Traditions

by Witezon

The developing relationship between Archer and T'Pol

1. Default Chapter

TITLE: Traditions (Dec 2002) Author: Witezon Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN Rating: G

ENTERPRISE BRIDGE

T'Pol unobtrusively observed the bridge personnel. She had researched human culture and traditions quite thoroughly and the attitudes portrayed by the crew did not fit within the parameters she had analyzed.

Two hours later, after quietly working at her science station and watching her fellow bridge crew members, who were extraordinarily quiet at their stations, she came to a decision.

T'Pol got up, "Lt Reed, you have the bridge." At his nod, she turned and left the bridge.

She went directly to the Captain's Ready Room where he had sequestered himself for the past 2-hours.

At the chime, "Come in."

She entered and stopped at the edge of his desk. Captain Archer, like his crew, looked pensive and distracted. He tilted his head in query.

"Yes, Sub-Commander, what can I do for you?"

She looked at him and considered her words carefully, "Captain, I have studied human culture quite thoroughly since I have been assigned to the Enterprise."

Watching his reaction, which was to look at her in surprise, "Of course, that would be logical. But what does that have to do with anything?"

Shifting very slightly from one foot to the other, with both hands behind her back, "Captain, please correct me if I am wrong, but is this not the period of time called Christmas on Earth?"

Leaning forward in his chair to look at her and saying slowly "Yes, it is. What about it?"

"Are you going to celebrate it on-board?" Plunging headlong into her rehearsed statement, "I have been observing the bridge crew and other crew members in Engineering and also the Mess. For a holiday period, the crew seems to be not as emotionally happy as my studies have indicated they would be during this time."

Archer sighed, leaning back in his chair, "You're right."

Staring at her, "T'Pol, you're normally not this vague. What are you getting at?"

Straightening her already straight shoulders, "Captain, I recommend that this ship participate in the celebration of Christmas. You will need to decide exactly which ceremonies or rituals you will observe. I would suggest that at the least a Christmas party would be advantageous to the crew."

Archer looked at her in surprise. He wasn't expecting this.

He gestured for her to continue. "I also researched something called a Secret Santa or gift exchange." Staring at a space just above Archer's shoulder, she continued, "Captain, I offer these suggestions as your second in command. With the crew not at optimum performance level, we could be placing ourselves in possibility of danger." Looking at her in askance, "C'Mon T'Pol. The crew wouldn't put the ship in danger." Another deep breath, "But you're right. I appreciate your concerns about the crew."

Suddenly a sly smile crossed his face, "You're also right about us needing to celebrate Christmas." The smile changed to a teasing expression, "I think that since you thought of it, you should be in charge of it." A huge smile lit up his face.

T'Pol looked at Archer, with an arched eyebrow. "Captain, while I appreciate the honor, I would recommend that perhaps Commander Tucker and Ensign Sato would best be suited for these duties. I would also suggest that you would be a beneficial factor to planning these festivities."

Again looking away from Archer's intense stare, "I would also volunteer to take additional bridge shifts to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate." Anticipating his disapproval, "Captain, I am a Vulcan. I do not celebrate these holidays. It is logical to allow as many of the crew to participate as possible. I can easily work two or three bridge shifts without detriment."

Archer's expression slowly melted from outrage to understanding. "Sub- Commander, you continue to surprise me." He stood up and crossed over to stand closely beside her, "T'Pol, thank you. Your suggestions are excellent."

Looking at her, studying her, he said gently, "I would like you to participate in our festivities. Would you do that?"

Looking up at him, then lowering her eyes to the porthole. She said softly, "If you would like me to participate, I will do so."

Just as softly, "Yes, I do."

She nodded. In a stronger voice, "Captain, will you notify Commander Tucker and Ensign Sato?"

Continuing to look at her with an emotion she could not identify, he finally said. "Yes, of course."

She nodded again. "Thank you, Captain. I will be on the bridge." They exchanged another glance and she left the room.

A huge smile crossed Archer's face after she left. Looking at Porthos, "What a...being."

T'Pol reentered the bridge. She looked at Lt Reed, "Nothing to report, Sub- Commander." She nodded and sat down at the Science Station.

Suddenly Captain Archer's voice sounded throughout the ship, "Commander Tucker and Ensign Sato report to my Ready Room."

Hoshi looked up in surprise, then over at T'Pol who nodded. She got up and left the Bridge. T'Pol slaved communications to her Science Station.

CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM

The door chimed again. The second time in less than two minutes. T'Pol was right, the crew was becoming bored and depressed.

"Come."

In walked Commander Tucker. "Captain, Hoshi." He took a seat on the couch, next to Hoshi. Archer had a smile on face, plus something else they couldn't decipher. "Trip, Hoshi, its come to my attention that we should celebrate Christmas on-board the Enterprise." Looking at their shocked, but pleased expressions, "I know, I know, Starfleet Command was concerned about celebrating Christmas. For reasons known only to themselves." Shaking his head, "But I've decided that we're going to have a Christmas party for the crew."

Hoshi looked happy, "Oh sir, that's great. Can we do a Secret Santa?"

Choking back a laugh, Archer replied, "Yes, of course. I want you and Trip to organize the party. Decorations, gifts, food - everything. Let's do it right."

Trip laughed, "That's great, Jon. Hey, maybe we can find something to use as a Christmas Tree with lights and everything."

Suddenly his smiled faded a little, "Ah, Jon, what about T'Pol? Won't this offend her Vulcan...sensibilities?"

Displeased, Archer looked at Trip, causing him to sit back on the couch, "Commander, it was Sub-Commander T'Pol's suggestion that we celebrate Christmas. In fact, she volunteered to work extra bridge shifts to ensure everyone had a chance to go to the party and enjoy themselves."

Trip sighed, "Jon, I didn't mean it that way. You know that. I think I even like T'Pol. Well, as well as I can for someone who never laughs or smiles. I do respect her though. She's a good science officer and, hell, even a good second in command. Which surprises me."

Hoshi just looked back and forth between Trip and the Captain. She was so not getting in this conversation.

Then Archer looked over at her. "Do you have any questions, Ensign?"

Not even glancing at Trip, "Yes, sir. We can have the party in the Mess Hall and draw names for the Secret Santa. We can get with the Chef to plan a Christmas buffet. But we may need to get extra provisions."

Smiling at her enthusiasm, "You're free to plan a really special Christmas Party. Let the crew know about the party as soon as possible. I'll help in whatever way I can, just let me know. If we need extra supplies, get with T'Pol, she should be able to find a planet to get them at."

Hoshi and Trip stood up, "We'll plan the best party, Captain."

Smiling, "Great, dismissed." Once they got out the door, Hoshi hit Trip in the arm.

"What were you thinking? Talking about T'Pol like that?" Hoshi looked at him like he was an idiot.

Trip looked at her, "What? She's a Vulcan. They don't do Christmas. Heck, we don't even know what they believe in, other than their holier than thou logic." She continued to look at him like he was crazy.

Trip raised his hands in surrender, "I know. Every time I think I've got her figured out, she goes and does something...human."

Sighing at his obtuseness, "Just don't say that to her, Commander."

THE MESS HALL TWO WEEKS LATER

Trip and Hoshi had worked extremely hard to get the party planned, the decorations up, and the Secret Santa names exchanged. The crew was caught up in the festivities, and finally, they were smiling and laughing again.

T'Pol had planned on watching the festivities from afar, analyzing the situation. However, Captain Archer had other plans. He kept her updated on the planning and included her in meetings with Hoshi and Trip.

In fact, directly after the first meeting with the Captain, Hoshi and Trip came to see her.

Looking a little uncomfortable, Trip began, "T'Pol..." He glanced over at Hoshi, who sighed and continued for him, "Sub-Commander, thank you. We appreciate that you went to the Captain and got him to approve a party for Christmas." Hoshi smiled at T'Pol.

T'Pol nodded, "If there is anything I can do to assist, please let me know."

Trip stepped closer to T'Pol. "T'Pol this was a very nice thing you did. Thank you."

She stared at Trip, nodded. Then an eyebrow rose, "It seemed the logical thing to do." Hoshi smothered a laugh. Trip wasn't sure whether she was teasing him or completely serious. But with Hoshi's laugh, he thought he might be the victim of extremely dry Vulcan humor.

PRESENT TIME

The Mess Hall was decorated with tinsel, ornaments, and some twinkling lights that Trip had Engineering rig up. They even had a Christmas Tree. Not exactly a pine tree, but T'Pol said that it was a close match and that worked for them. The room with its dim lights and decorations looked almost magical. The gifts were under the tree.

T'Pol was on the bridge. The Christmas Party was due to start in half an hour and the crew was being scaled down to a minimum, with replacements coming on duty every hour or so, allowing everyone to participate.

T'Pol had programmed continuous scans to run to ensure the safety of the ship in this sector. But she had also maneuvered the ship into a 'safe' section of the quadrant, telling the Captain that she was interested in scanning the solar system. Vulcan had already done it three times. Nothing new was ever discovered. She anticipated that she would not find anything either, but at least it was a valid excuse.

TWO HOURS LATER

The Christmas party was in full swing and everyone was having a great time. There was a small area cleared for dancing and some couples were out there enjoying themselves. The food was excellent, the Chef had outdone himself for the occasion. Hoshi had decided that the gifts would be exchanged later on in the evening. Archer, Phlox, Trip, and Hoshi were sitting together at one table at the far side of the room. They were watching Mayweather dance with an Ensign from Engineering. The party was great and everyone was feeling good.

Hoshi leaned back, "You know its funny. T'Pol started all of this, but she's not here to enjoy it. I feel kinda bad about that. I know that she doesn't celebrate Christmas, but I wish she were here."

Archer smiled, "Well, you just never know." Lt Reed appeared at his elbow. "Sir, I'm ready if you are."

Nodding, Archer stood up and left with Reed. The rest of the table looked at each other in confusion.

BRIDGE Captain Archer walked onto the Bridge. All primary stations were manned, but the secondary stations weren't. T'Pol was at her Science Station with the command functions slaved there.

She rose when Archer entered. So did an eyebrow. Archer grinned in amusement, 'When didn't an eyebrow raise? And more to the point, when did I get used to that?'

"Captain, I thought you were at the Christmas party?" He continued to walk over to the Science Station.

"I am, or rather I was." Looking at her, "T'Pol, I would like you to come with me to the party."

Looking at him with surprise in her eyes, which quickly disappeared, "Captain, there is no one to delegate the bridge..." She broke off at his smile.

"Well, T'Pol, I took care of that." The turbo lift opened and Lt Reed walked over to them.

"Sub-Commander, I will take the Bridge." She looked at him, then back to Archer. She nodded. Archer gestured for her to proceed him.

Reed watched them leave, shook his head, and went through the checklist for the bridge functions.

Archer and T'Pol were quiet in the turbo lift. Archer kept smiling at her, and finally T'Pol asked, "Captain, is there something that I should know?"

Still smiling, "Only that I really appreciate that you suggested having a Christmas party. It was exactly what the crew needed. The party is great and everyone is enjoying themselves. Thank you."

She nodded and looked at the floor.

They reached the Mess Deck and Archer gently placed his hand on her elbow. She looked up at him, but did not move away. Though she did reinforce her shields. She had not explained why Vulcans do not touch other beings, but for some reason she did not really mind Captain Archer touching her. She would have to meditate about that.

Archer smiled at her again, "T'Pol, please, would you call me Jonathon? We'll be at a party; it would be appropriate for you to do so."

This time both eyebrows rose, contemplatively, "Yes, Jonathon."

His hand closed more fully around her elbow, gently guiding her into the room. Hoshi fell silent at the sight. There was Captain Archer and Sub- Commander T'Pol. His hand on her arm and leaning down to speak with her, with a smile on his face. She wasn't smiling, but it seemed that she wasn't displeased with the situation.

"Hoshi, tell me what I'm seeing," this from Trip. He had also watched them enter the room. Phlox, who had somewhat of an idea, smiled and took a drink of the holiday punch.

"Trip, you're seeing exactly what I'm seeing. The Captain and the Sub- Commander came to the party."

He looked at her in askance "Thanks, Hoshi. That I can see. Does it mean anything?"

She took a drink, "Why, does it bother you?"

Trip thought about that. Phlox waited for his response. "Well, no. I mean, I've noticed that she's not unattractive. But she's a Vulcan, so I don't think of her quite that way. Not to mention she'd probably break me in two."

Suddenly, "Well, that's good to hear, Trip." Trip dropped his head and then turned around. There stood Archer and T'Pol. She was standing a lot closer to Archer than normal. Almost between Archer and Trip. Archer's face was relaxed. He pulled a chair out for T'Pol to sit down. "I'll go and get us something to drink."

At her look, "Don't worry. Nothing alcoholic, nothing with animal in it." She nodded. He moved away.

T'Pol looked around, then at Hoshi and Trip. "This party appears to be what the crew required. You have done satisfactory."

Hoshi smiled and Trip grinned. They were used to satisfactory and adequate as euphemisms for Vulcan praise. If she ever said anything better than that, the whole ship would faint in surprise.

Phlox spoke, "But as I understand it, Sub-Commander, it was your initial request that made this possible. How did you convince the Captain to approve it? Especially after Starfleet had made a request to all of its ships with non-humans aboard not to have human parties."

Jonathon had returned by then, with drinks for both of them. He sat down beside her. He waited to hear her answer.

She paused, gathering her thoughts, "While it is true that Vulcans do not have celebrations such as Christmas, we do have our smaller, quieter, traditions. Not celebrations, but traditions."

She glanced around the table, her gaze finally resting on Archer, "We understand the need to continue these traditions. During my studies of Earth culture, I discovered that you also have your traditions. Christmas celebrations are one of your traditions. Practiced, in one methodology or another, by almost all of the planetary population. It was illogical of Starfleet to request that you not continue your tradition. Your tradition is not of the Vulcan way, or the Denoblian way, but it is of the Earth way and should be honored. Therefore, it was logical to request the continuation of the tradition and logical of Captain Archer to approve it."

Trip smiled at her, "Logical, of course." The rest of the table laughed. Phlox smiled as he took another drink. She quickly took a sip of her drink. Discussing Vulcan practices, even as vaguely as that, was disconcerting.

Archer smiled at her and leaned towards her to whisper, "I like your logical approach to the problem. Would you someday tell me what your Vulcan traditions?"

"Perhaps, Captain." At his look, "Jonathon."

TWO HOURS LATER

Archer and T'Pol had walked around the room talking with the other crew. Well, mostly it was Archer talking with T'Pol by his side. They were skirting the dance floor when an old Christmas song started playing. Jonathon paused when it started.

T'Pol stared at him, "Jonathon, is everything alright?"

He looked at her, considering something very slowly.

Nodding, "Yes, everything is fine. This song was just a favorite of mine when I was growing up. Its called "White Christmas." There's a great movie that goes with it."

Shaking his head and a small deprecating smile on his face, "T'Pol, will you dance with me?"

Both eyebrows almost disappeared into her hair. She looked steadily at him, then at everyone who was dancing.

