Best First Contact Ever Chapter 1: Default Chapter, a startrek: enterprise fanfic

Best First Contact Ever - Chapter One

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This mission was atypical; it wasn't normal for the first contact mission to have gone so well. Captain Archer and T'Pol met the Benovulans just eight hours ago. During that time, he was impressed with their hospitality and eagerness to chat it up. The proceedings were going well. Better yet, Archer felt like he'd met allies – people he liked and could turn to. They were just as advanced as the humans, far behind the Vulcans and had the same optimistic spirit than humans had. They had many of the same values. Indeed, the Benovulans seemed to appreciate art and music and had treated Archer and T'Pol to a few museum tours. And now, they were throwing a party in honor of their new friends – the Earthlings and the Vulcans.

These people had a lot to offer. Maybe one in particular, a councilwoman named Larana. She'd been showing them around the city almost all day and had been talking with Archer in particular.

'Yes, this was the best first contact ever,' thought Archer looking over the spread laid before him. He picked up something and gnawed on it.

Larana walked over to him. "I see you found the tlanicks, Captain."

"Tlanicks?" he asked smiling at her.

"Yes, it's a sweet snack. Very tasty aren't they?"

"Mmmhmmm. Tastes like a cookie," he said. He saw her confusion and continued, "A dessert from my planet. And, since we're at a party, maybe you could call me Jon."

She grinned. "That's lovely. I suppose this is a nickname?"

He nodded. "Yes. Earthlings have first and last names. In my country a person's first name is a given name and our last name is from our father.

"Jon Archer? What does Jon mean?"

He laughed, "Uhm, it's short for Jonathan." He decided not to mention the other meanings for Jon.

"I notice your first officer does not call you by your first name," said Larana.

"It might be inappropriate, I'm her commanding officer. Besides, my first name or nickname is familiar," he said. "T'Pol and I don't have that kind of relationship."

"You call her T'Pol rather than sub-commander," said Larana.

"Well, I think of her as a friend."

She walked toward him until they were only a foot apart. "Oh? Only a friend? I thought maybe there was something more between you."

"No. You know, your eyes are the color of your sunsets. Very beautiful."

"Are you trying to charm me?" she asked.

"Why … isn't it working?" he whispered.

She looked at his mouth and wondered how his species showed affection. She laughed, "It's definitely working."

He thought she was stunning. She had dark brown hair, violet eyes and sparkling white teeth. She looked mostly human, except for the ridges that spanned from her hairline and down her neck. But, her hair seemed to cover most of it up. He was completely entranced by her.

She twirled her hair in her fingers as he repeated to himself as if in a dream, 'Best first contact mission ever.'

"Jon, there is a drink my people have … somewhat of a tradition in circumstances such as these. I was hoping you'd have some?"

"I'd love some." He wasn't surprised the people had a drink for first contact. The Benovulans were sentimental people.

"I'll be right back."

Jon looked her over as she slinked away. Her gown seemed to accentuate every curve. It had a certain luminescence to it, shimmering underneath the moons' light in blue and green. He mused about how she's been touching him all day. She leaned on his arm as she walked through the art museum with him. He thought she'd been flirting with him, but wasn't sure if perhaps this was a custom or she was interested in him. It seemed pretty obvious now that she was interested in him. At least, he hoped so. He nibbled on the last of his cookie as he saw her approaching with two glasses.

She handed him one and touched his face. "Drink this quickly."

He smiled into her hand. "Are you coming onto to me?"

"Why … isn't it working?"

He chuckled, "It's working." He touched the drink to his lips and titled his head back. He closed his eyes at the bitter flavor, wincing.

"Since this might go to your head, it's best if you concentrate on me. You may feel lightheaded, but don't worry," she said.

"Captain," said T'Pol behind him. "May I have a word with you?"

He turned around to look at her, "Yes?"

"Jon, stay and talk with me," suggested Larana.

