughly.
Daniel stares at her for a moment before he finally gives in, “You’re so kind ma’am.” He jogs over to the horse and easily swings himself up into the saddle before taking the reins from Teal’c with a smile, throwing one last meaningful look at the young woman a few yards away before he urges his horse forward, away from the approaching soldiers.
Part Three
-
Author: Weaselett
Movie Adapted: Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
Genre: Action/Adventure, Drama
Characters/Pairings: Teal’c, Daniel, Cameron, Sam, Jack - plus numerous others
Both slash and het pairings featured.
Rating: 15
Word Count: 4,776
Warnings: Character Death,
Disclaimer: No copyright infringement intended; fair use only. Not created for profit.
Author’s Notes: Written for reel_sg1
This is written in a slightly different style than I normally use so….go easy on me. It’s very close to the movie in places, very different in others.
Beta’d by charlies_dragon
Many thanks go to my RE lessons (if anything’s wrong, blame my memory) and my Da who kindly spent two hours discussing the travel routes taken by the people involved in the Crusades.
Part One
Part Two
Daniel climbs out of the boat just as they strike land, not seeming to notice the cold water around his ankles as he stumbles up the beach a few yards before falling to his knees and burying his hands in the sand. Teal’c watches silently, an eyebrow rising slowly, waiting for the men to land the boat before making his own more graceful exit.
Daniel laughs, kissing the sand in his hands before rolling onto his back to smile up at Teal’c, eyes sparkling. “I’m home!”
“You are strange Christian.” Teal’c steps past him, taking in their surroundings.
“Maybe, but I’m free,” Daniel replies, continuing to smile up at Teal’c from the ground, “as you should be my friend. Return with the boat, go back to your home, be free.”
Teal’c frowns down at him, “You know I can not.”
Daniel sighs, his smile fading, “I know what it is to be away from home, away from your family and I have no wish for you to know it as well.”
“It is because of my family that I must remain, for to leave now would be to dishonour them.”
Daniel sits up, glancing towards the men the boat for a moment before meeting Teal’c gaze once more. “I thought you would say that.”
Teal’c turns just as the first man reaches him, sweeping the man’s feet out from under him neatly, before catching the arm of the next and throwing him to the floor. The others retreat warily, uncertain gazes drifting to Daniel, who gives them a resigned nod, letting them go. Teal’c watches silently as they climb back into the boat before offering Daniel a hand up, “That was not a wise decision my friend.”
Daniel winces, lowering his eyes as he accepts Teal’c’s hand, allowing him to help him stand. “I had to try Teal’c.”
Teal’c nods slowly, “Were I in your place, I would have succeeded.”
Daniel raises an eyebrow. “Perhaps.”
“I would not have had men who stink of garlic attack from downwind.” Teal’c comments dryly glancing towards the retreating boat.
“I will try again.” Daniel meets Teal’c’s gaze for a long moment before moving off, leading the way across the sand. “Tonight my friend, we will celebrate with my father, for our fighting days are done and I am finally home.”
--
Daniel leads them at a steady pace across the countryside, describing to Teal’c in great detail the house and lands of his father, as well as the welcome he has no doubt they receive. Teal’c smiles fondly, allowing his companion to fill the silence as he carefully remains a few steps behind, very aware of his place in this new strange land.
For a long time Daniel doesn’t comment, content to continue on with his stories, but eventually his curiosity gets the best of him and he stops, turning to face Teal’c, eyes bright. “Why are you walking at my back?”
“In this land, I am considered an infidel, am I not?” Teal’c waits for Daniel to nod before continuing, “Then is it not safer if I appear to be your slave, rather than your equal?”
Daniel hesitates for a moment before answering, his eyes troubled, “You have an incredible clarity of thinking, for an infidel my friend. I wish that such a precaution were not necessary, but you are right, the people of my homeland would not take well to the sight of one of your people walking beside one of mine.”
Teal’c smiles sadly, inclining his head. “There is much history between out two peoples Christian and little of it is good.”
Daniel nods, expression sombre for a moment before he turns and starts to walk once more. “I have told you much of my home, and something of myself, yet I know little of you my friend.” Daniel glances quickly over his shoulder, an eyebrow quirking. “For example, your name, Teal’c, does it have a meaning?”