She saw couples in each other's arms. One eyebrow finally came down, the other still high in contemplation. After a moment, "Yes."

She surprised him again. It was a chance he had taken, but expected her to say no. He gestured for her to precede him to the dance floor where she led them to a corner of the floor.

She turned around and he carefully took her right hand and placed his right one on her waist. She looked at him, the other couples, and finally placed her other hand on his shoulder. He slowly pulled her closer, not to close, as he didn't want to cause her to much discomfort. They slowly waltzed, almost in place as the floor was crowded. They stared at each other. The song ended, they slowly parted, and returned to the table in silence.

The rest of the room, and especially the table where the command crew was sitting, were somewhere between mesmerized and shocked while they watched their Captain and the Sub-Commander dance. After more small talk at the table, T'Pol got up as Hoshi and Trip went to the Christmas Tree to begin to pass out the gifts.

Jonathon also got up, but he followed T'Pol. She had gone to the Chef and gotten some of her Vulcan tea. It wasn't her usual mint tea, and Jonathon looked at it and then her with inquiry. It didn't smell as good as her mint tea did.

She answered his unspoken question, "It is a traditional Vulcan tea."

Jonathon looked at her. Trying to decide if she was homesick for Vulcan. She could read Jonathon's expression with perfect clarity.

"Jonathon, I only wanted a Vulcan tea. Too much sugar makes my stomach ache and drinking this tea helps. Doctor Phlox and I tried many different combinations, but this particular tea was the best for solving this problem."

Looking at him and still seeing some concern, "I have no plans to leave the Enterprise. I am satisfied with my current situation."

Seeing her seriousness, he relaxed. 'I'm glad. I wouldn't want you to leave."

She nodded and looked around the room. "They are passing out the gifts."

He smiled again and guided her back to the table.

"SUB-COMMANDER T'POL, PLEASE REPORT TO THE BRIDGE."

T'Pol looked up at Archer. In the sudden silence, she walked over to the intercom, "I am on my way."

She stopped by Archer on her way out the door, "Thank you, Jonathon. I enjoyed myself. I will keep you informed." He nodded and she was gone. He returned to the table, just as Trip returned. "Jon, good, you're still here. I didn't want you to miss getting your present."

Archer just smiled. Phlox looked at them, "Indeed, Commander. I think he already did."

CONTINUED IN PART 2

TITLE: Traditions, Part 2 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 (for language) Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

ENTERPRISE NX-00 BRIDGE - DAY AFTER THE CHRISTMAS PARTY

Archer walked onto the bridge, quickly looking around. Everyone was at their stations, and T'Pol was rising from his chair. She was either still on-duty or had gotten there before he did.

Nodding at her, "Sub-Commander, please don't tell me that you've had bridge duty all night."

She nodded seriously, "Yes, Captain," and went over to her Science Station.

This time it was Archer's eyebrows that shot up his forehead. He got up and followed her to the Science Station. Reed, Mayweather, and Sato tried not to reveal they were watching them, nor their surprise at T'Pol's reply.

A little more seriously, "Sub-Commander, are you telling me that you were on the bridge all night?"

Looking at him, revealing nothing with her stoic Vulcan facade, "No, Captain, I am not."

With a small amount of frustration, with what he perceived to be her perverseness, "What are you trying to tell me?"

Again, without expression, "Captain, I am telling you that I did have bridge duty all night." Raising a hand to stop his outburst, "However, I did turn the bridge over to Lt Reed for approximately 3-hours while I meditated. Then I returned, and Lt Reed left to rest. He returned to duty one hour ago."

Archer turned to look over at Reed, who looked back at him questioningly. Archer nodded and turned back to T'Pol.

Leaning towards her, "Sub-Commander, I believe that you were withholding information from me again - and enjoying it."

Her left eyebrow rose in, how he didn't know, a defiant attitude, "Captain, I can assure you that I was not withholding information from you - nor enjoying it. You made assumptions, and the answer to your assumptions was both yes and no."

This time he could have sworn that he saw something quickly pass through her eyes.

He looked at her unconvinced.

She looked down to her station set some switches. Then she looked up to Archer, "Captain, I request that I be allowed to leave the bridge to rest. I've set the Science Station on automatic monitoring and Ensign Sato will contact me if any of the alarms go off."

He still stared at her. Nodding slowly, "Certainly, Sub-Commander, you are dismissed." Watching her leave, he couldn't stop himself from calling out, "You know, T'Pol, another crewmember would have stopped me before I made an idiot of myself."

She stopped and turned around precisely in her footprints. She tilted her head, "Captain, another crewmember would be human and I am not." This time everyone stopped pretending to be doing their jobs and just watched the outcome of this unusual confrontation between the Captain and the Sub-Commander. Tucker had come onto the bridge during the original discussions and stopped just outside the turbo-lift doors so he could watch and listen.

"I am a Vulcan and I answered your question as I would have to a Vulcan Captain." Nodding once to herself, "Perhaps that is the problem."

This time extremely seriously, as he felt he had taken a body blow, "What problem would that be, Sub-Commander?"

She replied in the same tone she would use if she was reporting the geo- physical conditions of a planet they were going to survey, "Captain, as you know, I have studied humans and Earth quite extensively since I have been aboard the Enterprise. I have tried to understand the complex relationships between some of the crew, but I have been rebuffed and in some instances I believe I was insulted when I have asked questions to gain understanding."

Tucker quickly looked at deck, he knew he had been one of those to insult her. She continued.

"Therefore, I have stopped asking questions and rely on observation and analyzing situations. However, when I reply to questions, such as yours today, in the methodology used by Vulcans, I am again rebuffed." Her posture, both mentally and physically, reflected the perfect, controlled Vulcan. "Captain, if you will excuse me to my rest?"

This time he had nothing to say, so he nodded. Everyone watched her leave the bridge. The silence was deafening. Archer slowly sat down in his chair.

Tucker walked over to Archer, "Captain?" he asked carefully.

"Now, I know I am an idiot." Archer just looked at the view screen. Everyone else looked at him.

"Jon, what do you mean? You're not an idiot." He was trying to help Jon not feel bad, but not doing to well, "I mean, she's a Vulcan..."

Archer sharply looked over at him. "That's what she said, Trip. She's a Vulcan on a ship full of humans. She tried to understand us by asking questions. Granted in the Vulcan-way, and some questions were probably misunderstood or came out wrong. She stopped asking questions and now tries to understand our culture by observation and yet when she answers a question I jump on her. She answered it in the Vulcan way."

Shaking his head, Trip said, "I don't understand what you're getting at. I mean, I know that it can be hard for an unemotional Vulcan to get along in a ship full of emotional humans, but they put her here. She has to deal with it."

This time looking at Trip like he had grown two heads, "She is dealing with it, Commander. The Vulcan is succeeding, where we humans haven't. She's my second-in-command, and even after problems with you in following her orders, me, and sometimes other crewmembers who just don't trust her, she's still winning everyone over. They don't love her, they never will, but they will respect her."

"I'm really feeling foolish now." Shaking his head.

Trip leaned closer and spoke softly, "You mean last night when you brought her to the party?"

"No!" Archer snorted out. "We had a understanding last night, we just lost it this morning when I expected human answers from a Vulcan." Looking back at the view screen, "Do you remember when you had your Vulcan instructors and they didn't understand what you were saying?"

"Yeah, and I really hated it when they said 'Explain.'" Stopping for a brief second, "Ah, shit."

"Yeah, Trip. I could have said 'Explain' and stopped this whole 'thing' we just did." Turning his chair around the room and gesturing at everyone, "How many times has she looked at one of us and said 'Explain?' I think she even changed it to 'I don't understand', but we still treated her like a mental incompetent."

Everyone looked at each other. She had said it to all of them at one time or another - sometimes multiple times.

"Sir?" This came from Hoshi.

"Yes, Ensign?"

"I feel bad, Captain. I mean its easy to fall into the "I hate Vulcans" mentality and I can't even conceive how I would integrate into a ship full of Vulcans. Yet she's had to do that, plus be the second in command and I've seen how hard its been sometimes."

Her facing showing her unrest, "Then she goes ahead and arranges for us to have a Christmas party, even though Starfleet said not to."

Trip, still trying to not let everyone feel so badly, "C'mon Hoshi, she's the second in command, its her job to look after the crew." Another epiphany, "Ah, shit. Now I feel bad for a Vulcan who doesn't feel." Shaking his head at his stupidity.

Phlox's voice came over the intercom. "Commander, that's not exactly true, you know." Everyone looked up.

Archer spoke up, "Doctor, I didn't know you were there."

"Captain, I was calling to let you know that I've taken Sub-Commander T'Pol off the duty roster for today. She came in with a request for an analgesic, which in itself is very unusual for a Vulcan, but not totally unheard of. It usually comes from working too many duty shifts, and she's worked 4 straight. Normally, that wouldn't be a problem for a Vulcan, but this came after she had already worked 4 straight duty shifts for the last away mission. She seems intent to keep as many of the crew alive as possible, and the only way seems to be learning as much as possible about the worlds we visit."

In a slightly disapproving tone, "Since so many crew on-board treat her warnings as an insult."

Another silence, "We Denoblians don't have that problem. If the Vulcans say 'Wait, we don't have sufficient information,' we usually take their considerations into account. Did you know that Vulcan has mapped almost all the known sectors of space, but during this mapping they never heard back from over 500 Vulcan scout ships? Two person crafts. Over 1000 Vulcans lost during space exploration. They keep doing it because its the logical thing to do. As Surak said, they have to get over their fear. Just as we all do."

Silence, "Phlox out."

Trip looked at Archer, whose face looked like an unemotional Vulcan, "Captain, what do you want us to do?"

Looking at no one and everyone, "Don't do anything. She wouldn't appreciate anyone going out of their way to be more friendly than usual."

His voice getting sterner, "However, a little more respect from all of us (looking at Trip), is what I expect out of all my crew - and myself."

CONTINUED IN "TRADITIONS, PART 3

TITLE: Traditions, Part 3 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: G Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

END OF THE ALPHA SHIFT - DAY AFTER THE CHRISTMAS PARTY

After an extremely long, boring, and quiet duty shift, which allowed time for reflection, Archer left the bridge. He was on his way to Sickbay for two reasons - one he wanted some more information on how T'Pol was, and the other - he had a headache.

In he walked and found Phlox tending his flock. He smiled, "Captain, hello, how are you?"

"Hello, Doctor. I'm looking for something for my headache."

"Indeed." Phlox waved him over to a diagnostic bed and went over to him with a scanner.

Scanning him, "It appears to be going around today. Sub-Commander T'Pol also had a headache."

Looking closely at the doctor, "The Sub-Commander's headache is gone?"

"Yes, Captain it is." Shutting down his scanner and getting an injector, "Is there any reason for your question?"

Archer quickly looked up at him, but Phlox was loading the injector with an analgesic. He decided to take a chance, "I thought I might stop by and see her."

As he placed the injector on Archer's neck, "Captain, I do know that she hasn't eaten yet. She has been meditating most of the day."

"How do you know?" Archer got down from the diagnostic bed.

"I just returned from her quarters." Still not looking at Archer, but putting away the injector, "You know how private Vulcans are, she really doesn't like to come here. But then again, she's a Vulcan, so she usually doesn't have to. They're such a strong species, both physically and mentally."

Shaking his head, "Such control. Did you know that a Vulcan can kill in less than 2 seconds?"

Archer stared at Phlox, not really understanding where he was going with this strange conversation.

"Nnnoo, I didn't know that. Do I need to?"

Putting things away in the cabinets, "No, no. Vulcans have too much control over themselves to hurt anyone, unless its in self-defense. Just a point of interest. Did you know that they were very much stronger than humans? Denoblians, too?"

Standing and getting ready to leave, "Yes Doctor. I did know that. I have no intention of arm-wrestling with T'Pol."

Sighing, "Alright, Doctor, let's stop tap-dancing. I'm not understanding what you're trying to say." Looking at him, "Well, alright Captain. I think having dinner with the Sub- Commander is a good idea. Talking an even better one. But you need to realize that she is not human. She is Vulcan. I know its obvious, but sometimes its hard to see the being that is Vulcan. Look at how humans are seen - as a younger race that needs shepherding. Its merely a perception, not necessarily the truth."

Shrugging, "Vulcans analyze rather a lot. Trying to understand what is happening and what ramifications could result. Some analyze more than others. Our Sub-Commander is like that. She's one in a sea of humans and she's constantly analyzing, reanalyzing trying to understand all of the nuances and ramifications. She's also brilliant, but then she wouldn't be here if she wasn't."

Walking over to feed more of his flock, "In my opinion, she's done extremely well working in an environment so foreign to her. To go back to the sea analogy, she's swimming in a sea of emotions everyday and trying to block it out to do her job."

"That's the second time you've mentioned Vulcans and emotions. What do you mean?"

"Ahh, Vulcans and emotions. They have them you know. They're just controlled to a level of mastery that's unheard of in any other species. They been controlling them for over a 1000 years. Absolutely amazing. But, that's all I can say, as I really don't know much more. They are a very private people. You would need to ask the Sub-Commander."

Looking at Phlox, then shaking his head. "Thank you, doctor. Good night."

Archer left Sickbay and wandered down the hall. He stopped in his quarters. He knew he was procrastinating, but justified it as needing to tend to Porthos. Half an hour later he found himself outside T'Pol's quarters.

Taking a deep breathe, he rang the chime. Nothing. Then the door slid open, but still nothing. He walked slowly in, looking around. He found T'Pol standing at the porthole looking out.

He closed the door and stopped midway in her quarters. "T'Pol?"

She turned around. Hands clasped behind her back. Standing very still, "Captain, I must apologize for my actions this morning. It was unprofessional and I will accept any disciplinary actions you wish to take against me." She still hadn't looked him in the eye.

Then she looked up and he almost flinched. T'Pol, the person with whom he danced last night, wasn't there. It was Sub-Commander T'Pol of Vulcan.

But he was determined to talk with her tonight, "Sub-Commander, I'll accept your apologies if you accept mine. I was also out of line."

An eyebrow rose, "Of course, Captain."

Archer looked around and gestured at a chair. She nodded and he sat down. She sat down at her desk.

Archer knew that he would have to take the lead, and took a deep breathe, "T'Pol, I think I owe you another apology. I keep expecting you to react just like the human crewmembers. I don't expect that of the Doctor, but for some reason, I do of you."

She looked down at the floor, then back-up. "Captain, I understand. While I did not expect the crew to act like a Vulcan crew, I did expect more of a Vulcan-like environment. It was illogical."

They looked at each other, then T'Pol looked away. He looked at her questioningly, "T'Pol, why do you do that?" At her questioningly look, "I mean look away all the time."

An eyebrow rose, "A Vulcan's stare can be misinterpreted by other species. Especially a Vulcan woman who appears to be of a child-bearing age. A Vulcan male can maintain contact longer, but the stare, because we do not blink as often as other species, often angers others. We do not wish to anger other species. Therefore, we blink more often than necessary or, such as myself, look away."

