Jack fought to keep his eyes open, his body moving in tandem with the steady gait of the horse. The previous evening, knowing they would be up with the sun, SG-1 had taken a page from Daniel's book, barely sipping the celebration moonshine. Much to his dismay Jack had found Janala constantly at his side, feeding him, refilling his cup, once again pulling him into the ring of dancers. He finally called on Daniel for help.

"It's no use Jack. I explained that although you're flattered you two can't have a relationship because you belong to Sam."

"And?"

"And she pointed out you're still a free man since you haven't mated." Daniel's difficulty in keeping the smile from his face was obvious. "She says your feelings for the woman warrior can't be very strong because you don't touch her or look at her like a lover."

"What!" Jack's eyes automatically sought out the female major where she sat on the other side of the fire, smiling as several woman exclaimed over the gifts the team had brought them. Catching her eye he motioned for her to join them, trying to look like a man in love as he watched her rise gracefully to her feet, winding her way through the crowd. Jack was a normal red blooded man and Sam was definately a beautiful intelligent woman. It wouldn't have taken much prodding to pursue a relationship with her if she wasn't under his command and if Sarah didn't still own a large portion of his heart.

'Well this is going to take some explaining' he thought Before his courage failed, he pulled Sam into his arms, his lips claiming hers in what he hoped convinced Janala was a passionate kiss while trying to remain detached. Stunned, Sam's arms automatically wrapped around his neck and she leaned against him, her face flushed as he broke off the kiss.

"It's time for bed sweetheart." His arms still around his second in command, he turned to Daniel who was doing his damnedest to appear as if this was an everyday occurance. "I trust you'll convey our excuses to our hosts. We'll see you back at the tent in the appropriate amount of time."

They wound their way around the lake entering the woods at the end farthest from the village. Angling into the foothills, the trail was barely wide enough for the travelers to ride single file, making conversation without shouting impossible. No one, including Daniel who only asked an occasional question seemed in the mood for talking.

However, puzzled, he had questioned, "Shelaya, when Meelay told the history of your people he didn't say which of the great tribes built the temple."

"It has always been here Daniel."