“It means strong.”
Daniel grins, walking backwards so that he can watch Teal’c’s expressions, “You gave yourself this name?”
Teal’c frowns, quickening his pace to pass Daniel and start up the next slope.
“It was a joke, Teal’c!” Daniel calls after him, before idly reaching up to pull a branch off the tree beside him, his grin widening as he holds the small sprig up to show Teal’c. “Thanks to this plant, many of a maid lost her resolve to me.”
Teal’c stops mid way up the slope to turn and frown disapprovingly down at Daniel. “In my country, we talk to our women; we do not drug them with plants.”
Daniel laughs easily, shaking his head. “We don’t drug our women either, but tell me Teal’c, what do you know of women?” He draws the last word out playfully, eyes shining.
“I know that there are women in my homeland of such beauty that they can possess the mind of a man so that he would do anything for them. Even die for them.” Teal’c answers, turning to continue on his way up the hill.
“That’s why they were going to execute you isn’t it?” Daniel hurries to catch up with him, “Because of a woman.”
Teal’c schools his features, refusing to give the other man any encouragement.
“Tell me, this woman, who you were willing to die for, what was her name?” Daniel’s eyes narrow as he watches Teal’c expression, “Who was she?”
Teal’c sighs, stilling, his gaze drifting to darkening sky. “It is in the past now Christian, now tell me, which way is east.”
Daniel frowns at him, crossing his arm over his chest. “Her name.”
“East.” Teal’c prompts, ignoring the other man’s question.
Daniel smiles, shaking his head. “Only if you tell me her name.”
“Drey’ac.” Teal’c gives in, after all there is no harm in him knowing a name.
Daniel watches him for a moment suspicious before he points to their right. “That way.”
Teal’c frowns. “You are certain.”
“I would know blindfolded, I’m five miles from home.” Daniel watches quietly as Teal’c pulls out his prayer mat and kneels, closing his eyes, starting the ritual that Daniel has witnessed him perform numerous times. “Was she worth it?” His voice is soft as he asks, gaze intent.
Teal’c opens his eyes for a moment, looking up at him, “Worth dying for.”
--
Teal’c tries to remain focused on his prayers as he hears the approaching men, hounds and horses, mentally tracking Daniel’s progress without opening his eyes.
“Stop!” Daniel’s voice interrupts whatever it was the lead hunter was about to say, “I am curious as to what manner of pray requires so many men to hunt it. It must be especially fearsome.”
Teal’c resists the urge to sigh, he wishes the Christian didn’t feel the need to bait his enemies quite as often.
“It is no affair of yours!” A man’s voice answers, thick with anger.
“Perhaps it is even the devil himself.” Daniel continues, ignoring the irate man. “No? What’s this, a small boy, such a fearsome and deadly foe.” His voice drips with sarcasm and Teal’c shifts his weight slowly, determined to finish his prayers. It is his duty to Allah.
“That boy killed one of the Sheriff of Nottingham’s deer.” The man’s tone of voice tells Teal’c that this is a great crime indeed. Or at least it is in the mind of the Englishman.
“We were starving!” A boy’s voice, unbroken rings out and Teal’c frowns. That, to his mind, is the greater of the two crimes. “We needed the meat.”
“You should move on Pilgrim.” The man snarls, ignoring the boy’s words, “This is the sheriff’s business, not yours.”
“May I ask what makes this the Sheriff’s business.” There’s a familiar edge to Daniel’s voice, a warning.
“This is the Sheriff’s land.”
Daniel laughs, “Wrong. This is my land and my tree. That makes the contents of the tree also my property, so perhaps it is you who should move on.”
The man growls, audible to even Teal’c on the crest of the hill, “May I have the pleasure of your name, before I run you through?”
“Daniel of Loxsley, and your name my good sir?”
“Loxsley, well well, welcome home, it is unfortunate however, that you will not get to enjoy the experience for much longer.” Teal’c can hear the menace in the man’s voice, but he can also hear the weakness. The Christian will deal with him, there is no need to hurry to his aid.
“Teal’c! It’s time to renew your vow!” Daniel yells for him, a moment before Teal’c hears the tell tale sound of an arrow hitting flesh twice in quick succession.