Thinking about that, and what he's experienced with Vulcans. The males did intimidate most beings, himself included, which made him angry. He had also noticed that most young Vulcan females would generally ignore him.

"Do you mean, that in normal Vulcan situations you don't look away. But when you're dealing with other species you either look away or blink more often?"

"Yes, Captain. If I am trying to make a point or enforce something, then I blink more consistent with what is the norm for Vulcans, as it causes most humans and other species to understand that I am making a point."

She looked at him and did not look away. But she did blink.

"T'Pol, why are you being so forthright? Normally, Vulcans are more reticent about themselves."

"Captain..." She stopped when he raised a hand.

"Jonathon," he said.

She stared at him, did not blink, and nodded.

She started again, "Jonathon, I do not wish to have these issues with you as often in the future."

That was unexpected. Its what he wanted, but he didn't expect to get it from her, at least not without a lot of groveling. But how does a Captain grovel? So, she didn't let him. What a Vulcan.

He smiled, "You expect to have issues in the future?"

She raised an eyebrow, "It would be illogical to assume that we would not. I am still a Vulcan, you are still a Human, and we do perceive things differently."

He stared at her, she tilted her head to the side and stared back.

"T'Pol, would you like to get some dinner?"

A second passed, "Yes, Jonathon."

They stood up and started out of her quarters. "T'Pol, I think some crewmembers saw me go into your quarters."

She looked at him, "Which time?"

Shocked, he stopped in his tracks and then started laughing. This time the crewmembers on the deck didn't ignore them. There was the stoic Vulcan Sub- Commander looking at the Captain, who was laughing. But they didn't perceive that she was disdainful of him, she almost seemed to be amused. They quickly looked away. Archer took T'Pol's elbow and started them on their way again.

He leaned down, "Do you mind when I do this?"

She looked down at his hand on her elbow. "I am getting used to it."

His smile got bigger. "Good. T'Pol, will you tell me about Vulcan traditions?"

She arched an eyebrow, "Jonathon, I have already started."

CONTINUED IN TRADITIONS, PART 4 TITLE: Traditions, Part 4 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

ONE WEEK LATER - DECK LEADING TO THE MESS HALL

"Cap'n - wait up!," Trip called out as he jogged up to Archer.

Grinning at him, "Hey, Trip, what's up?" They continued in the direction that Archer was going.

Looking at Archer, judging his attitude, "Well, did you ask her?"

Stopping and looking at Trip in surprise. "Ask who, what?"

"You're joking, right?"

Archer shook his head, "No, what are you talking about?"

"Jon, haven't you read your messages?"

Again, shaking his head, "No, I haven't had time. I've been working with Malcolm and T'Pol on security strategies for almost 2-days straight. It seems that T'Pol supports most of Malcolm's security suggestions, and we've been discussing how to implement them. I just left them still discussing some technical computer issues." Pointing at Trip with his thumb, "They're coming to you next - so be ready."

He started walking again, "I was just on my way to grab some dinner and go catch up on my messages and reports."

Trip jogged to catch up with him, "Jon, you do know what tomorrow is?"

Archer looked at him with slight grin, "Ah, let's see. The day you're going to run a Level 1 diagnostic of the engineering systems?"

"Ha, Ha, Cap'n. I mean the New Year's Eve Party. Are you coming? Are you going to ask T'Pol to come?"

Jon looked surprised. "I didn't know we were having a New Year's Eve party. Did I approve it?"

"No, T'Pol did, based on your final approval. Man, does she drive a hard bargain. The stuff Hoshi and I had to agree to." Shaking his head, "Nothing harder than beer and not more than 3 beers each for the entire party. The doctor or his medic had to be in attendance for the party - no problem there. Phlox was more than happy to attend. We have to have food and snacks that Phlox recommends to absorb alcoholic beverages when 'partaken of.'"

Archer nodded, chuckling, "Yeah, she probably sent me a message on it. But I haven't read it yet. What time is it and where?"

"Its in the Mess Hall and starts at 9pm. Phlox, Hoshi, and The Chef have been working on the food that Phlox said would meet T'Pol's requirements. It actually doesn't taste that bad. At least according to Hoshi - she's been the taste tester."

Jon just looked at him with a grin on his face. "Well?", Trip asked.

"Well, what?"

Sighing in frustration, "Are you going to come and are you going to bring T'Pol?"

Archer started walking again, "Why do you want to know if I'm bringing T'Pol? Didn't you invite her to attend?" Archer glared at him.

Raising his hands in surrender, "Hey, don't look at me like that. Both Hoshi and I invited her, together and separately. She said she would consider it, but that someone needed to stay on the bridge."

Shrugging, "We thought that someone could spell her for awhile. Like what happened at the Christmas Party. I'm pretty sure she wouldn't like to stay the entire time with the 'beer drinking.' But, it wouldn't seem the same without her at least stopping in."

They walked on, almost to Jon's quarters. "Ya' know, she came to movie night this week and actually talked during the movie with us. Of course, she pointed out things we had missed. Then there was some stuff that she missed and we pointed that out. But it was okay."

Jon just smiled. They reached his quarters. "Okay, Trip, I'll probably come and I'll talk to T'Pol about the bridge."

Trip just stopped, "That's it? Nothing else?"

Looking slightly surprised, "What do you want me to do? Order T'Pol to come to the party? I don't think that would be a great idea, for any of us."

"T'POL TO COMMANDER TUCKER."

Exchanging glances with Archer, one amused - one not.

Sighing, "Tucker here, Sub-Commander."

"Commander, could you meet with Lt Reed and myself tomorrow morning at 0900 in Conference Room 1? We would like to discuss security measures with you."

"Yes, Ma'am. 0900 is fine with me."

"Thank you, Commander. T'Pol out."

Archer looked at him with startled amusement, "Ma'am? Since when do you call her Ma'am?"

Looking a little sheepish, "Well, the rest of the crew does, not often, but they do. I've never done it. I thought since I would say it to human females who outranked me, I should do it with T'Pol."

Still a little sheepish, "She made it easy on me. The first time I said it, I got one raised eyebrow, then nothing."

Archer grinned again, "Yeah, she does make some things we thought hard, easy."

Tucker grinned, "I'd like to hear your story."

"Not in this lifetime." Smirking, "Go, Trip. I've got lots of work to catch up on."

An hour later, Archer's door chimed. "Come."

In came T'Pol, "Captain, I received your message about the New Year's Eve party."

Archer smiled as she came in and put down his pad, "Why didn't you tell me about the party?"

"I sent you a message requesting to discuss it. However, with the upgrades in security, it seemed to become a secondary issue."

"Well, its fine with me. Are you going?"

She looked out the porthole, then back again, "I was planning on taking bridge duty that evening. Unlike Christmas, this party is not something that a Vulcan would partake."

Nodding, squinting a little at her, "Well, I guess that would be true."

"Though I thought that I would attend for a very short period of time. I anticipated that I would enter the Mess Hall at 2130, take a quick walk around the room, and then depart for the bridge." All that was said without expression.

With a shocked and amused expression on his face, "T'Pol! Are you trying to tell me that you were going to go to the party and intimidate the crew?"

Tilting her head, a mannerism he had come to realize meant she was trying to analyzing something, "Captain, I am uncomfortable with the alcohol and general doubtful behavior associated with this particular custom. I have researched New Year's Eve parties and my first thought was to disapprove the request."

She paused, "As I have been trying to be more understanding of human traditions and customs, I told Commander Tucker and Ensign Sato under what terms I would support this party. Also, if I come to the party, there is a high percentage that my presence would deter some of the extreme behavior from the crew."

He tried not to laugh. The plan was a good one, but not the one he wanted, "T'Pol, wouldn't your presence modify the behavior of the crew if you were to stay longer?"

An eyebrow arched up, "Captain..." She stopped when he gestured.

"Sub-Commander, I realize that coming to this party for more than a few minutes may be somewhat uncomfortable for a Vulcan, but why don't you come with me? We'll stay for a couple of hours, drink non-alcoholic punch, and generally keep an eye on the crew."

She looked at him. Well, it seemed more like her stare bore into his - at least to him. He could almost see the thoughts running through her mind. He was learning to wait for her answer, rather than pressure her.

Finally, "Agreed. You may pick me up at 2230." With that, she got up, "Good night, Captain."

Amused, again, 'I guess this proves that she has been doing a complete study of human customs.'

"Good night, Sub-Commander."

CONTINUED IN TRADITIONS, PART 5 Traditions, Part 5 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

THREE MONTHS AFTER THE NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY

On the good side, the Enterprise had mapped another section of space, visited 9 planets, and made first contact with 2 species. On the bad side, they barely survived an ion storm by running away from it. The ship had sustained damage and some of the crew had been injured. The ship was in working condition, but needed some materials for a complete repair, which they were searching for. Everyone was fine now, but one injury in particular bothered him. He still thought about it.

ONE MONTH EARLIER...

"Captain, I am detecting an ion storm at coordinates 135 mark 24," T'Pol reported from her Science Station.

She continued, "We need to make a course change to take us away from it. I would recommend course 00 mark 45, wrap 3."

With no hesitation, "Do it, Mayweather. Get us out of here." He looked over at T'Pol who was still staring into her sensor display.

"Captain, I would suggest polarizing the hull. An ion storm can change direction quickly and without much warning."

Archer quickly looked over at Reed who was looking at his station, "Yes, Captain, polarizing the hull now."

"Archer to Tucker."

"Tucker here. Cap'n, did we just polarize the hull?"

"Yes, we did, Trip. We're in the vicinity of an ion storm. You need to button down engineering."

"Great. Yes, sir. Tucker out." They could hear him begin to issue orders before he had cut the circuit.

Archer glanced back to T'Pol who still was focused on her sensor display.

Suddenly her arm shot out to the communications unit, "All hands, standby for impact."

As soon as she finished, the Enterprise was tossed around like a ship in a hurricane. It stopped after a few seconds.

Everyone had been able to maintain their seats, but some looked a little green.

"T'Pol, what was that?"

"Captain, we were hit by a finger of the ion storm. It has now retreated."

It was a good thing she had turned around to speak with the Captain, as the Science Station sensor display suddenly started smoking and sparks shot out of it.

T'Pol was up and away from her station, before anyone had realized she had moved. Vulcan speed was something they didn't see everyday.

"Archer to Tucker. Trip, the Science Station just went up in smoke. We need it back up and running now."

"Captain, I've got more problems down here. That ruckus we just went through has put some flickers into the plasma flow. We've got to watch that."

Tucker thought for a minute. "We've got that science station we rigged up for T'Pol down here. The one she uses for testing out experiments before implementing them into her bridge station."

T'Pol stared at him, "Agreed." Archer nodded and she left the bridge.

"Trip, she's on her way. Keep this channel open, we need to know what she sees."

"Aye, Captain. I'm going to go back to work, but we'll keep it open." They heard him walk away, "Henderson, power up the Sub-Commander's Science Station, she's coming down. Oh, and put her bridge station on the repair list."

They heard an acknowledgement, then in the background, "The station is powering up, all lights green. -- Good, good, now get over to engineering station 2 and watch the plasma flow injector." They continued to hear Trip and his crew working on their problem.

Then they heard a door open, "T'Pol, we've powered up your station."

"Thank you, Commander." Then, "Commander, what is that odor?"

"What odor? I don't smell anything." He sounded distracted.

More sternly, "Commander, there is an odor. It smells like insulation burning...over...there."

An explosion was heard over the intercom and the ship rocked slightly. Archer gripped his chair.

'Damn it,' he thought. He looked over at Malcolm, "Go. Take a security team. Alert medical."

Reed nodded, quickly spoke into his intercom and left the bridge.

Mayweather reported, "Captain, we have not changed course and we have not lost wrap capabilities. Navigation is working perfectly."

He nodded. They heard nothing, then finally some talking in the background.

A voice they couldn't place, "Medical emergency in Engineering. We have casualties."

Archer replied, "Yes, crewman. Security and medical are on their way."

In the background they could hear something else, the voice barely recognizable, "Lt Henderson, maintain station and continue watching the plasma injector. Ensign Williams, monitor the warp engines." Silence, then a ragged breath, "Lt Kowlaski, call in replacements for the Engineering Crew."

'Yes, Ma'ams' sounded in the background. "Ma'am, replacements are on their way." A short silence, "Sub-Commander, you need to sit down, you're bleeding." Archer's face became even more emotionless.

Hoarsely T'Pol replied, "Report, Lt."

"Commander Tucker and 5 other crew are unconscious. All engineering stations are working within normal parameters. Emergency crew are arriving. The fire has been put out, but we're continuing a safety watch on that area and its components.

Just at that time, the bridge heard Reed, Phlox and their teams arrive in Engineering. In 3 minutes, Phlox had the others loaded onto gurneys on their way to Sickbay.

Then, "Sub-Commander, please let me see." Silence, "Well, that must hurt - sorry." More subtle sounds, then softly, "You also need surgery. I would normally put you at the head of the line, but with your Vulcan physiology you can wait until after Commander Tucker. Although, it would help matters if you would go into a healing trance. Are you able to do that?" Silence, "Let me help you up on the gurney and then if you would begin the healing trance?" More sounds, then a controlled breath, "Very good, Sub-Commander. You may begin."

"Elizabeth, please take the Sub-Commander to Sickbay." They heard the gurney leave.

"Captain?"

Taking a breath himself, "Yes, Doctor. How is everyone?"

"Well, it could be worse, Captain. However, Sub-Commander T'Pol, Commander Tucker, and Ensign Blackmon will need surgery. They are the most injured. The others will need burn treatments, but probably no surgery. Everyone in Engineering at that time will need some breathing treatments, but will be alright. I'll keep you advised. Phlox out."

A few seconds later, Reed spoke up. Archer thought it was a lifetime. "Captain, Engineering is secure. The replacement crew are in place. I'll get Maintenance down here to clean up the blood."

Another silence, "It looks pretty bad, sir. There's a lot of blood. From what I understand, Sub-Commander T'Pol threw Commander Tucker behind her. That's why there's so much green blood. I guess she knew she could withstand injury better than Commander Tucker could." His voice drifted off.

Archer who had felt marginally better, now felt the tension remount in his shoulders.

"Thank you, Lt. When you're finished, please report to the bridge. Archer out."

Mayweather spoke up, "Captain? We have just passed the boundaries Sub- Commander T'Pol transmitted to me. We're in the clear."

Archer frowned, "When did she do that?"

"When she was in Engineering. After the explosion."

"Of course." He nodded. He got up from his chair.

"Travis, I'll be in Sickbay. You have the bridge."

Archer made his way to Sickbay. Nodding at crewmembers he met on his way. He stopped just inside the door as the whole room was in a state of emergency. Doctor Phlox was no where to be seen, but Ensign Cutler, and two other temporary sick bay attendants were rushing around. He looked around trying to find Tucker and T'Pol.

Crewman Wayne stopped by him and said, "Captain, Commander Tucker is already in surgery and Sub-Commander T'Pol is behind that curtain."