Captain Archer followed his first officer away from the table. Larana's hand reached out but seemed to grasp thin air.

T'Pol lowered her voice, "Captain, it may seem … inappropriate to concentrate on Councilwoman Larana."

Archer felt a little dizzy. He stumbled slightly as T'Pol steadied him quickly and let her hands fall to her side. "Are you all right?"

He looked into her eyes and said hoarsely, "Yes, I … I feel fine."

Larana walked over and placed her hand on his back, "Jon … are you okay?" She seemed annoyed at the Vulcan's presence.

Archer nodded. "Yeah, I'm okay. Thanks."

T'Pol brought out her scanner and waved it over Archer. "Captain, I suggest we go immediately back to Enterprise."

Archer looked like he was going to object and then acquiesced. "Okay."

Larana was shocked; "You're leaving?"

"Yes," he said. "I appreciate your hospitality. Sorry I have to rush off like this Councilwoman. Perhaps when this Xindi business is finished, we can return someday."

She nodded. "I hope so as well." She glared at T'Pol. "Jon, may I have a moment alone with you?" She touched his arm.

"Captain?" asked T'Pol walking toward the shuttle.

Archer frowned, "I should be leaving, Councilwoman."

With that, Archer said goodbye to the other councilmen and women and thanked them. As they walked toward the shuttle door, Jon smiled at the Vulcan and said, "After you."

T'Pol nodded curtly and went into the shuttle first. T'Pol sat at the helm. "Since you are not feeling well, I suggest I pilot the shuttle."

He smiled, "Okay."

She turned and began waving her fingers over the console. He sat down and looked at the console in front of him. "Enterprise is at bearing 23, 33 mark 7."

She punched the information into the computer and began heading out.

"Did you enjoy the planet?" he asked to the back of her head.

"Enjoy? I thought the planet was aesthetically pleasing and the people congenial. Their museums were … fascinating."

He chuckled, "I'm glad you liked it." He turned to the comm. "Archer to Enterprise."

"Hey, Cap'n. Everything go well?" asked Trip.

"Sure did. We should be home in about fifteen minutes."

"We got your signal on scanners. We'll leave the lights on for ya," said Trip. "Tucker out."

Archer looked at the back of T'Pol's head. "So, which museum did you like most?"

T'Pol finished placing the controls on autopilot and turned around. She noticed Archer was grinning at her. She raised her eyebrow. "I thought the science museum was intriguing."

"Thought you might say that one. What did you like most about it? The astronomy exhibit?"

"It was all of equal interest. Nothing stood out in my mind."

He nodded. "I enjoyed the art museum. It's amazing how far away the planet is, but how similar it is to Earth. There was one artist – Flaren that reminded me of Chagall. Have you run across a planet that has reminded you of Vulcan?"

"Of course. There are many planets that are hot and have deserts, including Earth."

"I wish I could take you to the Mojave, T'Pol. I think you might like that one."

She turned around and looked back at the controls. "Perhaps. How are you feeling, Captain? You seem unusually … talkative."

"Really, I feel fine. But, I appreciate your concern. And as for unusually talkative, I'm just … a … seeing what you prefer. You know, making small talk."

"I see," she said.

As they approached Enterprise, T'Pol began the docking procedures and Archer remained quiet. They walked off the launch pad and into the small chamber before Decon as Dr. Phlox scanned them from the comfort of a small booth adjacent to the decontamination room. His voice came over the comm.

"Captain, Sub-commander … it seems something traveled along with you from the surface. Please head into Decon and begin using the gel. I need to check a few readings. I'll be back shortly."

As the doctor walked away from the window, T'Pol said, "Captain, you should also have the doctor give you an examination."

He smiled, "Worried about me?"

She did not respond.

"Well, okay. I'll talk to Dr. Phlox after we've finished."

She raised her eyebrow.