“Release the hounds!” The man orders and Teal’c stands slowly, his prayers finished, carefully rolling up his prayer mat and replacing it in its carrier.
“Teal’c!” Daniel yells again, followed by the sound of a sword against leather, followed by the sounds of a short scuffle. “Any time soon would be good!”
There’s the distant sound of swords clashing for a moment before Teal’c hears one of the men drop, a moment before the impromptu battleground comes into view. He smiled faintly as he spots Daniel, holding a sword to another man’s throat. The Christian needed to recognise his own ability.
“Your name, before I run you through.” Daniel comments, a cold smile on his lips.
“Samuel of Gisburn.” The man chokes out and glares up at Daniel, “The sheriff is my cousin and that boy was poaching deer.”
“To my mind, it is a much greater crime to starve a family.” Daniel answers, pressing the blade harder against the man’s throat: just hard enough to draw a little blood.
“Do it Loxsley.” Gisburn growls, “Finish me.”
Daniel makes a disgusted noise before he steps back, “I have seen enough blood spilt to last two lifetimes, I have no wish to spill anymore. Now get off my land and tell the Sheriff what happens to his men when they prey on small children.” Daniel smacks Gisburn hard with the flat of his blade when the man makes a show of taking his time, watching until the man is on his horse and riding away before he turns to Teal’c, eyes narrowed, pointing at him with the sword. “You, you travel ten thousand miles to keep your vow and yet you still leave me to be butchered. I think we have different views on how a man saves another’s life.”
Teal’c raises an eyebrow as he crosses his arms over his chest, “Unless I am mistaken Christian, you are still alive.”
Daniel sighs and shakes his head, trudging warily over to the base of the tree, peering up at the young boy, “Have no fear and come down boy.” He waits patiently until the boy drops to the ground in front of him, leaning on the sword, “Is what he said true boy, did you kill a deer?”
The boy grins, “Hundreds of them.” He states casually, before he turns and runs off across the fields, in the opposite direction from Gisburn.
“You scared him.” Daniel comments, throwing Teal’c a look over his shoulder.
Teal’c raises an eyebrow in reply, moving to stand on the wall, looking down at one of the dead men, a crossbow bolt through his head. “Your homeland is an interesting place.”
“A lot more interesting than it was when I left, I can assure you.” Daniel replies, frowning down at the man for a moment before turning back to the path, “We still have a few miles walk ahead of us before we will reach my home.”
Teal’c nods, “And it will be dark soon.”
Daniel smiles, nodding, “It will. In the meantime, tell me Teal’c, this Drey’ac, who is she?”
Teal’c frowns, “You are most persistent Christian.”
Daniel’s smile widens as he slips the sword into his belt as they walk, “I have learned in our months together, that it pays to be persistent with you.”
Teal’c laughs softly, before inclining his head, “Indeed.”
“So?” Daniel presses again.
“She is married to another, though, once, she was to be my bride.”
Daniel frowns, “What happened?”
Teal’c’s expression turns grim, “Her father changed his mind after my father died, but he did not know that Drey’ac and I had spent a night together, in celebration of our coming union.”
Daniel winces, “I’m sorry Teal’c.”
Teal’c smiles gently, “There is no need to be sorry for me Christian, I would rather have that single moment to remember than have never have lived it at all.”
Daniel smiles, eyes distant, “I think I can understand that.”
--
Teal’c slows as they approach the stone building, the scent of burning too strong to his senses, a feeling of foreboding filling him.
“Father!” Daniel calls, quickening his pace as they reach what must have at one time been the entrance to a fine home, but is now little more than a burnt shell. “Father!?”
Teal’c moves closer to him, one hand resting on the hilt of his sword, dark eyes scanning the shadows as they step through the hollow entranceway into a vast chasm, heaps of still smouldering wood the only sign that the building was ever complete.
“Walter?” Daniel’s voice starts to take on a touch of desperation as he searches the blackened remains of his home for any sign of life. A sharp metallic creak sounds from above them and they both look up, finding themselves staring at a large cage, holding the body of a man. Daniel gasps, shaking his head in mute denial, unconsciously reaching out to grab Teal’c’s arm. “No, it can’t, oh god, no.”