He nodded his thanks and visited with the crew on the diagnostic beds that were awake. He finally walked around the curtain and stood at the foot of her bed. She didn't notice him as she was in that healing trance he heard Phlox ask her about. It looked like she was sleeping, though she was pale. She was still dressed in her bloody uniform. He just stood there and stared.

The curtain suddenly opened and Phlox walked in. "Captain, I understand you've been here awhile."

Archer nodded.

Phlox continued, "Well, I'm happy to report that Commander Tucker will be just fine. He'll need to stay here for 2-3 days, then on light duty. But he should be just fine."

Archer looked back at T'Pol. "And the others?" Phlox watched him watch her.

"They'll also be fine. They've started their burn treatments. I'll keep them overnight, then decide tomorrow when to release them. Ensign Cutler has gone to Engineering to arrange a schedule to get everyone here for the breathing treatments."

Silence, "Ah, Captain. I need to wake the Sub-Commander, evaluate her current condition, and prep her for surgery."

Puzzled, Archer just looked at him. Phlox sighed and continued. "Captain, you've never seen how Vulcans are awakened from a healing trance. It can be somewhat traumatic for those watching."

Brows furling in confusion, "What exactly do you mean?"

Shrugging, "Watch." That said he went up to T'Pol, raised the top of the bed into a sitting position, and then slapped her, hard. He started to do it again, when Archer grabbed his hand.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?" He was furious, barely restraining himself from hitting Phlox.

"Captain, I told you it was traumatic." Taking his arm back from Archer, "Vulcans use healing trances to allow their bodies to heal. I would imagine if the injuries weren't too terribly severe, she could probably heal herself in about two weeks."

Gesturing to her injuries, "But these need more attention, so by placing herself into a healing trance, her body and mind have begun the healing process. Then I wake her, repair the remaining damage, transfuse some blood, and let her go back into a healing trance. She should be able to leave at the same time as Commander Tucker, even though she's injured worse than he."

"Okay, I get that, but why hit her?"

"Because she's so deeply in her mind, that's the only way I can get her attention. Its standard practice for Vulcans. I'm in more danger than she is. Watch."

That said, he hit her twice more. On the third time, she woke up and grabbed his hand.

Wincing, "T'Pol, I need that hand. Would you please release it?" Phlox said that with a tight sound in his voice.

She slowly released his hand as intelligence flowed back into her features.

"I apologize, Doctor. Are you injured?" At his shake, she turned to Archer - another glance was exchanged, one of those they hadn't been able to consciously decipher the meaning of yet. "Captain, is everyone alright? How is the ship?"

Archer smiled for the first time since the accident, "You and Tucker were hurt the worst. Blackmon will need surgery, but nothing like you two. The ship is out of danger and Engineering is making repairs." They stared at each other. She didn't blink or look away.

Phlox watched them, then started running his scanner over her. "Excellent, Sub-Commander. The surgery shouldn't take as long as I first thought. Shall we?"

They both looked at Captain Archer. He smiled and left the area.

He sat down by Trip. Waiting for him to wake up and for T'Pol to come out of surgery. Trip finally came around, "T'Pol!"

Archer looked at him in surprise, "No." He placed his hand on Tucker's arm.

"Trip, do you know where you are?"

Taking a deep breath, "Yeah, Sickbay, right? I know the smell."

Looking at Archer, "Where's T'Pol? Is she alright?" Agitated, "She grabbed me and threw me behind her. I never realized how strong she is, I couldn't move."

Jon, patted his shoulder, "She's fine, Trip. She's in surgery, but I was just talking to her. Phlox thinks you two will be outta here in a couple of days. Everyone else is fine. We didn't lose anyone. Lt Kowalski is in charge while you're here."

Nodding in relief, "Katy's a good engineer."

Trip closed his eyes for a moment, "I guess there was a power surge behind the panels near the science station. Only T'Pol would have noticed an odor. Thank God."

Archer checked in with the bridge. Everything was fine there, too. An hour later, T'Pol was out of surgery. She was already back in her healing trance so they didn't talk. Phlox assured him that she would be alright and awaken in a day or so.

She did. Everyone was fine. Another crisis passed.

CONTINUED IN TRADITIONS, PART 6 Traditions, Part 6 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

PRESENT DAY (MARCH)

The bridge was, well, boring. It had been that way since the ship had gotten damaged in the ion storm. Archer sat in his chair, Mayweather and Sato at their duty stations. Reed was in the Armory and T'Pol was in Engineering working on her standby science station.

"Captain, I am picking up a hail."

"Put in on, Ensign, and ask T'Pol to return to the Bridge," 'Its about time,' thought Archer.

On screen appeared a female. She had yellow tinted skin and reddish hair. "Greetings from the planet Harkarin. I am Indoran. We don't have many visitors in this area, and you are..." She paused as she got a good look at him.

"Greetings, I'm Captain Jonathon Archer, of the Starship Enterprise. It's a pleasure to meet you." At her look, he frowned a little. It was somewhat uncomfortable.

"'Captain' Archer. That's nice. You must be very good, to be allowed to call yourself Captain." He and the rest of crew were stunned at that comment.

But would be even more so at the next, "You're very good looking, I wonder if I could borrow you for awhile or at least a night."

At a loss of how to proceed after that, Archer began, "I..."

Then T'Pol entered with Lt Kowalski, Commander Tucker, and Lt Reed.

She didn't stop as she went forward, but not to her Science Station. "Commander Kowalski, please take your Engineering Station and familiarize your assistant with it."

"Yes, Ma'am." Kowalski replied and she and Trip, without any comments from him, went to the Science Station and began taking it off of automatic controls and rerouting sensors from the testing T'Pol had been doing in Engineering.

She continued forward until she was standing in front of Captain Archer. At the same time, Reed went over to Hoshi and quickly and quietly explained the situation to her. She nodded and got up, he sat down at Communications and she went to stand on one side of, and slightly behind, T'Pol.

T'Pol was still standing, staring at Indoran, saying nothing. 'Commander' Kowalski stepped from behind the Science Station and went to stand on the other side of T'Pol. Both were standing 'At Ease.' Trip sat down in T'Pol's chair and continued to check the sensors.

Both Kowalski and Sato turned to look at Archer. Sato deliberately moved only her eyes to look at the Security Station, then back at Archer. He slightly nodded, not pleased, but took position at Security. He automatically ran a security scan and found they were being targeted.

Finally, when the tension could have been cut with a knife, Indoran drawled, "A Vulcan. How interesting."

T'Pol continued to stare, without blinking or looking away. "I am T'Pol of Vulcan. This is the Starship Enterprise."

After one breath, nodding at Sato, "This is Commander Sato, my First Officer, and this is Commander Kowalski, my Chief Engineer."

Archer, without raising his head, looked at Tucker and Reed, who hadn't raised their heads from the consoles. He risked a glance at Mayweather, but he also had his head down. He followed suit.

"We are interested in trading. Are your markets still available?"

Nodding, "Yes, they are. What do you need?"

"We passed through an ion storm a month ago, and need to make some repairs. Commander Kowalski has the list of supplies that we require."

"Excellent, T'Pol of Vulcan." Then somewhat snidely, "Vulcans never change, do they? Always straight to the point. But we're an open-minded people. Our markets are open and you are more than welcome to come down and find your supplies. You do remember our rules, don't you?"

"Yes. Stand down your weapons."

Indoran waited a moment, then nodded. Archer confirmed that they were no longer being targeted.

Looking at T'Pol, with a look that hinted at malicious, "Tell me, T'Pol of Vulcan, the fair one we first spoke with, is he yours? If he isn't, perhaps I could borrow him?"

Archer's jaw clenched and Tucker and Reed momentarily froze.

T'Pol's face became even more icy, "Yes, Indoran, he is mine."

Surly, "What a shame. He looks quite invigorating. But he would be, if he has to please a Vulcan."

Pausing, then as if reciting a prepared, boring, statement, "As always, Harkarin extends its friendship to Vulcan. You and your officers are invited to the evening banquet tonight. You may bring your males if you wish."

T'Pol nodded. "This evening, then. T'Pol out."

The bridge was silent. Then Archer stood up, along with Tucker and Reed. Sato and Kowalski, let out small sighs.

Archer strolled over to T'Pol. "So, T'Pol of Vulcan, would you like to explain what that was all about?"

"No, Captain, but I do not think you would allow that."

Tucker snorted, he had the edited version. Archer was going to have heart failure.

Turning his attention to Trip, "How about you, Commander, none of this seemed to surprise you."

Looking at T'Pol for help, "Well, we got briefed in Engineering from T'Pol."

This time Mayweather tried to stifle a laugh.

"Et tu, Travis?" Archer asked.

Everyone had gone back to their normal duty stations, except T'Pol, Tucker, and Lt Kowalski.

"Captain, as I explained to Commander Tucker, and Lts Kowalski and Reed, the Harkarin are an intensely matriarchal society. Males have no place in their society except as...consorts."

Silence. She continued. "Vulcan males have a very low standing in Harkarin, but other males have none. That is why she spoke to you the way she did."

She resumed, "Ensign Sato and Lt Kowalski will need to accompany me this evening to the banquet. Indoran will expect them to attend with me. You, of course, have the option to come or stay here."

Travis snorted again. "Sub-Commander, I'll go if you need me, but I'd really rather stay here. I've dealt with the Harkarin before. I don't like being treated like a piece of property."

Archer turned back to T'Pol. "Sub-Commander, what was that you were saying - that I belonged to you?"

Straightening her shoulders, "Captain, if I had not claimed you, Indoran would have expected me to let you entertain her for the evening. I doubt if you would have been entertained."

His eyebrows raising, "No, Sub-Commander, I probably wouldn't have been." Amusement glinting in his eyes, "Well, for this mission, I guess I belong to you, T'Pol of Vulcan."

He had another question, "T'Pol, Indoran said that we males could accompany you, should we?" Everyone, except T'Pol, looked at him. All of the men were for not going to the banquet.

"T'Pol? Are there going to be other males there?" Frowning in sudden apprehension, "If we don't go with you, will this impact our getting the materials?"

T'Pol turned to Ensign Mayweather, "Ensign, please place us in standard orbit around Harkarin. Lt Reed, please ensure that whoever is at the Security Station, understands that there is a high probability that Harkarin will continue to target the ship throughout our stay here. Vulcan past experience has determined that they are trying to provoke a response. Under the circumstances, it would be better to not let them provoke us."

At Reed's nod, Archer just looked somewhat puzzled. She normally didn't make command decisions when he's on the bridge. Then he understood.

"Sub-Commander, you're not answering my question. Explain."

"Yes, Captain." Another pause, then "As I previously stated, Harkarin is an intensely matriarchal society. I need to strenuously stress that statement. Males of Harkarin, or any other species, have no standing whatsoever. Males may not be out after dark without being accompanied by their...protector. If they are, then they are put into confinement and if their protector does not come and get them, they will be...sold to the highest bidder."

She stopped while they grasped what she said. Mayweather already knew all this and broke in.

"Captain, what the Sub-Commander is trying to delicately say, is that men are concubines and treated like property. To be bought and sold. They have no rights whatsoever. The more males a female has, the more respect and power she has. The more she is a player in their planetary politics."

With a grim smile, "I remember one time, when I was young, we really needed some supplies for repairs. But we needed a lot and only had a little with which to trade. We had dealt with them several times before, so my parents decided it was time to play in the big game. Mom always ran the show when we dealt with Harkarin, but the stakes were higher this time. After talking with the rest of group, it was agreed to take almost all of the men and older boys from our ships. They would go with her down to the planet. One hundred males, 10 shuttles went with her."

Shaking his head at the memory, "Mom and Dad tried to explain it to me and I thought I did understand. But when it came down to it, it was awful. Even though we were in 5 person ranks, we still got looked at and treated like we were beef. But Mom and everyone pulled it off. We got what we wanted for what we had. But it had taken the assumed power she had by owning a lot of men. We didn't go back there for another 5-years."

Looking a little distressed, the men looked at each other, than T'Pol.

Archer finally said, "T'Pol, how many men do you need to have power?"

She didn't answer, but they could tell she was considering something. Mayweather broke in again.

"Sir, T'Pol probably won't say it, but as a Vulcan female she already has power in this society. Males who accompany her will only add more prestige and power to her." Mayweather glanced over at her.

"Thank you, Ensign." Turning back to Archer.

"Captain, Ensign Mayweather is correct, in both areas. As a Vulcan, I do not need to take any males with me. None of you need to subject yourselves to this planet's society."

Archer crossed his arms, "But what would serve the Enterprise best?"

Arching both eyebrows, conceding that point, "Very well. Lt Kowalski and Ensign Sato will accompany me. You, Commander Tucker, Lt Reed, and Doctor Phlox will be my males. You, Captain, have already been identified as my Favorite. The one who currently meets my...needs."

Tucker muttered, "Great, just great."

Everyone looked at him. "There is more, Captain."

"Of course there is, Sub-Commander. Please continue."

She arched an eyebrow at his response, then nodded. "You may wear your uniforms, but an IDIC will need to be added. To mark you as Vulcan or part of Vulcan."

"Hmmmm," he nodded.

Mayweather also nodded. He was feeling very uncomfortable about what they would have to do. "Sub-Commander, I can explain the rest to them, if you want to talk with Kowalski and Sato."

"I appreciate your suggestion, Ensign, but it would make the end result somewhat less uncomfortable if we discussed everything together. However, please contribute any information you gained from your interactions with the Harkarin."

Travis looked at her, "Sub-Commander, have you ever been to Harkarin?" "Yes, I was part of a delegation approximately 2.5 earth standard years ago. We brought two male Vulcans with us so they could experience another humanoid society."

"Uh-huh. Does that mean you didn't have to...fondle them?"

Both Archer and Tucker jerked in shock at that - Reed looked stunned.

Tucker burst out, "Now just a dang gum minute! No one is fondling me!"

Sato and Kowalski had just been watching the conversation, not participating. They knew they were going as the command crew for T'Pol. They both snorted, trying not to laugh.

T'Pol looked at Tucker. "Please calm yourself, Commander. As a Vulcan, they will not expect me to touch the males - theirs or you. However, they may expect me to touch the Captain."

Tucker looked relieved, and smirked at Archer. "Well, he is the Favorite."

"Just so."

"How so, Sub-Commander?" This from Archer who had again crossed his arms and did not look pleased.

She looked over his shoulder, then at him, "Captain, I will not...fondle you...However, I may touch your hand, your knee. They understand that Vulcans are not demonstrable."

Reed spoke up for the first time, "Sub-Commander, you said that they will not expect you to 'fondle' your males or theirs. Will they try to 'fondle' us?"

Archer and Tucker stared at her, awaiting that answer.

"Under normal circumstances, the answer would be yes." She waited a brief moment as they sputtered. "However, as I am Vulcan they know they are not allowed to touch our males."

"Why?" Shot out from Archer.

"On the first meeting with the Harkarin, coincidently, the captain was a Vulcan female, they tried to touch her First Officer. As they already had gained an understanding of the society, the Captain grasped the wrist of the offender. When the offender persisted, the Captain crushed the wrist of the offender."

Hoshi said softly, "Crushed?"