Archer'd been feeling like his stomach itched all the way back home. The planet had a way of agreeing with T'Pol. She looked radiant. As he entered Decon he began disrobing. He looked behind him to see her stripped down to her Starfleet-issued briefs.

He sucked in his breath, glancing over her semi-nude body. Sweat formed on his brow as he noticed his body began reacting. With embarrassment, he turned away and began to slap the gel on his legs and arms. He tried to clear his mind of pleasant thoughts.

"Captain, would you mind?" asked T'Pol.

He turned around as she lifted up her shirt showing more of her back. "I cannot reach that area," she replied.

He dipped his hand into the gel. "Uhm, sure," he said working his fingers on her back. She smelled like nutmeg.

She put her shirt down. "Thank you. Turn around so I may assist you."

He turned quickly, before she could notice his body was reacting even more. As he felt her hands knead his flesh, he felt his body completely cave in. He was turned on; he wanted her to keep touching him. Her breath was on his neck.

"Captain, I apologize for interrupting you and the councilwoman during the social engagement. I did not want the council to … misunderstand your relationship with her. It would have been inappropriate for you to engage in anything further with her."

Her hands danced over his lower back.

"Inappropriate?" he barely eked out, forcing himself to walk toward the window.

"Yes, councilmen and women are leaders, Captain. According to their culture, the attention you were paying her seemed to indicate you were courting her." She paused. "Councilwomen are not courted, unless you wished to become one of her mates."

"Mates?" he asked, wetting his lips.

"Yes," she explained. "I was talking with Councilmen Dralan. He indicated each of them had a large … entourage. Anyone in power has many mates."

He wiped his brow as Phlox came back to the window, surprised Archer was looking out. "You're clear to leave."

Archer lamely said, "Doc, I'd like to stay and talk to you for a moment."

"Of course, Captain," replied Phlox.

Archer turned his head and noticed T'Pol filed out. The door slid shut, leaving Decon empty except for him. He breathed a deep sigh.

"How can I help you?" asked Phlox watching Archer.

"Listen, I've been feeling a little …."

"I have noticed an increase in heart rate. In addition, I've noticed a small increase in testosterone and blood supply to your…."

Archer cut him off, "I don't know what's wrong with me."

Phlox jerked his head. "Seems perfectly natural. I notice it occasionally happens to human males who go through Decon. In fact, Lt. Reed …."

Archer whispered, "It doesn't happen to me."

"Captain, when you and I discussed your dream with the sub-commander … you indicated it was a fantasy in Decon, was it not?"

Archer sighed, "Yes." He looked down at his feet.

"Ah, you see? Perhaps your subconscious was reminded of this situation."

Archer nodded. "Maybe."

Phlox stared up at the monitor. "Seems that little problem seems to have rectified itself."

Jon scowled at the doctor and walked into the next room. T'Pol looked like she was having difficulty zipping up the back of her outfit. Her hand barely touched the zipper as she tried in vain to urge it up.

"Here," he said. He put his hand on her waist and the other on the zipper. He lifted the metal slowly noticing his hand on her hip. He felt his body beginning to give in again and walked quickly to his locker and pulled out a uniform. He stepped in, bringing it to his hips with a sigh of relief.

"Thank you," she said.

He looked back and gave a half-grin. "You know, purple looks very nice on you."

She raised her eyebrow.

He put his shirt on and brought the uniform up over his arms. His eyes danced over her figure before he could stop them. He rubbed the back of his neck, trying to snap himself out of it.

"Captain, I could complete the report on the Benovulans and catalogue them."

"No, you don't need to stay up late; I can."

"I would be 'up' anyway. Commander Tucker is coming to my quarters at 2000."

"Neuropressure?" said Archer, realizing his lip had curled up. "I would've thought Trip's sleeping problem would've vanished by now."

"No. He still requires treatment."

Archer knew how much she liked to show off her ears and tucked some hair behind her left one. He casually continued, "I don't think you should continue." He blinked quickly at her, seemingly lost in her ears.

