Note: Here we go Chapter 7. I almost included this with chapter 6 but I
thought it might be too long. Thank you so much for all your reviews and
suggestions.
CHAPTER 7
Phlox and Archer ran to the debris and stared into the hole Murphy was standing in. "Is he alive?" Archer asked urgently.
"Yea, but his situation isn't good. I've never seen anything like it. He's wrapped like a cocoon by a piece of the stairwell and one of the ends has pierced his stomach. If we aren't careful we'll cut him in two trying to release him."
"Captain, I need to get in there and assess his condition," Phlox said.
Archer nodded and helped Phlox climb down the rubble into the hole. He made his way over to a cleared area and heard an annoyed voice saying, "What are ya'll waitin' for, get me the hell outta here now."
Phlox said amused, "Now Commander, they can't do anything until I take a look at you." The rescue workers moved aside and Phlox lost his smile for an instant when he saw the commander's predicament. Trip was lying on his side his hair was covered in dirt, shiny pieces of piping encircled his arms and chest spiraling around to his knees embracing him as tightly as a boa constrictor. Sweat dripped off his face made red with the effort he was making to draw in and expel each breath. A piece of the pipe was spilt open and a jagged edge was pressed into his stomach as a pin is stuck through the body of a butterfly. Blood bubbled from around the edges with each breath Trip expelled.
Squatting beside him, Phlox pulled out his medical scanner and ran it over Trip's body. "Well Doc, am I gonna live?"
"I wouldn't have it any other way Commander," Phlox stated optimistically. "Are you in much pain?"
"My chest hurts a little when I breathe but I can't feel much else." He looked at the people around him becoming agitated, "where's the Cap'm, is he alright?"
Placing his hand on the Commander's shoulder Phlox said, "Calm yourself Commander the Captain is fine as are the crew, aside from some bumps and bruises. The Captain is anxiously waiting for news of your condition."
Relaxing under Phlox's hand Trip closed his eyes and in a distressed voice said, "tell the Cap'm I'm sorry, I don't know what happened."
Phlox reassuringly said, "It's alright Commander, I'm sure the Captain doesn't blame you." The rescue crew exchanged disbelieving looks and chorused, "yea, listen to Doc."
Opening his eyes Trip chortled weakly his face quickly contorted to a grimace as a coughing spasm wracked his body. Flecks of blood stained his lips and his breathing became more labored. Phlox ran his scanner back over Trip noticing the drop in his vitals, "Commander I'm going to give you something to help you breath easier then I'm going to see how soon we can get you out of here." Phlox pulled a hypo spray from his med kit and injected the medicine into his neck. Trip's breathing slowed and he nodded his appreciation to the Doctor.
Phlox made his way back to the Captain and Murphy who were discussing ways to cut Trip out of his prison. Archer helped Phlox out of the hole, "How is he?"
"His situation is unstable Captain. He's bleeding internally and his breathing is labored. I don't think he'll last more than 30 minutes."
Archer's jaw tightened, "Murphy I want him out of there in 10 minutes; I don't care what it takes, understand?"
"Yes Sir," Murphy replied. He jumped into the hole and disappeared.
"Captain," Phlox said urgently, "I want you to be there when they release him."
Archer looked puzzled, "Why?"
"The commander has a spontaneous nature, wouldn't you agree?"
Still puzzled, Archer smiled, "put like that Doc it sounds like a compliment. I can think of several synonyms that might not be as flattering. Is this leading somewhere?"
"Indeed it is. He's been trapped for quite a while and he's tiring. The effort he is making to fight is breaking down. I want you to stir him up, agitate him. I want him concentrating on something else and not his predicament. He needs to fight if he is to survive. Give him a reason not to give up."
Archer's breath caught in his throat, "Doc you're worrying me, what are his chances?"
"I'll do everything I possibly can Captain."
"You didn't answer my question," Archer replied bleakly.
"Yes. I did," Phlox countered.
Archer and Phlox heard joking and laughter the closer they got to Trip. Three members of the rescue team were kneeling in front of Trip using mini lasers on the pipes imprisoning him. While they worked, they took turns teasing the commander about how each wanted to add him to their insect collection. Trip's face had taken on a gray pallor and as each section of pipe was removed, a look of pain crossed his face. Seeing the captain he grinned, "we're gonna have ta start a talent night Cap'm, these jokers seem ta think they're funny, unfortunately I'm a captive audience so I can't walk out." Trip's smile faded when he didn't see an answering smile on the captain's face.
