All around him Sheppard could hear various conversations going on. Across the way Kyle and Rhonda were discussing security concerns, as Betas or seconds, that was their job, Ronan was listening attentively, even if he said nothing. Down the way Cordelia, Heidi and Teyla were discussing children or cubs as Cordelia and Heidi put it with the Furlia, who also used that term. Apparently, the joys and travails of children remained the same regardless of galaxy or race. Tor and Faith were discussing hunting techniques, which also seemed similar. When he heard Xander and Thalnan's conversation through, he paid more attention. A potential enemy was definitely of concern. Interesting way of referring to the battle. Titanic. But if it involved hundreds of ships, than it was also accurate.

But it was the news that the augmentation procedure that made them Protectors was taught to their ancestors by the Ancients themselves that made him sit up and notice. He had thought it was a fairly recently created method, that it was thousands of years old and taught to them by the Ancients meant that they had information regarding the Ancients that they weren't sharing with the expedition. That would not go over well with Elizabeth. And what did two souled mean? Why did Thalnan think they smelled like animals? That didn't make any sense. When he saw Xander use his telepathic ability, Sheppard realized Xander was doing an end run around Classified. That meant the President knew and was also keeping it quiet. Why? What was the big deal? He was definitely going to ask Xander. Even non answers could give information.

Then a runner from the scientists checking the 'gate came to explain that it had suffered some minor damage. Some crystals needed to be replaced. Once that was done, it would be working again. Welcome news. Now all they needed was Rodney to finish calculating the origin point. That reminded Sheppard, these people should know the origin symbol, at least what it was a million years ago. That could help Rodney with figuring out the address right? He decided to ask.

"Excuse me, I was wondering. We need to know what the origin symbol for your galaxy is for the address to return to the Pegasus Galaxy. I was wondering if you knew what it was?"

"Yes, of course." Thalnan said. "Thank you for reminding me. I will have our scientists meet with you regarding that tomorrow morning. That will give them time to complete their repairs. If that works for you?"

"Should be fine, thank you. Just have them talk to McKay here, he's our scientist. They speak the same language."

An amused ripple moved thru the Furlia. "They do seem to have their own way of speaking do they not? I have noticed this too. A scientist from any of the people we are familiar with will behave similarly. It is how their minds work. Well, if everyone is finished, I will show you to the resting places we have prepared for you. We use them for visitors."

The group followed Thalnan to several beautiful and colorful domed buildings. One large one surrounded by several smaller ones. "This large one you can use for private meetings among yourselves. The smaller ones are for night resting. I hope they are comfortable for you. It has been a long time since humans have visited us and we are uncertain what would work best for you. We had some information in our archives and we consulted those in preparing these."

"I thank you for your efforts. They alone would be enough. We are soldiers. What you provide will be luxury for us, I'm sure." Xander said, still in diplomatic mode.

Thalnan nodded, his scent indicating satisfaction and left them alone.

The group gathered in the large building to discuss the events of the day.

"I was under the impression that your augmentation procedure was a recent development. Your answers to Thalnan Indicated that the Ancients taught your ancestors. Why can't you tell us more about it?" Sheppard asked.

"Beside the fact that President Classified the information? The procedure only works on people of Ancient descent. And only on children. It has be begun by age ten and completed by age fifteen. But there are those out there that think that if they can study us, they can replicate it some how. A few years ago, several NID agents tried to kidnap our daughter, Abigail. They wanted to study her. Protectors abilities aren't inherited under normal circumstances. But they thought that they could figure it out. When Jesse came thru the Mirror, some others tried again. If the President ever clears you to know more, I'll tell you. Until then, I'm sorry, I can't say anymore."

"I understand. Don't worry about it. I was actually more concerned about a potential new enemy. If these Teetanians are still around, we might run into them at some point and if they control several galaxies, there's every chance they could be."

"Teetanians is an interesting name." Kyle commented.

"I thought that too. And the way Thalnan described the battle. Titanic. Must of have been a really massive fleet."

"Well, that's a thought for another day. Morning will be here all too soon. So we might as well get some rest while we can." Xander said.

Tired yawns greeted his statement and with murmurings of various good nights, everyone headed off to bed.