"Yes, Ensign. Crushed."

T'Pol resumed her narrative, "Then a different Vulcan ship had a second meeting with the Harkarins. Again, someone tried to touch one of the Vulcan males, and this time their wrist was only broken. On the visit that I participated, no one tried to touch the Vulcan males."

Looking at the men, "I would recommend that you wear the IDIC prominently. As you may be required to go to and from the kitchens."

"Damn straight. I'm gonna glue it to my forehead."

"Your uniform should be sufficient, Commander."

"Ah, Captain." Travis came into the conversation again, "Don't look the other women in the eye - or even at them. It could be considered either as an affront or a come-on. Either way, T'Pol may end up having to fight for you. Its best if you keep your eyes down and stay close to T'Pol."

Everyone was silent. This was just way too weird.

Then Kowalski spoke up, "Sub-Commander, do you have enough IDICs for everyone? Do we need to make any?"

"I have two, we will need another 5. Also, I will need to update Doctor Phlox as his role will be slightly different than yours."

Archer was getting tired of asking 'how so,' but, "How so?"

"He is a doctor. He is considered one of the males, but slightly elevated to the others."

At his look of 'great, I'm lovin' this,' she continued, "But not as elevated as the Favorite."

"I'm very...touched."

"Also, Captain." She broke off at his look.

"Yes?"

Once again, her Vulcan stoicism enabled her to work through difficult situations, "All the men should eat prior to going down to the planet." At their look of astonishment, then resignation.

"Alright. I'm guessing you'll be eating, but we won't be."

"Correct. You will be serving my meal."

"Great. Anything else, Sub-Commander?"

"No sir. Other than I will need to meditate for an hour before we depart in the shuttle. I will also not be wearing just my uniform, but a traditional Vulcan robe over it."

Everyone was shell-shocked at this point and merely nodded at her. T'Pol left the bridge to the humans.

Mayweather shifted in his seat, "Sir, is there is anything else I can answer for you?"

Everyone looked at him, then Tucker groused, "Let me get this straight? We all belong to T'Pol of Vulcan. Men are playthings. We can't go outside or to the restroom without her permission? We don't think, we just act. We're servants, among other things we won't mention. We can't look at other women."

"Ahh, Commander? The men will walk behind Lt Kowalski and Ensign Sato, who will walk behind T'Pol. If I were you, I'd also keep my behind to the wall, when you're not doing anything."

Thinking over everything, "Oh yeah, call her Ma'am."

Everyone just looked at him.

Trip muttered to Archer, "If we didn't need those supplies so badly..."

Archer nodded, agreeing with him.

"C'mon Kowalski, let's go make those IDICs - and I wasn't kidding about the glue. I never thought I would hide behind a Vulcan and their symbol 'IDIC,' whatever that means."

"It means 'Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations'," that from Phlox who had just entered the bridge.

"Sub-Commander T'Pol just me briefed on our mission to Harkarin. This is exciting, but I would imagine that you're feeling, shall we say, downtrodden, used, and seen only as sex objects."

Tucker gave him a dirty look, "C'mon Kowalski."

Everyone went back to their stations, leaving Archer alone with Phlox.

"Captain, do you understand what it means to be named 'Favorite' in Harkarin society?"

"T'Pol did explain that she may touch my hand or knee and that I meet her 'needs'."

Nodding, "She may also touch your stomach, chest, buttocks, face, or anyplace else that she wants. Though I doubt a Vulcan would do that, and T'Pol would certainly not embarrass you. Its good thing she's a Vulcan, she can get away without doing things that the Harkarin will do to their males. Try not to look surprised or shocked at what you see this evening."

"Great. Anything else I should know?"

"You need to be very attentive to T'Pol. She will be judged by your behavior." Phlox watched Archer digest this information.

"Doctor, how attentive and why didn't T'Pol say something?"

"My guess would be she thought you would be embarrassed. She knows how you feel about Vulcans." Before Archer could say anything, "The exception being T'Pol herself."

A few seconds of silence, "In attentive, I mean you need to ensure she has enough to eat, drink. She's warm enough. Creature comforts. You also need to stay quite close to her, you need to ensure they realize you are her Favorite. She's Vulcan, she won't be able to do it, with the exception of the exchange of looks and glances." Archer just stared at him.

Phlox smiled, "Though, of course, you two already have that one down. You should touch her occasionally. Well, I need to get ready and get the IDIC symbol attached to my uniform. Oh, I'll be wearing a Starfleet uniform this evening. I hope that won't be a problem?"

Archer fighting to keep his face appearing natural, "No, no problem at all." Nodding, "Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate the information."

Archer finally sat down in his chair, thinking, 'How in the world am I going to continue to work with T'Pol after this?'

In her quarters, T'Pol was meditating over the same concern.

CONTINUED IN TRADITIONS, PART 7 Traditions, Part 7 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

ONE HOUR AFTER THE HARKARIN BOMBSHELL

"T'Pol to Captain Archer."

Thumbing the control, "Archer here, go ahead Sub-Commander."

"Captain, would you please come to my quarters? I need to discuss the mission with you."

A pause. "I'll be right there. Archer out."

Looking over at Reed, "Lt, you have the bridge. Would you please check with Commander Tucker on the IDICs?"

As Reed acknowledged, Archer left the bridge.

Her door opened at his chime. She was again on the other side of the room and again he stopped in the middle. There were two IDICs on her desk.

She looked at him, then slide her gaze away. He could almost see her wrap herself inside her Vulcan control. She looked back, and yep, whatever she was going to say was going to be good.

"Captain, I must apologize for this mission. It will be uncomfortable for you and the other crew members. The last time was I on Harkarin, I was interested in analyzing the society and viewed it as a scientist."

He was watching her closely, "And this time?"

Her eyes shielded even more, "This time, you and the others will directly feel this society's ways and I would not normally subject any of you to this."

He nodded, but stayed silent.

She walked back to the porthole, "Captain, I am aware of how you feel about Vulcans. I am hoping that the away mission will not damage our ability to work with one another."

Not looking at him, she continued, "Vulcan is an old world. For eons we were warrior-like and treated others as this planet does. Then came the great wars. Surak arose out of those with his message of logic, peace, and knowledge. We grew. Vulcan is not perfect, but neither is Earth. All we can do is continue to learn and go forward."

She stopped. Archer was stunned at this confidence, Vulcans never discussed pre-Surak times, even in so few sentences.

"T'Pol, why are you telling me this?" He walked a few steps closer to her.

"Captain." Stopping, then starting again, "Jonathon, you will be displeased during this evening's banquet. I will do everything in my ability to protect you and the others. I do not approve of this society, neither does Vulcan. But it is not ours and Vulcan does not presume to have the right to redesign it to our specifications. Change can only come from within a society." She looked deeply at him, "Jonathon, over the past months, I thought that we were beginning to understand each other and I was beginning to understand the crew more than our first year together. I would hope that this evening - being considered property of a Vulcan, observing the events, and enduring the prejudice and degrading actions this evening will bring, will not interfere with this understanding."

Archer's expression had softened during her speech. She had called him Jonathon, twice, without his urging. Something she only did when the conversation was intensely personal.

"T'Pol, I am not pleased with this society and with what will be required of me and the others. However, we do need the materials, and," sighing, "it was me that responded to their hail."

Cocking his head at her, "Would you have answered their hail?"

"It would have depended on how great our need was, but it would be logical to obtain the materials we need as soon as we can."

Smiling faintly, "Logical, of course. You're right, I won't enjoy having to bow and scrape to those Harkarin females, and it does make me angry. But not at you. You kept trying to give me an out - not to go. But it was me who kept pushing you."

"T'Pol, my feelings won't be hurt." She raised an eyebrow at that statement, "Phlox came up to the bridge after you had spoken to him. He told me you would be judged by my behavior and you would gain or lose status. He told me to be attentive to you."

Shrugging, "I'm the Captain, I'm a male, I have an ego. I have a temper." He stopped as she kept nodding.

Looking at her with askance, "T'Pol, you don't have to agree with everything I say."

She arched her eyebrow and tilted her head to one side, and in true Vulcan style, "But, Jonathon, I do not, if I disagree."

Looking at her, "Anyway, my feelings won't be hurt, it will be my pride." Walking over to her chair, he sat down.

"What is the worst that could happen? You've already told us no one will 'fondle' us. We'll have to ensure that you, Hoshi, and Katy are fed, watered, and kept comfortable. We'll have some, probably degrading or obscene, comments made to and about us. We'll wear the IDICs and you'll be there. That should be the worst, right?"

She looked down, "Yes, that is the expected scenario for this evening." Pausing, "How do you feel about me possibly touching you?"

He laughed at that, "T'Pol, I touch you. I know you won't touch me like I was a prized bull or anything. So if you touch my hand, knee, arm, chest or face, it will be to keep control of the situation."

They exchanged that look again, understanding a little more what it meant. Trust, beginnings of an understanding and friendship, and something else that draws them closer, and then makes them jump back, but not quite as far.

She eventually nodded and went to her table where she picked up on the IDICs. She did something to its back and crossed over to stand in front of Archer.

"May I?" He nodded. She placed it carefully under the golden brown seam on his uniform and pressed it gently into the fabric. It vaguely vibrated and attached itself. He watched her carefully.

He looked down at it in surprise. "What was that?''

"It is a small servo that will hold it in place until released. It will not come off, even if your uniform tears off." He grimaced at her.

She stepped back and opened her closet door, where the mirror was attached.

He walked over, trying not to look at her personal belongings, and studied the IDIC on his chest. He never thought he'd be wearing a Vulcan symbol. Then again, he never thought he would have a Vulcan First Officer, nor that he would become accepting of that Vulcan.

He glanced over at her, "Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations?"

"Yes. It means that there is no one true way, but an infinite diversity of ways in infinite combinations."

He said slowly, "That's very enlightened."

"But you would say that Vulcans do not always show that enlightenment?" Her face a Vulcan mask.

He nodded.

"Perhaps so," is all she would say.

She walked back over to the table and picked up the remaining IDIC. She set the servo and pulled her robe from the closet. She placed the symbol on the left side, close to the neck. It vibrated into place.

Jonathon looked at it. "It looks like mine. Will they all look like this?"

"No, these are my own symbols. I sent directions to Commander Tucker on how to make generic IDICs. Yours being different, but matching mine, will designate Favorite."

"You do not mind being known as my "Favorite?" She said this rather tonelessly, but the very tonelessness, informing him that she was concerned about his answer.

Thinking about that, again, "Not really. I mean if it was anyone else, then yes." Teasing her, "I know you won't compromise my honor."

For his efforts, he got an arched eyebrow.

"You know, T'Pol, humans must be contaminating you. You told two lies."

At her unblinking stare, he continued, "The first was promoting Sato and Kowalski to Commander, and then, of course, me being your 'Favorite'."

Tilting her head, "Based upon their performance of their duties, I would assign a high probability that Lt Kowalski and Ensign Sato will, eventually, be promoted to Lt Commander."

Grinning at her, "Okay, I agree. I'll give you that one. Next."

Raising an eyebrow, "You are my Captain. If I were human, you could say you are my favorite Captain."

Archer stared at her, stunned. He wasn't sure if she was teasing him or not. Vulcans don't tease, do they?

"REED TO CAPTAIN ARCHER."

He walked over to her terminal, "Yes, Lt?"

"Sir, Commander Tucker's finished the IDICs. He's asked for you and the Sub-Commander to meet everyone in Sickbay."

'Okay, but why Sickbay?"

"Doctor Phlox is running late in getting his uniform fitted. He asked if everyone could meet there."

"Alright, tell him we're on our way. Archer Out."

"T'Pol, I forgot to ask what time is the banquet?"

She looked at the chronometer, "One hour."

Grimacing, "Great. Let's go."

They walked into Sickbay one step behind Phlox, who didn't look too bad in the uniform. Everyone was lined up, waiting. The situation was surreal, and they weren't exactly sure how to act.

Reed spoke up, "Sir, Ensign Mayweather has the bridge while we're gone."

"Good." Gesturing to T'Pol. "Okay, lets get everyone IDIC'd up."

T'Pol passed them out and gave instruction on how to place them on their uniforms. She looked everyone over and nodded.

"Sub-Commander, are you ready for your next injection?" Phlox asked her as he went to get an injector. She nodded and went over to him.

Archer looked at both of them, "What injection?"

Phlox, "Oh, Vulcans are allergic to an enzyme in the Harkarin food." Gesturing at T'Pol, "Perhaps you should sit on the diagnostic bed this time." Agreeing, she pulled herself up on it.

Everyone was watching this turn of events, and Archer stalked over to them. "Does someone want to explain this to me?"

They both blinked at him, then Phlox continued, "As I said, Vulcans are allergic to an enzyme in the Harkarin food. If T'Pol doesn't take three injections, she'll become sick. She's had one already, now for the second, then the third at the banquet."

With the injection in hand, "Are you ready?" She nodded.

He gave her the injection and waited. She swallowed and her eyes were locked in an intense inward stare. She swayed and Phlox and Archer grabbed her.

"What the hell was that?" Archer demanded. Phlox removed his hand from her arm and stepped back to get the scanner. However, Archer kept his hand on her arm as she steadied herself.

"It seems that the injections have a side effect. It momentarily disrupts her circulatory system, as you just saw. But its quickly over." He ran the scanner over her.

Smiling and nodding, "Very good, Sub-Commander. You recovered much more quickly this time. No one should even notice your last injection at the banquet."

Glancing up at Archer as he put together his away kit, "Of course, Captain, you should probably stand close to her to make sure any symptoms of the injections are disguised."

"Yeah. Right." Glaring at them, he jerked his head, "If you're able, Sub- Commander, please come with me."

Contrary to his words, he assisted her off the diagnostic bed, then stalked out the door into the hallway. She followed him, all without saying a word.

Tucker and the others watched the entire incident. "Doc, what the hell is goin' on?" He looked around, "Can someone tell me how we got into this position?"

Hoshi answered innocently, "The Captain answered a hail."

Everyone was standing around looking at each other, as they waited for the Captain and Sub-Commander to come back in.

"T'Pol will need one more injection. We'll need to make sure no one notices." They all nodded and continued to wait.

In the silence, Sato asked, "Doctor, have you been here before?"

"No, I haven't. But I've seen other matriarchal or patriarchal societies, and they are very much alike. They would hate to know that." Inquiringly, "Yours was patriarchal at one time, wasn't it?"

Sato and Kowalski smirked at him, everyone else just looked at him, and all went back to waiting.

Another five minutes passed. Finally, Trip asked, "What the heck are they doin' out there?"

What were they doing? T'Pol was standing with her back to the wall and Archer was pacing in front of her. All without saying a word. Every time Archer tried, he just got madder. He wasn't sure at whom.

Finally, "Why didn't you tell me about the injections?"

"Captain, it makes no difference to the mission. We require these supplies and this is the way to get them. Vulcan physiology is based on copper, whereas human is based on iron. If this were another world, you may need an injection where I would not."

Glaring at her, "Very logical, but not good enough. I should have been informed."

