E is for Earth

"Welcome home, SG1."

General Jack O'Neill walked toward the gate as the blue event horizon disappeared. SG1 were in pretty good shape, but he could tell they were exhausted.

"Carter," he said, "what's the situation?"

His former team mate looked up at him, having hunched over to brace herself on her own knees when she was safe on the ramp.

"Holy Hanna!" She exclaimed, in spite of herself.

Jack cocked a curious eyebrow. Usually when he asked for a report, Carter would immediately give him one. Often remarkably accurate and concise considering that missions could really take it out of you.

"Sir," she added with an awkward smile, "that planet was a nightmare. I'm never leaving Earth again."

Jack chuckled. Sam was much more relaxed with him than she had ever been before, and he enjoyed it more than would be appropriate for him to say. Teal'c, who in his usual fashion had stayed silent, now spoke in his deep voice.

"Indeed. Colonel Carter is correct, O'Neill. The terrain on PX4-732 was most unforgiving."

Jack nodded in understanding.

"Welcome back to Earth, kids!" he said as he made a grand arm gesture. "Don't make yourselves too comfortable."

Sam followed behind him as he made his way out of the gate room, the infirmary awaited her.

Earth, she thought to herself. Home sweet home. Until next time.