Phlox discreetly ran his scanner over the commander, he looked up at the captain and shook his head slightly in a negative motion. "How much longer," Archer asked Murphy.
"This last section is the trickiest, it's part of the pipe stuck in the commander. Five minutes should do it," Murphy said.
The captain squatted in front of Trip, he stared at him silently for a minute, then spoke in a low, harsh voice, "You nearly destroyed my ship with this hare-brained scheme of yours. Once Phlox has you fixed up you're confined to your quarters until a hearing can take place to decide what charges you'll face."
Surprised by the captain's unprovoked attack Trip stared at the captain incredulous, "Ya can't mean that Cap'm." Trip tried to sit up and was pushed back down. "I do mean it commander. You constantly make up excuses for your unprofessional behavior and expect me to excuse you because of our friendship. Do you remember the talk we had before I chose you for this mission?"
Trip nodded his head, "what has that to do with anythin'?"
"If you remember commander, there were two other qualified people for chief engineer, but I chose you only after we agreed our duty to the ship and crew would take precedence over our friendship. You agreed you would follow my orders and not take advantage of our relationship. You haven't followed that agreement." Drawing a deep breath he continued, "No matter how the hearing turns out, I'm recommending you be reassigned back to earth."
Trip's eyes burned fire as he looked at Archer, bitterly he said, "Ya can't possibly believe what you're sayin'. I've always given you and this ship one hundred percent and more. If that's the way ya feel then ya can have Enterprise, but be careful Cap'm without me around you're gonna turn into a cold, despotic old man. Now get outta ma face before I do somethin' unfriendly and take a swing at ya." Trip turned his face away from the captain effectively ending the conversation.
Archers' face tightened to hide his emotions. He straightened up and looked at Phlox who was nodding and murmuring, "good, good."
The sound of the lasers ceased, "Doc, he's all yours," Murphy said.
Phlox motioned for two of his medical technicians to come in with the stretcher, he pointed to the small piece of metal still embedded in the commander's stomach, "take it slow and easy, I don't want that piece of metal jarred in any way. I'll remove it in sickbay." A low moan escaped from Trip as they moved him onto the stretcher. The captain motioned everyone to move out of the way so Trip and the medical personnel could get him to sickbay as soon as possible. When the stretcher reached the top of the debris hole Trip saw a crowd of faces staring at him; he raised a hand acknowledging them and the crew started cheering and clapping.
The captain watched the procession move out of engineering and head for sickbay. Phlox stopped in front of him, "I know that was difficult for you Captain, but the benefits will outweigh the consequences of your actions."
Archer said with self-loathing, "The problem Doctor is. I meant every word I said."
"I'm sorry Captain. I'll keep you informed on his condition," Phlox replied. Archer nodded and watched him exit the room.
"T'pol to Captain Archer," the wall comm. beckoned. Archer moved to the comm. panel and punched the button with unnecessary force. "Archer here!"
T'pol's eyebrows rose at the captain's brusque voice. "Sir, we have restored communications throughout the ship. Damage reports are coming in from the different sections. There are no reports of fatalities."
Hoshi hissed at T'pol, "what about Commander Tucker?"
T'pol looked at Hoshi disdainfully, "Captain, have they found the commander?"
"Yes," Archer said abruptly.
T'pol stared at her console waiting for more information, when none was forthcoming she looked around at all the faces staring at her, "what is his condition?"
"Critical."
Hoshi and Travis exchanged concerned looks at the somber tone in the captain's voice.
Changing the subject Archer asked, "How are repairs to life support coming?"
"I am working on the problem now Captain, repairs will be completed in one hour."
"I'll be in the armory if I'm needed, Archer out." Turning around he stared at the activity of the repair crews. He rubbed his burning eyes, God he was tired. The rush he had felt right after the incident was gone leaving him feeling drained and disheartened. He rotated his shoulders and slowly bent his neck forward and back to release the tension that had built up. Standing here wasn't accomplishing anything, so he headed into the corridor and the armory.
SICKBAY
The laser scalpel bit into Trip's flesh making a neat incision horizontally beside the metal imbedded in his stomach. "Forceps, please," Phlox's cheerful voice called out. A pair of forceps was placed into his gloved hand. He carefully extracted the metal, avoiding the major blood vessels surrounding it. "Ahhh, that wasn't so hard. Now let's repair the damage."