Daniel turns away a moment later, shaking as he buries his face in Teal’c’s robes. Teal’c glances back up at the body for a moment before shuddering faintly, he knows without having to ask who it is. “I am sorry Christian.”
Daniel nods weakly, his breathing uneven as he struggles not to cry.
They both turn a moment later, Teal’c drawing his sword, when something moves in the shadows. “Who’s there?” Daniel’s voice takes on a harder edge, as he continues his battle with his emotions.
“Master Daniel?” A man’s voice, rough and broken calls out.
Daniel stiffens beside Teal’c, frowning, “Walter?”
“Master Daniel!” The man steps out of the shadows, smiling, his relief clear, “I thought God had abandoned us.”
Teal’c frowns and takes a step closer to him, just as Daniel moves forward to grab the man’s clothes, “My Father, Walter. Why didn’t you cut him down?”
Walter falters, “I would have Master Daniel, if I could see.”
Daniel lets him go, looking as through he’s been burnt, “Oh God.” He whispered, seeing the man in front of him clearly for the first time, “Walter.”
“I never thought I’d live to hear your voice again.”
Teal’c reaches out to Daniel, supporting him gently.
“Who did this to you?”
“Samuel of Gisburn, with the Sheriff and his witch looking on.” Walter answers and one hand touches the puckered skin around his eyes gingerly, “They said your father was caught worshipping the Devil, that he signed a confession before they killed him.”
Daniel’s hands clench into fists, “No, my father would never do such a thing!”
Walter nods solemnly, his hands shaking, “I didn’t believe their charges, not even when they took my eyes.”
“You’re a good man Walter.” Daniel reaches out to him, gently and they embrace for a moment before Daniel leads him outside, away from the wreck of their home.
--
Teal’c climbs the blackened walls carefully to cut down Daniel’s father, fixing a rope to lower the cage slowly, treating the body with the respect it deserves. He refuses Daniel’s offer to help, sending the young Christian out to dig the grave, with blind servant for company. This job is not for the son.
He wraps the body with care before carrying it out to the place, at the edge of the woods, which Daniel had chosen, waiting patiently until the grave is deep enough before lowering the body into it, mouthing a prayer as he does so.
Daniel silently reaches in, removing a chain from his father’s neck before he covers the body with soil, offering his own prayer as he does so, with Walter joining him in the last verse. A single tear slips down the young man’s cheek as he kneels beside the grave of his father for a moment before standing and reaching for the cross that he had prepared during the night, thrusting it neatly into the ground at the head of the grave. He hangs the necklace over it reverently before moving to kneel at the foot of the grave, quietly intoning a second prayer, before kissing his fingers and pressing them against the soil, closing his eyes for a moment.
Teal’c and Walter kneel at the grave side, though Teal’c finds himself having to support the older man occasionally. His wounds have never healed as they should and he is weak from hunger, something that Teal’c plans to rectify. No man should starve in the midst of such plenty, nor in the absence of his master.
“He loved you until the end Master Daniel.” Walter’s voice is soft as he speaks, turning his face towards Daniel’s voice, “Do not think otherwise.”
Daniel’s jaw clenches, “I should have been here.”
Walter sighs, sagging against Teal’c. “It would have made little difference I fear young master.”
“He told me that the crusades were a foolish quest, that it was vanity to try and force our religion on others.” Daniel’s voice was soft as he looked up at Teal’c silently asking for his forgiveness. It was, after all, Teal’c’s people upon whom he had intended to force his religion.
Teal’c inclines his head slowly, a smile touching the corner his mouth. He knows, better than any, just how much the Christian has learned in his time away.
“We need to leave Master Daniel, head south, for Gisburn will surely be looking for revenge.” Walter comments, swaying slightly in the breeze.
Daniel nods, “You’re right Walter, of course.”
Daniel crosses himself before standing, lifting the chain from its rest upon the wooden cross and hanging it around his own neck. Teal’c’s hand fists as he holds himself back from comforting his friend as he would were they elsewhere, in a different time.
Daniel meets Teal’c’s gaze careful, expression grim, “You should consider going home my friend, my world has been turned upside down and I can not ask you to come with me where I am going.”
“You will only get your self killed if you go alone Christian.” Teal’c comments solemnly, his eyes saying more than his words can, “Besides, there is no longer anything left for me to go home to.”