Staring at nothing, "Yes, Captain."

Sighing, "T'Pol, this is very important. I need to be kept informed when one of the crew is in danger."

"Captain, I informed Doctor Phlox of the medical needs for this mission. I ensured that I was protected." He looked at her, then sighing at himself, "T'Pol, I don't know if I'm angry at you or at me for placing all of us in this situation, and I'm taking it out on you. But you should have told me."

This time she met his eyes, "Yes, Captain."

Archer gave her a slight smile. "Okay, let's go"

"Captain, there is one more thing."

Archer dropped his head and then tilted it to look at her. "Of course, there is. But why wait until now to tell me?"

T'Pol looked rather uncomfortable and quickly glanced up and down the hallway.

Quizzically, "T'Pol?"

She took a quiet breathe, and looked at him. "Jonathon, there is a customary gesture between Vulcan mates." She stopped and he just looked at her.

"Alright, what is it?" The use of his name signified this was, again, personal.

"When the Vulcan missions were on Harkarin, the Vulcan female in-charge brought her mate. Thereby, meeting both Harkarin custom and Vulcan. It is a gesture that the Harkarin have seen Vulcans do." She paused, trying to find the correct wording to somewhat define the custom.

Archer looked at her, then lightly touched her shoulder, "What is it?"

She stared up at him, then put out her right hand, palm up, the first and second fingers extended. The remainder curled back against her hand.

He looked confused, but touched her fingers with his own. He felt a warmth, but it wasn't the normal Vulcan higher body heat he felt when he touched her. Then it left quickly, so quickly he thought he had imagined it.

Watching their hands, "This is what Vulcan mates do?"

"Yes."

"What does it mean?"

Making a decision, "Jonathon, you know that Vulcans do not like to touch others?"

Nodding and watching her intently, their fingers still touching.

"Touching denotes an intimacy granted only to mates."

"When Vulcan mates do this - it means?"

"In human terms, it is a kiss."

"A kiss?" he asked very quietly.

They simply stared at each other. No blinking - just an intensity - an intimacy.

"Cap'n, are...What...OH," Trip ducked back into Sickbay.

Archer and T'Pol jerked apart.

She quietly said, "Jonathon, we need to depart."

Just as quietly, "Yeah, right." The intensity between them strong, "Where's your robe?"

"In Sickbay."

Nodding, "Let's go."

They entered Sickbay and everyone looked at them.

Trip slowly walked toward them, "Cap'n...I'm...I didn't..."

Archer waved off his apology, but looked at him. Trip shook his head, indicating he hadn't told anyone what he saw - but then again, he wasn't sure what he saw.

T'Pol had gone to put her robe on. Hoshi went over to help her. When she turned around she reflected the complete Vulcan. Serene, silent, calm, intimidating. Just what they needed.

"Let us go." At that, T'Pol, followed by Sato and Kowalski, left the room. Phlox coming directly behind. The rest looked at each other.

Archer, with smirk, "Well, I guess its time to go to the party. As T'Pol of Vulcan said, 'Let's go'." They went.

CONTINUED IN TRADITIONS, PART 8 Traditions, Part 8 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

The trip down to the planet went normally, and Tucker landed them at the designated location.

As they had planned during the trip, Sato and Kowalski opened the hatch, stepped outside, scanned the area, and waited on each side of the opening. T'Pol then stepped out, stopped just in front of Sato and Kowalski, and also looked around the area. They were projecting an aura of power and disdain. They were playing the game.

Archer looked at the men in the shuttle. He got up and went to stand at the hatch, waiting for the women to move out. He saw T'Pol give a small nod.

"Alright, gentlemen, let's go." He looked back, "And, remember, when you're not doing anything, keep your butts to the wall."

"Great, just great," Trip muttered for the thousandth time.

As T'Pol, Hoshi, and Katy walked away from the shuttle pod, Archer and Phlox stepped out, then Malcolm and Trip.

Malcolm whispered to Trip, "Commander, you're going to have to come up with a new saying. You've said that about a thousand times."

"Shut-up."

As they stepped out, they quickly scanned the area, and saw a delegation of Harkarin waiting to greet T'Pol. The entourage walked over to halt in front of Indoran, who had her own entourage. It was bigger than T'Pol's, but it still had the same amount of prestige and power. Vulcans carried power with them.

T'Pol waited. Indoran said nothing. But she knew she couldn't outwait a Vulcan, which only added to her irritation.

She looked over the rest of the entourage. Sato and Kowalski looked back, however, the men kept their eyes trained on the women's backs. She took her time when she saw Archer. Really gave him a long look over, liking what she saw. Archer didn't, but he kept his anger concealed.

T'Pol raised an eyebrow. Indoran looked back at her, "Welcome to Harkarin, T'Pol of Vulcan." She looked over at Sato and Kowalski, "Commanders," she nodded. They nodded back with a single nod of their heads.

"Thank you, Indoran, for your welcome. I appreciate your willingness to allow us to resupply the ship and for the invitation to the banquet."

Ah, the game of politics, With an insincere smile, "A gracious Vulcan. How unusual. Even more unusual, to have a entourage without any other Vulcans."

T'Pol merely looked at Indoran, her hands folded into the sleeves of her robe. She looked undisturbed by any of her comments. The calm, cool, Vulcan.

Casting another look at Archer, she gestured to T'Pol. "Please come this way. I will escort you to the banquet."

T'Pol nodded and they went towards a beautiful red building. It had graceful arches, spirals, and was decorated with sweeping trees and flowering plants. The sun was setting and blanketed everything in warm purple rays. The entryway was large enough to accommodate both entourages.

As they entered the banquet room, all eyes turned to them. Conversations stilled, then restarted.

Indoran led them to a banquet table just to the left of the head table. The table was approximately 2 meters long, with 3 deeply cushioned chairs. It was draped with luxurious silken fabrics of reds and gold. There were precious metal plates, crystal stemware, and silverware at each seat. The table was 1.5 meters from the wall.

Indoran gestured to the table. "Vulcans have always sat at the left side of the monarch, you are honored." Indoran stared at T'Pol.

T'Pol bowed her head slightly in acknowledgement.

Indoran returned the bow. "The drink is directly on the left and the food is on the right. Your males may come and go as you need." With a salacious look at Archer, Indoran and her entourage went to their table - on the right.

T'Pol gestured to the chairs, and Sato and Kowalski chose a chair on each side of T'Pol. Tucker stood behind Sato and Reed behind Kowalski. Phlox and Archer stood on each side of T'Pol.

They had decided earlier that it would be best to separate the engineers. In case Kowalski had to leave during the banquet, Reed would accompany her, and that left another engineer in case they needed one. T'Pol had also suggested that it would be more appropriate for everyone to call each other by their first names.

T'Pol tilted her head towards Archer. "Jonathon, you and the others should go and get water, no wine."

Nodding, he, Trip, and Reed went to get water, and Phlox stayed with T'Pol. As they passed the other tables, they were openly ogled. They also heard some appraising 'hmmms' from the Harkarins.

The Harkarin males were actually quite beautiful. They also had yellow- tinted skin, but it had a more golden hue. Their hair was dark and their eyes were a wonderful light green color.

But what was happening to them wasn't beautiful. Since Archer and the others had their eyes trained down, they were able to see everything that was happening. Some Harkarin males were kneeling besides the sitting females, some were standing behind their chairs, some were being...petted. Their attributes were being discussed, appraised, and openly fondled.

The Enterprise crew was shocked, angry, and if truth be told, somewhat concerned about someone 'appraising' them. They hoped T'Pol's presence would deter that, and they were trying hard not to show their disgust.

When they were at the drink table, Archer whispered, "Let's get some food, too. I don't want to be out here any longer than necessary." They nodded in agreement.

When they returned, they walked behind the table and put the pitchers and platters down in front of each place.

T'Pol gestured at Archer. He leaned down. She asked softly, "Jonathon, is everything alright?"

He kept his head down, but gritted out, "T'Pol, that was awful. Do you see what they're doing out there?"

She was silent for a moment, "Yes, I do." Contemplatively, "You are angry. Are angry at me?"

"No. Yes. No. Why doesn't Vulcan do something about this society? Why do you trade with it?"

She said softly, "Jonathon, kneel down. We are being watched and it will prevent injuries to your back."

He froze for a minute, then did it, on one knee. He saw her hand make the Vulcan gesture of intimacy. He gently placed his fingers on hers. There was that warmth again, and again, it quickly vanished.

She leaned towards him and whispered, "Jonathon, do you recall how Indoran treated me and has continued to treat me?"

He nodded.

"Jonathon, you can look at me, and so can the others. The Vulcan males look at the Vulcan females. However, they do honor the custom of not looking at or interacting with the Harkarin females."

He looked at her. He thought about that. Enlightenment. "So, what you're trying to tell me, is that while Vulcan honors the custom of not looking at the Harkarin females, they don't continue the custom with other Vulcans."

At her nod, "Then why am I kneeling?"

"Because we are trying not to flaunt our differences, by ignoring or belittling local customs. Our differences are obvious and everyone can see them."

He considered something, "If you weren't here, would we be able to do the mission the same way?"

She silently examined her answer, "It is possible, but highly improbable. Earth does not have a relationship with the Harkarin."

T'Pol had been trying to shield against Archer's emotions. But when she touched him, it was as if she was trying to hold back the ocean. But instead of trying to fight it, she made the decision to wade through it. She took the emotion and calmed it. It was not something she was familiar with doing, but seemed appropriate.

Jonathon sighed, then he half-smiled. "I'm sorry, T'Pol. I'm taking out my frustrations out on you. So, Indoran doesn't like Vulcans because while they observe the custom on Harkarin with Harkarins, they don't practice it among themselves."

Nodding, "Yes. She feels that it is a threat to her culture."

Just as he was going to say something else, Phlox broke in. "T'Pol, you need the last injection."

T'Pol nodded and removed her fingers from Archer's. While Phlox unobtrusively removed the injector, Archer continued to stare at T'Pol. Phlox nodded at him to disguise the injection, so he leaned forward and kissed her. Everyone at the table stared. So did the room, but as others were doing it, the room went back to its business.

The table didn't, they watched. As Archer was kissing T'Pol, he felt the injection as if it was his own. He felt her circulatory system's initial rejection of the injection. He felt a power sweep through him as it fought the rejection, but it seemed the power was going in two different directions. Her lips were so warm.

T'Pol was surprised, stunned. She had not expected Archer to kiss her. She felt his lips on her own, the emotions flowing through her, then the injection. She summoned her attention back to controlling her body's reaction, but she also had to control emotions that were her own and weren't. His lips were so cool.

He pulled back slowly, watching her. He was somewhat relieved she was
Vulcan, at least she
wouldn't hit him until after she thought about it. But T'Pol's look
slide past him.

Indoran was walking toward the table, with a malicious smile on her
face. When she
arrived, she smirked. "Well, well, well. I thought Vulcans didn't
touch, other than fingers."
She looked at Archer, "I know I'd like to touch him, in all kinds of
places."

T'Pol stared at her, unblinkingly. Intimidating. She put her hand
gently on Archer's arm and
lightly pushed him behind her.

Still she said nothing. Indoran was beginning to become uneasy. 'That damn Vulcan stare. And they're so much stronger than we are. But she's not doing anything. And she's all alone. No other Vulcans. She can't be that strong. If I take her male, I'll get her power, then I'll be stronger than ever.'

Indoran reached out to grab Archer, in the method that Harkarin's used. In a place where men, or anyone for that matter, don't like to be grabbed.

Before the grab was completed, Indoran felt her wrist grabbed. She tried to pull it away. Forward, backward, twisting it side to side. Nothing.

She thought quickly, she knew she had one more chance to redeem this situation. The room was silent - everyone was watching. Hoshi and Katy sat motionless in their seats, watching the room to make sure no one else was planning on joining. No one else did.

T'Pol watched Indoran and knew her intent. With Vulcan speed she reached the hand before it got to Jonathon. She would only hold the arm, preventing her from doing anything, until she gave up. Of course, there was the low probability that she would continue to try to reach him with her other hand.

Indoran took a desperate chance and tried to grab him with her other hand. The pressure changed from holding her in place, to crushing. The pain was excruciating, she crashed down to her knees, crying out, trying to pry the punishing hand away.

Archer saw Indoran's hand reaching for him, then T'Pol's hand grabbing Indoran's wrist. He saw Indoran try to pull it away, then the other hand reach for him. Before he could back away, Indoran collapsed, crying out in pain. She was clawing at T'Pol's hand, trying to pry it from her wrist.

The table watched T'Pol in total astonishment. There she was sitting in her chair, her demeanor - unemotional, she could have been observing a scientific experiment. Then there was Indoran, totally emotional, crying out in pain, on her knees, trying in vain to remove T'Pol's hand from her wrist.

They knew, intellectually, about Vulcan strength. They knew Vulcans were physically stronger than humans, but had never really seen it. Vulcans didn't show-off their physical strengths. Their perceived arrogance was normally enough to put others off.

Phlox pulled out his scanner and started to scan Indoran. Archer looked at T'Pol, who was still watching Indoran.

"Desist and I will release you." T'Pol had again changed her grip. This time back to holding her in place. "He is mine."

The pain was intense, pulsing through her arm, but Indoran managed to say, "Agreed. He is yours." T'Pol continued to hold her wrist, without damage, for another 5 seconds, then released it.

"Doctor, can you assist Indoran?"

"Yes, of course. I have already scanned the injury and you indeed broke her wrist." He scanned it once more, "Though, of course, if you had increased your pressure another milligram, you would have crushed the bones in her wrist."

"No more than what she deserved. She attempted to gain power by taking away a Favorite from a guest, and a Vulcan no less." This came from the Monarch's table. The Monarch had arrived and watched the entire process. "She has paid the price."

T'Pol stood and bowed to the Monarch, the others followed suit. "Your Majesty, please accept my apologies for this unfortunate circumstance."

"No apologies are necessary. You acted in accordance with the laws of this planet. You have offended none."

The Monarch took a drink and she continued, "You are welcome to stay this evening in my guest quarters. I would enjoy talking with a Vulcan again. You have a most unusual point of view."

Bowing her head in acknowledgement, "I accept. Thank you for your kindness."

The Monarch nodded in acknowledgement, "Oh, the supplies you requested will be available tomorrow," then she turned to speak with another person.

During this conversation with the Monarch, Phlox had been repairing Indoran's wrist. Archer and the rest were still staring - sometimes at T'Pol, others at Indoran. T'Pol had gotten up from her chair only when the Monarch made herself known.

T'Pol turned to look at them, "Doctor?"

"Yes, Ma'am. All fixed. For the damage done, it was done very precisely. I congratulate you. She should have no residual problems."

Nodding, T'Pol turned towards Hoshi, "Commander Sato, please inform Enterprise that we are staying the night at the Palace."

Hoshi nodded and pulled out her communicator.

"Commander Kowalski, please make arrangements for the Enterprise to accept shipment tomorrow from the surface of the supplies we requested and arrange for payment."