ARMORY
Captain Archer contemplated the legs sticking out from under the armory control panel. The voice coming from inside the panel was cursing like a British sailor, "Bloody hell, I never authorized these changes."
Looking amused Archer asked, "Malcolm, how much longer before we have some way of defending ourselves?"
"Uh. Captain, how long have you been standing there?" Malcolm pulled himself out from under the panel and stared up at the captain.
"It's alright Malcolm, I've been known to swear once in awhile. I won't hold it against you." He reached down a hand and pulled Malcolm to his feet.
"Thank you Captain."
"If you're here that means the commander has been found. How is he?"
"I don't know," Archer answered shortly. "You haven't answered my question, Malcolm."
"The weapons, right Sir. I'd say it'll be at least 8 hours before I can give you anything. The control panel is useless, every relay has been fried. We have another problem; I agreed to help Commander Tucker based on his calculations and the modifications we agreed upon. I just finished rechecking all the modifications to see if we missed anything. I'm at a loss Sir, the modifications we made were changed. The heavy duty shunts and relays we installed early this morning have been tampered with. I can't be sure until I make a thorough examination, but somehow when I cut the power it signaled a power surge in the system instead of a shut down."
The captain rubbed his eyes tiredly, why was it when one problem was solved another more serious one seemed to pop up. "Who would want to sabotage Enterprise, it doesn't make sense. Are you sure a mistake wasn't made when you and the commander rigged up the system?"
"I won't know for sure until I go through the entire system." Malcolm watched the captain closely wondering what he was thinking. What if he was to blame for this mess; why did he let the commander talk him into going against his better judgment? If he was at fault, it would go on his permanent record. He would disgrace his family. He could see the headlines now, "Son of Famous British Navy Family Single-Handedly Destroys Earth Space Program."
Exasperated Archer repeated, "Malcolm did you hear me?"
"Sorry Sir, I was thinking."
"I'm sending T'pol down here to give you a hand. Perhaps the two of you can provide me with some answers, understand, Lieutenant?"
"Yes Sir, and if it was my fault I will take any punishment you feel is necessary."
Leaning in closely Archer said coldly, "Malcolm, if you and the commander are at fault, nothing on earth will stop me from throwing both of you out of Starfleet and off my ship." Malcolm's eyes nearly bulged out of his head. He swallowed hard to remove the knot that had formed in his throat. He whispered, "yes Sir."
Walking to the wall, Captain Archer pushed the button on the comm. panel, "Archer to T'pol."
"Yes Captain?" T'pol replied
"Report to the armory immediately. Lieutenant Reed will fill you in when you get here."
"What about life support systems?""
"I'm sure the repair crew can finish on their own Sub-commander."
"I'm on my way, T'pol out."
"I'll be in sickbay if I'm needed."
He walked out of the armory and race walked to sickbay. Not hearing from the Doc really worried him. Maybe no news was good news, he certainly hoped so. He stopped in front of the sickbay doors, reached up to press the button that would open the doors then suddenly stopped and dropped his hand. His concern for Trip was overwhelming, all kinds of scenarios kept running through his head. What if he had just told Trip no to his test? What if he had ordered Trip to tell him what he was really up to? Dammit, he was the captain, if it had been anyone but Trip he would have shut them down the minute he knew they were running a test he hadn't approved. Trip was always so enthusiastic and daring, ready for a new adventure no matter the risk and doing his best to drag him into it. This time people got hurt and his ship was nearly destroyed. The consequences this time would be severe for both Trip and himself because ultimately it was his responsibility to protect the ship and crew. Thinking about it wasn't going to solve anything so he took a deep breath, straightened up, smoothed down his uniform, and pressed the button to open the door.
"Captain, just the person I was going to call," Phlox said jovially.
"By the sound of your voice I gather Trip's going to be o.k." Archer said relieved.
"Well, it's early days yet, but he's young and strong so unless he springs some nasty surprise on me he'll be fine. I know you feel guilty about what you did in engineering but it was necessary. He was so focused on what you said and I must say very angry, he hardly noticed what was happening to him until I put him to sleep. It is amazing what a few well chosen words do to your species." Phlox smiled his trademark smile.
Archer didn't feel much like smiling himself, "when can I see him?"