T'Pol raised both eyebrows and stepped away. "Captain, I strongly suggest you see Dr. Phlox. You do not seem like yourself."

"If that's what you want, I'll go see him."

"I will accompany you."

He walked to the door and waited for her to walk through. He put his hand on the small of her back escorting her through the portal. She stiffened at his touch, but said nothing.

They walked down the hall silently, although she could tell Archer seemed nearly transfixed on her – spellbound. He would walk a few paces and then turn to look at her.

As they reached Sickbay, Dr. Phlox looked at the pair. "Ahhh, Captain Archer and Sub-commander T'Pol. May I help you?"

Archer seemed to let his attention wander back to T'Pol and smiled dopily at her. The sub-commander turned to Archer and stifled a sigh, "The captain has been acting strangely since his visit on the planet. He had an incident that perhaps has some bearing on his current behavior."

Dr. Phlox squinted his eyes at the human. "Captain, why don't you have a seat over here." The doctor pointed at a bed near them.

He nodded and hopped onto the bed. Dr. Phlox retrieved some instruments. "What's his behavior been like?"

Archer smiled, "I feel fine really. This was T'Pol's idea."

She furrowed her brows and crossed her arms. "He has been acting inappropriately."

"Inappropriate in what way?" asked Phlox.

"He appears to be … touching me more than usual."

Jon said, "I don't think I have been."

T'Pol seemed hesitant. "He has seemed somewhat … affectionate."

Phlox grinned widely, "Affectionate toward just you?"

"No, he also seemed rather … interested in one of the Benovulans."

"I wasn't interested in her. This is silly; I feel fine," said Archer.

"What incident happened on the planet?" asked Phlox.

"I stumbled slightly for a moment because I felt dizzy," explained the captain.

"Dizzy? Any cause for the lightheadedness?" asked the doctor.

"None that I know of," said Archer. "Maybe the cookie I ate or the drink."

The doctor gave Archer a once-over -- looking in his ears, nose and throat. "Lie down."

Archer did so. The screen lit up like a Christmas tree beeping and buzzing. Phlox tapped his chin in thought. "That's odd."

"What's odd?" asked Archer.

Phlox looked over at T'Pol and said, "Would you mind leaving us alone?"

T'Pol inclined her head politely. "Of course." And with that, she began to walk out.

"See ya later," said Archer, rising up slightly to watch her walk out the door.

The monitor changed dramatically. Phlox put his hands on his hips. "What just happened?"

Archer looked at him. "I don't understand." He did feel slightly depressed.

"Your readings have almost returned to normal."

"I feel pretty normal. I don't know what all the fuss is about," said Jon as a frown formed on his lips.

"Captain, a moment ago, it looked like your testosterone, dopamine and adrenaline levels were all very high for a human. Your blood supply increased slightly, as had your heart rate."

"What would that indicate?"

Phlox grinned widely again, "That your body was possibly preparing for exercise or maybe to mate. The dopamine is an interesting deviation. I'll do some research. You said you had a cookie and drink before the onset of dizziness?"

"Yes -- tlanicks and a drink. I'm not sure of the name of the drink. Councilwoman Larana indicated it was for first contact."

Phlox had a theory; he walked over to the comm to test it out. "Dr. Phlox to Sub-commander T'Pol."

"Sub-commander T'Pol here." He noticed Jon's readings kicked up a notch.

He grinned. "I'd like to see you for a moment in Sickbay."

"On my way," she replied.

As soon as T'Pol entered, Archer's readings shot up again. His heart rate increased, his dopamine levels were outrageously high … everything was where it was a few minutes ago, if not higher.

"Very interesting," said Phlox.

T'Pol asked, "You wanted to see me?"

"Actually, I wanted you to perform an experiment, which you did."

She raised her eyebrow. "Oh?"

He walked over to the comm again. "Crewmen Cutler to Sickbay."