At another 'Yes, Ma'am,' T'Pol turned to Archer. He looked at her, shock on his face. He didn't know how he felt. He KNEW that she was strong. He KNEW that she was stronger than he was. He KNEW she had protected him - as she said she would. He also KNEW that she let him take care of her, because it suited him. He didn't know how he felt now.

She had put her hands back into the sleeves of her robe. She had retreated strongly back into Vulcan stoicism, she was very much disturbed by what she had just done. She needed to meditate over it. She knew that she had done the right thing, to protect Jonathon and ensure they received the supplies they needed for the ship.

As she looked at him, she could almost see the thoughts running through his head. 'It is illogical for him to be afraid of me. He knows I would never hurt him or anyone without absolute need. Yet his expression reflects his...concerns.' She retreated even farther. 'So be it. I am Vulcan. He acknowledges it when he is angry or upset, but still expects humanness from me. I thought we were past that.'

She turned around and sat down again. After a moment, Sato and Kowalski followed suit.

CONTINUED IN TRADITIONS, PART 9 Traditions, Part 9 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

Reed surreptitiously continued to look around for other possible security problems, Tucker smirked at Archer, then it changed it to a look of concern. Phlox finally went over to him.

He whispered, "Captain, you need to go back to T'Pol. It will look strange that you aren't attentive to her. She just fought for you and won."

Phlox asked, curiously, "Is it bothering you that she fought for you? That she won? Is it her strength? Is it that she said you were hers? What's troubling you?"

Archer looked at him, then back to T'Pol. He bent his head to stare at his hands, sighing, "I guess I reverted to my childhood, when all my father did was complain about Vulcans. How superior they thought they were. Physically, intelligence, knowledge, experience. How they stopped us from achieving warp drive..." He broke off.

Phlox, however, continued, "How they didn't give you warp drive technology. How they made you learn, design it yourselves, so you understood how it worked and integrated it into your own ships? How arrogant of them not to give you all the answers."

Phlox looked innocently at him, "How irresponsible of them, they wanted Earth to develop it for themselves and understand how it works before they ventured out into space." He gestured at the Harkarin, "The Andorians gave them warp technology, and now their 'fleet' is basically useless. They don't know how to maintain it or build new warp capable ships. They have to negotiate to get help from others planets."

With that he patted Archer on the shoulder and walked back to T'Pol. He glanced at her and then poured her a glass of water. He knew she was not pleased. Vulcans didn't like using violence. It went against their upbringing - 'I am Vulcan, bred to peace,' yet occasionally they still had to use violence. However, they used only the amount necessary in each situation - no more.

He knew she was also not pleased with Archer's reaction. Phlox mentally shook his head. One step forward, two steps back. He gestured at Tucker to serve Hoshi and Katy and present them the food.

Archer was disgusted with himself. He knew better. He really did. 'Damn it, T'Pol is my first officer and my friend. I just kissed her for God's sake and I liked it. A lot.'

Sighing, 'My ego got the best of me. Damn. We had even discussed this very situation.'

Hoshi had been quietly watching T'Pol. "Are you alight?"

Looking at her plate, "I am fine." She put down her unused silverware. "When we get to the guest quarters, please arrange for the sleeping needs of the others." She looked over at Hoshi, who nodded in acknowledgement, then up to Phlox. "Doctor, I would appreciate it if you would accompany me when I go to see Her Majesty."

Phlox leaned down, "Shouldn't the Favorite go with you? Won't it seem unusual?" He ran the scanner over her. He quickly reviewed the results, but at her arched eyebrow, he put it away. It wouldn't affect anything and now was not the time.

Nodding, "Of course, I will go with you." Pointing his head at Archer who had just come to an internal decision and was walking back over, "But what will you say about...Jonathon?"

"Say what about me?"

T'Pol answered evenly, unemotionally, "That you are indisposed and are not able to accompany me to visit the Monarch this evening."

Stung with the words, he rocked back. Tucker, who had been watching and guessed what had happened, touched him on the arm and motioned for him to back away.

"Jon, you know that I don't normally stick up for T'Pol, and you're my friend, but you were wrong and right now you need to back off. She's giving off so many Vulcan vibes right now, I'm expectin' my ears to sprout points."

He nodded sadly and went back to the table. He let Phlox and Tucker serve T'Pol and generally stayed out of the way. After 2, very long, hours the banquet was over.

A Major-Domo came over to escort them to the guest quarters. The quarters were opulent, with 4 separate bedrooms and bathing areas. The main area was larger than the Enterprise's Mess Hall. It had several couches that would sleep another 8 people.

T'Pol glanced over at Hoshi about the sleeping arrangements, then over at Phlox, who nodded in agreement. T'Pol chose a room at random and went in.

Archer went over to Phlox, "Doctor, what was that about?"

"She's going in to meditate, of course. Whenever she is required to use violence, she meditates as soon as she can afterward. It is displeasing for a Vulcan to use violence." Looking at him curiously, "You did know that, didn't you?"

Sighing, "Yeah, I did. I was just hoping to talk with her."

Tilting his head, "You could go in. I don't think she's entered into a meditative state yet."

Jonathon knew he had to go talk to her. Apologize. They needed to work this out. It also didn't help that they were ignoring something personal. Nodding, he went over to the door of the room she entered. He knocked, but didn't hear anything. He slowly went in and closed the door.

With his departure, the rest of the room sighed in relief. The tension was getting to all of them.

Hoshi spoke up, "This is so strange. Its almost like having my parents fighting. They've been getting along so well for the last couple of months."

Katy and Reed nodded in agreement.

Tucker added, "Yeah, its strange. But, heck, everything has been strange on this mission. Thank god its almost over."

Phlox just stared at the door. Either Archer would come out almost immediately or they would talk.

Jonathon walked into a darkened room and stopped. He looked around, his eyes slowly accommodating to the darkness. He finally found T'Pol. She was laying on the bed looking up at something. He knew that she was aware of him.

Finally, "Yes, Captain?"

'Damn.' He slowly walked over to the bed, looking up when he got there to see what she did. It was the stars and they were beautiful. The night and the stars dressed the room in the dark blues and black of the night. It caressed her, covering her in shadows. The ceiling over the bed opened up into the night sky, the stars were brilliant and riveting. He wanted to lay there with her and watch them too.

He looked at her. She was fully dressed, except the robe, which had been carefully placed over a chair next to the bed.

"May I?" He gestured to the bed.

A moment of silence passed, and still not looking at him, "Yes."

He laid down carefully next to her, eventually relaxing as the stars comforted him.

After 10 minutes, he asked, "Do you see the Enterprise?"

Unemotionally, "It should be passing overhead in approximately 3 minutes."

Archer sighed, "T'Pol, I'm sorry. I don't know what to say to explain how I reacted." He moved his left hand in a helpless jerk. He whispered, "I feel terrible. I've let you down and me."

Her right hand rose and pointed, "There is the ship." He quickly looked where she pointed and together they followed its path through the night sky.

After another few minutes of silence, though it was more of a comfortable silence, "Captain -"

She stopped as he rolled over on his side to look at her, "Please call me Jonathon." Then with a small grin, "After all, we are in bed together."

An eyebrow quirked up, "Technically, we are on a bed together." His grin got bigger.

"Jonathon, I accept your apology." He cautiously took her hand in his. They looked at each other. Then he released her hand and put his out in the Vulcan gesture of mates. She studied him, searchingly, intently, then slowly put her fingers on his.

Again, he felt that strange warmth. It made him feel good. He looked at her curiously and slowly leaned down. She watched him and knew his intent.

He gently kissed her and when she didn't protest, he very slowly intensified the kiss, gently pulling her into his arms. At least with T'Pol, he was absolutely sure she wouldn't do anything just because he was making her - she could toss him across the room or give him that neck pinch.

Outside in the living area, everyone was sitting down and was relaxing. Phlox was leaning against a bar facility. They kept sneaking looks at the door, wondering what was going on in there.

Finally, Phlox said, "Someone needs to go in there. They'll be back shortly to get us to see the Monarch."

They exchanged looks of 'not me.' Tucker finally went over to stand in front of the door. He couldn't bring himself to go in just yet, so he just stood there. Sort of like a guard. Reed watched and then walked over.

"Commander, is there a reason you're standing here?" Tucker took a deep breath and looked awkwardly around.

Reed's eyes shot open, then quickly lowered, and equally awkwardly, "Right then, we'll just stand here."

The single kiss turned into two, then three. He slowly pulled up. They stared deeply, with a contained passion and awe, at each other. Archer realized that he was laying almost completely on top of T'Pol.

He marveled that this felt so natural. Why? Why was this so easy? He could have sworn he hated Vulcans.

T'Pol was almost overcome with emotions - hers and his. She knew she had to tell him, before anything else.

She slowly reached her hand to his face - his emotions, flowed through her, she was floating in them. She controlled, barely. Her hand gently touched his face, moving over the planes of his cheek, to his mouth. Tracing his lips. He kissed her fingers.

"Jonathon," she barely whispered it out. The emotions were staggering. She took a breath, "There is something I must tell you."

He started nuzzling her neck. Again, she had to control. She needed to tell him about Vulcans.

"What?" He whispered back, doing a very good job of distracting her.

She breathed at him, "Jonathon, stop. I need to tell you something very important."

"What?" He pulled back to look at her.

She asked the spirits of Vulcan that he would understand and not be frightened.

She looked down at his chest, then back up to his eyes, "Jonathon, do you remember when I said that Vulcans do not like to be touched?"

He nodded, she was so beautiful. So intelligent. So brave. She breathed in at his emotions. She couldn't block it out, they had almost full body contact.

"Did you ever wonder why?" Again, she traced his jaw, with both her eyes and finger. She slowly withdrew her finger and her eyes went to his. He shook his head.

"Jonathon, Vulcans do not touch others, other than their mates because..." She was truly concerned about his reaction.

She started again, "We have worked together, closely, for almost two standard years. We have slowly built a relationship where we have begun to trust each other. Not always successfully, but we have tried to work through issues and go forward. I have trusted you as I would not necessarily trust another Vulcan."

Concerned, he frowned, but he didn't move away. "T'Pol, what are you trying to prepare me for?" He searched her face, "I promise to try to be more accepting of you than I was today."

Steeling herself, "Vulcans are touch telepaths." She laid her hands on her chest, giving him the chance to pull away.

'Holy sh**!" Was his initial response. Vulcans are touch telepaths and here he was practically laying on top of one.

Then he stopped. What was he thinking - this was T'Pol. He trusted her with his ship, his crew, his life. Sure, it had taken awhile, but he did. He wouldn't be laying where he was, if he didn't.

"Tell me." She understood his question. How could she not?

"I shield everyday. Whenever someone touches me - whenever you touch me, I enhance the shields to make them stronger, so as to not infringe upon your thoughts and feelings." Looking away, always truthful, "Of course, it takes me a short while to increase my shield strengths when you initially touch me. I am sorry that I could not prevent my knowing some of your feelings."

He looked at her, smiling softly, he wasn't frightened, "No, I am sorry to inflict those upon you. We had always heard rumors Vulcans were telepaths." Grinning, "But then we also thought you didn't want to touch others because you were too good to touch lower beings."

Looking at them, "I guess that's wrong." Touching her jaw and drawing his hand slowly her down her neck to her shoulder, "This doesn't bother you."

Shaking her head, "No, I am not shielding myself from you, I am accepting your emotions, your feelings, your touch. What do you feel?"

He looked surprised, then looked inward. What was he feeling? He relaxed trying to see if he felt anything, then, a flicker of the power and warmth he felt earlier that evening. He examined it and realized it was T'Pol. He felt her - her feelings - her thoughts. He saw that she was not unlike what she actually said to him. That she was truthful in what she said to him. He saw how she felt about him - how she felt about him kissing her.

So he kissed her again.

Outside the room, the others were getting twitchy. Phlox was loving it, he had never seen anything like it before.

Reed and Tucker were still standing uneasily outside the door. Phlox asked, "Commander Tucker, are you upset by what may be happening inside that room?"

Glaring at Phlox, then shrugging, "I...I don't know." Throwing his hands in the air, "Its T'Pol, its the Captain, she's a Vulcan, he's not..." Shaking his head.

Hoshi cut in, "Well, 'its' been there awhile. I've noticed it on the bridge."

Reed nodded, "So have I."

"Does a possible relationship bother any of you?" Phlox asked curiously.

They all shrugged. Kowalski answered, "I'm not sure. We all know T'Pol. How she is, what she is. She's tough, she's intelligent, she's a Vulcan." She shrugged, "I may not love or even like her sometimes, but she's the First Officer and she's right a lot of the time."

"Yeah, Doc, it took me longer to admit that. I've fought with T'Pol since the day she got here. Enjoyed it, even." He jerked his thumb towards the door, "Jon has, too. But she's tough, she's good. She's the one who makes me think twice about Vulcans. T'Lar did, too." He frowned. "I hate that."

Inside the room, "Jonathon, please, we need to stop," she breathed. She ran her fingers through his hair. She enjoyed touching him. He was so cool, so refreshing. "We must talk about this. I cannot have a casual relationship."

He frowned at her, "T'Pol, I don't want a casual relationship either. We've been dancing around this attraction for months. We've gone through a lot together." Looking at her, tracing her eyebrow, "I agree that we have to take this slow. But I want to try, don't you?" He questioned, suddenly concerned.

He could have sworn she smiled, "Jonathon, I also want to try. But it cannot affect how we work together."

She took a chance and tilted her head up to him and gently kissed him, "I will continue to tell you when I disagree with your decisions and/or actions. I am what I am. Can you work with Sub-Commander T'Pol of Vulcan and have a relationship with T'Pol?"

He thought about that. That was the question. Can he have a personal relationship with a Vulcan? His subordinate and his second in command - Sub-Commander and T'Pol, both of Vulcan. Can they keep their working relationship?

She saw the emotions cross his face. She was shielding again, it wouldn't be appropriate to use his emotions. He had to make the decision, fully integrated in both mind and body.

She was also concerned, about a relationship with a human. They changed relationships so frequently. She had seen it on the Enterprise. She could not do that. Vulcan relationships are for life, and the Vulcan life span was over 200-years, earth time.

"Jonathon, Vulcans mate for life. We cannot have a relationship and then go our separate ways."

"Rumors say that Vulcans live for centuries."

"It is true. Perhaps two human centuries."

"You live for two hundred years?"

She nodded, "Approximately."

"Tell me about Vulcan relationships." It was almost a command. He moved so that he was laying on his side, leaning against her.

"Vulcan mates are normally chosen in the first 10-years of life. You know about my previous relationship."

He agreed, but he wasn't sure about all the details.

"When Vulcans initially select a bond mate, it is a mating of the mind. A bond is formed between the mates. Eventually, the mating includes the body. At that time, the bond mates can communicate without talking and know how each other is feeling. Mates can shelter the bond, limit the linkage to enable each other to not always be constantly aware of the other. They can open and close the bond as needed. Vulcans mate for life."

Jon was suddenly concerned, "T'Pol, I won't live for two hundred years. What happens to a Vulcan whose mate dies?"