"You can see him now Captain, but he won't be much of a conversationalist, he's still asleep. You could talk to some of the crew. I admitted eight crewmembers. Three have concussion, four have assorted broken bones, and one was scalded by hot water in the kitchen. By the time you've spoken to each one of them the commander should be waking up."
Archer nodded his agreement and made his way behind the curtains that hid the beds from view. Phlox heard the murmur of voices as he moved from cage to cage feeding his menagerie. He had neglected them because of the crisis and was only now able to feed and water them.
One hour later Phlox went to check on the commander. He had been placed in a private alcove away from the rest of the injured to ensure he had peace and quiet. Phlox turned on a small light affixed to the wall.
"Turn that thang off," a gruff voice complained. Trip squinted his eyes at the Doctor, "I was in the middle of a great dream. I was swimmin' off the Florida Keys with a dozen beautiful women," he looked Phlox up and down, "so unless ya look better in a bikini than ya look now, I wanna go back to ma dream."
The doctor replied soothingly, "Sorry to disappoint you Commander but the captain wants to talk to you and I need to perform some tests."
"Perform all the tests ya want but there's no way I'm talkin' to the cap'm."
Doctor Phlox continued to watch the monitors above the commander's head, noting his pulse, blood pressure and temperature, "Now, now Commander, he's very concerned about you. He's been here for an hour waiting for you to wake up. He's probably pacing outside right now waiting for me to let him in."
Trip looked at Phlox then reluctantly nodded his head, "I might as well get it over with. Send him in."
Phlox smiled and patted Trip on the shoulder. Pulling aside the curtain, he motioned the captain to come in. Archer moved toward the curtain with a certain reluctance, envisioning the hostility he knew Trip was going to display toward him. Plastering an smile on his face, he moved past Phlox, nodding at the warning he saw in his eyes. Reaching Trip's bedside he was arrested by the open hostility shining from his eyes. This was not going to be easy.
Archer said pleasantly, "Doc says you're going to be just fine. How do you feel?"
Trip asked belligerently, "How do ya think I feel Cap'm? I'm lying in a twisted pile of metal surrounded by members of the crew, and my Cap'm and friend tells me he's kickin' me off Enterprise." He leaned up on his elbows and taking a deep breath said, "I'll save ya the embarrassment and trouble of an open hearing, I resign, effective immediately." Trip's breathing became increasingly rapid and sweat beaded his forehead from the effort he was making. Slumping back on the pillow he stared at the captain waiting for his reaction.
Archer looked back at Trip for half a minute then replied testily, "I'll accept your resignation after we find out what caused the explosion. I'm having all the sensor logs transferred here. You'll go through each one until you find an answer. You put both our butts in the fire. I have to explain to Admiral Forrest how I could allow three of my senior officers to conduct a test without first hand knowledge or approval of the project."
Trip's breathing became more rapid and shallow with the panic he felt. His hands gripped the edges of his blanket to help control his shaking hands. Waves of pain were beginning to take control of his senses. Gritting his teeth he ground out, "Leave T'pol and Malcolm outta this. It was my idea; I bullied them inta helpin' me. They wanted ta tell ya but I threatened 'em." Panting heavily he continued, "Tell Admiral Forrest I forced them ta help." A wave of intense pain impaled him ripping an agonized groan from his lips. "Get Doc!"
Archer ripped the curtain open and yelled, "Phlox get in here now!" Phlox moved hurriedly to the commander's side. Checking the bio-panel above the commander's head, he noticed a drop in blood pressure and rise in his pulse rate.
"Commander, look at me, I need you to tell me where it hurts."
Trip nodded his head and placed his hands over the incision on his stomach. "Here Doc," he said in a strained voice, "it feels like my belly is being ripped open. Sweat poured down his face soaking his pillow and medical gown. He stared at Phlox with terror filled eyes then they rolled back in his head and he passed out.
"Doc, what happened?" Archer asked panicked.
Phlox pushed the panic button on the wall and a piercing shriek filled sickbay. The room soon filled with medical personnel. Captain Archer was pushed against the wall out of the way while the commander's condition was assessed.
Phlox ran a medical scanner over the commander, "He's hemorrhaging, get surgery ready now," he told his team. They packed the commander up, moved him onto a movable gurney, and wheeled him away. Phlox moved to the captain, "I'll let you know as soon as I can." The captain nodded his head in understanding and watched Phlox rush towards surgery at the other end of sickbay.
TBC..How do you like it? I just started a new job so I'm not so sure when the next chapter will be up. Don't forget to review for me. I need feedback even criticism would be appreciated.