Daniel smiles weakly nodding his understanding before he turns back to the grave. He draws the small knife that he has carried since Acre, staring at it for a moment before his jaw clenches and he presses the blade into the flesh of his hand quickly, allowing several drips of his own blood to fall onto the new grave, gaze fixed on the wooden cross. “Upon my blood, I will not rest until my father is avenged.”
--
Teal’c lengthens his stride to bring him up beside Daniel, who is leading the servant gently, his expression troubled. “If I may ask, where are we going Christian?”
Daniel glances at him quickly, “Mark’s home. Despite everything that has happened, I still have a promise to keep.” His free hand reaches up to touch the ring, on its chain around his neck, half hidden by the cross.
“Indeed.” Teal’c agrees.
“We should find food and shelter there as well.” Daniel adds, for Walter’s benefit.
Teal’c nods anyway before turning his attention to the large building in front of them, idly noting that it is a much bigger and grander abode than Daniel’s home could ever have been.
“It’s been almost six years since you and Mark left together Master Daniel.” Walter comments, blinding turning his face towards Daniel who nods, frowning.
“You’re right Walter it is, but hopefully his family have not changed so much that they would turn us away.”
Walter nods, “You bring news of Mark to them.”
Daniel smiles weakly, “But it is not good news Walter.”
“No, Master Daniel, it is not.” Walter agrees softly, lowering his head.
--
Daniel leads Walter to the wall, waiting for him to get his bearings before he releases the man’s arm and turns to knock on the heavy wooden door.
Teal’c steps back, keeping as close to the wall as possible, knowing that his presence will most likely not be welcomed. He watches silently as a hatch in the door slides back and an old woman peers out at them, frowning.
“No more beggars.” She slams the hatch shut once more, not seeming to notice Daniel’s stunned expression.
Teal’c raised an eyebrow silently, ignoring the warning glare Daniel throws at him as he steps forward to knock again, one hand braced on the door just below the hatch.
The hatch slides open slowly, and the woman glares out at them, eyes accusing.
“Tell the lady of the house that Daniel of Loxsley is at the door.” Daniel speaks quickly, hand moving up to block the hatch and prevent her from closing it again.
“Her ladyship is not here.”
Daniel frowns, “Then is the child Samantha at home?”
The woman’s eyes narrow, “Maybe she is, maybe she isn’t.” She raps out without hesitation, before slamming the hatch shut on Daniel’s hand.
Daniel flinches, shaking his hand and glaring at the door, muttering under his breath in what Teal’c recognises to be French.
“The hospitality in this country is about as warm as the weather.” Teal’c comments dryly, glancing up at the overcast sky in disgust. If this weather is the cost of such a green landscape Teal’c would much rather live in the dry, warm climate of his home.
Daniel sighs, rubbing his hand for a moment before he throws one last glare at the door and reaches out to Walter. “We’re leaving.”
Teal’c inclines his head in silent agreement, “That would seem a wise course of action.”
They both turn a moment later, when the sound of the hatch sliding open reaches their ears, “Leave your weapons.” The woman commands as they approach the door once more, her gaze flinty.
Daniel and Teal’c both automatically start stripping themselves of weapons before the woman interrupts, frowning at Teal’c. “Just him.” She nods at Daniel, who sighs and wordlessly holds his sword and dagger out to Teal’c.
--
Walter slumps against the wall, gripping his walking stick, expression pinched. “A curse on Moors and Saracens. If not for their ungodly ways Master Daniel would never have left.”
Teal’c raises an eyebrow silently, amused by the man’s unknowing insult.
“Tell me, what manner of name is Teal’c? Irish, Welsh, Cornish?”
Teal’c smiles, “Moorish.”
Walter jumps, clutching his stick harder as a blush touched his features. “My apologies, I meant no harm.”
“Do not worry my friend, it was a war between my people and yours that took Master Daniel away, for that you have reason enough to hate my people.” Teal’c assures him gently and they fall back into a comfortable silence.
They both start a moment later when Daniel yells from within the building and Teal’c automatically throws himself at the door, cursing his own stupidity.
“Point me towards danger Teal’c, I am ready!” Walter lifts his stick confidently, taking a step towards Teal’c as he continues his attack on the door, grunting faintly each time his shoulder impacts with the solid wood.