The Vulcan said, "I do not understand your experiment."

Ensign Cutler walked into Sickbay. "Hey, Phlox. You wanted to see me?"

He grinned, "Yes." He noticed Archer's readings were the same and his gaze seemed to be stuck on T'Pol.

"Doctor, I suggest you explain …." began T'Pol.

Phlox cut her off. "Sub-commander, could you wait outside for a moment … until I call you back in. I'll explain everything in just a few more minutes."

She walked out, and Archer's bio-signs fell back to normal, or below normal.

"Flazalnitz!" he said (as if it were Eureka).

He popped his head out of Sickbay and said to the first officer, "I believe I have discovered the problem."

She inclined her head and walked back into to Sickbay.

"Doc, what's going on?" asked Archer.

Phlox smiled, "Ensign Cutler, thank you for your time. I'll see you at dinner." She nodded and left.

"Doctor?" asked T'Pol.

"Sub-commander, I think you should investigate the tlanicks and beverage Archer was given. I think someone gave him an aphrodisiac. And, I believe you are now the recipient of these affections, Sub-commander."

"What?" asked Archer sitting up.

"Can an aphrodisiac be so … specific?" she asked.

"I would not have thought so, and I'd like to run some additional tests, but seeing you or hearing your voice forces his body to respond with a high heart rate, increased body temperature and other things associated with possibly love or mating. The dopamine is tricky. His body is actually rewarding his … amorous feelings for you." He looked at Archer. "Does any of this seem plausible? Have you had … feelings for T'Pol since your return?"

Archer looked shocked. "I don't know." He thought about her affect on him in Decon. "I guess." He stared into her green eyes and felt himself turn to putty, finding it impossible to look away. "Yes."

T'Pol asked, "Is this reversible?"

Phlox shrugged, "I don't know. I would assume since it's ingested it is, but I'll need more time to find out. Captain, I'll need to take a few blood samples and a DNA sample."

Archer nodded in agreement as T'Pol spoke, "I will begin investigating the tlanicks and drink."

Phlox walked away to gather more equipment. T'Pol looked at Archer trying to determine what he was thinking. "I will see you on the bridge, Captain."

He tried not to look and just nodded his head as she filed out. As soon as she left, he felt a little depressed again, possibly more depressed than last time she left.

Archer asked, "Is there something you can do to counteract this?"

Phlox walked over. "No. Not yet. I know this is difficult for you."

He shrugged.

The doctor took something that looked like a hypospray and began collecting blood from Archer's left arm. "I would imagine you are currently feeling sad?"

"How'd you know?"

"Your dopamine levels. When your body stops producing as much, it probably feels like you're … depressed."

Archer nodded. "I also feel somewhat euphoric when she's around."

"Yes, the human body is quite wonderful really. Your dopamine would be considered a drug on Denobulan, but it seems to help you deal with pain more easily and rewards you for eating, sex and a multitude of other things that are vital to your species' survival," said the physician collecting the last of the blood samples. He walked over and put them away.

"In fact, the Fangors of Lorad have been known to strip the lymphatic system searching for something that resembles your dopamine." His smile turned creepy, "I'm sure you'd fetch a very high price in the markets on Lorad right now."

Archer frowned, "Uhm, any advice for me?"

Phlox brought over a small instrument, smaller than a hypospray. "No, continue on as normal. Be aware of your feelings of love and lust. It may be difficult for you to avoid the sub-commander, but it would be for the best."

Archer knew the drill. He held out his hand and allowed a skin sample to be taken to check his DNA.

Phlox suggested, "Maybe you should go to your quarters and wait this out."

"No, I wouldn't be able to sleep anyway. I'll be in the communications room; I won't bother T'Pol there." Just saying her name gave him a little jolt. He sighed.

Phlox nodded. "I'll let you know if I find anything."

Archer put his sleeve down and hopped off the table, striding out the door.

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