CHAPTER 7
Phlox and Archer ran to the debris and stared into the hole Murphy was standing in. "Is he alive?" Archer asked urgently.
"Yea, but his situation isn't good. I've never seen anything like it. He's wrapped like a cocoon by a piece of the stairwell and one of the ends has pierced his stomach. If we aren't careful we'll cut him in two trying to release him."
"Captain, I need to get in there and assess his condition," Phlox said.
Archer nodded and helped Phlox climb down the rubble into the hole. He made his way over to a cleared area and heard an annoyed voice saying, "What are ya'll waitin' for, get me the hell outta here now."
Phlox said amused, "Now Commander, they can't do anything until I take a look at you." The rescue workers moved aside and Phlox lost his smile for an instant when he saw the commander's predicament. Trip was lying on his side his hair was covered in dirt, shiny pieces of piping encircled his arms and chest spiraling around to his knees embracing him as tightly as a boa constrictor. Sweat dripped off his face made red with the effort he was making to draw in and expel each breath. A piece of the pipe was spilt open and a jagged edge was pressed into his stomach as a pin is stuck through the body of a butterfly. Blood bubbled from around the edges with each breath Trip expelled.
Squatting beside him, Phlox pulled out his medical scanner and ran it over Trip's body. "Well Doc, am I gonna live?"
"I wouldn't have it any other way Commander," Phlox stated optimistically. "Are you in much pain?"
"My chest hurts a little when I breathe but I can't feel much else." He looked at the people around him becoming agitated, "where's the Cap'm, is he alright?"
Placing his hand on the Commander's shoulder Phlox said, "Calm yourself Commander the Captain is fine as are the crew, aside from some bumps and bruises. The Captain is anxiously waiting for news of your condition."
Relaxing under Phlox's hand Trip closed his eyes and in a distressed voice said, "tell the Cap'm I'm sorry, I don't know what happened."
Phlox reassuringly said, "It's alright Commander, I'm sure the Captain doesn't blame you." The rescue crew exchanged disbelieving looks and chorused, "yea, listen to Doc."
Opening his eyes Trip chortled weakly his face quickly contorted to a grimace as a coughing spasm wracked his body. Flecks of blood stained his lips and his breathing became more labored. Phlox ran his scanner back over Trip noticing the drop in his vitals, "Commander I'm going to give you something to help you breath easier then I'm going to see how soon we can get you out of here." Phlox pulled a hypo spray from his med kit and injected the medicine into his neck. Trip's breathing slowed and he nodded his appreciation to the Doctor.
Phlox made his way back to the Captain and Murphy who were discussing ways to cut Trip out of his prison. Archer helped Phlox out of the hole, "How is he?"
"His situation is unstable Captain. He's bleeding internally and his breathing is labored. I don't think he'll last more than 30 minutes."
Archer's jaw tightened, "Murphy I want him out of there in 10 minutes; I don't care what it takes, understand?"
"Yes Sir," Murphy replied. He jumped into the hole and disappeared.
"Captain," Phlox said urgently, "I want you to be there when they release him."
Archer looked puzzled, "Why?"
"The commander has a spontaneous nature, wouldn't you agree?"
Still puzzled, Archer smiled, "put like that Doc it sounds like a compliment. I can think of several synonyms that might not be as flattering. Is this leading somewhere?"
"Indeed it is. He's been trapped for quite a while and he's tiring. The effort he is making to fight is breaking down. I want you to stir him up, agitate him. I want him concentrating on something else and not his predicament. He needs to fight if he is to survive. Give him a reason not to give up."
Archer's breath caught in his throat, "Doc you're worrying me, what are his chances?"
"I'll do everything I possibly can Captain."
"You didn't answer my question," Archer replied bleakly.
"Yes. I did," Phlox countered.
Archer and Phlox heard joking and laughter the closer they got to Trip. Three members of the rescue team were kneeling in front of Trip using mini lasers on the pipes imprisoning him. While they worked, they took turns teasing the commander about how each wanted to add him to their insect collection. Trip's face had taken on a gray pallor and as each section of pipe was removed, a look of pain crossed his face. Seeing the captain he grinned, "we're gonna have ta start a talent night Cap'm, these jokers seem ta think they're funny, unfortunately I'm a captive audience so I can't walk out." Trip's smile faded when he didn't see an answering smile on the captain's face.