He could tell she suddenly slammed all the doors shut, not just shielding. "Some Vulcans die, some go into an irreversible coma, however, most recover with the help of family and friends."

Family. Oh, oh. He looked at her, he needed to know this answer, how she answered it, "Children?"

Her eyes dropped to the IDIC on his chest. "I am a copper based life form, you are iron. While physically we are compatible, our physiology is different. It is almost a 100% probability that we could not procreate without medical assistance. Vulcan currently does not have that knowledge, though they are working on genetics. That needs to be considered."

Jonathon froze. He's always assumed he would have them someday.

T'Pol considered her statement, she had always assumed she would have the option of children. To Vulcans, children were gifts. With Jonathon, she probably could not have children.

He'd enjoyed touching her, he traced a pointed ear. "We need to move slowly, to understand what this really means. To you, to me, to possible children."

To him it was a stunning turn of events. Just last week they were treading carefully around this attraction, but now he was laying on bed with her, talking about relationships, children, death, and working together. 'I guess when you consider a relationship with a Vulcan, you have to take it seriously.'

But still, even with this very serious conversation, he whispered, "T'Pol, whatever happens between us, and there is something between us, I want to try."

She agreed. "It will be difficult at times. I will not agree with you when I think you are wrong. You will still not like it, and you will continue to feel frustration. That will not change."

He nodded, smiling, "I have no doubts about that at all."

He picked up one of her hands and studied the tint of her skin.

She watched him, "We also need to discuss how this will impact on the crew."

Frowning, "You're right. We should keep this to ourselves until we decide what to do."

Nodding, "One more thing..." He raised his eyebrows when she stopped. Suddenly he found himself on his back, she was kneeling over him. Her hands pinning his above his head and with one leg between his. Somehow he could tell she was teasing him, even testing him a little, but it was very sexy and decided he liked it. He could live with her strength, if she could live with his need to protect her. She felt that and leaned down to kiss him.

The door burst open and in walked the Monarch. "Ah, I see the Favorite is feeling better."

Everyone else trailed in behind her and stood there with their mouths hanging open. Phlox was smiling in glee. 'This is a big step forward.'

T'Pol looked at him, no emotions on her face, but he felt a trace of irritation quickly extinguished. He smiled - he felt better knowing that she wasn't pleased either at being interrupted - and having everyone walk in. A thought fluttered into his mind, "Locks." He had to stifle a chuckle.

CONTINUED IN PART 10 Traditions, part 10 Author: Witezon@aol.com Pairing: A/T Rating: PG-13 Everything belongs to Paramount/UPN. Theme: Time period after the Christmas party and before mid-year

She carefully, and with Vulcan dignity, got off of him and the bed. She turned to the Monarch and bowed. "Your Majesty, I did not know that you were coming here. I am sorry that I was not prepared."

She waved away the apology. "T'Pol, please don't worry about it. I believe that you were pleasantly distracted." She smiled over at Jonathon, who had also gotten up and was standing behind T'Pol. "Pleasantly distracted." Jonathon had his eyes on T'Pol's shoulder, but he didn't feel threatened or belittled with the comments.

T'Pol nodded, "May we offer you some refreshments?"

Her Majesty smiled again, "Actually, I brought my own. They should be arriving right about now."

A knock sounded on the door, Reed went to open it, and there were hand carts loaded with food and drink. Everyone returned to the living area.

Her Majesty took a couch and nodded at T'Pol. "Your Majesty, may I present Hoshi Sato and Katherine Kowalski?" Hoshi and Katy bowed and returned her greetings.

"May I also present Jonathon Archer?" Her Majesty grinned, "Your Favorite."

T'Pol nodded. She then introduced, "This is Doctor Phlox." The Monarch interjected again, "A Denoblian - that's very interesting. If what I understand is correct, Denoblians have multiple partners. Lots of females, males, and children. That's absolutely amazing. Opposite of that, Vulcans have single mate for a lifetime. Then a different side, Harkarins don't have mates - singly or in groups."

T'Pol started again, "This is Charles Tucker and that is Malcolm Reed."

"What are they?"

"They are humans from the planet Earth. Vulcan and Earth have trade and diplomatic agreements, though we are culturally different."

"Is that what Vulcan would do with us?" The Monarch asked that question, quite piercingly.

"I cannot answer for the Vulcan Diplomatic Corps or for our planetary leadership. If you are interested in pursuing this conversation, I will contact Vulcan and give them your words."

Archer was watching all of this and had forgotten to keep his eyes down.

The Monarch thought about that, "Your planetary leader, is it a female?"

"Yes, we have a new planetary leader. She is T'Pau."

The humans looked at each other, they hadn't realized Vulcan had a change in government.

"T'Pol, T'Pau. That's quite similar. Is there a pattern of naming on Vulcan?"

"There is a naming pattern on Vulcan." That's all she said on that subject.

The Monarch smiled, "Oh, there's that Vulcan reticence. Not wanting to contaminate another culture with their own."

She looked "T'Pol, please sit down. Everyone sit down. The males, too." Archer sat by T'Pol, and Phlox sat down where he was. Tucker and Reed went to sit by Hoshi and Katy, respectively.

They talked long into the night. Discussing everything from planetary politics, space exploration, to the Vulcan Academy of Science. The Monarch had no problems with asking Archer or Phlox their opinions or having all of the males look at her.

Finally, The Monarch was getting ready to leave. "Tell me, T'Pol, who these men are in your world. I know that Vulcans don't follow the customs of Harkarin society, though you do follow our customs when you are here. Vulcan males are equal to Vulcan females. Are these human males equal also?"

Everyone quickly looked at T'Pol. "Yes."

The Monarch almost stamped her foot. "Anything else? Vulcans - do they ever really answer anything?"

The humans thought, 'No.'

She got a sly look on her face, "So, then, T'Pol of Vulcan, even though we caught you in a promising situation with him (pointing at Archer), is he really your Favorite?"

Yep, everyone wanted to hear the answer to that one, too.

Calmly, "Yes." That was it. Nothing else. Everyone was disappointed - except Jonathon. He just smiled.

The Monarch laughed. "Vulcans." With that, she bid everyone a good night and swept out of the room.

Tucker broke the silence, "Well, this has been one hell of an away mission. Done things and seen things I don't ever want to again. I'm tired and I want to go to sleep. How long until morning?"

T'Pol calculated the time, "3.5 hours. Supplies should be available in 5 hours, and we should be able to return to the ship at that time."

Trip turned to Hoshi, "Where did you want everyone to sleep?"

"Well, I thought Katy and I would share one room, you and Malcolm in another. T'Pol gets a room to herself, and that leaves one room for the Captain and the Doctor." She suddenly looked a little nervous, "Anyone can change if they want."

Jonathon suddenly felt of wave of tiredness go through him. He looked up at T'Pol, he found she had dropped her shoulders and looked like meditation or sleep would do her good. She almost instantly noticed his perusal and straightened. The wave was gone.

Phlox walked over to him and quietly said, "I would suggest that everyone get some sleep. I don't mind having my own room. You probably wouldn't either." The last said very innocently.

Too innocently, Archer glared at him. Everyone milled around, waiting to see what would happen.

Since it appeared that T'Pol wasn't going to take charge right now, "Hoshi, Katy, good night. Choose a room and get some sleep."

They quickly took the first room on the left. Directly opposite of the one T'Pol had originally chosen.

Phlox chose the room next to T'Pol's. He bid everyone a pleasant evening and went into the room.

T'Pol also said good night and went back into her room. That left Archer, Tucker and Reed. They quietly fidgeted, then Reed got the idea and went into the last empty room.

Archer looked at Tucker, finally, "Alright Trip, was is it?"

Looking extremely uncomfortable, "Jon, you're my friend. Are you sure you know what the hell you're doing? Does she?" Slumping down on the couch and rubbing his face, "From what I can tell, Vulcans don't take these things lightly. She's also your Science Officer - what will Starfleet and the Vulcan High Command think?" Putting his hands on his knees, he said quietly, "What will the crew think?"

As Jon listened to him, he sank back down on the couch he had shared with T'Pol. "What do you think?"

Rolling his eyes, "I think you're both certifiable." Taking a deep breath, "But we've all noticed that there's been somethin' between you two for the last couple of months. Heck, you didn't even notice that woman from the last planet flirtin' with you."

Jon raised an eyebrow and grinned, "Oh, I noticed alright. I just didn't want to do anything about it."

Throwing his hand in the air, "See! What's with that? Six months ago you would've done something."

Leaning back with his head against the back of the couch, "I just didn't want to, I was flattered, but not interested."

"Cos' you're interested in T'Pol?"

Nodding, "Yeah." Looking down, "You know, it won't be easy for either one of us." He looked up at Trip, "Ever try to figure someone out who doesn't show emotions and, at times, aggravates you with every second word?"

"No. But then, maybe I don't want that much of a challenge. I guess you do?"

A small smile, "Yeah, I guess I do."

Seriously, "Does she?" Shaking his head, "Cause if she doesn't, you could get some broken bones out of this."

Archer frowned at him, "Yes, I think she does, too. One thing you can say for Vulcans, or at least T'Pol, I can trust what she tells me."

"Then how do you explain Hoshi and Katy? And you for that matter, Favorite?"

"She already did." He said nothing else, just got a smile on his face.

Trip grinned, "Shoot, Jon, I really think you guys are goin' try this."

Archer grinned, too, "Yeah, I think we are." He rubbed a hand across his eyes, "I'm tired. I need some sleep."

"Where ya' goin' to sleep?"

Archer stood up and walked into T'Pol's room with more confidence than he felt. He closed the door. She sat up in bed, "I was wondering if you were coming in or not."

He stopped. "Do you want me to leave?"

She considered that, "No, I do not. But until we decide what we are going to do, I cannot...have sex with you."

He paused, "Have sex? T'Pol, when and if we have sex, we will make love."

"Jonathon, of that I have no doubt."

He did a double-take and chuckled.

She pulled back the covers on the other side of the bed, "There are clothes to change into in the bathroom."

He grinned and did as he was told. It was very strange, but they weren't uncomfortable with each other. It was as if they always did this. They slept on their sides, with him curled around her, peacefully, until they were awakened with a gentle knock on the door. No one came in this time.

They slowly sat up. "Good Morning." She reached out to touch his face, "Good Morning."

Grinning, indicating the bathroom, "Who wants to go first?"

"If you do not mind, I would like to meditate. You can go first."

He nodded and leaned over to kiss her, then got up and went into the bathroom. She got up and went over to meditate in front of one of windows. He found her there 15 minutes later.

He didn't know whether to interrupt her or just leave her to her meditations.

She didn't open her eyes, but said "Jonathon, you may interrupt me."

Surprised showed on his face, "How did you know what I was thinking?"

She opened her eyes, "I was not in a deep meditation, but a light one. I found your presence and was 'feeling' it. Your thoughts were on the surface and I was able to pick them up. I hope you do not mind."

Smiling again, "No, I don't mind you feeling my presence. I hope to 'feel' your presence soon myself."

She got up and walked over to him. "We should probably not do this when we are on the ship."

"Well, at least in public, but in your quarters or mine, then..." He pulled her to him, kissing her deeply. She returned it, just as enthusiastically. He felt that warmth again and knew it was T'Pol.

They parted at another knock, then Trip yelled, "We're having breakfast out here." Jon called back, while smiling at T'Pol. "Okay, we'll be right out."

"Go, " she pushed him towards the door. "I will be out shortly."

"I'll save you something non-animal."

Nodding, she disappeared into the bathroom. Smiling, he shook his head and went out to get breakfast.

When he walked in, everyone looked at him, then away. He slowed his walk and studied them. Sighing to himself, he walked over and got a cup of a coffee-like drink and some toasted bread. He found tea and fruit for T'Pol. He brought them both back to the table.

As he was sitting down, no one would meet his gaze except Phlox. He smiled broadly at Archer. Archer nodded and smiled awkwardly back.

As he made a decision, he hoped T'Pol wouldn't be angry. He thought he felt her give a negative. He went still as he felt her, then smiled to himself. 'This was going to be very interesting.'

He looked at his crew around the table. "Alright, it seems you aren't comfortable looking at me this morning. Would this have anything to do with T'Pol and myself?"

Again, everyone looked at him and away. "Okay, since no seems to want to say anything, I guess I will."

"T'Pol and I are exploring a relationship." They all looked at him and gaped, well, except for Phlox.

"We have to take into consideration the command relationship and also the Vulcan tradition."

They looked interested at that.

"Cap'n, I realize that you don't have to tell us these things, and we appreciate that you are, but what Vulcan tradition?" Trip asked.

Smirking, "Well, as you may or may not have noticed, Vulcans take everything very seriously and Vulcan relationships have traditions that need to be considered."

Trip snorted, "Nah, we've never noticed that."

Sato spoke up, "Sir, we're not judging you, really, and we've all seen how the Sub-Commander is trying to understand us, and..." she trailed off.

He looked at her, encouragingly, "Go on. Ask, I'll probably not answer any questions after this. I'm pretty sure T'Pol won't."

They all smiled at that. They could see themselves asking T'Pol these questions.

Hoshi smiled, "Captain, it may be easier with a Vulcan."

At his surprise, she continued, "Well, T'Pol won't let you smother her. She's stronger than we are, she's the second in command, and she's the Science Officer. You can't treat like any other human woman."

Reed spoke up, always considering security, "Yes, but Sir, what about away teams? You usually go, sometimes you send T'Pol first, can you continue to do that? Sometimes its dangerous." Phlox noticed that T'Pol had entered the room, but paused as she waited for his answer.

"Captain, would you want to stop T'Pol from doing her job?"

Archer thought about, "Caring about someone doesn't mean smothering them or preventing them from doing their job just because you're concerned about their safety. Especially with T'Pol."

Taking a drink of the coffee, "She's my second in command. She has her job, I have mine. Hers is to support me and the ship, point out different options, and tell me when she thinks I'm wrong." Smirking, "And we know she'll do that."

That they laughed at. Phlox said, "Sub-Commander, will you join us?"

Everyone turned and looked at her, she nodded and walked over to sit beside Archer.

"Good Morning." Everyone was suddenly subdued again.

She looked around, then at Jonathon. "You were discussing the Captain and myself? You have questions and concerns?"

They looked uncomfortable. Phlox, "Yes, the captain was explaining some things. I wish you both well."

She nodded. Archer touched her knee with his. He could feel her discomfort with this subject. She stirred her tea and took a sip. "We have agreed to explore a relationship. I would expect that it will be a hybrid of both Vulcan and Human traditions."

"However, " an eyebrow rose, "He is the Captain, and I am the Science Officer. There is no obscurity in those areas. He will do his job, I will do mine. We will continue to have disagreements, that is expected." She stopped and took another sip.

Jonathon just grinned, she had broken away from Vulcan privacy to talk about their relationship, to help the crew understand it.

He could still feel her discomfort through the touch on her knee. She sent him a wave of calm, telling him she was alright.

"Right. T'Pol, what can we expect today?"

And with that comment they started and completed their day on Harkarin.

CONTINUED IN PART 11