The wood splinters on his fifth try, swinging open and the woman behind it retreats back into the house as Teal’c draws his sword and charges in, only to freeze as a strangely dressed woman knees Daniel hard in the groin, dropping him to the floor.
Teal’c moves forward, only to stop as Daniel holds up a hand, wincing as he straightens, gazing at the woman. “Hello Samantha.”
--
Teal’c silently moves away from Daniel and the young woman as they step out of the house, knowing that Daniel will want some privacy to tell her the news he has brought her. He guides Walter carefully over to a bench in the centre of the courtyard before crossing to one of the ladders braced against the wall and climbing it easily. From the wall top he can watch both Daniel and their surroundings with ease.
He settles himself onto the cold stone before searching through his things for the two glass lenses and their leather surround. He checks both pieces of glass carefully, making sure that they haven’t suffered any damage during the journey before carefully fixing them into the surround, glancing sideways as the woman raises her voice.
“All that I remember of you is a spoiled bully who used to burn my hair as a child!”
Teal’c raises an eyebrow, he is not surprised by the woman’s words, though he admits he can see little of the boy she describes in the man he knows. War and imprisonment can change a man.
Teal’c calmly turns his back on them as they lower their voices once more, frowning as he catches a glimpse of movement out of the corner of his eye. He brings his telescope to his eyes quickly, focusing it on the small group of horses he can now see, growling as he spots a familiar face amongst them. “Christian!”
It takes Daniel a moment to join him on the wall and Teal’s continues to follow the progress of the horsemen with his eyes as he holds the telescope out to Daniel, pointing to them, “Look!”
Daniel hesitates for a moment before lifting the lenses to his eye, almost dropping the telescope as he focuses it on the horsemen. Teal’c watches silently for a moment as Daniel draws his sword and makes a feeble attempt to stab at the approaching enemy, lacking any real understanding of the item in his hands.
Teal’c snatches the telescope out of Daniel’s hand, shaking his head, “However did your uneducated kind ever take Jerusalem?”
Daniel smiles ruefully in response, recognising his mistake, “God knows.”
“What is it?” Samantha calls from below, shading her eyes as she stares up at them, long blonde hair blowing in the wind, “What can you see?”
Teal’c and Daniel exchange a look before jumping off the wall into the pile of hay below.
“It’s Nottingham’s soldiers.” Daniel answers reluctantly as they jog across the yard, he stops in front of her, while Teal’c moves towards a small group of saddled horses, which are secured to a series of posts in the ground close to Walter.
“Coming here?” Samantha questions, disbelievingly, “Is this your protection Daniel?”
Daniel winces faintly, “I killed some of the sheriff’s men.”
Samantha sighs, shoulders slumping slightly, “Oh dear.”
Teal’c smiles to himself, as he picks the two strongest looking horses before gently guiding Walter to one of them.
“I’m afraid I’ve put you in danger.” Daniel continues, his voice tinged with guilt.
“I can take care of myself, just go.” Samantha answers impatiently as Teal’c mounts his chosen horse before pulling Walter gently up behind him, watching out of the corner of his eye as Daniel takes a step away from them, sword drawn. Teal’c sighs, leaning sideways to grab the reins of the second horse and kicking his own forward, drawing the young woman’s attention.
“That’s my horse!” She objects, meeting Teal’c’s gaze.
Teal’c smiles, inclining his head, “A truly magnificent animal my lady.”
She sighs, glaring at him for a moment before she gives him, turning back to Daniel, “Go!”
“I’m sworn to protect you.” Daniel answers, not even bothering to turn to face her.
She rolls her eyes, stepping forward to grab Daniel’s arm and push him towards Teal’c. “I say no more boyish gestures.”
Daniel hesitates, meeting her gaze, stubbornly, “I’m not leaving.”
She raises an eyebrow in return, before turning towards the approaching riders, “Help they’re stealing my horses!” She screams, pushing Daniel roughly.
Daniel stares at her for a moment before he finally gives in, “You’re so kind ma’am.” He jogs over to the horse and easily swings himself up into the saddle before taking the reins from Teal’c with a smile, throwing one last meaningful look at the young woman a few yards away before he urges his horse forward, away from the approaching soldiers.
Part Three
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