Phlox discreetly ran his scanner over the commander, he looked up at the captain and shook his head slightly in a negative motion. "How much longer," Archer asked Murphy.
"This last section is the trickiest, it's part of the pipe stuck in the commander. Five minutes should do it," Murphy said.
The captain squatted in front of Trip, he stared at him silently for a minute, then spoke in a low, harsh voice, "You nearly destroyed my ship with this hare-brained scheme of yours. Once Phlox has you fixed up you're confined to your quarters until a hearing can take place to decide what charges you'll face."
Surprised by the captain's unprovoked attack Trip stared at the captain incredulous, "Ya can't mean that Cap'm." Trip tried to sit up and was pushed back down. "I do mean it commander. You constantly make up excuses for your unprofessional behavior and expect me to excuse you because of our friendship. Do you remember the talk we had before I chose you for this mission?"
Trip nodded his head, "what has that to do with anythin'?"
"If you remember commander, there were two other qualified people for chief engineer, but I chose you only after we agreed our duty to the ship and crew would take precedence over our friendship. You agreed you would follow my orders and not take advantage of our relationship. You haven't followed that agreement." Drawing a deep breath he continued, "No matter how the hearing turns out, I'm recommending you be reassigned back to earth."
Trip's eyes burned fire as he looked at Archer, bitterly he said, "Ya can't possibly believe what you're sayin'. I've always given you and this ship one hundred percent and more. If that's the way ya feel then ya can have Enterprise, but be careful Cap'm without me around you're gonna turn into a cold, despotic old man. Now get outta ma face before I do somethin' unfriendly and take a swing at ya." Trip turned his face away from the captain effectively ending the conversation.
Archers' face tightened to hide his emotions. He straightened up and looked at Phlox who was nodding and murmuring, "good, good."
The sound of the lasers ceased, "Doc, he's all yours," Murphy said.
Phlox motioned for two of his medical technicians to come in with the stretcher, he pointed to the small piece of metal still embedded in the commander's stomach, "take it slow and easy, I don't want that piece of metal jarred in any way. I'll remove it in sickbay." A low moan escaped from Trip as they moved him onto the stretcher. The captain motioned everyone to move out of the way so Trip and the medical personnel could get him to sickbay as soon as possible. When the stretcher reached the top of the debris hole Trip saw a crowd of faces staring at him; he raised a hand acknowledging them and the crew started cheering and clapping.
The captain watched the procession move out of engineering and head for sickbay. Phlox stopped in front of him, "I know that was difficult for you Captain, but the benefits will outweigh the consequences of your actions."
Archer said with self-loathing, "The problem Doctor is. I meant every word I said."
"I'm sorry Captain. I'll keep you informed on his condition," Phlox replied. Archer nodded and watched him exit the room.
"T'pol to Captain Archer," the wall comm. beckoned. Archer moved to the comm. panel and punched the button with unnecessary force. "Archer here!"
T'pol's eyebrows rose at the captain's brusque voice. "Sir, we have restored communications throughout the ship. Damage reports are coming in from the different sections. There are no reports of fatalities."
Hoshi hissed at T'pol, "what about Commander Tucker?"
T'pol looked at Hoshi disdainfully, "Captain, have they found the commander?"
"Yes," Archer said abruptly.
T'pol stared at her console waiting for more information, when none was forthcoming she looked around at all the faces staring at her, "what is his condition?"
"Critical."
Hoshi and Travis exchanged concerned looks at the somber tone in the captain's voice.
Changing the subject Archer asked, "How are repairs to life support coming?"
"I am working on the problem now Captain, repairs will be completed in one hour."
"I'll be in the armory if I'm needed, Archer out." Turning around he stared at the activity of the repair crews. He rubbed his burning eyes, God he was tired. The rush he had felt right after the incident was gone leaving him feeling drained and disheartened. He rotated his shoulders and slowly bent his neck forward and back to release the tension that had built up. Standing here wasn't accomplishing anything, so he headed into the corridor and the armory.
SICKBAY
The laser scalpel bit into Trip's flesh making a neat incision horizontally beside the metal imbedded in his stomach. "Forceps, please," Phlox's cheerful voice called out. A pair of forceps was placed into his gloved hand. He carefully extracted the metal, avoiding the major blood vessels surrounding it. "Ahhh, that wasn't so hard. Now let's repair the damage."
ARMORY
Captain Archer contemplated the legs sticking out from under the armory control panel. The voice coming from inside the panel was cursing like a British sailor, "Bloody hell, I never authorized these changes."
Looking amused Archer asked, "Malcolm, how much longer before we have some way of defending ourselves?"
"Uh. Captain, how long have you been standing there?" Malcolm pulled himself out from under the panel and stared up at the captain.
"It's alright Malcolm, I've been known to swear once in awhile. I won't hold it against you." He reached down a hand and pulled Malcolm to his feet.
"Thank you Captain."
"If you're here that means the commander has been found. How is he?"
"I don't know," Archer answered shortly. "You haven't answered my question, Malcolm."
"The weapons, right Sir. I'd say it'll be at least 8 hours before I can give you anything. The control panel is useless, every relay has been fried. We have another problem; I agreed to help Commander Tucker based on his calculations and the modifications we agreed upon. I just finished rechecking all the modifications to see if we missed anything. I'm at a loss Sir, the modifications we made were changed. The heavy duty shunts and relays we installed early this morning have been tampered with. I can't be sure until I make a thorough examination, but somehow when I cut the power it signaled a power surge in the system instead of a shut down."
The captain rubbed his eyes tiredly, why was it when one problem was solved another more serious one seemed to pop up. "Who would want to sabotage Enterprise, it doesn't make sense. Are you sure a mistake wasn't made when you and the commander rigged up the system?"
"I won't know for sure until I go through the entire system." Malcolm watched the captain closely wondering what he was thinking. What if he was to blame for this mess; why did he let the commander talk him into going against his better judgment? If he was at fault, it would go on his permanent record. He would disgrace his family. He could see the headlines now, "Son of Famous British Navy Family Single-Handedly Destroys Earth Space Program."
Exasperated Archer repeated, "Malcolm did you hear me?"
"Sorry Sir, I was thinking."
"I'm sending T'pol down here to give you a hand. Perhaps the two of you can provide me with some answers, understand, Lieutenant?"
"Yes Sir, and if it was my fault I will take any punishment you feel is necessary."
Leaning in closely Archer said coldly, "Malcolm, if you and the commander are at fault, nothing on earth will stop me from throwing both of you out of Starfleet and off my ship." Malcolm's eyes nearly bulged out of his head. He swallowed hard to remove the knot that had formed in his throat. He whispered, "yes Sir."
Walking to the wall, Captain Archer pushed the button on the comm. panel, "Archer to T'pol."
"Yes Captain?" T'pol replied
"Report to the armory immediately. Lieutenant Reed will fill you in when you get here."
"What about life support systems?""
"I'm sure the repair crew can finish on their own Sub-commander."
"I'm on my way, T'pol out."
"I'll be in sickbay if I'm needed."
He walked out of the armory and race walked to sickbay. Not hearing from the Doc really worried him. Maybe no news was good news, he certainly hoped so. He stopped in front of the sickbay doors, reached up to press the button that would open the doors then suddenly stopped and dropped his hand. His concern for Trip was overwhelming, all kinds of scenarios kept running through his head. What if he had just told Trip no to his test? What if he had ordered Trip to tell him what he was really up to? Dammit, he was the captain, if it had been anyone but Trip he would have shut them down the minute he knew they were running a test he hadn't approved. Trip was always so enthusiastic and daring, ready for a new adventure no matter the risk and doing his best to drag him into it. This time people got hurt and his ship was nearly destroyed. The consequences this time would be severe for both Trip and himself because ultimately it was his responsibility to protect the ship and crew. Thinking about it wasn't going to solve anything so he took a deep breath, straightened up, smoothed down his uniform, and pressed the button to open the door.
"Captain, just the person I was going to call," Phlox said jovially.
"By the sound of your voice I gather Trip's going to be o.k." Archer said relieved.
"Well, it's early days yet, but he's young and strong so unless he springs some nasty surprise on me he'll be fine. I know you feel guilty about what you did in engineering but it was necessary. He was so focused on what you said and I must say very angry, he hardly noticed what was happening to him until I put him to sleep. It is amazing what a few well chosen words do to your species." Phlox smiled his trademark smile.
Archer didn't feel much like smiling himself, "when can I see him?"
"You can see him now Captain, but he won't be much of a conversationalist, he's still asleep. You could talk to some of the crew. I admitted eight crewmembers. Three have concussion, four have assorted broken bones, and one was scalded by hot water in the kitchen. By the time you've spoken to each one of them the commander should be waking up."
Archer nodded his agreement and made his way behind the curtains that hid the beds from view. Phlox heard the murmur of voices as he moved from cage to cage feeding his menagerie. He had neglected them because of the crisis and was only now able to feed and water them.
One hour later Phlox went to check on the commander. He had been placed in a private alcove away from the rest of the injured to ensure he had peace and quiet. Phlox turned on a small light affixed to the wall.
"Turn that thang off," a gruff voice complained. Trip squinted his eyes at the Doctor, "I was in the middle of a great dream. I was swimmin' off the Florida Keys with a dozen beautiful women," he looked Phlox up and down, "so unless ya look better in a bikini than ya look now, I wanna go back to ma dream."
The doctor replied soothingly, "Sorry to disappoint you Commander but the captain wants to talk to you and I need to perform some tests."
"Perform all the tests ya want but there's no way I'm talkin' to the cap'm."
Doctor Phlox continued to watch the monitors above the commander's head, noting his pulse, blood pressure and temperature, "Now, now Commander, he's very concerned about you. He's been here for an hour waiting for you to wake up. He's probably pacing outside right now waiting for me to let him in."
Trip looked at Phlox then reluctantly nodded his head, "I might as well get it over with. Send him in."
Phlox smiled and patted Trip on the shoulder. Pulling aside the curtain, he motioned the captain to come in. Archer moved toward the curtain with a certain reluctance, envisioning the hostility he knew Trip was going to display toward him. Plastering an smile on his face, he moved past Phlox, nodding at the warning he saw in his eyes. Reaching Trip's bedside he was arrested by the open hostility shining from his eyes. This was not going to be easy.
Archer said pleasantly, "Doc says you're going to be just fine. How do you feel?"
Trip asked belligerently, "How do ya think I feel Cap'm? I'm lying in a twisted pile of metal surrounded by members of the crew, and my Cap'm and friend tells me he's kickin' me off Enterprise." He leaned up on his elbows and taking a deep breath said, "I'll save ya the embarrassment and trouble of an open hearing, I resign, effective immediately." Trip's breathing became increasingly rapid and sweat beaded his forehead from the effort he was making. Slumping back on the pillow he stared at the captain waiting for his reaction.
Archer looked back at Trip for half a minute then replied testily, "I'll accept your resignation after we find out what caused the explosion. I'm having all the sensor logs transferred here. You'll go through each one until you find an answer. You put both our butts in the fire. I have to explain to Admiral Forrest how I could allow three of my senior officers to conduct a test without first hand knowledge or approval of the project."
Trip's breathing became more rapid and shallow with the panic he felt. His hands gripped the edges of his blanket to help control his shaking hands. Waves of pain were beginning to take control of his senses. Gritting his teeth he ground out, "Leave T'pol and Malcolm outta this. It was my idea; I bullied them inta helpin' me. They wanted ta tell ya but I threatened 'em." Panting heavily he continued, "Tell Admiral Forrest I forced them ta help." A wave of intense pain impaled him ripping an agonized groan from his lips. "Get Doc!"
Archer ripped the curtain open and yelled, "Phlox get in here now!" Phlox moved hurriedly to the commander's side. Checking the bio-panel above the commander's head, he noticed a drop in blood pressure and rise in his pulse rate.
"Commander, look at me, I need you to tell me where it hurts."
Trip nodded his head and placed his hands over the incision on his stomach. "Here Doc," he said in a strained voice, "it feels like my belly is being ripped open. Sweat poured down his face soaking his pillow and medical gown. He stared at Phlox with terror filled eyes then they rolled back in his head and he passed out.
"Doc, what happened?" Archer asked panicked.
Phlox pushed the panic button on the wall and a piercing shriek filled sickbay. The room soon filled with medical personnel. Captain Archer was pushed against the wall out of the way while the commander's condition was assessed.
Phlox ran a medical scanner over the commander, "He's hemorrhaging, get surgery ready now," he told his team. They packed the commander up, moved him onto a movable gurney, and wheeled him away. Phlox moved to the captain, "I'll let you know as soon as I can." The captain nodded his head in understanding and watched Phlox rush towards surgery at the other end of sickbay.
TBC..How do you like it? I just started a new job so I'm not so sure when the next chapter will be up. Don't forget to review for me. I need feedback even criticism would be appreciated.
